bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Developmental Defects in a Caenorhabditis elegans Model for Type III Galactosemia
Authors: Brokate-Llanos Ana M , Monje José M , Murdoch Piedad del Socorro , Muñoz Manuel J
Published: October 2014

Type III galactosemia is a metabolic disorder caused by reduced activity of UDP-galactose-4-epimerase, which participates in galactose metabolism and the generation of various UDP-sugar species. We characterized gale-1 in Caenorhabditis elegans and found that a complete loss-of-function mutation is lethal, as has been hypothesized for humans, whereas a nonlethal partial loss-of-function allele causes a variety of developmental abnormalities, likely resulting from the impairment of the glycosylation process. We also observed that gale-1 mutants are hypersensitive to galactose as well as to infections. Interestingly, we found interactions between gale-1 and the unfolded protein response.
From the Editors
Authors: Michelucci Pietro , Simperl Elena
Published: October 2014

A welcome letter and introduction to the new journal.
The Three Sides of CrowdTruth
Authors: Aroyo Lora , Welty Chris
Published: October 2014

Crowdsourcing is often used to gather annotated data for training and evaluating computational systems that attempt to solve cognitive problems, such as understanding Natural Language sentences. Crowd workers are asked to perform semantic interpretation of sentences to establish a ground truth. This has always been done under the assumption that each task unit, e.g. each sentence, has a single correct interpretation that is contained in the ground truth. We have countered this assumption with CrowdTruth, and have shown that it can be better suited to tasks for which semantic interpretation is subjective. In this paper we investigate the dependence of worker metrics for detecting spam on the quality of sentences in the dataset, and the quality of the target semantics. We show that worker quality metrics can improve significantly when the quality of these other aspects of semantic interpretation are considered.
La tribu Phanaeini (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae, Scarabaeinae) en el Perú
Authors: Figueroa Luis , Edmonds W. D. , Martínez Luján Norberta
Published: October 2014

La presencia de la tribu Phanaeini (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Scarabaeinae) en el Perú fue revisada en base a la colección del Museo de Historia Natural de la Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos (Lima) y literatura especializada. Cada especie es presentada con citas para su diagnosis y datos de distribución y algunos comentarios. En este estudio se registran 30 especies que pertenecen a diez géneros: Coprophanaeus, Dendropaemon, Gromphas, Diabroctis, Oruscatus, Oxysternon, Phanaeus, Sulcophanaeus, Tetramereia y Megatharsis. La especie Oruscatus davus es la única especie distribuida en la parte alta y occidental de los Andes; Phanaeus lunaris y P. achilles son especies que se encuentran en el norte del Perú, mientras que las restantes especies son amazónicas.
Variabilidad vegetativa intra e interespecífica de Astrocaryum chonta y A. javarense (Arecaceae) en Jenaro Herrera, Loreto, Perú
Authors: Machahua Miguel , Kahn Francis , Millán Betty
Published: October 2014

Los caracteres vegetativos cuantitativos de individuos adultos, juveniles II, juveniles I y plántulas de Astrocaryum chonta y Astrocaryum javarense de cuatro poblaciones de la zona de Jenaro Herrera fueron analizados para observar los patrones de variación vegetativa a nivel intra e interespecífico. Los datos biométricos fueron analizados mediante ANOVA (p<0.05 y 0.01). A nivel intraespecífico el 37% y 64% de los caracteres vegetativos son significativamente diferentes en Astrocaryum chonta y Astrocaryum javarense respectivamente; mientras a nivel interespecífico el 81% de los caracteres vegetativos son significativamente diferentes.
Nuevos registros de chinches patinadores (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Gerridae) en Nicaragua y registros adicionales para Costa Rica
Authors: Herrera Federico
Published: October 2014

Se confirma la presencia de las especies Trepobates taylori, Trepobates trepidus y Limnogonus franciscanus por primera vez para Nicaragua. Además, se proveen otros registros de distribución para los géneros Trepobates y Limnogonus en Costa Rica.
Modular Structures in Film Music
Authors: Walus Bartlomiej P
Published: October 2014

Over the course of film music history film composers have been forced to seek and create ways of tackling the issue of mapping the musical score to the film structure and adjustments to the music as a consequence of editing. A number of solutions to this problem have been proposed, ranging from simple ones such as opting for less precise synchronization, to more sophisticated methods based on new musical resources and technology. One such solution has been the application of modular components for the construction of flexible musical structures. The present paper is an overview of selected modular approaches used by composers and indicates potential benefits of modularity that are not limited to the synchronization process.
Electromagnetic compatibility research of return traction network with signaling devices, centralization and blocking
Authors: A. M. Beznaritnyy  , V. I. Gavrilyuk  , I. O. Romantsyev  , V. I. Shchyeka
Published: October 2014

