bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of display cabinet cooling on performance of supermarket buildings
Authors: Hill Frances , Edwards Rodger , Levermore Geoffrey
Published: June 2013

Energy demand attributable to the operation of supermarkets is thought to be responsible for 1% of UK greenhouse gas emissions. Current building regulations in the UK require the “building related” energy use of new commercial buildings to comply with particular requirements. Supermarket buildings are therefore modelled in considerable detail, according to these protocols to establish their predicted energy demand. Lighting, occupancy, and small electrical energy impacts are included in this modelling. However, a large gap is found between the design outputs of this modelling and the energy performance of the store in operation. One reason for this is that thermal interactions at the refrigeration cabinets are not included in this modelling, as refrigeration is classified as “process energy” rather than “building related.” This paper explores the comparative energy demands of supermarket retail floors simulated both with and without the cooling effect of refrigeration cabinets included in the simulation. The retail floor of a recently built supermarket is modelled using EnergyPlus.

Practical applications: It has been shown that the energy demand of the retail floor of a new store could be reduced by 25% by improvement of the envelope, by halving ventilation rates and doubling insulation levels. This has been shown by simulation of the building energy flows with refrigeration cabinets included in the modelling (whereas these are currently excluded as process energy). Changes in modelling protocols, and regulations, to encompass refrigeration energy transfers, could reduce the national load, due to supermarkets, by at least 140 MW in 5 years. Energy costs to the retailer would be reduced by 20%. Additionally, the simulation has shown the contribution of rooflights to the reduction of energy demand to be lower than previously predicted, saving only around 1/3 of design expectations.
Passion and habitual entrepreneurship
Authors: Thorgren Sara , Wincent Joakim
Published: June 2013

This research note explores the differences between habitual entrepreneurs (serial and portfolio entrepreneurs) and novices in terms of their passion for entrepreneurial activities. Using the Dualistic Model of Passion as a conceptual framework, the hypotheses were tested using a random sample of entrepreneurs that registered a limited company in 2008. Results of logistic regression analyses showed that habitual entrepreneurs experience extra high passion for entrepreneurial activity. However, of the two passion dimensions proposed in the Dualistic Model of Passion – harmonious passion and obsessive passion – the obsessive component is particularly evident among habitual entrepreneurs. A closer analysis, comparing novice, serial and portfolio entrepreneurship, suggests that portfolio entrepreneurs score highest on the harmonious dimension of passion.
The diagnostic role for susceptibility-weighted MRI during sporadic hemiplegic migraine
Authors: Fedak Erin M , Zumberge Nicholas A , Heyer Geoffrey L
Published: June 2013

Background

Hemiplegic migraine is a rare form of migraine with aura that includes motor weakness. Diagnosis during the first episode can be difficult to make and costly, especially with the sporadic form.

Cases

Our study evaluates the ictal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features of four sequential pediatric patients during a first-time, sporadic hemiplegic migraine. Susceptibility-weighted imaging (SWI) revealed cerebral venous prominence and increased magnetic susceptibility affecting brain regions that corresponded with each patient’s neurologic deficits. Repeat MRI (performed in three patients) following migraine recovery demonstrated resolution of all susceptibility abnormalities.

Conclusion

When combined with conventional MRI sequences, SWI has diagnostic value in the acute setting of motor weakness and with clinical features consistent with hemiplegic migraine. The sequence may help to further characterize ictal cerebral blood flow changes during the hemiplegic migraine aura.
Empirical Estimates of the Influence of Renewable Energy Portfolio Standards on the Green Economies of States
Authors: Bowen William M. , Park Sunjoo , Elvery Joel A.
Published: June 2013

The contribution of state renewable energy portfolio standards (RPS) to green business and job growth is controversial. This research estimated the contribution of RPS to state green industrial growth empirically by stipulating and econometrically controlling for a range of state economic growth variables and, having done so, adding RPS variables. Our modeling framework assumed that if RPS have any effect on the green economy in a state, the effect occurs after a period of social and economic adjustment processes that began when the RPS were enacted. Our findings indicate that the presence of RPS have no discernible effect one way or the other on green job growth, but the persistence of RPS through time does cause an increase in the number of green businesses.
Engine automatic start–stop dynamic analysis and vibration reduction for a two-mode hybrid vehicle
Authors: Chen Jia-Shiun , Hwang Hsiu-Ying
Published: June 2013

Hybrid electric vehicles are an effective solution for reducing pollution and improving the fuel economy. Their control strategy often makes the vehicle control unit shut down and restart the internal-combustion engine for better fuel consumption. Starting and stopping the engine can cause driveline vibration, which is easily passed to the driver through the vehicle structure, causing ride discomfort. This research simulates the neutral start and stop of a two-mode hybrid system and correlates this with hardware tests. It investigates a pulse cancellation algorithm to cancel undesired vibration and to smooth ripples in the engine speed during automatic start–stop transitions. Electric motors provide torque to cancel unwanted torque impulses from uneven automatic starts or stops. This study also investigates the damper-bypass clutch. The results show that using pulse cancellation and the damper-bypass clutch can significantly reduce the reaction torque acting on the engine block and vibration of the seat track during automatic start–stop transitions.
Multilingualism in late-modern Africa: Identity, mobility and multivocality
Authors: Dyers Charlyn
Published: June 2013

