bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A study on overhead glare in office lighting conditions
Authors: Xia Ling , Tu Yan , Liu Lu , Wang Yin , Peng Sheng , Knoop Martine , Heynderickx Ingrid
Published: November 2011

Abstract— High‐intensity light sources illuminating the human eye may create discomfort glare, or at higher intensities even disability glare. In many office lighting conditions, light from overhead luminaires in the ceiling may deliver stray light into human eyes, and as such create discomfort glare, generally referred to as overhead glare. In this paper, overhead glare for a LED luminaire comprising a matrix array of small LED sources using subjective evaluation methodologies and theoretical models, commonly accepted to evaluate glare, were investigated. The perceived overhead glare of the LED luminaire is evaluated at various luminance levels and at different angles (i.e., between 55 and 90°) with respect to the line of sight of the viewer. The results show that a luminaire comprising a matrix of high‐intensity point sources can cause overhead glare and can become glary at lower averaged luminance levels than a luminaire with a uniform light source even at high evaluation angles with respect to the line of sight of the viewer. In addition, the conventional UGR model for predicting discomfort glare needs adaptation for a reliable prediction of perceived overhead glare of complex LED luminaires consisting of a matrix of small‐sized high‐intensity light sources.
High‐efficiency UV LEDs and RGB white LEDs for lighting and LCD backlights
Authors: Muramoto Yoshihiko , Kimura Masahiro , Dempo Akihiko , Nouda Suguru , Fukawa Yuuya , Sakai Shiro
Published: November 2011

Abstract— Progress in the development of blue light‐emitting diodes and yellow phosphor has led to the realization of solid‐state lighting. The development was followed by improvement in the luminous efficacy of ultraviolet light‐emitting diodes (UV‐LEDs). By using near‐UV‐LEDs (n‐UV‐LEDs) excited light for red, green, and blue (RGB) phosphors, a new type of solid‐state lighting was realized. An innovative method for increasing the efficiency of LEDs by using a silicon nitride layer as the active layer and piling them up to a nano‐sized level with nano‐sized holes has been developed.
Thermal management of LED‐LCD TV display
Authors: Luiten G. A. , ter Weeme B. J. W.
Published: November 2011

Abstract— In the past years, the thermal management of the LEDs in an LCD TV with an LED backlight has evolved to cater to steadily increasing power densities in ever thinner product enclosures. In the lighting and computer industry, solutions to comparable thermal challenges are based on the use of large‐finned heat sinks. In the thin form factor of a modern TV set, this is not feasible, and the only large surface areas available for cooling are located on the front and the back of the TV set. The role of the in‐plane spreading has not been addressed thus far. The scope of the present work is to clarify the thermal significance of heat spreading in the in‐plane direction in the set, especially in relation to cost down through the use of less LED packages at equal total light output.
Fracturing Treatment/Geometry Optimization and Post-frac Performance Evaluation in a Tight Gas Reservoir
Authors: Khan Osama Hasan , Ali Virk Muhammad Muneeb , Ahmed Sheraz , Sajid Muhammad Ali , Abrar Saad Bin , Lakhani M. Haris
Published: November 2011

Unconventional gas resources, tight gas in particular, complements other major sources of hydrocarbon which if exploited effectively can play a significant role in meeting today’s energy challenges faced by Pakistan. The production of these major resources poses many economical challenges, which could be overcome by the astute use of available resources and technological efficacy. Hydraulic fracturing is an essential stimulation technique for the economic development of tight gas reservoirs. Mostly, fracture jobs are designed based on the maximum achievable treatment sizes which can result in wider fracture width, greater height, and longer half length. The ultimate aim is to achieve maximum deliverability. This approach is not versatile because the treatment parameters and fracture geometries are not sensitized. As a result, the treatment sizes and geometries are not the optimized ones. A better approach is to determine the best compromise between the resources available and the productivity enhancement achieved i.e., optimizing the fracturing treatment and geometry both physically and economically. Once the optimum balance is found, the next step is to establish the operational parameters (e.g. Pump Rate, Net Pressure, etc.).

This paper discusses the process to achieve the optimum fracturing treatment and geometry design and compares the actual field results obtained with those predicted. The analytical Pseudo-3D model has been used for the simulation of fracture propagation and optimization of parameters. The post-frac performance of the reservoir is predicted using both analytical and numerical methods (Using numerical reservoir simulator).

In order to validate the analytical and numerical models, the actual fracturing results from the field (fracture dimensions and deliverability) have been compared with those predicted by the model. The same fracturing treatment parameters that were used in the actual job execution have been used in the model validation process. Once the model is validated, the difference between the optimized treatment parameters and that used in the actual executed job has been highlighted; these differences emphasize the value of using the optimization process defined in this paper to achieve the best possible deliverability in an economically efficient manner.

The paper presents a systematic approach towards the optimization process of the fracturing treatment and geometry for tight gas reservoirs, which in turn influence the post fracturing deliverability results. The sensitivity analysis points out the parameters to which the fracture deliverability is most sensitive. The determination of such parameters and hence the fracture geometries remains a big challenge for tight gas reservoirs and industry remains committed to developing a thorough understanding of tight sands behavior.
Gas Hydrates: A Fuel for Future but Wrapped in Drilling Challenges
Authors: Qadir Muhammad Iqrar , Asrar Muhammad
Published: November 2011

Gas hydrates are clathrate non-stoichiometric compounds, in which the gas molecules are encaged in crystalline cells, consisting of water molecules retained by the energy of hydrogen bonds. They are also called clathrate hydrates or "flammable ice".

