bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
COMPARISON OF THE IMAGE QUALITY OF A HIGH‐RESOLUTION SCREEN–FILM SYSTEM AND A DIGITAL FLAT PANEL DETECTOR SYSTEM IN AVIAN RADIOGRAPHY
Authors: BOCHMANN MONIKA , LUDEWIG EBERHARD , KRAUTWALD‐JUNGHANNS MARIA‐ELISABETH , PEES MICHAEL
Published: February 2011

A conventional high‐resolution screen–film system was compared with a digital detector system. A total of 20 birds (14 pigeons and six psittacine birds) with an average body mass of 533 g were examined in dorsoventral as well as lateral projections. Digital radiographs were acquired with the same mAs as well as half the mAs used for the conventional radiographs. Three criteria and one overall assessment were defined for each of four anatomic regions and assessed by five veterinarians using a score system. Comparison of the ratings was done by visual grading analysis. For the majority of criteria, there was no significant difference regarding image quality between the digital and screen–film projections. However, for certain criteria the quality of the digital images was significantly superior. Using the same mAs as for the conventional radiographs, the humeral joint surfaces and the honeycomb structure of the lung were assessed as superior with the digital imaging system. The tracheal rings and the delineation of the trachea from the surrounding tissue were also superior with the digital system. Assessment of the trabecular structure of the humerus was superior when the full mAs was used compared with the reduced mAs. In conclusion the digital technique is equal or superior to the conventional screen–film high‐resolution system for pet birds of a medium size. With some limitations, a dose reduction is possible with the digital system.
Physicochemical and microbiological quality of harvested rainwater from an agricultural installation in Ireland
Authors: O'Hogain S. , McCarton L. , McIntyre N. , Pender J. , Reid A.
Published: February 2011

Dublin Institute of Technology was commissioned in 2005 by the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government in Ireland to assess the feasibility of utilising rainwater to replace treated mains water for nonpotable uses. The project involved the design, installation, commissioning and monitoring of rainwater harvesting on a farm. Two monitoring programmes, Regime 1 and Regime 2, examined the physicochemical and microbiological quality of the harvested rainwater. Samples were taken monthly and tested. Regime 1 analysis showed that the microbiological quality of the rainwater from the site did not comply with the requirements of the European Communities Quality of Bathing Water Regulations, while the physicochemical quality complied with both Bathing and Drinking Water Standards with the exception of ammonia and lead. Regime 2 results showed a significant improvement and were compliant with the European Communities Quality of Bathing Water Regulations and showed near compliance with the European Communities Drinking Water Regulation.
Wound healing after mulesing and other options for controlling breech flystrike in Merino lambs: quantitative and semiquantitative analysis of wound healing and wound bed contraction
Authors: Lepherd ML , Canfield PJ , Hunt GB , Thomson PC , Bosward KL
Published: February 2011

Background  A two‐part study examined wound healing and contraction occurring after mulesing and two alternative methods of preventing breech flystrike in sheep.

Objective  To quantify wound healing using a scoring system and to assess the contractility of the wound bed of the breech after mulesing, cetrimide‐intradermal treatment and application of clips.

Method  The study group of 30 mulesed, 30 cetrimide‐intradermal treated, 30 control and 10 clip‐treated sheep were humanely killed at six time points from 3 to 47 days after each treatment. Wound healing post treatment was assessed using a scoring system, and contractility was assessed by the quantification of myofibroblast expression. Statistical analyses allowed comparisons of temporal wound healing and contraction between treatment groups.

Results  Mulesing wounds healed faster in the first 11 days, but by 19 days wound healing was similar between the mulesing and cetrimide‐intradermal groups. By 32 days, all three treatment groups had similar wound healing scores. There was greater myofibroblast expression in the mulesing group in the first 11 days after treatment, but by 19 days expression was similar in both the mulesing and cetrimide‐intradermal groups. The clip group had significantly less myofibroblast expression from 32 days after treatment.

Conclusion  Wound healing is initially most rapid after mulesing, but there are similar wound healing scores in the mulesing and cetrimide‐intradermal treatment groups by 19 days. Both mulesing and the cetrimide‐intradermal treatment induce a similar amount of wound bed contraction, with less contraction observed after application of clips.
Avian trichomoniasis: a study of lesions and relative prevalence in a variety of captive and free‐living bird species as seen in an Australian avian practice
Authors: Park FJ
Published: February 2011

Background  Studies of avian trichomoniasis in the literature are limited to some extent, often being confined to a single bird species or group of species within a bird Order. Some incidence studies have been reported for free‐living birds, and occasionally for captive birds. Very few reports describe the prevalence and types of lesions seen for a wide range of bird species, especially from a clinical perspective.

Methods  Retrospective study of avian practice records from a 10‐year period. Emphasis on the types of presentations and relative prevalence of trichomoniasis in a variety of captive and free‐living bird species encountered in Australian avian practice.

Results  The occurrence of trichomoniasis in several novel species (lorikeets, corvids and a cuckoo species), plus its distinctive presentation in southern boobook owls (Ninox boobook), is documented.

Conclusion  Trichomoniasis should be a differential diagnosis for birds presenting with regurgitation or upper gastrointestinal abscesses, even if motile trichomonads are not found in wet preparations from crop washes or lesions.
Use of BAER to identify loss of auditory function in older horses
Authors: Wilson WJ , Mills PC , Dzulkarnain AA
Published: February 2011

Objective To use the brainstem auditory evoked response (BAER) to test the hypothesis that auditory function could be worse in older horses than in younger horses.

