bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Construction of a Genome-Scale Kinetic Model of Mycobacterium Tuberculosis Using Generic Rate Equations
Authors: Adiamah Delali A. , Schwartz Jean-Marc
Published: July 2012

The study of biological systems at the genome scale helps us understand fundamental biological processes that govern the activity of living organisms and regulate their interactions with the environment. Genome-scale metabolic models are usually analysed using constraint-based methods, since detailed rate equations and kinetic parameters are often missing. However, constraint-based analysis is limited in capturing the dynamics of cellular processes. In this paper, we present an approach to build a genome-scale kinetic model of Mycobacterium tuberculosis metabolism using generic rate equations. M. tuberculosis causes tuberculosis which remains one of the largest killer infectious diseases. Using a genetic algorithm, we estimated kinetic parameters for a genome-scale metabolic model of M. tuberculosis based on flux distributions derived from Flux Balance Analysis. Our results show that an excellent agreement with flux values is obtained under several growth conditions, although kinetic parameters may vary in different conditions. Parameter variability analysis indicates that a high degree of redundancy remains present in model parameters, which suggests that the integration of other types of high-throughput datasets will enable the development of better constrained models accounting for a variety of in vivo phenotypes.
Flavonoids and Other Compounds from Ouratea ferruginea (Ochnaceae) as Anticancer and Chemopreventive Agents
Authors: Fidelis Queli C. , Castro Rosane N. , Guilhon Giselle M. S. P. , Rodrigues Silvane T. , De Salles Cristiane M. C. , De Salles João B. , De Carvalho Mario G.
Published: July 2012

The chemical study of the extracts from leaves and stems of Ouratea ferruginea allowed the identification of a new isoflavone, 5-hydroxy-7,3′4′5′-tetramethoxyisoflavone, and twenty two known compounds, including friedelin, 3β-friedelinol, lupeone, a mixture of sitosterol, stigmasterol and campesterol, sitosteryl- and stigmasteryl-3-O-b-D-glucopyranosides, 5,4′-dihydroxy-7,5′,3′-trimethoxyisoflavone, 5,4′-dihydroxy-7,3′-di-methoxyisoflavone (7,3′-di-O-methylorobol), 5,7,4′-trihydroxy-3′,5′-dimethoxyisoflavone (piscigenin), 2R,3R-epicatechin, syringic acid, 2,6-dimethoxybenzoquinone, 2,6-dimethoxyhydroquinone, syringic and ferulic aldehyde, a mixture of vanillic acid, 1-hydroxy-2-methoxy-4-(1E-3-hydroxy-1-propenyl)-benzene and 3,5-dimethoxy-4-hydroxy-dihydrocinamaldehyde, besides amenthoflavone and 7-O-methylamenthoflavone (sequoiaflavone) which are considered as chemotaxonomic markers of Ouratea. The structures were identified by IR, 1H- and 13C-NMR and GC-MS, HPLC-MS, besides comparison with literature data. The inhibitory effects of 5,4′-dihydroxy-7,5′,3′-trimethoxyisoflavone, 7,3′-di-O-methylorobol, piscigenin and 7-O-methylamenthoflavone on cytochrome P450-dependent 7-ethoxycoumarin O-deethylase (ECOD) and glutathione S-transferase (GST) were evaluated in vitro. The 5,4′-dihydroxy-7,5′,3′-trimethoxy-isoflavone was the best inhibitor, inhibiting almost 75% of GST activity. Sequoiaflavone was the most potent inhibitor, inhibiting ECOD assay in 75%. These activities allow us to consider both these flavonoids as potential anticancer and chemopreventive agents.
Gamma-Mangostin, a Micronutrient of Mangosteen Fruit, Induces Apoptosis in Human Colon Cancer Cells
Authors: Chang Hui-Fang , Yang Ling-Ling
Published: July 2012

Recently colorectal cancer rates have increased rapidly in Taiwan. The treatment of colorectal cancer includes surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy. Mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana) is a famous Asian tropical fruit. γ-Mangostin is a xanthone derivative isolated from the fruit hull. In previous studies, we found evidence of anti-inflammatory and anti-brain tumor activities in γ-mangostin. In this study, we performed further studies to assess the apoptotic effects of γ-mangostin on colorectal adenocarcinoma cells HT29. γ-Mangostin showed concentration and time-dependent cytotoxic effects on HT29 cells. Microscopic observation under Giemsa staining showed that γ-mangostin induced cellular swelling and the appearance of apoptotic bodies, characteristic of apoptosis in HT29 cells. In addition, flow cytometry analysis showed an increase of hypodiploid cells in γ-mangostin-treated HT29 cells, while enhancement of intracellular peroxide production was detected in the same γ-mangostin-treated cells by DCHDA assay and DiOC6(3) staining. In view of the above results, γ-mangostin has demonstrated anticancer activity and induces apoptosis in HT29 colorectal adenocarcinoma cells. The evidence suggests that γ-mangostin could serve as a micronutrient for colon cancer prevention and is a potential lead compound for the development of anti-colon cancer agents.
Polymer-Based Microfluidic Devices for Pharmacy, Biology and Tissue Engineering
Authors: Alrifaiy Ahmed , Lindahl Olof A. , Ramser Kerstin
Published: July 2012

