bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reshaping biological membranes in endocytosis: crossing the configurational space of membrane-protein interactions
Authors: Simunovic Mijo , Bassereau Patricia
Published: December 2013

Lipid membranes are highly dynamic. Over several decades, physicists and biologists have uncovered a number of ways they can change the shape of membranes or alter their phase behavior. In cells, the intricate action of membrane proteins drives these processes. Considering the highly complex ways proteins interact with biological membranes, molecular mechanisms of membrane remodeling still remain unclear. When studying membrane remodeling phenomena, researchers often observe different results, leading them to disparate conclusions on the physiological course of such processes. Here we discuss how combining research methodologies and various experimental conditions contributes to the understanding of the entire phase space of membrane-protein interactions. Using the example of clathrin-mediated endocytosis we try to distinguish the question ‘how can proteins remodel the membrane?’ from ‘how do proteins remodel the membrane in the cell?’ In particular, we consider how altering physical parameters may affect the way membrane is remodeled. Uncovering the full range of physical conditions under which membrane phenomena take place is key in understanding the way cells take advantage of membrane properties in carrying out their vital tasks.
Controlling Perimeters, Controlling Lives:Israel and Gaza
Authors: Bashi Sari
Published: December 2013

This article analyzes the way in which the Israeli military exercises control over life in Gaza by regulating who and what may enter or leave. Using primary source documents obtained via the Freedom of Information Act proceedings, the article details a military bureaucracy that micro-manages requests to move people and goods through Gaza’s crossings. For example, the transfer of chickpea paste requires approval from a senior military official holding the rank of major general, and soldiers evaluate the quality of care offered to an orphan by his or her surviving parent, as a condition of authorizing the child’s passage to his parent’s home. The article discusses the effects of such control on the lives of those inside Gaza, including their exercise of rights and their social and economic choices. It then explores the motivations behind the restrictions, relying on statements and actions by Israeli officials. The article extends the current literature on deliberately nonrational bureaucracies in the context of rule by a foreign power by showing how the Israeli military bureaucracy maintains some functions of control over the local population in Gaza, despite its withdrawal and dismantling of its military government. It concludes by noting that the effects of the travel restrictions and their purpose are relevant to the normative debate over their legitimacy and suggests areas for further research.
Soft computing techniques for compressive strength prediction of concrete cylinders strengthened by CFRP composites
Authors: Jalal Mostafa
Published: December 2013

This study presents the application of soft computing techniques, namely, as multiple regressions (MRs), neural networks (NNs), genetic programming (GP), and adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) for modeling of compressive strength of carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) confined concrete cylinders. The proposed soft computing models are based on experimental results collected from literature. They represent the ultimate strength of concrete cylinders after confinement with CFRP composites, which is in terms of diameter and height of the cylindrical specimen, ultimate circumferential strain in the CFRP jacket, elastic modulus of CFRP, unconfined concrete strength, and total thickness of CFRP layer used. The accuracy of the proposed soft computing models is very satisfactory compared to experimental results. Moreover, the results of proposed soft computing models are compared with five models existing in the literature proposed by various researchers so far and are found to be, by far, more accurate.
Crystal structure and spectral properties of complexes of tetravalent Th, U,
Np and Pu nitrates with trimethyl phosphate and dimethyl phosphate
Authors: Charushnikova I. A. , Budantseva N. A. , Fedosseev A. M. , Moisy P. , Den Auwer C.
Published: December 2013

Single crystals of [Th(TMP)6(NO3)2][Th(TMP)2(NO3)5]2 (1),
[Th(TMP)4(NO3)3][Th(TMP)2(NO3)5] (2),
[U(DMP)3(NO3)] (3), [Np(DMP)3(NO3)] (4), and
[Pu(DMP)2(NO3)2(H2O)]·H2O (5) have been synthesized and their structures have been
determined by X-ray analysis. IR and optical spectra of polycrystalline compounds 3 and 4 were measured at
room temperature. The Th(IV) is crystallized as two complexes with TMP molecular ligands and NO3 anions in coordination
environment. The Th atoms in cationic moieties of 1 and 2 are characterized by coordination number of 10 and
in the anionic moieties by coordination number of 12. Compounds of U(IV), Np(IV) and Pu(IV) were obtained with two different
anions (NO3 and DMP) in coordination environment of the central atom. U(IV) and Np(IV) compounds are isostructural and the
main motif of structure is made of infinite chains of [An(DMP)3(NO3)]
n
, twisted around hexagonal axes. In the
structure of Pu(IV) the main structural motif is made of infinite chains [Pu(DMP)2(NO3)2(H2O)]
n
,
extending along the b axis. The coordination numbers of An(IV) are equal to 8 for U and Np, and 9 for Pu. The difference in
the structure and composition of formed compounds Th and U, Np, Pu could be explained by hydrolysis of TMP at the synthesis
conditions.
Development of a radiothallium (III) labeld porphyrin complex as a potential
imaging agent
Authors: Fazaeli Y. , Jalilian A. R. , Feizi S. , Shadanpour N.
Published: December 2013

