bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Wolves modulate soil nutrient heterogeneity and foliar nitrogen by configuring the distribution of ungulate carcasses
Authors: Bump Joseph K. , Peterson Rolf O. , Vucetich John A.
Published: November 2009

Mechanistic links between top terrestrial predators and biogeochemical processes remain poorly understood. Here we demonstrate that large carnivores configure landscape heterogeneity through prey carcass distribution. A 50‐year record composed of >3600 moose carcasses from Isle Royale National Park, Michigan, USA, showed that wolves modulate heterogeneity in soil nutrients, soil microbes, and plant quality by clustering prey carcasses over space. Despite being well utilized by predators, moose carcasses resulted in elevated soil macronutrients and microbial biomass, shifts in soil microbial composition, and elevated leaf nitrogen for at least 2–3 years at kill sites. Wolf‐killed moose were deposited in some regions of the study landscape at up to 12× the rate of deposition in other regions. Carcass density also varied temporally, changing as much as 19‐fold in some locations during the 50‐year study period. This variation arises, in part, directly from variation in wolf hunting behavior. This study identifies a top terrestrial predator as a mechanism generating landscape heterogeneity, demonstrating reciprocal links between large carnivore behavior and ecosystem function.
Tamarisk biocontrol in the western United States: ecological and societal implications
Authors: Hultine Kevin R , Belnap Jayne , van Riper Charles , Ehleringer James R , Dennison Philip E , Lee Martha E , Nagler Pamela L , Snyder Keirith A , Uselman Shauna M , West Jason B
Published: November 2009

Tamarisk species (genus Tamarix), also commonly known as saltcedar, are among the most successful plant invaders in the western United States. At the same time, tamarisk has been cited as having enormous economic costs. Accordingly, local, state, and federal agencies have undertaken considerable efforts to eradicate this invasive plant and restore riparian habitats to pre‐invasion status. Traditional eradication methods, including herbicide treatments, are now considered undesirable, because they are costly and often have unintended negative impacts on native species. A new biological control agent, the saltcedar leaf beetle (Diorhabda elongata), has been released along many watersheds in the western US, to reduce the extent of tamarisk cover in riparian areas. However, the use of this insect as a biological control agent may have unintended ecological, hydrological, and socioeconomic consequences that need to be anticipated by land managers and stakeholders undertaking restoration efforts. Here, we examine the possible ramifications of tamarisk control and offer recommendations to reduce potential negative impacts on valued riparian systems in the western US.
``War or Peace"?: A Critical examination in International Political Economy
Authors: Perrin Pierre
Published: November 2009

Le problème du conflit dans les relations interétatiques a donné lieu à un débat important en Economie Politique Internationale. Lécole néolibérale, sappuyant sur la théorie des gains absolus, a pris position pour la prééminence de la coopération entre les Etats, alors que les théoriciens néoréalistes, se fondant sur le concept de gain relatif, ont prédit une tendance au conflit (sans que celui-ci se limite à la guerre). Une analyse critique de ces théories à partir des concepts fondamentaux de lécole autrichienne (incertitude, subjectivisme, vigilance de lentrepreneur) permet de montrer que les théories néolibérales et néoréalistes sont trop optimistes quant à la qualité de leur prédiction. Cet article conteste en particulier le fort degré de généralité que les théories des deux écoles prétendent atteindre. Il faut donc soit redéfinir la notion de généralité, soit admettre une large indétermination dans la tendance des relations interétatiques, soit prendre un autre chemin théorique pour résoudre la problématique.Conflict in the inter-state relations gave rise to an important discussion in International Political Economy. The so-called neo-liberal school, leaning on the theory of absolute earnings, supported the thesis of cooperation between the States, while neo-realists theory is based on the concept of relative earnings and push forward the trend of conflict (though not necessarily war). A critical examination of these theories using the fundamental concepts of the Austrian School (uncertainty, subjectivism, entrepreneurs alertness) is able to show that the neo- liberal and the neo-realist theories are too much optimistic with regard to their predictive nature. The latter do not achieve the generality they pretend to have. The trend of the interstates relations should be admitedly indeterminate unless an alternative theoretical way is taken to solve the issue.
Natural Order Reason and Catallactic: The Approach of F. Bastiat
Authors: Solal Philippe , Zouache Abdallah
Published: November 2009

Lobjet de cet article est déclairer les rapports quentretiennent le droit naturel et léconomie dans la pensée de F. Bastiat. On montre que le statut de la raison humaine occupe une place centrale dans cette articulation. On met également en évidence les tensions entre le mécanisme de répartition des droits de propriété soumis à une procédure de concurrence et le respect de la loi naturelle. A cet égard, F. Bastiat définit la liberté comme la capacité à utiliser la raison.The aim of this paper is to throw a new light on the close relations between natural rights and economics in F. Bastiats thought. We show that the human reason status holds a central place in this articulation. We also underscore the problematic compatibility between the natural rights allocation mechanism based on a competition process and the natural law. We explain how F. Bastiat comes to grips with this tension. He proposes to define the notion of liberty as the faculty of using human reason.
No Rationale for a Redefinition of the Mole
Authors: Andres Hanspeter , Haerri Hans-Peter , Niederhauser Bernhard , Wunderli Samuel , Feller Ulrich
Published: November 2009