Procedure BAER waveforms in response to click stimuli were measured in five younger horses (5–8 years) and four older horses (17–22 years).

Results Compared with the younger horses, the older horses showed significantly (P < 0.02) worse BAER thresholds and significantly (P < 0.02) worse BAER wave V amplitudes to the 90 decibels above normal hearing level stimulus. These results were consistent with partial deafness in the older horse group.

Conclusion BAER assessment can be used to identify partial deafness in older horses. Such horses should be managed appropriately, with particular care taken in noisy environments where hearing loss could put the horse and/or its owner at risk of harm.
Impact of Pollution, Climate, and Sociodemographic Factors on Spatiotemporal Dynamics of Seasonal Respiratory Viruses
Authors: Sloan Chantel , Moore Martin L. , Hartert Tina
Published: February 2011

Seasonal viruses present a major cause of morbidity and mortality in temperate climates. Through major pandemics and smaller annual epidemics, viruses such as influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and human rhinovirus (HRV) result in lost school and work days for most that are infected and more serious complications for the immunocompromised. The reasons for these viruses showing strict seasonality include but are not limited to the influence of cold weather and humidity on virus particles, human physiology, and human behavior. The relative importance of each is dependent on what geographic scale is being explored as well as the individual region and time period. Theoretical mathematics has also revealed that climatic changes are likely not the only reasons for strong seasonal cycles, but these are also based in periodic resonance with the natural cycles of immunity and antigenic variance, as well as nationwide synchrony through transportation networks. Investigations of seasonality will aid in understanding disease transmission, and thereby effective prevention strategies. The authors present a review of the literature on seasonal viruses, their annual diffusion through populations, and factors that reduce or enhance their seasonal spread. They also offer suggestions for targeted interventions to reduce the disease burden from seasonal viruses. Clin Trans Sci 2011; Volume 4: 48–54
A CTSA‐Sponsored Program for Clinical Research Coordination: Networking, Education, and Mentoring
Authors: Brandt Debra S. , Bosch Michael , Bayless Meg , Sinkey Christine A. , Bodeker Kellie , Sprenger Kimberly , Johnson Karen , Gilmore Julie M. E.
Published: February 2011

Upon receipt of the National Institutes of Health Clinical and Translational Science Award, the University of Iowa’s Institute for Clinical and Translational Science committed to develop an infrastructure for research professionals. Three goals were established: (1) identification of research professionals within the University of Iowa, (2) development of an educational series, including orientation and continuing education, and (3) development of a mentoring system. The purpose of this paper is to describe the process of development, initiation, and outcomes of a successful networking, educational, and mentoring system crafted for research professionals at the University of Iowa. Clin Trans Sci 2011; Volume 4: 42–47
Early Transition Stages and Heterogeneity in Criminal Careers among Young Offenders*
Authors: Arnold Bruce L. , Kay Fiona M.
Published: February 2011

Dans cet article, nous examinons différents modèles de rapports avec les forces policières parmi des sous‐populations hétérogènes de jeunes, dans les premiers stades de transition de leur carrière criminelle. Nous croyons que la recherche axée sur l'hétérogénéité et sur les premiers stades de la transition vers la criminalité peut nous renseigner sur les éléments de la dynamique comportementale ‐ jusqu'ici ignorés ‐ dans l'étude de l'apparition d'un comportement criminel et de sa persistance. À partir de données policières informatisées provenant d'une grande ville de l'ouest du Canada, nous utilisons certains modèles de survie basés sur des événements pour dégager des modèles d'apparition et de persistance de comportements criminels sur une période de six mois, dans les premiers rapports avec la police. Les résultats démontrent des modifications importantes à court terme dans le comportement criminel de sousgroupes de jeunes de niveaux différents. Certains semblent avoir un comportement criminel ponctuel, qu'ils abandonnent par la suite, tandis que d'autres continuent de se comporter en criminels, en augmentant la fréquence et le taux d'infractions. Toutefois, certains modèles hétérogènes existent au sein de ces sous‐groupes de jeunes délin quants dans les premières phases de développement de la criminalité.

We investigate distinctive patterns of police contacts among heterogeneous subpopulations of youths in the early transition stages of their criminal careers. We argue that research focussing upon heterogeneity and the initial transition stages of criminality can provide insights into behavioural dynamics previously overlooked in the study of the onset and development of criminal careers. Using computerized police archival data from a large western Canadian city, we employ event history survival models to estimate patterns of onset and persistence for delinquent careers over six‐month intervals in the early stages of police contact. Our results provide strong evidence of meaningful short‐term change in offending among multiple levels of youth subgroups. Some youths appear to offend only briefly and then desist, while others continue offending and at a higher rate. However, there also appear to be patterns of heterogeneity within as well as between these subgroups of young offenders during the early stages of criminal careers.
Cirsium sivasicum sp. nov. and C. peshmenianum sp. nov. (Asteraceae) and their allies from Turkey
Authors: Yıldız Bayram , Arabacı Turan , Dirmenci Tuncay , Çelenk Sevcan
Published: February 2011

