bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A critical review of propulsion concepts for modern airships
Authors: Ilieva Galina , Páscoa José , Dumas Antonio , Trancossi Michele
Published: April 2012

After a few decades in which airships have been depromoted to the level of being only considered as a mere curiosity they seem now to reappear. The main reasons for this are related to the recent progress in technology of materials, aerodynamics, energy and propulsion. Airships are also presenting themselves as green friendly air vehicles, in particular if solar powered airships are considered. Their ability to remain aloft for long time periods have also expanded the range of mission profiles for which they are suited. Herein we have concentrated on a critical overview of propulsion mechanisms for airships. These include a detailed overview of past, present, and future enabling technologies for airship propulsion. Diverse concepts are revisited and the link between the airship geometry and flight mechanics is made for diverse propulsion system mechanisms.
The future of complexity engineering
Authors: Frei Regina , Marzo Serugendo Giovanna
Published: April 2012

Complexity Engineering encompasses a set of approaches to engineering systems which are typically composed of various interacting entities often exhibiting self-* behaviours and emergence. The engineer or designer uses methods that benefit from the findings of complexity science and often considerably differ from the classical engineering approach of “divide and conquer”.

This article provides an overview on some very interdisciplinary and innovative research areas and projects in the field of Complexity Engineering, including synthetic biology, chemistry, artificial life, self-healing materials and others. It then classifies the presented work according to five types of nature-inspired technology, namely: (1) using technology to understand nature, (2) nature-inspiration for technology, (3) using technology on natural systems, (4) using biotechnology methods in software engineering, and (5) using technology to model nature. Finally, future trends in Complexity Engineering are indicated and related risks are discussed.
Lunar surface exploration using mobile robots
Authors: Nishida Shin-Ichiro , Wakabayashi Sachiko
Published: April 2012

A lunar exploration architecture study is being carried out by space agencies. JAXA is carrying out research and development of a mobile robot (rover) to be deployed on the lunar surface for exploration and outpost construction. The main target areas for outpost construction and lunar exploration are mountainous zones. The moon’s surface is covered by regolith. Achieving a steady traversal of such irregular terrain constitutes the major technical problem for rovers. A newly developed lightweight crawler mechanism can effectively traverse such irregular terrain because of its low contact force with the ground.

This fact was determined on the basis of the mass and expected payload of the rover. This paper describes a plan for Japanese lunar surface exploration using mobile robots, and presents the results of testing and analysis needed in their development. This paper also gives an overview of the lunar exploration robot to be deployed in the SELENE follow-on mission, and the composition of its mobility, navigation, and control systems.
Microstructure and mechanical behavior of cast Ti-6Al-4V with addition of boron
Authors: Pederson Robert , Gaddam Raghuveer , Antti Marta-Lena
Published: April 2012

The effect of boron (between 0.06 and 0.11 wt%) on the microstructure, hardness and compression properties of cast Ti-6Al-4V was investigated. Compression properties were examined in the temperature range from room temperature to 1000°C. It was found that the addition of boron refines the as-cast microstructure in terms of prior beta grain size and alpha colony size. This microstructural refinement led to an increase in compressive yield strength from room temperature up to 700°C. Three different strain rates (0.001, 0.1 and 1 s−1) were evaluated during compression testing from which it was found that the compressive yield strength decreased with decreasing strain rate from 600°C up to the beta transus temperature.
The method of assessment of the grinding wheel cutting ability in the plunge grinding
Authors: Nadolny Krzysztof
Published: April 2012

This article presents the method of comparative assessment of the grinding wheel cutting ability in the plunge grinding kinematics. A new method has been developed to facilitate multicriterial assessment of the working conditions of the abrasive grains and the bond bridges, as well as the wear mechanisms of the GWAS, which occur during the grinding process, with simultaneous limitation of the workshop tests range. The work hereby describes the methodology of assessment of the grinding wheel cutting ability in a short grinding test that lasts for 3 seconds, for example, with a specially shaped grinding wheel, in plunge grinding. The grinding wheel macrogeometry modification applied in the developed method consists in forming a cone or a few zones of various diameters on its surface in the dressing cut. It presents an exemplary application of two variants of the method in the internal cylindrical plunge grinding, in 100Cr6 steel. Grinding wheels with microcrystalline corundum grains and ceramic bond underwent assessment. Analysis of the registered machining results showed greater efficacy of the method of cutting using a grinding wheel with zones of various diameters. The method allows for comparative tests upon different grinding wheels, with various grinding parameters and different machined materials.
Effects of Rates and Nutrient Ratios on Production and Quality of Phytomass at Fertiliser Application to an Alluvial Meadow
Authors: Vargová Vladimíra , Kovačiková Zuzana , Michalec Milan
Published: April 2012

Effects of Rates and Nutrient Ratios on Production and Quality of Phytomass at Fertiliser Application to an Alluvial Meadow