In the wake of the redefinition of the kilogram, the last unit of the International System of Units (SI) that is still based on a man-made artefact, discussions were launched on the necessity of redefining other units, amongst other the unit mole. Since 1971 the mole is defined as the
amount of substance of a system that contains as many elementary entities as there are atoms in 0.012 kilogram of carbon 12. The symbol of the unit is 'mol'. When the mole is used, the elementary entities must be specified and may be atoms, molecules, ions, electrons, other particles, or specified
groups of such particles. The definition is based on the pre-existing choice to set the relative atomic mass of carbon 12 equal to 12 exactly. In the proposed new definition the mole is the amount of substance containing exactly 6.022 141 79 × 1023 atoms or molecules, ions,
electrons, other particles, or specified groups of such particles, i.e. the Avogardo constant would have a fixed value without an uncertainty. This contribution critically examines the submitted arguments to justify the proposed redefinition of the unit mole by 2011 for their persuasive
power to change a scientific and cultural good such as a unit of measurement. As shown, there are no convincing scientific arguments for a redefinition of the mole that stand a closer examination. The current definition is well understood, established in science and technology for almost 50
years and is still up to date.
The Role of Reference Materials in Chemical Metrology
Authors: Linsinger Thomas P. J. , Emons Hendrik
Published: November 2009

Reference materials play an important role in chemical metrology. Besides ensuring traceability of measurement results, they contribute to the uncertainty budget of measurement results. This paper discusses the main uses of reference materials (certified or not) and describes their
impact on establishing traceability and uncertainty budgets.
Building-up a Double Accredited CRM Production Laboratory in an Industrial Environment: A Description
Authors: Wüthrich Jürg , Weber Michael
Published: November 2009

Over the last three years Sigma-Aldrich has built-up a competence centre for CRM (Certified Reference Material) production in Buchs, Switzerland. The new facility is accredited following both ISO/IEC 17025 and ISO Guide 34. The commercial availability of a broad range of different CRMs
is of highest importance with respect to the realisation of metrological concepts in practice. This article describes the process of the production and certification of inorganic CRMs of highest quality. This comprises the comprehensive characterisation of the starting materials, the high
precision weighing of the compounds, homogenisation and special packaging of these new CRMs.
Development of SI Traceable Standards for Element Determination
Authors: Kipphardt Heinrich , Matschat Ralf , Panne Ulrich
Published: November 2009

In Germany a system of primary amount of substance standards for elemental analysis is being developed, which forms the material's basis for the National Standards for element determination. The metrological concept and technical approach is briefly described. The objective of traceability
in chemistry, in this case for elemental determination, is illustrated on the example of copper.
Metrology in Chemistry for pH and Electrolytic Conductivity Traceability Dissemination
Authors: Breuel Ulrich , Werner Barbara , Jehnert Diana
Published: November 2009

pH and electrolytic conductivity are important metrological quantities for several areas of industry. To get reliable results it is necessary to calibrate measuring instruments and devices regularly. For this purpose certified reference solutions are needed. DKD-K-06901 is a manufacturer
of certified reference solutions and offers calibration services in the field of analytical chemistry. There are three accredited calibration procedures for the determination of pH used by ZKM - ANALYTIK - GmbH. A new calibration procedure for electrolytic conductivity was established by experts
in DKD-K-06901 as the result of a development project in cooperation with National Metrology Institutes. The validation of all procedures is guaranteed by the participation in national and international comparison measurements. Furthermore DKD-K-06901 is actively involved in the work of technical
and standardisation committees for developments of analytical quantities.
Metrology in Gas Analysis at the Federal Office of Metrology METAS
Authors: Niederhauser Bernhard
Published: November 2009

Gas analysis as a metrological discipline has a history of about 25 years in Switzerland. Starting with the requirement of reliable reference gas mixtures for legal applications the Swiss Federal Office of Metrology (METAS) had to increasingly find also calibration solutions for the
ambient air level. Thereby the metrological principles of traceability, uncertainty evaluation and verification as well as the use of unambiguous terminology for quantities and units were in the focus of the activities. Using three examples different ways of implementing these principles are
explained. For the emission range, traceability is mainly achieved by gravimetrically prepared certified gas mixtures in pressurised cylinders using high purity gases and a highly reproducible comparison method. The reactivity and limited stability of the important analytes in the ambient
range ask for dynamic methods to secure traceability to the international system of units (SI). The dynamic methods requiring additionally high accuracy gas flow measurement techniques and trace gas analysis will be the focus for further developments at METAS.
Measurement of Particles in Aerosols – Challenge and Solutions
Authors: Schlatter Jürg
Published: November 2009