Purpose. It is necessary to identify the influence nature of the electric stock on the equipment of rail circuits that is used in automatic blocking devices and electrical centralization. Methodology. During the preparation phase the experimental investigations in real operating conditions of track circuits were conducted. The method of fast Fourier transform was used during the analysis of experimental data. Findings. The conducted research made it possible to evaluate the spectral composition of the traction current in a rail line under the influence of electromotive traction rolling stock with different characteristics of traction motors. Originality. As a result of research the characteristics of traction current, which is formed by modern accelerated traction rolling stock with asynchronous traction motors in rail lines were obtained. The harmful influence of traction current generated by such rolling stock on the operation of rail circuits of railway automatics was presented. Practical value. Experiments show the increase of harmful influence of return traction network on signaling and blocking devices during adoption on accelerated motion section. The obtained results can be used as a basis for development of rail circuits protection from interference, increase of electromagnetic compatibility of traction network with the adjacent lines and the development of technical diagnostics systems.
Backgrounds of experimental investigation of electromagnetic compatibility of traction asynchronous electric drives in the structure of dc traction power supply system
Authors: YU. S. Bondarenko
Published: October 2014

Purpose. Application of physical modeling as a tool for research of any events or systems is becoming more widespread, including the field of railway transport. At the same time the adequacy of results that can be obtained, depends largely on the similarity degree of the physical model to real system. From the standpoint of the traction asynchronous electric drive (TAED) research together with the traction power supply system research, the similarity can not be determined by the direct proportion of the parameters, because the processes nature accompanying the operation of these systems is non-linear. These features should be taken into account in the experimental setup, the basis for constructing of which is establishing of the system similarity that defines the purpose of this paper. Methodology. At the heart of the experimental setup creation laid reproduction of processes of energy transformation in the system of the DC traction power supply. Determination of the similarity degree of the proposed facility to the real system was carried out using the basic theorems of the similarity theory, their additional provisions on the complexity and nonlinear systems, as well as elements of mathematical analysis. Findings. According to the results of work: 1) The block diagram, the energy conversion mechanism of which is similar to the real system was received. This scheme is the basis of experimental setup, built in the future for the study of electromagnetic compatibility of TAED in the structure of DC traction electric power supply system. 2) Similarity of obtained structural scheme with the real system with the mechanism definition of calculating the scaling relations was established. Originality. In the process of establishing the similarity a simplified method for determining the scaling relations for nonlinear systems was suggested. They are identical in their structure components, but have different capacities. Practical value. Experimental research of electromagnetic compatibility of TAED in the structure of traction power DC system using the elements of similarity theory will provide more adequate results and, as a consequence, create preconditions for further improvement process of the aggregate related systems functioning of electrified railways.
Material choice and blanks operation technology of AK6 aluminium alloy
Authors: N. YE. Kalinina  , S. I. Mamchur  , K. O. Musina  , M. V. Hrekova  , T. K. Lopatkina
Published: October 2014

Purpose. Justification of the material and heat treatment method of aluminum alloy for the manufacturing of parts, type «plate» based on the results of microstructure and mechanical properties research; development of technological process of blanks operation of AK6 aluminum alloy. Methodology. Powdered alloy based on aluminum type AK6 was the research material. Finished forgings with the size 2520×1520×65 mm were obtained as a result of the preparation and forging of the blanks. After mechanical treatment of the blanks they were exposed to thermal processing and milling. Structure of the metal was examined under light microscope MIM-8M. Brinell hardness was used as the strength alloy characteristic. Findings. Influence analysis of alloy elements on the structure of deformable aluminum alloys was carried out. Research of influence of heat treatment modes on structure and properties of the AK6 alloy were performed. The improved technological process, which made it possible to obtain the item with the improved structure and properties and lower costs is offered. Originality. The samples of AK6 powdered alloy on fire resistance were tested. It is established that under heating of an example in the oxidative flame, it does not ignite to a temperature of 705 °C. The cause of high fire resistance of AK6 alloy samples was found, it is connected with the presence in the material the evenly distributed, small oxide inclusions and amorphous oxide film on the surface. Practical value. Hard conditions of work (corrosion in marine and industrial atmosphere, static and shock loads, cyclic temperature) allow the use of the item in various designs.
System organization of material providing of building
Authors: A. V. Rаdkеvich  , I. A. Arutyunyan
Published: October 2014

Purpose. Development of scientific-methodical bases to the design of rational management of material streams in the field of building providing taking into account intersystem connections with the enterprises of building industry. Methodology. The analysis of last few years of functioning of building industry in Ukraine allows distinguishing a number of problems that negatively influence the steady development of building, as the component of the state economics system. Therefore the research of existent organization methods of the system of building objects providing with material resources is extremely necessary. In connection with this the article justifies the use of method of hierarchies analysis (Saati method) for finding the optimal task solution of fixing the enterprises of building industry after building objects. Findings. Results give an opportunity to guidance of building organization to estimate and choose advantageous suppliers - enterprises of building industry, to conduct their rating, estimation taking into account basic descriptions, such as: quality, price, reliability of deliveries, specialization, financial status etc. Originality. On the basis of Saati method the methodologies of organization are improved, planning and managements of the reliable system of providing of building necessary material resources that meet the technological requirements of implementation of building and installation works. Practical value. Contribution to the decisions of many intricate organizational problems that are accompanied by the problems of development of building, provided due to organization of the reliable system of purchase of material resources.
Civil protection mechanism of the assignee rights based on the patent claim
Authors: N. V. Marchenko
Published: October 2014