The research objective was to assess effects of fertiliser application rates and nutrient ratios on production and quality of grassland at an alluvial meadow. The initial sward type was Festucetum pratense association. A field trial was established in the western part of "Zvolenská kotlina" basin (altitude 350 m) and consisted of ten fertiliser treatments: zero-fertilised sward (control); fertiliser P and K application; rates of 50, 100, 150 and 200 kg N/ha at two ratios of N : P : K nutrients, namely the low N : P : K ratio (1 : 0.3 : 0.8) and the high one (1 : 0.15 : 0.4), respectively. The grassland was utilised by three cuts. Dry matter (DM) production and herbage quality were determined at each of the cuts. The yield of DM was higher with the rates of 50 and 100 kg N/ha applied at the high nutrient ratio than at the low ratio. Over the research period, the highest DM production was recorded at the treatment with the low nutrient ratio and the highest N rate applied. The content of crude protein (CP) was increasing with the rising fertiliser N rate and the increase in CP was higher at the low nutrient ratio treatments. The zero-fertilised control also provided sufficient CP content. The low nutrient ratio resulted in higher P and K content than the high one. The lowest content of P and K was recorded at the control. The highest P content was found at the treatment with the fertiliser P and K applied. The highest K content was recorded at the 2nd cut, but decreased at the 3rd cut in all the treatments. The content of Ca was rising towards the 3rd cut. The content of nutrients was higher at the treatments where the high ratio was used. The content of Mg in DM was higher at the treatments with the high nutrient ratio and the high N fertiliser rates. The content of Mg was increasing in the 2nd cut at all the treatments.
Evaluation of Slovak Wheat Cultivars for Fusarium Culmorum Infection by Real-Time PCR and By Conventional Assays
Authors: Hudcovicová Martina , Šliková Svetlana , Šudyová Valéria , Hauptvogel Pavol
Published: April 2012

Evaluation of Slovak Wheat Cultivars forFusarium CulmorumInfection by Real-Time PCR and By Conventional Assays

Slovak winter wheat cultivars were evaluated for a level of spike and kernel infection, the content of mycotoxin deoxynivalenol (DON) and the amount ofFusarium culmorumDNA in kernels after artificial inoculation with the fungusF. culmorum(W. G. Sm.) Sacc. The tests included 14 old and 12 modern wheat Slovak cultivars. The cultivars were sown in October 2008 in field conditions of Piešťany and inoculated with pathogen in May 2009. At anthesis, twenty-five spikes from each cultivar were sprayed (block 1) withF. culmorumand spikes were covered for 24 hours with a plastic bag. Old Slovak cultivars had lower area under the disease progress curve (AUDPC),Fusariumdamaged kernels, DON content and lower amount ofF. culmorumDNA than modern Slovak cultivars. An average kernel contamination with DON in the tested cultivars was 24.9 mg/kg and an average amount ofF. culmorumDNA was 10,528 ng/g. The old cultivars accumulated 35.9% less DON and 51% lessF. culmorumDNA than modern cultivars. The positive correlation coefficients were significant with AUDPC and DON content, and with the amount ofF. culmorumDNA and DON content and AUDPC (P< 0.01). Correlation coefficients were higher when we used quantification ofF. culmorumDNA expressed in infection per cent. Our study has confirmed that real-time polymerase chain reaction is very suitable method for evaluation of wheat cultivars forF. culmoruminfection and presents less time-consuming, more sensitive and more specific assay than conventional assays.
Influence of Soil Cultivation Technologies and Fertilisation on Productivity and Energy Production of Arable Crops
Authors: Žák Štefan , Macák Milan , Hašana Roman
Published: April 2012

Influence of Soil Cultivation Technologies and Fertilisation on Productivity and Energy Production of Arable Crops

The influence of three soil tillage technologies and two fertilisation levels on a productivity of crops and biomass for energy use, expressed in yield, cereal units (CU), energy acquired and indicative price of energy per hectare was evaluated at the experimental fields of Research Institute of Plant Production in Piešťany during 2007-2009. The highest yield of dry matter has been identified for maize for silage 19.41 t/ha, followed by winter oilseed rape 15.77 t/ha, triticale 15.39 t/ha and winter wheat 14.08 t/ha. Conventional tillage created soil condition for higher yield of dry matter in an average 17.92 t/ha, followed by minimum soil tillage 16.27 t/ha and no-till-age technology 14.3 t/ha. Nitrogen-based fertilisation (N120) has ensured a significantly higher yield of dry matter and a higher price of acquired energy €491.1 compared with €462.1 of zero-nitrogen fertilisation. The highest yield of cereal units has been identified for maize for silage 9.01 CU, followed by winter wheat 5.21 CU, triticale 4.70 CU and winter oilseed rape 4.55 CU. Energy of maize for silage has been calculated from biogas, winter oilseed rape from rape methyl ester, straw and crop residues, and for winter wheat and triticale from ethanol and straw. Average energy storage in plant biomass of crop rotation was 222.93 GJ/ha. The highest amount of energy acquired has been identified for winter oilseed rape 342.80 GJ/ha, followed by maize for silage with 236.99 GJ/ha, winter triticale 159.39 GJ/ha and winter wheat 152.52 GJ/ha.
Précarité et déclassement des migrantes diplômées non européennes : menace sur leur projet d’émancipation
Authors: Ouali Nouria
Published: April 2012

This article analyzes the position of women migrants of non-European origin in a few job markets in the European Union (EU). It focuses particularly on the situation of migrants with a graduate diploma. In light of the challenges facing women migrants who have to market their diploma or find a job, the author questions the actual aim of the EU call to get more qualified immigrants. She argues that setting up the competition between higher education graduates is akin to the competition that was created in the early post-war period between unqualified workers, which was aimed at bypassing the labour market and making the workforce more flexible. Today, the plethora of qualified workers leads to an inflationary pressure on the diploma and a resulting depreciation of salary. The significant downgrading and unemployment that results has affected specifically non-European women migrants and risk jeopardizing the social integration and the emancipation process that is at the centre of their goals of migration and higher education.
Le degré de déqualification professionnelle et son effet sur les revenus d'emploi des femmes immigrantes membres d'une minorité visible du Québec
Authors: Boulet Maude
Published: April 2012