This paper reviews microfluidic technologies with emphasis on applications in the fields of pharmacy, biology, and tissue engineering. Design and fabrication of microfluidic systems are discussed with respect to specific biological concerns, such as biocompatibility and cell viability. Recent applications and developments on genetic analysis, cell culture, cell manipulation, biosensors, pathogen detection systems, diagnostic devices, high-throughput screening and biomaterial synthesis for tissue engineering are presented. The pros and cons of materials like polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), polystyrene (PS), polycarbonate (PC), cyclic olefin copolymer (COC), glass, and silicon are discussed in terms of biocompatibility and fabrication aspects. Microfluidic devices are widely used in life sciences. Here, commercialization and research trends of microfluidics as new, easy to use, and cost-effective measurement tools at the cell/tissue level are critically reviewed.
Performance Testing of a Magnetically Suspended Double Gimbal Control Moment Gyro Based on the Single Axis Air Bearing Table
Authors: Cui Peiling , Zhang Huijuan , Yan Ning , Fang Jiancheng
Published: July 2012

Integrating the advantage of magnetic bearings with a double gimble control moment gyroscope (DGCMG), a magnetically suspended DGCMG (MSDGCMG) is an ideal actuator in high-precision, long life, and rapid maneuver attitude control systems. The work presented here mainly focuses on performance testing of a MSDGCMG independently developed by Beihang University, based on the single axis air bearing table. In this paper, taking into sufficient consideration to the moving-gimbal effects and the response bandwidth limit of the gimbal, a special MSDGCMG steering law is proposed subject to the limits of gimbal angle rate and angle acceleration. Finally, multiple experiments are carried out, with different MSDGCMG angular momenta as well as different desired attitude angles. The experimental results indicate that the MSDGCMG has a good gimbal angle rate and output torque tracking capabilities, and that the attitude stability with MSDGCMG as actuator is superior to 10−3°/s. The MSDGCMG performance testing in this paper, carried out under moving-base condition, will offer a technique base for the future research and application of MSDGCMGs.
Modelling Carbon Nanotubes-Based Mediatorless Biosensor
Authors: Baronas Romas , Kulys Juozas , Petrauskas Karolis , Razumiene Julija
Published: July 2012

This paper presents a mathematical model of carbon nanotubes-based mediatorless biosensor. The developed model is based on nonlinear non-stationary reaction-diffusion equations. The model involves four layers (compartments): a layer of enzyme solution entrapped on a terylene membrane, a layer of the single walled carbon nanotubes deposited on a perforated membrane, and an outer diffusion layer. The biosensor response and sensitivity are investigated by changing the model parameters with a special emphasis on the mediatorless transfer of the electrons in the layer of the enzyme-loaded carbon nanotubes. The numerical simulation at transient and steady state conditions was carried out using the finite difference technique. The mathematical model and the numerical solution were validated by experimental data. The obtained agreement between the simulation results and the experimental data was admissible at different concentrations of the substrate.
Superspheres: Intermediate Shapes between Spheres and Polyhedra
Authors: Onaka Susumu
Published: July 2012

Using an x-y-z coordinate system, the equations of the superspheres have been extended to describe intermediate shapes between a sphere and various convex polyhedra. Near-polyhedral shapes composed of {100}, {111} and {110} surfaces with round edges are treated in the present study, where {100}, {111} and {110} are the Miller indices of crystals with cubic structures. The three parameters p, a and b are included to describe the {100}-{111}-{110} near-polyhedral shapes, where p describes the degree to which the shape is a polyhedron and a and b determine the ratios of the {100}, {111} and {110} surfaces.
Novel microsatellite loci for Agave parryi and cross‐amplification in Agave palmeri (Agavaceae)
Authors: Lindsay Denise L. , Edwards Christine E. , Jung Michael G. , Bailey Pamela , Lance Richard F.
Published: July 2012

• Premise of the study: To examine the foraging behavior of nectarivorous bats in southeastern Arizona, we developed microsatellite primers in Agave parryi. These markers were also tested for cross‐amplification and applicability to assess patterns of genetic diversity and structure in A. palmeri.

• Methods and Results: Utilizing DNA sequence data from 454 shotgun sequencing, we identified seven novel polymorphic microsatellite loci in A. parryi and screened them for cross‐amplification in A. palmeri. These markers were characterized in two populations of 30 individuals each for each species. In A. parryi, all primers were polymorphic and amplified between three and 12 alleles per population. In A. palmeri, all primers amplified, six were polymorphic, and allelic diversity ranged from one to 16 alleles per population.

• Conclusions: Our results demonstrate the applicability of these microsatellite primers for population genetics studies in both A. parryi and A. palmeri.
INNOVATIVE USE OF WOOD IN CONTEMPORARY ARCHITECTURE / INOVATYVUS MEDIENOS TAIKYMAS ŠIUOLAIKINĖJE ARCHITEKTŪROJE
Authors: Gabrėnas Arnoldas
Published: July 2012

In contemporary architecture of Lithuania, wood is becoming a material of increasing importance. The article reviews some Lithuanian and foreign examples as well as development of innovative wooden architectural forms and a variety of constructional–technological expressions. Wood is analysed as material that enables the most innovative architectural shapes to transform into harmonious inhabited environments, to encode images, semantic symbols, declare aesthetical, social and ecological ideas. Wooden constructions can be applied for new buildings and renovation, realising various building forms in different volume, height and structural framework. The evolution of wooden architecture morphology both in Lithuania and abroad becomes more and more important and significant for formation of contemporary human environment.