Considering the planet as a whole, the quantity of natural gas in sedimentary gas hydrates greatly exceeds conventional natural gas resources. As a result, numerous studies have been dedicated to the energy resource potential of gas hydrates. Hydrates of hydrocarbon gases occur naturally and attention has been drawn to develop these naturally occurring methane-hydrate reservoirs as an energy resource. The amount of carbon stored in these deposits is estimated to be 2-7 times higher than the amount present in the known fossil fuel deposits. Analysis indicates that hydrates can occupy as much as 500 m of sediments.

Gas Hydrates research in the last two decades has taken various directions ranging from ways to understand the safe and economical production of this enormous resource to drilling problems and challenges. Gas Hydrates are stable at low temperature and high pressures.

Studies are also underway for exploring the gas hydrates in the offshore area of Pakistan; initial exploration activities indicates very positive results for the presence of gas hydrates in the offshore Makran region (Western Costal Areas).

This paper does a review on occurrence of gas hydrates. This paper discusses drilling related challenges for exploiting of gas hydrates and proposes some solutions. Finally, future considerations and recommendations are presented in paper to that may help our industry to unwrap this Fuel for Future.
Retention of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene and heavy metals from industrial waste water by using the low cost adsorbent pine bark in a batch experiment
Authors: Nehrenheim E. , Odlare M. , Allard B.
Published: November 2011

Pine bark is a low cost sorbent originating from the forest industry. In recent years, it has been found to show promise as an adsorbent for metals and organic substances in contaminated water, especially landfill leachates and storm water. This study aims to investigate if pine bark can replace commercial adsorbents such as active carbon. An industrial effluent, collected from a treatment plant of a demilitarization factory, was diluted to form concentration ranges of contaminants and shaken with pine bark for 24 hours. Metals (e.g. Pb, Zn, Cd, As and Ni) and explosives, e.g., 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT), were analysed before and after treatment. The aim of the experiment was twofold; firstly, it was to investigate whether metals are efficiently removed in the presence of explosives and secondly, if adsorption of explosive substances to pine bark was possible. Langmuir and Freundlich isotherms were used to describe the adsorption process where this was possible. It was found that metal uptake was possible in the presence of TNT and other explosive contaminants. The uptake of TNT was satisfactory with up to 80% of the TNT adsorbed by pine bark.
A distillery by-product as an external carbon source for enhancing denitrification in mainstream and sidestream treatment processes
Authors: Makinia J. , Czerwionka K. , Oleszkiewicz J. , Kulbat E. , Fudala-Ksiazek S.
Published: November 2011

The use of fusel oil as an ‘alternative’ carbon source for denitrification in the mainstream and sidestream treatment processes was studied. Research comprised two kinds of batch experiments as well as acclimation of process biomass to external carbon sources. In the conventional nitrate utilization rate (NUR) measurements (one-phase experiments with non-acclimated biomass), the NUR with fusel oil was 1.4–1.7 g N/(kg VSS·h which was comparable to NUR with ethanol and with slowly biodegradable fraction of the settled wastewater. When fusel oil was added at the beginning of the anoxic phase, preceded by an anaerobic phase (in two-phase experiments with non-acclimated biomass), the NURs of 2.5–2.9 g N/(kg VSS·h) were comparable to the tests without the addition of any external carbon sources. The addition of fusel oil and ethanol resulted in a significant enhancement of the denitrification efficiency in lab-scale sequencing batch reactors treating sludge reject water. The NURs continuously increased from below 1 g N/(kg VSS·h) to over 10 g N/(kg VSS·h) over the entire 4-week operational period, indicating gradual acclimation to the substrate. The overall total N removal efficiency reached ∼90%.
Phenol adsorption by activated carbon produced from spent coffee grounds
Authors: Castro Cínthia S. , Abreu Anelise L. , Silva Carmen L. T. , Guerreiro Mário C.
Published: November 2011

The present work highlights the preparation of activated carbons (ACs) using spent coffee grounds, an agricultural residue, as carbon precursor and two different activating agents: water vapor (ACW) and K2CO3 (ACK). These ACs presented the microporous nature and high surface area (620–950 m2 g−1). The carbons, as well as a commercial activated carbon (CAC) used as reference, were evaluated as phenol adsorbent showing high adsorption capacity (≈150 mg g−1). The investigation of the pH solution in the phenol adsorption was also performed. The different activating agents led to AC with distinct morphological properties, surface area and chemical composition, although similar phenol adsorption capacity was verified for both prepared carbons. The production of activated carbons from spent coffee grounds resulted in promising adsorbents for phenol removal while giving a noble destination to the residue.
Interventions for Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders: Implications from Basic Science Research
Authors: Jennifer D. Thomas  , Edward P. Riley
Published: November 2011