This paper is a summary of the four papers presented by the invited panel on African multilingualism to ISB8. The presenters and the respective countries they represented were panel chair Charlyn Dyers (South Africa), Felix Banda (Zambia), Feliciano Chimbutane (Mozambique) and Omondi Oketch (Kenya). The four papers in this panel apply the notion of multilingualism as social practice to the urban African context in a post-modern era characterized by intense mobility, not only across spaces but also across linguistic and other semiotic systems. In particular, they reveal how identities are performed through harnessing multiple semiotic systems, different practices and modalities, and how different semiotic resources are adopted, reconstituted and adapted to different contexts and communication needs, leading to the transformation and reconstruction of everyday discourses.
Subjective impressions under LED and metal halide lighting
Authors: Kostic A , Djokic L
Published: June 2013

In order to compare subjective impressions created by LED and metal halide ambient lighting, a pilot project was conducted in a Belgrade park. All general requirements for an adequate comparison of subjective impressions were fulfilled. The survey was conducted using a questionnaire related to all aspects the researchers considered relevant for subjective evaluation of illuminated pedestrian paths in parks. It was concluded that the respondents, both those who had and those who did not have previous knowledge in the field of lighting, strongly preferred the use of metal halide lamps for the illumination of parks, which is in opposition to the statements of some LED manufacturers. It was also shown that light level and feelings of safety and comfort are evaluated as most important.
Increasing glucagon secretion could antagonize the action of exogenous insulin for glycemic control in streptozocin-induced diabetic rhesus monkeys
Authors: He Sirong , Wang Dan , Lu Yanrong , Chen Younan , Jin Xi , Wang Chengsi , Zhao Jingming , Ren Yan , Wang Li , Li Hongxia , Cheng Jingqiu
Published: June 2013

Although intraislet insulin signaling is known to play a critical role in regulating glucagon secretion, it is unknown whether abnormal glucagon secretion influences the hypoglycemic effect of exogenous insulin with intraislet insulin deletion. We performed a longitudinal study using 16 streptozocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rhesus monkeys to explore α-cell function under the absence β-cells and to assess whether increasing glucagon secretion antagonizes the action of exogenous insulin for glycemic control. We found that although the α-cells were impaired and the basal secretion levels of glucagon decreased rapidly after STZ (80–90 mg/kg) administration, as based on long-term observation post-STZ injection, glucagon secretion and the number of α-cells were increased. Glycemic control was increasingly difficult, the insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) index was significantly higher, and the triglycerides (TG) levels were gradually decreased. Moreover, a significant correlation between the levels of glucagon and HOMA-IR was found. Under the long-term absence of β-cells, the inhibitory effect on α-cell activity is profoundly attenuated, leading to an increase in glucagon secretion and the amount of α-cells and even α-cell dysfunction. Increased glucagon levels have a serious impact on the insulin sensitivity in vivo and result in an antagonization of the hypoglycemic effect of exogenous insulin.
The role of neuroimaging in the diagnosis of headache disorders
Authors: Holle Dagny , Obermann Mark
Published: June 2013

Headache is a common clinical feature in patients in the emergency room and in general neurology clinics. For physicians not experienced in headache disorders it might be difficult sometimes to decide in which patients neuroimaging is necessary to diagnose an underlying brain pathology and in which patients cerebral imaging is unnecessary. Most patients presenting to the primary-care physician with a nonacute headache and no further neurological signs or symptoms will not be suffering from an underlying serious condition. This review focuses on the main primary headache diseases, including migraine, tension-type headache and cluster headache, as well as frequent secondary headache entities with common clinical presentation and appropriate diagnostic and therapeutic algorithms to help guide the decision on the utilization of neuroimaging in the diagnostic workup.
Black Church Giving
Authors: Barnes Sandra L.
Published: June 2013

Church giving is an understudied phenomenon; queries on Black Church giving are even rarer. In response to the latter dynamic, levels of tithing, income, and mission donations are examined based on a national sample of 1,601 Black churches across seven denominations using linear and ordered logit modeling. Findings show minimal ideological and programmatic effects. However, denominational differences suggest that Black congregations affiliated with the Church of God in Christ have higher relative percentages of tithers and those associated with the Presbyterian and United Methodist faiths have the lowest rates as compared with their Baptist peers. Moreover, African Methodist Episcopal Zion, Presbyterian, and United Methodist churches are more likely to have higher church incomes and mission giving than Baptists. Thus, although Baptists tend to generally have higher rates of church tithers, this pattern does not translate to higher church incomes or mission donations. As expected, church size and formally educated memberships positively influence giving patterns. Results provide important insights into the Black Church economic ethic.
The Support to an Entrepreneur
Authors: Albert Marie-Noëlle , Couture Marie-Michèle
Published: June 2013

Entrepreneurs are often associated with autonomy, but one of the coauthors, the sole owner of a microbusiness, had a different experience. Based on this, we used an autobiographical narrative method in a constructivist paradigm to explore this phenomenon that is autonomy. The coauthor’s different experience developed the idea that difficulties lived by an entrepreneur can transform autonomy into dependence. This negative complex process is grounded on a request for help by the entrepreneur and the dissymmetric relation between the person who needs help and the support. This kind of relationship promotes a loss of the entrepreneur’s capacities. A non-co-construction of solution (by the entrepreneur and the support) is not only less productive, but could also develop a very negative process. This finding is important to better understand support to entrepreneurs.
Glucose-induced gradual phenotypic modulation of cultured human glomerular epithelial cells may be independent of Wilms’ tumor 1 (WT1)
Authors: Tsotakos Nikolaos E , Sagnou Marina , Kotsopoulou Eleni S , Tsilibary Effie C , Drossopoulou Garyfalia I
Published: June 2013

Background

Renal podocytes form the main filtration barrier possessing a unique phenotype maintained by proteins including podocalyxin and nephrin, the expression of which is suppressed in pathological conditions. We used an in vitro model of human glomerular epithelial cells (HGEC) to investigate the role of high glucose in dysregulating the podocytic epithelial phenotype and determined the time needed for this change to occur.

