bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hormetic Signaling Patterns
Authors: Wetzker Reinhard , Rubio Ignacio
Published: October 2011

Organisms are perpetually facing noxious insults but exhibit surprising diverse reaction patterns. Depending on the strength, frequency and quality of the stress stimuli biological systems may react with increased vitality, future stress resistance or with injury and degeneration. Whereas a multitude of such specific stress responses has been observed in diverse biological systems the underlying molecular mechanisms are mainly unknown. These knowledge restrictions urge the exploration of specific molecular signaling reactions controlling the ambivalent responses of cells and organisms to noxious effects. The adaptive responses of signaling networks to defined stress stimuli need to be investigated in a time-and dose-resolved manner in cellular and organismic models. Anticipated results are expected to significantly advance the understanding of the molecular signatures of stress responses and may also promote ongoing efforts for the effective use of the organism's preventive and regenerative potentials in modern medicine.
Residential Radon Appears to Prevent Lung Cancer
Authors: Scott Bobby R.
Published: October 2011

Residential radon has been found to be associated with lung cancer in epidemiological/ecological studies and the researchers have inappropriately concluded that residential radon causes lung cancer. Their conclusion relates to the linear-no-threshold (LNT) hypothesis-based, risk-assessment paradigm; however, the LNT hypothesis has been invalidated in numerous studies. It is shown in this paper that our hormetic relative risk (HRR) model is consistent with lung cancer data where detailed measurements of radon in each home were carried out. Based on the HRR model, low-level radon radioactive progeny is credited for activated natural protection (ANP) against lung cancer including smoking-related lung cancer. The proportion B( x) (benefit function) of ANP beneficiaries increases as the average radon level x increases to near the Environmental Protection Agency's action level of 4 picocuries/L (approximately 150 Bq m−3). As the average level of radon increases to somewhat above the action level, ANP beneficiaries progressively decrease to zero ( B( x) decreases to 0), facilitating the occurrence of smoking-related lung cancers as well as those related to other less important risk factors. Thus, residential radon does not appear to cause lung cancer but rather to protect, in an exposure-level-dependent manner, from its induction by other agents (e.g., cigarette-smoke-related carcinogens).
Low-Dose Nonlinear Effects of Smoking on Coronary Heart Disease Risk
Authors: Cox Louis Anthony (Tony)
Published: October 2011

Some recent discussions of adverse human health effects of active and passive smoking have suggested that low levels of exposure are disproportionately dangerous, so that “The effects of even brief (minutes to hours) passive smoking are often nearly as large (averaging 80% to 90%) as chronic active smoking” ( Barnoya and Glantz, 2005 ). Recent epidemiological evidence ( Teo et al., 2006 ) suggests a more linear relation. This paper reexamines the empirical relation between self-reported low levels of active smoking and risk of coronary heart disease (CHD) in public-domain data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Consistent with biological evidence on J-shaped and U-shaped relations between smoking-associated risk factors and CHD risks, we find that low levels of active smoking do not appear to be associated with increased CHD risk. Several methodological challenges in epidemiology may explain how model-derived estimates can predict low-dose linear or concave dose-response estimates, even if the empirical (i.e., data-based) relation does not show a clear increased risk at the lowest doses.
Convergence of the Insulin and Serotonin Programs in the Pancreatic β-Cell
Authors: Ohta Yasuharu , Kosaka Yasuhiro , Kishimoto Nina , Wang Juehu , Smith Stuart B. , Honig Gerard , Kim Hail , Gasa Rosa M. , Neubauer Nicole , Liou Angela , Tecott Laurence H. , Deneris Evan S. , German Michael S.
Published: October 2011

OBJECTIVE

Despite their origins in different germ layers, pancreatic islet cells share many common developmental features with neurons, especially serotonin-producing neurons in the hindbrain. Therefore, we tested whether these developmental parallels have functional consequences.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We used transcriptional profiling, immunohistochemistry, DNA-binding analyses, and mouse genetic models to assess the expression and function of key serotonergic genes in the pancreas.

RESULTS

We found that islet cells expressed the genes encoding all of the products necessary for synthesizing, packaging, and secreting serotonin, including both isoforms of the serotonin synthetic enzyme tryptophan hydroxylase and the archetypal serotonergic transcription factor Pet1. As in serotonergic neurons, Pet1 expression in islets required homeodomain transcription factor Nkx2.2 but not Nkx6.1. In β-cells, Pet1 bound to the serotonergic genes but also to a conserved insulin gene regulatory element. Mice lacking Pet1 displayed reduced insulin production and secretion and impaired glucose tolerance.