In recent decades, the increased participation of women in the labour market and the rise in the number of landed immigrants in Canada have largely contributed to transforming the employment market. However, several studies have shown that women, immigrants, and members of visible minority groups continue to make up the most vulnerable segments of the job market. The issue we want to address in this article speaks particularly to outdated skills, which means working in a job that requires an academic level below the one held by that individual. In fact, an individual who is too qualified for a position is not fully using his or her human capital, which constitutes a loss for the individual as well as for society. The author's objective is to verify if the skills of immigrant women who are members of a visible minority in Québec are more at risk of becoming outdated than those of men and women from other groups, resulting in a cross-over between immigrant status and belonging to a visible minority. She also wants to analyze the impact of outdated skills on job income in these different groups in order to identify which group is most penalized by outdated skills in the matter of employment income. Her results, based on the 2006 Census files, show that immigrant women who are members of a visible minority in Québec are indeed the most affected by outdated skills and have, as a general rule, the lowest average weekly employment income of all groups. However, this group does not incur the highest income loss associated with outdated skills.
L'intégration sous condition : valeurs non négociables et égalité des sexes
Authors: Alaoui Myriam Hachimi
Published: April 2012

For a number of years, integration contracts have been implemented in Europe and in North America. With a view to challenging multiculturalism, the goal of these contracts is to ensure that migrants comply, even subscribe, to the non-negotiable values of the host societies. This article addresses the issue of the accommodation and integration contract tried out in France in 2003 and made mandatory in 2007, with a particular focus on the public discussions surrounding its creation as well as its most recent tinkering. After clarifying the political background to its implementation and presenting the clause itself, the author demonstrates how the matter of women constitutes one of the specific issues addressed in the contract. Indeed, the public discussions of the integration contract articulate the reference to non-negotiable values of the Republic while giving central importance to gender equality. This value refers to a universal equality standard, in which, however, equality of the sexes is translated as a cultural norm specific to the French nation. This translation is reinforced by the quasi-systematic reference to polygamy, genital mutilation, forced marriages, and the burqa. The author stresses the limitations of such a usage of the “women's cause”—it may play a significant role in somewhat stigmatizing migrants and may sometimes be used to justify increasingly restrictive immigration policies.
Earthworm Populations in Savannas of the Orinoco Basin. A Review of Studies in Long-Term Agricultural-Managed and Protected Ecosystems
Authors: López-Hernández Danilo
Published: April 2012

Earthworm biomass and production in savannas are limited by seasonal precipitation and the lack of organic and nutrient resources; I hypothesize that after a long-term protection of savanna from fire and agricultural activities drastic changes in the physical and chemical characteristics of the soil occur with a concomitant increase in earthworm abundance and activities. Similar changes might occur after a long-term fertilization of savannas with manure. This review article considers the earthworm communities and other soil quality indices in Trachypogon savannas of the Orinoco Basin in an organic agricultural forestal savanna (OAFS) amended with compost over forty years in Puerto Ayacucho, Venezuela, and in an Experimental Station long-term protected (PS) from fire and cattle raising from more than four decades in Central Llanos, Venezuela, comparison is made with results from similar savannas. Long-term additions of organic manure or a long protection have induced significant changes in the soil physical and chemical properties of the natural savanna (NS) soils that induce a significant increase in the density and biomass of earthworm populations. On the other hand, the protection of the savanna promotes an improvement in the physical and chemical properties of the soil, which favors an increase in the density and biomass of earthworms in the PS compared with the NS subjected to recurrent burning and grazing. The results emphasize the importance of appropriate organic matter management and the relevance of earthworms in such agroecosystems.
Is the Grass Always Greener? Comparing the Environmental Impact of Conventional, Natural and Grass-Fed Beef Production Systems
Authors: Capper Judith L.
Published: April 2012

This study compared the environmental impact of conventional, natural and grass-fed beef production systems. A deterministic model based on the metabolism and nutrient requirements of the beef population was used to quantify resource inputs and waste outputs per 1.0 × 109 kg of hot carcass weight beef in conventional (CON), natural (NAT) and grass-fed (GFD) production systems. Production systems were modeled using characteristic management practices, population dynamics and production data from U.S. beef production systems. Increased productivity (slaughter weight and growth rate) in the CON system reduced the cattle population size required to produce 1.0 × 109 kg of beef compared to the NAT or GFD system. The CON system required 56.3% of the animals, 24.8% of the water, 55.3% of the land and 71.4% of the fossil fuel energy required to produce 1.0 × 109 kg of beef compared to the GFD system. The carbon footprint per 1.0 × 109 kg of beef was lowest in the CON system (15,989 × 103 t), intermediate in the NAT system (18,772 × 103 t) and highest in the GFD system (26,785 × 103 t). The challenge to the U.S beef industry is to communicate differences in system environmental impacts to facilitate informed dietary choice.
Dual-Targeting for the Elimination of Cancer Cells with Increased Selectivity
Authors: Schubert Ingo , Stein Christoph , Fey Georg H.
Published: April 2012