Ambient air is a mixture of gases, droplets and solid particles and therefore a typical aerosol. Natural and anthropogenic processes govern the actual composition of the air. In some cases the generated components are toxic and should be avoided. The key issue of the identification,
reduction, and limitation of a component is the measurement. Unfortunately an aerosol cannot be stored in containers and is not available as a reference material. Therefore the calibration of measuring instruments is fundamental to obtain reliable results. Because various measuring principles
are used for many applications such as cleanrooms, engine emissions, ambient air etc., the calibration procedures must be adopted. Metrological institutes such as METAS have recognised the need for reliable reference values and have initiated calibration services and international collaboration.
Therefore international harmonised reference values for particle number concentration and particle size are available.
Development of Suitable ISE Measurement Procedures for SI-Traceable Chemical Activity Determination
Authors: Berdat Daniel , Andres Hanspeter , Wunderli Samuel
Published: November 2009

In clinical chemistry and medical diagnostics, the reliability of the results obtained by numerous testing protocols has a major impact on the critical decision-making processes. Considerable efforts are made by international institutes to promote and give guidance on measurement comparisons
and metrological traceability using appropriate certified reference materials. The concentration values or amount of substance contents are usually assigned to chemical analytical results. In contrast, the most relevant quantity is the activity of ions in clinical chemistry. Activity corresponds
to the available biologically active part of these components in a mixture. Many measurement methods and instruments currently in use do not differentiate between the total substance concentration and its biologically active component. In physiological solutions, such as blood plasma, the
chemical activity makes a clear difference between ion or substrate concentration. Ion selective electrodes (ISE) are widely used to directly measure the activity of ions. Measurement by means of ion-selective electrodes is a standard method in point of care testing units (POCT) for continuous
monitoring for e.g. haemodialysis, cardiac surgery and in intensive care units. A metrological approach to ISE potentiometric measurements is proposed, to determine the activity with their uncertainty. A prerequisite is to develop an activity calibration scale for complex electrolyte
solutions with known and traceable ion activities.
Standing surgical removal of a progressive ethmoidal haematoma invading the sphenopalatine sinuses in a horse
Authors: Smith L J. , Perkins J.
Published: November 2009

Progressive ethmoidal haematomas (PEH) have been described as encapsulated, gradually expanding masses, which typically develop from the ethmoidal turbinates. Plain skull radiographs have been shown to be useful in determining the extent of the soft tissue mass if it invades the paranasal sinuses; however, where it is available, computed tomography (CT) offers substantial advantages in the evaluation of the full extent of a PEH. This Case Report describes a PEH invading into the sphenopalatine sinus, and the use of CT in accurately identifying the extent of the lesion.
Calcinosis circumscripta in the antebrachiocarpal joint of a horse
Authors: Tóth F. , Schumacher J. , Newman S.
Published: November 2009

A 4‐year‐old, Spanish Mustang mare was evaluated because of a swelling on the dorsolateral aspect of its right carpus. The horse had no gait abnormalities. During radiographic examination of the carpus, a granular, radiopaque mass, approximately 3 cm in diameter, adjacent to the proximal row of carpal bones, was observed. The mineralised mass, which was located within the antebrachiocarpal joint, was removed through an arthrotomy with the horse anaesthetised. Histological features of the mass showed it to be overlain by partially denuded synovium, and included large deposits of mineral surrounded by multinucleated giant cells and separated by septa of mature fibrous connective tissue. These features were typical of calcinosis circumscripta. Swelling of the carpus resolved after the surgery, but the horse was lost to follow‐up.
Antimicrobial associated diarrhoea in the horse. Part 1: Overview, pathogenesis and risk factors
Authors: McGorum B. C. , Pirie R. S.
Published: November 2009

Antimicrobial associated diarrhoea (AAD) is the most commonly recognised adverse effect of antimicrobial treatment in horses, although its incidence is probably low given the frequency of antimicrobial administration. Clinical signs vary from transient self‐limiting diarrhoea to rapidly fatal toxic enterocolitis. AAD prolongs the duration of hospitalisation, increases diagnostic and therapeutic costs, and was associated with a lower case survival rate than other types of acute diarrhoea in one study. Virtually all antimicrobials have been implicated in AAD, but some pose a greater risk than others.
Diagnosis and surgical treatment of epidural neoplasms in two ataxic horses
Authors: Hirsch J. E. , Grant B. D. , Linovitz R. , Peppers T. A. , Rantanen N. W.
Published: November 2009

Two cases of ataxia caused by epidural neoplasia diagnosed with myelography and histopathology are presented in this report. One horse was diagnosed with lymphohistiocytic lymphosarcoma and the other with haemangiosarcoma. In both cases, subtotal dorsal decompression was performed as part of their treatment protocol. One horse was subjected to euthanasia immediately after surgery; however, the other horse recovered well, with no gait abnormalities and a normal myelographic dye column seen at 6 months post surgery. Although both horses were ultimately subjected to euthanasia, subtotal dorsal decompression provides a potential surgical treatment for epidural neoplasia.
Transpalpebral enucleation using a chain écraseur
Authors: García‐López J. M. , Poulin A. E. , Doran R. E. , Quinteros D. D. , Abuja G. A.
Published: November 2009

This study was undertaken to describe the technique, complications and outcome of the use of a chain écraseur for transpalpebral enucleation in horses under general anaesthesia. We report its use in 53 horses, reviewing the subject details, reasons for enucleation, surgical technique, intra‐ and post operative complications, and long‐term outcome.