Two new species of Cirsium Mill. from east Anatolia (Turkey): C. sivasicum Yıldız, Arabacı & Dirmenci and C. peshmenianum Yıldız, Dirmenci & Arabacı, are described and illustrated. Both new species belong to C. sect. Epitrachys DC. (Asteraceae: Cardueae) and are closely related to C. rigidum DC., C. leuconeurum Boiss. & Hausskn. and C. karduchorum Petr. The differences between the new species and their allies are discussed and a diagnostic key is provided. A detailed description of a previously poorly known species, C. leuconeurum, is also provided. The pollen grain morphology of the new species and their allies were investigated with light and scanning electron microscopes. Based on the shape of the spines and the surface ornamentation, the pollen grains of the species were divided into 3 types: C. rigidum and C. sivasicum (type I), C. leuconeurum and C. pesmenianum (type II), C. karduchorum (type III).
Thermal Stability and Crystallization Kinetics of MgO–Al2O3–B2O3–SiO2 Glasses
Authors: Reben Manuela , Li Hong
Published: February 2011

To support commercialization of the MgO–Al2O3–B2O–SiO2‐based low‐dielectric glass fibers, crystallization characteristics of the relevant glasses was investigated under various heat‐treatment conditions. The study focused on the effects of iron on the related thermal properties and crystallization kinetics. Both air‐cooled and nucleation‐treated samples were characterized by using the differential thermal analysis/differential scanning calorimeter method between room temperature and 1200°C. A collected set of properties covers glass transition temperature (Tg), maximum crystallization temperature (Tp), specific heat (ΔCp), enthalpy of crystallization (ΔHcryst), and thermal stability (ΔT=Tp—Tg). Using the Kinssiger method, the activation energy of crystallization was determined. Crystalline phases in the samples having various thermal histories were determined using powder X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and/or in situ high‐temperature XRD method. Selective scanning electron microscope/energy‐dispersive spectroscopy analysis provided evidence that crystal density in the glass is affected by the iron concentration. Glass network structures, for air‐cooled and heat‐treated samples, were examined using a midinfrared spectroscopic method. Combining all of the results from our study, iron in glass is believed to function as a nucleation agent enhancing crystal population density in the melt without altering a primary phase field. By comparing the XRD data of the glasses in two forms (bulk versus powder), the following conclusions can be reached. The low‐dielectric glass melt in commercial operation should be resistant to crystallization above 1100°C. Microscopic amorphous phase separation, possibly a borate‐enriched phase separating from the silicate‐enriched continuous phase can occur only if the melt is held at temperatures below 1100°C, that is, below the glass immiscibility temperature. The study concludes that neither crystallization nor amorphous phase separation will be expected for drawing fibers between 1200°C and 1300°C in a commercial operation.
Head Curve of Noncavitating Inducer
Authors: Li Wen-Guang
Published: February 2011

In the inducer hydraulic design, one significantly important task is to estimate its noncavtating head; however, there is not a matured and reliable method for this presently. In this paper, a method was made for predicting the inducer head curve. The method was based on a singularity method and a hydraulic loss model with a variable correction factor. The blade thickness blockage effect on the flow was taken into account. The method was validated with the experimental data of the existing 17 inducers found in references. Moreover, the curves showing the relation of the correction factor with the mean blade angle at tip for two- and three-bladed inducers were established. The method can achieve a very good agreement with experimental observations. Furthermore, the flow field calculated by the method may be instructive to the engineers of inducer hydraulic design.
Receptors, Signaling Networks, and DiseaseA report on the INSINET symposium held in Madrid, Spain, 23 to 24 September 2010.
Authors: Cuesta Natalia , Martín-Cófreces Noa B. , Murga Cristina , van Santen Hisse M.
Published: February 2011

This meeting in Madrid focused on signaling by immune cells and regulation of and signaling by G protein–coupled receptors.
A Helping Hand for Implantation
Authors: VanHook Annalisa M.
Published: February 2011

Progesterone opposes estrogen-induced uterine epithelial proliferation through the transcription factor Hand2.
Mastering Memory Maintenance
Authors: Stern Peter R.
Published: February 2011

Tagging of cortical networks at the time of encoding is crucial for long-lasting associative memories.
It Just Keeps Going and Going
Authors: Colmone Angela
Published: February 2011

Mutations in a superoxide-forming enzyme lead to macrophage-specific defects and predispose to mycobacterium infection.
Stemming Hair Loss
Authors: LaMarco Kelly
Published: February 2011

Hair follicles from men with male pattern baldness retain quiescent stem-like cells but not progenitor cells, suggesting that the condition may be reversible.
Science Translational Medicine
Podcast: 23 February 2011
Authors: Weissleder Ralph , Smith Orla
Published: February 2011

A conversation with Ralph Weissleder about his smart phone–operated micro-NMR device that provides accurate cancer diagnoses in 60 minutes.
Differential Drug Efflux or Accumulation Does Not Explain Variation in the Chloroquine Response of Plasmodium falciparum Strains Expressing the Same Isoform of Mutant PfCRT
Authors: Lehane Adele M. , van Schalkwyk Donelly A. , Valderramos Stephanie G. , Fidock David A. , Kirk Kiaran
Published: February 2011

