bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spectroscopic, Thermal, and Antimicrobial Studies of Co(II), Ni(II), Cu(II), and Zn(II) Complexes Derived from Bidentate Ligands Containing N and S Donor Atoms
Authors: Singh Kiran , Kumar Yogender , Puri Parvesh , Singh Gulab
Published: November 2012

Two new heterocyclic Schiff bases of 4-amino-5-mercapto-3-H/propyl-1,2,4-triazole and 5-nitrofurfuraldehyde [HL1-2] and their cobalt, nickel, copper, and zinc complexes have been synthesized and characterized by elemental analyses, spectral (UV-Vis, IR,1H NMR, Fluorescence, and ESR) studies, thermal techniques, and magnetic moment measurements. The heterocyclic Schiff bases act as bidentate ligands and coordinate with metal ions through nitrogen and sulphur of the thiol group. The low molar conductance values in DMF indicate that the metal complexes are nonelectrolytes. The magnetic moments and electronic spectral data suggest octahedral geometry for the Co(II), Ni(II), and Zn(II) complexes and square planar for Cu(II) complexes. Two Gram-positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureusMTCC 96 andBacillus subtilisMTCC 121), two Gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coliMTCC 1652 andPseudomonas aeruginosaMTCC 741), and one yeast,Candida albicans, were used for the evaluation of antimicrobial activity of the newly synthesized compounds.
Low Rates of Lateral Gene Transfer among Metabolic Genes Define the Evolving Biogeochemical Niches of Archaea through Deep Time
Authors: Blank Carrine E.
Published: November 2012

Phylogenomic analyses of archaeal genome sequences are providing windows into the group’s evolutionary past, even though most archaeal taxa lack a conventional fossil record. Here, phylogenetic analyses were performed using key metabolic genes that define the metabolic niche of microorganisms. Such genes are generally considered to have undergone high rates of lateral gene transfer. Many gene sequences formed clades that were identical, or similar, to the tree constructed using large numbers of genes from the stable core of the genome. Surprisingly, such lateral transfer events were readily identified and quantifiable, occurring only a relatively small number of times in the archaeal domain of life. By placing gene acquisition events into a temporal framework, the rates by which new metabolic genes were acquired can be quantified. The highest lateral transfer rates were among cytochrome oxidase genes that use oxygen as a terminal electron acceptor (with a total of 12–14 lateral transfer events, or 3.4–4.0 events per billion years, across the entire archaeal domain). Genes involved in sulfur or nitrogen metabolism had much lower rates, on the order of one lateral transfer event per billion years. This suggests that lateral transfer rates of key metabolic proteins are rare and not rampant.
A Method for Extending the Bandwidth of Metamaterial Absorber
Authors: Lee Hong-Min , Lee Hyung-Sup
Published: November 2012

We present a method for extending the bandwidth of a metamaterial absorber (MMA) with multiresonance structure. The basic unit cell of the MMAs consists of a periodic arrangement of an electric-LC (ELC) resonator and a square loop structure. The absorption bandwidth of an MMA is effectively extended by combining five unit cell structures with different geometric dimensions into a coplanar unit cell. Experimental results show that the fabricated MMA is 0.8 mm (0.0026 λ0) thick with a peak absorption rate of 93% at 10 GHz and a full width at half maximum (FWHM) bandwidth of 970 MHz.
Clinical Features and Correlates of Outcomes for High-Risk, Marginalized Mothers and Newborn Infants Engaged with a Specialist Perinatal and Family Drug Health Service
Authors: Taylor Lee , Hutchinson Delyse , Rapee Ron , Burns Lucy , Stephens Christine , Haber Paul S.
Published: November 2012

Background. There is a paucity of research in Australia on the characteristics of women in treatment for illicit substance use in pregnancy and the health outcomes of their neonates.Aims. To determine the clinical features and outcomes of high-risk, marginalized women seeking treatment for illicit substance use in pregnancy and their neonates.Methods. 139 women with a history of substance abuse/dependence engaged with a perinatal drug health service in Sydney, Australia. Maternal (demographic, drug use, psychological, physical, obstetric, and antenatal care) and neonatal characteristics (delivery, early health outcomes) were examined.Results. Compared to national figures, pregnant women attending a specialist perinatal and family drug health service were more likely to report being Australian born, Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander, younger, unemployed, and multiparous. Opiates were the primary drug of concern (81.3%). Pregnancy complications were common (61.9%). Neonates were more likely to be preterm, have low birth weight, and be admitted to special care nursery. NAS was the most prevalent birth complication (69.8%) and almost half required pharmacotherapy.Conclusion. Mother-infant dyads affected by substance use in pregnancy are at significant risk. There is a need to review clinical models of care and examine the longer-term impacts on infant development.
Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of Novel 5,7‐Dichloro‐1,3‐benzoxazole Derivatives
Authors: Jayanna N. D. , Vagdevi H. M. , Dharshan J. C. , Prashith Kekuda T. R. , Hanumanthappa B. C. , Gowdarshivannanavar B. C.
Published: November 2012