Since 201Tl is widely used in SPECT and porphyrins are important biological carriers, we tried to obtain a stable
complex between thallium and porphyrins. The thallium porphyrin complex was synthesized by reaction of 201Tl(III)
with porphyrin at 5,10,15,20-tetrakis(pentafluorophenyl)porphyrin (H2PFPP) for 60 min at 100°C. The
complex was analysed via TLC and HPLC stability (in the final formulation and human serum) and the partition
coefficient of the complex was determined. The biodistribution of the labeled compound in vital organs of wild-type rats was
investigated. The complex was prepared with high radiochemical purity (> 99% ITLC, > 99% HPLC, specific
activity: 13–14 GBq/mmol) (log P = 1.92). The stability of the Tl+3-complex seems to be low since the
complex or free thallium is rapidly cleared through the kidneys and the liver.
Predictions of redox potentials of Sg in acid solutions as a function of pH
Authors: Pershina V.
Published: December 2013

Redox potentials of Sg in acid solutions as a function of pH are predicted. The work is based on earlier estimates of standard
redox potentials via a correlation with multiple ionization potentials of group-6 elements calculated using
a multiconfiguration Dirac–Fock method. As expected, most of the potentials, except for those from the M3+ to the M2+
and M (M = Cr, Mo, W and Sg) states, decrease with increasing pH, with the most pronounced effect for the
M
IV
/M
III
couple. The obtained values show that the reduction of Sg to the IV and III states should be
feasible in HCl solutions in a pH range from 0 to 3 or 4.
Effects of raloxifene and estrogen on bioactive IGF1 in GH-deficient women
Authors: Birzniece Vita , Magnusson Nils Erik , Ho Ken K Y , Frystyk Jan
Published: December 2013

Context

GH action is attenuated by estrogens and selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) administered orally. During GH therapy in hypopituitary women, co-treatment with raloxifene, a SERM, induced a smaller gain in lean body mass (LBM) compared with estrogen, despite an equal reduction in IGF1. As a higher IGF-binding protein-3 (IGFBP3) level was observed with raloxifene co-treatment, we hypothesize that an increase in IGFBP3 reduced IGF1 bioactivity causing the attenuated anabolic effect.

Objective

To assess the effects of 17β-estradiol (E2) and raloxifene on bioactive IGF1.

Design

In study 1, 12 GH-deficient (GHD) women were randomized to raloxifene 120 mg/day or E24 mg/day for 1 month. In study 2, 16 GHD women were randomized to 1 month GH treatment alone (0.5 mg/day) and in combination with raloxifene (60 mg/day) or E2(2 mg/day). We measured bioactive IGF1, immunoreactive IGF1 and IGF2, and IGFBP3 immunoreactivity and fragmentation.

Results

Raloxifene and estrogen suppressed (P<0.05) total IGF1 equally in GHD and GH-replaced hypopituitary women. In GHD patients, neither raloxifene nor estrogen affected bioactive IGF1. GH significantly increased IGF1 bioactivity, an effect attenuated by co-treatment with raloxifene (Δ −23±7%,P<0.01) and estrogen (Δ −26±3%,P=0.06). Total IGF1 correlated (r2=0.54,P<0.001) with bioactive IGF1, which represented 3.1±0.2% of the total IGF1, irrespective of the treatments. Total IGF2 was unchanged by raloxifene and estrogen treatment. IGFBP3 was significantly higher during raloxifene administration, whereas no differences in IGFBP3 fragmentation were observed.

Conclusion

Raloxifene effect on bioactive IGF1 is similar to that of estrogen despite higher IGFBP3 levels during raloxifene administration. We conclude that the observed different effects on LBM between raloxifene and estrogen treatments cannot be explained by differences in IGF1 bioactivity.
Characterization of Mortar with Mineral Additives
Authors: Mejía Durán M. R. , Torres Acosta A. A. , Arroyo Contreras M.G. , Rendón Belmonte M.
Published: December 2013

It has been an increase on the number of concrete structures with corrosion induced damage in Mexico in recent years. It is also well known that cathodic protection (CP) is the only method that stops corrosion in an efficient way. Since the 1990’s Florida and other USA states have been installing in concrete pile substructures, in bridges and piers, a three part hybrid galvanic CP system. This hybrid galvanic CP system includes a thermal sprayed part (located at the aerial zone of the pile), a zinc mesh encapsulated in mortar and inside a glass fiber jacket (located at the change in ties zone), and a submerged zinc bulk anode (in the submerged zone). From a previous investigation performed by the present authors, it has been found that the mortar inside the fiberglass form may decrease the mesh anode activation and thus decrease the CP system efficiency. Therefore, this investigation includes an evaluation of different additions placed in mortar to increase its electrical and ionic conductivity to increase the efficiency of the entire hybrid system. Additions include carbon, zinc and alumina powders, and this investigation presents preliminary experimental results obtained from the tested mortars (i.e. mortar physical characterization: electrical resistivity, ultrasonic pulse velocity, and total void content).
Adubação com fósforo e potássio para produção e qualidade de sementes de soja
Authors: Batistella Filho Felipe , Ferreira Manoel Evaristo , Vieira Roberval Daiton , Cruz Mara Cristina Pessôa da , Centurion Maria Aparecida Pessôa da Cruz , Sylvestre Thiago de Barros , Ruiz Juan Gabriel Cristhoffer Lopes
Published: December 2013

