bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PAPER INK INTERACTIONS. The effect of coating pore structure and geometry on the drying efficiency of heatset web-offset ink solvent
Authors: Gerstner Philip M. , Zhang Hai , Gane Patrick A.C.
Published: October 2012

This work examines the effect of coating pore structure on the evaporation behaviour of mineral oil, as a typical heatset web-offset ink solvent. Two different kinds of coating pigments are compared, a standard ground calcium carbonate (GCC) and a highly porous modified calcium carbonate (MCC) with fine intraparticle pores. The aim is to identify relevant pore structure parameters and their effect on the drying rate. Two internal stages of drying were identified for both structures : a rising drying rate period and a falling rate period. In the rising rate period, the effect of film tlow was of particular relevance for the case of GCC based structures : binder, filling the pore structure decreases the detail of geometry and thus reduces the film flow tendency, progressively depressing the drying rate. At the onset of the falling rate period the liquid phase is in the form of disconnected liquid clusters. Therefore, the diffusion resistance becomes a dominant factor. Because of the high permeability of MCC systems the evaporation rate proofed to be largely unsusceptible to the binder concentration. However, the GCC pigment systems exhibited an extended peak of the drying rate as a result of the increasing diffusion resistance with increasing binder content.
Immediate Impact of Percutaneous Transvenous Mitral Valve Commissurotomy (PTMC) on Right Ventricular Function
Authors: Kundu SK , Majumder AAS , Halder D , Chakrovortty SK , Khan MR , Dutta B , Karmoker KK , Ahmed M
Published: October 2012

Background: The aim of this study was to evaluate the immediate impact of Percutaneous Transvenous Mitral Commissurotomy (PTMC) on RV function in patients with mitral stenosis (MS).Methods: This study was conducted in the National Institute Cardiovascular Diseases, Dhaka for a period of one year starting from October 2008 to September 2009. A total of 50 consecutive patients (Case group) with mitral stenosis were selected after considering inclusion and exclusion criteria that subsequently undergone PTMC. The control group (n=50) consisted of age and sex matched healthy individual (having no ECG or echocardiographic evidence of structural or functional cardiovascular disease). Healthy control group was taken because there was no data about RV function in our population. Control group used to compare with baseline characteristics of case group.Results: Immediately after PTMC (24 to 48 hours) mitral valve area increased from 0.8± 0.1 to 2.0 ± 0.2 (p <0.001) and RV outflow tract fractional shortening (RVOTfs % ) increased from 54.9 ± 4.6 to 74.9 ± 4.8% (p <0.001). There was a significant decrease in systolic pulmonary artery pressure from 47.7 ± 7.9mmHg to 28.2 ± 5.9 mmHg (p <0.001), in the RV Tei index from 0.5 ± 0.1 to 0.3 ± 0.1 (p <0.001 ), in myocardial acceleration during isovolumic contraction (IVA) at the lateral tricuspid annulus from 0.4 ± 0.1 m/s² to 0.3 ± 0.0 m/s² (p <0.001). The RVEF (%) did not exhibit any significant change from pre-PTMC figure (p = 0.538).Conclusion: After successful PTMC the parameters of infundibular and global RV function as assessed by RVOTfs and Tei index showed significant improvement and significant decrease in RV contractility as assessed by IVA was observed. Further work using larger numbers of patients is needed to confirm our findings and to assess their utility in patient follow-up and management. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/cardio.v5i1.12205 Cardiovasc. j. 2012; 5(1): 3-11
Serum Uric Acid and Its Association with Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Akanda MAK , Choudhury KN , Ali MZ , Naher S , Islam ASME , Ali MI
Published: October 2012

Background: Few studies have assessed the relation of uric acid level with the severity of coronary  artery disease (CAD). This study investigated the association between high uric acid levels with the  presence and severity of CAD.Materials and Methods: This study was designed as an observational cohort study. The study was  composed of 180 patients admitted at our institution due to symptoms related to CAD. Patients  having angiographic evidence of stenosis in coronary artery were as case group and without stenosis  control group. Patients with high uric acid (hyperuricemia) were defined as serum uric acid  concentration ?7.0mg/dl or ?420 ?mol/L in men and ?6mg/dl or ?360 ? mol/L in women. The  presence of CAD has been defined as the Gensini score being ?1.  Results: There was a statistically significant difference between the mean uric acid levels of patients  with and without CAD (358.23±71.11 ?mol/l vs251.32±54.92 ?mol/l respectively, p<0.001). There  was a statistically significant difference between ejection fraction of patients with and without CAD  (54.50±9.25 vs. 63.16±6.56 respectively, p?0.001). Spearman correlation analysis demonstrated a  positive correlation between the serum uric acid level and the severity of CAD (p=?0.001, r=0.39).  When patients were classified into four groups according to their Gensini score, mean serum uric  acid level was found to be significantly increased across the tertiles, and a statistically significant  difference was detected between the tertiles (p= ?0.001).  Conclusion: In conclusion, a significant association has been found between serum uric acid level  and the presence and severity of CAD. In addition to the evaluation of conventional risk factors in  daily clinical practice, the measurement of uric acid level might provide significant prognostic  benefits in terms of global cardiovascular risk and management of the patients. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/cardio.v5i1.12206 Cardiovasc. j. 2012; 5(1): 12-17
Assessment of Acute Kidney Injury in Patients Undergoing Elective Coronary Angiography and Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Authors: Alam ABMM , Moniruzzaman M , Alam MB , Islam N , Khatoon F , Jahan N , Ali Z , Chowdhury NU
Published: October 2012

