bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sagittal realignment failures following pedicle subtraction osteotomy surgery: are we doing enough?
Authors: Schwab Frank J. , Patel Ashish , Shaffrey Christopher I. , Smith Justin S. , Farcy Jean-Pierre , Boachie-Adjei Oheneba , Hostin Richard A. , Hart Robert A. , Akbarnia Behrooz A. , Burton Douglas C. , Bess Shay , Lafage Virginie
Published: March 2012

Object

Pedicle subtraction osteotomy (PSO) is a surgical procedure that is frequently performed on patients with sagittal spinopelvic malalignment. Although it allows for substantial spinopelvic realignment, suboptimal realignment outcomes have been reported in up to 33% of patients. The authors' objective in the present study was to identify differences in radiographic profiles and surgical procedures between patients achieving successful versus failed spinopelvic realignment following PSO.

Methods

This study is a multicenter retrospective consecutive PSO case series. The authors evaluated 99 cases involving patients who underwent PSO for sagittal spinopelvic malalignment. Because precise cutoffs of acceptable residual postoperative sagittal vertical axis (SVA) values have not been well defined, comparisons were focused between patient groups with a postoperative SVA that could be clearly considered either a success or a failure. Only cases in which the patients had a postoperative SVA of less than 50 mm (successful PSO realignment) or more than 100 mm (failed PSO realignment) were included in the analysis. Radiographic measures and PSO parameters were compared between successful and failed PSO realignments.

Results

Seventy-nine patients met the inclusion criteria. Successful realignment was achieved in 61 patients (77%), while realignment failed in 18 (23%). Patients with failed realignment had larger preoperative SVA (mean 217.9 vs 106.7 mm, p < 0.01), larger pelvic tilt (mean 36.9° vs 30.7°, p < 0.01), larger pelvic incidence (mean 64.2° vs 53.7°, p < 0.01), and greater lumbar lordosis–pelvic incidence mismatch (−47.1° vs −30.9°, p < 0.01) compared with those in whom realignment was successful. Failed and successful realignments were similar regarding the vertebral level of the PSO, the median size of wedge resection 22.0° (interquartile range 16.5°−28.5°), and the numerical changes in pre- and postoperative spinopelvic parameters (p > 0.05).

Conclusions

Patients with failed PSO realignments had significantly larger preoperative spinopelvic deformity than patients in whom realignment was successful. Despite their apparent need for greater correction, the patients in the failed realignment group only received the same amount of correction as those in the successfully realigned patients. A single-level standard PSO may not achieve optimal outcome in patients with high preoperative spinopelvic sagittal malalignment. Patients with large spinopelvic deformities should receive larger osteotomies or additional corrective procedures beyond PSOs to avoid undercorrection.
Methane and Carbon Dioxide Flux from Rice Field: Contribution of Environmental Controls
Authors: Khan MB , Boult S , Duy P , Sharmin E , Baten MA
Published: March 2012

An investigation was carried out to quantify the present fluxes of CH4 and CO2 from rice soils and also to investigate the controls on gas production. Soil samples were collected from rice field at Mymensingh, Bangladesh to characterize the samples and for ex-situ measurement. Water content was determined by drying to constant weight at 50°C from rice soils. To determine the organic compound present in rice soil, normal pyrolysis was done. Gasclam® was used to measure the gas concentration from both ex-situ and in-situ measurement. Ex-situ measurement was conducted to measure the gas fluxes from the soil and which was validated by measuring concentration ratios in-situ. Moreover, in-situ measurement was carried out to investigate the influences of controls of environment on gas production and migration. In ex-situ measurement the production rate of CH4 at shallow and deep rice soil was 0.07 mole/tonne dry weight/day and 0.09 mole/tonne dry weight/day, respectively. On the otherhand, the production rate of CO2 in shallow and deep borehole was 0.23 mole/tonne dry weight/day and 0.29 mole/tonne dry weight/day, respectively. In in-situ measurement the average production rate of CH4 in shallow soil was 0.34 % while at deep soil it was very low. The CO2 concentration at shallow and deep soil was 6.37 % and 24.70 %, respectively. The ex-situ measurements of greenhouse gas fluxes are not reliable enough for rice soil as they are invalidated by comparison with concentration ratios of insitu measurements of greenhouse fluxes. There is no strong relationship between atmospheric pressure and patterns of greenhouse gas production in rice soils. Gas concentrations are remarkably constant despite varying pressure. However, the gas production and atmospheric pressure showed fluctuation during the measurement period. There was not enough organic matter in rice soil for detection organic analysis. However in future the organic matter can be extracted and analysed. Key Words: Methane and carbon dioxide flux; Rice field; Environmental controls; Organic analysisDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jesnr.v4i2.10123 J. Environ. Sci. & Natural Resources, 4(2): 1-6, 2011
A Study on Existing WATSAN Condition of Two Tea Gardens in
Authors: Chowdhury MAI , Hasan GMJ , Karim MA
Published: March 2012