Santrauka

Mediena šiuolaikinėje Lietuvos architektūroje tampa vis aktualesnė medžiaga. Straipsnyje aptariami kai kurie medinės architektūros objektai užsienyje ir Lietuvoje, apžvelgiama inovatyvių medinių architektūrinių formų meninė ir konstruktyvinė technologinė raiškos įvairovė. Mediena nagrinėjama kaip meninė priemonė, leidžianti kuriamus naujus architektūros pavidalus paversti harmoningos gyvenamosios aplinkos dalimi, jais koduoti įvaizdžius, semantinius simbolius, deklaruoti estetines, socialines ir ekologines idėjas. Novatoriškos architektūros meninės raiškos požiūriu išskiriami plokštuminiai, racionalios geometrijos, plastiški ir struktūriški mediniai objektai, kurie neretai yra progresyvių, sudėtingų formų, turi vizualiai neįprastą tektoniką. Analizuojant vientisų ir segmentinių medinių konstrukcijų teikiamas galimybes tampa akivaizdu, kad jos padeda įgyvendinti išmoningiausius formos sumanymus, sukurti medinius objektus ar jų dalis, pasižyminčias mechaniniu, klimatiniu, cheminiu atsparumu, santykiniu lengvumu, transformavimo galimybėmis, tiksliais matmenimis. Medinės konstrukcijos gali būti taikomos naujoje statyboje ir atliekant renovaciją, įgyvendinant įvairaus tūrio, aukščio ir struktūrinės sandaros statinių formas. Mediena šiuolaikinėje architektūroje leidžia rasti efektingą kompozicinį balansą su kitos medžiagos paviršiais eksterjeruose, interjeruose, viešosiose erdvėse ir gamtinėje aplinkoje. Medinės architektūros inovatyvios morfologijos paieškos yra svarbi nūdienos žmogaus aplinkos formavimo sritis bei reikšminga Lietuvos ir užsienio šiuolaikinės architektūros dalis.
SOME TERRITORY PLANNING INSIGHTS AND TRENDS THAT MAY AFFECT THE RENEWAL OF PUBLIC SPACES FOR RECREATION AND RESIDENTIAL NEIGHBOURHOODS / KAI KURIOS TERITORIJŲ PLANAVIMO ĮŽVALGOS IR TENDENCIJOS, GALINČIOS TURĖTI ĮTAKOS ATNAUJINANT VIEŠĄSIAS REKREACINES ERDVES MIESTO GYVENAMŲJŲ NAMŲ RAJONUOSE
Authors: Katkevičius Audrius , Pridotkienė Lina , Grecevičius Petras
Published: July 2012

A city is a structure that is constantly changing with time. In residential neighbourhoods, renewal projects receive a lot of attention is terms of modernisation of open spaces as well as the aesthetic quality of architectural planning. Reorganisation of spaces for leisure and recreation became necessary because of declining aesthetic, ecological and economical conditions. In most cases, this is one of the factors that influence emigration to other countries and internal migration to city edges and to the former collective garden areas. As a result, a residential neighbourhood in a city serves only as a temporal “station”, which unfortunately fails to ensure a safe social environment. Negative urban factors demand for adjustments in existing political, legal and financial documents that regulate the renewal and development of residential housing estates. The main analysed problem – the tendency pertaining to development of public spaces and existing renewal opportunities in residential neighbourhoods. The article deals with the main directions, features and aspirations related to formation of public spaces in residential areas, on the basis of a particular residential neighbourhood complex urban structure study and the project as an example. Santrauka Miestas yra nuolat kintanti laiko požiūriu struktūra. Dabartiniu metu vis didesnis dėmesys gyvenamųjų rajonų ir kvartalų atnaujinimo projektuose skiriamas atvirų erdvių modernizacijai, estetinei architektūrinio planavimo kokybei. Erdvių, skirtų gyventojų laisvalaikiui ir rekreacijai, pertvarkymas tapo būtinas dėl prastėjančių gyvenamosios aplinkos sąlygų: estetinių, ekologinių, ekonominių. Daugeliu atvejų tai yra vienas iš veiksnių, lemiančių gyventojų emigraciją į kitas šalis bei vidinę migraciją į miestų pakraščius bei buvusių kolektyvinių sodų teritorijas. Gyvenamasis kvartalas mieste tampa jų laikina, „tarpine stotele“ su ne visada saugia socialine terpe. Nauji veiksniai lemia būtinybę koreguoti šalyje veikiančius dokumentus, reglamentuojančius gyvenamųjų namų kvartalų atnaujinimą ir plėtrą. Pagrindinė analizuojama problema – viešųjų erdvių plėtojimo tendencijos ir egzistuojančios galimybės atnaujinamuose gyvenamųjų namų kvartaluose iš esmės pagerinti gyventojų rekreacijos, aplinkos kokybės sąlygas. Straipsnyje aptariamos gyvenamojo rajono viešųjų erdvių formavimo pagrindinės kryptys, ypatumai ir siekiamybės, remiantis konkretaus Lieporių gyvenamojo rajono Šiauliuose kompleksinio urbanistinės struktūros tyrimo ir projekto pavyzdžiu.
Hôpitaux : vers un même niveau d'exigence pour la performance qualité que pour la performance économique ?
Authors: Bras Pierre-Louis
Published: July 2012