Results

In our in vitro podocyte system changes indicating podocyte dedifferentiation in the prolonged presence of high glucose included loss of podocalyxin, nephrin and CD10/CALLA concomitant with upregulation of mesenchymal vimentin. Our study demonstrates for the first time that podocyte-specific markers undergo changes of expression at different time intervals, since glucose-mediated podocalyxin downregulation is a progressive process that precedes downregulation of nephrin expression. Finally we demonstrate that high glucose permanently impaired WT1 binding to the podocalyxin gene promoter region but did not affect WT1 binding on the nephrin gene promoter region.

Conclusion

The presence of high glucose induced a phenotypic conversion of podocytes resembling partial dedifferentiation. Our study demonstrates that dysregulation of the normal podocytic phenotype is an event differentially affecting the expression of function-specific podocytic markers, exhibiting downregulation of the epithelial marker CD10/CALLA and PC first, followed by stably downregulated nephrin. Furthermore, it is herein suggested that WT1 may not be directly involved with upregulation of previously reduced PC and nephrin expression.
Boolean network-based model of the Bcl-2 family mediated MOMP regulation
Authors: Tokar Tomas , Turcan Zdenko , Ulicny Jozef
Published: June 2013

Background

Mitochondrial outer membrane permeabilization (MOMP) is one of the most important points in the majority of apoptotic signaling cascades and it is controlled by a network of interactions between the members of the Bcl-2 family.

Methods

To understand the role of individual members of this family within the MOMP regulation, we have constructed a Boolean network-based model of interactions between the Bcl-2 proteins.

Results

Computational simulations have revealed the existence of trapping states which, independently from the incoming stimuli, block the occurrence of MOMP. Our results emphasize the role of the antiapoptotic protein Mcl-1 in the majority of these configurations. We demonstrate here the importance of the Bid and Bim for activation of effectors Bax and Bak, and the irreversibility of this activation. The model further points to the antiapoptotic protein Bcl-w as a key factor preventing Bax activation.

Conclusions

In spite of relative simplicity, the Boolean network-based model provides useful insight into main functioning logic of the Bcl-2 switch, consistent with experimental findings.
Gene delivery in a mouse xenograft of a retargeted retrovirus to a solid 143B osteosarcoma
Authors: Zhang Xia , Sarangi Anindita , Wu Dai-Tze , Kanduri Jaya , Roth Monica J
Published: June 2013

Background

Osteosarcomas are the most common primary bone malignancies found in children and adolescents. An optimized system was developed for efficient retroviral gene delivery into solid 143B osteosarcoma tumors in mice using a retargeted Env. In these studies, the viral Env CP was isolated from an in vitro screen of a library of feline leukemia virus Env randomized in the receptor-binding domain and maintained high titer on human 143B osteosarcoma cell line.

Findings

The vector developed to express the random Env libraries encoded the drug selectable marker neo. To adapt this for studies in live animals, the murine based vector was modified to express the luciferase gene. The bicistronic vector developed expressed both the CP Env and luciferase in the presence of either the MPMV CTE or a WPRE element. Virus bearing the CP FeLV Env variant maintained high titers after concentration allowing for direct visualization of delivery of the luciferase gene in subcutaneous 143B osteosarcoma tumors.

Conclusion

This system serves as a proof-of-concept for the use of novel FeLV Env pseudotyped MLV particles for in vivo gene delivery. Gene delivery and expression of lucerifase from viral particles bearing the CP Env was readily detected in live mice after a single round of intratumor injection.
Do current screening recommendations allow for early detection of lithium-induced hyperparathyroidism in patients with bipolar disorder?
Authors: Berger Michael , Riedel Michael , Tomova Nora , Obermeier Michael , Seemüller Florian , Dittmann Sandra , Moeller Hans-Jürgen , Severus Emanuel
Published: June 2013

Background

Current screening recommendations for early detection of lithium-associated hyperparathyroidism propose an exclusive measurement of serum albumin-adjusted calcium (Aac) concentration as a single first step. However, longitudinal data in patients with recurrent affective disorders suggest that increases in serum intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH) levels in lithium-treated patients may not necessarily be accompanied by a parallel increase in the concentration of Aac. If true, patients with an isolated increase in iPTH concentration above the reference range might be missed following current screening recommendations. Therefore, this study set out to examine key parameters of calcium metabolism, including iPTH and 25-hydroxycholecalciferol concentrations in patients with bipolar disorder that was or was not managed with lithium.

Methods

Sixty patients with bipolar disorder according to DSM-IV were enrolled, 30 of whom had received long-term lithium treatment (lithium group), whereas the other 30 patients were on psychopharmacological treatment not including lithium (non-lithium group) at the time of the study. Owing to exclusion criteria (e.g., lithium < 6 months, laboratory results indicative of secondary hyperparathyroidism), 23 bipolar patients composed the final lithium group, whereas 28 patients remained in the non-lithium group for statistical analyses.