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar os efeitos da adubação com fósforo e potássio na produção e na qualidade de sementes de soja. Foram realizados experimentos em dois anos agrícolas, em delineamento de blocos ao acaso, em arranjo fatorial 5x3, com cinco doses de fósforo (0, 40, 80, 120 e 160 kg ha‑1 de P2O5 como superfosfato triplo), três de potássio (0, 50 e 100 kg ha‑1 de K2O como cloreto de potássio) e quatro repetições. Foram avaliados: produtividade, número de sementes por planta, número de vagens por planta, peso de mil sementes, germinação, vigor (envelhecimento acelerado, condutividade elétrica e lixiviação de potássio), e teores de P e K na folha e na semente. A produtividade, o peso de mil sementes e a produção de vagens e de grãos por planta aumentaram linearmente com a adubação fosfatada. O aumento na produtividade foi de 17,6%, no primeiro ano, e de 39,7% no segundo. As doses de P, no entanto, não interferiram na germinação e no vigor das sementes. A adubação potássica não altera a produtividade nem a concentração de K nas sementes, mas pode melhorar a germinação, sem interferir no vigor.
Teores de colesterol e oxidação lipídica em hambúrguer bovino com adição de linhaça dourada e derivados
Authors: Novello Daiana , Pollonio Marise Aparecida Rodrigues
Published: December 2013

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o efeito da adição de linhaça‑dourada e derivados sobre os teores de colesterol e a oxidação lipídica em hambúrguer bovino. Foram elaborados hambúrgueres com 5,0% de óleo, ou farinha, ou sementes de linhaça‑dourada, além de uma formulação‑controle (sem adição de linhaça ou derivados). Os hambúrgueres foram mantidos congelados, a ‑18ºC, por 90 dias. Determinou-se o teor de colesterol e a estabilidade oxidativa dos produtos crus e grelhados. Os menores teores de colesterol foram observados nos produtos com óleo de linhaça. No entanto, a adição de linhaça e derivados aumentou a oxidação lipídica em hambúrguer bovino (maiores valores de malonaldeído), após o armazenamento.
Growth of Crassostrea gasar cultured in marine and estuary environments in Brazilian waters
Authors: Lopes Gustavo Ruschel , Gomes Carlos Henrique Araujo de Miranda , Tureck Cláudio Rudolfo , Melo Claudio Manuel Rodrigues de
Published: December 2013

The objective of this work was to evaluate the growth of the mangrove oyster Crassostrea gasar cultured in marine and estuarine environments. Oysters were cultured for 11 months in a longline system in two study sites - São Francisco do Sul and Florianópolis -, in the state of Santa Catarina, Southern Brazil. Water chlorophyll-α concentration, temperature, and salinity were measured weekly. The oysters were measured monthly (shell size and weight gain) to assess growth. At the end of the culture period, the average wet flesh weight, dry flesh weight, and shell weight were determined, as well as the distribution of oysters per size class. Six nonlinear models (logistic, exponential, Gompertz, Brody, Richards, and Von Bertalanffy) were adjusted to the oyster growth data set. Final mean shell sizes were higher in São Francisco do Sul than in Florianópolis. In addition, oysters cultured in São Francisco do Sul were more uniformly distributed in the four size classes than those cultured in Florianópolis. The highest average values of wet flesh weight and shell weight were observed in São Francisco do Sul, whereas dry flesh weight did not differ between the sites. The estuary environment is more promising for the cultivation of oysters.
Parâmetros metabólicos de pacus alimentados com diferentes fontes de óleo
Authors: Ribeiro Paula Adriane Perez , Costa Leandro Santos , Pereira Raquel Tatiane , Murgas Luis Davis Solis , Vieira e Rosa Priscila
Published: December 2013

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar parâmetros metabólicos de pacus (Piaractus mesopotamicus) alimentados com dietas com diferentes óleos. O experimento foi conduzido em laboratório, em maio de 2009, durante 28 dias. Foram utilizados 64 pacus com peso inicial de 61 g, mantidos em tanques de 250 L. Os tratamentos foram: dieta controle mais óleo de oliva; dieta controle mais óleo de milho; dieta controle mais óleo de peixe; e dieta controle mais óleo de milho e de peixe. Utilizou-se o delineamento inteiramente casualizado, com quatro repetições, em arranjo fatorial 4x4 (quatro dietas e quatro tempos de coleta: 7, 14, 21 e 28 dias). Foram avaliados: níveis sanguíneos de colesterol e lipoproteínas, composição química muscular, e atividade de glicose-6-fosfato desidrogenase (G6PD) e enzima málica (EM). Os dados foram submetidos à análise de variância, à comparação das médias pelo teste de Tukey, e à análise de regressão. Não houve diferença nos teores musculares de umidade e cinzas, mas foram observadas alterações na deposição lipídica e proteica, conforme os tempos de coleta, em todos os tratamentos. As dietas interferiram nos parâmetros sanguíneos avaliados. A atividade de G6PD é superior à da EM, sendo maior nos animais alimentados com óleo de oliva e milho, o que sugere maior deposição lipídica muscular nestes peixes. Portanto, o metabolismo lipídico do pacu é influenciado pela composição do lipídio da dieta.
Pesque-solte: pesca repetitiva, variáveis hematológicas e parasitismo no peixe híbrido tambacu
Authors: Varandas Daniela Nomura , Martins Maurício Laterça , Moraes Flávio Ruas de , Ramos Fabrício Menezes , Santos Rudã Fernandes Brandão , Fujimoto Rodrigo Yudi
Published: December 2013