A new class of 5,7‐dichloro‐1,3‐benzoxazole derivatives 4–11 were synthesized by fusing 5,7‐dichloro‐2‐hydrazino‐1,3‐benzoxazole 3 nucleus with aliphatic acids, active methylene compounds, and with selected esters to form heterocyclic ring systems like 1,2,4‐triazoles, pyrazoles, and triazine moieties. The compound 3 on diazotization reaction affords the tetrazole compound. The synthesized compounds were characterized by 1H NMR, IR, Mass, and 13C NMR spectral data and screened for cytotoxic, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and antilipase activities. The compounds 4, 5, and 8 have shown significant antimicrobial activities, whereas compounds 6 and 8 have been emerged as leading cytotoxic agents. The compounds 9, 10, and 11 were found to be strong enzyme inhibitors.
Denial and punishment in the North Caucasus
Authors: Toft Monica Duffy , Zhukov Yuri M
Published: November 2012

A growing literature on the subnational diffusion of armed conflict rests on the proposition that political violence triggers more violence, in the same locality and elsewhere. Yet state efforts to contain such uprisings remain largely unexplored, theoretically and empirically. Drawing on a mathematical model of epidemics, we formalize the logic of conflict diffusion and derive conditions under which state coercion might limit the spread of insurgent violence. Using a new dataset of insurgent and government violence in Russia’s North Caucasus from 2000 to 2008, we evaluate the relative effectiveness of four coercive strategies: (1) denial, which manipulates the costs of expanding insurgent activity to new locations, (2) punishment, which manipulates the costs of sustained fighting in contested areas, (3) denial and punishment, which does both, and (4) no action, which does neither. We find denial to be most effective at containing insurgent violence. Punishment is least effective, and even counterproductive. Not only does such a strategy fail to prevent the spillover of violence to new locations, but it may amplify the risk of continued fighting in contested areas. In the Caucasus, denial is found to be the least inflammatory counter-insurgency option for Russia. For it to succeed, Russia should physically isolate centers of insurgent activity from regions of nonviolence and avoid the temptation of punitive reprisals.
Well-being Disparities within the Paris Region: A Capabilist Spatialised Outlook
Authors: Tovar Elisabeth , Bourdeau-Lepage Lise
Published: November 2012

This paper advocates, from a normative point of view, the use of multidimensional, capabilist-based urban indicators and shows that they can shed a new empirical light on socio-spatial differentiation in cities. First, the relevance is discussed of Amartya Sen’s capability approach when assessing well-being from an urban, spatialised point of view, and a definition is proposed of a capabilist spatialised well-being indicator (CaS). After presenting the main methodological issues of its operationalisation, an example is presented of an empirical specification based on French data for the Paris region. It is shown that using CaS, instead of more traditional, income-based measures, helps to uncover interesting trends in socio-spatial differentiation in the Paris Region between 1999 and 2006. In particular, even if there was a well-being ‘catching up’ phenomenon between municipalities, a cluster of the least-advantaged municipalities in the Paris region seems to be drifting away in terms of well-being.
Two of a Kind: Twin Language in the Hebrew Bible
Authors: Vermeulen Karolien
Published: November 2012

This article seeks to understand the relation between form and content of biblical passages, focusing especially on the word ‭םימאות‬, ‘twins’. First, the six attestations of the word occur in pairs in the books of Genesis, Exodus and the Song of Songs. Second, they are highlighted through linguistic devices that in themselves have affinity with duality: geminates, alliteration and (numerical) paronomasia. Moreover, the number ‘two’ occurs in all texts and is evoked through the use of its homophone ‭ינש‬, ‘scarlet’, and through duplication of words. Thus, it is suggested that the language of biblical passages including the ‘twin’ word exteriorizes and emphasizes the twin concept by means of devices that mimic the twinning formally.
“Learning the Good With the Bad”
Authors: Klenowski Paul M.
Published: November 2012

Occupational white-collar offenders are individuals who commit their offenses while in a position of trust and fiduciary responsibility within the respective company. Much has been written about their motivations and actual offenses; however, minimal empirical progress has been made determining whether the presence of an actual learning process exists that may inspire, encourage, or entice an individual to commit such crimes. Moreover, the research narrows further when attempting to determine whether a set of linguistic phrases that allows individuals to justify their crimes prior to commission may also be learned. Thus, the aim of this project was to understand the learning process behind occupational offenses, more specifically, do those we associate with provide neutralizations that may allow us to commit an occupational crime? To answer this question, 40 federally incarcerated occupational white-collar offenders were queried using semistructured one-on-one interviews. The results indicate that there is some empirical support for the notion that neutralizing language may in fact be learned from certain groups that we interact with both on and off the job. These findings suggest that further empirical investigation is warranted.
The Frontal Assessment Battery in the Differential Diagnosis of Dementia
Authors: Boban Marina , Malojčić Branko , Mimica Ninoslav , Vuković Sunčica , Zrilić Ivan
Published: November 2012

Aim:

The Frontal Assessment Battery (FAB) has been used in different clinical settings as a valuable quick bedside test for executive dysfunction. The aim of the study was to evaluate clinical utility of the FAB for differential diagnosis of Alzheimer disease (AD), subcortical vascular cognitive impairment (scVCI), and frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD).

Methods:

Scores of the total FAB test and subtests were compared between consecutive series of 37 patients with AD, 31 patients with scVCI, 13 patients with FTLD, and 29 cognitively healthy individuals.

Results:

There was no statistically significant difference in the total FAB scores among the groups of patients with dementia. When comparing subtest scores, patients with FTLD had significantly lower scores on the lexical fluency subtest compared to the patients with AD ( P < .001) or scVCI ( P < .001); patients with scVCI had significantly lower scores on the motor series subtest compared to patients with FTLD ( P = .02) and AD ( P = .035) and on conflicting instructions subtest compared to patients with AD ( P = .033).