In Bangladesh, the area around Sylhet is a traditional tea growing zone. Sylhet is not only plays an important role in the socio-economic development of Bangladesh but also important for ecological balance of the country. However, the water supply and sanitation (WATSAN) condition of tea garden area especially for workers is not environmentally sound. Moreover, there is not enough number of tube wells to get water for drinking purposes and even no provision of municipal water supply. The income of tea garden workers is poor around BDT 3000-4000 per month; 80% people were illiterate, 58% people were getting improper (shared among many workers) latrine facility. The drinking water was observed free from faecal coliform and arsenic contamination but the concentration of iron was high. This study reveals that both the tea garden people are deprived from proper latrine facility, water supply system, waste management and housing facilities. Sustainability of water supply and sanitation system must be considered for achieving good health for all and keep the environment healthy for smooth economic development.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jesnr.v4i2.10125  J. Environ. Sci. & Natural Resources, 4(2): 13-18, 2011
Effect of Foliar Application of Miyobi Growth Regulators on Morpho-Physiological Attributes and Yield in Chili
Authors: Rana MIK , Mondal MMA , Prodhan AKMA , Azam MG
Published: March 2012

Miyobi solution sprayed on chili plants at 30 days after transplanting. Application of Miyobi increased plant height, branch and leaf number, root length, root number, root weight, stem weight, total dry matter, chlorophyll content and photosynthesis in leaves, fruits plant-1 and fruit yield over control. Reverse trend was also observed in fruit size. Most of the morphological, biochemical, yield attributes were increased with increasing Miyobi concentration up to 0.8 mgL-1 followed by a decline. These results indicate that application of Miyobi @ 1.1 mgL-1 may be toxic for plant growth and development. Control, where only water was sprayed, showed the lowest of the above parameters. The higher fruit yield was recorded in 0.5 and 0.8 mgL-1 with being the highest in 0.5 mgL-1 (369.8 g plant-1) due to increased number of fruits plant-1. The lowest fruit yield was recorded in control (260.3 g plant-1) due to inferiority in yield attributes. However, application of Miyobi at 0.8 mgL-1 was more costly than 0.5 mgL-1. Therefore, Miyobi with 0.5 mgL-1 may be applied for increased fruit yield of chili for further recommendation few more field trials will require.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jesnr.v4i2.10158J. Environ. Sci. & Natural Resources, 4(2): 111-114, 2011
Study on Existing Status of Farm Environment and Awareness in a Farming Community of Dinajpur District
Authors: Arfin A , Baten MA , Nahar BS , Sattar MA
Published: March 2012

The main purpose of this study was to investigate the existing status and activities of the farmers in a farming community and also to evaluate the level of knowledge and awareness of the farmers on environmental degradation. From the findings of results and discussion it was observed that the illiteracy rate was higher (45%) in small farmers compared to medium (30%) and large (25%) farmers. The percentage of knowledge and awareness of the large farmers about soil organic matter depletion was about 80%. In case of the small farmers about 85% were unaware about soil organic matter depletion. Findings also indicated that 80% of the large farmers had awareness about the impact of soil organic matter depletion while 85% of the small farmers were not aware about the impact of soil organic matter depletion and 70% of the medium farmers had awareness. Findings also indicated that 25% of the large farmers, 15% of the medium farmers and 10% of the small farmers had knowledge about the application of excess chemical fertilizer and 50% of them did not response. Thirty five percent of the large farmers, 25% of the medium farmers and 10% of the small farmers had knowledge that due to the effect of pesticide diseases occurred on human health and 30% of them did not response. Twenty percent of the large farmers, 10% of the medium farmers and 5% of the small farmers had knowledge about the preservation techniques of soil quality and 65% of them did not response. It was also found that out of the four independent variables i.e. age, level of education, occupation and farm size had positive significant relationship with environmental awareness.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jesnr.v4i2.10166  J. Environ. Sci. & Natural Resources, 4(2): 151-154, 2011
Effect of Different Levels of Nitrogen and Sulphur with or without Biofertilizer on Yield Contributing Characters of Binamoog-6
Authors: Chowdhury ATMRA , Khan MMK , Islam MS , Biswas BK , Mahmud H
Published: March 2012

A field experiment was conducted at Bangladesh Institute of Nuclear Agriculture (BINA), Mymensingh, during the period from February to April, 2008 to evaluate the effect of N and S fertilizers with or without bio-fertilizer (Bradyrhizobium) on yield contributing characters of Binamoog-6. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with nine treatments and three replications. The treatments were T1-N0S0, T2-N0S5 T3-N0S10, T4-N15S0, T5-N15S5, T6-N15S10, T7-N30S0, T8- N30S5 and T9-N30S10 with or without bio-fertilizer (Bradyrhizobium). Data were recorded at 35 days after sowing (DAS), 49 DAS and at harvest. There were significant variations among the different treatments combination in terms of nodulation, growth, yield and quality. Result showed that Bradyrhizobium inoculation significantly increased the number of pod plant-1, number of seed pod-1, 1000-seed weight, stover yield, grain yield. The highest number of pod plant-1 (18.78), number of seed pod-1 (11.89), 1000- seed weight (43.40gm), stover yield (3.80 t ha-1) and grain yield (1.92 t ha-1) were recorded in IIN0S10 treatment. The result revealed that the inoculation of bio-fertilizer (Bradyrhizobium) significantly increased the yield by positively influencing the yield contributing characters of Binamoog-6.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jesnr.v4i2.10166J. Environ. Sci. & Natural Resources, 4(2): 151-154, 2011
A New Look at the Scottish Improvers
Authors: Smout T. C.
Published: March 2012