Résumé La tarification à l’activité adresse aux établissements de santé une incitation puissante à rechercher la performance économique. Celle-ci est mesurée et sanctionnée. Il est à craindre que la focalisation sur les résultats économiques incite les équipes de direction et les autorités de tutelle à privilégier l’exigence économique au regard des exigences de qualité. Il est donc nécessaire de se donner les moyens de mesurer et de gérer la performance qualité des établissements au même titre que leur performance économique. Cette démarche est engagée à l’étranger. La France en ce domaine souffre d’un certain retard. Il importe de le combler pour équilibrer le système de gestion de l’hôpital. Par ailleurs, mesurer et gérer la qualité permet d’informer les patients et constitue un élément de motivation des équipes à améliorer leurs pratiques.
Transhumanisme versus bioconservateurs
Authors: Alexandre Laurent
Published: July 2012

Résumé Derrière la convergence NBIC (nanotechnologies, biotechnologies, intelligence artificielle, sciences cognitives), une philosophie de transformation radicale de l’humanité – le transhumanisme – rêve de changer l’homme. Les potentialités technologiques sont illimitées : c’est le résultat de la confrontation entre bioprogressistes (les transhumanistes) et bioconservateurs qui déterminera ce que nous deviendrons. Les nanotechnologies, la biologie, l’informatique et les sciences cognitives (intelligence artificielle et sciences du cerveau) progressent et convergent, les découvertes dans un domaine servant aux recherches dans un autre. Cette synergie décuplera la puissance de la recherche et permettra des avancées spectaculaires. Une médecine de combat utilisant toutes les armes NBIC pour entretenir l’usine de nos cellules est déjà sur les rails.
Télémédecine sous X ? Pourquoi prolonger cette protection individuelle historique ?
Authors: Béranger Jérôme , Servy Hervé , Le Coz Pierre , Tervé Pierre
Published: July 2012

Résumé Alors que le secret médical est un fondamental depuis l’Antiquité, le droit français a créé la possibilité pour le patient d’invoquer une protection supplémentaire : le « sous x ». Historiquement liée à des contraintes sociales (accouchement des grossesses non désirées au XIX e siècle), elle est redevenue contemporaine avec des pathologies telles que le sida. Fondée sur l’idée que l’individu a la possibilité de se doter d’une protection en cas de défaillance de la chaîne du secret médical, cette idée est d’autant plus actuelle que les risques de fuite de données non contrôlées sont en augmentation avec l’importance croissante du recours aux technologies de l’information. Les auteurs reviennent sur l’histoire de cette liberté face à l’obligation du respect du secret médical, examinent les nouveaux risques technologiques avec prospective, enfin proposent des pistes pour une application en télémédecine de cette liberté individuelle qui a longtemps semblé fondamentale.
L'organisation des soins délaisse la réponse de proximité
Authors: Cantal-Dupart Michel
Published: July 2012

Résumé Né en 1940, Michel Cantal-Dupart commence sa carrière d’urbaniste en Tunisie à la fin des années 1960, en tant que directeur du Groupe 8 et qu’expert de l’Unesco. Chargé ensuite par François Mitterrand de la mission Banlieues 89 avec Roland Castro, il nourit l’ensemble de ses projets urbains d’une conception humaniste attentive au lien social (Perpignan, Nantes, Grand Paris, etc.). Il est professeur émérite au Conservatoire national des arts et métiers (Cnam, chaire Urbanisme et environnement).
New Trends in Solar Cells
Authors: Yamaguchi Masafumi , Fara Laurentiu
Published: July 2012

Photovoltaic (PV) power generation technology is one of the most promising renewable energy technologies because of the possibility of solving environmental problems and limited sources of energy. In order to realize widespread deployment of solar photovoltaics and contribute to further development in civilization, further development in the science and technology of PV is very important. That is, further improvements in conversion efficiencies and reliability and lowering the cost of solar cells and modules are necessary. Regarding conversion efficiencies of solar cells, because there is the Shockley–Queisser conversion efficiency limit of 31% at 1-sun and 41% under concentration for single bandgap solar cells, several approaches to overcome the Shockley–Queisser limit should be made. This book will provide readers some guidance to overcome the limit. This chapter presents the current status of solar cells and new trends in solar cells from the viewpoint of conversion efficiency.
Physical Limitations of Photovoltaic Conversion
Authors: Fara Laurentiu , Yamaguchi Masafumi
Published: July 2012

This chapter presents the factors that are included in the expression of the conversion efficiency of a solar cell. These factors are upper limited, and that is why the conversion efficiency could not exceed certain critical values. The chapter analyzes thermodynamic limitations, correction introduced by the atmosphere, Shockley-Quiesser limitations (based on the detailed energy balance), as well as additional limitations. Then it discusses ways to improve the conversion efficiency and future research directions.
Polymer Solar Cells
Authors: Zaharia Catalin
Published: July 2012

Currently, the active materials used for the fabrication of solar cells are mainly inorganic. Materials such as silicon (Si), gallium-arsenide (GaAs), cadmium-telluride (CdTe), and cadmium-indium-selenide (CIS). Nevertheless, the large production cost for the silicon solar cells is one of the major drawback in this field. This chapter is dedicated to a critical presentation of another type of photovoltaics, called polymer, or plastic, solar cell technology. Polymer solar cells have attracted significant attention in the past few years due to their potential of providing environmentally safe, lightweight, flexible, and efficient solar cells.
Quantum Dot Solar Cells
Authors: Okada Yoshitaka , Yoshida Katsuhisa , Shoji Yasushi
Published: July 2012

Advanced concepts for high efficiency solar cells such as hot carrier effects, Multi-Exciton Generation (MEG), and Intermediate-Band (IB) absorption in low-dimensional nanostructures are under focused research topics in recent years. Among various potential approaches, this chapter is devoted to the device physics and development of the state-of-the-art technologies for quantum dot-based IB solar cells.
The Luminescent Solar Concentrator
Authors: Bose Rahul , Barnham Keith W. J. , Chatten Amanda J.
Published: July 2012