Conclusion:

Some FAB subtests might enhance diagnostic accuracy taking into account clinical history and other tests of executive function.
Fatigue life predictions of rubber components: Applications to an automobile cradle mount
Authors: Zarrin-ghalami Touhid , Fatemi Ali
Published: November 2012

Rubber components have broad applications in industry and they often operate under cyclic loading conditions. Therefore, fatigue analysis is an essential part of the failure analysis and life prediction of such components. In this paper a fatigue life prediction methodology for rubber components is developed, which is then verified by means of the analysis and testing of an automobile cradle mount made of filled natural rubber. The analysis conducted includes constitutive behavior representation of the material, finite element analysis of the component, and a fatigue damage parameter for life predictions. Both the fatigue crack initiation life prediction approach and the crack-growth-based life prediction approach were used. Test results are shown to be in reasonable agreement with the predicted fatigue lives for both the crack initiation approach and the crack growth approach.
Piezoelectric energy harvesting for tyre pressure measurement applications
Authors: Mak Kuok H , McWilliam Stewart , Popov Atanas A
Published: November 2012

Piezoelectric energy harvesters have been proposed as a means of supplying electrical power to remote tyre pressure monitoring systems. This solution avoids problems of battery replacement and allows the tyre pressure monitoring system to be self-powered. In this paper, a previously developed theoretical model is used to predict the electric output and mechanical responses of a cantilever beam energy harvester embedded within a car tyre. The radial deformation of the tyre is considered to provide base excitation to the energy harvester, and a bump stop is incorporated into the harvester design to limit the vibration amplitude and maintain the structural integrity of the harvester. The simulation results show that the harvester achieves maximum power output, with or without the stop, when the harvester location coincides with the tyre contact patch. It is also found that the average power output is reduced when a bump stop is used, but the bending stress in the cantilever reduces significantly as the displacement of the beam is limited. A comparison with published experimental results indicates good levels of agreement. The model developed can be used as a design tool to optimize the performance of energy harvesters in tyre applications, where a compromise between power generation and structural integrity is required.
Investigation on effects of reciprocating extrusion process on microstructure of AA 6061 based composites
Authors: Karamış M B , Erturun V , Sarı F N
Published: November 2012

The reciprocating extrusion (RE) method was developed to fabricate the fine grain AA 6061 and AA 6063 alloys and to obtain their optimum mechanical properties. While 6061/72 μm aluminium alloy powder and AA 6063 bar material were used as a matrix material separately, SiC/20 μm ceramic particles were used as reinforcement. Billets were produced from AA 6061 powders and AA 6063 materials mixed with SiC ceramic particles by sintering and stir casting method respectively. Using the RE process, which was performed at 573 K for one, five and nine passes, the billets were extruded again to investigate the microcharacterisation of the products. The hardness, microstructure, grain size and distribution of the extruded samples were examined and analysed using an SEM. High resolution electron backscatter diffraction and TEM methods were also applied for grain analysis. The manufacturing method of the billets to be extruded reciprocatively affects the hardness that occurs after the deformation. The hardnesses of all samples increase first and then decrease with pass number. After extrusion passes, the longer or larger silicon particles were broken into finer particles and microstructures were changed from the initial to a new structure. A homogeneous distribution of SiCp and refined grain structure of the test materials were obtained by RE. However, the process temperature applied during the process has a greater effect on the change in grain size than that of the occurring deformation.
Study on incipient melting in cast Ni base IN939 superalloy during solution annealing and its effect on hot workability
Authors: Jahangiri M R , Boutorabi S M A , Arabi H
Published: November 2012

Incipient melting of IN939 superalloy was investigated during solution annealing. In addition, the effect of this phenomenon was studied on hot workability of the alloy. The incipient melting was detected to be within the temperature range 1150–1160°C, which has been reported to be the standard temperature range of solution annealing of this material. The local melted regions were enriched in Zr, Nb and B elements, which appeared in the form of three different phases. The results also showed that even small amounts of local melted regions impair hot workability of the alloy. The use of long time solution annealing at 1150°C or a two-step solution heat treatment has been recommended to delay the incipient melting of the alloy. These treatments enhance hot workability of the alloy.
Nuclear genomic control of naturally occurring variation in mitochondrial function in Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Jumbo-Lucioni Patricia , Bu Su , Harbison Susan T , Slaughter Juanita C , Mackay Trudy FC , Moellering Douglas R , De Luca Maria
Published: November 2012

Background

Mitochondria are organelles found in nearly all eukaryotic cells that play a crucial role in cellular survival and function. Mitochondrial function is under the control of nuclear and mitochondrial genomes. While the latter has been the focus of most genetic research, we remain largely ignorant about the nuclear-encoded genomic control of inter-individual variability in mitochondrial function. Here, we usedDrosophila melanogasteras our model organism to address this question.