CONCLUSIONS

These studies demonstrate that a common transcriptional cascade drives the differentiation of β-cells and serotonergic neurons and imparts the shared ability to produce serotonin. The interrelated biology of these two cell types has important implications for the pathology and treatment of diabetes.
Modulation of β-Adrenergic Receptors in the Ventromedial Hypothalamus Influences Counterregulatory Responses to Hypoglycemia
Authors: Szepietowska Barbara , Zhu Wanling , Chan Owen , Horblitt Adam , Dziura James , Sherwin Robert S.
Published: October 2011

OBJECTIVE

Norepinephrine is locally released into the ventromedial hypothalamus (VMH), a key brain glucose-sensing region in the response to hypoglycemia. As a result, this neurotransmitter may play a role in modulating counterregulatory responses. This study examines whether norepinephrine acts to promote glucose counterregulation via specific VMH β-adrenergic receptors (BAR).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Awake male Sprague-Dawley rats received, via implanted guide cannulae, bilateral VMH microinjections of 1) artificial extracellular fluid, 2) B2AR agonist, or 3) B2AR antagonist. Subsequently, a hyperinsulinemic-hypoglycemic clamp study was performed. The same protocol was also used to assess the effect of VMH delivery of a selective B1AR or B3AR antagonist.

RESULTS

Despite similar insulin and glucose concentrations during the clamp, activation of B2AR in the VMH significantly lowered by 32% (P < 0.01), whereas VMH B2AR blockade raised by 27% exogenous glucose requirements during hypoglycemia (P < 0.05) compared with the control study. These changes were associated with alternations in counterregulatory hormone release. Epinephrine responses throughout hypoglycemia were significantly increased by 50% when the B2AR agonist was delivered to the VMH (P < 0.01) and suppressed by 32% with the B2AR antagonist (P < 0.05). The glucagon response was also increased by B2AR activation by 63% (P < 0.01). Neither blockade of VMH B1AR nor B3AR suppressed counterregulatory responses to hypoglycemia. Indeed, the B1AR antagonist increased rather than decreased epinephrine release (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Local catecholamine release into the VMH enhances counterregulatory responses to hypoglycemia via stimulation of B2AR. These observations suggest that B2AR agonists might have therapeutic benefit in diabetic patients with defective glucose counterregulation.
Autologous Umbilical Cord Blood Transfusion in Young Children With Type 1 Diabetes Fails to Preserve C-Peptide
Authors: Haller Michael J. , Wasserfall Clive H. , Hulme Maigan A. , Cintron Miriam , Brusko Todd M. , McGrail Kieran M. , Sumrall Theresa M. , Wingard John R. , Theriaque Douglas W. , Shuster Jonathan J. , Atkinson Mark A. , Schatz Desmond A.
Published: October 2011

OBJECTIVE

We conducted an open-label, phase I study using autologous umbilical cord blood (UCB) infusion to ameliorate type 1 diabetes (T1D). Having previously reported on the first 15 patients reaching 1 year of follow-up, herein we report on the complete cohort after 2 years of follow-up.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A total of 24 T1D patients (median age 5.1 years) received a single intravenous infusion of autologous UCB cells and underwent metabolic and immunologic assessments.

RESULTS

No infusion-related adverse events were observed. β-Cell function declined after UCB infusion. Area under the curve C-peptide was 24.3% of baseline 1 year postinfusion (P < 0.001) and 2% of baseline 2 years after infusion (P < 0.001). Flow cytometry revealed increased regulatory T cells (Tregs) (P = 0.04) and naive Tregs (P = 0.001) 6 and 9 months after infusion, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Autologous UCB infusion in children with T1D is safe and induces changes in Treg frequency but fails to preserve C-peptide.
Supervised Exercise Training Counterbalances the Adverse Effects of Insulin Therapy in Overweight/Obese Subjects With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Balducci Stefano , Zanuso Silvano , Cardelli Patrizia , Salerno Gerardo , Fallucca Sara , Nicolucci Antonio , Pugliese Giuseppe ,   for the Italian Diabetes Exercise Study (IDES) Investigators
Published: October 2011

OBJECTIVE

To examine the effect of supervised exercise on traditional and nontraditional cardiovascular risk factors in sedentary, overweight/obese insulin-treated subjects with type 2 diabetes from the Italian Diabetes Exercise Study (IDES).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

The study randomized 73 insulin-treated patients to twice weekly supervised aerobic and resistance training plus structured exercise counseling (EXE) or to counseling alone (CON) for 12 months. Clinical and laboratory parameters were assessed at baseline and at the end of the study.

RESULTS

The volume of physical activity was significantly higher in the EXE versus the CON group. Values for hemoglobin A1c, BMI, waist circumference, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, blood pressure, LDL cholesterol, and the coronary heart disease risk score were significantly reduced only in the EXE group. No major adverse events were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

In insulin-treated subjects with type 2 diabetes, supervised exercise is safe and effective in improving glycemic control and markers of adiposity and inflammation, thus counterbalancing the adverse effects of insulin on these parameters.
Innovative Methods of Archiving, Presentation and Providing Access to Histological Sections
Authors: Filipiak Krystyna , Malińska Agnieszka , Krupa Dariusz , Zabel Maciej
Published: October 2011

The dynamic development of technical sciences and informatics makes now possible acquisition of microscopic images of histological sections, not only using digital cameras, but also through specialized devices called scanners. The digitalized images stored in a computer storage device are called virtual slides and, together with special software, are known as virtual microscopy. The virtual slides can be analyzed on a computer screen by panoramic viewing or using a detailed image examination at higher magnification. In many research and education institutions in both the U.S. and Europe, the virtual microscopy is used for teaching and training purposes. In the academic year of 2009/10, Department of Histology and Embryology, University of Medical Sciences in Poznan, as one of the first in Poland, has created a virtual database for educational purposes. This database created by archiving the traditional images of histological slides in the form of digital images. So far, more than 130 virtual slides have been acquired and catalogued in 24 thematic folders, available for medical students participating in histology, embryology and cell biology courses.