Scotland in 1700 was, in European terms, backward in the study of agronomy, but in the course of the eighteenth century the ‘improvers’ became a leading force in the study and practice of agricultural change. Nevertheless, over the course of the century they changed significantly: the early Honourable Society of Improvers, aristocrat-led and amateurish, gave way to a broader-based movement incorporating the rural middle-class, especially clergy and successful farmers, diffusing information through locally-based reports, magazines and societies. While unable to influence the course of agrarian change in the adverse demand circumstances before 1760, the improvers arguably had a profound impact on the response of the supply side between 1760 and 1820. The purpose of this paper is to re-examine the growth of literature on agricultural improvement in the long eighteenth century, to look at its changing character, to form a judgement as to whom the improvers were, and to assess their impact.
Powerful Words: Reading the Diary of a Ganda Priest
Authors: Wild-Wood Emma
Published: March 2012

This paper aims to explore the nexus of power, literacy and conversion in the work of indigenous evangelists by an analysis of the diaries of Apolo Kivebulaya, a CMS ‘church teacher’ and Ugandan Anglican priest. It uses excerpts from the diaries and oral testimony to understand the Christianity that Apolo and those who read with him were creating and to better comprehend the role of evangelists as cultural brokers mediating change. Two significant stories and an explanation of the nature of Apolo's diaries pave the way for three foci: the agency accorded to texts in the negotiation between literacy and orality at the point of conversion; the contested power of literacy in the context of evangelism; and the connection between reading and conversion in Uganda.
Verbal stem space and verb to noun conversion in French
Authors: Tribout Delphine
Published: March 2012

In this paper I present the verbal stem space in French and its use in lexeme formation. First, I present the stem spaces worked out by Bonami & Boyé (2002 ; 2003 ; 2005 ) for verbs and adjectives. Then I show that the verbal stem space needs to be extended with an extra slot in order to account for a number of lexeme-formation rules. Finally, I show that verb to noun conversion can select three different stems as input.
Scientific Evidence and Rationale for the Development of Curcumin and Resveratrol as Nutraceutricals for Joint Health
Authors: Mobasheri Ali , Henrotin Yves , Biesalski Hans-Konrad , Shakibaei Mehdi
Published: March 2012

Interleukin 1β (IL-1β) and tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) are key cytokines that drive the production of inflammatory mediators and matrix-degrading enzymes in osteoarthritis (OA). These proinflammatory cytokines bind to their respective cell surface receptors and activate inflammatory signaling pathways culminating with the activation of nuclear factor κB (NF-κB), a transcription factor that can be triggered by a host of stress-related stimuli including, excessive mechanical stress and ECM degradation products. Once activated, NF-κB regulates the expression of many cytokines, chemokines, adhesion molecules, inflammatory mediators, and several matrix-degrading enzymes. Therefore, proinflammatory cytokines, their cell surface receptors, NF-κB and downstream signaling pathways are therapeutic targets in OA. This paper critically reviews the recent literature and outlines the potential prophylactic properties of plant-derived phytochemicals such as curcumin and resveratrol for targeting NF-κB signaling and inflammation in OA to determine whether these phytochemicals can be used as functional foods.
Dehydration and Rehydration of Carbonated Fluor- and Hydroxylapatite
Authors: Yoder Claude , Pasteris Jill , Worcester Kimberly , Schermerhorn Demetra , Sternlieb Mitchell , Goldenberg Jennifer , Wilt Zachary
Published: March 2012

The recent definitive deuterium solid state NMR spectroscopic evidence for structural water in fluor- and hydroxylapatites has prompted our study of the conditions necessary for the removal and reincorporation of this important structural feature of apatites. Thermal gravimetric analysis of 20 synthetic carbonated calcium hydroxylapatite (CCaApOH) samples and nine carbonated calcium fluorapatite (CCaApF) samples has been used to determine the amount of structural and adsorbed water in each sample. No correlation between the weight percent and number of moles of structural water and the weight percent carbonate in CCaApOH and CCaApF has been found. In contrast, there appears to be a relationship between the amount of adsorbed water and the carbonate concentration in the fluorapatites prepared with a two hour digestion time, as well as in the hydroxylapatites prepared with one hour digestion periods, presumably due to the effect of carbonate on crystallite size. Structural water can be removed from the apatite lattice, primarily above 200 °C, but heating to over 550 °C is required for complete removal. This water can be partly reincorporated through an apparently kinetically-controlled process that is enhanced by an increase in time and/or temperature. We speculate that the incorporation of structural water occurs at the beginning of the formation of the apatite structure, approximately coincident with the incorporation of carbonate. We also speculate that water is both removed and reincorporated by proton transfers from water molecules to hydroxide ions.
Inhibition of Melanogenesis Versus Antioxidant Properties of Essential Oil Extracted from Leaves of Vitex negundo Linn and Chemical Composition Analysis by GC-MS
Authors: Huang Huey-Chun , Chang Tzu-Yun , Chang Long-Zen , Wang Hsiao-Fen , Yih Kuang-Hway , Hsieh Wan-Yu , Chang Tsong-Min
Published: March 2012