Here we review recombinant proteins with a capability for dual-targeting. These molecules address two different antigens on the same tumor cell and therefore are called “dual-targeting agents”. By virtue of binding a chosen pair of antigens on the malignant cell, preferential binding to antigen double-positive over single-positive cells can be achieved when both are present in the same environment. Therapeutic effects of such agents are based on different modes of action: (1) They can act as pro-apoptotic agents or by inhibiting pro-survival signals; (2) The dual recognition moiety can be fused to effector-domains, such as bacterial toxins or other drugs, leading to the generation of bispecific antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs); (3) Dual-targeting agents can further be used to redirect an effector-cell to the tumor. A new generation of scFv-derived fusion proteins are the tandem single chain triplebodies (sctbs), which carry two scFv binding sites for antigens on the tumor cell plus a third, specific for a trigger molecule on an effector cell. The ability of preferential or selective targeting of antigen double-positive over single-positive cells opens attractive new perspectives for the use of dual-targeting agents in cancer therapy, and possibly also for the treatment of certain inflammatory and autoimmune disorders.
Enhanced Macrophage Tribbles-1 Expression in Murine Experimental Atherosclerosis
Authors: Sung Hye Youn , Francis Sheila E. , Arnold Nadine D. , Holland Karen , Ernst Vanessa , Angyal Adrienn , Kiss-Toth Endre
Published: April 2012

Development of the atherosclerotic plaque involves a complex interplay between a number of cell types and an extensive inter-cellular communication via cell bound as well as soluble mediators. The family of tribbles proteins has recently been identified as novel controllers of pro-inflammatory signal transduction. The objective of this study was to address the expression pattern of all three tribbles proteins in atherosclerotic plaques from a mouse model of atherosclerosis. Each tribbles were expressed in vascular smooth muscle cells, endothelial cells as well as in resident macrophages of mouse atherosclerotic plaques. The role of IL-1 mediated inflammatory events in controlling tribbles expression was also addressed by inducing experimental atherosclerosis in ApoE−/−IL1R1−/− (double knockout) mice. Immunohistochemical analysis of these mice showed a selective decrease in the percentage of trb-1 expressing macrophages, compared to the ApoE−/− cohort (14.7% ± 1.55 vs. 26.3% ± 1.19). The biological significance of this finding was verified in vitro where overexpression of trb-1 in macrophages led to a significant attenuation (~70%) of IL-6 production as well as a suppressed IL-12 expression induced by a proinflammatory stimulus. In this in vitro setting, expression of truncated trb-1 mutants suggests that the kinase domain of this protein is sufficient to exert this inhibitory action.
Optical Gratings Coated with Thin Si3N4 Layer for Efficient Immunosensing by Optical Waveguide Lightmode Spectroscopy
Authors: Diéguez Lorena , Caballero David , Calderer Josep , Moreno Mauricio , Martínez Elena , Samitier Josep
Published: April 2012

New silicon nitride coated optical gratings were tested by means of Optical Waveguide Lightmode Spectroscopy (OWLS). A thin layer of 10 nm of transparent silicon nitride was deposited on commercial optical gratings by means of sputtering. The quality of the layer was tested by x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and atomic force microscopy. As a proof of concept, the sensors were successfully tested with OWLS by monitoring the concentration dependence on the detection of an antibody-protein pair. The potential of the Si3N4 as functional layer in a real-time biosensor opens new ways for the integration of optical waveguides with microelectronics.
The Remains of the Day in Dissociative Amnesia
Authors: Staniloiu Angelica , Markowitsch Hans J.
Published: April 2012

Memory is not a unity, but is divided along a content axis and a time axis, respectively. Along the content dimension, five long-term memory systems are described, according to their hierarchical ontogenetic and phylogenetic organization. These memory systems are assumed to be accompanied by different levels of consciousness. While encoding is based on a hierarchical arrangement of memory systems from procedural to episodic-autobiographical memory, retrieval allows independence in the sense that no matter how information is encoded, it can be retrieved in any memory system. Thus, we illustrate the relations between various long-term memory systems by reviewing the spectrum of abnormalities in mnemonic processing that may arise in the dissociative amnesia—a condition that is usually characterized by a retrieval blockade of episodic-autobiographical memories and occurs in the context of psychological trauma, without evidence of brain damage on conventional structural imaging. Furthermore, we comment on the functions of implicit memories in guiding and even adaptively molding the behavior of patients with dissociative amnesia and preserving, in the absence of autonoetic consciousness, the so-called “internal coherence of life”.
The Synthesis and Molecular Structure of 2-(4-Methoxybenzyl)-4-nitro-2H-indazole
Authors: Ebert Kristin , Köckerling Martin , Mamat Constantin
Published: April 2012

Two novel indazole derivatives protected with p-methoxybenzyl group were synthesized and characterized. The crystal and molecular structure of 2-(4-methoxybenzyl)-4-nitro-2H-indazole as one out of the two regioisomers is reported. The compound was obtained from a saturated petroleum ether/ethyl acetate mixture and crystallizes in the triclinic space group P`1. The unit cell parameters are: a = 6.8994(1) Å, b = 9.8052(2) Å, c = 11.1525(2) Å; α = 71.729(1)°, β = 79.436(1)°, γ = 74.349(1)° and V = 685.83(2) Å3. There are two independent molecules found in the asymmetric unit.
A New BEDT-TTF-Based Organic Charge Transfer Salt with a New Anionic Strong Acceptor, N,N'-Disulfo-1,4-benzoquinonediimine
Authors: Akutsu Hiroki , Yamada Jun-ichi , Nakatsuji Shin’ichi , Turner Scott S.
Published: April 2012