Background: CIN has gained increased attention in the clinical setting, particularly during cardiac intervention but also in many other radiological procedures in which iodinated contrast media are used. There is at present good clinical evidence from well-controlled randomized studies that CIN is a common cause of acute renal dysfunction.Methodology: This was a prospective study conducted among the patients who underwent coronary angiography and percutaneous coronary intervention in the Department of Cardiology, Dhaka Medical College Hospital during January 2010 to December 2010. A total of 111 patients age range from 25 to 75 years were included in the study. Serum creatinine level at baseline and at the end of 48 hours was done in all these patients. Study population was divided into two groups according to development of acute kidney injury (AKI). Group-I = AKI, Group II = Not developed AKI. Results: AKI developed 11.7% of the study patient. DM and Preexisting renal insufficiency were significantly higher in group I patients. HTN was (61.5% Vs 44.9%) higher in group I but not significantly. History of ACE inhibitor/ARB, NSAID intake and LVEF <40% were significantly higher in group I patients. The mean±SD volume of CM (Contrast Media) were 156.9±44.8 ml and 115.4±30.0 ml in group I and group II respectively, which was significant. The mean±SD of serum creatinine after 48-72 hours of CAG/PCI was 1.4±0.37 mg/dl and 1.1±0.2 mg/dl in group I and group II respectively. The serum creatinine level increased significantly (p<0.05) after 48-72 hours of CAG/PCI in group I. In group II, S. creatinine level increased but not significant (p>0.05). Impaired renal function was found 76.9% and 2.0% in group I and group II respectively. DM, HTN, preexisting renal insufficiency, ACE inhibitor/ARB, NSAIDs, contrast volume (>150 ml), eGFR (<60 ml/min/ 1.73m2) and LVEF (<40%) are significantly (p0.05) associated for CIN development.Conclusion: CIN is an iatrogenic but preventable disorder results from the administration of contract media. Although rare in the general population, CIN occurs frequently in patients with underlying renal dysfunction and diabetes. In patients with pre angiographic normal renal function, the prevalence is low but in pre-existing renal impairment it may pose a serious threat. Thus risk factors are synergistic in their ability to predispose to the development of CIN. A careful risk-benefit analysis must always be performed prior to the administration of contrast media to patients at risk for CIN. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/cardio.v5i1.12227 Cardiovasc. j. 2012; 5(1): 37-43
Evaluation of Efficacy and Tolerability of Perindopril 8 mg in Bangladeshi Hypertensive Patients: Results from an Open-label, Observational, Multi-center Study (CONTROL)
Authors: Islam MN , Majumder AAS , Mahmud RS , Sadequzzaman M , Bashar MA , Ali MR , Akanda MAK , Siddiqui FM , Islam KQ , Reza AQM , Ali MA , Choudhury AK , Rahman MM , Khan RC , Ghose TC , Ahmed J , Basak SK , Azam S , Pasha K , Khan TF
Published: October 2012

Background: The CONTROL (COversyl in Newly diagnosed stage-II & unconTROlled hypertensivepatients triaL) was performed with an objective to evaluate the blood pressure (BP) lowering efficacyand tolerability of Perindopril 8mg in newly diagnosed stage II patients and uncontrolledhypertensive patients among Bangladeshi population.Methods: This was an open-label, observational, multi-center study conducted in consultationcenters for out-patients located in different cities of Bangladesh. Adults, aged above 18 years withnewly diagnosed stage-II hypertension or uncontrolled hypertension, were recruited. Patients weretreated with Perindopril 4mg daily for first 1 week, afterwards uptitrated to Perindopril 8 mg dailyand continued treatment for 12 weeks. Patients were followed-up at week-1, week-4, week-8 andweek-12.Results: In total, 245 patients were enrolled. Among them, 88 were newly diagnosed stage-II (Group-I) and 157 were uncontrolled (Group-II) hypertensive patients. Male and female distribution was57% and 43% respectively. Mean age of patients was 54.5 ±11.7 years.After 12 weeks treatment, there was a significant reduction in BP from baseline (p<0.001) in overallpopulation as well as in Group I and in Group II. In overall population, the mean BP reduction was-31/-15 mmHg (from 163.7/96.8 mmHg to 132.4/81.7 mmHg. In Group I, the reduction was -33/-16mmHg (from 166.5/98.2 mmHg to 133.4/82.0 mmHg) and in Group II, -30/-14 mmHg (from 159.3/95.6 mmHg to 129.1/81.6 mmHg).10 patients (4.1%) had to discontinue the treatment due to adverse effects. Dry cough (2%) andhypotension (1.2%) were the main cause of discontinuation. Perindopril 8mg was well tolerated asindicated by the high proportion of physicians (81%) reporting good to excellent tolerability atweek 12.Conclusion: This study suggests that Perindopril 8mg is effective and safe in the treatment ofhypertension in Bangladeshi patients. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/cardio.v5i1.12272 Cardiovasc. j. 2012; 5(1): 44-50
Extent of ST-Segment Depression Predicts In- Hospital Outcome in Non ST-Segment Elevation Acute Coronary Syndrome
Authors: Khan MR , Haq MA , Majumder NK , Hossain MM , Rahman Z , Rahman MT , Akanda AK , Mohibullah AKM
Published: October 2012