Luminescent Solar Concentrators (LSCs) offer a way of making Photovoltaic (PV) systems more attractive through reduced energy costs, the possibility of application in cloudy regions, and improved building integration. LSCs collect light over a large area and concentrate it, both spatially and spectrally, onto solar cells at the edges of the device, such that the total cell area required to generate a specific power is reduced. Since the solar cells constitute the more expensive component in the system, this leads to cost reductions. Unlike conventional geometric concentrators, LSCs do not require solar tracking and can collect diffuse as well as direct sunlight. The current research challenges lie in increasing the efficiency of the LSC and extending it to larger areas to make it commercially viable. In this chapter, the authors outline the mode of operation of the LSC, with particular regard to cost considerations and device geometry. They then review recent approaches aiming to increase device efficiency and, finally, introduce their versatile raytrace approach to modelling the LSC. The model is utilised here to investigate tapered LSC designs and rationalise the optimal geometry and configuration for planar LSCs.
Prospects and Strategy of Development for Advanced Solar Cells
Authors: Fara Laurentiu , Yamaguchi Masafumi
Published: July 2012

This chapter presents the necessity for developing high performance, low-cost, and highly reliable solar cells in order to further deployment of photovoltaics, as well as the prospects and strategies for developing advanced solar cells.
Mesenchymal Stem/Stromal Cells Induce the Generation of Novel IL-10–Dependent Regulatory Dendritic Cells by SOCS3 Activation
Authors: Liu Xingxia , Qu Xuebin , Chen Yuan , Liao Lianming , Cheng Kai , Shao Changshun , Zenke Martin , Keating Armand , Zhao Robert C. H.
Published: July 2012

Suppression of immune response by mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) is well documented. However, their regulatory effects on immune cells, especially regulatory dendritic cells, are not fully understood. We have identified a novel Sca-1+Lin−CD117− MSC population isolated from mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEF) that suppressed lymphocyte proliferation in vitro. Moreover, the Sca-1+Lin−CD117− MEF-MSCs induced hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells to differentiate into novel regulatory dendritic cells (DCs) (Sca-1+Lin−CD117− MEF-MSC–induced DCs) when cocultured in the absence of exogenous cytokines. Small interfering RNA silencing showed that Sca-1+Lin−CD117− MEF-MSCs induced the generation of Sca-1+Lin−CD117− MEF-MSC–induced DCs via IL-10–activated SOCS3, whose expression was regulated by the JAK–STAT pathway. We observed a high degree of H3K4me3 modification mediated by MLL1 and a relatively low degree of H3K27me3 modification regulated by SUZ12 on the promoter of SOCS3 during SOCS3 activation. Importantly, infusion of Sca-1+CD117−Lin− MEF-MSCs suppressed the inflammatory response by increasing DCs with a regulatory phenotype. Thus, our results shed new light on the role of MSCs in modulating regulatory DC production and support the clinical application of MSCs to reduce the inflammatory response in numerous disease states.
Extracellular ATP Exerts Opposite Effects on Activated and Regulatory CD4+ T Cells via Purinergic P2 Receptor Activation
Authors: Trabanelli Sara , Očadlíková Darina , Gulinelli Sara , Curti Antonio , Salvestrini Valentina , de Paula Vieira Rodolfo , Idzko Marco , Di Virgilio Francesco , Ferrari Davide , Lemoli Roberto M.
Published: July 2012

It has been reported that ATP inhibits or stimulates lymphoid cell proliferation depending on the cellular subset analyzed. In this study, we show that ATP exerts strikingly opposite effects on anti-CD3/CD28–activated and regulatory CD4+ T cells (Tregs), based on nucleotide concentration. We demonstrate that physiological concentrations of extracellular ATP (1–50 nM) do not affect activated CD4+ T cells and Tregs. Conversely, higher ATP concentrations have a bimodal effect on activated CD4+ T cells. Whereas 250 nM ATP stimulates proliferation, cytokine release, expression of adhesion molecules, and adhesion, 1 mM ATP induces apoptosis and inhibits activated CD4+ T cell functions. The expression analysis and pharmacological profile of purinergic P2 receptors for extracellular nucleotides suggest that activated CD4+ T cells are induced to apoptosis via the upregulation and engagement of P2X7R and P2X4R. On the contrary, 1 mM ATP enhances proliferation, adhesion, migration, via P2Y2R activation, and immunosuppressive ability of Tregs. Similar results were obtained when activated CD4+ T cells and Tregs were exposed to ATP released by necrotized leukemic cells. Taken together, our results show that different concentrations of extracellular ATP modulate CD4+ T cells according to their activated/regulatory status. Because extracellular ATP concentration highly increases in fast-growing tumors or hyperinflamed tissues, the manipulation of purinergic signaling might represent a new therapeutic target to shift the balance between activated CD4+ T cells and Tregs.
Is There Addiction to Loud Music? Findings in a Group of Non-Professional Pop/Rock Musicians
Authors: Schmuziger Nicolas , Patscheke Jochen , Stieglitz Rolf , Probst Rudolf
Published: July 2012