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) constitutes a serious worldwide health problem that persists, despite prevention efforts. This chapter examines preclinical research on methods to reduce the severity of FASD, either during the period of prenatal alcohol exposure or during postnatal development. Some prenatal treatments focus on directly blocking or minimizing alcohol's mechanisms of teratogenic action. The possibility that nutritional supplements during prenatal alcohol exposure may reduce the severity of FASD is also explored. Finally, treatments that may be effective even after the alcohol insult, during postnatal development are examined, including nutritional, pharmacological, and environmental/behavioral interventions. Many exciting and effective treatments for FASD have been identified and the challenge is now to translate these findings to clinical populations.
FASD: Diagnostic Dilemmas and Challenges for a Modern Transgenerational Management Approach
Authors: Natalie Novick Brown  , Kieran O'Malley  , Ann P. Streissguth
Published: November 2011

For approximately 40 years, Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) has been defined consistently in terms of three diagnostic features in the presence of prenatal alcohol exposure: two physical criteria (i.e., dysmorphic face and growth deficits) and central nervous system dysfunction (structural, neurological, and/or functional). Despite this relatively long and intact diagnostic history, identifying FASD has been difficult historically due to the complexity of presenting symptoms, varied handling by different diagnostic schemes, need for multidisciplinary assessment, and the masking of neurodevelopmental symptoms behind psychiatric diagnoses (“co-occurring disorders”). The objectives of this chapter are threefold: (1) to summarize diagnostic schema and characteristics of children and adults with FASD; (2) to increase awareness of some of the diagnostic challenges that currently exist in FASD assessment, particularly in terms of co-occurring disorders; and (3) to recommend a model standard of multidisciplinary assessment and multimodal treatment that may be useful to professionals in the clinical setting.
Disordered Eating and Psychological Distress among Adults
Authors: Patrick Julie Hicks , Stahl Sarah T. , Sundaram Murali
Published: November 2011

The majority of our knowledge about eating disorders derives from adolescent and young adult samples; knowledge regarding disordered eating in middle and later adulthood is limited. We examined the associations among known predictors of eating disorders for younger adults in an age-diverse sample and within the context of psychological distress. Using data from 567 adults (ages 18 to 88 years), we tested a path model in which age, gender, eating-related cognitions, and satisfaction with appearance predicted eating disorders which, in turn, predicted psychological distress. The model fit the data well (χ2 (DF= 11, N = 567) = 30.58, p < .001; GFI = .987, NFI = .963; RMSEA = .056), explaining 20.1% of the variance in psychological distress.
Elevated Serum Cholesterol Levels in Women with Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder
Authors: Hsiao Mei-Chun , Liu Chia-Yih , Hsu Shi-Chieh , Hsiao Cheng-Cheng , Lin Yi-Hsiung , Hsieh T'sang-T'ang
Published: November 2011

Objectives:

To study the association of premenstrual serum total cholesterol level (TC) with premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).

Method:

The premenstrual serum cholesterol levels of 34 patients with PMDD and 20 normal controls were measured, and the rates of hypercholesterolemia in the 2 groups were compared.

Results:

The mean of the premenstrual cholesterol level of the study group was 180.82 + 34.47 mg/dL, while that of the control group was 162.45 + 21.29 mg/dL ( t = 2.152, df = 52, p = 0.036). The prevalence of premenstrual hypercholesterolemia (serum total cholesterol > 200 mg/dL) was 23.53% (8/34) in the PMDD group and zero in the normal control group (chi-square=5.524, df = 1, p = 0.019).

Conclusion:

The results showed elevated premenstrual serum cholesterol in PMDD and implied a new direction of research to further explore the etiology of PMDD. It is suggested that the pathophysiology of premenstrual dysphoric disorder may be similar to that of anxiety disorders.
A New Way Forward: Native Nations, Nonprofitization, Community Land Trusts, and the Indigenous Shadow State
Authors: Rose Samuel W.
Published: November 2011

Indigenous sovereignty has been both expanded and restricted in the current self-determination era of federal Indian policy in the United States. This has allowed both the expansion and strengthening of indigenous governments, as well as the continued successful efforts to restrict and regulate these sovereign indigenous nations. The existing models of governance, development, and planning fail to adequately account for these challenges to the fundamental legitimacy of indigenous governments. I propose the model of the indigenous shadow state based around community land trusts and other indigenously-controlled nonprofit organizations, as a complementary model, to compensate for these challenges as a means of ensuring the long term viability of indigenous social and political institutions. I discuss how a community land trust can be utilized to perform the role of a government and serve the long term needs of its citizens in the areas of housing, economic development, and land reclamation. I also briefly discuss how this model can be applied in the urban context.
Processes of Cross-Sector Collaboration: A Case Study of the Virginia Coastal Zone Management Program
Authors: McNamara Madeleine W.
Published: November 2011

Organizations representing the nonprofit, public, and private sectors often collaborate to enhance capacities while addressing complex, interconnected problems. Using the framework of Bryson, Crosby, and Stone, processes used to support successful collaboration are explored empirically through a multiple sector arrangement involving 15 nonprofit, public, and private organizations. Findings are offered to augment the framework to incorporate organizational interests and leveraging resources. Implications for the study and practice of public management are discussed.
Synthesis and properties of 5,10,15,20-tetra[4-(3,5-dioctoxybenzamidephenyl] porphyrin and its metal complexes
Authors: Lian Wenhui , Sun Yuanyuan , Wang Binbin , Shan Ning , Shi Tongshun
Published: November 2011