A novel organic dianion, N,N'-Disulfo-1,4-benzoquinonediimine (1) has been prepared, which is a strong electron acceptor. The reduction potential of the PPh4 salt indicates that 1 is a stronger acceptor than DDQ (2,3-dichloro-5,6-dicyano-1,4-benzoquinone). The dianionic acceptor provided a BEDT-TTF salt, (BEDT-TTF)41·3H2O, the structures and physical properties of which are reported.
Ammonia Uptake and Release in the MnX2–NH3 (X = Cl, Br) Systems and Structure of the Mn(NH3)nX2 (n = 6, 2) Ammines
Authors: Reardon Hazel , Hanlon James M. , Grant Michael , Fullbrook Imogen , Gregory Duncan H.
Published: April 2012

Hexa-ammine complexes, Mn(NH3)6X2 (X = Cl, Br), have been synthesized by ammoniation of the corresponding transition metal halide and characterized by Powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD) and Raman spectroscopy. The hexa-ammine complexes are isostructural (Cubic, Fm-3m, Z = 4; a = 10.2742(6) Å and 10.527(1) Å for X = Cl, Br respectively). Temperature programmed desorption (TPD) demonstrated that ammonia release from Mn(NH3)6X2 complexes occurred in three stages corresponding to the release of 4, 1 and 1 NH3 equivalents respectively. The chloride and bromide both exhibit a deammoniation onset temperature below 323 K. The di-ammoniates from the first desorption step were isolated during TPD measurements and their crystal structures determined by Rietveld refinement against PXRD data (X = Cl: orthorhombic Cmmm, a = 8.1991(9) Å, b = 8.2498(7) Å, c = 3.8212(4) Å, Z = 2; X = Br: orthorhombic Pbam, a = 6.0109(5) Å, b = 12.022(1) Å, c = 4.0230(2) Å, Z = 2).
Protein Loop Dynamics Are Complex and Depend on the Motions of the Whole Protein
Authors: Zimmermann Michael T. , Jernigan Robert L.
Published: April 2012

We investigate the relationship between the motions of the same peptide loop segment incorporated within a protein structure and motions of free or end-constrained peptides. As a reference point we also compare against alanine chains having the same length as the loop. Both the analysis of atomic molecular dynamics trajectories and structure-based elastic network models, reveal no general dependence on loop length or on the number of solvent exposed residues. Rather, the whole structure affects the motions in complex ways that depend strongly and specifically on the tertiary structure of the whole protein. Both the Elastic Network Models and Molecular Dynamics confirm the differences in loop dynamics between the free and structured contexts; there is strong agreement between the behaviors observed from molecular dynamics and the elastic network models. There is no apparent simple relationship between loop mobility and its size, exposure, or position within a loop. Free peptides do not behave the same as the loops in the proteins. Surface loops do not behave as if they were random coils, and the tertiary structure has a critical influence upon the apparent motions. This strongly implies that entropy evaluation of protein loops requires knowledge of the motions of the entire protein structure.
Isolation and Characterization of Twelve Polymorphic Microsatellite Loci for the Cocoa Mirid Bug Sahlbergella Singularis
Authors: Babin Régis , Fenouillet Catherine , Legavre Thierry , Blondin Laurence , Calatayud Caroline , Risterucci Ange-Marie , Chapuis Marie-Pierre
Published: April 2012

Mirids are the primary pests affecting cocoa production in Africa, but no genetic studies have been conducted on these insects. Here we report the isolation and characterization of 12 polymorphic microsatellite loci for Sahlbergella singularis. A microsatellite-enriched genomic DNA library was developed and screened to identify marker loci. Twelve polymorphic loci were identified by screening 28 individuals collected from one presumed population in cocoa plantations in Southern Cameroon. The number of alleles ranged from 5 to 25, whereas the observed and the expected heterozygosities ranged from 0.179 to 0.786 and from 0.671 to 0.946, respectively. Tests showed significant deviations from HW equilibrium for four loci, but no linkage disequilibrium was detected at any of the loci. No cross-species amplification was observed in two other mirid pests in Africa.
Expression of Transient Receptor Potential Vanilloid (TRPV) Channels in Different Passages of Articular Chondrocytes
Authors: Hdud Ismail M. , El-Shafei Abdelrafea A. , Loughna Paul , Barrett-Jolley Richard , Mobasheri Ali
Published: April 2012

Ion channels play important roles in chondrocyte mechanotransduction. The transient receptor potential vanilloid (TRPV) subfamily of ion channels consists of six members. TRPV1-4 are temperature sensitive calcium-permeable, relatively non-selective cation channels whereas TRPV5 and TRPV6 show high selectivity for calcium over other cations. In this study we investigated the effect of time in culture and passage number on the expression of TRPV4, TRPV5 and TRPV6 in articular chondrocytes isolated from equine metacarpophalangeal joints. Polyclonal antibodies raised against TRPV4, TRPV5 and TRPV6 were used to compare the expression of these channels in lysates from first expansion chondrocytes (P0) and cells from passages 1–3 (P1, P2 and P3) by western blotting. TRPV4, TRPV5 and TRPV6 were expressed in all passages examined. Immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence confirmed the presence of these channels in sections of formalin fixed articular cartilage and monolayer cultures of methanol fixed P2 chondrocytes. TRPV5 and TRPV6 were upregulated with time and passage in culture suggesting that a shift in the phenotype of the cells in monolayer culture alters the expression of these channels. In conclusion, several TRPV channels are likely to be involved in calcium signaling and homeostasis in chondrocytes.
Sputtered Modified Barium Titanate for Thin-Film Capacitor Applications
Authors: Reynolds Glyn J. , Kratzer Martin , Dubs Martin , Felzer Heinz , Mamazza Robert
Published: April 2012