Results

We quantified mitochondrial state 3 and state 4 respiration rates and P:O ratio in mitochondria isolated from the thoraces of 40 sequenced inbred lines of the Drosophila Genetic Reference Panel. We found significant within-population genetic variability for all mitochondrial traits. Hence, we performed genome-wide association mapping and identified 141 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with differences in mitochondrial respiration and efficiency (P≤1 × 10-5). Gene-centered regression models showed that 2–3 SNPs can explain 31, 13, and 18% of the phenotypic variation in state 3, state 4, and P:O ratio, respectively. Most of the genes tagged by the SNPs are involved in organ development, second messenger-mediated signaling pathways, and cytoskeleton remodeling. One of these genes,sallimus(sls), encodes a component of the muscle sarcomere. We confirmed the direct effect ofslson mitochondrial respiration using two viable mutants and their coisogenic wild-type strain. Furthermore, correlation network analysis revealed thatslsfunctions as a transcriptional hub in a co-regulated module associated with mitochondrial respiration and is connected toCG7834, which is predicted to encode a protein with mitochondrial electron transfer flavoprotein activity. This latter finding was also verified in theslsmutants.

Conclusions

Our results provide novel insights into the genetic factors regulating natural variation in mitochondrial function inD. melanogaster. The integrative genomic approach used in our study allowed us to identifyslsas a novel hub gene responsible for the regulation of mitochondrial respiration in muscle sarcomere and to provide evidence thatslsmight act via the electron transfer flavoprotein/ubiquinone oxidoreductase complex.
The retention of health human resources in primary healthcare centers in Lebanon: a national survey
Authors: Alameddine Mohamad , Saleh Shadi , El-Jardali Fadi , Dimassi Hani , Mourad Yara
Published: November 2012

Background

Critical shortages of health human resources (HHR), associated with high turnover rates, have been a concern in many countries around the globe. Of particular interest is the effect of such a trend on the primary healthcare (PHC) sector; considered a cornerstone in any effective healthcare system. This study is a rare attempt to investigate PHC HHR work characteristics, level of burnout and likelihood to quit as well as the factors significantly associated with staff retention at PHC centers in Lebanon.

Methods

A cross-sectional design was utilized to survey all health providers at 81 PHC centers dispersed in all districts of Lebanon. The questionnaire consisted of four sections: socio-demographic/ professional background, organizational/institutional characteristics, likelihood to quit and level of professional burnout (using the Maslach-Burnout Inventory). A total of 755 providers completed the questionnaire (60.5% response rate). Bivariate analyses and multinomial logistic regression were used to determine factors associated with likelihood to quit.

Results

Two out of five respondents indicated likelihood to quit their jobs within the next 1–3 years and an additional 13.4% were not sure about quitting. The top three reasons behind likelihood to quit were poor salary (54.4%), better job opportunities outside the country (35.1%) and lack of professional development (33.7%). A U-shaped relationship was observed between age and likelihood to quit. Regression analysis revealed that high levels of burnout, lower level of education and low tenure were all associated with increased likelihood to quit.

Conclusions

The study findings reflect an unstable workforce and are not conducive to supporting an expanded role for PHC in the Lebanese healthcare system. While strategies aiming at improving staff retention would be important to develop and implement for all PHC HHR; targeted retention initiatives should focus on the young-new recruits and allied health professionals. Particular attention should be dedicated to enhancing providers’ role satisfaction and sense of job security. Such initiatives are of pivotal importance to stabilize the workforce and ensure its longevity.
Validation of an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for the quantification of human IgG directed against the repeat region of the circumsporozoite protein of the parasite Plasmodium falciparum
Authors: Clement Frederic , Dewar Vincent , Van Braeckel Eva , Desombere Isabelle , Dewerchin Marianne , Swysen Christine , Demoitié Marie-Ange , Jongert Erik , Cohen Joe , Leroux-Roels Geert , Cambron Pierre
Published: November 2012

Background

Several pre-erythrocytic malaria vaccines based on the circumsporozoite protein (CSP) antigen ofPlasmodium falciparumare in clinical development. Vaccine immunogenicity is commonly evaluated by the determination of anti-CSP antibody levels using IgG-based assays, but no standard assay is available to allow comparison of the different vaccines.

Methods

The validation of an anti-CSP repeat region enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) is described. This assay is based on the binding of serum antibodies to R32LR, a recombinant protein composed of the repeat region ofP. falciparumCSP. In addition to the original recombinant R32LR, an easy to purify recombinant His-tagged R32LR protein has been constructed to be used as solid phase antigen in the assay. Also, hybridoma cell lines have been generated producing human anti-R32LR monoclonal antibodies to be used as a potential inexhaustible source of anti-CSP repeats standard, instead of a reference serum.

Results

The anti-CSP repeats ELISA was shown to be robust, specific and linear within the analytical range, and adequately fulfilled all validation criteria as defined in the ICH guidelines. Furthermore, the coefficient of variation for repeatability and intermediate precision did not exceed 23%. Non-interference was demonstrated for R32LR-binding sera, and the assay was shown to be stable over time.