Purpose. Statistical analysis of inventive activity in Ukraine shows that the largest number of applications is submitted by employees of universities and research institutions – almost 60% of all inventions. Practice of inventions execution proves that for researchers, especially for students, the most difficult part of the application and author documents is the claim. The purpose of research is a synthesis and supplying the general principles of quality drafting the patent claim, providing further legal protection of the patent. Methodology. Monitoring and analysis of the world documentary informational flow through the civil protection mechanism of the assignee rights on the basis of the patent claim allows us to compare the world systems of formulas development and summarize some key moments concerning the point in question. The example analysis of the correct patent claim drafting and its interpretation in court cases on intellectual property was made. Findings. The specific properties of the patent claim were described. They are conciseness, latitude, completeness and certainty, compliance with unity requirements and novelty of the invention. On the basis of the research it is established that there is a great difference between Ukrainian and American patent claims. A number of common mistakes and shortcomings during the claim drafting were identified. The need to restore the various forms of the invention training in universities of Ukraine was emphasized, since on this basis one should train a number of specialists who are able to carry out the commercialization of intellectual property results into productive findings. Originality. A number of issues and techniques was investigated and summarized. They can be applied by the courts in interpreting of the patent claim in the processing of intellectual property cases. Especially it concerns determining the correct drafting of the patent claim. Practical value. This work may be used during the drafting of patent claim. It will give the possibility for assignees and inventors to avoid the errors when drafting the claim. The results of the conducted research can be applied in the processes of civil protection in cases of intellectual property. The material presented in this article can also be used at lectures on the intellectual property disciplines in the universities.
Modeling of the building local protection (shelter – in place) including sorbtion of the hazardous contaminant on indoor surfaces
Authors: N. N. Belyayev  , N. V. Rostochilo  , F. V. Nedopekin
Published: October 2014

Purpose. Chemically hazardous objects, where toxic substances are used, manufactured and stored, and also main lines, on which the hazardous materials transportation is conducted, pose potential sources of atmosphere accidental pollution.Development of the CFD model for evaluating the efficiency of the building local protection from hazardous substantives ingress by using air curtain and sorption/desorption of hazardous substance on indoor surfaces. Methodology. To solve the problem of hydrodynamic interaction of the air curtain with wind flow and considering the building influence on this process the model of ideal fluid is used. In order to calculate the transfer process of the hazardous substance in the atmosphere an equation of convection-diffusion transport of impurities is applied. To calculate the process of indoors air pollution under leaking of foul air Karisson & Huber model is used. This model takes into account the sorption of the hazardous substance at various indoors surfaces. For the numerical integration of the model equations differential methods are used. Findings. In this paper we construct an efficient CFD model of evaluating the effectiveness of the buildings protection against ingress of hazardous substances through the use of an air curtain. On the basis of the built model a computational experiment to assess the effectiveness of this protection method under varying the location of the air curtain relative to the building was carried out. Originality. A new model was developed to compute the effectiveness of the air curtain supply to reduce the toxic chemical concentration inside the building. Practical value. The developed model can be used for design of the building local protection against ingress of hazardous substances.
Creation mechanism of the project on farm opening in the context of rural tourism development
Authors: L. V. Martsenyuk  , YU. M. Proskurnia  , T. V. Teslenko
Published: October 2014

Purpose. Geopolitical and socioeconomic changes, development of information technologies are materially have affected on the dynamic of international tourist flow, lead to transformation of tourism industry. The work is aimed to research the theoretical and practical aspects of essence, the contents and features of tourism development in Ukraine. One should identify the problem, which interfere and constrain the development of the entrance tourism, interfering fast lifting and distribution of tourist glory of the state. Methodology. The methods of statistical research, settlement, analytical and a synthesis method were used in the work. Findings. The author has analyzed the development of Ukrainian tourism. The main measures, which need to be carried out for the best functioning of this branch in the country and the importance of transport as the component of the tourism industry, were also defined. The article specifies that the tourism is one of the most important branches of the state economics and plays very important role in the foreign economic relations. Originality. The authors propose to pay the considerable attention to the development of entrance rural green tourism, which is presented in the form of the project. Development of this project (farm opening) and running the relevant activities would allow to attract tourists as from Ukraine, so from abroad. Practical value. Complex and dynamic character of modern tourism formed demand for a safe and comfortable environment for life and health. The offered measures will increase the competitiveness of Ukrainian tourism in the European market of tourist services.It should provide all the necessary conditions for the implementation of citizens’ right to freedom of movement and rest. Overcoming theexisting negative trends, creation of systematic and complex precondition for the sustainable development of tourism should become one of the prior directions to ensure the sustainable development of the country as a whole and a significant component in the solving of tasks of improvement of the population quality of life
Leaning Toward a Consensus About Dynamic Assessment: Can We? Do We Want To?
Authors: Lidz Carol S.
Published: October 2014