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a resposta hematológica e parasitológica de tambacus (Colossoma macropomum x Piaractus mesopotamicus) submetidos ao estresse de captura e a diferentes densidades de estocagem, em sistema de pesque-solte. Foram utilizados 210 peixes com peso médio inicial de 785,33±152,02 g e comprimento total médio de 34,43±2,21 cm, mantidos em viveiros escavados e divididos em três grupos: sem pesca e baixa densidade (G1), com pesca e baixa densidade (G2), e com pesca e alta densidade (G3). Não houve diferença significativa entre os valores médios da concentração de hemoglobina, do número de eritrócitos, da contagem diferencial de leucócitos e da glicose. Os peixes do grupo G3 apresentaram número maior de parasitos e trombócitos, e menor ganho de peso e hematócrito. A atividade de pesque-solte, aliada à alta densidade de estocagem, pode prejudicar o equilíbrio orgânico e o desempenho zootécnico, o que favorece a parasitose.
Plasma levels of luteinizing hormone and gonadal maturation of lambari females under different photoperiods
Authors: Navarro Fernanda Keley Silva Pereira , Navarro Rodrigo Diana , Murgas Luis David Solis , Pereira Marina Apocalypse Nogueira , Hundley Guilherme Crispim
Published: December 2013

The objective of this work was to evaluate the effect of photoperiod on luteinizing hormone (LH) plasma levels and gonadal maturation of lambari females. One hundred and twenty adult lambaris, distributed into 12 aquaria of 20 L each, were randomly subjected to three different treatments, in a completely randomized design, and four replicates. Treatments were photoperiods in hours of light (L) and darkness (D): T1, 0 L:24 D; T2, 12 L:12 D; T3, 24 L:0 D. After 40 days, fish were subjected to fasting for 24 hours and, then, anesthetized. Immediately after slaughter, fish were weighed, and their gonads and livers were removed and weighed. Ovaries were weighed and immersed in Bouin's fixative solution for 24 hours and, then, kept in 70% alcohol until processing the material. Subsequently, the oocyte developmental stage was determined. No significant differences were observed between treatments for final weight, ovary weight, gonadosomatic index (GSI), hepatosomatic index (HSI) and LH levels. In all treatments, lambari females showed maturing ovaries with prevalence of vitellogenic oocytes. Photoperiod does not affect the LH levels and ovarian maturation in lambari females.
Eugenol as an anesthetic for juvenile common snook
Authors: Bernardes Júnior Jurandir Joaquim , Nakagome Fernando Kojima , Mello Giovanni Lemos de , Garcia Silvano , Amaral Júnior Hilton
Published: December 2013

The objective of this work was to evaluate the efficacy of eugenol as an anesthetic for juvenile common snook, and to determine the minimum effective concentration for use in handling procedures. In the first trial, juvenile common snook were subjected to immersion baths at 25, 50, 75, 100, 125, and 150 mg L-1 eugenol concentrations, after which induction and recovery times were evaluated. In the second experiment, the lethal exposure time (LT50) at 75 mg L-1 was estimated. Minimum effective eugenol concentration was 50 mg L-1, andthe stage of deep anesthesia and recovery were, respectively, reached at 126.3 and 208.8 s. At 75 mg L-1, LT50 was 1,314 s, and induction time and recovery were also satisfactory; however, fish cannot tolerate over 229 s exposure.
Finding Joy in Social Work: Interpersonal Sources
Authors: Pooler David K. , Wolfer Terry A. , Freeman Miriam L.
Published: December 2013

Despite the social work profession's strengths orientation, research on its workforce tends to focus on problems (e.g., depression, problem drinking, compassion fatigue, and burnout). In contrast, this study explored ways in which social workers find joy in their work. We used an appreciative inquiry approach, semistructured interviews ( n = 26), and a collaborative grounded theory method of analysis. Participants identified interpersonal ( making connections and making a difference) and intrapersonal ( making meaning and making a life) sources of joy and reflected significant personal initiative in the process of finding joy. The focus of this article is on the interpersonal sources of joy of making connections and making a difference. We discuss implications for social work practice.
Morphology of a droplet deposited on a strip and triangular groove
Authors: Dokowicz Marcin , Nowicki Waldemar
Published: December 2013

The behavior of a droplet deposited on solid surfaces, one in the shape of a narrow strip and the other in the shape of a groove of triangular cross-section, was studied. Surface/interface energy of the droplet on the surfaces was calculated. In addition, Laplace pressure and linear size of the droplet were determined. Unexpected dependence of the shape of the droplet placed on the triangular groove on its volume, that is, the jumpwise change in the droplet shape taking place on increasing of its volume, was revealed. This change was found to show some features of a second-order phase transition.
Placing unprecedented recent fir growth in a European‐wide and Holocene‐long context
Authors: Büntgen Ulf , Tegel Willy , Kaplan Jed O , Schaub Marcus , Hagedorn Frank , Bürgi Matthias , Brázdil Rudolf , Helle Gerhard , Carrer Marco , Heussner Karl-Uwe , Hofmann Jutta , Kontic Raymond , Kyncl Tomáš , Kyncl Josef , Camarero J Julio , Tinner Willy , Esper Jan , Liebhold Andrew
Published: December 2013