Conclusions

This ELISA, specific for antibodies directed against the CSP repeat region, can be used as a standard assay for the determination of humoral immunogenicity in the development of any CSP-basedP. falciparummalaria vaccine.
Near-infrared quantum cutting in Ho3+, Yb3+-codoped BaGdF5 nanoparticles via first-and second-order energy transfers
Authors: Guo Linna , Wang Yuhua , Zhang Jia , Wang Yanzhao , Dong Pengyu
Published: November 2012

Infrared quantum cutting involving Yb3+ 950–1,000 nm (2 F5/2 → 2 F7/2) and Ho3+ 1,007 nm (5S2,5F4 → 5I6) as well as 1,180 nm (5I6 → 5I8) emissions is achieved in BaGdF5: Ho3+, Yb3+ nanoparticles which are synthesized by a facile hydrothermal route. The mechanisms through first- and second-order energy transfers were analyzed by the dependence of Yb3+ doping concentration on the visible and infrared emissions, decay lifetime curves of the 5 F5 → 5I8, 5S2/5F4 → 5I8, and 5 F3 → 5I8 of Ho3+, in which a back energy transfer from Yb3+ to Ho3+ is first proposed to interpret the spectral characteristics. A modified calculation equation for quantum efficiency of Yb3+-Ho3+ couple by exciting at 450 nm was presented according to the quantum cutting mechanism. Overall, the excellent luminescence properties of BaGdF5: Ho3+, Yb3+ near-infrared quantum cutting nanoparticles could explore an interesting approach to maximize the performance of solar cells.
Statistical analysis of immuno-functionalized tumor-cell behaviors on nanopatterned substrates
Authors: Kim Dong-Joo , Lee Geehee , Kim Gil-Sung , Lee Sang-Kwon
Published: November 2012

Laser scanning cytometry has been proven as a powerful technology for high-content, high-throughput quantitative analysis of cellular functions in a fully automated manner. It utilizes a large-area fluorescence imaging scheme and rigorous image quantitation algorithms to enable informative analysis of cell samples attached to solid substrates. While this technology represents a powerful approach for high-content screening using cell lines, it has not been applied to the study of tumor-cell behaviors on these solid nanopatterned substrates after several hours of incubation. Herein, we statistically demonstrated functional cellular morphology information, including size, shape, and distribution of the captured cells after 0.5 to 45 h of incubation on nanopatterned substrates, such as silicon nanowires and quartz nanopillars, along with planar glass substrates. With increasing incubation time up to 45 h, we observed that the nanopatterned substrates could have not only increased adhesion and traction forces between cells and nanopatterned substrates, but also limited cell spreading on the substrates compared to the planar glass substrates. On the basis of our results, we suggest that the most important factors to influence the cell behaviors on the three solid substrates are the degree of dimension on cell behaviors and cell traction force.
Defective lysosomal proteolysis and axonal transport are early pathogenic events that worsen with age leading to increased APP metabolism and synaptic Abeta in transgenic APP/PS1 hippocampus
Authors: Torres Manuel , Jimenez Sebastian , Sanchez-Varo Raquel , Navarro Victoria , Trujillo-Estrada Laura , Sanchez-Mejias Elisabeth , Carmona Irene , Davila Jose Carlos , Vizuete Marisa , Gutierrez Antonia , Vitorica Javier
Published: November 2012

Background

Axonal pathology might constitute one of the earliest manifestations of Alzheimer disease. Axonal dystrophies were observed in Alzheimer’s patients and transgenic models at early ages. These axonal dystrophies could reflect the disruption of axonal transport and the accumulation of multiple vesicles at local points. It has been also proposed that dystrophies might interfere with normal intracellular proteolysis. In this work, we have investigated the progression of the hippocampal pathology and the possible implication in Abeta production in young (6 months) and aged (18 months) PS1(M146L)/APP(751sl) transgenic mice.

Results

Our data demonstrated the existence of a progressive, age-dependent, formation of axonal dystrophies, mainly located in contact with congophilic Abeta deposition, which exhibited tau and neurofilament hyperphosphorylation. This progressive pathology was paralleled with decreased expression of the motor proteins kinesin and dynein. Furthermore, we also observed an early decrease in the activity of cathepsins B and D, progressing to a deep inhibition of these lysosomal proteases at late ages. This lysosomal impairment could be responsible for the accumulation of LC3-II and ubiquitinated proteins within axonal dystrophies. We have also investigated the repercussion of these deficiencies on the APP metabolism. Our data demonstrated the existence of an increase in the amyloidogenic pathway, which was reflected by the accumulation of hAPPfl, C99 fragment, intracellular Abeta in parallel with an increase in BACE and gamma-secretase activities. In vitro experiments, using APPswe transfected N2a cells, demonstrated that any imbalance on the proteolytic systems reproduced the in vivo alterations in APP metabolism. Finally, our data also demonstrated that Abeta peptides were preferentially accumulated in isolated synaptosomes.

Conclusion

A progressive age-dependent cytoskeletal pathology along with a reduction of lysosomal and, in minor extent, proteasomal activity could be directly implicated in the progressive accumulation of APP derived fragments (and Abeta peptides) in parallel with the increase of BACE-1 and gamma-secretase activities. This retard in the APP metabolism seemed to be directly implicated in the synaptic Abeta accumulation and, in consequence, in the pathology progression between synaptically connected regions.
TIGRESS: Trustful Inference of Gene REgulation using Stability Selection
Authors: Haury Anne-Claire , Mordelet Fantine , Vera-Licona Paola , Vert Jean-Philippe
Published: November 2012

Background

Inferring the structure of gene regulatory networks (GRN) from a collection of gene expression data has many potential applications, from the elucidation of complex biological processes to the identification of potential drug targets. It is however a notoriously difficult problem, for which the many existing methods reach limited accuracy.