Listening to loud music may be connected to addictive behavior possibly leading to damaging effects on the cochlea. We hypothesized that members of non-professional pop/rock bands with regular exposure to loud music are more likely to show an addictive-like behavior for loud music than matched control subjects. Fifty non-professional musicians and 50 matched control subjects were asked to complete the Northeastern Music Listening Survey (NEMLS) with two basic components. The first comprises an adaptation of the validated Michigan Alcohol Screening Test (MAST) to study the addictive-like behavior towards loud music. The second comprises the criteria outlined by the fourth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV) of the American Psychiatric Society for the diagnosis of substance dependence. The NEMLS was scored using the same point system as used in the MAST. The DSM-IV criteria for substance dependence were met by nine of the musician group and by one control subject. Seven of these nine musicians also had a positive NEMLS score. Traits of addictive-like behavior to loud music were detected more often in members of nonprofessional pop/rock bands than in control subjects.
Sickle cell disease and Bartonella spp. infection
Authors: Velho Paulo Eduardo Neves Ferreira , Ericson Marna Elise , Mair David , Gupta Kalpna
Published: July 2012

Sickle cell disease is the most common hereditary hematologic disorder in the world. Painful vaso-occlusive crises are the hallmark of the disease and it is difficult to treat. Chronic infection is related to a higher painful crisis rate in these patients. Bartonella spp. are fastidious bacteria of zoonotic transmission. They can cause human asymptomatic infection as well as fatal outcome. Pain, fatigue and fever, characteristic features of Bartonella spp. infection are manifest in sickle cell disease patients. Bartonella spp. infection should be ruled in sickle cell disease patients.
Ph-negative chronic myeloproliferative neoplasm (primary myelofibrosis)– as one of the reasons of the Budd-Chiari syndrome.
Authors: Sanatko Maria Dmitrievna
Published: July 2012

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On the Continuity of the Eigenvalues of a Sublaplacian
Authors: Aribi Amine , Dragomir Sorin , El Soufi Ahmad
Published: July 2012

We study the behavior of the eigenvalues of a sublaplacian Δb on a compact strictly pseudoconvex CR manifold M, as functions on the set P+ of positively oriented contact forms on M by endowing P+ with a natural metric topology.
Formation and evolution mechanism of regional haze: a case study in the megacity Beijing, China
Authors: Liu X. , Li J. , Qu Y. , Han T. , Hou L. , Gu J. , Chen C. , Yang Y. , Liu X. , Yang T. , Zhang Y. , Tian H. , Hu M.
Published: July 2012

Abstract. The main objective of this study is to investigate the formation and evolution mechanism of the regional haze in megacity Beijing by analyzing the process of a severe haze that occurred 20–27 September 2011. Mass concentration and size distribution of aerosol particles as well as aerosol optical properties were concurrently measured at the Beijing urban atmospheric environment monitoring station. Gaseous pollutants (SO2, NO-NO2-NOx, O3, CO) and meteorological parameters (wind speed, wind direction, and relative humidity (RH)) were simultaneously monitored. Meanwhile, aerosol spatial distribution and the height of planetary boundary layer (PBL) were retrieved from the signal of satellite and LIDAR (light detection and ranging). Results showed that high intensity of local pollutants from Beijing urban source is the fundamental cause that led to the regional haze. Meteorological factors such as higher RH, weak surface wind speed, and decreasing height of PBL played an important role on the deterioration of air quality. New particle formation was considered to be the most important factor contributing the formation of haze. In order to improve the atmospheric visibility and reduce the occurrence of the haze, the mass concentration of PM2.5 at dry condition should be less than 60 µg m−3 in Beijing according to the empirical relationship of visibility, PM2.5 mass concentration and RH. This case study may provide valuable information for the public to recognize the formation mechanism of the regional haze event over the megacity, which is also useful for the government to adopt scientific approach to forecast and eliminate the occurrence of regional haze in China.
Changes in column inventories of carbon and oxygen in the Atlantic Ocean
Authors: Tanhua T. , Keeling R. F.
Published: July 2012

Abstract. Increasing concentrations of dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) in the interior ocean is expected as a direct consequence of increasing concentrations of CO2 in the atmosphere. This extra DIC is often referred to as anthropogenic carbon (Cant), and its inventory, or increase rate, in the interior ocean has previously been estimated by a multitude of observational approaches. Each of these methods are associated with hard to test assumptions since Cant cannot be directly observed. Results from a simpler concept with few assumptions applied to the Atlantic Ocean are reported on here using two large data collections of carbon relevant bottle data. The change in column inventory on decadal time scales, i.e. the storage rate, of DIC, respiration compensated DIC and oxygen is calculated for the Atlantic Ocean. The average storage rates for DIC and oxygen is calculated to 0.72 ± 1.22 (95% confidence interval of the mean trend: 0.65–0.78) mol m−2 yr−1 and −0.54 ± 1.64 (95% confidence interval of the mean trend: –0.64–(−0.45)) mol m−2 yr−1, respectively, for the Atlantic Ocean, where the uncertainties reflect station-to-station variability and where the mean trends are non-zero at the 95% confidence level. The standard deviation mainly reflects uncertainty due to regional variations, whereas the confidence interval reflects the mean trend. The storage rates are similar to changes found by other studies, although with large uncertainty. For the subpolar North Atlantic the storage rates show significant temporal variation of all variables. This seems to be due to variations in the prevalence of subsurface water masses with different DIC concentrations leading to sometimes different signs of storage rates for DIC and Cant. This study suggest that accurate assessment of the uptake of CO2 by the oceans will require accounting not only for processes that influence Cant but also additional processes that modify CO2 storage.
Dew formation on the surface of biological soil crusts in central European sand ecosystems
Authors: Fischer T. , Veste M. , Bens O. , Hüttl R. F.
Published: July 2012