This article offers a response to two questions: Can we reach a consensus in the domain of dynamic assessment? and Do we want to? The brief response to these questions is first: Yes, it may be possible to reach a sufficient degree of consensus that we can offer some guidelines as to what is and what is not “dynamic” about assessment. The response to the latter question of whether we want to or not is a more qualified, “Well sort of, and to some extent, but with a great deal of latitude, flexibility, and room for diversity.” The article goes on to discuss the core concepts of dynamic assessment, what a general consensus might look like (also known as generic model), and, finally, some reference to the exciting developments that have emerged which make me advocate for diversity and flexibility in our model-building.
F‐Spondin Inhibits Differentiation of Clastic Precursors via Lipoprotein Receptor–Related Protein 8 (LRP8)
Authors: Oka Hiroko , Kitagawa Masae , Takata Takashi
Published: October 2014

Background: F‐spondin, known to be a secreted neuronal glycoprotein, is highly expressed on the tooth root surface. The authors previously reported that F‐spondin is one of the specific markers of cementoblasts in periodontal tissue. In chronic periodontitis, significant cemental resorption rarely occurs on the root side, although alveolar bone resorption by osteoclasts is one of the major pathologic changes. Thus, it was hypothesized that secretory F‐spondin from cementoblasts might be involved in differentiation of clastic cells on the root surface. The authors studied effects of secretory F‐spondin from F‐spondin–expressing cells and its pathway on receptor activator of nuclear factor‐κB ligand (RANKL)‐mediated differentiation of clastic cells.

Methods: Osteoclast precursors were used in this study. With a chamber assay, the authors examined effects of secretory molecules from F‐spondin–expressing cells of transgenic mice on RANKL‐induced clastic cell differentiation.

Results: Secretory molecules from F‐spondin–overexpressing cells significantly inhibited the RANKL‐mediated tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP)‐positive cells from primary progenitor cells with the chamber system. F‐spondin suppressed RANKL‐mediated nuclear factor of activated T‐cells, cytoplasmic 1 (NFATc1); TRAP; cathepsin K; and dendritic cell–specific transmembrane protein (DC‐STAMP) expression in the cells. The suppressive effect of F‐spondin on RANKL‐induced differentiation of clastic cells was partially blocked by knockdown of low‐density lipoprotein receptor–related protein 8 (LRP8).

Conclusions: These findings indicate that secretory factors from F‐spondin–expressing cells, including F‐spondin, downregulate differentiation of clastic precursors. Moreover, F‐spondin inhibits RANKL‐mediated differentiation of clastic cells partially via LRP8. It is suggested that secretory F‐spondin may act protectively from cemental resorption partially via LRP8 in periodontal tissue.
Quantitative Assessment of the Associations Between Interleukin‐8 Polymorphisms and Periodontitis Susceptibility
Authors: Chen Xing , Huang Jinping , Zhong Liangjun , Ding Cheng
Published: October 2014

Background: This review assesses the associations of interleukin‐8 gene (IL‐8) −251A/T (rs4073) and −845T/C (rs2227532) polymorphisms with susceptibility to periodontitis.

Methods: Several electronic databases were searched for eligible articles. Twelve studies involving 2,233 cases and 2,655 controls were retrieved and analyzed. Odds ratios (ORs) along with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated to assess the strength of relationship between the IL‐8 polymorphisms and periodontitis risk.

Results: No significant association was found for IL‐8 −251A/T polymorphism with periodontitis in the overall analysis and stratification by periodontitis type and smoking status. Subgroup analysis by ethnicity revealed that −251A/T T allele and TT genotype were associated with decreased risk of periodontitis in a Brazilian mixed population (T allele versus A allele: OR 0.80, 95% CI 0.68 to 0.94, Pheterogeneity = 0.30; TT versus AA: OR 0.65, 95% CI 0.46 to 0.93, Pheterogeneity = 0.39; TT versus AA/AT: OR 0.58, 95% CI 0.35 to 0.98, Pheterogeneity = 0.01). In addition, −251A/T T allele was associated with increased periodontitis risk in Asians. Pooled estimates showed that the −845T/C polymorphism was associated with periodontitis susceptibility in overall analysis and the chronic periodontitis subgroup. In addition, marginal associations were observed between −845T/C polymorphism and periodontitis in a Brazilian mixed population. Moreover, this association was also confirmed to be significant in Brazilian non‐smokers.

Conclusion: This meta‐analysis indicated that both IL‐8 −251A/T and −845T/C polymorphisms may be involved in the development of periodontitis in a Brazilian mixed population, whereas the −251A/T allele T appeared to be a risk factor for periodontitis in Asians.
Distal Femoral Subchondral Metastasis Mistaken for an Insufficiency Fracture and Treated with Total Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Born Trevor R. , Rose Peter S. , Mabry Tad M.
Published: October 2014

Case:

A seventy-three-year-old woman who had been given the tentative diagnosis of spontaneous osteonecrosis presented to our clinic for a second opinion. Additional imaging and evaluation revealed the lesion to be a subchondral metastasis consistent with breast cancer. She received proper oncologic treatment and subsequent total knee arthroplasty.