Results

In this paper, we formulate GRN inference as a sparse regression problem and investigate the performance of a popular feature selection method, least angle regression (LARS) combined with stability selection, for that purpose. We introduce a novel, robust and accurate scoring technique for stability selection, which improves the performance of feature selection with LARS. The resulting method, which we call TIGRESS (for Trustful Inference of Gene REgulation with Stability Selection), was ranked among the top GRN inference methods in the DREAM5 gene network inference challenge. In particular, TIGRESS was evaluated to be the best linear regression-based method in the challenge. We investigate in depth the influence of the various parameters of the method, and show that a fine parameter tuning can lead to significant improvements and state-of-the-art performance for GRN inference, in both directed and undirected settings.

Conclusions

TIGRESS reaches state-of-the-art performance on benchmark data, including bothin silicoandin vivo(E. coliandS. cerevisiae) networks. This study confirms the potential of feature selection techniques for GRN inference. Code and data are available onhttp://cbio.ensmp.fr/tigress. Moreover, TIGRESS can be run online through the GenePattern platform (GP-DREAM,http://dream.broadinstitute.org).
Rapid resolution of an acute subdural hematoma by increasing the shunt valve pressure in a 63-year-old man with normal-pressure hydrocephalus with a ventriculoperitoneal shunt: a case report and literature review
Authors: Hayes Jackson , Roguski Marie , Riesenburger Ron I
Published: November 2012

Introduction

Symptomatic subdural hematoma development is a constant concern for patients who have undergone cerebrospinal fluid shunting procedures to relieve symptoms related to normal-pressure hydrocephalus. Acute subdural hematomas are of particular concern in these patients as even minor head trauma may result in subdural hematoma formation. The presence of a ventricular shunt facilitates further expansion of the subdural hematoma and often necessitates surgical treatment, including subdural hematoma evacuation and shunt ligation.

Case presentation

We present the case of a 63-year-old North American Caucasian man with normal-pressure hydrocephalus with an adjustable valve ventriculoperitoneal shunt who developed an acute subdural hematoma after sustaining head trauma. Conservative treatment was favored over operative evacuation because our patient was neurologically intact, but simple observation was considered to be too high risk in the setting of a low-pressure ventriculoperitoneal shunt. Thus, the valve setting on the ventriculoperitoneal shunt was increased to its maximum pressure setting in order to reduce flow through the shunt and to mildly increase intracranial pressure in an attempt to tamponade any active bleeding and limit hematoma expansion. A repeat computed tomography scan of the head six days after the valve adjustment revealed complete resolution of the acute subdural hematoma. At this time, the valve pressure was reduced to its original setting to treat symptoms of normal-pressure hydrocephalus.

Conclusions

Programmable shunt valves afford the option for non-operative management of acute subdural hematoma in patients with ventricular shunts for normal-pressure hydrocephalus. As illustrated in this case report, increasing the shunt valve pressure may result in rapid resolution of the acute subdural hematoma in some patients.
Stability of the splay state in networks of pulse-coupled neurons
Authors: Olmi Simona , Politi Antonio , Torcini Alessandro
Published: November 2012

We analytically investigate the stability of splay states in the networks of N globally pulse-coupled phase-like models of neurons. We develop a perturbative technique which allows determining the Floquet exponents for a generic velocity field and implement the method for a given pulse shape. We find that in the case of discontinuous velocity fields, the Floquet spectrum scales as

1
/

N
2

and the stability is determined by the sign of the jump at the discontinuity. Altogether, the form of the spectrum depends on the pulse shape, but it is independent of the velocity field.

PACS:05.45.Xt, 84.35.+i, 87.19.lj.
Examination of sample preparation methods for the laser grain size analysis of soils with high organic matter content
Authors: Madarász Balázs , Jakab Gergely , Szalai Zoltán , Juhos Katalin
Published: November 2012

Talajok szemcseösszetételének vizsgálata előtt nélkülözhetetlen a talajban található eltérő tulajdonságú kötőanyagok feloldása, roncsolása, mivel ezeknek fontos szerepe van a mikro- és makroaggregátumok kialakításában. Ennek hiányában jelentős mennyiségű agyagszemcse marad aggregátumokban, a szemcseösszetételt, agyagtartalmat jelentősen módosítva. Jelen tanulmányban az egyik leggyakoribb ragasztóanyagnak, a talajok humusztartalmának a hatását vizsgáltuk. A statisztikai analízis eredménye szerint a humuszt bontó hidrogén-peroxidos kezelésekkel – a kontrollként használt, humusz nélküli folyóvízi homok kivételével – szignifikánsan nagyobb agyagtartalmat mérünk, mint a MSz szerinti Na-pirofoszfátos kezeléssel. A hidrogén-peroxidos előkészítéssel a talajminták szemcseösszetételének varianciája lényegesen kisebb, mint más kezeléseké, vagyis az intenzívebb előkészítő eljárásokkal a minták szemcseméret eredményeinek különbsége csökken. Az előkészítő eljárások különbségének az okát keresve a talajok humusz- és agyagtartalmának korrelációját elemeztük. A humusz az agyagtartalommal gyengén korrelált. Az 1–5. kezelésekkel kapott agyag- és a talaj humusztartalma között negatív, míg a hidrogén-peroxidos kezelések esetén gyenge pozitív kapcsolatot mutattunk ki. Az ultrahangos kezelések kiemelt jelentőségűek az előkészítésekben, de az agyagtartalomban szignifikáns különbség csak a hidro-gén-peroxidos kezelések esetén mutatható ki. Vizsgálataink megmutatták a talajminták szemcseméret elemzése előkészítésének, az ásványi szemcsék dezaggregálásának fontosságát, valamint azt, hogy a dezaggregálás elégtelensége jelentősen kisebb agyagtartalmat eredményez. Talajok szemcseméret meghatározásában, de különösen a jelentősebb szervesanyag-tartalmú talajokéban a hidrogén-peroxidos előkészítő eljárás használandó. A Na-pirofoszfátnak és az ultrahangos kezelésnek a talajminta diszpergálásában van nagy jelentősége. Szükségesnek tartjuk ezért a hazai talaj szemcseméret-elemzés szabványát (szabványait) felülvizsgálni, továbbá az európai szemcseméret-elemzési eljárások tapasztalatainak megismerését és beépítését a hazai szemcseméret analitikai gyakorlatba.
Comparative study of sustainable drainage systems
Authors: Hubert Jonathan , Edwards Thomas , Jahromi Ali Bahadori
Published: November 2012