Telepathology is the second branch which uses virtual microscopy. Virtual microscope allows to discuss and resolve medical/diagnostic problems with the use of telecommunication systems and information technology. The existing internet platforms offer access to virtual microscopes and virtual slides. In June, 2011 the Center of Morphologic Images Archivization and Digital Database of Microscopic Pictures in the Department of Histology and Embryology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences has launched an online platform (www.caom.pl), aimed to provide the central database of scanned histological sections of physiological tissues, and pathological, rare and sporadic lesions, including tumor
An Extension of BPMN Meta-model for Evaluation of Business Processes
Authors: Lodhi Azeem , Küppen Veit , Saake Gunter
Published: October 2011

An Extension of BPMN Meta-model for Evaluation of Business Processes

Business process modeling is used for better understanding and communication of company's processes. Mostly, business process modeling is discussed from the information system development perspective. Execution of a business process involves various factors (costs and time) which are important and should be represented in business process models. Controlling of business units uses post execution analysis for detection of failures for improvement. The process models conceived for information system development are not sufficient for post execution analysis. This paper focuses on the challenges of business process modeling in the post execution context. We provide a meta model for evaluation of a business process and discuss BPMN in this context. We also extend existing BPMN meta model for performance analysis of business processes. The proposed extensions are presented with the help of an example.
A Method for Documenting Modifications in ERP Systems
Authors: Ebersteins Martins , Grabis Janis
Published: October 2011

A Method for Documenting Modifications in ERP Systems

Modern Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems are highly complex. This complexity is further increased by introducing modifications into the standard functionality. Maintenance and evolution of ERP systems becomes unmanageable if modifications are not properly documented. This paper elaborates a method for documenting and analyzing modifications made in ERP systems. These modifications are classified according to their impact on the standard functionality and a set of parameters for defining each modification is established. A template for describing modifications is also developed. The modifications are stored in the register of modifications and spreadsheet tools are used for analyzing these modifications. The analysis example is provided. It demonstrates identification of relationships between modifications and impact of modifications on elements of the standard system.
A Computer-aided Production System for Mass Customization in Fashion
Authors: Lu Jun-Ming , Wang Mao-Jiun
Published: October 2011

A Computer-aided Production System for Mass Customization in Fashion

In order to meet the demands of the market, a computer-aided production system for mass customization in fashion is proposed. The system enables the automation of dimension collection, pattern generation and fabric cutting. By integrating the system with the processes of garment sewing, fitting test and final adjustment, mass customization can be realized in the apparel industry. For the manufacturers, the efficiency of the supply chain can be improved by reducing human efforts, costs, and production time. For the customers, better fitness with faster delivery stimulates the desire of purchase and enhances their satisfaction.
On Precision Kinematic Accelerations for Airborne Gravimetry
Authors: Jekeli Ch.
Published: October 2011

On Precision Kinematic Accelerations for Airborne Gravimetry

Advances in accelerometer technology promise many orders of magnitude improvement in sensitivity; which, consequently, also suggest progress in Earth Science applications, such as through new airborne gravimetric systems. However, a new capability for one sensor then usually demands commensurate requirements from auxiliary sensors in order to realize its full potential. Specifically, airborne gravimetry would benefit from improved inertial accelerometry only if the kinematic acceleration derived from vehicle tracking or positioning is equally precise. The latter is investigated in this study to determine the limits in precision due to errors in modeling the numerical derivative and due to errors in the positions, themselves. Simulations with actual aircraft trajectories show that the kinematic acceleration using current positioning capability (that is, GPS or similar satellite navigation systems) can be determined to an accuracy at the sub-milligal level only with sufficient smoothing over intervals of 60 s or longer. The effects of position error still dominate over the model error, and both are many orders of magnitude greater than the predicted precision of state-of-the-art accelerometry. This suggests that airborne gravity field determination likely will profit more if the advances in inertial sensor technology are directed toward gravity gradiometry.
Loss optimization in double fishnet metamaterials at telecommunication wavelengths
Authors: Iyer S. , Popov S. , Friberg A. T.
Published: October 2011

A hole shape optimization study was made for a double fishnet metamaterial producing a negative index of refraction within 1.4 - 1.5 µm. It is found that within these wavelengths, elliptical holes offer lower losses as compared to rectangular ones and theoretically produce the best figure of merit (FOM) of approximately 6.
Reducing Restraint and Seclusion in an Acute Aged Person's Mental Health Unit
Authors: Sivakumaran Hemalatha , George Kuruvilla , Pfukwa Ken
Published: October 2011

Objective: This paper describes how a significant reduction in restraint and seclusion rates was achieved in an acute aged person's mental health unit.