A novel 5,10,15,20-tetra[4-(3,5-dioctoxybenzamide)phenyl]porphyrin and its
transition metal complexes are reported in this paper. Their molecular
structures were characterized by elemental analysis, IR spectra, 1HNMR
spectra and UV-Vis spectra. Their spectroscopic properties were studied by
Raman spectra, fluorescence spectra and X-ray photoelectron spectra (XPS).
The fluorescence quantum yields have been measured at room temperature. The
fluorescence intensity of porphyrin ligand was stronger than that of the
complexes. In Raman spectra, there was much difference between porphyrin
ligand and its metal complexes due to changes of the symmetry of porphyrin
plane. In the XPS spectra, the replacement of the free-base protons by a
metal ion to form the metalloporphyrin increases the symmetry of the
molecule also introduces an electron with-drawing group into the center of
the porphyrin ligand which increases the N1s binding energy.
Calculation of the effective diffusion coefficient during the drying of clay samples
Authors: Vasic Milos , Radojevic Zagorka , Grbavcic Zeljko
Published: November 2011

The aim of this study was to calculate the effective diffusion coefficient
based on experimentally recorded drying curves for two masonry clays obtained
from different localities. The calculation method and two computer programs
based on the mathematical calculation of the second Fick?s law and Cranck
diffusion equation were developed. Masonry product shrinkage during drying
was taken into consideration for the first time and the appropriate
correction was entered into the calculation. The results presented in this
paper show that the values of the effective diffusion coefficient determined
by the designed computer programs (with and without the correction for
shrinkage) have similar values to those available in the literature for the
same coefficient for different clays. Based on the mathematically determined
prognostic value of the effective diffusion coefficient, it was concluded
that, whatever the initial mineralogical composition of the clay, there is
90% agreement of the calculated prognostic drying curves with the
experimentally recorded ones. When a shrinkage correction of the masonry
products is introduced into the calculation step, this agreement is even
better.
Somatostatin Receptor Type 2 Antagonism Improves Glucagon and Corticosterone Counterregulatory Responses to Hypoglycemia in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats
Authors: Yue Jessica T.Y. , Burdett Elena , Coy David H. , Giacca Adria , Efendic Suad , Vranic Mladen
Published: November 2011

Diminished responsiveness to hypoglycemia contributes to defective counterregulation in diabetes. Pancreatic and/or circulating somatostatin are elevated in diabetes, which may inhibit counterregulatory hormone release during hypoglycemia. Thus, a selective somatostatin receptor type 2 antagonist (SSTR2a) should improve hormone counterregulation to hypoglycemia. Nondiabetic (N) and streptozotocin-induced diabetic (D) rats underwent 4-h infusion of saline or SSTR2a with insulin-induced hypoglycemia clamped at 2.5 ± 0.5 mmol/L. To evaluate the effect of the SSTR2a in the absence of hypoglycemia, rats underwent a 4-h infusion of saline (Ctrl:N, Ctrl:D) or SSTR2a (Ctrl:D+SSTR2a) only. The attenuated glucagon response to hypoglycemia in D (P < 0.0002) was fully restored by SSTR2a (P < 0.0001). Furthermore, the attenuated corticosterone response in D (P < 0.002) was also enhanced by SSTR2a (P < 0.05). In the absence of hypoglycemia, SSTR2a did not alter basal blood glucose levels. D exhibited 62% more pancreatic somatostatin than N after hypoglycemia. In N rats, SSTR2a did not augment the glucagon or corticosterone response to hypoglycemia. Thus, somatostatin may contribute to impaired glucagon responsiveness to hypoglycemia in diabetes. We demonstrate that SSTR2 antagonism enhances hypoglycemia-stimulated glucagon and corticosterone release in D but not in N rats. SSTR2 antagonism does not affect basal glycemia in D rats.
Cellular Mechanisms of Restored β-Cell Tolerance Mediated by Protective Alleles of Idd3 and Idd5
Authors: Hamilton-Williams Emma E. , Cheung Jocelyn , Rainbow Daniel B. , Hunter Kara M. , Wicker Linda S. , Sherman Linda A.
Published: November 2011

Type 1 diabetes genes within the interleukin (IL)-2, cytotoxic T-lymphocyte--associated protein 4 (CTLA-4), and natural resistance-associated macrophage protein (NRAMP1) pathways influence development of autoimmune diabetes in humans and NOD mice. In NOD mice, when present together, protective alleles encoding IL-2, Idd3 candidate gene, CTLA-4, NRAMP1, and acetyl-coenzyme A dehydrogenase, long-chain (ACADL) (candidate genes for the Idd5.1, Idd5.2, and Idd5.3 subregions) provide nearly complete diabetes protection. To define where the protective alleles of Idd3 and the Idd5 subregions must be present to protect from diabetes and tolerize islet-specific CD8+ T cells, SCID mice were reconstituted so that the host and lymphocytes expressed various combinations of protective and susceptibility alleles at Idd3 and Idd5. Although protective Idd3 alleles in the lymphocytes and protective Idd5 alleles in the SCID host contributed most significantly to CD8 tolerance, both were required together in both lymphocyte and nonlymphocyte cells to recapitulate the potent diabetes protection observed in intact Idd3/5 mice. We conclude that genetic regions involved in autoimmune disease are not restricted in their influence to individual cell types. Even a single protective gene product, such as IL-2, must be expressed in both the lymphocytes and dendritic cells to exert its full extent of disease protection. These studies highlight the pleiotropic effects of genes that determine autoimmune disease susceptibility.
Relative Expression of a Dominant Mutated ABCC8 Allele Determines the Clinical Manifestation of Congenital Hyperinsulinism
Authors: Shemer Ruth , Avnon Ziv Carmit , Laiba Efrat , Zhou Qing , Gay Joel , Tunovsky-Babaey Sharona , Shyng Show-Ling , Glaser Benjamin , Zangen David H.
Published: November 2011