Background: The presence of ischemic ECG changes on admission has been shown to predict outcome, the relationship between the extent of ECG changes and the risk of cardiac events is still ill   defined. The severity of ST-segment depression on admission ECG has a strong association with   adverse in-hospital outcome in patients with non ST-segment elevation acute coronary syndrome. The study was done to observe the extent of ST-segment depression and in-hospital outcome in patients with non ST-segment elevation acute coronary syndrome.   Methods: This study was conducted in the Department of Cardiology in NICVD Dhaka, from   January 2006 to December 2007. Considering inclusion and exclusion criteria, a total of 183 patients   were evaluated. All the patients were evaluated clinically after admission. ECG, blood biochemistry and echocardiography were done. Patients were categorized into three groups according to the extent   of ST- segment depression.   Results: In this study, analysis of the baseline parameters revealed no statistically significant   difference among the three groups of patients (p>0.05). Mean sum of the ST-segment depression analysis was done and all mean values were more in group III patients. 41.0% patients developed  complications during the study period. Acute LVF (22.9%) was the most common complication   followed by arrhythmia (11.5%), cardiogenic shock (4.4%) and STEMI (2.2%). All the complications were more in group III patients. During this period 6% patients died and more death (12.3%) was observed in group III patients.   Conclusion: The amount of ST-segment depression is a powerful predictor of adverse in-hospital   outcome in patients with non ST-segment elevation acute coronary syndrome DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/cardio.v5i1.12275 Cardiovasc. j. 2012; 5(1): 62-66
Renal Denervation Therapy in a Resistant Hypertensive Patient-Report of First Case in Bangladesh
Authors: Ali M , Momen A , Karmakar PK , Patwary MSR , Haque MA , Goni MN , Islam AKMM , Huda RM , Rahman A , Majumder AAS
Published: October 2012

Not available DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/cardio.v5i1.12282 Cardiovasc. j. 2012; 5(1): 112-119
Digital Impression
Authors: Begum Aleya , Ahmed Rubaba , Islam Md Saiful
Published: October 2012

The use of different impression materials is in vogue for last few years with a view of capturing more accurate dental impression, which in turn produces more accurate fitting restoration. For achieving this goal, one should have ample knowledge about the different physical and mechanical properties, as well as in different  techniques with the most recent advances. In this review, we highlighted the impression material and recent updates on Digital Dentistry with the benefits which can be gained from this system by both Clinician and Dentist. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/cdcj.v9i2.12321 City Dental College J. Volume-9, Number-2, July-2012
Exegesis of the ḥurūf al-muqaṭṭaʿa: Polyvalency in Sunnī Traditions of Qur'anic Interpretation
Authors: Nguyen Martin
Published: October 2012

This paper seeks to explore the wide range of interpretations resulting from the ḥurūf al-muqaṭṭaʿa or ‘the disconnected letters’ of the Qur'an. Typically considered a paradigmatic case of the mutashābih in the Qur'an, exegetes have expended much time and energy speculating over the meaning(s) of these enigmatic graphemes. From the earliest exegetes to the later tradition, a chorus of possibilities and theories are encountered. The traditions of interpretations themselves are a testament to the Qur'an's interpretive plurality throughout the centuries. This paper looks at the long tradition of broadly Sunnī Muslim interpretation in regards to the disconnected letters to uncover the historic expansiveness of Qur'anic hermeneutics. Linguistic, mystical and encyclopaedic approaches are especially highlighted for the sake of emphasising diversity. The paper concludes with an exploration of the ‘limits’ of interpretation as determined by the exegetes in response to the disconnected letters.
Qur'anic Inscriptions on the Coins of the ahl al-bayt from the Second to Fourth Century AH
Authors: Treadwell Luke
Published: October 2012

This paper asks why early Muslims selected certain Qur'anic passages for inclusion in the legends of their coins. Coinage provides a form of historical documentation which is well suited to the study of the public reception of Qur'anic material because most Islamic coins were dated (either relatively or absolutely) and their place of origin known. This preliminary study begins with the earliest Islamic coinage, concentrating on the epigraphic coinage produced by ʿAbd al-Malik b. Marwān's monetary reforms and the coinage of the ʿAlid pretenders to the caliphate in the ʿAbbāsid period. It discusses the anxieties expressed by some scholars about the exposure of Qur'anic text on coins to contact with persons in a state of ritual impurity. It examines the relationship of the cited texts to their Qur'anic background, proposing an inclusive reading which takes account of the textual, moral and political contexts in which these numismatic legends were used.
Human Intervention in Divine Speech: waqf Rules and the Redaction of the Qur'anic Text
Authors: Osman Amr
Published: October 2012

Muslims regard the Qur'an as divine speech; therefore, the scope of human intervention in shaping and interpreting it is often downplayed. One hitherto neglected aspect of the history of the Qur'an and the redaction of its text is the introduction of waqf categories which dictate where a Qur'an reciter must, should or cannot pause while reading the Qur'an and how this affects its meaning. This paper deals with the history of the introduction of these waqf categories: how and on what basis they were determined by Muslim scholars, and what these scholars sought to accomplish by introducing them. It also discusses how this subject is significant to the understanding of the Qur'an by demonstrating how pausing at certain points affects the meaning of the text.
Contextual Anomaly Detection in Text Data
Authors: Mahapatra Amogh , Srivastava Nisheeth , Srivastava Jaideep
Published: October 2012