Abstract. Dew formation was investigated in three developmental stages of biological soil crusts (BSC), which were collected along a catena of an inland dune and in the initial substrate. The Penman equation, which was developed for saturated surfaces, was modified for unsaturated surfaces and used for prediction of dewfall rates. The levels of surface saturation required for this approach were predicted using the water retention functions and the thicknesses of the BSCs. During a single event, dewfall increased with crust development from 0.08 kg m−2 for the initial substrate to 0.10, 0.20 and 0.25 kg m−2 for crusts stages 1 to 3, respectively, which was well reflected by the model response. The suggested mechanism of dew formation involves a delay in water saturation in near-surface soil pores and EPS where the crusts were thicker and where the water capacity was high, resulting in elevated vapor flux towards the surface. The results also indicate that the amount of dewfall was too low to observe water flow into deeper soil. Analysis of the soil water retention curves revealed that, despite the sandy mineral matrix, moist crusts with clogged by swollen EPS pores exhibited a clay-like behavior. It is hypothesized that BSCs gain double benefit from suppressing their competitors by runoff generation and from improving their water supply by dew collection. Despite higher amounts of dew, the water availability to the crust community decreases with crust development, which may be compensated by ecophysiological adaptation of crust organisms, and which may further suppress higher vegetation or mosses.
Reconnoitering the effect of shallow groundwater on land surface temperature and surface energy balance using MODIS and SEBS
Authors: Alkhaier F. , Su Z. , Flerchinger G. N.
Published: July 2012

Abstract. The possibility of observing shallow groundwater depth and areal extent using satellite measurements can support groundwater models and vast irrigation systems management. Moreover, these measurements can help to include the effect of shallow groundwater on surface energy balance within land surface models and climate studies, which broadens the methods that yield more reliable and informative results. To examine the capacity of MODIS in detecting the effect of shallow groundwater on land surface temperature and the surface energy balance in an area within Al-Balikh River basin in northern Syria, we studied the interrelationship between in-situ measured water table depths and land surface temperatures measured by MODIS. We, also, used the Surface Energy Balance System (SEBS) to calculate surface energy fluxes, evaporative fraction and daily evaporation, and inspected their relationships with water table depths. We found out that the daytime temperature increased while the nighttime temperature decreased when the depth of the water table increased. And, when the water table depth increased, net radiation, latent and ground heat fluxes, evaporative fraction and daily evaporation decreased, while sensible heat flux increased. This concords with the findings of a companion paper (Alkhaier et al., 2012). The observed clear relationships were the result of meeting both conditions that were concluded in the companion paper, i.e. high potential evaporation and big contrast in day-night temperature. Moreover, the prevailing conditions in this study area helped SEBS to yield accurate estimates. Under bare soil conditions and under the prevailing weather conditions, we conclude that MODIS is suitable for detecting the effect of shallow groundwater because it has proper imaging times and adequate sensor accuracy; nevertheless, its coarse spatial resolution is disadvantageous.
The relationship of capital structure decisions with firm performance: A study of the engineering sector of Pakistan
Authors: Khan Abdul Ghafoor
Published: July 2012

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to find the relationship of capital structure decision with the performance of the firms in the developing market economies like Pakistan.Methodology: Pooled Ordinary Least Square regression was applied to 36 engineering sector firms in Pakistani market listed on the Karachi Stock Exchange (KSE) during the period 2003-2009.Findings: The results show that financial leverage measured by short term debt to total assets (STDTA) and total debt to total assets (TDTA) has a significantly negative relationship with the firm performance measured by Return on Assets (ROA), Gross Profit Margin (GM) and Tobin’s Q. The relationship between financial leverage and firm performance measured by the return on equity (ROE) is negative but insignificant. Asset size has an insignificant relationship with the firm performance measured by ROA and GM but negative and significant relationship exists with Tobin’s Q. Firms in the engineering sector of Pakistan are largely dependent on short term debt but debts are attached with strong covenants which affect the performance of the firm.Originality/Value: This is first paper to study an individual sector like engineering industry in Pakistan on the mentioned topic.
Empirical Support for the PCAOB’s Elimination of the Independent Auditor’s Opinion Regarding Management’s Assessment of Internal Control
Authors: Thompson James H. , Ward Bart H.
Published: July 2012

In an attempt to bolster public confidence in the accounting profession, the PCAOB issued several standards that were intended to address weaknesses in audit reporting and to increase public confidence in financial reporting.  One of these standards, Auditing Standard No.2, added two opinions on an enterprise’s internal control to audit reporting requirements. This Standard was superseded by Auditing Standard No. 5, which eliminated one of these opinions. The purpose of this paper is to examine the efficacy of the elimination of the auditor’s opinion regarding management’s assessment of internal control.  The data in this study were taken from 10-K reports filed by Fortune 500 Companies in 2004-2007.  From the 10-K reports, copies of audit reports were gathered for 114 of the 120 largest companies and the opinions (unqualified, qualified, or adverse) were recorded.
International Accounting in a Trilateral MBA Program
Authors: Little Jr Harold T. , Lee Minwoo , Ross Mark T.
Published: July 2012