Intraoperative complications included mild to moderate bleeding in 4 horses. Post operative complications included mild periorbital post operative swelling in one horse, transient head tilt in one horse and severe enterocolitis, which resulted in euthanasia in one horse; another 2 horses were subjected to euthanasia after long bone fractures that occurred during recovery from general anaesthesia and 2 horses had the prosthesis removed as a result of inflammatory reaction or infection.

Long‐term outcome was available for 38 horses, 25 of which returned to their previous activities and 13 were retired. Twelve horses were lost for follow‐up.

Transpalpebral enucleation using a chain écraseur is a feasible alternative to traditional enucleation techniques that can provide adequate haemostasis during transection of the optic pedicle when used properly.
Ecosystem Services and Sacred Natural Sites: Reconciling Material and Non-material Values in Nature Conservation
Authors: Bhagwat Shonil A.
Published: November 2009

Ecosystems services are provisions that humans derive from nature. Ecologists trying to value ecosystems have proposed five categories of these services: preserving, supporting, provisioning, regulating and cultural. While this ecosystem services framework attributes ‘material’ value to nature, sacred natural sites are areas of ‘non-material’ spiritual significance to people. Can we reconcile the material and non-material values? Ancient classical traditions recognise five elements of nature: earth, water, air, fire and ether. This commentary demonstrates that the perceived properties of these elements correspond with the ecosystem services framework. Whilst the two can be reconciled, the ‘elements of nature’ framework is argued to be more suitable to make a case for conservation of sacred natural sites because it can be attractive to traditional societies whilst being acceptable to Western science.
Visions of Nature in Eastern Europe: A Polish Example
Authors: Hunka Agnieszka D. , Groot Wouter T. De , Biela Adam
Published: November 2009

Visions of nature are defined as public views on what nature is, what values are carried by nature and what is the appropriate relationship between humans and nature. They were studied in Lubelski region, Poland. With respect to the first, respondents expressed that human influence and naturalness do not exclude each other. One result of the values survey was that respondents acknowledged nature's intrinsic value. The study into the relationship between humans and nature showed that the respondents adhered strongly to a steward type of relationship, and that more ecocentric images were adhered to for a lesser, but substantial degree.
Darwin and Wallace as Environmental Philosophers
Authors: Benton Ted
Published: November 2009

The thoughts of Darwin and Wallace on human evolution and the relations between humans and the rest of nature are compared. Despite significant differences, it is suggested both great evolutionists have much to offer in addressing our current socio-ecological predicament.
Agrarian Change, Cattle Ranching and Deforestation: Assessing their Linkages in Southern Pará
Authors: Pacheco Pablo
Published: November 2009

In this paper, I illustrate the dynamics of frontier development in the Redenção area in southern Pará, one of the oldest agricultural frontiers in the Brazilian Amazon. This frontier has evolved from a landscape initially dominated by large-scale corporations investing in cattle ranching, to another in which medium-scale cattle ranchers and to less extent smallholders expanded their influence in the local economy. The initial stage was driven by fiscal incentives and subsidies from the government. The latter stage features more developed markets for beef and milk products, and is associated with an expansion of slaughterhouses and dairy processing plants, the modernisation of livestock production, fragmentation of large estates, and competition for land. The latter phase originated with the arrival of new investors in medium-scale cattle ranching, and with expanding pressure from smallholders and landless people looking for land. The process of land occupation and agrarian development has inevitably led to forest conversion mainly to pasture. Finally, environmental policies seeking to halt deforestation have been largely ineffective under these conditions of frontier development.
The Languages of Neurons: An Analysis of Coding Mechanisms by Which Neurons Communicate, Learn and Store Information
Authors: Baslow Morris  H.
Published: November 2009

In this paper evidence is provided that individual neurons possess language, and that the basic unit for communication consists of two neurons and their entire field of interacting dendritic and synaptic connections. While information processing in the brain is highly complex, each neuron uses a simple mechanism for transmitting information. This is in the form of temporal electrophysiological action potentials or spikes (S) operating on a millisecond timescale that, along with pauses (P) between spikes constitute a two letter “alphabet” that generates meaningful frequency-encoded signals or neuronal S/P “words” in a primary language. However, when a word from an afferent neuron enters the dendritic-synaptic-dendritic field between two neurons, it is translated into a new frequency-encoded word with the same meaning, but in a different spike-pause language, that is delivered to and understood by the efferent neuron. It is suggested that this unidirectional inter-neuronal language-based word translation step is of utmost importance to brain function in that it allows for variations in meaning to occur. Thus, structural or biochemical changes in dendrites or synapses can produce novel words in the second language that have changed meanings, allowing for a specific signaling experience, either external or internal, to modify the meaning of an original word (learning), and store the learned information of that experience (memory) in the form of an altered dendritic-synaptic-dendritic field.
Is There a Link between Wheezing in Early Childhood and Adverse Birth Outcomes? A Systematic Review
Authors: Patelarou Evridiki , Chochlidaki Maria , Vivilaki Victoria , Brokalaki Hero
Published: November 2009