Congenital hyperinsulinism (CHI) is most commonly caused by mutations in the β-cell ATP-sensitive K+ (KATP) channel genes. Severe CHI was diagnosed in a 1-day-old girl; the mother’s cousin and sister had a similar phenotype. ABCC8 gene sequencing (leukocyte DNA) revealed a heterozygous, exon 37, six–base pair in-frame insertion mutation in the affected patient and aunt but also in her unaffected mother and grandfather. In expression studies using transfected COSm6 cells, mutant sulfonylurea receptor 1 (SUR1) protein was expressed on the cell surface but failed to respond to MgADP even in the heterozygous state. mRNA expression in lymphocytes determined by sequencing cDNA clones and quantifying 6FAM-labeled PCR products found that although the healthy mother predominantly expressed the normal transcript, her affected daughter, carrying the same mutant allele, primarily transcribed the mutant. The methylation pattern of the imprinting control region of chromosome 11p15.5 and ABCC8 promoter was similar for all family members. In conclusion, differences in transcript expression may determine the clinical phenotype of CHI in this maternally inherited dominant mutation. The use of peripheral lymphocytes as a peripheral window to the β-cell transcription profile can serve in resolving β-cell phenotypes. The severe, dominant-negative nature of the 1508insAS mutation suggests that it affects the functional stoichiometry of SUR1-regulated gating of KATP channels.
n-3 Fatty Acids, Ventricular Arrhythmia–Related Events, and Fatal Myocardial Infarction in Postmyocardial Infarction Patients With Diabetes
Authors: Kromhout Daan , Geleijnse Johanna M. , de Goede Janette , Oude Griep Linda M. , Mulder Barbara J.M. , de Boer Menko-Jan , Deckers Jaap W. , Boersma Eric , Zock Peter L. , Giltay Erik J.
Published: November 2011

OBJECTIVE

We carried out a secondary analysis in high-risk patients with a previous myocardial infarction (MI) and diabetes in the Alpha Omega Trial. We tested the hypothesis that in these patients an increased intake of the n-3 fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and α-linolenic acid (ALA) will reduce the incidence of ventricular arrhythmias and fatal MI.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A subgroup of 1,014 post-MI patients with diabetes aged 60–80 years was randomly allocated to receive one of four trial margarines, three with an additional amount of n-3 fatty acids and one placebo for 40 months. The end points were ventricular arrhythmia–related events and fatal MI. The data were analyzed according to the intention-to-treat principle, using multivariable Cox proportional hazards models.

RESULTS

The patients consumed on average 18.6 g of margarine per day, which resulted in an additional intake of 223 mg EPA plus 149 mg DHA and/or 1.9 g ALA in the active treatment groups. During follow-up, 29 patients developed a ventricular arrhythmia–related events and 27 had a fatal MI. Compared with placebo patients, the EPA-DHA plus ALA group experienced less ventricular arrhythmia–related events (hazard ratio 0.16; 95% CI 0.04–0.69). These n-3 fatty acids also reduced the combined end-point ventricular arrhythmia–related events and fatal MI (0.28; 0.11–0.71).

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that low-dose supplementation of n-3 fatty acids exerts a protective effect against ventricular arrhythmia–related events in post-MI patients with diabetes.
Osteogenic potency of stem cell-based genetic engineering targeting Wnt3a and Wnt9a
Authors: Singhatanadgit Weerachai , Varodomrujiranon Manatsanan
Published: November 2011

Bone engineering is a promising therapeutic approach to correct skeletal defects, and genetically-modified stem cells have been implicated in engineering new bone. However, the use of genetically-modified human mesenchymal stem cells targeting an osteogenic growth factor Wnt is not yet investigated. In the present study, a proliferation assay and the alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and expression of runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2) and osteocalcin (OC) transcripts were investigated to examine the effect of Wnt2 overexpression, Wnt3a overexpression, and Wnt9a knockdown on cell proliferation and osteoblast differentiation of bone marrowderived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs). The results showed that the expression of Wnt2 and Wnt3a was up-regulated throughout the osteoblast differentiation period of BMSCs, whereas that of Wnt9a was down-regulated. Overexpression of Wnt3a stimulated cell proliferation while knockdown of Wnt9a increased the ALP activity and the expression of Runx2 and OC. Double transfection producing Wnt3a overexpression and Wnt9a knockdown simultaneously resulted in up-regulation of osteoblast differentiation markers, i.e., the ALP activity and the Runx2 expression. In conclusion, simultaneous genetic modification of Wnt3a overexpression and Wnt9a knockdown enhances osteoblast differentiation of BMSCs, suggesting its osteogenic potency to regenerate new bone in vivo.
Microarrays—Current and Future Applications in Biomedical Research
Authors: Certa Ulrich
Published: November 2011