Conclusion:

Orthopaedic surgeons should be aware of the possibility of metastatic disease manifesting itself in the form of an isolated subchondral lesion about the knee. For patients with such lesions, treatment in the form of total knee arthroplasty is a viable option that can provide excellent pain relief and function.
A Simplified Approach to the Diagnosis of Atypical HUS: Clinical Considerations and Practical Implications
Authors: Asif Arif , Vachharajani Tushar , Salman Loay , Nayer Ali
Published: October 2014

Although rare, atypical hemolytic-uremic syndrome (aHUS) carries a high morbidity and mortality. Widespread microvascular thrombosis, thrombocytopenia and microangiopathic hemolytic anemia are the hallmark of aHUS. Virtually any organ (particularly the kidney) can be a target for the devastating effects of this syndrome. Uncontrolled activation of the alternative pathway of the complement system lies at the heart of the pathogenesis of aHUS. While significant advances have been made in our understanding of aHUS, establishing timely diagnosis of this syndrome has been challenging. This, in part, is due to the absence of a sensitive and specific diagnostic test and a relatively lack of our familiarity with the syndrome. With the recent success and approval of a humanized monoclonal antibody (eculizumab) in the treatment of aHUS, prompt and accurate diagnosis is of paramount importance to limit the target organ injury. This article presents a simplified approach to establishing the diagnosis of aHUS.
Shear and Flexural Stiffnesses of Reinforced Concrete Shear Walls Subjected to Cyclic Loading
Authors: O. Tang T. , K.L. Su R.
Published: October 2014

Seismic analyses of concrete structures under maximum-considered earthquakes require the use of reduced
stiffness accounting for cracks and degraded materials. Structural walls, different to other flexural dominated components,
are sensitive to both shear and flexural stiffness degradations. Adoption of the gross shear stiffness for walls in seismic
analysis prevails particularly for the design codes in the US. Yet available experimental results indicate that this could
overstate the shear stiffness by more than double, which would hamper the actual predictions of building periods and
shear load distributions among columns and walls. In addition, the deformation capacity could be drastically understated
if the stipulated constant ductility capacity is adopted. This paper reviews the available simplified shear and flexural models,
which stem from classical mechanics, empirical formulations and/or parametric studies, suitable for structural walls at
the state-of-the-art. Reviews on the recommended flexural and shear stiffnesses by prominent design codes such as
ACI318-11, Eurocode 8 and CSA are included. A database comprised of walls subjected to reverse-cyclic loads is formed
to evaluate the performance of each model. It is found that there exist classical models that could outweigh overconservative
codified values with comparable simplicity for practical uses.
Comparisons of Codal Detailing Rules for Curvature Ductility and Numerical Investigations
Authors: Laterza Michelangelo , D’Amato Michele , P. Thanthirige Laksiri , Braga Franco , Gigliotti Rosario
Published: October 2014

In moment resisting frame structures special detailing rules are applied to critical regions of primary columns
and beams to ensure adequate curvature ductility. This is necessary for dissipating earthquake energy through hysteretical
behavior of critical regions where inelastic flexural excursions occur. In this paper codal detailing rules for designing longitudinal
and transverse reinforcement of primary elements as function of curvature ductility are assessed. Four seismic
codes are considered: Italian code, New Zealand code, Eurocode 8 and American code. Non-linear monotonic momentcurvature
analyses are performed on some sections of columns and beams detailed in according to the considered codal
provisions. In the analyses the confinement effects within the concrete core have been taken into account as well. The paper
concludes comparing the measured curvature ductility of the studied sections with the expected one by the codal provisions
within the critical regions.
Optimal Information Asymmetry, Control Environment, and Investment in Firm-Specific Human Capital
Authors: Brisley Neil , Douglas Alan V.
Published: October 2014

When future operations are expected to provide information rents, managers concerned with being replaced can entrench themselves with value-increasing firm-specific human capital (SHC). In motivating SHC investment, the firm trades off the incentive effects of an ex ante commitment to asymmetric information against the costs of compensation rents and private benefits.

Firm value, therefore, is affected by (1) the accuracy with which the board observes and interprets information, and (2) the strength of the control environment restricting the manager's ability to benefit from concealing and diverting firm value. It is optimal to maintain a partially informed board to the mutual benefit of shareholders and managers, and for firms in a stricter control environment to maintain a more informed board. Due to the indirect effect on SHC, regulations that strengthen control adversely affect firm value unless the information and control environments are sufficiently biased toward managerial preferences.

JEL Classifications: G30; G38; M12; M48.
The Consequences of Hiring Lower-Wage Workers in an Incomplete-Contract Environment
Authors: Brown Jason L. , Martin Patrick R. , Moser Donald V. , Weber Roberto A.
Published: October 2014

Firms frequently attempt to increase profits by replacing some existing workers with new lower-wage workers. However, this strategy may be ineffective in an incomplete-contract environment because the new workers may provide lower effort in response to their lower wages, and hiring new lower-wage workers may damage the remaining original workers' reciprocal relationship with the firm. We conduct an experiment to examine this issue and find that when new lower-wage workers become available, firms hire them to replace original higher-wage workers and pay the new workers lower wages. However, these lower wages do not improve firm profit because the decision to hire new lower-wage workers causes both the new and remaining workers to provide lower effort. Moreover, hiring lower-wage workers reduces new workers' payoffs and, thus, decreases social welfare. These unintended consequences suggest that firms should consider both the wage savings and the potential costs when deciding whether to replace some workers with new lower-wage workers. We discuss the implications of our findings for contract design, hiring practices, and managerial accountants.
Selection Benefits of Stock-Based Compensation for the Rank-and-File
Authors: Hales Jeffrey , Wang Laura W. , Williamson Michael G.
Published: October 2014