We aimed to provide a summary of the existing published knowledge on the association between adverse birth outcomes and the development of wheezing during the first two years of life. We carried out a systematic review of epidemiological studies within the MEDLINE database. Epidemiological studies on human subjects, published in English, were included in the review. A comprehensive literature search yielded 72 studies for further consideration. Following the application of the eligibility criteria we identified nine studies. A positive association and an excess risk of wheezing during the first two years of life were revealed for adverse birth outcomes.
Editor’s Note – Received Date Error, Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2009, 6, 2387-2396
Authors: You Gardenia
Published: November 2009

Editor’s Note added on 3 November 2009: The received date was wrong in Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2009, 6, 2387-2396. [...]
The Cladistic Basis for the Phylogenetic Diversity (PD) Measure Links Evolutionary Features to Environmental Gradients and Supports Broad Applications of Microbial Ecology’s “Phylogenetic Beta Diversity” Framework
Authors: Faith Daniel  P. , Lozupone Catherine  A. , Nipperess David , Knight Rob
Published: November 2009

The PD measure of phylogenetic diversity interprets branch lengths cladistically to make inferences about feature diversity. PD calculations extend conventional specieslevel ecological indices to the features level. The “phylogenetic beta diversity” framework developed by microbial ecologists calculates PD-dissimilarities between community localities. Interpretation of these PD-dissimilarities at the feature level explains the framework’s success in producing ordinations revealing environmental gradients. An example gradients space using PD-dissimilarities illustrates how evolutionary features form unimodal response patterns to gradients. This features model supports new application of existing species-level methods that are robust to unimodal responses, plus novel applications relating to climate change, commercial products discovery, and community assembly.
Antinociceptive and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Ethanolic Extracts of Glycine max (L.) Merr and Rhynchosia nulubilis Seeds
Authors: Yim Joo Hyuk , Lee Ok-Hwan , Choi Ung-Kyu , Kim Young-Chan
Published: November 2009

The aim of this study was to assess the in vivo potential of ethanolic extracts of Glycine max (L.) Merr. (SoRiTae) and Rhynchosia nulubilis (Yak-Kong) seeds as natural anti-nociceptive and anti-inflammatory agents. To assess the anti-nociceptive and antiinflammatory potential, the ethanolic extracts of SoRiTae and Yak-Kong seeds were tested in arachidonic acid-induced ear edema, carrageenan induced paw edema, formalin-induced licking time, acetic acid induced writhing and hot plate-induced thermal stimulation in mice. The administration of ethanolic extracts of SoRiTae and Yak-Kong seeds evoked a significant effect of anti-nociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities as compared to standards aminopyrine and indomethacin. The ear edema, paw edema, paw licking time, pain and writhes in mice were significantly reduced (p < 0.05) as compared to the control. The results obtained in this study indicate that both SoRiTae and Yak-Kong soybeans possesses potential anti-nociceptive and anti-inflammatory activities.
Time-Resolved Soft X-ray Diffraction Reveals Transient Structural Distortions of Ternary Liquid Crystals
Authors: Quevedo Wilson , Peth Christian , Busse Gerhard , Scholz Mirko , Mann Klaus , Techert Simone
Published: November 2009

Home-based soft X-ray time-resolved scattering experiments with nanosecond time resolution (10 ns) and nanometer spatial resolution were carried out at a table top soft X-ray plasma source (2.2–5.2 nm). The investigated system was the lyotropic liquid crystal C16E7/paraffin/glycerol/formamide/IR 5. Usually, major changes in physical, chemical, and/or optical properties of the sample occur as a result of structural changes and shrinking morphology. Here, these effects occur as a consequence of the energy absorption in the sample upon optical laser excitation in the IR regime. The liquid crystal shows changes in the structural response within few hundred nanoseconds showing a time decay of 182 ns. A decrease of the Bragg peak diffracted intensity of 30% and a coherent macroscopic movement of the Bragg reflection are found as a response to the optical pump. The Bragg reflection movement is established to be isotropic and diffusion controlled (1 μs). Structural processes are analyzed in the Patterson analysis framework of the time-varying diffraction peaks revealing that the inter-lamellar distance increases by 2.7 Å resulting in an elongation of the coherently expanding lamella crystallite. The present studies emphasize the possibility of applying TR-SXRD techniques for studying the mechanical dynamics of nanosystems.
Synthesis, Characterization and Texture Observations of Calamitic Liquid Crystalline Compounds
Authors: Qaddoura Maher  A. , Belfield Kevin  D.
Published: November 2009

Several divinylic mesogenic monomers were synthesized based on coupling the monomer 4-(4-pentenyloxy)benzoic acid with chlorohydroquinone, 2,5-dihydroxyacetophenone, methylhydroquinone or 2-methoxyhydroquinone. This resulted in novel mesogens of phenylene esters with different lateral substituent groups. The effect of the lateral substituent group on the thermotropic phase behavior for these liquid crystalline compounds was investigated using DSC and optical polarized microscopy. All the mesogens proved to have a wide nematic liquid crystalline range. Only the phenylene ester, which has a methoxy lateral substituent, exhibited both nematic and smectic phases. Structural confirmation of all new derivatives was accomplished by 1H- and 13C-NMR spectroscopic analysis, along with CH elemental analysis.
Zinc(II)-5,10,15,20-tetrakis(α-pyridino-m-tolyl)porphyrin Tetrabromide
Authors: Ishikawa Yoshinobu , Yamashita Takeshi , Fujii Satoshi , Uno Tadayuki
Published: November 2009