Mutant forms of thePlasmodium falciparumchloroquine resistance transporter (PfCRT) mediate chloroquine resistance by effluxing the drug from the parasite's digestive vacuole, the acidic organelle in which chloroquine exerts its parasiticidal effect. However, different parasites bearing the same mutant form of PfCRT can vary substantially in their chloroquine susceptibility. Here, we have investigated the biochemical basis for the difference in chloroquine response among transfectant parasite lines having different genetic backgrounds but bearing the same mutant form of PfCRT. Despite showing significant differences in their chloroquine susceptibility, all lines with the mutant PfCRT showed a similar chloroquine-induced H+leak from the digestive vacuole, indicative of similar rates of PfCRT-mediated chloroquine efflux. Furthermore, all lines showed similarly reduced levels of drug accumulation. Factors other than chloroquine efflux and accumulation therefore influence the susceptibility to this drug in parasites expressing mutant PfCRT. Furthermore, in some but not all strains bearing mutant PfCRT, the 50% inhibitory concentration (IC50) for chloroquine and the degree of resistance compared to that of recombinant control parasites varied with the length of the parasite growth assays. In these parasites, the 50% inhibitory concentration for chloroquine measured in 72- or 96-h assays was significantly lower than that measured in 48-h assays. This highlights the importance of considering the first- and second-cycle activities of chloroquine in future studies of parasite susceptibility to this drug.
In Vitro
Activities of Synthetic Host Defense Propeptides Processed by Neutrophil Elastase against Cystic Fibrosis Pathogens
Authors: Desgranges Stephane , Le Prieult Florie , Daly Alan , Lydon Jennifer , Brennan Marian , Rai Dilip K. , Subasinghage Anusha P. , Hewage Chandralal M. , Cryan Sally-Ann , Greene Catherine , McElvaney Noel G. , Smyth Timothy P. , Fitzgerald-Hughes Deirdre , Humphreys Hilary , Devocelle Marc
Published: February 2011

The antimicrobial and hemolytic activities of a host defense peptide can be controlled by its modification as a propeptide of reduced net charge, which can then be processed by neutrophil elastase, a serine protease involved in chronic airway inflammation and infections associated with cystic fibrosis.
Novel K540N Mutation in Plasmodium falciparum Dihydropteroate Synthetase Confers a Lower Level of Sulfa Drug Resistance than Does a K540E Mutation
Authors: Lumb Vanshika , Sharma Yagya D.
Published: February 2011

Sulfadoxine (SDX) and sulfamethoxazole (SMX) each inhibit the
Plasmodium falciparum
dihydropteroate synthetase (PfDHPS), and certain point mutations in this enzyme yield the drug-resistant parasite. Using a simple
Escherichia coli
model system, we describe here the effect of the recently reported novel K540N mutation in PfDHPS on the level of SDX/SMX resistance. The survival rate of the transformed
E. coli
(DHPS-deficient strain) under different SDX or SMX concentrations revealed that the K540N mutation confers a lower level of drug resistance than its contemporary K540E mutation. Further, SMX was more effective than SDX in the
E. coli
system.
In Vitro
Activities of Retapamulin and 16 Other Antimicrobial Agents against Recently Obtained Streptococcus pyogenes Isolates
Authors: Pérez-Trallero Emilio , Tamayo Esther , Montes Milagrosa , García-Arenzana José M. , Iriarte Victor
Published: February 2011

Retapamulin
in vitro
activity against 400
Streptococcus pyogenes
clinical isolates obtained from skin, pharynx, ear fluid, and blood samples recovered from 2007 to 2009 was studied. The isolates belonged to 26 different
emm
types, including isolates nonsusceptible to erythromycin (
n
= 187), tetracycline (
n
= 99), ciprofloxacin (
n
= 59), and bacitracin (
n
= 43). Results were compared to the activities of 16 other antibiotics for topical and systemic use. Retapamulin MICs ranged from ≤0.015 to 0.12 μg/ml, showing the highest intrinsic activity among the topical antimicrobial drugs studied.
Activities of Different Classes of Acyclic Nucleoside Phosphonates against BK Virus in Primary Human Renal Cells
Authors: Topalis D. , Lebeau I. , Krečmerová M. , Andrei G. , Snoeck R.
Published: February 2011

BK virus (BKV), a virus belonging to the polyomavirus family, is a circular double-stranded DNA virus that causes nephropathies in immunocompromised patients after kidney or bone marrow transplantation. The occurrence of polyomavirus-associated nephropathy in kidney transplant patients may trigger graft loss, and guidelines for the management of BKV infection have not yet been clearly established. Treatment of BKV nephropathy with cidofovir (CDV) {(
S
)-1-[3-hydroxy-2-(phosphonomethoxy)propyl]cytosine (HPMPC)}, an acyclic phosphonate analogue of dCMP with a broad antiviral activity against DNA virus infections, has been proposed. The benefit of this small-molecule-based treatment has been evaluated only with a limited number of cases. In this study, we report the evaluation of three different classes of acyclic nucleoside phosphonates for their activities against BKV replication in two different primary renal cells: renal proximal tubular epithelial cells (RPTECs) and human renal cortical epithelial (HRCE) cells. The data indicate that besides HPMPC and its cyclic form, (
S
)-1-[3-hydroxy-2-(phosphonomethoxy)propyl]-5-azacytosine (HPMP-5-azaC), cyclic HPMP (cHPMP)-5-azaC, hexadecyloxyethyl (HDE)-cHPMP-5-azaC, and 9-[2-(phosphonomethoxy)ethyl]guanine (PMEG) are the most selective inhibitors of BKV replication. On the contrary, leflunomide, which has also been proposed for the management of BKV-associated diseases, is not able to inhibit BKV replication at nontoxic concentrations.
Epithelial Phosphatidylinositol-3-Kinase Signaling Is Required for β-Catenin Activation and Host Defense against Citrobacter rodentium Infection
Authors: Brown Jeffrey B. , Cheresh Paul , Goretsky Tatiana , Managlia Elizabeth , Grimm Gery R. , Ryu Hyunji , Zadeh Mojgan , Dirisina Ramanarao , Barrett Terrence A.
Published: February 2011