The use of sustainable drainage systems (Suds) forms an important part of the requirement to conserve natural resources in an age of ever-increasing consumption. This paper explores the options available in the design of drainage systems, by virtue of a project to design two systems for a greenfield site with office and car parking. One design is a conventional piped setup and the other is a ‘sustainable’ drainage system. The design approach is not biased towards the conventional or sustainable system, but aims to seek out best practice in terms of economics and simplicity of design for each type. This computer-based software simulation study of the two drainage systems includes an introduction to Suds, with a description of the principles and techniques involved. There is further information on who is driving the requirements for implementation and the methods used to do so. This background will then inform the comparative study of drainage system designs.
Uplift of shallowly buried pipe sections in saturated very loose sand
Authors: BYRNE B.W. , SCHUPP J. , MARTIN C.M. , MACONOCHIE A. , OLIPHANT J. , CATHIE D.
Published: November 2012

Offshore pipelines are often buried to protect them from damage, and to provide additional thermal insulation. In sandy soils the pipes are trenched using jet-trenching or ploughing. In both cases the nature of the trenching operation means that the backfill material can be placed over the pipe in an extremely loose state. If the pipe then undergoes a small displacement or vibration, liquefaction of the backfill material may occur, and the resistance to upward movement of the pipe can be reduced. To explore this experimentally, an instrumented model pipe section was pulled vertically upwards at different rates in very loose, saturated, fine, uniform sand (representative of a North Sea sand). The instrumentation allowed for the measurement of the force on the pipe section as well as the excess pore water pressure regime around the pipe. The results show that, for sand at a relative density of zero, there is a reduction of capacity at the faster uplift rates. A simple analytical model, using the vertical slip model (for uplift resistance) modified to account for the development and dissipation of excess pore water pressures around the pipe, is used to predict the results from the experiments. Implications for the design of buried offshore pipelines in sand are discussed.
Combinatorial bases of modules for affine Lie algebra B
2(1)
Authors: Primc Mirko
Published: November 2012

We construct bases of standard (i.e. integrable highest weight) modules L(Λ) for affine Lie algebra of type B
2(1) consisting of semi-infinite monomials. The main technical ingredient is a construction of monomial bases for Feigin-Stoyanovsky type subspaces W(Λ) of L(Λ) by using simple currents and intertwining operators in vertex operator algebra theory. By coincidence W(kΛ0) for B
2(1) and the integrable highest weight module L(kΛ0) for A
1(1) have the same parametrization of combinatorial bases and the same presentation P/I.
Effect of thermal annealing in air on scintillation properties of LuAG and LuAG:Pr
Authors: Brylew Kamil , Drozdowski Winicjusz , Witkowski Marcin , Kamada Kei , Yanagida Takayuki , Yoshikawa Akira
Published: November 2012

Pure and Pr-activated Lu3Al5O12 (LuAG) crystals have been grown by the Czochralski method. In order to improve the scintillation properties, several samples have been annealed in air. Various annealing temperatures and periods of time have been tested to determine optimal conditions in the way of scintillation yield and energy resolution enhancement. The largest increase of yield of LuAG:Pr (17%), accompanied by a distinct decrease of resolution, has been observed after annealing at 1100°C for 48 h. On the contrary, in case of undoped LuAG no significant changes following thermal annealing have been noticed.
Zooplankton communities of inter-connected sections of lower River Oder (NW Poland)
Authors: Czerniawski Robert , Pilecka-Rapacz Małgorzata , Domagała Józef
Published: November 2012

The aim of this study was the determination and comparative analysis of the zooplankton communities between the inter-connected sections of the lower Oder river in relation to physicochemical factors. The study was performed at five sites of Oder. Two sites were localized in the main channel of Oder (East Oder), other sites were localized in the west arm of Oder and at the beginning of the canal carrying the post-cooling water from the power plant, and the last site was below at the shallow channel joining the Western Oder with the Eastern Oder. At the channel site in which the two arms of the river are connected a significantly higher taxa number, abundance and biomass of crustaceans was observed than at the other sites. The taxonomic similarity index between all sites was at a rather low level. The Pearson’s coefficient, multiple regression analysis and CCA showed that temperature, conductivity and content of nitrates had the strongest impact on the abundance of zooplankton. Thus, in lower, slowly flowing section of River Oder the physico-chemical variables influenced zooplankton density. Post-cooling water from the power plant influenced the zooplankton communities only in the channel discharging the waters into the river, while its influence on the zooplankton in the Oder is insignificant.
Preparation, structural characterisation, and magnetic properties of [Cu(men)2][Cu2Cd2Cl2(CN)6] (men = N-methylethane-1,2-diamine)
Authors: Kuchár Juraj , Černák Juraj
Published: November 2012