Method: We analysed seclusion and restraint data in 2009. This was supplemented with a random audit of patient files and qualitative data obtained from a survey of nursing staff. We also obtained management views on changes in management practice.

Results: Four major factors were found to reduce rates of restraints and seclusion. These included: (i) leadership and support from management in nursing practices, (ii) increased multidisciplinary team input, (iii) renovations to the inpatient setting, and (iv) changes in treatment-related factors such as collection of behaviour management history and improving documentation in patient files.

Conclusion: Experiences such as this provide insights and practical strategies that can be applied in other aged inpatient units to reduce or eliminate rates of seclusion and restraints.
Speaking Out on Violence and Social Change: Transmedia Storytelling with Remotely Situated Women in Nepal and Canada
Authors: Alexander Emma , Regier Edith
Published: October 2011

In 2008–2009, Crossing Communities Art Project based in Winnipeg, MB extended its international transmedia project lookinginspeakingout.com  to Nepal, in partnership with the Women Foundation Nepal. In this essay we describe the relational creative process between women in our projects in Canada and Nepal, including our collectively directed videos and public forums. Participating women in both countries worked collaboratively with Canadian artists to portray their lives; they described personal histories of gendered violence, enforced widowhood, self-harm, and living with HIV-AIDS. The videos described in this essay including documentary footage of the project are available for screening on the website, www.lookinginspeakingout.com . While the lookinginspeakingout.com project and this essay contribute some new understandings to the emerging field of collective transmedia storytelling in particular with women in remote locations, we recognize that our exploration of participatory video, authorship, social change, and the impacts of relational art projects have raised more questions than answers.
Views and Reviews
Authors: Stephenson Jenn
Published: October 2011

Introduction to Views and Reviews, by Jenn Stephenson

Review of Clarke Mackey, Random Acts of Culture: Reclaiming Art and Community in the 21st Century, by Darren O'Donnell

Review of Julie Salverson, ed., Popular Political Theatre and Performance. Critical Perspectives on Canadian Theatre in English, Volume 17, by Tom Prentki

The Experience of Imaginary Ordinary, by Andrew Houston

In the Medieval Fashion: Community as Performance in The Midnapore Cycle, by Tamara Haddad

Devoted and Disgruntled: An Open Space Making a Scene Conference, by Monica Prendergast

Review of Drama and Desire: Artists and the Theatre, by Ashley Williamson
The effects of curing medium on the flexural strength and water permeability of cementitious composites containing Fe2O3 nanofillers
Authors: Nazari Ali , Riahi Shadi
Published: October 2011

In this study, the effect of limewater on the flexural strength and water permeability of concrete containing Fe2O3 nanoparticles has been investigated. Portland cement was partially replaced by Fe2O3 nanoparticles as nano-fillers with 0.5, 1.0, 1.5 and 2.0 wt.%. Curing of the specimens was carried out in water and saturated limewater for 7, 28 and 90 days. The results indicate that replacement of cement by Fe2O3 nanoparticles up to 2.0 wt.% produces concrete with improved flexural strength and water permeability when the specimens are cured in saturated limewater. The level of replacement for the specimens cured in water is 1.0 wt.%. Fe2O3 nanoparticles can improve the filler effect and the high reactivity of fine particles also substantially increases the quantity of strengthening gel.
Thermal expansion/contraction behavior of AA7050 alloy in the as-cast condition relevant to thermomechanical simulation of residual thermal stresses
Authors: Lalpoor Mehdi , Eskin Dmitry G. , Katgerman Laurens
Published: October 2011

As-cast 7xxx series aluminum alloys experience a severe loss in ductility upon cooling and become brittle below 300 °C. In order to simulate the thermal stresses arising during casting, a thorough understanding of the thermal contraction behavior during solidification and cooling is required. In this study, some thermal properties of the AA7050 alloy are determined experimentally in the “as-cast” condition. Solidification contraction tests were performed to determine the onset of thermal contraction in the grain refined alloy and dilatometry tests were conducted to estimate the coefficient of thermal expansion/contraction of the alloy. Our simulation results showed that although the temperature dependence of the coefficients of thermal expansion/contraction obtained from the tests differ from the predictions of thermodynamic data-base, these differences are not crucial to the results of the thermomechanical simulations.
Electrospray deposition of thin copper-indium-diselenide films
Authors: Choi Kyung-Hyun , Muhammad Nauman Malik , Dang Hyun-Woo , Lee Ayoung , Hwang Jin-Soo , Nam Jong Won , Ryu Beyoung-Hwan
Published: October 2011