New apparatus and a new process for the sputter deposition of modified barium titanate thin-films were developed. Films were deposited at temperatures up to 900 °C from a Ba0.96Ca0.04Ti0.82Zr0.18O3 (BCZTO) target directly onto Si, Ni and Pt surfaces and characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Film texture and crystallinity were found to depend on both deposition temperature and substrate: above 600 °C, the as-deposited films consisted of well-facetted crystallites with the cubic perovskite structure. A strongly textured Pt (111) underlayer enhanced the (001) orientation of BCZTO films deposited at 900 °C, 10 mtorr pressure and 10% oxygen in argon. Similar films deposited onto a Pt (111) textured film at 700 °C and directly onto (100) Si wafers showed relatively larger (011) and diminished intensity (00ℓ) diffraction peaks. Sputter ambients containing oxygen caused the Ni underlayers to oxidize even at 700 °C: Raising the process temperature produced more diffraction peaks of NiO with increased intensities. Thin-film capacitors were fabricated using ~500 nm thick BCZTO dielectrics and both Pt and Ni top and bottom electrodes. Small signal capacitance measurements were carried out to determine capacitance and parallel resistance at low frequencies and from these data, the relative permittivity (er) and resistivity (r) of the dielectric films were calculated; values ranged from ~50 to >2,000, and from ~104 to ~1010 Ω∙cm, respectively.
Astaxanthin Treatment Reduced Oxidative Induced Pro-Inflammatory Cytokines Secretion in U937: SHP-1 as a Novel Biological Target
Authors: Speranza Lorenza , Pesce Mirko , Patruno Antonia , Franceschelli Sara , Lutiis Maria Anna de , Grilli Alfredo , Felaco Mario
Published: April 2012

It has been suggested that oxidative stress activates various intracellular signaling pathways leading to secretion of a variety of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines. SHP-1 is a protein tyrosine phosphatase (PTP) which acts as a negative regulator of immune cytokine signaling. However, intracellular hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), generated endogenously upon stimulation and exogenously from environmental oxidants, has been known to be involved in the process of intracellular signaling through inhibiting various PTPs, including SHP-1. In this study, we investigated the potential role of astaxanthin, an antioxidant marine carotenoid, in re-establishing SHP-1 negative regulation on pro-inflammatory cytokines secretion in U-937 cell line stimulated with oxidative stimulus. ELISA measurement suggested that ASTA treatment (10 µM) reduced pro-inflammatory cytokines secretion (IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α) induced through H2O2, (100 µM). Furthermore, this property is elicited by restoration of basal SHP-1 protein expression level and reduced NF-κB (p65) nuclear expression, as showed by western blotting experiments.
Flexible Tactile Sensor Using Polyurethane Thin Film
Authors: Suzuki Masato , Takahashi Tomokazu , Aoyagi Seiji
Published: April 2012

A novel capacitive tactile sensor using a polyurethane thin film is proposed in this paper. In previous studies, capacitive tactile sensors generally had an air gap between two electrodes in order to enhance the sensitivity. In this study, there is only polyurethane thin film and no air gap between the electrodes. The sensitivity of this sensor is higher than the previous capacitive tactile sensors because the polyurethane is a fairly flexible elastomer and the film is very thin (about 1 µm). The polyurethane film is formed by spin-coating and etched back from 6 µm to 1 µm using 48% sulfuric acid. As a result of evaluation, the sensitivity of the developed sensor (diameter is 1 mm) is 1.3 pF/Pa (800 pF/N considering the sensing area). Young’s modulus of the thin polyurethane film was estimated to be 20 kPa.
Enantioseparation and Absolute Configuration Determination of Angular-Type Pyranocoumarins from Peucedani Radix Using Enzymatic Hydrolysis and Chiral HPLC-MS/MS Analysis
Authors: Song Yue-Lin , Zhang Qing-Wen , Li Ya-Ping , Yan Ru , Wang Yi-Tao
Published: April 2012

Angular-type pyranocoumarins from Peucedani Radix (Chinese name: Qian-hu) have exhibited potential for use on treatment of cancer and pulmonary hypertension. Due to the existence of C-3′ and C-4′ chiral centers, compounds belonging to this chemical type commonly exist in enantiomers and/or diastereoisomers, which may elicit distinct activities during their interactions with the human body. In the present study, a new method, which combines enzymatic hydrolysis with chiral LC-MS/MS analysis, has been developed to determine the absolute configurations of these angular-type pyranocoumarins. Pyranocoumarins isolated from Qian-hu, their enantiomers, or metabolites were individually incubated with rat liver microsomes. As the common end product from enzymatic hydrolysis of all tested pyranocoumarins, cis-khellactone was collected and its absolute configuration was determined by comparison with (+)-cis-khellactone and (−)-cis-khellactone using chiral LC-MS/MS. The absolute configurations of all tested parent pyranocoumarins were determined by combination of LC-MS/MS, NMR and polarimetric analysis. The results revealed that the metabolite cis-khellactone retained the same absolute configurations of the stereogenic carbons as the respective parent compound. This method was proven to be rapid and sensitive and also has advantages in discriminating single enantiomers and mixtures of optical isomers with different ratios.
(E)-5-Styryl-1H-indole and (E)-6-Styrylquinoline Derivatives Serve as Probes for β-Amyloid Plaques
Authors: Yang Yang , Jia Hong-Mei , Liu Bo-Li
Published: April 2012