This paper describes the rationale used in the development, delivery, and subsequent evaluation of an international accounting course required of students in an MBA program. The primary purpose of the course was to provide students in a collaborative arrangement among three universities with an exposure to emerging international accounting and reporting issues, as well as an opportunity to enhance the decision-making skills necessary to be successful in a global business environment.  Included in the paper is a discussion of the issues encountered when incorporating the course into the curriculum, an explanation of how the course was tailored to fit with the program’s objectives, and a critique of the course from both the students’ and instructor’s perspective. Suggestions for design changes aimed at improving the course structure and content can provide valuable insight to both accounting educators and MBA program administrators as they consider the creation and subsequent implementation of an international accounting course.
The Greek Financial Crisis, Extreme Co-Movements and Contagion Effects in the Emu: A Copula Approach
Authors: Adel Boubaker , Salma Jaghoubbi
Published: July 2012

This paper examines the extent of the current financial Greek crisis and the contagion effects it concludes toward the euro zone by conducting an empirical investigation of the dependence structure between seventeen European stock markets during the period 2007-2011. In particular, several copula functions are used to model the degree of cross-market linkages. The model is implemented with a GARCH model for the marginal distributions and the student-t copula for the joint distribution which allows capturing nonlinear relationships and offers significant advantages over econometric techniques in analyzing the co-movement of financial time-series. Our empirical results show that there is strong evidence of market dependence in the euro area. However, the dependence remains significant but weaker, for the major of stock markets, after the occurrence of the Greek crisis.
Medical Staff Attrition in Local Authorities: Experiences from Harare City Council Maternity Clinics (2007-2008)
Authors: Madhekeni Alois , Taderera Hope
Published: July 2012

The years 2007 and 2008 are of special reckoned in the history of Zimbabwe as the economy plunged into a meltdown and professionalism suddenly became an irrelevant status. Institutions in the public sector struggled for relevance as they frantically sought to retain skilled and qualified medical personnel. The maternity service delivery system in local authorities could not escape from the crisis hence the study sought to explore the degree of staff attrition in the sector, major causes, effects and measures of reducing staff attrition. The study involved the collection and analysis of data from 12 council clinics providing maternity services for the period 2007 – 2008. The authors argue that, the state of the economy has got a strong bearing on the level of staff attrition in organisations. Since medical staff are skilled professionals they can easily leave for greener “pastures” hence the need for Councils to improve working conditions.
Capacity Assessment for Integrated Coastal Management in India
Authors: Ramesh Devaraj Asir , Senthil Vel Arumugam , Paul Tapas , Sandhu Sonia Chand
Published: July 2012

The coastal areas of India are getting greater importance in recent years, owing to increasing human population, urbanization and accelerated developmental activities. These anthropogenic activities have created conflict between physical, environmental and human dimensions.  Systematic knowledge and understanding of various dimensions of the coastal area shall guide for wise use of coastal resources, resolving human-induced problems, and improving governance systems. Integrated coastal management (ICM) is conceived as a holistic management tool working across sectoral, disciplinary, and institutional boundaries.  Any program aimed at integrated management of the coastal zone is to meet and overcome the challenges of building up and anchoring new institutional, technical, and administrative capacity. Capacity development on integrated management and planning are recently initiated at academic level in India.  UNDP defines capacity development as “the process through which individuals, organisations and societies obtain, strengthen and maintain the capabilities to set and achieve their own development objectives over time.  A capacity assessment provides a comprehensive perspective on capacities critical to the achievement of development objectives. Capacity need analysis are offering desired future capacities against current capacities and offers a systematic way of gathering critical knowledge and information on capacity asset.  Capacity assessment on Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICM) in India has been conducted by surveying published literatures through data mining from databases.  In total seven thousand three hundred and fifty six indexed research papers which were published in Indias’ coastal areas between the years 1977 and 2008 were assessed for capacity need assessment purpose.  The literatures were classified under sixteen subject heads which are the essential components of ICM planning process.  The subject clusters were further classified into five levels viz., introductory level, process level, decision level, sustainable coastal zone management level, and innovative level.  Researches where does not happened on the particular subjects were classified as “no evidence of research”. Based on the content of the literature and a skill map prepared, it is found that the literatures are mostly under introductory level and they are mostly on science subjects with few on socio-economic and management subjects.  Considering the outcome of this literature survey and capacity analysis, the World Bank has accepted for financial assistance to establish National Centre for Sustainable Coastal Management at Chennai, India.  The process of ICM capacity analysis in India is described in this paper.
Obstacles to Nigeria Political Development – A Critical Evaluation
Authors: Chukwuemeka Emma E.O. , Okoye Prof. J.C. , Egboh Prof. E.A. , Ewuim Ngozi
Published: July 2012

Nigeria is one of the fast developing nations of the third world, but has many obstacles to her political development. The military ruled Nigeria between 1966 to 1979 and 1984 to 1999. Military dominance in NigeriaPolitics has in no small measure impacted negatively on the political development of Nigeria. Therefore political development of Nigeria has been going at a snail speed not only due to frequent  military incursion in government but also  due to many other impediments which include ethnicity, incumbency politics, tenure elongation, godfatherism and poor political orientation . The paper which is theoretical and persuasive examined all these factors critically and recommended among other things that National Assembly should pass a law to make elective office a single tenure. The economy of Nigeria should be organized to make it more productive and also to devise a vision of society within which each person can reasonably perceive that equity and social justice are firmly on the national agenda. To eradicate ethnic politics in Nigeria efforts should be made towards equitable distribution of social, political and economic gains of the polity. Finally efforts should be made to enforce the section of the constitution that dwelt on the formation of political parties that are devoid of ethnicity.