Forest decline played a pivotal role in motivating Europe's political focus on sustainability around 35 years ago. Silver fir (Abies alba) exhibited a particularly severe dieback in the mid‐1970s, but disentangling biotic from abiotic drivers remained challenging because both spatial and temporal data were lacking. Here, we analyze 14 136 samples from living trees and historical timbers, together with 356 pollen records, to evaluate recent fir growth from a continent‐wide and Holocene‐long perspective. Land use and climate change influenced forest growth over the past millennium, whereas anthropogenic emissions of acidic sulfates and nitrates became important after about 1850. Pollution control since the 1980s, together with a warmer but not drier climate, has facilitated an unprecedented surge in productivity across Central European fir stands. Restricted fir distribution prior to the Mesolithic and again in the Modern Era, separated by a peak in abundance during the Bronze Age, is indicative of the long‐term interplay of changing temperatures, shifts in the hydrological cycle, and human impacts that have shaped forest structure and productivity.
Evaluation of the Fatigue Performance and Degradability of Resorbable PLDLLA-TMC Osteofixations
Authors: Landes Constantin , Ballon Alexander , Ghanaati Shahram , Ebel Daniel , Ulrich Dieter , Spohn Uwe , Heunemann Ute , Sader Robert , Jaeger Raimund
Published: December 2013

The fatigue performance of explantedin-situdegraded osteofixations/osteosyntheses, fabricated from poly (70L-lactide-co-24DL-lactide-6-trimethylane-carbonate or PLDLLA-TMC) copolymer was compared to that of virgin products. The fatigue test was performed on 21 explants retrieved from 12 women and 6 men; 16-46 years by a custom-designed three-point bend apparatus using a staircase method and a specified failure criterion (an increase of the deflection of the specimen > 1 mm) with run-out designated as “no failure” after 150,000 loading cycles. While all the virgin products showed run-out at 38N, all of the specimens fabricated from explants failed at this load level. For the explant specimens, although there was a trend of decreased failure load with increasedin-situtime, this decrease was pronounced after 4 monthsin-situ, however, not yet statistically significant, while a 6-monthin-situexplant had significantly less failure load. Three and four monthin-situexplants had highly significant differences in failure load between measurements close and distant to the osteotomy line: p=0.0017 (the region of maximum loadin-situ). In the virgin products, there were only traces of melt joining and cooling, left from a stage in the manufacturing process. For the implants retrieved after 4.5 monthsin-situ, the fracture surfaces showed signs of degradation of the implants, possibly caused by hydrolysis, and for those retrieved after 9 monthsin-situ, there were cracks and pores. Thus, the morphological results are consistent with those obtained in the fatigue test. The present results suggest that resorbable osteofixations fabricated from PLDLLA-TMC are stable enough to allow loading of the healing bone and degrade reliably
Reforms of pension system and problem of aging population
Authors: Sukovic Danilo
Published: December 2013

This paper analyzes the far-reaching changes on social plane caused by aging
population which endanger social security for old people, especially in times
of global economic crisis and major changes in the labor market. A special
emphasis is given to the economic unsustainability of the pension system in
Serbia, where the ratio of the aging population and the working population is
very unfavorable, and where high unemployment and weak economic growth
threaten an aging population and increase the poverty. The analysis shows
that pensions in Serbia in recent years have a real decline, and their
relation to average earnings is still unfavorable despite large subsidies
from the state budget which last years covers about 50 % of the expenditure
for pensions. The second part of the paper discusses the advantages and
disadvantages of PAYG (pay as you go) pension system and private pension
insurance. The advantage of PAYG pension system is that it protects the
retired persons' savings which would not be lost due to extraordinary market
circumstances, such as wars, high inflation, etc. This system avoids the risk
of a failed investment opportunities, which is the biggest weakness of
private pension funds. In addition, the population trust this system
believing that the government will not allow them to live in poverty when
they get old. The key advantage of the private pension system is that this
system realizes the economic function of pensions, because contributions paid
are saving for their old age. Also, the placement of pension contributions to
the capital market increase the return on investment and total government
savings, which contribute to higher economic growth. Advantages of one
pension system are actually weaknesses of another. Since the system "pay as
you go" has proved ineffective to provide pension funding for the elderly
population, which is increasing due to longer life expectancy, and its
relationship to the working population is more unfavorable, it is necessary
to introduce the pension reform, which has already more or less successfully
implemented in many countries of the world. Globalization and especially the
global economic crisis have made this issue particularly urgent. Finally, it
is noted that the pension reform in Serbia should not just include leaving
the system "pay as you go" and a gradual transition to a private pension
plan. Also, it is necessary to implement the long overdue economic reforms to
achieve significant long-term economic growth, because only higher economic
growth can create the material conditions for desired changes in the pension
system.
The fabrication and optical detection of a vertical structure organic thin film transistor
Authors: Zhang H. , Wang D. , Jia P.
Published: December 2013

Using vacuum evaporation and sputtering process, we prepared a photoelectric transistor with the vertical structure of Cu/copper phthalocyanine (CuPc)/Al/copper phthalocyanine (CuPc)/ITO. The material of CuPc semiconductor has good photosensitive properties. Excitons will be generated after the optical signal irradiation in semiconductor material, and then transformed into photocurrent under the built-in electric field formed by the Schottky contact, as the organic transistor drive current makes the output current enlarged. The results show that the I–V characteristics of transistor are unsaturated. When device was irradiated by full band (white) light, its working current significantly increased. In full band white light, when Vec = 3 V, the ratio of light and no light current was ranged for 2.9–6.4 times. Device in the absence of light current amplification coefficient is 16.5, and white light amplification coefficient is 98.65.
A robust SVD-based image watermarking using a multi-objective particle swarm optimization
Authors: Loukhaoukha K. , Nabti M. , Zebbiche K.
Published: December 2013