We report the synthesis and biological evaluation of novel (E)-5-styryl-1H-indole and (E)-6-styrylquinoline derivatives as probes for imaging β-amyloid (Aβ) plaques. These derivatives showed binding affinities for Aβ1–40 aggregates with Ki values varying from 4.1 to 288.4 nM. (E)-5-(4-iodostyryl)-1H-indole (8) clearly stained Aβ plaques in the brain sections of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) model mice (APP/PS1). Furthermore, autoradiography for [125I]8 displayed intense and specific labeling of Aβ plaques in the brain sections mentioned above with low background. In biodistribution experiments using normal mice [125I]8 showed high initial brain uptake followed by rapid washout (4.27 and 0.64% ID/g at 2 and 30 min post injection, respectively). These findings suggests that [123I]8 may be a potential SPECT imaging agent for detecting Aβ plaques in AD brain.
One-Pot Synthesis of Disperse Dyes Under Microwave Irradiation: Dyebath Reuse in Dyeing of Polyester Fabrics
Authors: Al-Etaibi Alya M. , El-Apasery Morsy A. , Mahmoud Huda M. , Al-Awadi Nouria A.
Published: April 2012

A series of 4-hydroxyphenylazopyrazolopyrimidine disperse dyes were prepared via one-pot reactions of p-hydroxyphenylhydrazone, hydrazine hydrate, and acetylacetone or enaminones using microwave irradiation as an energy source. Structural assignments of the dyes were confirmed by X-ray crystallographic structure determination. Instead of discharging the dyebath after each dyeing cycle, the residual dyebath was spectrophotometrically analyzed and then pH readjusted for a repeat dyeing with longer time. Fastness of the dyed samples was measured after each recycle. Most of the dyed fabrics tested displayed good light fastness and excellent fastness to washing and perspiration. Finally, the biological activity of the synthesized dyes against Gram positive bacteria, Gram negative bacteria and yeast were evaluated.
Evaluation of Antioxidant and Immunity Activities of Quercetin in Isoproterenol-Treated Rats
Authors: Liu Hui , Zhang Lei , Lu Shaoping
Published: April 2012

The present study was designed to evaluate the effect of quercetin on myocardial oxidative stress and immunity function impairment induced by isoproterenol in rats. To induce myocardial ischemia, Wistar rats were subcutaneously injected with isoproterenol (70 mg/kg). Blood immunity index, cardiac marker enzymes and antioxidative parameters in hearts were measured. It was found that the levels of blood AST, creatine kinase, NO, NOS, IL-10, IL-1, IL-8 and lactate dehydrogenase in isoproterenol-treated rats were significantly increased. The rats administrated with isoproterenol showed the declines in myocardial antioxidant enzymes activities. Administration of quercetin significantly ameliorated myocardial oxidative injury and immunity function impairment induced by isoproterenol. The results indicated that quercetin possesses activity against isoproterenol-induced myocardial oxidative injury and immunity function impairment, and that the mechanism of pharmacological action was related at least in part to the antioxidant activity of quercetin.
Synthesis and Calcium Mobilization Activity of cADPR Analogues Which Integrate Nucleobase, Northern and Southern Ribose Modifications
Authors: Zhou Yue , Yu Peilin , Jin Hongwei , Yang Zhenjun , Yue Jianbo , Zhang Liangren , Zhang Lihe
Published: April 2012

Novel cADPR mimics, which integrate nucleobase, northern and southern ribose modifications were synthesized. The key steps of the synthesis were a Cu(I)-catalyzed Hüisgen [3+2] cycloaddition and a microwave-assisted intramolecular pyrophosphorylation. Preliminary biological investigations showed that these cADPR mimics are membrane-permeating agonists of the calcium signaling pathway. The introduction of chlorine or fluorine at the 2'-position of the southern riboses led to a decrease of activity. The existence of a hydrophobic group on the 3'-OH of the southern riboses does not obviously alter the agonistic activity.
The Australian Paradox
Authors: Howe Peter
Published: April 2012

Nutrients recently became the target of an unprecedented internet campaign by an individual who disagrees with the content and conclusions of a paper published in the journal last year, viz. “The Australian Paradox: A Substantial Decline in Sugars Intake over the Same Timeframe that Overweight and Obesity Have Increased” by Alan W. Barclay and Jennie Brand-Miller, Nutrients 2011, 3, 491–504. Regrettably, his criticism has extended to the journal and its peer review processes for permitting publication of the article. [...]
Spiritual Exemplars: An Introduction
Authors: Scarlett W. George
Published: April 2012

This essay introduces the special issue, provides criteria for evaluating spiritual exemplars, presents a case study to illustrate how spiritual exemplars can extend our knowledge of spiritual development, and makes important distinctions between types of exemplars and between positive and pathological spirituality.
Effect of Grain Size and Mineral Mixing on Carbonate Absorption Features in the SWIR and TIR Wavelength Regions
Authors: Zaini Nasrullah , Van der Meer Freek , Van der Werff Harald
Published: April 2012