Electrospray deposition is fast finding application in the field of thin film device manufacturing processes. The ease and cost efficiency attached to electrospray deposition with possible integration with roll-to-roll fabrication lines is the potential future of thin film device manufacturing. In this study thin films composed of copper-indium-diselenide, more commonly known as CIS, have been made using the electrospray deposition of nano-particle based inks for the ultimate manufacture of CIS-based solar cells. It is the first time that a complete CIS layer has been deposited through electrospray in a single step without involving any other process. Deposited layers are thoroughly characterized using techniques such as scanning electron microscope, X-ray diffraction and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Moderate voltage requirements, dense, large grained, ∼1 μm thick layers and reasonable sintering temperatures involved in the electrospray deposition process promise the possible applicability of electrospray deposition in the manufacturing of cheap and easy to build solar cells.
Morphology, fibrous composition and tensile properties of drag-silk produced by two species of orb spider
Authors: Jiang Ping , Lv Tai-Yong , Xiao Yong-Hong , Wu Meng-Ling , Liao Xin-Jun , Zhou Bing , Guo Cong
Published: October 2011

Silk fibers produced by the orb spiders Argiope amoena and Nephila clavata were examined using scanning electron microscopy. The fibers were produced on a horizontal surface by unanesthetized spiders. The fibers have different morphologies, physical structures, and fibrous compositions broadly consisting of one to four filaments and numerous fibrilliform filaments with varying diameters. The fibers are composed of a wide range of different silk fibrils (e. g. major and minor ampullate or other gland silk). We examined a range of silks produced by orb spiders. The spiders produce different silks for purposes such as web mooring, web radial threads, scaffolding anchoring silk of egg cases. In addition fiber deposited when moving towards prey enmeshed in the web, fiber deposited when returning to the web center, and fiber used to hang vertically downwards from a branch are all different. The studies indicate that these two species of orb spider can spin fibers of diverse complex structures constructed from fibrils from different glands that vary in number, diameter, morphology, and conformation depending on application. We interpret the variation in the silk produced by relating it to the required tensile properties, a biological cost–benefit principle, and the functional requirements for different natural environments and applications.
Microstructure evolution in hypereutectoid graphitic steel
Authors: Rounaghi Seyyed-Amin , Kiani-Rashid Ali-Reza
Published: October 2011

In spite of the excellent machinability and wear resistance of graphitic steels, they exhibit low hardness and mechanical properties due to the presence of a ferritic matrix, soft graphite phase and need for prolonged annealing time. So the matrix evolution of graphitic steel from ferritic to pearlitic, bainitic, martensitic and tempered martensite can overcome to this shortcoming. To achieve this purpose, reaustenitizing graphitic steel has been done at two temperatures (820 °C and 850 °C) and followed by different cooling rates. During this treatment, the ferritic matrix in graphitic steel was replaced by other phases such as pearlitic, bainitic etc. which also contain graphite particles. These transformed microstructures can improve the hardness and mechanical properties of graphitic steel.
Optimization of the Dilute Acid Hydrolyzator for Cellulose-to-Bioethanol Saccharification
Authors: Tsoutsos Theocharis , Bethanis Dimitris
Published: October 2011

The production of fermentable sugar solutions for bioethanol production is optimized. The process of acid hydrolysis using dilute H2SO4 was selected. Suitable lignocellulosics which are abundant in the Mediterranean (corn stover, hardwood and wheat straw) were investigated, and therefore their exploitation could be economically feasible. The process was studied in the two most common hydrolyzators (batch and continuous stirred) by developing a specific simulator for different raw materials. The simulation was applied in a wide range of temperatures (100–240 °C) and acid concentrations (0.5–3.0% w/w), in order to optimize the productivity of fermentable pentosans and hexosans. It was confirmed that the production of sugar-rich solutions required a two-stage process; in the first stage the degradation of sugars takes place, since pentoses are formulated under milder conditions than hexoses; in the second stage of simulation, a variety of samples with high sugar concentration and low degradation products are tested. The xylose productivity ranges between 85–95% under the most optimal conditions compared to the theoretical values, while large variations in glucose were frequent (10–55%) in comparison with the theoretical values. The best theoretical results were achieved for wheat straw hydrolysis in a batch reactor.
Low-Cost Mapping and Publishing Methods for Landscape Architectural Analysis and Design in Slum-Upgrading Projects
Authors: Paar Philip , Rekittke Jörg
Published: October 2011

The research project “Grassroots GIS” focuses on the development of low-cost mapping and publishing methods for slums and slum-upgrading projects in Manila. In this project smartphones, collaborative mapping and 3D visualization applications are systematically employed to support landscape architectural analysis and design work in the context of urban poverty and urban informal settlements. In this paper we focus on the description of the developed methods and present preliminary results of this work-in-progress.
The Lag Structure and the General Effect of Ozone Exposure on Pediatric Respiratory Morbidity
Authors: Fraga José , Botelho Anabela , Sá Aida , Costa Margarida , Quaresma Márcia
Published: October 2011