Microarrays covers research where microarrays are applied to address complex biological questions. This new open access journal publishes articles where novel applications or state-of-the art technology developments in the field are reported. In addition, novel methods or data analysis algorithms are under the scope of Microarrays. This journal will serve as a platform for fast and efficient sharing of data within this large user community. As one of the first microarray users in Europe back in 1996, I am proud to serve as Editor-in-Chief and I believe we have assembled a highly proficient Editorial Board, responsible for a fair and fast peer-review of articles. [...]
Religious Authority in African American Churches: A Study of Six Churches
Authors: Yeary Karen Hye-cheon Kim
Published: November 2011

A sociological study of religious authority and gender in the context of a rural, impoverished community was conducted in African American churches in one county of the Arkansas Lower Mississippi Delta region to understand relationships between religious leadership, gender, race, and social justice. Three female and three male African American pastors were interviewed as key-informants of their churches to investigate views of female religious authority, and to compare and contrast the congregational culture of female-headed vs. male-headed churches. Among male-headed congregations, views of gender and leadership were complex, with beliefs ranging from no support to full support for female-headed congregations. Two congregational cultures emerged from the data: Congregations with a Social Activist orientation focused on meeting the social needs of the community through Christ, whereas congregations with a Teach the Word orientation stressed the importance of meeting the spiritual needs of the community through knowing the Word of God. Although aspects of both congregational cultures were present to some extentin all six congregations studied, the Social Activist culture played a more dominant narrative in female-headed congregations, whereas the Teach the Word culture was more evident in male-headed congregations. This study reports preliminary information about gender and religious authority in rural African American churches by revealing the different clergy training requirements and church placements of female and male clergy, a myriad of views about female religious authority in the African American faith community, and through uncovering two distinct congregational cultures. This study also enhances understanding on the role of gender in Black churches’ perceptions and interactions with rural, socioeconomically challenged communities.
Alternative Post-Processing on a CMOS Chip to Fabricate a Planar Microelectrode Array
Authors: López-Huerta Francisco , Herrera-May Agustín L. , Estrada-López Johan J. , Zuñiga-Islas Carlos , Cervantes-Sanchez Blanca , Soto Enrique , Soto-Cruz Blanca S.
Published: November 2011

We present an alternative post-processing on a CMOS chip to release a planar microelectrode array (pMEA) integrated with its signal readout circuit, which can be used for monitoring the neuronal activity of vestibular ganglion neurons in newborn Wistar strain rats. This chip is fabricated through a 0.6 µm CMOS standard process and it has 12 pMEA through a 4 ´ 3 electrodes matrix. The alternative CMOS post-process includes the development of masks to protect the readout circuit and the power supply pads. A wet etching process eliminates the aluminum located on the surface of the p+-type silicon. This silicon is used as transducer for recording the neuronal activity and as interface between the readout circuit and neurons. The readout circuit is composed of an amplifier and tunable bandpass filter, which is placed on a 0.015 mm2 silicon area. The tunable bandpass filter has a bandwidth of 98 kHz and a common mode rejection ratio (CMRR) of 87 dB. These characteristics of the readout circuit are appropriate for neuronal recording applications.
Surgical management of first caudal nerve root foraminal compression secondary to intervertebral disc disease in a Cocker Spaniel
Authors: de Vicente F. , Pinilla M. , McConnell J. F. , Bernard F.
Published: November 2011

A nine-year-old spayed female Cocker Spaniel was investigated for an eight week history of licking and rubbing at the tail base, dullness, and signs of pain on manipulation of the tail. Left-sided intraforaminal compression of the first caudal nerve root due to intervertebral disc disease was diagnosed by radiographic, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging examinations. The dog was non-responsive to conservative medical therapy. A decompressive left-sided first-second caudal (Cd1-Cd2) foraminotomy was performed.

Postoperative computed tomography confirmed surgical decompression of the involved nerve root. At the one month follow-up examination there was marked improvement in clinical signs. At two months, clinical signs were completely resolved and there was not any evidence of recurrence twelve months after surgery.

Intervertebral disc disease should be considered as a differential diagnosis in dogs with discomfort at the tail base or signs of pain on manipulation of the tail. Surgical decompression may be indicated for management of these cases.

This is the first report of diagnosis and surgical management of caudal intervertebral disc disease by foraminotomy in the dog. Surgical decompression by foraminotomy may therefore be a treatment option for this condition.
Rapid isolation and cross‐amplification of microsatellite markers in Plectritis congesta (Valerianaceae) with 454 sequencing
Authors: McEwen Jamie R. , Vamosi Jana C. , Rogers Sean M.
Published: November 2011

• Premise of the study: Microsatellite markers were isolated and characterized in Plectritis congesta for studying the evolution of this highly variable species.