Reflectance spectra of carbonate minerals in the shortwave infrared (SWIR) and thermal infrared (TIR) wavelength regions contain a number of diagnostic absorption features. The shape of these features depends on various physical and chemical parameters. To accurately identify carbonate minerals or rocks in pure and mixed form, it is necessary to analyze the effects of the parameters on spectral characteristics. In this study, we analyzed spectral absorption feature characteristics of calcite and dolomite in the SWIR (features at 2.3 and 2.5 μm) and TIR (features at 11.5 and 14 μm) wavelength regions, as a function of grain size and carbonate mineral mixtures. Results showed that varying grain sizes and mineral contents in the sample, influence reflectance values and absorption feature characteristics. Absorption band positions of pure and mixed calcite and dolomite in the SWIR and TIR regions for both features were displaced slightly as observed in previous studies. The band positions of calcite and dolomite varied relative to grain size only in the TIR region. These positions shifted to longer wavelengths for the feature at 11.5 μm and to shorter wavelengths for the feature at 14 μm from fine to coarse grain size. The band positions of calcite-dolomite mixtures in the SWIR and TIR regions were determined by the quantity of calcite and dolomite in the sample. These results can be applied for the identification of pure and mixed calcite and dolomite, as well as estimating the relative abundance of both minerals with different grain size and mineral mixtures in a synthetic sample or rock. They can also be used as a preliminary proxy for assessing dolomitization patterns in carbonate rocks.
A Network Coding Based Routing Protocol for Underwater Sensor Networks
Authors: Wu Huayang , Chen Min , Guan Xin
Published: April 2012

Due to the particularities of the underwater environment, some negative factors will seriously interfere with data transmission rates, reliability of data communication, communication range, and network throughput and energy consumption of underwater sensor networks (UWSNs). Thus, full consideration of node energy savings, while maintaining a quick, correct and effective data transmission, extending the network life cycle are essential when routing protocols for underwater sensor networks are studied. In this paper, we have proposed a novel routing algorithm for UWSNs. To increase energy consumption efficiency and extend network lifetime, we propose a time-slot based routing algorithm (TSR).We designed a probability balanced mechanism and applied it to TSR. The theory of network coding is introduced to TSBR to meet the requirement of further reducing node energy consumption and extending network lifetime. Hence, time-slot based balanced network coding (TSBNC) comes into being. We evaluated the proposed time-slot based balancing routing algorithm and compared it with other classical underwater routing protocols. The simulation results show that the proposed protocol can reduce the probability of node conflicts, shorten the process of routing construction, balance energy consumption of each node and effectively prolong the network lifetime.
Template Free Synthesis of Hollow Ball-Like Nano-Fe2O3 and Its Application to the Detection of Dimethyl Methylphosphonate at Room Temperature
Authors: Fan Guokang , Wang You , Hu Meng , Luo Zhiyuan , Zhang Kaihuan , Li Guang
Published: April 2012

This paper is focused on the template-free synthesis of nanosized ferric oxide (nano-Fe2O3) and its application in quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) resonators to detect dimethyl methylphosphonate (DMMP), a simulant of Sarin. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns confirm that the synthesized samples are made of Fe2O3 and the scanning electron microscopy (SEM) pictures show that the samples have ball-like shapes. The DMMP sensors with a sensing film of hollow ball-like and solid ball-like Fe2O3 are fabricated and their sensing characteristics are compared. The sensitivity of the hollow ball-like Fe2O3 sensor is more than 500% higher than the one of the solid ball-like Fe2O3 sensor. The hollow ball-like nano-Fe2O3 can be synthesized by a novel low temperature hydrothermal method. The sensors with the hollow ball-like Fe2O3 film perform well in a range of 1 to 6 ppm, with a sensitivity of 29 Hz/ppm at room temperature, while the appropriate recoverability and selectivity are maintained. In addition, the performance of different thicknesses of the sensing film of the hollow ball-like nano-Fe2O3 is investigated and the optimized relative film thickness of the hollow ball-like nano-Fe2O3 is found to be 20 μg/mm2.
Nanotechnology and the Treatment of HIV Infection
Authors: Parboosing Raveen , Maguire Glenn E. M. , Govender Patrick , Kruger Hendrik G.
Published: April 2012

Suboptimal adherence, toxicity, drug resistance and viral reservoirs make the lifelong treatment of HIV infection challenging. The emerging field of nanotechnology may play an important role in addressing these challenges by creating drugs that possess pharmacological advantages arising out of unique phenomena that occur at the “nano” scale. At these dimensions, particles have physicochemical properties that are distinct from those of bulk materials or single molecules or atoms. In this review, basic concepts and terms in nanotechnology are defined, and examples are provided of how nanopharmaceuticals such as nanocrystals, nanocapsules, nanoparticles, solid lipid nanoparticles, nanocarriers, micelles, liposomes and dendrimers have been investigated as potential anti-HIV therapies. Such drugs may, for example, be used to optimize the pharmacological characteristics of known antiretrovirals, deliver anti-HIV nucleic acids into infected cells or achieve targeted delivery of antivirals to the immune system, brain or latent reservoirs. Also, nanopharmaceuticals themselves may possess anti-HIV activity. However several hurdles remain, including toxicity, unwanted biological interactions and the difficulty and cost of large-scale synthesis of nanopharmaceuticals.