Up to now no study has investigated the lag structure of children’s respiratory morbidity due to surface ozone. In the present study, we investigate the lag structure and the general effect of surface ozone exposure on children and adolescents’ respiratory morbidity using data from a particularly well suited area in southern Europe to assess the health effects of surface ozone. The effects of surface ozone are estimated using the recently developed distributed lag non-linear models, allowing for a relatively long timescale, while controlling for weather effects, a range of other air pollutants, and long and short term patterns. The public health significance of the estimated effects is higher than has been previously reported in the literature, providing evidence contrary to the conjecture that the surface ozone-morbidity association is mainly due to short-term harvesting. In fact, our data analysis reveals that the effects of surface ozone at medium and long timescales (harvesting-resistant) are substantially larger than the effects at shorter timescales (harvesting-prone), a finding that is consistent with all children and adolescents being affected by high surface ozone concentrations, and not just the very frail.
Considering the Definition of Addiction
Authors: Sussman Steve , Sussman Alan N.
Published: October 2011

The definition of addiction is explored. Elements of addiction derived from a literature search that uncovered 52 studies include: (a) engagement in the behavior to achieve appetitive effects, (b) preoccupation with the behavior, (c) temporary satiation, (d) loss of control, and (e) suffering negative consequences. Differences from compulsions are suggested. While there is some debate on what is intended by the elements of addictive behavior, we conclude that these five constituents provide a reasonable understanding of what is intended by the concept. Conceptual challenges for future research are mentioned.
Comparative Molecular Field Analysis (CoMFA) and Comparative Molecular Similarity Indices Analysis (CoMSIA) Studies on α1A-Adrenergic Receptor Antagonists Based on Pharmacophore Molecular Alignment
Authors: Zhao Xin , Chen Minsheng , Huang Biyun , Ji Hong , Yuan Mu
Published: October 2011

The α1A-adrenergic receptor (α1A-AR) antagonist is useful in treating benign prostatic hyperplasia, lower urinary tract symptoms, and cardiac arrhythmia. Three-dimensional quantitative structure-activity relationship (3D-QSAR) studies were performed on a set of α1A-AR antagonists of N-aryl and N-nitrogen class. Statistically significant models constructed from comparative molecular field analysis (CoMFA) and comparative molecular similarity indices analysis (CoMSIA) were established based on a training set of 32 ligands using pharmacophore-based molecular alignment. The leave-one-out cross-validation correlation coefficients were q2CoMFA = 0.840 and q2CoMSIA = 0.840. The high correlation between the cross-validated/predicted and experimental activities of a test set of 12 ligands revealed that the CoMFA and CoMSIA models were robust (r2pred/CoMFA = 0.694; r2pred/CoMSIA = 0.671). The generated models suggested that electrostatic, hydrophobic, and hydrogen bonding interactions play important roles between ligands and receptors in the active site. Our study serves as a guide for further experimental investigations on the synthesis of new compounds. Structural modifications based on the present 3D-QSAR results may lead to the discovery of other α1A-AR antagonists.
The Chemical Synthesis of Tetrodoxin: An Ongoing Quest
Authors: Chau Jaclyn , Ciufolini Marco A.
Published: October 2011

This contribution reviews all the synthetic work on tetrodotoxin that has appeared in the literature through June 2011.
Studies on the Synthesis of DMAP Derivatives by Diastereoselective Ugi Reactions
Authors: Mandai Hiroki , Irie Shunsuke , Mitsudo Koichi , Suga Seiji
Published: October 2011

Diastereoselective Ugi reactions of DMAP-based aldehydes with α-amino acids and tert-butyl isocyanide were examined. The reactions of 4-(dimethylamino)-2-pyridine-carboxaldehyde with various α-amino acids afforded 2-substituted DMAP derivatives with low diastereoselectivity. On the contrary, reactions with 4-(dimethylamino)-3-pyridine-carboxaldehyde delivered 3-substituted DMAP derivatives with moderate to high diastereoselectivity. The combination of α-amino acid and DMAP-based aldehyde is thus important to achieve high diastereoselectivity. Kinetic resolution of a secondary alcohol using a chiral DMAP derivative obtained through these reactions was also examined.
Energy Return on Energy Invested for Tight Gas Wells in the Appalachian Basin, United States of America
Authors: Sell Bryan , Murphy David , Hall Charles A.S.
Published: October 2011