We investigate a potential selection benefit of stock-based compensation for rank-and-file employees, whose pay under this compensation form is insensitive to their individual efforts. We use a laboratory experiment to demonstrate that individuals with higher levels of dispositional optimism are more likely to choose compensation that is contingent on a company's future stock price than to choose fixed pay, even after controlling for the individual's risk preferences. Furthermore, compared to participants selecting fixed pay, those selecting stock-based compensation also perform better on a challenging problem-solving task, a result that we show is due to their higher levels of dispositional optimism. Collectively, we demonstrate that stock-based compensation can have productivity-enhancing effects, even if stock prices are completely insensitive to individual efforts. In doing so, we provide a partial explanation for the puzzling prevalence of stock-based compensation plans at the rank-and-file level and contribute to the broader contract-selection literature.
Effect of posterior impaction and setback of the maxilla on retropalatal airway and velopharyngeal dimensions after two-jaw surgery in skeletal Class III patients
Authors: Kim Taeyun , Baek Seung-Hak , Choi Jin-Young
Published: October 2014

Objective: 

To evaluate the changes in retropalatal airway and velopharyngeal dimensions after posterior impaction (PI) only or PI and setback (PI/SB) of the maxilla in patients with skeletal Class III undergoing two-jaw surgery.

Materials and Methods: 

Subjects consisted of 60 Class III patients treated with two-jaw surgery. They were divided into two groups: group 1 (n  = 30; PI of the maxilla; mean  =  2.6 mm) and group 2 (n = 30; PI/SB of the maxilla; mean  =  2.8 mm and 1.8 mm, respectively). Using three dimensional computed tomography images taken 1month before surgery (T0) and at least 6 months after surgery (T1), retropalatal airway volume, minimum cross-sectional area, and lateral and anteroposterior (AP) dimensions of minimum cross-sectional area, soft palate angle, soft palate length, and pharyngeal depth were measured. A paired t-test and independent t-test were used for statistical analysis.

Results: 

Group 1 showed increase in retropalatal airway volume and minimum cross-sectional area (P < .01 and P < .05, respectively). Group 2 exhibited decrease in retropalatal airway volume, minimum cross-sectional area, and lateral and AP dimensions of minimum cross-sectional area (all P < .01). Although groups 1 and 2 showed an increase in soft palate length (P < .01 and P < .001, respectively), pharyngeal depth significantly increased only in group 1 (P < .01). Groups 1 and 2 were significantly different in retropalatal airway volume, minimum cross-sectional area, and AP dimension (P < .05, P < .001, and P < .05, respectively).

Conclusion: 

Because the direction of surgical movement in the maxilla can determine the changes in the retropalatal airway and velopharyngeal dimensions, it is recommended that clinicians investigate whether patients suffer from sleep-related breathing disorders before performing PI/SB of the maxilla.
Four-year Randomized Clinical Trial to Evaluate the Clinical Performance of a Glass Ionomer Restorative System
Authors: Gurgan S , Kutuk ZB , Ergin E , Oztas SS , Cakir FY
Published: October 2014

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical performance of a glass ionomer restorative system compared with a microfilled hybrid posterior composite in a four-year randomized clinical trial.

Methods

A total of 140 (80 Class 1 and 60 Class 2) lesions in 59 patients were either restored with a glass ionomer restorative system (Equia, GC, Tokyo, Japan), which was a combination of a packable glass ionomer (Equia Fil, GC) and a self-adhesive nanofilled coating (Equia Coat, GC), or with a microfilled hybrid composite (Gradia Direct Posterior, GC) in combination with a self-etch adhesive (G-Bond, GC) by two experienced operators according to the manufacturer's instructions. Two independent examiners evaluated the restorations at baseline and at one, two, three, and four years postrestoration according to the modified US Public Health Service criteria. Polyvinyl siloxane impression negative replicas at each recall were observed under scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to evaluate surface characteristics. The statistical analyses were carried out with McNemar, Pearson Chi-square, and Cochran Q- tests (p<0.05).

Results

After four years, 126 (76 Class 1 and 50 Class 2) restorations were evaluated in 52 patients, with a recall rate of 88.1%. None of the restorations showed trends to downgrade in anatomical form, secondary caries, surface texture, postoperative sensitivity, and color match (p>0.05). Significant differences in marginal adaptation and discoloration were found at four years compared to baseline for both restorative materials for Class 1 and Class 2 restorations (p<0.05). Only one Class 2 Equia restoration was missing at three years (3.9%), and another one was missing at four years (7.7%) (p>0.05). SEM evaluations were in accordance with the clinical findings.