Citrobacter rodentiuminfection of mice induces cell-mediated immune responses associated with crypt hyperplasia and epithelial β-catenin signaling. Recent data suggest that phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt signaling cooperates with Wnt to activate β-catenin in intestinal stem and progenitor cells through phosphorylation at Ser552 (P-β-catenin552). Our aim was to determine whether epithelial PI3K/Akt activation is required for β-catenin signaling and host defense againstC. rodentium. C57BL/6 mice were infected withC. rodentiumand treated with dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) (vehicle control) or with the PI3K inhibitor LY294002 or wortmannin. The effects of infection on PI3K activation and β-catenin signaling were analyzed by immunohistochemistry. The effects of PI3K inhibition on host defense were analyzed by the quantification of splenic and colon bacterial clearance, and adaptive immune responses were measured by real-time PCR (RT-PCR) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Increased numbers of P-β-catenin552-stained epithelial cells were found throughout expanded crypts inC. rodentiumcolitis. We show that the inhibition of PI3K signaling attenuates epithelial Akt activation, the Ser552 phosphorylation and activation of β-catenin, and epithelial cell proliferative responses duringC. rodentiuminfection. PI3K inhibition impairs bacterial clearance despite having no impact on mucosal cytokine (gamma interferon [IFN-γ], tumor necrosis factor [TNF], interleukin-17 [IL-17], and IL-1β) or chemokine (CXCL1, CXCL5, CXCL9, and CXCL10) induction. The results suggest that the host defense againstC. rodentiumrequires epithelial PI3K activation to induce Akt-mediated β-catenin signaling and the clearance ofC. rodentiumindependent of adaptive immune responses.
Towards a national sports safety strategy: addressing facilitators and barriers towards safety guideline uptake: Table 1
Authors: Finch Caroline F , Gabbe Belinda J , Lloyd David G , Cook Jill , Young Warren , Nicholson Matthew , Seward Hugh , Donaldson Alex , Doyle Tim L A
Published: February 2011

Background

Limited information exists about how best to conduct intervention implementation studies in community sport settings. Research should be directed towards understanding the context within which evidence-based injury prevention interventions are to be implemented, while continuing to build the evidence-base for the effectiveness of sports injury interventions.

Objectives

To identify factors that influence the translation of evidence-based injury prevention interventions into practice in community sport, and to provide specific evidence for the effectiveness of an evidence-based exercise training programme for lower limb injury prevention in community Australian football.

Setting

Community-level Australian football clubs, teams and players.

Methods

An exercise-based lower limb injury prevention programme will be developed and evaluated in terms of the implementation context, infrastructure and resources needed for its effective translation into community sport. Analysis of the community sports safety policy context will be undertaken to understand the barriers and facilitators to policy development and uptake. A randomised group-clustered ecological study will be conducted to compare the reach, effectiveness, adoption, implementation and maintenance (RE-AIM) of the intervention over 2 years.

Outcome Measures

The primary outcome will be evidence-based prevention guidelines that are fully supported by a comprehensively evaluated dissemination plan. The plan will detail the support structures and add-ons necessary to ensure sustainability and subsequent national implementation. Research outcomes will include new knowledge about how sports safety policy is set, how consensus is reached among sports safety experts in the community setting and how evidence-based safety guidelines are best developed, packaged and disseminated to community sport.
The turn for ultimate harm: a reply to Fenton
Authors: Persson Ingmar , Savulescu Julian
Published: February 2011

Elizabeth Fenton has criticised an earlier article by the authors in which the claim was made that, by providing humankind with means of causing its destruction, the advance of science and technology has put it in a perilous condition that might take the development of genetic or biomedical techniques of moral enhancement to get out of. The development of these techniques would, however, require further scientific advances, thus forcing humanity deeper into the danger zone created by modern science. Fenton argues that the benefits of scientific advances are undervalued. The authors believe that the argument rather relies upon attaching a special weight to even very slight risks of major catastrophes, and attempt to vindicate this weighting.
Misinformation in the medical literature: What role do error and fraud play?: Table 1
Authors: Steen R Grant
Published: February 2011

Media attention to retracted research suggests that a substantial number of papers are corrupted by misinformation. In reality, every paper contains misinformation; at issue is whether the balance of correct versus incorrect information is acceptable. This paper postulates that analysis of retracted research papers can provide insight into medical misinformation, although retracted papers are not a random sample of incorrect papers. Error is the most common reason for retraction and error may be the principal cause of misinformation as well. Still, one-quarter of retracted papers are fraudulent, and misinformation may also arise through fraud. This paper hypothesises that error and fraud are the main sources of misinformation and that error is more common than fraud. Retraction removes misinformation from the literature; bias is non-retracted misinformation. Bias arises when scientific impropriety results in false research findings. Impropriety can involve experimental design, data collection, data analysis, or data presentation. Yet impropriety also arises through earnest error or statistical naiveté; not all bias is fraud. Several measures are proposed to minimise misinformation in the medical literature, including: greater detail in the clinical trial registry, with rigorous definition of inclusion and exclusion criteria and primary endpoints; clear statistical criteria for every aspect of clinical trials, especially sample size; responsibility for data integrity that accrues to all named authors; increased transparency as to how the costs of research were paid; and greater clarity as to the reasons for retraction. Misinformation can arise without malicious intent; authors of incorrect papers are owed a presumption of incompetence, not malice.
SPECTRAL AND SCATTERING THEORY FOR THE AHARONOV–BOHM OPERATORS
Authors: PANKRASHKIN KONSTANTIN , RICHARD SERGE
Published: February 2011