We propose using side information to further inform anomaly detection algorithms of the semantic context of the text data they are analyzing, thereby considering both divergence from the statistical pattern seen in particular datasets and divergence seen from more general semantic expectations. Computational experiments show that our algorithm performs as expected on data that reflect real-world events with contextual ambiguity, while replicating conventional clustering on data that are either too specialized or generic to result in contextual information being actionable. These results suggest that our algorithm could potentially reduce false positive rates in existing anomaly detection systems.
Inhibitors of HIV-1 Reverse Transcriptase—Associated Ribonuclease H Activity
Authors: Ilina Tatiana , LaBarge Krystal , Sarafianos Stefan G. , Ishima Rieko , Parniak Michael A.
Published: October 2012

HIV-1 enzyme reverse transcriptase (RT) is a major target for antiviral drug development, with over half of current FDA-approved therapeutics against HIV infection targeting the DNA polymerase activity of this enzyme. HIV-1 RT is a multifunctional enzyme that has RNA and DNA dependent polymerase activity, along with ribonuclease H (RNase H) activity. The latter is responsible for degradation of the viral genomic RNA template during first strand DNA synthesis to allow completion of reverse transcription and the viral dsDNA. While the RNase H activity of RT has been shown to be essential for virus infectivity, all currently used drugs directed at RT inhibit the polymerase activity of the enzyme; none target RNase H. In the last decade, the increasing prevalence of HIV variants resistant to clinically used antiretrovirals has stimulated the search for inhibitors directed at stages of HIV replication different than those targeted by current drugs. HIV RNase H is one such novel target and, over the past few years, significant progress has been made in identifying and characterizing new RNase H inhibitor pharmacophores. In this review we focus mainly on the most potent low micromolar potency compounds, as these provide logical bases for further development. We also discuss why HIV RNase H has been a difficult target for antiretroviral drug development.
A Nonlinear Elastic Model for Triaxial Compressive Properties of Artificial Methane-Hydrate-Bearing Sediment Samples
Authors: Miyazaki Kuniyuki , Tenma Norio , Aoki Kazuo , Yamaguchi Tsutomu
Published: October 2012

A constitutive model for marine sediments containing natural gas hydrate is essential for the simulation of the geomechanical response to gas extraction from a gas-hydrate reservoir. In this study, the triaxial compressive properties of artificial methane-hydrate-bearing sediment samples reported in an earlier work were analyzed to examine the applicability of a nonlinear elastic constitutive model based on the Duncan-Chang model. The presented model considered the dependences of the mechanical properties on methane hydrate saturation and effective confining pressure. Some parameters were decided depending on the type of sand forming a specimen. The behaviors of lateral strain versus axial strain were also formulated as a function of effective confining pressure. The constitutive model presented in this study will provide a basis for an elastic analysis of the geomechanical behaviors of the gas-hydrate reservoir in the future study, although it is currently available to a limited extent.
Retrofitting Domestic Hot Water Heaters for Solar Water Heating Systems in Single-Family Houses in a Cold Climate: A Theoretical Analysis
Authors: Bernardo Luis R. , Davidsson Henrik , Karlsson Björn
Published: October 2012

One of the biggest obstacles to economic profitability of solar water heating systems is the investment cost. Retrofitting existing domestic hot water heaters when a new solar hot water system is installed can reduce both the installation and material costs. In this study, retrofitting existing water heaters for solar water heating systems in Swedish single-family houses was theoretically investigated using the TRNSYS software. Four simulation models using forced circulation flow with different system configurations and control strategies were simulated and analysed in the study. A comparison with a standard solar thermal system was also presented based on the annual solar fraction. The simulation results indicate that the retrofitting configuration achieving the highest annual performance consists of a system where the existing tank is used as storage for the solar heat and a smaller tank with a heater is added in series to make sure that the required outlet temperature can be met. An external heat exchanger is used between the collector circuit and the existing tank. For this retrofitted system an annual solar fraction of 50.5% was achieved. A conventional solar thermal system using a standard solar tank achieves a comparable performance for the same total storage volume, collector area and reference conditions.
Charcoal and Total Carbon in Soils from Foothills Shrublands to Subalpine Forests in the Colorado Front Range
Authors: Licata Christopher , Sanford Robert
Published: October 2012

Temperate conifer forests in the Colorado Front Range are fire-adapted ecosystems where wildland fires leave a legacy in the form of char and charcoal. Long-term soil charcoal C (CC) pools result from the combined effects of wildland fires, aboveground biomass characteristics and soil transfer mechanisms. We measured CC pools in surface soils (0–10 cm) at mid-slope positions on east facing aspects in five continuous foothills shrubland and conifer forest types. We found a significant statistical effect of vegetation type on CC pools along this ecological gradient, but not a linear pattern increasing with elevation gain. There is a weak bimodal pattern of CC gain with elevation between foothills shrublands (1.2 mg CC ha−1) and the lower montane, ponderosa pine (1.5 mg CC ha−1) and Douglas-fir (1.5 mg CC ha−1) forest types prior to a mid-elevation decline in upper montane lodgepole pine forests (1.2 mg CC ha−1) before increasing again in the spruce/subalpine fir forests (1.5 mg CC ha−1). We propose that CC forms and accumulates via unique ecological conditions such as fire regime. The range of soil CC amounts and ratios of CC to total SOC are comparable to but lower than other regional estimates.
Injury-Induced Accumulation of Glial Cell Line-Derived Neurotrophic Factor in the Rostral Part of the Injured Rat Spinal Cord
Authors: Hara Takuya , Fukumitsu Hidefumi , Soumiya Hitomi , Furukawa Yoshiko , Furukawa Shoei
Published: October 2012