Conclusions

The use of both materials for the restoration of posterior teeth exhibited a similar and clinically successful performance after four years.
Complex Brain Malformations Associated with Chromosome 6q27 Gain that Includes THBS2, Which Encodes Thrombospondin 2, an Astrocyte-Derived Protein of the Extracellular Matrix
Authors: Burnside Melissa N. , Pyatt Robert E. , Hughes Anna , Baker Peter B. , Pierson Christopher R.
Published: October 2014

This case describes the autopsy findings of a 2-month-old male infant with extensive and severe developmental brain abnormalities, including microcephaly, neocortical neuronal layering abnormalities, leptomeningeal heterotopias, commissural agenesis, and cerebellar and brainstem hypoplasia. Microarray analysis identified a gain in chromosome band 6q27, which includes the entire coding region of THBS2. THSB2 encodes thrombospondin 2 (TSP2), an astrocyte secreted protein of the extracellular matrix that promotes synaptogenesis, neurite outgrowth, and cerebellar granule cell migration. Thrombospondin 2 is not a matrix structural protein; instead it serves as an extracellular modulator of cell function, so it is considered a matricellular protein. The neuropathological findings at autopsy are compatible with perturbations in several known functions of TSP2 and demonstrate that TSP2 dysregulation can have a significant negative impact on human brain development. Furthermore, this case demonstrates the important role of astrocytes in human brain development.
Design, Synthesis and Pharmacological Screening of β-Amino-, Thiadiazole/Thiadiazine-Phosphonate Based Triazole Motifs as Antimicrobial/Cytotoxic Agents
Authors: Abdou Wafaa M. , Ganoub Neven A. , Sabry Eman
Published: October 2014

Three different series of phosphonate derivatives, b-aminoand fused thiadiazolo/thiadiazine-phosphonates have been synthesized using the addition and/or addition-cyclization protocol of Horner-Wadsworth-Emmons (HWE) reagents to 1,2,4-triazole-3-thiols. The design of potentially antimicrobial and anticancer phosphor esters relied on the results of computer-assisted molecular modeling. All synthesized phosphonates were evaluated for their in vitro antimicrobial activities while anticancer properties were determined for eight out of twenty new phosphonates. The tested phosphonates, except for compounds that have a nitrile moiety, exhibited moderate to significant antimicrobial activity. Nevertheless, the most active compounds were fused thiadiazole-phosphonates, which inhibited the growth of both Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria better than b-aminophosphonates and fused thiadiazolophosphonates. In parallel, the antitumor activity screenings of selected phosphonates from each series and substrate 1 were also done. Their antitumor properties against ten carcinoma cell lines, including breast (MCF7, MDA-MB- 231/ ATCC, MDA-MB-435, BT-549), ovarian (IGROVI, OVCAR-3, SK-OV-3), prostate (PX-3, PU-145), and liver (HEPG2), were investigated. The results showed that all synthesized compounds reflected remarkable antitumor activity against breast (especially MDA-MB-231/ATCC and BT-549), and prostate carcinoma cell lines (PC-3 and DU-145), whereas a moderate to good effect on ovarian and liver cancer cells was observed.
Potential of the Essential Oil from Pimenta Pseudocaryophyllus as an Antimicrobial Agent
Authors: Suzuki Érika Yoko , Baptista Edilene Bolutari , Resende Do Carmo Antônio Márcio , Miranda Chaves Maria Das Graças Afonso , Chicourel Elizabeth Lemos , Barbosa Raposo Nádia Rezende
Published: October 2014

This study evaluated the effectiveness of the essential oil of Pimenta pseudocaryophyllus in inhibiting the growth of the main bacteria responsible for bad perspiration odor (Staphylococcus epidermidis, Proteus hauseri, Micrococcus yunnanensis and Corynebacterium xerosis). The chemical profile of the essential oil was evaluated by high-resolution gas chromatography (HR-GC) and four constituents were identified, eugenol being the major component (88.6 %). The antimicrobial activity was evaluated by means of the turbidimetric method, using the microdilution assay. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values of the essential oil ranged from 500 to 1,000 μg mL-1. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) observations confirmed the physical damage and morphological alteration of the test bacteria treated with the essential oil, reference drugs and eugenol. The findings of the study demonstrated that this essential oil can be used in the formulation of personal care products.
Antioxidative Activity and Inhibition of Key Enzymes Linked to Type-2 Diabetes (α-Glucosidase and α-Amylase) by Khaya Senegalensis
Authors: Ibrahim Mohammed Auwal , Koorbanally Neil Anthony , Islam Md. Shahidul
Published: October 2014