We review the spectral and the scattering theory for the Aharonov–Bohm model on ℝ2. New formulae for the wave operators and for the scattering operator are presented. The asymptotics at high energy and at low energy of the scattering operator are computed.
INTRODUCTION TO THE SPECIAL ISSUE ON "OPERATIONAL RESEARCH AND ASIA RISK MANAGEMENT"
Authors: WU DESHENG DASH , OLSON DAVID L. , SECO LUIS A. , BIRGE JOHN
Published: February 2011

Risks are traditionally defined as the combination of probability and severity, but are actually characterized by additional factors. We believe the characteristics of risks include uncertainties, dynamics, dependence, clusterings and complexities, which motivate the utilization of various operational research tools. The objective of this issue is to survey the practice of using operational research tools in risk management, especially Asian risk management.
THE GEOMETRIC PICTURE OF GENERALIZED-CP AND HIGGS-FAMILY TRANSFORMATIONS IN THE TWO-HIGGS-DOUBLET MODEL
Authors: FERREIRA P. M. , HABER HOWARD E. , MANIATIS M. , NACHTMANN O. , SILVA JOÃO P.
Published: February 2011

In the two-Higgs-doublet model (THDM), generalized-CP transformations ([Formula: see text] where X is unitary) and unitary Higgs-family transformations (φi→Uijφj) have recently been examined in a series of papers. In terms of gauge-invariant bilinear functions of the Higgs fields φi, the Higgs-family transformations and the generalized-CP transformations possess a simple geometric description. Namely, these transformations correspond in the space of scalar-field bilinears to proper and improper rotations, respectively. In this formalism, recent results relating generalized CP transformations with Higgs-family transformations have a clear geometric interpretation. We will review what is known regarding THDM symmetries, as well as derive new results concerning those symmetries, namely how they can be interpreted geometrically as applications of several CP transformations.
STOCHASTIC MODELING AND FILTERING OF DISCRETE MEASUREMENTS FOR A TURBULENT FIELD APPLICATION TO MEASUREMENTS OF ATMOSPHERIC WIND
Authors: BAEHR C.
Published: February 2011

Nonlinear filtering of local turbulent fluid measurements was an unexplored domain; in this paper, we present original stochastic models and efficient filters to explore it. First, we propose nonlinear filters for processes of a mean-field law and give the convergence of their particle approximations. We then define the acquisition process of a vector field along a random path, and significantly modify the Lagrangian models of fluids proposed by the physicists to make them compatible with the problem of filtering. The closure of these equations is obtained by conditioning the dynamics to the observations and to the acquisition process. Our algorithm allowed us to filter velocity measurements of a real turbulent fluid in 3D flows.
OPTIMIZATION OF DIFFUSION PROCESS FOR PRODUCTION OF SYSTEMS OF DIFFUSED-JUNCTION RECTIFIERS
Authors: PANKRATOV E. L.
Published: February 2011

It has been recently shown that difference between diffusion coefficients of dopant in layers of a multilayer structure leads to increasing of sharpness of diffusion-junction rectifier (see, for example, E. L. Pankratov, Phys. Rev. B72(7), 075201 (2005); E. L. Pankratov and B. Spagnolo, Eur. Phys. J. B 46(1), 15 (2005).), which was formed in the multilayer structure after appropriate choosing of materials of layers. It has been also shown that the difference between the diffusion coefficients also leads to increasing of homogeneity of dopant distribution in doped area. In this paper, both the effects (together increasing of sharpness of p–n-junction and increasing of homogeneity of dopant distribution) have been used to produce a system of p–n-junctions (such as bipolar transistors). Annealing time has been optimized to increase simultaneously the sharpness and the homogeneity.
EFFECT OF APERIODICITY ON THE CHARGE TRANSFER THROUGH DNA MOLECULES
Authors: GHOSH ANGSULA , CHAUDHURI PUSPITAPALLAB
Published: February 2011

The effect of aperiodicity on the charge transfer process through DNA molecules is investigated using a tight-binding model. Single-stranded aperiodic Fibonacci polyGC and polyAT sequences along with aperiodic Rudin–Shapiro poly(GCAT) sequences are used in the study. Based on the tight-binding model, molecular orbital calculations of the DNA chains are performed and ionization potentials compared, as this might be relevant to understanding the charge transfer process. Charges migrate through the sequences in a multistep hopping process. Results for current conduction through aperiodic sequences are compared with those for the corresponding periodic sequences. We find that dinucleotide aperiodic Fibonacci sequences decrease the current while tetranucleotide aperiodic Rudin–Shapiro sequences increase the current when compared with the corresponding periodic sequences. The conductance in all cases decays exponentially as the sequence length increases.
SYNTHESIS AND CHARACTERIZATION OF CoFe2O4/Ni0.5Zn0.5Fe2O4 CORE/SHELL MAGNETIC NANOCOMPOSITE BY THE WET CHEMICAL ROUTE
Authors: HONARBAKHSH-RAOUF A. , EMAMIAN H. R. , YOURDKHANI A. , ATAIE A.
Published: February 2011