The major objective in developing a robust digital watermarking algorithm is to obtain the highest possible robustness without losing the visual imperceptibility. To achieve this objective, we proposed in this paper an optimal image watermarking scheme using multi-objective particle swarm optimization (MOPSO) and singular value decomposition (SVD) in wavelet domain. Having decomposed the original image into ten sub-bands, singular value decomposition is applied to a chosen detail sub-band. Then, the singular values of the chosen sub-band are modified by multiple scaling factors (MSF) to embed the singular values of watermark image. Various combinations of multiple scaling factors are possible, and it is difficult to obtain optimal solutions. Thus, in order to achieve the highest possible robustness and imperceptibility, multi-objective optimization of the multiple scaling factors is necessary. This work employs particle swarm optimization to obtain optimum multiple scaling factors. Experimental results of the proposed approach show both the significant improvement in term of imperceptibility and robustness under various attacks.
Comparative Study of Duration of Orthodontic Treatment among Nepalese Adolescent and Adult Patients
Authors: Bhattarai Prakash , Shrestha Rabindra M
Published: December 2013

The purpose of this study is to compare the duration of orthodontic treatment among Nepalese adolescent and adult orthodontic patients. A total of 134 adolescent patients and 46 adult patients who have completed the orthodontic treatment from The Orthodontic Center (TOC) were randomly selected. All patients were treated with straight wire brackets. Transferred patients, impacted canine, two-phase treated patients and previous orthodontic treated patients were excluded. The result of the study found that the average duration of treatment for adolescent was 30.38 months while that for the adult was 28.83 months. The independent sample t test revealed that there is no clinical significant difference in adolescent and adult patients in duration of orthodontic treatment
Restoration Made Possible with Forced Orthodontic Eruption of Endodontically Treated Unrestorable Tooth: A Case Report
Authors: Shrestha Sandhya , Shrestha Rabindra M , Dahal Marisha
Published: December 2013

Post endodontic restoration in cases of grossly destructed teeth are difficult as the available tooth structure is less, margins are subgingival and of compromised prognosis because the restoration might encroach upon the periodontium affecting its status to deteriorate. Interdisciplinary approach using forced eruption or Orthodontic extrusion along with minimal surgical crown lengthening can give adequate supragingival tooth surface for proper restoration and protect its root support from getting violated. This is the case report of an unsalvageable tooth that is restored to satisfactory functional and esthetic restoration utilizing interdisciplinary approach.
Agenesis of Third Molars in Orthodontic Patients attending Dhulikhel Hospital
Authors: Upadhyaya Chandan , Adhikari Bhoj Raj , Kafle Dashrath , Humagain Manoj
Published: December 2013

Aims and objective: The aim of this descriptive study was to determine the prevalence of agenesis or congenitally missing third molars in orthodontic patients attending Dhulikhel Hospital.

Materials & Methods: A retrospective study of a total of 294 patients, of both genders ranging from 12 to 34 years of age who were orthodontically treated between August, 2010 to May 2012, were reviewed from the files of the Department of Orthodontics, Dhulikhel Hospital, Kathmandu University Hospital. The records included panoramic radiographs and study models of all patients with intra oral photographs at the beginning of treatment.

Results: It shows that agenesis of one to four third molars was present in male group in 63 cases out of 94, i.e, 67.02% and in the female group in 85 cases out of 200, i.e. in 42.5%. In the group of male and female together, we found the agenesis of one to four third molars in 148 cases, which is 50.34 %.

Conclusions: Data concerning the incidence of third molars agenesis belong to the essential characteristics of the dentition's status of the given population. Dental developmental anomalies can indicate the degree of genetic load of individuals and relatives. By analyzing the global term "agenesis of one to four third molars" it is possible to receive data, which are quite significant for the orthodontic treatment plan.
CBS Appliance: The Appliance of Choice for Distalization of Maxillary Molars
Authors: Shrestha Situ Lal , Chumakov AN , Bobrov DV , Jaiswal Alok Kumar
Published: December 2013

No abstract available.
Experimental Study of Sustainable Asphalt Binder
Authors: Hu Jianying , Yu Xiong (Bill)
Published: December 2013

Asphalt pavements are widely used in highways because of their good performance and relatively low construction and maintenance costs. However, the black color of asphalt binder implies that sunlight is not reflected but absorbed; the absorption raises the temperature of the asphalt pavement and impairs its long-term durability. Thermochromic materials can change their colors in response to temperature. These materials reflect solar energy at high temperatures and absorb it at low temperatures. This study investigated the use of thermochromic materials in asphalt binder to develop a thermochromic asphalt binder that would reduce the surface temperature of asphalt pavement during the summer and lead to improved durability. The thermal and phase transition properties of thermochromic materials were characterized by differential scanning calorimetry and modulated differential scanning calorimetry. Comparison measurements showed that the surface temperature of thermochromic asphalt binder was lower than that of the conventional asphalt binder, with a maximum decrease as high as 6.6°C during a typical summer day in Cleveland, Ohio, in the northeastern United States. Experimental results also indicated that the temperature dropped more slowly in the thermochromic asphalts than in regular asphalt subjected to simulated winter temperatures. This finding suggests that compared with traditional asphalt, thermochromic asphalt could delay ice formation on road surfaces; such a delay is an important potential benefit for road safety in cold regions.
Three-Phase Primary Control for Unbalance Sharing between Distributed Generation Units in a Microgrid
Authors: Vandoorn Tine , De Kooning Jeroen , Van de Vyver Jan , Vandevelde Lieven
Published: December 2013

