bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
On the Standardization of the Photocatalytic Gas/Solid Tests
Authors: Minero Claudio , Bedini Andrea , Minella Marco 
Published: May 2013

Abstract
The central problem for standardization of photocatalytic efficiency of whatever substrate on an illuminated catalyst is the rate evaluation. For gas/solid experiments different reactors, like batch or flow-through either continuous stirred-tank reactor (CSTR) or plug flow reactor (PFR), could be envisaged. The basic equations governing these reactors and the rate expression for them are presented here. Experiments show that a CSTR configuration presents a lot of advantages for practical use, as any volume, any shape of catalyst and any flow of gas into the reactor can possibly be used. A CSTR configuration is superior to the standardized PFR as the resistance to mass transfer can be reduced by inside forced ventilation. Consequently, it gives an evaluation of the photocatalytic rate more close to the actual surface one. The rate for CSTR at steady state must be calculated as r(Co) = Co F η/S(1−η), where η is the conversion.
Parallel-Connected Photovoltaic Inverters: Zero Frequency Sequence Harmonic Analysis and Solution
Authors: Carmeli Maria Stefania , Mauri Marco , Frosio Luisa , Bezzolato Alberto , Marchegiani Gabriele 
Published: May 2013

AbstractHigh-power photovoltaic (PV) plants are usually constituted of the connection of different PV subfields, each of them with its interface transformer. Different solutions have been studied to improve the efficiency of the whole generation system. In particular, transformerless configurations are the more attractive one from efficiency and costs point of view. This paper focuses on transformerless PV configurations characterised by the parallel connection of interface inverters. The problem of zero sequence current due to both the parallel connection and the presence of undesirable parasitic earth capacitances is considered and a solution, which consists of the synchronisation of pulse-width modulation triangular carrier, is proposed and theoretically analysed. The theoretical analysis has been validated through simulation and experimental results.
Microencapsulation of Banana Juice from Three Different Cultivars
Authors: Chávez-Rodríguez Arturo M. , Pérez-Martínez Jaime David , Ibarra-Junquera Vrani , Escalante-Minakata Pilar , VillaVelazquez-Mendoza Carlos Ignacio , Dibildox-Alvarado Elena , de Jesús Ornelas-Paz José 
Published: May 2013

Abstract
In order to effectively process and utilize surplus bananas and those without the quality for export, in this research it is proposed to microencapsulate the banana juice by means of spray drying and using maltodextrin as the covering material. Three cultivars Enano gigante (Musa AAA, subgroup Cavendish), and the tetraploids hybrids (AAAA), FHIA-17 and FHIA-23 were selected for this research. Being Enano gigante, the cultivar shows the highest glass transition temperature. The drying parameters were established, depending upon the ratio of juice/maltodextrin and the drying air temperature. The optimal drying air temperature was 220°C for the three cultivars with a 20% juice/maltodextrin ratio for both the Enano Gigante and the FHIA-23, while in the FHIA-17 there were no significant differences between the juice/maltodextrin ratios. The morphology and size distribution of the microcapsules were observed by a scanning electron microscopy. The number of particles is directly proportional to the temperature and inversely proportional to the juice/maltodextrin ratio. A Weibull particle size distribution was common to all treatments. There is a correlation between the principal components and clustering analyses with the optimization of the system. The principal components analysis considers three Weibull parameters (obtained from the particle size distribution) and the powders moisture percentage.
Agent-based models of language competition
Authors: Castelló Xavier , Loureiro-Porto Lucía , San Miguel Maxi 
Published: May 2013

AbstractThis article uses computer simulations as a means of assessing two different models for the competition between two languages from the interdisciplinary perspective of complex systems. These models allow for the analysis of the role of bilingual speakers and they consider two of the basic factors determining the use of each language: their relative prestige and the language loyalty of their speakers. Here we assess the effect of these parameters in different social networks, with the aim of contributing to the understanding of the role of bilingualism and social networks in processes of language contact. We first present a qualitative analysis based on a simulation tool that we have designed, in order to visualize the dynamics of the models. Secondly, we consider a qualitative analysis of the role of complex networks, identifying mechanisms for the rapid extinction of a language and for situations of language segregation. Finally, we present a quantitative analysis which shows, counter-intuitively, a transition from a final scenario of language maintenance to one of language shift as language loyalty increases. Other findings are: (i) that the scenario of language coexistence is reduced in the presence of bilingual agents; and (ii) that networks which allow for local effects reduce further the situations for which language maintenance is possible.
Correlation between social and linguistic parameters in modeling language contact: evidence from endangered Finnic varieties
Authors: Markus Elena , Rozhanskiy Fedor 
Published: May 2013