This study was aimed at investigating the antimelanogenic and antioxidative properties of the essential oil extracted from leaves of V. negundo Linn and the analysis of the chemical composition of this essential oil. The efficacy of the essential oil was evaluated spectrophotometrically, whereas the volatile chemical compounds in the essential oil were analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The results revealed that the essential oil effectively suppresses murine B16F10 tyrosinase activity and decreases the amount of melanin in a dose-dependent manner. Additionally, the essential oil significantly scavenged 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) (ABTS) radicals, and showed potent reducing power versus metal-ion chelating properties in a dose-dependent pattern. The chemical constituents in the essential oil are sesquiterpenes (44.41%), monoterpenes (19.25%), esters (14.77%), alcohols (8.53%), aromatic compound (5.90%), ketone (4.96%), ethers (0.4%) that together account for 98.22% of its chemical composition. It is predicted that the aromatic compound in the essential oil may contribute to its antioxidant activities. The results indicated that essential oil extracted from V. negundo Linn leaves decreased melanin production in B16F10 melanoma cells and showed potent antioxidant activities. The essential oil can thereby serve as an inhibitor of melanin synthesis and could also act as a natural antioxidant.
Enzymatic Activity Enhancement of Non-Covalent Modified Superoxide Dismutase and Molecular Docking Analysis
Authors: Qiu Yan-Zi , Huang Zong-Hua , Song Fa-Jun
Published: March 2012

The enzyme activity of superoxide dismutase was improved in the pyrogallol autoxidation system by about 27%, after interaction between hydroxypropyl-β-cyclo- dextrin and superoxide dismutase. Fluorescence spectrometry was used to study the interaction between hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin and superoxide dismutase at different temperatures. By doing this, it can be found that these interactions increase fluorescence sensitivity. In the meantime, the synchronous fluorescence intensity revealed the interaction sites to be close to the tryptophan (Trp) and tyrosine (Tyr) residues of superoxide dismutase. Furthermore, molecular docking was applied to explore the binding mode between the ligands and the receptor. This suggested that HP-β-CD interacted with the B ring, G ring and the O ring and revealed that the lysine (Lys) residues enter the nanocavity. It was concluded that the HP-β-CD caused specific conformational changes in SOD by non-covalent modification.
4-N,N-Dimethylaminopyridine Promoted Selective Oxidation of Methyl Aromatics with Molecular Oxygen
Authors: Zhang Zhan , Gao Jin , Wang Feng , Xu Jie
Published: March 2012

4-N,N-Dimethylaminopyridine (DMAP) as catalyst in combination with benzyl bromide was developed for the selective oxidation of methyl aromatics. DMAP exhibited higher catalytic activity than other pyridine analogues, such as 4-carboxypyridine, 4-cyanopyridine and pyridine. The sp3 hybrid carbon-hydrogen (C–H) bonds of different methyl aromatics were successfully oxygenated with molecular oxygen. The real catalyst is due to the formation of a pyridine onium salt from the bromide and DMAP. The onium salt was well characterized by NMR and the reaction mechanism was discussed.
A Simple Halide-to-Anion Exchange Method for Heteroaromatic Salts and Ionic Liquids
Authors: Alcalde Ermitas , Dinarès Immaculada , Ibáñez Anna , Mesquida Neus
Published: April 2012

A broad and simple method permitted halide ions in quaternary heteroaromatic and ammonium salts to be exchanged for a variety of anions using an anion exchange resin (A− form) in non-aqueous media. The anion loading of the AER (OH− form) was examined using two different anion sources, acids or ammonium salts, and changing the polarity of the solvents. The AER (A− form) method in organic solvents was then applied to several quaternary heteroaromatic salts and ILs, and the anion exchange proceeded in excellent to quantitative yields, concomitantly removing halide impurities. Relying on the hydrophobicity of the targeted ion pair for the counteranion swap, organic solvents with variable polarity were used, such as CH3OH, CH3CN and the dipolar nonhydroxylic solvent mixture CH3CN:CH2Cl2 (3:7) and the anion exchange was equally successful with both lipophilic cations and anions.
A Conceptual Model of Surface Reflectance Estimation for Satellite Remote Sensing Images Using in situ Reference Data
Authors: Chen Hsien-Wei , Cheng Ke-Sheng
Published: March 2012

For satellite remote sensing, radiances received at the sensor are not only affected by the atmosphere but also by the topographic properties of the terrain surface. As a result, atmospheric correction alone does not yield output images that truly reflect terrain surface properties, namely surface reflectance (bidirectional reflectance factor, BRF) of objects on the earth surface. Following the concept of the radiometric control area (RCA)-based path radiance estimation method, we herein propose a statistical approach for surface reflectance estimation utilizing DEM data and surface reflectance of selected radiometric control areas. An algorithm for identification of shaded samples and a shape factor model were also developed in this study. The proposed RCA-based surface reflectance estimation method is capable of achieving good reflectance estimates in a region where elevation varies from 0 to approximately 600 m above the mean sea level. However, further study is recommended in order to extend the application of the proposed method to areas with substantial terrain variation.
An International Comparison of Individual Tree Detection and Extraction Using Airborne Laser Scanning
Authors: Kaartinen Harri , Hyyppä Juha , Yu Xiaowei , Vastaranta Mikko , Hyyppä Hannu , Kukko Antero , Holopainen Markus , Heipke Christian , Hirschmugl Manuela , Morsdorf Felix , Næsset Erik , Pitkänen Juho , Popescu Sorin , Solberg Svein , Wolf Bernd Michael , Wu Jee-Cheng
Published: March 2012