For islanded microgrids, droop-based control concepts have been developed both in single and three-phase variants. The three-phase controllers often assume a balanced network; hence, unbalance sharing and/or mitigation remains a challenging issue. Therefore, in this paper, unbalance is considered in a three-phase islanded microgrid in which the distributed generation (DG) units are operated by the voltage-based droop (VBD) control. For this purpose, the VBD control, which has been developed for single-phase systems, is extended for a three-phase application and an additional control loop is added for unbalance mitigation and sharing. The method is based on an unbalance mitigation scheme by DG units in grid-connected systems, which is altered for usage in grid-forming DG units with droop control. The reaction of the DG units to unbalance is determined by the main parameter of the additional control loop, viz., the distortion damping resistance, Rd. The effect of Rd on the unbalance mitigation is studied in this paper, i.e., dependent on Rd, the DG units can be resistive for unbalance (RU) or they can contribute in the weakest phase (CW). The paper shows that the RU method decreases the line losses in the system and achieves better power equalization between the DG unit’s phases. However, it leads to a larger voltage unbalance near the loads. The CW method leads to a more uneven power between the DG unit’s phases and larger line losses, but a better voltage quality near the load. However, it can negatively affect the stability of the system. In microgrids with multiple DG units, the distortion damping resistance is set such that the unbalanced load can be shared between multiple DG units in an actively controlled manner rather than being determined by the microgrid configuration solely. The unit with the lowest distortion damping resistance provides relatively more of the unbalanced currents.
Sexual Diversity in the Judiciary in England and Wales; Research on Barriers to Judicial Careers
Authors: Moran Leslie
Published: December 2013

Debates about the diversity of the judiciary in the UK have been dominated by gender, race and ethnicity. Sexuality is notable by its absence and is perceived to pose particular challenges. It is usually missing from the list of diversity categories. When present, its appearance is nominal. One effect of this has been a total lack of official data on the sexual composition of the judiciary. Another is the gap in research on the barriers to the goal of a more sexually diverse judiciary. In 2008 the Judicial Appointment Commission (JAC) for England and Wales undertook research to better understand the challenges limiting progress towards judicial diversity. A central gaol of the project was to investigate barriers to application for judicial appointment across different groups defined by “sex, ethnicity and employment status”. Sexual orientation was again noticeable by its absence. Its absence was yet another missed opportunity to recognise and take seriously this strand of diversity. This study is based on a response to that absence. A stakeholder organisation, InterLaw Diversity Forum for lesbian gay bisexual and transgender networks in the legal services sector, with the JAC’s approval, used their questionnaire and for the first time asked lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender lawyers about the perceptions and experiences of barriers to judicial appointment. This paper examines the findings of that unique research and considers them in the light of the initial research on barriers to judicial appointment and subsequent developments.
Phosphate Esters, Thiophosphate Esters and Metal Thiophosphates as Lubricant Additives
Authors: Johnson David , Hils John
Published: December 2013

Phosphate esters, thiophosphate esters and metal thiophosphates have been used as lubricant additives for over 50 years. While their use has been extensive, a detailed knowledge of how they work has been a much more recent development. In this paper, the use of phosphate esters and thiophosphate esters as anti-wear or extreme pressure additives is reviewed with an emphasis on their mechanism of action. The review includes the use of alkyl phosphates, triaryl phosphates and metal containing thiophosphate esters. The mechanisms of these materials interacting with a range of iron and steel based bearing material are examined.
Biosynthesis of Silver Nanoparticles Using Brown Marine Macroalga, Sargassum Muticum Aqueous Extract
Authors: Azizi Susan , Namvar Farideh , Mahdavi Mahnaz , Ahmad Mansor , Mohamad Rosfarizan
Published: December 2013

Biological synthesis of nanoparticles is a relatively new emerging field of nanotechnology which has economic and eco-friendly benefits over chemical and physical processes of synthesis. In the present work, for the first time, the brown marine algae Sargassum muticum (S. muticum) aqueous extract was used as a reducing agent for the synthesis of nanostructure silver particles (Ag-NPs). Structural, morphological and optical properties of the synthesized nanoparticles have been characterized systematically by using FTIR, XRD, TEM and UV–Vis spectroscopy. The formation of Ag-NPs was confirmed through the presence of an intense absorption peak at 420 nm using a UV–visible spectrophotometer. A TEM image showed that the particles are spherical in shape with size ranging from 5 to 15 nm. The nanoparticles were crystalline in nature. This was confirmed by the XRD pattern. From the FTIR results, it can be seen that the reduction has mostly been carried out by sulphated polysaccharides present in S. muticum.
Synthesis and Neuroprotective Action of Xyloketal Derivatives in Parkinson’s Disease Models
Authors: Li Shichang , Shen Cunzhou , Guo Wenyuan , Zhang Xuefei , Liu Shixin , Liang Fengyin , Xu Zhongliang , Pei Zhong , Song Huacan , Qiu Liqin , Lin Yongcheng , Pang Jiyan
Published: December 2013