Results

Patients in the lithium group showed a significantly higher concentration of iPTH compared to the non-lithium group (p < 0.05). Similarly, Aac concentrations were significantly increased in the lithium group compared to the non-lithium group (p < 0.05). However, in a multivariate linear regression model, group affiliation only predicted iPTH concentration (p < 0.05). In line with this, none of the four patients in the lithium group with an iPTH concentration above the reference range had an Aac concentration above the reference range.

Discussion

This study suggests that the biochemical characteristics between primary hyperparathyroidism and lithium-induced hyperparathyroidism differ substantially with regard to regulation of calcium homeostasis. As such, current screening practice does not reliably detect iPTH concentrations above the reference range. Therefore, further research is needed to elucidate the consequences of an isolated iPTH concentration above the reference range in order to develop the most appropriate screening tools for hyperparathyroidism in lithium-treated patients with bipolar disorder.
A Human FSHB Promoter SNP Associated With Low FSH Levels in Men Impairs LHX3 Binding and Basal FSHB Transcription
Authors: Benson Courtney A. , Kurz Troy L. , Thackray Varykina G.
Published: June 2013

FSH production is important for human gametogenesis. In addition to inactivating mutations in the FSHB gene, which result in infertility in both sexes, a G/T single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) at −211 relative to the transcription start site of the 5′ untranslated region of FSHB has been reported to be associated with reduced serum FSH levels in men. In this study, we sought to identify the potential mechanism by which the −211 SNP reduces FSH levels. Although the SNP resides in a putative hormone response element, we showed that, unlike the murine gene, human FSHB was not induced by androgens or progestins in gonadotropes. On the other hand, we found that the LHX3 homeodomain transcription factor bound to an 11-bp element in the human FSHB promoter that includes the −211 nucleotide. Furthermore, we also demonstrated that LHX3 bound with greater affinity to the wild-type human FSHB promoter compared with the −211 G/T mutation and that LHX3 binding was more effectively competed with excess wild-type oligonucleotide than with the SNP. Finally, we showed that FSHB transcription was decreased in gonadotrope cells with the −211 G/T mutation compared with the wild-type FSHB promoter. Altogether, our results suggest that decreased serum FSH levels in men with the SNP likely result from reduced LHX3 binding and induction of FSHB transcription.
6. Bremer eBook-Tag
Authors: Rautenberg Anke
Published: June 2013

Seit 2006 richtet der Bibliotheksdienstleister Missing Link den Bremer eBook-Tag aus. Die diesjährige Veranstaltung behandelte schwerpunktmäßig das Erwerbungsmodell Patron Driven Acquisition. Daneben wurden viele neue Entwicklungen und Angebote rund ums eBook vorgestellt und Besonderheiten bei der Arbeit mit eBooks diskutiert. Der vorliegende Beitrag bietet einen Überblick über die Veranstaltung und fasst die Vorträge zusammen.
Crystal structure of tetraaqua-bis(4-(1,2,4-triazol-4-yl)benzoato-κN)-zinc(II) decahydrate, C18H40N6O18Zn
Authors: Han Songbai , Wang Hongli
Published: June 2013

C18H40N6O18Zn, monoclinic, C2/c (no. 15), a = 25.84(2) Å, b = 7.910(5) Å, c = 16.856(1) Å, β = 112.734(9)°, V = 3177 Å3, Z = 4, Rgt(F) = 0.0319, wRref(F2) = 0.0757, T = 293 K.
Crystal structure of 4-phenyl-5-(trifluoromethyl)-thiophene-2-carboxylic acid, C12H7F3O2S
Authors: Zhu Guang-Zhou , Lu Zai-Sheng , Shi Huan-Le
Published: June 2013

C12H7F3O2S, triclinic, P1̅ (no. 2), a = 11.092(2) Å, b = 12.928(2) Å, c = 14.071(2) Å, α = 114.708(2)°, β = 104.991(2)°, γ = 90.827(2)°, V = 1753.2 Å3, Z = 6, Rgt(F) = 0.0374, wRref(F2) = 0.1101, T = 296 K.
An ihren Worten sollt ihr sie erkennen – Zuordnung, Eingrenzung und Abgrenzung als Grundfunktionen der Sprache
Authors: Raecke Jochen
Published: June 2013

Starting from the believe that the main function of the language is communication, the article problematizes the obviousness of this assumption. The linguistic situation in the Slavia after the revolutions of 1989 suggests quite another idea: speaking the same language significates the membership of a community, i.e. the diversification of (not only Slavonic) languages attests a social need of individuals rather than the wish to communicate ideas, emotions etc. Speaking a language means to belong to a certain social group and to be distinguished from another social group. Thus, Bühler’s organon model has to be inverted, the assigning function of the language precedes all other functions (representing, appealing etc.). As the author assumes, most of such common linguistic developments like language change, multilingualism or the difficulty to speak a foreign language without accent can be attributed to this basic function of exclusion and inclusion.
Highly prevalent TERT promoter mutations in aggressive thyroid cancers
Authors: Liu Xiaoli , Bishop Justin , Shan Yuan , Pai Sara , Liu Dingxie , Murugan Avaniyapuram Kannan , Sun Hui , El-Naggar Adel K , Xing Mingzhao
Published: June 2013