AbstractThis article discusses a case of language competition between two minority languages, Votic and Ingrian. We analyze the sociolinguistic situation in the contact area, and the contact-induced linguistic changes in both languages. Although the two languages had a very similar fate, and the same premises for language competition, Ingrian appears to have been more socially prestigious and was for a long period of time gradually replacing Votic. It is shown that the two languages chose different strategies for interaction. The Ingrians preserved their strong identity but transformed their language significantly, and thus achieved an easier understanding with their neighbors. On the other hand, the Votes were unwilling to adapt their language to contact influence, but shifted easily to their neighbors' identity. We suggest distinguishing between two types of volatility: social volatility, which describes the willingness of a nation to shift to a new language and identity; and linguistic volatility, which denotes the readiness of speakers to adopt innovations from a neighboring language. In minority vs. minority competition, the two types of volatility often demonstrate inverse tendencies: high volatility on the linguistic level corresponds to low volatility on the social level, and vice versa.
Testosterone promotes glucose intolerance, lipid disorder and oxidative stress in type 1 diabetic rats
Authors: Morakinyo Ayodele Olufemi , Adekunbi Daniel Abiodun , Dada Kayode Akanni , Adegoke Olufeyi Adefunke 
Published: May 2013

Abstract

Background: A bidirectional relationship has been established between testosterone deficiency (TD) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Low testosterone level has been reported to be a predisposing factor to T2DM, whereas recent clinical studies have shown a high prevalence of low testosterone in diabetic individuals. However, it is not known if any relationship exists between type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) and testosterone level. This study was designed to investigate the effects of TD on T1DM. Twenty-four Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into four groups designated as control, diabetic, orchiectomized and orchiectomized-diabetic.

Methods: Diabetes was induced with an intravenous injection of alloxan, and orchiectomy was done under sterile conditions. Fasting blood glucose (FBG), insulin level, lipid and oxidative parameters were determined in all experimental rats.

Results: The area under the curve during oral glucose tolerance test showed that the orchiectomized-diabetic group expressed an enhanced ability to metabolize glucose than the diabetic group. The malondialdehyde level in the diabetic group was significantly higher compared with that in the control and orchiectomized groups. Moreover, there was a significant decrease in glutathione (GSH) activity and an increase in superoxide dismutase activity in the diabetic group compared with control. Meanwhile, the activities of GSH and catalase were significantly reduced in the orchiectomized as well as the orchiectomized-diabetic group when compared with both control and diabetic groups.

Conclusions: These data indicate that TD attenuates glucose intolerance under diabetic conditions and is equally associated with a considerable reduction in oxidative stress, which implies that testosterone may be a pro-oxidant.
Multiscale unified prediction of size/scale and Hall-Petch effects in the mechanics of polycrystalline materials
Authors: Frantziskonis George N. 
Published: May 2013

AbstractMaterials show size effects in their strength, i.e., improved strength as size decreases. Size effects have been studied extensively at a wide range of scales, from atomistic to continuum. Size effects depend on the scale of reference, as the physics change with increasing or decreasing scale. The work reported herein concentrates at scales near the average grain size in polycrystalline solids, where they are examined in conjunction with Hall-Petch effects. It presents a process for isolating physical information on a problem at specific spatial or temporal scales and applies it to Hall-Petch and size effects in one spatial dimension, extendable to higher dimensions. Importantly, the scale-isolated information captures the interactions among scales. As material failure and Hall-Petch effects are highly stochastic, a probabilistic approach to the present work is more appropriate than a deterministic one.
The arginine stimulation test: timing of peak is not a helpful parameter in the diagnosis of growth hormone deficiency
Authors: Gillis David , Granat Nadav , Strich David 
Published: May 2013

Abstract

Background: A typical peak timing in the glucagon stimulation test has been reported as an indication of growth hormone (GH) deficiency. Other stimulation tests have not been evaluated.

Objective: To evaluate the clinical usefulness of peak timing in the arginine stimulation test (AST) for growth hormone deficiency.

Methods: Retrospective review of 199 ASTs from one center. Outcomes included correlation of peak times with (a) frequency of deficient peak; (b) growth velocity standard deviation scores (GVSDSs); (c) other evidence of pituitary pathology; (d) results of confirmatory clonidine test; and (e) response to GH treatment.

Results: The peak in 83/109 (76.14%) sufficient tests occurred at typical times vs. 45/72 (62.5%) deficient tests (p<0.05). GVSDS on GH treatment was greater among patients with typical timing in the AST compared with atypical timing (2.67±0.59 vs. 0.46±1.17, p=0.021). No other variable correlated significantly with AST timing.