The objective of the “Tree Extraction” project organized by EuroSDR (European Spatial data Research) and ISPRS (International Society of Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing) was to evaluate the quality, accuracy, and feasibility of automatic tree extraction methods, mainly based on laser scanner data. In the final report of the project, Kaartinen and Hyyppä (2008) reported a high variation in the quality of the published methods under boreal forest conditions and with varying laser point densities. This paper summarizes the findings beyond the final report after analyzing the results obtained in different tree height classes. Omission/Commission statistics as well as neighborhood relations are taken into account. Additionally, four automatic tree detection and extraction techniques were added to the test. Several methods in this experiment were superior to manual processing in the dominant, co-dominant and suppressed tree storeys. In general, as expected, the taller the tree, the better the location accuracy. The accuracy of tree height, after removing gross errors, was better than 0.5 m in all tree height classes with the best methods investigated in this experiment. For forest inventory, minimum curvature-based tree detection accompanied by point cloud-based cluster detection for suppressed trees is a solution that deserves attention in the future.
2:1 Multiplexing Function in a Simple Molecular System
Authors: Xu Sha , Hao Yu-Xin , Sun Wei , Fang Chen-Jie , Lu Xing , Li Min-Na , Zhao Ming , Peng Shi-Qi , Yan Chun-Hua
Published: March 2012

1-[(Anthracen-9-yl)methylene] thiosemicarbazide shows weak fluorescence due to a photo-induced electron transfer (PET) process from the thiosemicarbazide moiety to the excited anthracene. The anthracene emission can be recovered via protonation of the amine as the protonated aminomethylene as an electron-withdrawing group that suppresses the PET process. Similarly, chelation between the ligand and the metal ions can also suppress the PET process and results in a fluorescence enhancement (CHEF). When solvents are introduced as the third control, a molecular 2:1 multiplexer is constructed to report selectively the inputs. Therefore, a molecular 2:1 multiplexer is realized in a simple molecular system.
A Case Study of Recreational Golfers' Interest in the 2008 Ryder Cup
Authors: Harris John , Lee Sangkwon , Lyberger Mark
Published: April 2012

The ryder Cup is the premier team competition in golf and is often described as the third biggest sports event in the world. Despite this, the match has received scant attention from scholars in event management and other associated disciplines. This case study examines recreational
golfers' interest in the ryder Cup and attempts to discover what they perceive to be the defining characteristics of the match, in order to develop a better understanding of the positioning of the event. while there has been an increase in research focusing on major sporting events, little
work has explored the ryder Cup and less still has looked at the views of recreational participants in a sport. The research identified that respondents generally identified positive characteristics with the match but also found that the ryder Cup was of less interest to them than a range
of other major golf and sport events. The limitations of the case study and an outline of further research in this area is also discussed.
Management Attitudes Towards Event Impacts in the Tourist Destination: the Case of Istria, Croatia
Authors: Trošt Klara , Milohnić Ines
Published: April 2012

As the understanding of the importance of monitoring of social and environmental event impacts grows, together with the economic impacts, event management stakeholders face the challenge of greater responsibility in strategic decision making, as well as in achieving sustainable event
results. The purpose of this article is to determine the attitudes of the local tourist organizations' managers in the County of Istria towards the importance of monitoring of the economic, social, and environmental impacts of events. The County of Istria is the most developed tourist region
in Croatia. Events have only recently been recognized in Croatia as an interesting phenomenon, both in a scientific and a practical sense. For the needs of the research, the data were gathered directly from the managers of 27 tourist organizations, using the interview method. The research
results indicate that art events, which are limited to the summer months and geographically directed to the coastal destinations, make up the most significant part in the event structure. Environmental and social events in tourist destinations have been identified as the most significant,
followed by the economic impacts. Equally, the research revealed a lack of managerial skills in the event evaluation aspects.
Azobenzene dye-coupled quadruply hydrogen-bonding modules as colorimetric indicators for supramolecular interactions
Authors: Zhang Yagang , Zimmerman Steven C
Published: April 2012

The facile coupling of azobenzene dyes to the quadruply hydrogen-bonding modules 2,7-diamido-1,8-naphthyridine (DAN) and 7-deazaguanine urea (DeUG) is described. The coupling of azobenzene dye 2 to mono-amido DAN units 4, 7, and 9 was effected by classic 4-(dimethylamino)pyridine (DMAP)-catalyzed peptide synthesis with N-(3-dimethylaminopropyl)-N’-ethyl carbodiimide hydrochloride (EDC) as activating agent, affording the respective amide products 5, 8, and 10 in 60–71% yield. The amide linkage was formed through either the aliphatic or aromatic ester group of 2, allowing both the flexibility and absorption maximum to be tuned. Azobenzene dye 1 was coupled to the DeUG unit 11 by Steglich esterification to afford the product amide 12 in 35% yield. Alternatively, azobenzene dye 16 underwent a room-temperature copper-catalyzed azide–alkyne Huisgen cycloaddition with DeUG alkyne 17 to give triazole 18 in 71% yield. Azobenzene coupled DAN modules 5, 8, and 10 are bright orange–red in color, and azobenzene coupled DeUG modules 12 and 18 are orange–yellow in color. Azobenzene coupled DAN and DeUG modules were successfully used as colorimetric indicators for specific DAN–DeUG and DAN–UPy (2-ureido-4(1H)-pyrimidone) quadruply hydrogen-bonding interactions.
AN INTEGRATED METHOD OF IDENTIFYING AND RANKING DANGER SPOTS FOR PEDESTRIANS ON MICROLOCATION
Authors: Pešić Dalibor , Vujanić Milan , Lipovac Krsto , Antić Boris
Published: March 2012