Cationic porphyrins interact strongly with guanine quadruplex (G-quadruplex) DNA. We report the preparation of the zinc(II) complex of a porphyrin bearing cationic side arms, zinc(II)-5,10,15,20-tetrakis(α-pyridino-m-tolyl)porphyrin tetrabromide (ZnmPy), as a novel probe for the analysis of G-quadruplex/porphyrin interaction.
Studies with Azinylacetonitriles: 2-Pyridylacetonitrile as a Precursor to Functionally Substituted Pyridines
Authors: Al-Sheikh Mariam  Abdullah , Elnagdi Mohamed  Hilmy
Published: November 2009

2-Pyridylacetonitrile (1) couples with aromatic diazonium salts to yield arylhydrazones 2a-c, that were shown to exist in the syn-form 2 rather than the anti-form 4. Compounds 2a,c reacted with hydroxylamine in refluxing DMF to yield the interesting 1,2,3-triazolylpyridines 6. Attempts to cyclize 2 to give the corresponding fused pyrazolopyridines 9 failed. On the other hand, compound 1 condensed with dimethylformamide dimethyl acetal to yield enaminonitrile 10 that could be converted into pyrazolylpyridine 11.
Bioactive Azafluorenone Alkaloids from Polyalthia debilis (Pierre) Finet & Gagnep.
Authors: Prachayasittikul Supaluk , Manam Patumporn , Chinworrungsee Maneekarn , Isarankura-Na-Ayudhya Chartchalerm , Ruchirawat Somsak , Prachayasittikul Virapong
Published: November 2009

This study investigated bioactive extracts of Polyalthia debilis (Annonaceae) with antimicrobial, antimalarial and cytotoxic activities. Extensive chromatographic isolations provided azafluorenone alkaloids; onychine (1) and 7-methoxyonychine (2) together with a mixture of β–sitosterol and stigmasterol. The two alkaloids were isolated from the P. debilis for the first time. Isolated fractions containing a mixture of triterpenoids (C7, C8 and C9) exhibited the most potent antimicrobial activity against many bacterial strains with minimum inhibitory concentration of 64 μg/mL. Fractions with antimalarial and cytotoxic activities were also observed. The findings suggest the potential use of P. debilis in medicinal applications.
Depigmenting Effect of Catechins
Authors: Sato Kazuomi , Toriyama Masaru
Published: November 2009

The aim of the present work was to clarify the anti-melanogenic mechanism of the catechin group. In this study, we used (-)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), (-)-epigallocatechin (EGC), (-)-catechin (C), and gallic acid (GA). The catechin group inhibited melanin synthesis in B16 melanoma cells. To elucidate the anti-melanogenic mechanism of the catechin group, we performed Western blotting analysis for crucial melanogenic protein, namely tyrosinase. The catechin group inhibited tyrosinase expression. These results indicate that the catechin group is a candidate anti-melanogenic agent and that it might be effective in hyperpigmentation disorders.
Derivation of Soil Line Influence on Two-Band Vegetation Indices and Vegetation Isolines
Authors: Yoshioka Hiroki , Miura Tomoaki , Demattê José A. M. , Batchily Karim , Huete Alfredo R.
Published: November 2009

This paper introduces derivations of soil line influences on two-band vegetation indices (VIs) and vegetation isolines in the red and near infra-red reflectance space. Soil line variations are described as changes in the soil line parameters (slope and offset) and the red reflectance of the soil surface. A general form of a VI model equation written as a ratio of two linear functions (e.g., NDVI and SAVI) was assumed. It was found that relative VI variations can be approximated by a linear combination of the three soil parameters. The derived expressions imply the possibility of estimating and correcting for soil-induced bias errors in VIs and their derived biophysical parameters, caused by the assumption of a general soil line, through the use of external data sources such as regional soil maps.
Wireless Sensor Technologies and Applications
Authors: Xia Feng
Published: November 2009

Recent years have witnessed tremendous advances in the design and applications of wirelessly networked and embedded sensors. Wireless sensor nodes are typically low-cost, low-power, small devices equipped with limited sensing, data processing and wireless communication capabilities, as well as power supplies. They leverage the concept of wireless sensor networks (WSNs), in which a large (possibly huge) number of collaborative sensor nodes could be deployed. As an outcome of the convergence of micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) technology, wireless communications, and digital electronics, WSNs represent a significant improvement over traditional sensors. In fact, the rapid evolution of WSN technology has accelerated the development and deployment of various novel types of wireless sensors, e.g., multimedia sensors. Fulfilling Moore’s law, wireless sensors are becoming smaller and cheaper, and at the same time more powerful and ubiquitous. [...]
An Integrated ISFET Sensor Array
Authors: Nakazato Kazuo
Published: November 2009