The spinal cord of a 7-week-old female Wistar rat was hemi-transected at thoracic position 10 with a razor blade, and changes in glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) protein and mRNA expression levels in the spinal cord were examined. GDNF protein and mRNA expression levels were evaluated by enzyme immunoassay and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, respectively. Although GDNF is distributed in the healthy spinal cord from 150 to 400 pg/g tissue in a regionally dependent manner, hemi-transection (left side) of the spinal cord caused a rapid increase in GDNF content in the ipsilateral rostral but not in the caudal part of the spinal cord. On the other hand, injury-induced GDNF mRNA was distributed limitedly in both rostral and caudal stumps. These observations suggest the possibility that increased GDNF in the rostral part is responsible for the accumulation of GDNF that may be constitutively transported from the rostral to caudal side within the spinal cord. Although such local increase of endogenous GDNF protein may not be sufficient for nerve regeneration and locomotor improvement, it may play a physiological role in supporting spinal neurons including motoneurons.
Detection of Ricin Intoxication in Mice Using Serum Peptide Profiling by MALDI-TOF/MS
Authors: Zhao Siyan , Liu Wen-Sen , Wang Meng , Li Jiping , Sun Yucheng , Li Nan , Hou Feng , Wan Jia-Yu , Li Zhongyi , Qian Jun , Liu Linna
Published: October 2012

Ricin toxin has been regarded as one of the most potent poisons in the plant kingdom, and there is no effective therapeutic countermeasure or licensed vaccine against it. Consequently, early detection of ricin intoxication is necessary. In this study, we took mice as test subjects, and used the technique of Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF/MS) and ClinProt™ microparticle beads to set up an effective detection model with an accuracy of almost 100%. Eighty-two peaks in the mass range 1000–10,000 m/z were detected by ClinProTools software, and five different peaks with m/z of 4982.49, 1333.25, 1537.86, 4285.05 and 2738.88 had the greatest contribution to the accuracy and sensitivity of this model. They may therefore provide biomarkers for ricin intoxication.
The Role of Neurotrophins in Multiple Sclerosis—Pathological and Clinical Implications
Authors: Kalinowska-Lyszczarz Alicja , Losy Jacek
Published: October 2012

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory demyelinating and neurodegenerative disease of the central nervous system (CNS) with unknown etiology. It was recently suggested that autoimmunity, which had long been considered to be destructive in MS, might also play a protective role in the CNS of MS patients. Neurotrophins are polypeptides belonging to the neurotrophic factor family. While neurotrophins mediate cell survival and proliferation in the nervous system, they are also expressed within peripheral blood mononuclear cells fraction (PBMCs) of immunological system. In MS additional neurotrophic support from PBMCs might compensate relative neurotrophins deficiency in the damaged CNS tissue that needs to be repaired. Failure to produce the adequate neurotrophins concentrations might result in decreased protection of the CNS, consequently leading to increased atrophy, which is the main determinant of MS patients’ end-point disability. There are several lines of evidence, both from clinical research and animal models, suggesting that neurotrophins play a pivotal role in neuroprotective and neuroregenerative processes that are often defective in the course of MS. It seems that neuroprotective strategies might be used as potentially valuable add-on therapies, alongside traditional immunomodulatory treatment in multiple sclerosis.
Transmission of a Gammabaculovirus within Cohorts of Balsam Fir Sawfly (Neodiprion abietis) Larvae
Authors: Graves Roger , Quiring Dan T. , Lucarotti Christopher J.
Published: October 2012

Nucleopolyhedroviruses (NPV: Gammabaculovirus: Baculoviridae) of diprionid sawflies (Diprionidae: Hymenoptera) are highly host specific and only infect the midgut epithelium. While still alive, infected sawfly larvae excrete NPV-laden diarrhea that contaminates food sources. The diarrhea can then be consumed by conspecific larvae, resulting in rapid horizontal transmission of the virus. To better understand the efficacy of Gammabaculovirus-based biological control products, the horizontal spread of such a virus (NeabNPV) within cohorts of balsam fir sawfly (Neodiprion abietis) larvae was studied by introducing NeabNPV-treated larvae into single-cohort groups at densities similar to those observed during the increasing (field study) and peak (laboratory study) phases of an outbreak. In field studies (~200 N. abietis larvae/m2 of balsam fir (Abies balsamea) foliage), NeabNPV-induced mortality increased positively in a density-dependent manner, from 23% (in control groups) to 51% with the addition of one first-instar NeabNPV-treated larva, to 84% with 10 first–instar-treated larvae. Mortality was 60% and 63% when one or 10 NeabNPV-treated third-instar larva(e), respectively, were introduced into groups. Slightly higher levels of NeabNPV-induced mortality occurring when NeabNPV-treated larvae were introduced into first- rather than third-instar cohorts suggests that early instars are more susceptible to the virus. In the laboratory (~1330 N. abietis larvae/ m2 of foliage), NeabNPV-caused mortality increased from 20% in control groups to over 80% with the introduction of one, five or 10 NeabNPV-treated larvae into treatment groups of first-instar larvae.
Seasonal Flight, Optimal Timing and Efficacy of Selected Insecticides for Cabbage Maggot (Delia radicum L., Diptera: Anthomyiidae) Control
Authors: Bažok Renata , Ceranić-Sertić Mirna , Barčić Jasminka Igrc , Borošić Josip , Kozina Antonela , Kos Tomislav , Lemić Darija , Čačija Maja
Published: October 2012