In traffic safety, various methods, procedures and techniques are adapted for traffic safety needs. Diverse methods lead to a different degree of exactness, accuracy and precision. The selection of research methods depends primarily on the research objective. Research methods most frequently applied for traffic safety include a statistical method, experiment, observation, tests, a questionnaire and interview, a comparison and analogy, etc. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages; however, a well devised combination of several methods and the reliability of research results can be increased. The problem of danger for pedestrians, as vulnerable road users, is constantly expressed and present in all regions. Therefore, special attention should be paid to pedestrian safety. To determine danger spots for pedestrians, the analyses of traffic accidents are most frequently used, which is the so called reactive approach to traffic safety improvement. Apart from the reactive approach, for the purpose of preventing traffic accidents in the future, it is necessary to combine some of the methods that can proactively indicate potential danger spots for pedestrians. This paper shows the method of identifying and ranking danger spots for pedestrians on micro locations, which incorporates the analysis of traffic accidents, the examination of the subjective attitudes of participants in traffic and the use of a conflict technique. Along with the so called ‘overlapping’ danger spots detected in the analysis of traffic accidents, danger spots detected based on the analysis of the subjective attitudes of pedestrians and drivers and danger spots detected in the conflict technique, a map of the so called objective and subjective danger spots is obtained. By eliminating all such identified danger spots, black spots as well as potential traffic accidents are removed. The method presented in this paper can be a very useful tool for decision-makers, for improving pedestrian safety on a micro location and for allocating funds.
Keys to Recognizing the Levels of Critical Audiovisual Reading in Children
Authors: Sánchez-Carrero Jacqueline , Sandoval-Romero Yamile
Published: April 2012

Based on the results of several projects carried out with children and adolescents, we can state that knowledge of production and broadcasting aids the acquisition of critical media skills. This article combines three media education experiences in Venezuela, Colombia and Spain driven by a critical reception approach. It presents leading indicators for determining the level of critical audiovisual reading in children aged 8-12 extracted from intervention processes through workshops on media literacy. The groups had been instructed on the audiovisual universe, which allowed them to analyze, deconstruct and recreate audiovisual content. Firstly, this article refers to the evolving concept of media education. Secondly, the common experiences in the three countries are described, with special attention to the influence of indicators that gauge the level of critical reading. Finally, we reflect on the need for media education in the era of multi-literacy. It is unusual to find studies that reveal the keys to assessing the levels of critical consumption of digital media content in children, and this is essential for determining the level of children’s understanding before and after training processes in media education.

Diversos estudios con niños y adolescentes han demostrado que a mayor conocimiento del mundo de la producción y transmisión de mensajes audiovisuales, mayor capacidad adquieren para formarse un criterio propio ante la pantalla. En este artículo se aúnan tres experiencias de educación mediática realizadas en Venezuela, Colombia y España, desde el enfoque de la recepción crítica. Se proporcionan los indicadores que llevan a determinar los niveles de lectura crítica audiovisual en niños de entre 8 y 12 años, construidos a partir de procesos de intervención mediante talleres de alfabetización mediática. Los grupos han sido instruidos acerca del universo audiovisual, dándoles a conocer cómo se gestan los contenidos audiovisuales y el modo de analizarlos, desestructurarlos y recrearlos. Primero, se hace referencia al concepto en evolución de educación mediática. Después, se describen las experiencias comunes en los tres países para luego incidir en los indicadores que permiten medir el nivel de lectura crítica. Por último, se reflexiona sobre la necesidad de la educación mediática en la era de la multialfabetización. No es muy frecuente encontrar estudios que revelen las claves para reconocer qué grado de criticidad tiene un niño cuando visiona los contenidos de los distintos medios digitales. Es un tema fundamental pues permite saber con qué nivel de comprensión cuenta y cuál adquiere después de un proceso de formación en educación mediática.
Color in Child Espots: Chromatic Prevalence and Relation with the Brand Logo
Authors: Martínez-Martínez Luis Enrique , Monserrat-Gauchi Juan , Tur--Viñes Victoria
Published: April 2012

Color is a crucial element in achieving effective and efficient communication. This article presents an analysis of the color elements used in TV ads aimed at children broadcast during November 2009 in Spain by the Disney Channel children’s network which, according to Kantar Media, is the audience leader in open-to-air television programing. The convenience sample included the group of advertisers that Infoadex classifies as part of the «sports and leisure» sector, which includes products and services traditionally aimed at children, such as toys and leisure parks, as well as self-promotion ads for other television networks. The analysis quantifies the use of color in ads aimed at children and concludes that brands use color in very different ways. This study also examines the relationship between the color combinations chosen by advertisers in their ads and logos, confirming that the use of color combinations in ads and logos is arbitrary. Most advertisers who target children prefer to apply a range of colors to create contrast and highlight the product and its features and benefits, instead of strengthening the brand’s corporate image. The study highlights the randomness in decision-making on the use of color.