A cobalt ferrite/nickel-zinc ferrite core/shell nanocomposite was synthesized by a polymerized complex method using iron citrate, cobalt nitrate, nickel nitrate, zinc nitrate, citric acid, ethylene glycol, benzoic acid and sodium citrate as starting materials. The XRD, TEM and VSM techniques were employed to evaluate the phase composition, morphology and magnetic properties of the samples. The XRD results indicated the coexistence of characteristic reflections of CoFe 2 O 4 and Ni 0.5 Zn 0.5 Fe 2 O 4 spinel ferrites in the composite sample. The core/shell structure of the composite sample has been confirmed by TEM images. The size of obtained spherical core/shell nanoparticles was 20–40 nm in core diameter and about 10 nm in shell thickness. The VSM results showed that both the coercivity and the saturation magnetization of the resulting core/shell nanocomposite were decreased compared to those of the CoFe 2 O 4 core, due to the interaction at the interface of CoFe 2 O 4 and Ni 0.5 Zn 0.5 Fe 2 O 4.
EFFECT OF pH ON ZnS NANOCRYSTALLINE THIN FILM EMBEDDED IN A POLYVINYL ALCOHOL MATRIX
Authors: BORAH J. P. , BARMAN J. , SARMA K. C.
Published: February 2011

Polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) has been used as a matrix to synthesize ZnS / PVA nanocomposite film on glass substrate by chemical method. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) has been used for structural, morphological and compositional characterization. Optical properties have been studied by UV-Visible spectrophotometry and photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy. Changing pH value from 4.8 to 0.8 decreases the particle size and correspondingly increases the band gap. The PL emission intensity also increases by decreasing the pH values.
MODULATIONAL INSTABILITY OF DIPOLAR BOSE–EINSTEIN CONDENSATES IN AN OPTICAL LATTICE
Authors: CHEN HAIFENG , HUANG JINSONG , XIE ZHENGWEI
Published: February 2011

From the discrete nonlinear Schrödinger equation and the linear stability analysis, the modulational instability (MI) of dipolar Bose–Einstein Condensates (BECs) in an optical lattice is studied. The MI relation of the dipolar BECs in the optical lattice with the on-site interaction and the inter-site interaction is obtained. The results show that there is a great influence of inter-site interaction on MI of dipolar BEC in the optical lattice. This gives us some useful information for manipulating dipolar BECs in practice.
ENTANGLEMENT AND AUTOCORRELATION FUNCTION IN SEMICONDUCTOR MICROCAVITIES
Authors: ELEUCH H.
Published: February 2011

The autocorrelation function of the light emitted by a microcavity containing a semiconductor quantum well in the nonstationary regime is investigated. An analytical expression in the weak pumping and strong coupling regime is derived. Furthermore, it is shown that the initial entangled state can be deduced from the nonstationary autocorrelation function.
Singlet molecular oxygen generation by water-soluble phthalocyanine dendrimers with different aggregation behavior
Authors: Nishida Masakazu , Horiuchi Hiroaki , Momotake Atsuya , Nishimura Yoshinobu , Hiratsuka Hiroshi , Arai Tatsuo
Published: February 2011

Phthalocyanines having hydrophilic or lipophilic dendrons were synthesized to investigate the efficiencies of singlet molecular oxygen (1Δg) formation. The introduction of higher generation of dendrons to the central metal ( Si ) of phthalocyanine in vertical direction to their ring plane has resulted in the successful improvement in avoiding aggregate formation that resulted in efficient generation of 1Δg even in water.
SUPPLIER INVOLVEMENT IN CUSTOMER NEW PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT: NEW INSIGHTS FROM THE SUPPLIER'S PERSPECTIVE
Authors: KLIOUTCH IRINA , LEKER JENS
Published: February 2011

This paper presents the results from an empirical survey of chemical suppliers, which examines the influence of customer relationship functions on supplier involvement in customer new product development (NPD) from the supplier's perspective. Using multiple regression analysis, we can demonstrate a positive influence between the direct functions (e.g., profit, volume) of customer relationship and supplier involvement in customer NPD. Differentiating between innovative and non-innovative suppliers leads to distinctive differences. While the direct functions are a strong predictor for the supplier involvement in the non-innovative supplier group, in the innovative group only indirect functions (innovation, market, scout and access functions) influence the supplier involvement. These results show that mutual support in the NPD and open network are the imperative triggers for the involvement of innovative suppliers. The obtained results provide theoretical as well as practical implications for the supplier involvement in customer NPD.
GENERALIZED HYPERCENTERS IN INFINITE GROUPS
Authors: Beidleman James C. , Heineken Hermann , Russo Francesko G.
Published: February 2011

We consider the so-called generalized center, defined by Agrawal, in the slightly wider context of periodic groups and try to find out where additional conditions are needed for refinements. In particular we consider the final terms of the corresponding ascending sequences.
QUINTUPLE PRODUCT IDENTITY AS A SPECIAL CASE OF RAMANUJAN'S 1ψ1 SUMMATION FORMULA
Authors: Bhargava S. , Adiga Chandrashekar , Mahadeva Naika M. S.
Published: February 2011