• Methods and Results: We used 454 sequencing of DNA enriched for microsatellite repeats to develop microsatellite markers. This produced 262079 reads with an average length of 324 bp, representing approximately 800 microsatellite regions from which 48 primers were tested. Eleven markers reliably amplified without optimization. These primer pairs showed a high degree of heterozygosity and allelic diversity. Unexpectedly, half of the markers contained multiple peaks, with up to four alleles per individual, which suggests that either polyploidy or isolated gene duplication has occurred within this clade. These primers successfully cross‐amplified in P. macrocera, indicating the utility of these markers for the genus.

• Conclusions: With variation in mating system and habitat, a mix of duplicated and nonduplicated markers, and high genetic variance, Plectritis is an ideal candidate model genus for studying the ecological and evolutionary consequences of gene duplication.
Demographic response by a small epiphytic orchid
Authors: Olaya‐Arenas Paola , Meléndez‐Ackerman Elvia J. , Pérez Maria Eglee , Tremblay Raymond
Published: November 2011

• Premise of the study: Biotic changes are an inevitable consequence of climate change. Epiphytes may be more susceptible to changes in climate variation, but data regarding responses to climate variability under field conditions are limited. We evaluated whether the abundance of demographic stages in the epiphytic orchid Lepanthes rupestris at the Luquillo Experimental Forest in Puerto Rico was associated with short‐term changes in climate variation over an 8‐yr period.

• Methods: We used cross‐correlation analyses to evaluate associations between the abundance of seedlings, juveniles, adults, and fruits per subpopulation, population growth, colonization and extinction rates in L. rupestris with variables related to precipitation and temperature, with and without lag‐ responses.

• Key results: We detected significant negative correlations between the average number of seedlings and the number of dry days, between the average number of fruits and minimum average temperature with a 6‐mo response lag, and between the average number of adults and the maximum temperature with a 1‐yr response lag. Neither population growth rate nor probability of colonization and extinction were directly related to climatic variation between 2000 and 2007.

• Conclusions: Associations between climatic variables and demographic stages could have negative implications for this orchid within the context of expected drying trends in the Caribbean. Results argue for the establishment of long‐term monitoring studies of orchid populations, because only long‐term studies would provide the appropriate temporal scale to detect and predict climate change effects and adaptive management of orchid populations.
Impact of the level of complexity in self-sorting: Fabrication of a supramolecular scalene triangle
Authors: Mahata Kingsuk , Schmittel Michael
Published: November 2011

The impact of the level of complexity in self-sorting was elaborated through the fabrication of various scalene triangles. It turned out that the self-sorting system with a higher level of complexity was far superior to less complex sorting algorithms.
THE FINITE PART OF DIVERGENT INTEGRALS WITH LOGARITHMIC FACTORS
Authors: Latt Kaido
Published: November 2011

The concepts of the finite part (f.p.) and analytic finite part (a.f.p.) of divergent integrals are defined in the situation where the singular function in the integral has a logarithmic factor. The change of variables in f.p.- and a.f.p-integrals is examined.
L'illusion du consentement du délinquant à l'acte médical et aux soins en droit pénal
Authors: Mistretta M. Patrick
Published: November 2011

Alors que le Code civil et le Code de la santé publique imposent l’exigence du consentement sans exclusion aucune relative à l’état de condamné de la personne, il est possible d’observer que le consentement constitue en soi une entrave au droit pénal et à sa logique répressive. Dès lors, c’est avec hostilité que le droit pénal français envisage la question du consentement afin de s’en accommoder ou de s’en affranchir. Tantôt en effet, le consentement à l’acte médical est en apparence obtenu (injonction thérapeutique ou de soins), mais il apparaît à l’analyse davantage extorqué que le fruit d’un consentement libre et éclairé. Tantôt, l’exigence du consentement est plus directement écartée (obligations de soins), de sorte qu’au consentement pression, succède le consentement fiction ; le consentement devenant dans les deux cas illusoire pour n’exister que symboliquement en référence à une exigence de principe en droit médical, mais sans aucune existence réelle en droit pénal.
Édification nationale et politique informelle
Authors: Le Vine Victor T.
Published: November 2011

Résumé L’un des problèmes auxquels se heurtent les responsables de l’édification nationale dans les nouveaux États consiste à définir l’attitude à adopter face au secteur informel de leur pays et à sa politique, qui se manifeste non seulement dans l’économie informelle des marchés et des transactions occultes, mais aussi dans ses systèmes d’autorité traditionnels, ses réseaux clientélistes, ses conglomérats d’identités ethniques ou locales, et ses activités illicites liées notamment à la corruption ou à des organisations et groupes criminels. Certains de ces aspects datent de la période coloniale ou d’avant l’indépendance ; d’autres, comme la kleptocratie et la criminalisation de l’État, étant quant à eux imputables au nouvel État et à sa classe dirigeante. Ces problèmes se posent pour une large part dans ce que l’on appelle l’« État juridique », concept juridique-rationnel du nouvel État souverain, et reflètent l’incapacité ou le refus, de la part de ses dirigeants, de passer de l’État juridique à l’« État empirique », c’est-à-dire au stade d’une nation caractérisée par une identité et une citoyenneté communes à tous.
Sortie de conflit et cohésion sociale : douze années d'histoire de l'Afrique du Sud
Authors: Bradshaw Gavin
Published: November 2011