Conclusions: Timing of peak in the AST is not a clinically useful parameter.
Effect of oxygen tension on bacteria-stimulated cytokine production by fetal membranes
Authors: Klimova Natalia G. , Hanna Nazeeh , Peltier Morgan R. 
Published: May 2013

Abstract

Aim: Tissue culture studies indicate that bacterial products stimulate the production of proinflammatory cytokines by reproductive tissues. However, most of these studies have been performed under room air conditions, supplemented with 5% CO2. In this study, we tested whether O2 tension affects bacteria-stimulated cytokine production by extra-placental fetal membranes.

Methods: Cultures of full-thickness membranes, isolated choriodecidua, and isolated amnion were exposed to bacteria and incubated under 21% (room air) or 5% O2 for 18 h. Cytokine concentrations in conditioned medium was quantified by immunoassay.

Results: Culture under 5% O2 increased production of interleukin (IL)-1β and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, but reduced IL-10 and IL-6 production by full membranes. Isolated choriodecidua responded to 5% O2 with increased IL-1β production and reduced IL-6 production, but had no effect on TNF-α and IL-10 production was not detected. No effect of O2 tension on IL-1β or IL-6 production by isolated amnion was detected, however, Escherichia coli-stimulated IL-10, TNF-α and IL-8 production was enhanced by culture under 5% O2.

Conclusions: Increased oxygen tension reduces the pro-inflammatory responsiveness of cell cultures to E. coli and promotes an anti-inflammatory cytokine profile. Differential effects of O2 tension on choriodecidua and amnion suggests a network of paracrine factors that regulate cytokine levels in response to changes in O2 tension.
The interaction between competition, learning, and habituation dynamics in speech perception
Authors: Lancia Leonardo , Winter Bodo 
Published: May 2013

AbstractEven though the outcome of the perception of phonological patterns is categorical, this process might still arise from continuous dynamics. Here, we propose a unified dynamical account of three types of behavior that are usually studied in isolation: short-term perceptual competition, long-term perceptual habituation, and even longer-term perceptual learning. We develop a model and test its predictions in two speech identification tasks on an acoustic continuum between the French words [sɛp] and [stɛp]. When presenting stimuli sequentially from one end of the continuum to the other, we found that the presentation order systematically changed the position of the perceptual switch from one word to the other. We also found that response times were slower and more variable around this perceptual switch, regardless of its position on the acoustic continuum. And, throughout the experiment, participants became more sensitive to small acoustic differences between stimuli. Our model can account for these results and for a surprising finding, namely that the initial presentation order affected responses even late in the experiment. Overall, our results point to the importance of the relation between fast processes responsible for competition, and slow processes responsible for habituation and learning in explaining how listeners can perceive speech categorically in a way that is both flexible and robust.
Preparing Teachers for Urban Students Who Have Been Labeled as Having Special Needs
Authors: Banks Tachelle , Obiakor Festus , Algozzine Bob 
Published: May 2013

Abstract
Preparing teachers to work in urban public schools – and to remain there – is a daunting challenge. In an age plagued with the overrepresentation of culturally and linguistically diverse (CLD) students placed in special education programs, it is important that teacher preparation programs within the field of special education devote attention to the devastating effects of deficit thinking. The current focus on the achievement gap and poor graduation rates has highlighted the challenges facing urban schools and their teachers in our nation. Many colleges and universities have ill-prepared or unprepared to work with CLD students in general and special education. This article discusses how teachers and service providers can be prepared to work with urban children and youth with and without special needs.
Expression of full-length human alkylglycerol monooxygenase and fragments in Escherichia coli
Authors: Mayer Matthias , Keller Markus A. , Watschinger Katrin , Werner-Felmayer Gabriele , Werner Ernst R. , Golderer Georg 
Published: May 2013

Abstract
Alkylglycerol monooxygenase (AGMO; EC 1.14.16.5) is the only enzyme known to cleave the O-alkyl ether bond of alkylglycerols in humans. It is an integral membrane protein with nine predicted transmembrane domains. We attempted to express and purify full-length and truncated forms of AGMO in Escherichia coli. Full-length AGMO could not be expressed in three different E. coli expression strains, three different expression vectors and several induction systems. We succeeded, however, in expression of three N-terminally strep-tagged truncated forms, named active sites 1, 2 and 3, with 205, 134 and 61 amino acids, respectively. Active site 1 fragment, containing two predicted transmembrane regions, a membrane associated region and all known amino acid residues important for catalytic activity, was not fully soluble even in 8 M urea. Active site 2 containing only one predicted membrane associated domain required 8 M urea for solubilisation and eluted in gel filtration in 1 M urea as a trimer. Active site 3 with no hydrophobic domain eluted in gel filtration in 1 M urea as monomer and dimer. These results show that even truncated forms of AGMO are barely soluble when expressed in E. coli and show a high tendency for aggregation.
Folate homeostasis of cancer cells affects sensitivity to not only antifolates but also other non-folate drugs: effect of MRP expression
Authors: Peters Godefridus J. , Kathmann Ietje , Lemos Clara , Hooijberg Jan Hendrik , Losekoot Nienke , Jansen Gerrit 
Published: May 2013