This study evaluated the in vitro antioxidative activity of Khaya senegalensis extracts and inhibitory effects of some solvent fractions on α-glucosidase and α-amylase activities. The stem bark, root and leaf samples of the plant were sequentially extracted with ethyl acetate, ethanol and water and then tested for antioxidative activity. Our findings revealed that the ethanolic extract of the root had the highest antioxidative activity. Solvent-solvent fractionation of the root ethanolic extract yielded a butanol fraction that showed higher antioxidative activity than other fractions. Furthermore, the butanol fraction had significantly higher (p < 0.05) α-glucosidase and α-amylase inhibitory activities with IC50 values of 2.89 ± 0.46 and 97.51 ± 5.72 μg mL-1, respectively. Enzyme kinetic studies indicated that the butanol fraction is a non-competitive inhibitor for α-glucosidase with an inhibition binding constant Ki of 1.30 μg mL-1 and a competitive inhibitor of α-amylase with a Ki of 7.50 μg mL-1. GC-MS analysis revealed that the butanol fraction contained two chromones, p-anilinophenol and 3-ethyl-5-(3- ethyl-(3H)-benzothiazol-2-ylidene)-2-(p-tolylvinylamino)- 4-thiazolidinone. Data obtained in the study suggest that the butanol fraction derived from the ethanolic extract of K. senegalensis root possessed excellent antioxidative as well as α-glucosidase and a-amylase inhibitory activities while chromones and/or p-anilinophenol could be the main bioactive compounds responsible for the observed activities.
Evaluation of the Antioxidant Activity of Coreopsis Tinctoria Nuff. and Optimisation of Isolation by Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Lan Shumin , Lin Jingming , Zheng Ni
Published: October 2014

The aim of the present study was to determine the antioxidant activity of Coreopsis tinctoria flowering tops (CTFT). Studies were conducted to obtain suitable extraction conditions for chlorogenic acid, quercetin, luteolin, apigenin and kaempferol, which were identified and quantified by HPLC. Response surface methodology was employed to optimise the ultrasound-assisted extraction conditions including extraction time, ethanol concentration and liquid-solid ratio. The antioxidant activity of the extracts was analysed using various antioxidant models, such as DPPH, ABTS and hydroxyl radical scavenging assay. CTFT extracted for 15.0 min with ethanol at a concentration of 60.4 % and with liquidsolid ratio 27.5:1 possessed a considerable amounts of total flavonoids and polyphenols (18.9 %). This extract showed higher scavenging activity of ABTS and hydroxyl radical activity than rutin, however not in the DPPH test. We may assume that CTFT possess antioxidant and free radical scavenging potentials.
Analysis of Active Components in Salvia Miltiorrhiza Injection Based on Vascular Endothelial Cell Protection
Authors: Shen Jie , Yang Kai , Sun Caihua , Zheng Minxia
Published: October 2014

Correlation analysis based on chromatograms and pharmacological activities is essential for understanding the effective components in complex herbal medicines. In this report, HPLC and measurement of antioxidant properties were used to describe the active ingredients of Salvia miltiorrhiza injection (SMI). HPLC results showed that tanshinol, protocatechuic aldehyde, rosmarinic acid, salvianolic acid B, protocatechuic acid and their metabolites in rat serum may contribute to the efficacy of SMI. Assessment of antioxidant properties indicated that differences in the composition of serum powder of SMI caused differences in vascular endothelial cell protection. When bivariate correlation was carried out it was found that salvianolic acid B, tanshinol and protocatechuic aldehyde were active components of SMI because they were correlated to antioxidant properties.
Novel Ethyl 1,5-Disubstituted-1H-Pyrazole-3-Carboxylates as a New Class of Antimicrobial Agents
Authors: Radwan Awwad A. , Ghorab Mostafa M. , Alsaid Mansour S. , Alanazi Fares K.
Published: October 2014

A series of pyrazole derivatives 9-22 were designed and synthesized. All the newly synthesized compounds were assayed for their antimicrobial activity against the Grampositive bacteria Staphyllococcus aureus and Bacillius subtilis and the Gram-negative bacteria Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, in addition to the fungi organisms, Candida albicans, C. parapsilosis and C. tropicalis. Ethyl 5-(2,5-dimethylthiophen- 3-yl)-1-phenyl-1H-pyrazole-3-carboxylate (21) (MICE.coli = 0.038 μmol mL-1, MICP. aerug. = 0.067 μmol mL-1) is nearly as active as ampicillin (MIC = 0.033 and 0.067 μmol mL-1), respectively. Ethyl 5-(4-bromo-2-chlorophenyl)- 1-phenyl-1H-pyrazole-3-carboxylate (16) (MIC = 0.015 μmol mL-1) is more active than fluconazole (0.020 μmol mL-1) as a reference drug against C. parapsilosis.
Rosuvastatin, Sildenafil and Their Combination in Monocrotaline-Induced Pulmonary Hypertension in Rat
Authors: Jasińska-Stroschein Magdalena , Owczarek Jacek , Wesołowska Anna , Orszulak-Michalak Daria
Published: October 2014

There is considerable interest in the pleiotropic effects of statins and their potential role in the treatment of pulmonary hypertension. Previous experimental findings indicate that a combination of lipophilic statins with phosphodiesterase type-5 inhibitor, sildenafil, can offer preventive effects on rat monocrotaline-induced pulmonary hypertension. The present study is aimed to assess whether therapeutic regimen provides any benefits. Seven days after pulmonary hypertension induction, hydrophilic rosuvastatin and sildenafil were given for 14 days to male Wistar outbred rats. Right ventricular pressure, right ventricle mass and three biomarkers were evaluated after 21 days: brain natriuretic peptide, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and vascular endothelial growth factor. The present study demonstrates that administration of hydrophilic statin with sildenafil results in reduction of pulmonary vascular remodeling and right ventricular pressure. The results of biochemical measurements may suggest that statins play a positive role in right ventricle function or the process of angiogenesis in pulmonary hypertension development.