A monolithically integrated ISFET sensor array and interface circuit are described. A new high-density, low-power source-drain follower was developed for the sensor array. ISFETs were formed by depositing Au/Ti extended-gate electrodes on standard MOSFETs, then thin silicon nitride layers using catalytic chemical vapor deposition and/or SU-8 protective layers were formed on the extended-gate electrodes. Applications for the array include: (1) pH detection by statistical distribution observing time and space fluctuations; (2) DNA detection using thiol-modified or silane-coupled oligonucleotides; (3) bio-image sensing by converting photons to electrons using Photosystem I of Thermosynechococcus elongatus, and sensing the converted electric charges by ISFETs.
Membrane Processes Based on Complexation Reactions of Pollutants as Sustainable Wastewater Treatments
Authors: Molinari Raffaele , Argurio Pietro , Poerio Teresa
Published: November 2009

Water is today considered to be a vital and limited resource due to industrial development and population growth. Developing appropriate water treatment techniques, to ensure a sustainable management, represents a key point in the worldwide strategies. By removing both organic and inorganic species using techniques based on coupling membrane processes and appropriate complexing agents to bind pollutants are very important alternatives to classical separation processes in water treatment. Supported Liquid Membrane (SLM) and Complexation Ultrafiltration (CP-UF) based processes meet the sustainability criteria because they require low amounts of energy compared to pressure driven membrane processes, low amounts of complexing agents and they allow recovery of water and some pollutants (e.g., metals). A more interesting process, on the application point of view, is the Stagnant Sandwich Liquid Membrane (SSwLM), introduced as SLM implementation. It has been studied in the separation of the drug gemfibrozil (GEM) and of copper(II) as organic and inorganic pollutants in water. Obtained results showed in both cases the higher efficiency of SSwLM with respect to the SLM system configuration. Indeed higher stability (335.5 vs. 23.5 hours for GEM; 182.7 vs. 49.2 for copper(II)) and higher fluxes (0.662 vs. 0.302 mmol·h-1·m-2 for GEM; 43.3 vs. 31.0 for copper(II)) were obtained by using the SSwLM. Concerning the CP-UF process, its feasibility was studied in the separation of metals from waters (e.g., from soil washing), giving particular attention to process sustainability such as water and polymer recycle, free metal and water recovery. The selectivity of the CP-UF process was also validated in the separate removal of copper(II) and nickel(II) both contained in synthetic and real aqueous effluents. Thus, complexation reactions involved in the SSwLM and the CP-UF processes play a key role to meet the sustainability criteria.
Revisiting Plus-Strand DNA Synthesis in Retroviruses and Long Terminal Repeat Retrotransposons: Dynamics of Enzyme: Substrate Interactions
Authors: Fabris Daniele , Marino John  P. , Le Grice Stuart F. J.
Published: November 2009

Although polypurine tract (PPT)-primed initiation of plus-strand DNA synthesis in retroviruses and LTR-containing retrotransposons can be accurately duplicated, the molecular details underlying this concerted series of events remain largely unknown. Importantly, the PPT 3’ terminus must be accommodated by ribonuclease H (RNase H) and DNA polymerase catalytic centers situated at either terminus of the cognate reverse transcriptase (RT), and in the case of the HIV-1 enzyme, ~70Å apart. Communication between RT and the RNA/DNA hybrid therefore appears necessary to promote these events. The crystal structure of the HIV-1 RT/PPT complex, while informative, positions the RNase H active site several bases pairs from the PPT/U3 junction, and thus provides limited information on cleavage specificity. To fill the gap between biochemical and crystallographic approaches, we review a multidisciplinary approach combining chemical probing, mass spectrometry, NMR spectroscopy and single molecule spectroscopy. Our studies also indicate that nonnucleoside RT inhibitors affect enzyme orientation, suggesting initiation of plus-strand DNA synthesis as a potential therapeutic target.
Murine Coronavirus Cell Type Dependent Interaction with the Type I Interferon Response
Authors: Rose Kristine  M. , Weiss Susan  R.
Published: November 2009

Coronaviruses infect many species of animal including humans, causing acute and chronic diseases of many organ systems. Murine coronavirus, mouse hepatitis virus (MHV) infection of the mouse, provides animal models for the study of central nervous system disease, including encephalitis and demyelinating diseases such as Multiple Sclerosis and for hepatitis. While there are many studies of the adaptive immune response to MHV, there has until recently been scant information on the type I interferon (IFN) response to MHV. The relationship between MHV and the IFN-α/β response is paradoxical. While the type I IFN response is a crucial aspect of host defense against MHV in its natural host, there is little if any induction of IFN following infection of mouse fibroblast cell lines in vitro. Furthermore, MHV is relatively resistant to the antiviral effects of IFN-α/β in mouse fibroblast cell lines and in human 293T cells. MHV can, under some circumstances, compromise the antiviral effects of IFN signaling. The nucleocapsid protein as well as the nsp1 and nsp3 proteins of MHV has been reported to have IFN antagonist activity. However, in primary cell types such as plasmacytoid dendritic cells (pDC) and macrophages, IFN is induced by MHV infection and an antiviral state is established. Other primary cell types such as neurons, astrocytes and hepatocytes fail to produce IFN following infection and, in vivo, likely depend on IFN produced by pDCs and macrophages for protection from MHV. Thus MHV induction of IFN-α/β and the ability to induce an antiviral state in response to interferon is extremely cell type dependent. IFN induced protection from MHV pathogenesis likely requires the orchestrated activities of several cell types, however, the cell types involved in limiting MHV replication may be different in the liver and in the immune privileged CNS.
Lumbar interbody expanding cage
Authors: Careddu G. , Masala G. , Columbano N. , Doria C. , Crissantu L. , Sanna Passino E. , Manunta M.
Published: November 2009