Mutations 1 295 228 C>T and 1 295 250 C>T (termed C228T and C250T respectively), corresponding to −124 C>T and −146 C>T from the translation start site in the promoter of the telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) gene, have recently been reported in human cancers, but not in thyroid cancers yet. We explored these mutations in thyroid cancers by genomic sequencing of a large number of primary tumor samples. We found the C228T mutation in 0 of 85 (0.0%) benign thyroid tumors, 30 of 257 (11.7%) papillary thyroid cancers (PTC), 9 of 79 (11.4%) follicular thyroid cancers (FTC), 3 of 8 (37.5%) poorly differentiated thyroid cancers (PDTC), 23 of 54 (42.6%) anaplastic thyroid cancers (ATC), and 8 of 12 (66.7%) thyroid cancer cell lines. The C250T mutation was uncommon, but mutually exclusive with the C228T mutation, and the two mutations were collectively found in 11 of 79 (13.9%) FTC, 25 of 54 (46.3%) ATC, and 11 of 12 (91.7%) thyroid cancer cell lines. Among PTC variants, the C228T mutation was found in 4 of 13 (30.8%) tall-cell PTC (TCPTC), 23 of 187 (12.3%) conventional PTC, and 2 of 56 (3.6%) follicular variant PTC samples. No TERT mutation was found in 16 medullary thyroid cancer samples. The C228T mutation was associated with the BRAF V600E mutation in PTC, being present in 19 of 104 (18.3%) BRAF mutation-positive PTC vs 11 of 153 (7.2%) the BRAF mutation-negative PTC samples (P=0.0094). Conversely, BRAF mutation was found in 19 of 30 (63.3%) C228T mutation-positive PTC vs 85 of 227 (37.4%) C228T mutation-negative PTC samples (P=0.0094). We thus for the first time, to our knowledge, demonstrate TERT promoter mutations in thyroid cancers, that are particularly prevalent in the aggressive thyroid cancers TCPTC, PDTC, ATC and BRAF mutation-positive PTC, revealing a novel genetic background for thyroid cancers.
The checkered history of checkerboard distributions
Authors: Connor Edward F. , Collins Michael D. , Simberloff Daniel
Published: June 2013

To address the idea that the process of interspecific competition can be inferred from data on geographical distribution alone and that evidence from geographical distribution implies an important role for interspecific competition in shaping ecological communities, we reexamine the occurrence of “true checkerboard” distributions among the land and freshwater birds in three Melanesian archipelagoes: Vanuatu, the Bismarck Archipelago, and the Solomon Islands. We use the most recently published distributional records and explicitly include the geography of the distributions of species within each archipelago.

We use the overlap of convex hulls to estimate the overlap in the geographic range for each pair of species in each of these archipelagoes. We define a “true checkerboard” to consist of a pair of species with exclusive island‐by‐island distributions, but that have overlapping geographical ranges. To avoid the “dilution effect,” we follow Diamond and Gilpin in focusing only on congeneric and within‐guild species pairs as potential competitors.

Few, if any, “true checkerboards” exist in these archipelagoes that could possibly have been influenced by competitive interactions, and even “true checkerboards” can arise for reasons other than interspecific competition. The similarity between related species pairs (congeneric and within‐guild pairs) and unrelated species pairs in their deviation from expectation of the number of islands shared and the overlap of their geographic ranges indicates that these are not distinct statistical populations, but rather a single population of species pairs. Our result, which is based on an examination of the distributional data alone, is consistent with the interpretation that, in these avifaunas, the distributions of congeneric, within‐guild, and unrelated species pairs are shaped by a common set of biological and physical environmental processes.
Structure‐Dependent Water‐Induced Linear Reduction Model for Predicting Gas Diffusivity and Tortuosity in Repacked and Intact Soil
Authors: Moldrup Per , Chamindu Deepagoda T.K.K. , Hamamoto Shoichiro , Komatsu Toshiko , Kawamoto Ken , Rolston Dennis E. , de Jonge Lis Wollesen
Published: June 2013

The soil‐gas diffusion is a primary driver of transport, reactions, emissions, and uptake of vadose zone gases, including oxygen, greenhouse gases, fumigants, and spilled volatile organics. The soil‐gas diffusion coefficient, Dp, depends not only on soil moisture content, texture, and compaction but also on the local‐scale variability of these. Different predictive models have been developed to estimate Dp in intact and repacked soil, but clear guidelines for model choice at a given soil state are lacking. In this study, the water‐induced linear reduction (WLR) model for repacked soil is made adaptive for different soil structure conditions (repacked, intact) by introducing a media complexity factor (Cm) in the dry media term of the model. With Cm = 1, the new structure‐dependent WLR (SWLR) model accurately predicted soil‐gas diffusivity (Dp/Do, where Do is the gas diffusion coefficient in free air) in repacked soils containing between 0 and 54% clay. With Cm = 2.1, the SWLR model on average gave excellent predictions for 290 intact soils, performing well across soil depths, textures, and compactions (dry bulk densities). The SWLR model generally outperformed similar, simple Dp/Do models also depending solely on total and air‐filled porosity. With Cm = 3, the SWLR performed well as a lower‐limit Dp/Do model, which is useful in terms of predicting critical air‐filled porosity for adequate soil aeration. Because the SWLR model distinguishes between and well represents both repacked and intact soil conditions, this model is recommended for use in simulations of gas diffusion and fate in the soil vadose zone, for example, as a key element in developing more accurate climate change models.
Reclassification of Trichoderma Viride (TNAU), the Most Widely Used
Commercial Biofungicide in India, as Trichoderma Asperelloides
Authors: Mukherjee Prasun K. , Mukherjee Arup K. , Kranthi Sandhya
Published: June 2013