In order to describe seasonal flight activity of the cabbage maggot Delia radicum (L.) adults in relation to Julian days (JD), degree-day accumulations (DDA) and precipitation, flight dynamics were followed weekly with the use of yellow sticky traps (YST). Climatic data were collected and DDA were calculated using the lower developmental threshold of 4.3 °C. The efficacy of four insecticides applied either as standard foliar treatment or through dipping the seedlings before transplanting was determined. Seasonal flight activity during the cultivation season of a mid-early variety of white cabbage was correlated with DDA and JD and was characterized by having two peaks. The first peak occurred between 119 ± 7.5 JD and 125.5 ± 8 JD when DDA was 471.35 ± 74.97 °C. The second occurred between 172.8 ± 6.1 JD and 179.3 ± 6.7 JD when DDA was 1,217.28 ± 96.12 °C. The DDA, cumulative capture of flies and JD are suitable for predicting the timing of insecticide application. Spraying with insecticides should be applied when the cumulative capture of flies reaches 100 flies/YST and when DDA reaches 400 °C. If only one parameter reaches the threshold, additional visual surveys should be employed to establish the level of infestation. Insecticides were able to ensure only partial control. In the future, alternative control tactics which employ seed treatments and nonpesticide measures should be investigated in Croatia.
Dynamic Characterization of Cercal Mechanosensory Hairs of Crickets
Authors: Book Joel M. , Asokanthan Samuel F.
Published: October 2012

Previous dynamic characterizations of the cercal mechanosensory hairs of crickets have generally been limited to the first resonant frequency and associated deflection shape. A more complete description of the mechanical dynamics of these structures could be obtained by an experimental modal analysis. This paper describes a method by which a full experimental modal analysis, giving natural frequency, mode shape, and modal damping ratio, of these sense organs can be performed. Results of this analysis, employing an unmeasured moving-air excitation and non-contact vibration measurement with an output-only identification method are presented. Two distinct types of behaviour were observed, one of which was a good match for the behaviour expected based on the literature, and one of which was quite different. These two behaviours had distinct patterns of modal parameters. The method described in this paper has been shown to be able to estimate the modal parameters, including natural frequency, modal damping ratio, and normalized mode shape, for the first mode of cercal mechanosensory hairs of crickets. The method could practically be extended to higher modes and a wide variety of other sound and vibration sense organs with the selection of appropriate excitation and specimen supports.
Group-based Motion Detection for Energy-Efficient Localisation
Authors: Jurdak Raja , Kusy Branislav , Cotillon Alban
Published: October 2012

Long-term outdoor localization remains challenging due to the high energy profiles of GPS modules. Duty cycling the GPS module combined with inertial sensors can improve energy consumption. However, inertial sensors that are kept active all the time can also drain mobile node batteries. This paper proposes duty cycling strategies for inertial sensors to maintain a target position accuracy and node lifetime. We present a method for duty cycling motion sensors according to features of movement events, and evaluate its energy and accuracy profile for an empirical data trace of cattle movement. We further introduce the concept of group-based duty cycling, where nodes that cluster together can share the burden of motion detection to reduce their duty cycles. Our evaluation shows that both variants of motion sensor duty cycling yield up to 78% improvement in overall node power consumption, and that the group-based method yields an additional 20% power reduction during periods of low mobility.
Controlling Morphological Parameters of Anodized Titania Nanotubes for Optimized Solar Energy Applications
Authors: Haring Andrew , Morris Amanda , Hu Michael
Published: October 2012

Anodized TiO2 nanotubes have received much attention for their use in solar energy applications including water oxidation cells and hybrid solar cells [dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) and bulk heterojuntion solar cells (BHJs)]. High surface area allows for increased dye-adsorption and photon absorption. Titania nanotubes grown by anodization of titanium in fluoride-containing electrolytes are aligned perpendicular to the substrate surface, reducing the electron diffusion path to the external circuit in solar cells. The nanotube morphology can be optimized for the various applications by adjusting the anodization parameters but the optimum crystallinity of the nanotube arrays remains to be realized. In addition to morphology and crystallinity, the method of device fabrication significantly affects photon and electron dynamics and its energy conversion efficiency. This paper provides the state-of-the-art knowledge to achieve experimental tailoring of morphological parameters including nanotube diameter, length, wall thickness, array surface smoothness, and annealing of nanotube arrays.
Monitoring Wood Degradation during Weathering by Cellulose Crystallinity
Authors: Lionetto Francesca , Del Sole Roberta , Cannoletta Donato , Vasapollo Giuseppe , Maffezzoli Alfonso
Published: October 2012