The energy cost of drilling a natural gas well has never been publicly addressed in terms of the actual fuels and energy required to generate the physical materials consumed in construction. Part of the reason for this is that drilling practices are typically regarded as proprietary; hence the required information is difficult to obtain. We propose that conventional tight gas wells that have marginal production characteristics provide a baseline for energy return on energy invested (EROI) analyses. To develop an understanding of baseline energy requirements for natural gas extraction, we examined production from a mature shallow gas field composed of vertical wells in Pennsylvania and materials used in the drilling and completion of individual wells. The data were derived from state maintained databases and reports, personal experience as a production geologist, personal interviews with industry representatives, and literature sources. We examined only the “upstream” energy cost of providing gas and provide a minimal estimate of energy cost because of uncertainty about some inputs. Of the materials examined, steel and diesel fuel accounted for more than two-thirds of the energy cost for well construction. Average energy cost per foot for a tight gas well in Indiana County is 0.59 GJ per foot. Available production data for this natural gas play was used to calculate energy return on energy invested ratios (EROI) between 67:1 and 120:1, which depends mostly on the amount of materials consumed, drilling time, and highly variable production. Accounting for such inputs as chemicals used in well treatment, materials used to construct drill bits and drill pipe, post-gathering pipeline construction, and well completion maintenance would decrease EROI by an unknown amount. This study provides energy constraints at the single-well scale for the energy requirements for drilling in geologically simple systems. The energy and monetary costs of wells from Indiana County, Pennsylvania are useful for constructing an EROI model of United States natural gas production, which suggests a peak in the EROI of gas production, has already occurred twice in the past century.
Mucosal Injuries due to Ribosome-Inactivating Stress and the Compensatory Responses of the Intestinal Epithelial Barrier
Authors: Moon Yuseok
Published: October 2011

Ribosome-inactivating (ribotoxic) xenobiotics are capable of using cleavage and modification to damage 28S ribosomal RNA, which leads to translational arrest. The blockage of global protein synthesis predisposes rapidly dividing tissues, including gut epithelia, to damage from various pathogenic processes, including epithelial inflammation and carcinogenesis. In particular, mucosal exposure to ribotoxic stress triggers integrated processes that are important for barrier regulation and re-constitution to maintain gut homeostasis. In the present study, various experimental models of the mucosal barrier were evaluated for their response to acute and chronic exposure to ribotoxic agents. Specifically, this review focuses on the regulation of epithelial junctions, epithelial transporting systems, epithelial cytotoxicity, and compensatory responses to mucosal insults. The primary aim is to characterize the mechanisms associated with the intestinal epithelial responses induced by ribotoxic stress and to discuss the implications of ribotoxic stressors as chemical modulators of mucosa-associated diseases such as ulcerative colitis and epithelial cancers.
La fécondité en France et au Québec : des histoires contrastées
Authors: Prioux France , Girard Chantal
Published: October 2011

La fécondité de la France et celle du Québec ont connu des évolutions fort différentes depuis le XIXe siècle : diminution précoce et graduelle dans le premier cas, tardive et rapide dans le second. Depuis le milieu des années 1960, la fécondité est plus élevée en France qu’au Québec, alors que l’inverse a longtemps prévalu. La descendance finale des générations n’est jamais tombée en dessous de deux enfants par femme en France, tandis que c’est le cas au Québec pour toutes les générations nées depuis le milieu des années 1940. Longtemps plus fréquentes au Québec, les familles de trois enfants ou plus sont maintenant plus répandues en France. Le Québec se distingue par une plus grande part de femmes sans enfant. Dans les deux sociétés, l’âge moyen à la maternité augmente depuis le milieu des années 1970, essentiellement parce que la première maternité est retardée. Ce mouvement a été plus rapide en France, mais le Québec effectue un rattrapage depuis le début de ce siècle. Quant à la proportion des naissances hors mariage, peu élevée jusque dans les années 1970, elle a crû rapidement dans les deux sociétés, plus rapidement au Québec qu’en France.
L’accès à l’assistance médicale à la procréation en France : reflet de la norme sociale procréative ?
Authors: Rozée Gomez Virginie , La Rochebrochard Élise de
Published: October 2011

Assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) have developed considerably over recent decades and account for approximately 2 per cent of births in Europe today. They have, however, been developed under highly heterogeneous legislative frameworks, with France being distinguished by restrictive access to ARTs. A comparison of this specific French framework with the legislative frameworks in other countries highlights the fact that French social reproduction norms are based primarily on heterosexual couples. To avoid restrictive ART regulation, French associations have set up networks of transborder access to ARTs involving different populations : single women or men, same-sex couples, but also heterosexual couples not covered by the French legislation because they are over 42 years old or want to use a surrogate mother. Moreover, the organization of anonymous and free sperm or eggs donation also entails travelling abroad, in particular for eggs donation for which there is a severe shortage. The use of transborder ART raises new issues, in particular that of a potential marketization of the body among the disadvantaged populations in Europe.
Generations and Gender Programme : présentation et perspectives
Authors: Régnier-Loilier Arnaud , Légaré Jacques
Published: October 2011

The Generations and Gender Programme (GGP) was launched in 2000 by the Population Activities Unit of the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE). Centred on family-building and relationships between generations and between genders, the project involves two main components : establishing a three-wave longitudinal survey of approximately 10 000 women and men aged 18 to 79 (Generations and Gender Surveys - GGS) and collecting contextual data in each of the participating countries. This article provides details about this project, reports on its progress and suggests a few potential analytical perspectives.
Politique familiale, politiques sociales et fécondité en Suède
Authors: Le Bouteillec Nathalie
Published: October 2011