El color es un elemento básico para la eficacia y la eficiencia comunicativa. Se realiza un análisis de contenido de los elementos de color en los espots dirigidos a niños emitidos en la cadena temática infantil Disney Channel, líder de audiencia de la televisión en abierto según Kantar Media, durante el mes de noviembre de 2009 en España. La selección de la muestra de conveniencia agrupó a los anunciantes considerados por Infoadex dentro del sector «deportes y tiempo libre» que comprende los productos y servicios tradicionalmente considerados infantiles, como juguetes y parques de ocio, además de la autopromoción de otras cadenas de televisión. El análisis cuantifica la prevalencia del uso del color en los anuncios televisivos dirigidos a la infancia y concluye que las marcas gestionan el color de forma muy diferenciada. Por otro lado, se estudia la relación entre la prevalencia cromática en el espot y en el logotipo del mismo anunciante. En este sentido, se comprueba un alto porcentaje de incoherencia en la prevalencia cromática en ambos formatos. La mayoría de los anunciantes del mercado infantil prefieren utilizar el color para provocar el contraste y resaltar el producto, sus características o bondades en detrimento de la coherencia en la imagen corporativa de la marca. El estudio realizado pone de manifiesto cierta arbitrariedad en la toma de decisiones sobre el color.
DESIGN GUIDELINES FOR THE UTILIZATION OF TILTED FAÇADES TO ENHANCE BUILDING ENERGY PERFORMANCE
Authors: Varodompun Jatuwat , Asavapitayanont Atiwat
Published: March 2012

Intense solar radiation is one of the key design problems for buildings in tropical regions. The recommended practice is to install shading devices, particularly to protect glazing systems. However, many design factors do not allow shading devices to be implemented in all cases; shading devices may not be appropriate to particular design concepts. To serve the designers' preference, alternative solutions should be provided. This study aims at investigating the performance of a new design alternative—the tilted façade. By simply tilting a wall downward, solar radiation can be minimized in the same way as a shading device. The state-of-the-art energy software, eQUEST, was used to simulate energy performance of buildings in Bangkok, Thailand. At the same time, simulated results were confirmed by using experimental data monitoring from specially customized test cells. A wide range of WWR (Window to Wall Ratio) was tested against different façade orientations, glazing types, and shading devices with similar projected lengths. Tilted façades can be most effective for all orientations except for the north. Also, tilted façades allow designers to use more glass without any additional energy consumption. Based on these results, a set of design guidelines for using tilted facades are proposed. Designers can not only utilize these guidelines to effectively adjust façade angle but also optimize the glazing size for the best energy performance.
Rhinovirus-Induced MMP-9 Expression Is Dependent on Fra-1, Which Is Modulated by Formoterol and Dexamethasone
Authors: Tacon Claire E. , Newton Robert , Proud David , Leigh Richard
Published: March 2012

Matrix metalloproteinase-9 is implicated in airway inflammation and airway remodeling in asthma. We have previously confirmed that human rhinovirus-16 (HRV-16) infection increases MMP-9 expression both in vivo and in vitro. However, the role of the AP-1 sites within the MMP-9 promoter and the effect of commonly used asthma pharmacotherapies in modulating human rhinovirus (HRV)-induced MMP-9 production have not yet been elucidated. Experiments were performed in vitro in the human bronchial epithelial (HBE) cell line BEAS-2B and in primary HBE cells obtained from non-transplanted lungs. Using site-directed mutagenesis approaches, AP-1 sites were found to be necessary for HRV-induced MMP-9 promoter drive. EMSAs and supershift assays identified complexes consisting of Fos-related Ag-1 (Fra-1) in addition to other AP-1 subunits. Small interfering RNA approaches indicated that Fra-1 was induced upon HRV-16 infection in BEAS-2B cells and was necessary for MMP-9 expression in both BEAS-2B and primary HBE cells. Inhibition of MEK1/2 activity using PD98059 and U0126 reduced Fra-1 expression, DNA binding, MMP-9 promoter drive, and MMP-9 protein production. The long-acting β2-agonist formoterol and the glucocorticoid dexamethasone significantly reduced HRV-induced ERK phosphorylation, Fra-1, and MMP-9 expression in BEAS-2B cells. These data indicate that HRV-induced activation of the MEK/ERK MAPK pathway and Fra-1 expression are necessary for the upregulation of MMP-9 and can be modulated by two distinct but commonly used asthma pharmacotherapies. Together, these results offer insights into the mechanisms by which long-acting β2-agonists and glucocorticoids might reduce HRV-related asthma exacerbations.
CD47high Expression on CD4 Effectors Identifies Functional Long-Lived Memory T Cell Progenitors
Authors: Van Vu Quang , Raymond Marianne , Baba Nobuyasu , Rubio Manuel , Wakahara Keiko , Susin Santos A. , Sarfati Marika
Published: March 2012