Interbody fusion devices are used in human medicine for treating degenerative diseases of the spine. Currently, there is not a universally accepted assessment tool for determining fusion, and the definitive criteria for diagnosing a successful interbody fusion remain controversial. The aim of this study was to describe microscopic and helical computed tomography (CT) imaging in the assessment of lumbar interbody fusion using cylindrical threaded titanium expanding cage in sheep. One cylindrical threaded expanding titanium cage (Proconcept – SA, Orange, France) was inserted through a transperitoneal approach after radical discectomy and packed with cancellous bone autograft in five adult sheep. The subjects were euthanatized after three, six, 12, 18 and 24 months. CT images revealed lumbar fusion at 12 months post operation, whereas microscopic evaluations indicated the presence of lumbar fusion at 18 months. CT and histological grades were the same in 65% of the cases observed. There were not a significant difference between CT, histological and micro radiographic grades. Helical CT scanning can be considered to be a suitable method for the monitoring of lumbar fusion as it enables observation of the deposition of bony bridging within the cage.
Histology and immunohistochemistry study of ovine tendon grafted with cBMSCs and BMMNCs after collagenase-induced tendinitis
Authors: Lacitignola L. , Francioso E. , Rossi G. , Crovace A.
Published: November 2009

Objectives: The aim of this study was to compare the regeneration abilities of cultured bone marrow mesenchymal cells (cBMSC) and bone marrow mononuclear cells (BMMNC) with fibrin glue, saline solution and sham control in collagenase–induced tendinitis of the Achilles tendon in sheep. Methods: Six sheep were recruited randomly to each group: cBMSC, BMMNC, fibrin, saline and sham control. Each group received the relative treatment two weeks after inducing lesions (T0). After eight weeks (T8) of treatment, the tendons were harvested and evaluated for histomorphology, Collagen type I, III, Cartilage Oligomeric Matrix Protein (COMP) and CD34 positive cells expression. Results: Histology and immunohistochemistry showed similar capabilities of cBMSC and BMMNC to restore the architecture of fibres and Extra Cellular Matrix (ECM), with a high expression of collagen type I and COMP and a very low expression of collagen type III in treated tendons. The complete architectural disruption of fibres, dramatic reduction of collagen Type I and COMP expression and increase collagen type III expression were commonly observed in tendons treated with fibrin or saline only. The presence of CD34 positive cells was appreciable in the BMMNC group while few cBMSC showed this cluster of differentiation, not expressed in tendons treated with fibrin or saline. Clinical significance: The data in this study show the efficacy of cBMSC and BMMNC in regenerating tendon tissue after collagenase–induced tendinitis.
Examining the Visitor Attraction Product: A Case Study
Authors: Mehmetoglu Mehmet , Abelsen Birgit
Published: November 2009

An increasing interest in attraction competitiveness has led to attention being directed towards the definition and description of the attraction product, and how visitors consider its different parts. Accordingly, this article first reviews the literature on the visitor attraction
product, from which it proposes a model, that of Levitt, consisting of three product components. Secondly, these three components are used to identify a particular attraction's attributes and then to examine their effects on visitors' satisfaction with their experience at the attraction. The
data for this study were obtained from 573 usable questionnaires completed by the visitors of a heritage museum located in Northern Norway. The results indicate that the museum's attraction product consists of learning, status, novelty (core), staff service, visual and information (tangible),
ancillary features, and easy access (augmented) aspects. The findings further reveal that only ancillary features and learning aspects of the augmented and core product components, respectively, have a significant influence on visitors' satisfaction with their overall experience at the museum,
whereas both aspects of the tangible component are considered the most influential factors.
Value as a Measure of Tourism Performance in the Era of Globalization: Conceptual Considerations and Empirical Findings
Authors: Croes Robertico R.
Published: November 2009

In general, both the World Tourism Organization (WTO) and the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) consider the trends of tourist arrivals and receipts as indicators in comparing the performance of destinations and regions. These considerations are based on the annual average percentage change in arrivals and receipts and a comparison that is made across time. This methodology is incomplete, however, particularly in light of the new exigencies of globalization. The study proposes an alternative approach based on the concept of value. Value is founded on the premises of microeconomics, and it provides more reliable and effective information to improve the quality of both policy formulation and business decisions. Using partial correlation analysis, the study introduced a time trend variable as a proxy of value. The study developed a panel of observations from 1986 to 2001 for 32 countries worldwide. In terms of performance, the results of the alternative approach differ dramatically from those obtained in conventional methodology.