Trichoderma “viride” TNAU is the most widely used biofungicide in India with more than 250 registered commercial formulations being available. We have studied the phylogenetic position of this strain using a molecular marker and determined that this commercial strain is, in fact, a strain of Trichoderma asperelloides, and not T. viride. The implications of these findings on the registration and commercial distribution of biofungicides based on this strain has been discussed.
ISCHEMIA MODIFIED ALBUMIN LEVELS AND INCREASED OXIDATIVE STRESS IN PATIENTS WITH MULTIPLE MYELOMA / NIVOI ALBUMINA MODIFIKOVANOG ISHEMIJOM I POVI[ENI OKSIDANTNI STRES KOD PACIJENATA SA MULTIPLIM MIJELOMOM
Authors: Ellidag Hamit Yasar , Eren Esin , Yilmaz Necat , Bayindir Asli
Published: June 2013

Background: Impaired oxidative/antioxidative balance plays an important role in the pathogenesis of many diseases, including cancer. The aim of this study was to evaluate the levels of the novel marker ischemia modified albumin (IMA) and albumin adjusted-IMA (Adj-IMA) in patients with multi- ple myeloma (MM) as well as its association with total antiox- idant status (TAS), total oxidant status (TOS) and oxidative stress index (OSI).

Methods: Forty patients with MM (18 females, 22 males; mean age 67.55±8.39 years) and forty age/sex-matched healthy persons (19 females, 21 males; mean age 66.37 ± 6.76 years) were included in this study. Serum levels of IMA, TAS, TOS were analyzed and Adj-IMA and OSI was calcu- lated. Results:

Serum IMA, TOS and OSI levels were significantly higher in patients with MM compared to controls (p<0.001 all parameters). There was no significant difference for serum albumin-adjusted IMA and TAS levels between groups (p=0.83 and p=0.17 respectively).

Conclusions: In this study, an impaired oxidative/antioxidant status in favor of oxidative stress was found in MM patients. This observation was not confirmed by Adj-IMA calculation. Further studies are needed to establish the relationship of IMA and oxidative stress parameters in multiple myeloma and their relationship to MM and other cancers.
Protective effects of preserving the posterior complex on the development of adjacent-segment degeneration after lumbar fusion
Authors: Liu Haichun , Wu Wenliang , Li Yi , Liu Jinwei , Yang Kaiyun , Chen Yunzhen
Published: June 2013

Object

During the past decades, lumbar fusion has increasingly become a standard treatment for degenerative spinal disorders. However, it has also been associated with an increased incidence of adjacent-segment degeneration (ASD). Previous studies have reported less ASD in anterior fusion surgeries; thus, the authors hypothesized that the integrity of the posterior complex plays an important role in ASD. This study was designed to investigate the effect of the posterior complex on adjacent instability after lumbar instrumentation and the development of ASD.

Methods

To evaluate different surgical interventions, 120 patients were randomly allocated into 3 groups of 40 patients each who were statistically similar with respect to demographic and clinical data. Patients in Group A were allocated for facet joint resection and L4–5 fusion, Group B for semilaminectomy and fusion, and Group C for complete laminectomy and fusion. All of the patients were followed up for 5–7 years (mean 5.9 years). The disc height, intervertebral disc angle, dynamic intervertebral angular range of motion (ROM), L3–4 slip, and the total lordosis angle were each measured before the operation and at the final follow-up. The Japanese Orthopaedic Association (JOA) score was determined before surgery and at the final follow-up to evaluate the clinical results.

Results

Among the 3 groups, no significant differences were detected in all clinical and demographic assessments before surgery. At 3 months after surgery, the JOA score of all groups improved significantly and showed no significant differences among the groups. At the final follow-up, Group C had a significantly (p < 0.05) lower JOA score than the other 2 groups. Moreover, the disc height and total lumbar lordosis in patients of Group C were significantly decreased compared with disc height and total lumbar lordosis in the other 2 groups. In contrast, disc angle, dynamic angular ROM, and listhesis were significantly higher in Group C than in the other 2 groups. Twenty-four patients showed signs of ASD after the operation (3 patients in Group A, 4 in B, and 17 in C). The number of patients in Group C showing ASD was significantly different from that in Groups A and B.

Conclusions

During follow-up for 6 years, a significantly higher number of patients with ASD were noted in the complete-laminectomy group. The number of reoperations for treating ASD was much higher in this patient group than in the patients undergoing facet joint resection and L4–5 fusion or semilaminectomy and fusion. Therefore, preserving the posterior complex as much as possible during surgery plays an important role in preventing ASD and in reducing the reoperation rate.
Mitigation Techniques to Reduce the Impact of Wind Turbines on Radar Services
Authors: De la Vega David , Matthews James , Norin Lars , Angulo Itziar
Published: June 2013

Radar services are occasionally affected by wind farms. This paper presents a comprehensive description of the effects that a wind farm may cause on the different radar services, and it compiles a review of the recent research results regarding the mitigation techniques to minimize this impact. Mitigation techniques to be applied at the wind farm and on the radar systems are described. The development of thorough impact studies before the wind farm is installed is presented as the best way to analyze in advance the potential for interference, and subsequently identify the possible solutions to allow the coexistence of wind farms and radar services.
Tetrodotoxin Blockade on Canine Cardiac L-Type Ca2+ Channels Depends on pH and Redox Potential
Authors: Hegyi Bence , Komáromi István , Kistamás Kornél , Ruzsnavszky Ferenc , Váczi Krisztina , Horváth Balázs , Magyar János , Bányász Tamás , Nánási Péter , Szentandrássy Norbert
Published: June 2013