The degree of crystallinity of cellulose was used for assessing the degradation level of coated and uncoated samples of pine wood after weathering. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier Transform Infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy measured the changes in the surface crystallinity of cellulose resulting from weathering, both natural and artificial. Both techniques revealed an increase in the crystallinity index (CI) of cellulose when wood was subjected to weathering. An increase in the size of crystallites was also observed by XRD measurements. These results were related to the reduction of the amorphous fractions of wood, and, consequently, to the enrichment of the relative crystalline content. Thanks to FT-IR analysis, the degradation of hemicellulose was observed for uncoated samples after exposure to artificial weathering. The effect of weathering was less evident on coated samples because of the protective action of the coating. A good correlation between the crystallinity indexes obtained from FT-IR and XRD was found. The experimental results proved that the proposed method may be a very useful tool for a rapid and accurate estimation of the degradation level of wood exposed to weathering. This methodology can find application in the field of conservation and restoration of wooden objects or in the industry of wood coatings.
Development and Characterization of Amorphous Thermoplastic Matrix Graphene Nanocomposites
Authors: Greco Antonio , Timo Alessia , Maffezzoli Alfonso
Published: October 2012

The aim of the present work is the development of amorphous thermoplastic matrix nanocomposites based on graphite nanoparticles. Different types of graphite were used, including unmodified graphite, graphene nanoplatelets and graphite intercalation compounds. Graphite intercalation compounds were subjected to thermal treatment to attain exfoliation of the nanofiller. The exfoliation process was studied by means of thermal analysis. The nanofillers and nanocomposites were characterized by means of X-ray Diffraction (XRD) and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) analysis. The nanocomposites were further characterized by means of mechanical and dielectric analysis. The flammability of the nanocomposites was also analyzed. Results obtained indicate that addition of the nanofiller allows improving the proprieties of the amorphous thermoplastic matrix. The effect of the degree of dispersion of the nanofiller is particularly relevant for the dielectric properties of the nanocomposites, whereas no direct correlation between degree of dispersion and mechanical properties can be observed.
Assessment of the Bacteriocinogenic Potential of Marine Bacteria Reveals Lichenicidin Production by Seaweed-Derived Bacillus spp.
Authors: Prieto Maria Luz , O’Sullivan Laurie , Tan Shiau Pin , McLoughlin Peter , Hughes Helen , O’Connor Paula M. , Cotter Paul D. , Lawlor Peadar G. , Gardiner Gillian E.
Published: October 2012

The objectives of this study were (1) to assess the bacteriocinogenic potential of bacteria derived mainly from seaweed, but also sand and seawater, (2) to identify at least some of the bacteriocins produced, if any and (3) to determine if they are unique to the marine environment and/or novel. Fifteen Bacillus licheniformis or pumilus isolates with antimicrobial activity against at least one of the indicator bacteria used were recovered. Some, at least, of the antimicrobials produced were bacteriocins, as they were proteinaceous and the producers displayed immunity. Screening with PCR primers for known Bacillus bacteriocins revealed that three seaweed-derived Bacillus licheniformis harbored the bli04127 gene which encodes one of the peptides of the two-peptide lantibiotic lichenicidin. Production of both lichenicidin peptides was then confirmed by mass spectrometry. This is the first definitive proof of bacteriocin production by seaweed-derived bacteria. The authors acknowledge that the bacteriocin produced has previously been discovered and is not unique to the marine environment. However, the other marine isolates likely produce novel bacteriocins, as none harboured genes for known Bacillus bacteriocins.
Effects of Oral Administration of Fucoidan Extracted from Cladosiphon okamuranus on Tumor Growth and Survival Time in a Tumor-Bearing Mouse Model
Authors: Azuma Kazuo , Ishihara Toshitsugu , Nakamoto Hiroyuki , Amaha Takao , Osaki Tomohiro , Tsuka Takeshi , Imagawa Tomohiro , Minami Saburo , Takashima Osamu , Ifuku Shinsuke , Morimoto Minoru , Saimoto Hiroyuki , Kawamoto Hitoshi , Okamoto Yoshiharu
Published: October 2012

We evaluated the anti-tumor activities of the oral administration of fucoidan extracted from Cladosiphon okamuranus using a tumor (colon 26)-bearing mouse model. The materials used included low-molecular-weight fucoidan (LMWF: 6.5–40 kDa), intermediate-molecular-weight fucoidan (IMWF: 110–138 kDa) and high-molecular-weight fucoidan (HMWF: 300–330 kDa). The IMWF group showed significantly suppressed tumor growth. The LMWF and HMWF groups showed significantly increased survival times compared with that observed in the control group (mice fed a fucoidan-free diet). The median survival times in the control, LMWF, IMWF and HMWF groups were 23, 46, 40 and 43 days, respectively. It was also found that oral administration of fucoidan increased the population of natural killer cells in the spleen. Furthermore, from the results of the experiment using Myd-88 knockout mice, it was found that these effects are related to gut immunity. These results suggest that fucoidan is a candidate anti-tumor functional food.
ω-Conotoxin GVIA Mimetics that Bind and Inhibit Neuronal Cav2.2 Ion Channels
Authors: Tranberg Charlotte Elisabet , Yang Aijun , Vetter Irina , McArthur Jeffrey R. , Baell Jonathan B. , Lewis Richard J. , Tuck Kellie L. , Duggan Peter J.
Published: October 2012