In this note we observe an interesting fact that the well-known quintuple product identity can be regarded as a special case of the celebrated 1ψ1 summation formula of Ramanujan which is known to unify the Jacobi triple product identity and the q -binomial theorem.
POSITIVE SOLUTIONS FOR ITERATIVE SYSTEMS OF NONLINEAR BOUNDARY VALUE PROBLEMS ON TIME SCALES
Authors: Rao A. Kameswara , Rao S. Nageswara
Published: February 2011

Values of λ1, λ2, …, λn are determined for which there exist positive solutions of the iterative system of dynamic equations, [Formula: see text], 1 ≤ i ≤ n, un+1(t) = u1(t), for t ∈ [a, b]𝕋, and satisfying the boundary conditions, [Formula: see text], 0 ≤ m ≤ n - 2, ui(σn (b)) = 0, 1 ≤ i ≤ n, where 𝕋 is a time scale. A Guo-Krasnosel'skii fixed point theorem is applied.𝕋
SYMMETRY ANALYSIS OF TELEGRAPH EQUATION
Authors: Nadjafikhah Mehdi , Hejazi Seyed-Reza
Published: February 2011

Lie symmetry group method is applied to study the telegraph equation. The symmetry group and one-parameter group associated to the symmetries with the structure of the Lie algebra symmetries are determined. The reduced version of equation and its one-dimensional optimal system are given.
THE LU FACTORIZATIONS AND DETERMINANTS OF THE K-TRIDIAGONAL MATRICES
Authors: YALÇINER AYNUR
Published: February 2011

In this paper we present LU factorizations and determinants of the k-tridiagonal matrices. We find also eigenvalues of the respective k-tridiagonal Toeplitz matrices.
On Chebyshev′s Systems and Non‐Uniform Sampling Related to Caputo Fractional Dynamic Time‐Invariant Systems
Authors: De la Sen M.
Published: February 2011

This paper is concerned with the investigation of the controllability and observability of Caputo fractional differential linear systems of any real order α. Expressions for the expansions of the evolution operators in powers of the matrix of dynamics are first obtained. Sets of linearly independent continuous functions or matrix functions, which are also Chebyshev′s systems, appear in such expansions in a natural way. Based on the properties of such functions, the controllability and observability of the Caputo fractional differential system of real order α are discussed as related to their counterpart properties in the corresponding standard system defined for α = 1. Extensions are given to the fulfilment of those properties under non‐uniform sampling. It is proved that the choice of the appropriate sampling instants is not restrictive as a result of the properties of the associate Chebyshev′s systems.
Utilization of Biodiesel By‐Products for Biogas Production
Authors: Kolesárová Nina , Hutňan Miroslav , Bodík Igor , Špalková Viera
Published: February 2011

This contribution reviews the possibility of using the by‐products from biodiesel production as substrates for anaerobic digestion and production of biogas. The process of biodiesel production is predominantly carried out by catalyzed transesterification. Besides desired methylesters, this reaction provides also few other products, including crude glycerol, oil‐pressed cakes, and washing water. Crude glycerol or g‐phase is heavier separate liquid phase, composed mainly by glycerol. A couple of studies have demonstrated the possibility of biogas production, using g‐phase as a single substrate, and it has also shown a great potential as a cosubstrate by anaerobic treatment of different types of organic waste or energy crops. Oil cakes or oil meals are solid residues obtained after oil extraction from the seeds. Another possible by‐product is the washing water from raw biodiesel purification, which is an oily and soapy liquid. All of these materials have been suggested as feasible substrates for anaerobic degradation, although some issues and inhibitory factors have to be considered.
Sex Differences in Drug Disposition
Authors: Soldin Offie P. , Chung Sarah H. , Mattison Donald R.
Published: February 2011

Physiological, hormonal, and genetic differences between males and females affect the prevalence, incidence, and severity of diseases and responses to therapy. Understanding these differences is important for designing safe and effective treatments. This paper summarizes sex differences that impact drug disposition and includes a general comparison of clinical pharmacology as it applies to men and women.
Rapeseed Oil Monoester of Ethylene Glycol Monomethyl Ether as a New Biodiesel
Authors: Dayong Jiang , Xuanjun Wang , Shuguang Liu , Hejun Guo
Published: February 2011

A novel biodiesel named rapeseed oil monoester of ethylene glycol monomethyl ether is developed. This fuel has one more ester group than the traditional biodiesel. The fuel was synthesized and structurally identified through FT‐IR and P1PH NMR analyses. Engine test results show that when a tested diesel engine is fueled with this biodiesel in place of 0# diesel fuel, engine‐out smoke emissions can be decreased by 25.0%–75.0%, CO emissions can be reduced by 50.0%, and unburned HC emissions are lessened significantly. However, NOx emissions generally do not change noticeably. In the area of combustion performance, both engine in‐cylinder pressure and its changing rate with crankshaft angle are increased to some extent. Rapeseed oil monoester of ethylene glycol monomethyl ether has a much higher cetane number and shorter ignition delay, leading to autoignition 1.1°CA earlier than diesel fuel during engine operation. Because of certain amount of oxygen contained in the new biodiesel, the engine thermal efficiency is improved 13.5%–20.4% when fueled with the biodiesel compared with diesel fuel.