Résumé Le sujet du présent article est l’Afrique du Sud, comme exemple de société en situation de post-conflit. Quel degré de cohésion sociale peut-on espérer au lendemain d’un tel affrontement? L’étude des nombreuses enquêtes d’opinion réalisées récemment dans le pays, à la lumière des théories de l’école analytique de résolution des conflits et de l’évolution récente de la vie politique, montre qu’il existe toujours de profondes lignes de fracture au sein de la société sud-africaine. Tout le problème est de savoir si le compromis politique obtenu en 1994 en faveur de la démocratie pourra résister longtemps encore à l’aggravation persistante des tensions sociales.
La morale publique, la société civile et l'avenir de la démocratie
Authors: Braun Jerome
Published: November 2011

Résumé L’auteur propose un cadre de réflexion pour comparer la capacité des sociétés contemporaines à garantir l’ordre social et la moralité publique. La comparaison porte essentiellement sur l’Amérique et l’Europe, mais aussi, dans une moindre mesure, sur l’Amérique latine et le monde islamique. L’auteur se réfère également à l’ouvrage d’Alain Touraine Qu’est-ce que la démocratie? afin d’analyser la manière dont la démocratie est perçue dans la France d’aujourd’hui, avant d’examiner le rôle respectif des classes moyennes, en tant qu’arbitres des conflits politiques et sociaux, en Amérique et en Europe. Plus généralement, il s’interroge sur les articulations et les convergences ou les divergences éventuelles entre la démocratie sociale et la démocratie politique, en soulignant les aspects culturels de la production de l’ordre social. Considérant les divers mécanismes qu’utilise chaque société pour préserver un certain équilibre entre le gouvernement central et les collectivités locales, et entre les élites et les masses, il montre que ces différences sont dues à des facteurs culturels mais aussi au degré de bureaucratisation de la société. Enfin, il propose un résumé des motivations prééminentes et des principes de gouvernement correspondant aux différents régimes politiques, inspiré de L’esprit des lois de Montesquieu.
Ce que nous avons appris sur la construction nationale et la société civile
Authors: McCall George J.
Published: November 2011

Résumé Les concepts de construction nationale et de société civile sont profondément enracinés dans la théorie sociale positive, mais ils sont aussi devenus d’importants concepts normatifs dans le contexte de l’aide internationale. Même dans son usage normatif, le concept de société civile a plusieurs significations, très différentes les unes des autres puisqu’on peut distinguer au moins quatre modèles dans le contexte de l’aide internationale. Le concept normatif actuel de construction nationale présente lui aussi plusieurs significations, qui sont apparemment fonction des modèles de société civile. De quelque façon qu’on la conçoive, la construction nationale rencontre de graves problèmes : sur le plan extérieur, un problème d’échelle dans la mesure où elle est souvent débordée par la mondialisation; sur le plan intérieur, où la somme des interactions civiles n’a pas toujours pour effet de la faciliter.
La mondialisation et les conséquences politiques du pluralisme négatif
Authors: Apter David E.
Published: November 2011

Résumé Prenant l’exemple de l’Afrique, l’auteur montre comment une mondialisation placée sous le signe d’un capitalisme innovant qui s’appuie sur les technologies de pointe tend à marginaliser les masses laborieuses au seul profit d’une élite maîtrisant les connaissances et techniques les plus modernes; il en résulte un véritable clivage entre les deux groupes, marqué par une aggravation de la fracture sociale et par la montée de la précarité, ce qui aboutit à une forme de pluralisme qui favorise plutôt l’affrontement que la conciliation. Dans un tel contexte, la défense des intérêts particuliers érigée en principe encourage l’émergence d’affiliations, de loyalismes et autorités particularistes, dans un climat propice à toutes les violences.
La violence fondée sur le sexe. Enquête auprès d'un échantillon d'Iraquiennes
Authors: Lafta Riyadh K. , Al-Saffar Atheer J. , Eissa Sahar A. , Al-Nuaimi Maha A.
Published: November 2011

Résumé Les auteurs de cet article se sont proposé d’évaluer et d’analyser le taux de violence contre les femmes en Iraq. Jusqu’à une époque récente, on estimait dans ce pays que la violence fondée sur le sexe relevait de la sphère privée ou familiale. Mais l’opinion des Iraquiens sur ce type de violence évolue depuis quelques années, et ils y voient aujourd’hui un problème de santé publique et une violation des droits de la personne humaine. Afin de comprendre ce problème, les auteurs ont mené une enquête sur la situation des femmes en Iraq, en accordant une attention particulière à la violence fondée sur le sexe. Ils ont ainsi découvert que la violence contre les femmes était surtout le fait des maris et des frères. Ils ont essayé d’expliquer ce comportement violent en analysant les réponses d’un échantillon de 1 000 femmes et de 100 hommes. Cette analyse montre que la violence fondée sur le sexe constitue un problème médico-social très répandu en Iraq, et qu’il faut intervenir rapidement et en profondeur pour la prévenir ou du moins la limiter. Les auteurs ont entrepris cette étude pour définir des mesures capables de prévenir la violence fondée sur le sexe et de modifier les normes en vigueur concernant la répartition des rôles sociaux et les limites de la tolérance sociale.