This article examines the importance of fertility in the history of family policy in Sweden. As Sweden experienced the effects of the second stage of the demographic transition in the late 19th century, the demographic variables gradually became issues to consider, then arguments for state intervention. The best illustration of these debates was the establishment of a voluntaristic family policy in the 1930s. However, this family policy gradually changed and, in the early 1970s, adopted the characteristics of a social policy involving family support. This shift in forms of state intervention can be explained by the explicit political will not to encourage one particular concept of the family but rather to respect the plurality of types of families, nevertheless making two-income families a norm to strive for. Thus, measures promoting linkage between family life and work life are the most interventionist within the family. However, it is plausible to wonder whether the axiological neutrality of the state vis-à-vis forms of private life means a lack of interest in fertility policies.
Molecular phylogeny of Gymnocalycium (Cactaceae): Assessment of alternative infrageneric systems, a new subgenus, and trends in the evolution of the genus
Authors: Demaio Pablo H. , Barfuss Michael H. J. , Kiesling Roberto , Till Walter , Chiapella Jorge O.
Published: October 2011

• Premise of the study: The South American genus Gymnocalycium (Cactoideae‐Trichocereae) demonstrates how the sole use of morphological data in Cactaceae results in conflicts in assessing phylogeny, constructing a taxonomic system, and analyzing trends in the evolution of the genus.

• Methods: Molecular phylogenetic analysis was performed using parsimony and Bayesian methods on a 6195‐bp data matrix of plastid DNA sequences (atpI‐atpH, petL‐psbE, trnK‐matK, trnT‐trnL‐trnF) of 78 samples, including 52 species and infraspecific taxa representing all the subgenera of Gymnocalycium. We assessed morphological character evolution using likelihood methods to optimize characters on a Bayesian tree and to reconstruct possible ancestral states.

• Key results: The results of the phylogenetic study confirm the monophyly of the genus, while supporting overall the available infrageneric classification based on seed morphology. Analysis showed the subgenera Microsemineum and Macrosemineum to be polyphyletic and paraphyletic. Analysis of morphological characters showed a tendency toward reduction of stem size, reduction in quantity and hardiness of spines, increment of seed size, development of napiform roots, and change from juicy and colorful fruits to dry and green fruits.

• Conclusions: Gymnocalycium saglionis is the only species of Microsemineum and a new name is required to identify the clade including the remaining species of Microsemineum; we propose the name Scabrosemineum in agreement with seed morphology. Identifying morphological trends and environmental features allows for a better understanding of the events that might have influenced the diversification of the genus.
Multistep flow synthesis of vinyl azides and their use in the copper-catalyzed Huisgen-type cycloaddition under inductive-heating conditions
Authors: Kupracz Lukas , Hartwig Jan , Wegner Jens , Ceylan Sascha , Kirschning Andreas
Published: October 2011

The multistep flow synthesis of vinyl azides and their application in the synthesis of vinyltriazoles is reported. The synthesis relies on a stable polymer-bound equivalent of iodine azide that serves to carry out 1,2-functionalization of alkenes in a telescope flow protocol. The intermediate 2-iodo azides are subjected to a DBU-mediated polymer-supported elimination step yielding vinyl azides in good yield. The third step involves the formation of vinyl triazoles by a copper-catalyzed Huisgen-"click" cycloaddition. The required heat is generated by electromagnetic induction based on copper. Copper serves both as heatable as well as catalytically active packed-bed material inside the flow reactor.
Humanware Issues in a Government Management Information Systems Implementation
Authors: Lippert Susan K.
Published: October 2011

A United States Government Defense Agency charged with the acquisition and procurement of weapons systems required a comprehensive Management Information System (MIS). The Integrated Product and Process Management Information System (IPPMIS) was expected to integrate standard procurement functions through a hardware and software application. A defense contractor was hired to design, develop, build, test and deploy an integrated acquisition project MIS, including career development and the management of personnel for program managers. The information system was designed and implemented without due consideration or management of the human side of systems development. The lack of human factors generated cost overruns, time delays and ultimately a partial failure of the system. This case addresses the behavioral, managerial and organizational shortcomings of the MIS process, which ultimately led to a less than effective implementation.
Modeling Back Office Operations at Greenfield Online's Digital Consumer Store
Authors: Campbell Gerald C. , Huntley Christopher L. , Anderson Michael R.
Published: October 2011

Greenfield Online, the first online market research company, is an example of an e-business that has continued to be successful despite recent retrenchments in the Internet sector. Their core business involves developing and implementing customized market research studies. At the time of this case, they also sold off-the-shelf reports related to online shopping trends for specific groups of products. This case describes operations at Greenfield Onlines Digital Consumer Store using three modeling techniquesprocess mapping, data flow diagramming, and entity-relationship diagramming. The simultaneous use of these techniques illustrates how they relate to each other, and demonstrates their applicability within an e-business environment. After the descriptive models set the stage, the economics of manually-performed back office processes are evaluated through a present value analysis of labor costs. The organization is left with open questions regarding how to improve the Digital Consumer Stores back office operations.