Tetrodotoxin (TTX) is believed to be one of the most selective inhibitors of voltage-gated fast Na+ channels in excitable tissues. Recently, however, TTX has been shown to block L-type Ca2+ current (ICa) in canine cardiac cells. In the present study, the TTX-sensitivity of ICa was studied in isolated canine ventricular myocytes as a function of (1) channel phosphorylation, (2) extracellular pH and (3) the redox potential of the bathing medium using the whole cell voltage clamp technique. Fifty-five micromoles of TTX (IC50 value obtained under physiological conditions) caused 60% ± 2% inhibition of ICa in acidic (pH = 6.4), while only a 26% ± 2% block in alkaline (pH = 8.4) milieu. Similarly, the same concentration of TTX induced 62% ± 6% suppression of ICa in a reductant milieu (containing glutathione + ascorbic acid + dithiothreitol, 1 mM each), in contrast to the 31% ± 3% blockade obtained in the presence of a strong oxidant (100 μM H2O2). Phosphorylation of the channel protein (induced by 3 μM forskolin) failed to modify the inhibiting potency of TTX; an IC50 value of 50 ± 4 μM was found in forskolin. The results are in a good accordance with the predictions of our model, indicating that TTX binds, in fact, to the selectivity filter of cardiac L-type Ca channels.
Rhétorique et dialectique à propos de l'opposition φύσις - νόμος dans le Gorgias de Platon
Authors: Gaudin Claude
Published: June 2013

L'étude de l'opposition entre loi et nature, que l'on pourrait croire à première vue simplement rhétorique, apparaît en fait comme ayant un fondement dans la réalité. C'est la notion de droit qui révèle entre nature et loi une profonde opposition : le droit est toujours revendiqué, soit au nom de la loi, soit au nom de la nature. Mais il ne faut pas oublier, même quand on invoque le droit naturel, que, pour les hommes, la revendication du droit est revendication de la puissance. La leçon du Gorgias est précisément dans le fait de vouloir écarter cette ambiguïté. Jamais Socrate ne propose le concept de droit naturel : il reste soumis à la loi : c'est à la loi, au législateur de régler ces problèmes, qui sont ceux de la limitation de la puissance. La seule vraie puissance, c'est l'ordre transcendant.
Nicetas Eugenianos, un héritier du roman grec
Authors: Jouanno Corinne
Published: June 2013

Étude d'un roman composé à l'époque des Comnènes, l'ouvrage de Nicétas Eugénianos intitulé Drosilla et Chariclès.
SEISMIC RISK ASSESSMENT OF ALGERIAN BUILDINGS IN URBAN AREA
Authors: Baba Hamed Fatima Zohra , Rahal Driss Djaouad , Rahal Farid
Published: June 2013

The recent earthquakes in Algeria have caused significant human and economic losses. The frequent occurrence of damaging earthquakes clearly demonstrates the urgent need of study on seismic risk assessment methods of buildings to effectively reduce the impact of earthquake in Algerian cities.

This article contributes to the development and the application of a seismic risk method, appropriate to Algerian building specificities. This method considers five damage levels, defined accordingly to macroseismic intensity and the seismic quality of the building by means of a vulnerability index.

The present paper summarises the development of a tool to integrate seismic hazard and structural information and support the decision making process in identification of seismic risk. This tool could be used in the inspection of buildings and the optimal prioritisation of strengthening and preventives remedial actions that are necessary prior to a major earthquake event.
Duck HBV Dna Copy Numbers in Isolated Hepatocyte Nuclei Vary Dramatically and Decline during Entecavir Therapy
Authors: Shen Guojun , Fu Xihua , Zhou Bin , Yin Junhua , Zhong Chunxiu , Chen Jinjun , Hou Jinlin
Published: June 2013

Background

We aimed to develop a quantitative assay to measure duck HBV (DHBV) DNA in single hepatocyte nuclei from DHBV-infected animals and to observe intranuclear DHBV DNA kinetics undergoing entecavir (ETV) therapy.

Methods

DHBV DNA in isolated nuclei was amplified by quantitative real-time PCR. Liver tissues from chronically-infected ducks with or without ETV treatment were assessed. Cell cycle phases were defined with flow cytometry in single nuclei.

Results

We successfully established a quantitative assay to measure intranuclear DHBV DNA in single nuclei with high specificity, sensitivity and acceptable interassay variations. The intranuclear viral DNA copy numbers varied dramatically (2–204 copies/nuclei) in 11 ducks with active viral replication. Average intranuclear DHBV DNA copies from individual animals (7.57–57.67 copies/nuclei) significantly correlated with total intranuclear ( r s=0.955, P<0.001) and serum ( r s=0.745, P=0.008) viral DNA levels. The median intranuclear DHBV DNA copies in virus-positive nuclei were greater in gap 0/1 than those in gap 2/ mitosis and synthesis phases ( P<0.001). Median intranuclear viral DNA copies in virus-positive nuclei decreased from 21 to 6 ( P<0.001) under 14–19 weeks of ETV therapy. However, subsequently, further reductions were not achieved in four animals after extended 16 week treatment (6 versus 11, P=0.034).