The novel complex [Cu(men)2][Cu2Cd2Cl2(CN)6] (I) was isolated from the aqueous-ethanol system containing CuCl2, men (men = N-methylethane-1,2-diamine) and K2[Cd(CN)4] in the presence of dilute hydrochloric acid and chemically and spectroscopically characterised. The crystal structure of I consists of [Cu2I(CN)6] and [Cd2Cl2(CN)6] building units bridged by cyanide ligands and forms a three-dimensional skeleton with cavities. [Cu(men)2]2+ cations in which two men ligands are chelated (mean Cu-N is 2.033(6) Å) are located in the cavities. The coordination polyhedron around the Cu(II) atoms is formed as a tetragonal bipyramidal by two weaker axial Cu-Cl bonds (2.8642(12) Å) with chlorido ligands from the skeleton. The Cu(I) and Cd(II) atoms in the skeleton exhibit tetra-(CuC4 chromophore) and penta-coordination (CdN3Cl2), respectively. The temperature-dependent susceptibility measurements indicate a Curie-Weiss-like behaviour and the presence of weak anti-ferromagnetic interaction.
Synthesis and reaction process of β-Si3N4 by means of carbothermal nitridation of serpentine
Authors: Duan Hongjuan , Zhu Hongxi , Deng Chengji , Yuan Wenjie , Li Jun
Published: November 2012

The reaction process of carbothermal nitridation synthesis of β-Si3N4 from serpentine is investigated in this paper. Samples with different molar ratios of carbon black to serpentine were calcined under nitrogen atmosphere at 1300 °C, 1400 °C and 1500 °C for 3 hrs. The phase composition and microstructure of the synthesized powders were determined using X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. The reaction process was analyzed by means of differential thermal analysis. The results show that the main reaction was that forsterite from serpentine reacted with carbon black to form SiO, Mg vapor and CO, then SiO and N2 generated β-Si3N4. Fine β-Si3N4 powders were produced under nitrogen atmosphere at 1500 °C when the carbon black/serpentine molar ratio was 6.0. The synthesized β-Si3N4 powders had uniform grain size and high β-Si3N4 content.
Dietary Patterns of Patients: With Advanced Lung or Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Prado Carla M. M. , Lieffers Jessica R. , Bergsten Gabriella , Mourtzakis Marina , Baracos Vickie E. , Reiman Tony , Sawyer Michael B. , McCargar Linda J.
Published: November 2012

The purpose of this study was to identify dietary patterns among patients with advanced cancer. Differences between cancer groups are described, and food groups contributing higher proportions to overall caloric intake are identified. Patients with advanced cancer (n=51) were recruited from a regional cancer centre and completed a three-day dietary record. Food items were categorized according to macronutrient content. After adjustment for body weight, substantial variation in energy intake was observed (range: 13.7 to 55.4 kcal/kg/day). For 49% of patients, protein intake was below recommendations. Overall, patients consumed the largest proportion of their calories from meat (16%), other foods (11%), dessert (9%), fruit (9%), white bread (7%), and milk (7%). Only 5% of patients consumed meal replacement supplements. The results of this descriptive study provide important insights into the dietary habits of patients with advanced cancer. These insights could be translated into the development of effective recommendations for maintaining or improving health and quality of life.
A Design Fuzzy Logic Controller for a Permanent Magnet Wind Generator to Enhance the Dynamic Stability of Wind Farms
Authors: Rosyadi Marwan , Muyeen S. M. , Takahashi Rion , Tamura Junji
Published: November 2012

In this paper, a design fuzzy logic controller for a variable speed permanent magnet wind generator connected to a grid system through a LC-filter is proposed. A new current control method of grid side conversion is developed by integrating the fuzzy controller, in which both active and reactive power, delivered to a power grid system, is controlled effectively. The fuzzy logic controller is designed to adjust the gain parameters of the PI controllers under any operating conditions, so that the dynamic stability is enhanced. A new simple method, based on frequency response of the bode diagram, is proposed in the design of the fuzzy logic controller. To evaluate the controller system capabilities, simulation analyses are performed on a small wind farm model system including an induction wind generator connected to an infinite bus. The simulations have been performed using PSCAD/EMTDC. Simulation results show that the proposed control scheme is more effective for enhancing the stability of wind farms during temporary and permanent network disturbances and randomly fluctuating wind speed, compared with that of a conventional PI controller.
A Comment on Qi et al.: An Estimation of Radiobiological Parameters for Head-and-Neck and the Clinical Implications. Cancers, 2012, 4, 566-580
Authors: Fowler Jack
Published: November 2012

Important results were shown as cell survival points in the two panels of the figure which is reproduced in this Comment letter. A curve was fitted assuming the mono-exponential recovery half-time of 17 ± 21 minutes. The wide error limits indicate that this fit is not very good, but the notable feature of both panels is that the last four points are clearly continuing to rise, above the “fitted” curve. This indicates that there is a second, slower, component of repair or recovery and this Comment explores constructively the implications of that additional discovery.