The neuronal voltage-gated N-type calcium channel (Cav2.2) is a validated target for the treatment of neuropathic pain. A small library of anthranilamide-derived ω-Conotoxin GVIA mimetics bearing the diphenylmethylpiperazine moiety were prepared and tested using three experimental measures of calcium channel blockade. These consisted of a 125I-ω-conotoxin GVIA displacement assay, a fluorescence-based calcium response assay with SH-SY5Y neuroblastoma cells, and a whole-cell patch clamp electrophysiology assay with HEK293 cells stably expressing human Cav2.2 channels. A subset of compounds were active in all three assays. This is the first time that compounds designed to be mimics of ω-conotoxin GVIA and found to be active in the 125I-ω-conotoxin GVIA displacement assay have also been shown to block functional ion channels in a dose-dependent manner.
Investigation of Cross-Linked and Additive Containing Polymer Materials for Membranes with Improved Performance in Pervaporation and Gas Separation
Authors: Hunger Katharina , Schmeling Nadine , Jeazet Harold B. Tanh , Janiak Christoph , Staudt Claudia , Kleinermanns Karl
Published: October 2012

Pervaporation and gas separation performances of polymer membranes can be improved by crosslinking or addition of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs). Crosslinked copolyimide membranes show higher plasticization resistance and no significant loss in selectivity compared to non-crosslinked membranes when exposed to mixtures of CO2/CH4 or toluene/cyclohexane. Covalently crosslinked membranes reveal better separation performances than ionically crosslinked systems. Covalent interlacing with 3-hydroxypropyldimethylmaleimide as photocrosslinker can be investigated in situ in solution as well as in films, using transient UV/Vis and FTIR spectroscopy. The photocrosslinking yield can be determined from the FTIR-spectra. It is restricted by the stiﬀness of the copolyimide backbone, which inhibits the photoreaction due to spatial separation of the crosslinker side chains. Mixed-matrix membranes (MMMs) with MOFs as additives (fillers) have increased permeabilities and often also selectivities compared to the pure polymer. Incorporation of MOFs into polysulfone and Matrimid® polymers for MMMs gives defect-free membranes with performances similar to the best polymer membranes for gas mixtures, such as O2/N2 H2/CH4, CO2/CH4, H2/CO2, CH4/N2 and CO2/N2 (preferentially permeating gas is named first). The MOF porosity, its particle size and content in the MMM are factors to influence the permeability and the separation performance of the membranes.
Bioassays Against Pinewood Nematode: Assessment of a Suitable Dilution Agent and Screening for Bioactive Essential Oils
Authors: Barbosa Pedro , Faria Jorge M. S. , Mendes Marta D. , Dias Luís Silva , Tinoco Maria Teresa , Barroso José G. , Pedro Luis G. , Figueiredo Ana Cristina , Mota Manuel
Published: October 2012

Acetone was investigated and found to be an appropriate alternative to Triton X-100 as a solvent of essential oils in bioassays aimed to investigate their effects on pinewood nematode (Bursaphelenchus xylophilus) mortality. Therefore it was used as dilution agent to screen the effectiveness of fifty two essential oils against this pest. Thirteen essential oils were highly effective, resulting in more than 90% pinewood nematode mortality at 2 mg/mL, with six of them resulting in 100% mortality. LC100 values ranged between 0.50 mg/mL and 0.83 mg/mL for the essential oils of Origanum vulgare and Satureja montana, respectively. Essential oils were submitted to gas chromatography and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis and their chemical composition established. Data from essential oils with 100% mortality at 2 mg/mL and other essential oils previously found to have LC100 ≤ 2 mg/mL was combined, their chemical profiles investigated by correspondences analysis plus automatic classification.
Two New Cholic Acid Derivatives from the Marine Ascidian-Associated Bacterium Hasllibacter halocynthiae
Authors: Kim Sung Hun , Shin Yun Kyung , Sohn Young Chang , Kwon Hak Cheol
Published: October 2012

The investigation of secondary metabolites in liquid cultures of a recently discovered marine bacterium, Hasllibacter halocynthiae strain KME 002T, led to the isolation of two new cholic acid derivatives. The structures of these compounds were determined to be 3,3,12-trihydroxy-7-ketocholanic acid (1) and 3,3,12-trihydroxy-7-deoxycholanic acid (2) through HRFABMS and NMR data analyses.
Synthesis, FTIR, 13C-NMR and Temperature-Dependent 1H‑NMR Characteristics of Bis-naphthalimide Derivatives
Authors: Grzesiak Waldemar , Brycki Bogumił
Published: October 2012

Chemotherapy is still the most important method of cancer treatment. To make this method more effective and safe, new drugs to destroy cancer cells are needed. Some bis-naphthalimide derivatives show potential anticancer activity via an intercalation mechanism. A higher degree of DNA intercalation corresponds to better therapeutic effects. The degree of intercalation of naphthalimides depends on their structure, molecular dynamics and intermolecular interactions with DNA. In order to apply any active substance as a drug, its molecular dynamics as well as possible interactions with target molecules have to be examined in exhaustive details. This paper describes a practical preparation of some novel bis-naphthalimide derivatives with different functional groups and their FTIR and 1H- and 13C-NMR spectral characteristics. To determine the molecular dynamics of the obtained compounds the temperature, their 1H-NMR spectra were measured. It has been clearly proven in this paper that the unusual temperature-dependent 1H-NMR behavior of the aromatic protons of phthalimide derivatives, previously described in the literature as “hypersensitivity” and explained by n-π interactions and molecular motions of aromatic amide rings, is a result of temperature driven changes of the geometry of carbonyl groups.