Conclusions

Intranuclear DHBV DNA levels varied significantly, which could be partially attributed to effects of cell cycle phases, and could be decreased by ETV therapy.
Ethnography and Matija Majar
Authors: Fikfak Jurij
Published: June 2013

This article examines the research issues and personal problems faced by Matija Majar (a.k.a. Ziljski), one of the most important collectors of folk culture material in the mid-nineteenth century, his place among other researchers, his intentions, and, not least of all, the reception of his work among his contemporaries.
***
V članku avtor obravnava raziskovalne dileme Matija Majarja Ziljskega, enega najpomembnejših zbiralcev sestavin ljudske kulture sredi 19. stoletja, njegovo mesto med drugimi raziskovalci in njegove namere, nenazadnje tudi recepcijo njegovega dela pri sodobnikih.
The Slavic Idea and the Origin of Bulgarian Folklore Studies
Authors: Penchev Vladimir
Published: June 2013

This paper presents various concepts of Slavic ethnic and cultural identity and their influence on the formation of knowledge about the Slavs in ethnography and folklore studies, including the impact on the Bulgarian lands. The origin and the development of Bulgarian ethnology is analyzed in this context. The findings indicate that Bulgarian ethnology focuses almost entirely on studying Bulgarian folk culture beyond the paradigms of Slavic.
***
Avtor prestavlja različne koncepte slovanske etnične in kulturne identitete in njihov vpliv na oblikovanje znanja o Slovanih v etnografskih raziskavah; v tem kontekstu analizira tudi razvoj bolgarske etnologije. Analiza kaže, da so se bolgarski raziskovalci v 19. stoletju skoraj izključno posvečali le bolgarski ljudski kulturi, ne da bi se zgledovali po slovanski paradigmi.
Elements of Underwater Glider Performance and Stability
Authors: Fan Shuangshuang , Woolsey Craig
Published: June 2013

AbstractUnderwater gliders are winged autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) that can be deployed for months at a time and travel thousands of kilometers. As with any vehicle, different applications impose different mission requirements that impact vehicle design. We investigate
the relationship between a glider’s geometry and its performance and stability characteristics. Because our aim is to identify general trends rather than perform a detailed design optimization, we consider a generic glider shape: a cylindrical hull with trapezoidal wings. Geometric parameters
of interest include the fineness ratio of the hull, the wing position and shape, and the position and size of the vertical stabilizer. We describe the results of parametric studies for steady wings-level flight, both at minimum glide angle and at maximum horizontal speed, as well as for steady
turning flight. We describe the variation in required lung capacity and maximum lift-to-drag ratio corresponding to a given vehicle size and speed; we also consider range and endurance, given some initial supply of energy for propulsion. We investigate how the turning performance varies with
wing and vertical stabilizer configuration. To support this analysis, we consider the glider as an 8-degree-of-freedom multibody system (a rigid body with a cylindrically actuated internal moving mass) and develop approximate expressions for turning flight in terms of geometry and control
parameters. Moving from performance to stability and recognizing that a glider’s motion is well described in terms of small perturbations from wings-level equilibrium, we study stability as an eigenvalue problem for a rigid (actuators-fixed) flight vehicle. We present a number of root
locus plots in terms of various geometric parameters that illuminate the design tradeoff between stability and control authority.
The National Sports Safety in Secondary Schools Benchmark (N4SB) Study: Defining Athletic Training Practice Characteristics
Authors: McLeod Tamara C. Valovich , Bliven Kellie C. Huxel , Lam Kenneth C. , Bay R. Curtis , Valier Alison R. Snyder , Parsons John T.
Published: June 2013

Context:

Increased rates of sport participation and sport-related injury have led to greater emphasis on and attention to medical care of student-athletes in the secondary school setting. Access to athletic training services is seen as a critical factor for delivering adequate injury prevention and medical care to student-athletes. However, few data are available regarding practice characteristics of athletic trainers (ATs) in this setting.

Objective:

To characterize the practices of secondary school athletic trainers (ATs).

Design:

 Descriptive study.

Setting:

Web-based survey.

Patients or Other Participants:

A total of 17 558 ATs with current National Athletic Trainers' Association membership were identified for survey distribution. Of these, 4232 ATs indicated that they practiced in the secondary school setting, and 4045 completed some part of the survey.

Main Outcome Measure(s):

 A Web-based survey was used to obtain demographic information about ATs and their secondary schools and characteristics of athletic training practice. Descriptive data regarding the athletic trainer's personal characteristics, secondary school characteristics, and practice patterns are reported as percentages and frequencies.

Results:

Most respondents were in the early stages of their careers and relatively new to the secondary school practice setting. Nearly two-thirds (62.4%; n = 2522) of respondents had 10 or fewer years of experience as secondary school ATs, 52% (n = 2132) had been certified for 10 or fewer years, and 53.4% (n = 2164) had 10 or fewer years of experience in any practice setting. The majority of respondents (85%) worked in public schools with enrollment of 1000 to 1999 (35.5%) and with football (95.5%). More than half of respondents were employed directly by their school. Most respondents (50.6%) reported an athletic training budget of less than $4000. The majority of ATs performed evaluations (87.5%) on-site all of the time, with a smaller percentage providing treatments (73.3%) or rehabilitation (47.4%) services all of the time.

Conclusions:

This is the first study to describe secondary school athletic training that reflects national practice trends. To improve the quality of athletic training care and to support and improve current working conditions, the profession must examine how its members practice on a day-to-day basis.