T cell memory is the hallmark of adaptive immunity. Central questions are to determine which cells among proliferating effector T cells will live beyond the crash of the immune response (IR) and develop into functional memory T cells. CD47, considered as a marker of self, is implicated in cell death, cell elimination, and in the inflammatory response. We report in this article that CD47 expression was transiently regulated on Ag-specific CD4 T cells, that is, from CD47high to CD47low to CD47high, during the course of the in vivo IR. Specifically, CD47high status marked central memory CD4 T cell precursors at an early time point of the IR. By contrast, cytokine production was a functional attribute restricted to CD47high, but not CD47low, polyclonal effector CD4 T cells during recall responses in an experimental model of chronic airway inflammatory disease. Passive transfer of CD47high, but not CD47low, CD4 T cells in nonlymphopenic naive mice generated long-lived memory T cells capable of anamnestic responses. We conclude that CD47high status on CD4 T cells identifies functional long-lived memory T cell progenitors.
Optimal Control Problem of Positive Solutions to Second Order Impulsive Differential Equations
Authors: Zhang Lingling , Yamazaki Noriaki , Zhai Chengbo
Published: March 2012

In this paper, we consider optimal control problem of second order impulsive differential equations. We show the existence and uniqueness of positive solutions to our problem for each given control functions. Also, we consider the control problem of positive solutions to our equations. Then, we prove the existence of an optimal control that minimizes the nonlinear cost functional. Moreover we give an example of the main results.
Inferred gas hydrate and permafrost stability history models linked to climate change in the Beaufort-Mackenzie Basin, Arctic Canada
Authors: Majorowicz J. , Safanda J. , Osadetz K.
Published: March 2012

Abstract. Atmospheric methane from episodic gas hydrate (GH) destabilization, the "clathrate gun" hypothesis, is proposed to affect past climates, possibly since the Phanerozoic began or earlier. In the terrestrial Beaufort-Mackenzie Basin (BMB), GHs occur commonly below thick ice-bearing permafrost (IBP), but they are rare within it. Two end-member GH models, where gas is either trapped conventionally (Case 1) or where it is trapped dynamically by GH formation (Case 2), were simulated using profile (1-D) models and a 14 Myr ground surface temperature (GST) history based on marine isotopic data, adjusted to the study setting, constrained by deep heat flow, sedimentary succession conductivity, and observed IBP and Type I GH contacts in Mallik wells. Models consider latent heat effects throughout the IBP and GH intervals. Case 1 GHs formed at ~0.9 km depth only ~1 Myr ago by in situ transformation of conventionally trapped natural gas. Case 2 GHs begin to form at ~290–300 m ~6 Myr ago in the absence of lithological migration barriers. During glacial intervals Case 2 GH layers expand both downward and upward as the permafrost grows downward through and intercalated with GHs. The distinctive model results suggest that most BMB GHs resemble Case 1 models, based on the observed distinct and separate occurrences of GHs and IBP and the lack of observed GH intercalations in IBP. Case 2 GHs formed >255 m, below a persistent ice-filled permafrost layer that is as effective a seal to upward methane migration as are Case 1 lithological seals. All models respond to GST variations, but in a delayed and muted manner such that GH layers continue to grow even as the GST begins to increase. The models show that the GH stability zone history is buffered strongly by IBP during the interglacials. Thick IBP and GHs could have persisted since ~1.0 Myr ago and ~4.0 Myr ago for Cases 1 and 2, respectively. Offshore BMB IBP and GHs formed terrestrially during Pleistocene sea level low stands. Where IBP is sufficiently thick, both IBP and GHs persist even where inundated by a Holocene sea level rise and both are also expected to persist into the next glacial even if atmospheric CO2 doubles. We do not address the "clathrate gun" hypothesis directly, but our models show that sub-IBP GHs respond to, rather than cause GST changes, due to both how GST changes propagates with depth and latent heat effects. Models show that many thick GH accumulations are prevented from contributing methane to the atmosphere, because they are almost certainly trapped below either ice-filled IBP or lithological barriers. Where permafrost is sufficiently thick, combinations of geological structure, thermal processes and material properties make sub-IBP GHs unlikely sources for significant atmospheric methane fluxes. Our sub-IBP GH model histories suggest that similar models applied to other GH settings could improve the understanding of GHs and their potential to affect climate.
Distribution of petrophysical properties for sandy-clayey reservoirs by fractal interpolation
Authors: Lozada-Zumaeta M. , Arizabalo R. D. , Ronquillo-Jarillo G. , Coconi-Morales E. , Rivera-Recillas D. , Castrejón-Vácio F.
Published: April 2012

Abstract. The sandy-clayey hydrocarbon reservoirs of the Upper Paleocene and Lower Eocene located to the north of Veracruz State, Mexico, present highly complex geological and petrophysical characteristics. These reservoirs, which consist of sandstone and shale bodies within a depth interval ranging from 500 to 2000 m, were characterized statistically by means of fractal modeling and geostatistical tools. For 14 wells within an area of study of approximately 6 km2, various geophysical well logs were initially edited and further analyzed to establish a correlation between logs and core data. The fractal modeling based on the R/S (rescaled range) methodology and the interpolation method by successive random additions were used to generate pseudo-well logs between observed wells. The application of geostatistical tools, sequential Gaussian simulation and exponential model variograms contributed to estimate the spatial distribution of petrophysical properties such as effective porosity (PHIE), permeability (K) and shale volume (VSH). From the analysis and correlation of the information generated in the present study, it can be said, from a general point of view, that the results not only are correlated with already reported information but also provide significant characterization elements that would be hardly obtained by means of conventional techniques.