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disease affecting people over age 55. Oxidative stress actively participates in the dopaminergic (DA) neuron degeneration of PD. Xyloketals are a series of natural compounds from marine mangrove fungus strain No. 2508 that have been reported to protect against neurotoxicity through their antioxidant properties. However, their protection versus 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium (MPP+)-induced neurotoxicity is only modest, and appropriate structural modifications are necessary to discover better candidates for treating PD. In this work, we designed and synthesized 39 novel xyloketal derivatives (1–39) in addition to the previously reported compound, xyloketal B. The neuroprotective activities of all 40 compounds were evaluated in vivo via respiratory burst assays and longevity-extending assays. During the zebrafish respiratory burst assay, compounds 1, 9, 23, 24, 36 and 39 strongly attenuated reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation at 50 μM. In the Caenorhabditis elegans longevity-extending assay, compounds 1, 8, 15, 16 and 36 significantly extended the survival rates (p < 0.005 vs. dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO)). A total of 15 compounds were tested for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease using the MPP+-induced C. elegans model, and compounds 1 and 8 exhibited the highest activities (p < 0.005 vs. MPP+). In the MPP+-induced C57BL/6 mouse PD model, 40 mg/kg of 1 and 8 protected against MPP+-induced dopaminergic neurodegeneration and increased the number of DA neurons from 53% for the MPP+ group to 78% and 74%, respectively (p < 0.001 vs. MPP+ group). Thus, these derivatives are novel candidates for the treatment of PD.
In Vitro Assessment of Migratory Behavior of Two Cell Populations in a Simple Multichannel Microdevice
Authors: Kabiri Mahboubeh , Lott William , Kabiri Ehsan , Russell Pamela , Doran Michael
Published: December 2013

Recent literature suggests that mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSC) could be used as Trojan Horses to deliver “death-signals” to cancer cells. Herein, we describe the development of a novel multichannel cell migration device, and use it to investigate the relative migration rates of bone marrow-derived MSC and breast cancer cells (MCF-7) towards each other. Confluent monolayers of MSC and MCF-7 were established in adjacent chambers separated by an array of 14 microchannels. Initially, culture chambers were isolated by air bubbles (air-valves) contained within each microchannel, and then bubbles were displaced to initiate the assay. The MCF-7 cells migrated preferentially towards MSC, whilst the MSC did not migrate preferentially towards the MCF-7 cells. Our results corroborate previous literature that suggests MSC migration towards cancer cells in vivo is in response to the associated inflammation rather than directly to signals secreted by the cancer cells themselves.
Expression of VEGF and Flk-1 and Flt-1 Receptors during Blood-Brain Barrier (BBB) Impairment Following Phoneutria nigriventer Spider Venom Exposure
Authors: Mendonça Monique , Soares Edilene , Stávale Leila , Rapôso Catarina , Coope Andressa , Kalapothakis Evanguedes , Da Cruz-Höfling Maria
Published: December 2013

Apart from its angiogenic and vascular permeation activity, the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) has been also reported as a potent neuronal protector. Newborn rats with low VEGF levels develop neuron degeneration, while high levels induce protective mechanisms in several neuropathological conditions. Phoneutria nigriventer spider venom (PNV) disrupts the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and causes neuroinflammation in central neurons along with excitotoxic signals in rats and humans. All these changes are transient. Herein, we examined the expression of VEGF and its receptors, Flt-1 and Flk-1 in the hippocampal neurons following envenomation by PNV. Adult and neonatal rats were evaluated at time limits of 2, 5 and 24 h. Additionally, BBB integrity was assessed by measuring the expression of occludin, β-catenin and laminin and neuron viability was evaluated by NeuN expression. VEGF, Flt-1 and Flk-1 levels increased in PNV-administered rats, concurrently with respective mRNAs. Flt-1 and Flk-1 immunolabeling was nuclear in neurons of hippocampal regions, instead of the VEGF membrane-bound typical location. These changes occurred simultaneously with the transient decreases in BBB-associated proteins and NeuN positivity. Adult rats showed more prominent expressional increases of the VEGF/Flt-1/Flk-1 system and earlier recovery of BBB-related proteins than neonates. We conclude that the reactive expressional changes seen here suggest that VEGF and receptors could have a role in the excitotoxic mechanism of PNV and that such role would be less efficient in neonate rats.
Herodotos' account of the battle of Marathon and the picture in the stoa poikile
Authors: Massaro Vin
Published: December 2013

The date, authorship, and contents of the Stoa Poikile picture which depicted the battle of Marathon suggest that it was Kimonian in inspiration and biased in favour of the Miltiadids. After an examination of the descriptions of the picture given by various ancient authorities, a composite description can be formulated which is found to be almost identical to the Herodotean account. The major discrepancy - the mention of the marsh in Pausanias - can be removed by taking into account the materials and techniques of the ancient artist. It can then be argued that the Herodotean account was based substantially on the picture and therefore also biased in favour of the Miltiadids.
Mégare : traditions mythiques espace sacré et naissance de la cité
Authors: Bohringer François
Published: December 2013

L'étude parallèle des mythes de la cité de Mégare et des rapports qui y unissaient centres politiques et lieux sacrés (tombes héroïques surtout) nous éclaire sur le processus de formation de la polis du haut archaïsme et, en particulier, sur le rôle qu'y joua l'apparition du culte des héros, soulignant le caractère cultuel de la cité grecque primitive et la place du mythe dans l'élaboration du premier langage politique.