Abstract
Sensitivity to antifolates can be decreased by endogenous or exogenous folates. Leucovorin protects cancer patients against toxicity of the dihydrofolate reductase inhibitor methotrexate (MTX), while folic acid is used to protect rheumatoid arthritis patients against MTX. Folates and antifolates can be effluxed from the cell by ABC transporters multidrug resistance protein 1 (MRP1), 2 and 3. We previously demonstrated in 2008 ovarian cancer cells that MRP overexpression reduced cellular folate content by 40%, while folate depletion increased expression of MRP1. As MRPs mediate resistance to several unrelated drugs, we investigated whether folate status would affect sensitivity to doxorubicin, daunorubicin, etoposide and vincristine. Ovarian cancer 2008 cells and its MRP1 transfected variant (2008/MRP1) were adapted from normal folate medium [2.3 μM; high folate (HF) cells] to short-term folate depletion (up to 7 days) (low folate cells); drugs were added after 2 days and sensitivity was tested by the MTT test after 3 additional days. The effect on folate homeostasis was evaluated by measurement of intracellular homocysteine using high-performance liquid chromatography and glutathione using a kit. MRP expression of wild-type (WT) 2008 cells did not increase homocysteine pools in 2008/MRP1 cells. Three day folate depletion increased homocysteine pools 23-fold in 2008 cells and 8.6-fold in the MRP variant. Folate depletion increased glutathione 20%–40% in 2008/WT and 2008/MRP1. In 2008 HF cells MRP1 expression did not affect sensitivity to MTX, but induced 4- to 10-fold resistance to doxorubicin, daunorubicin, etoposide and vincristine. Folate depletion decreased 50% growth inhibition (IC50) for MTX in both 2008 variants 25- to 4-fold, but that to doxorubicin and daunorubicin approximately 2-fold. Sensitivity to etoposide and vincristine was not affected. In conclusion, folate depletion markedly increased homocysteine, but moderately increased glutathione. Folate depletion increased MTX sensitivity, but effects on other drugs were most pronounced in WT cells, probably because MRP expression is already high in transfected variants.
The effects of marble dust and fly ash on clay soil
Authors: Zorluer Ismail , Gucek Suleyman 
Published: May 2013

Abstract
The use of waste materials as an additive in soil stabilization has been widespread. This is important in terms of recycling of waste materials and reducing environmental pollution. The objective of this study is to investigate the beneficial reuse of marble dust and fly ash in soil stabilization. Tests were performed on clay soil mixtures amended with marble dust and fly ash. Marble dust was used as an activator due to fly ash being inadequate for self-cementing. Unconfined compressive strength (q
u), freeze-thaw, swelling, and California bearing ratio (CBR) tests were conducted to investigate the effect of marble dust and fly ash, curing time, and molding water content on geotechnical parameters. Addition of marble dust and fly ash increased unconfined compressive strength, CBR, and freeze-thaw strength, but these additives decreased swelling potential and grain loss after freeze-thaw. Increasing the curing time results in increased strength of mixtures and decreased grain loss. As a result, this study shows that the geotechnical properties of clay soil are improved with the addition of marble dust and fly ash. This is an economical and environmentally friendly solution.
Removal of selected pesticides by adsorption
Authors: Valičková Mária , Derco Ján , Šimovičová Katarína 
Published: May 2013

Abstract
The paper is focused on the removal of selected priority hazardous substances. Five chlorinated pesticides, i.e. hexachlorobenzene (HCHB), hexachlorobutadiene (HCHBD), lindane (LIN), pentachlorobenzene (PCHB) and heptachlor (HCH) were selected as model pollutants. Higher volatility is characteristic for these substances. Adsorption of these pollutants on granular activated carbon (GAC), zeolite (Zeo) and activated sludge (AS) was investigated. The effect of contact time on the removal efficiency of studied substances was investigated. From results of the work it follows that the highest removal efficiency of studied substances was achieved by the adsorption on activated sludge. This was followed by adsorption efficiency on zeolite. The lowest removal efficiency was measured for adsorption on granular activated carbon.
Photocytotoxicity of [Cu(N-salicyliden-L-glutamato · 2H2O] · isoquinoline
Authors: Pisarčíková Jana , Čižeková Lýdia , Paulíková Helena , Vantová Zuzana 
Published: May 2013

Abstract
The metal complexes have a significant role in photodynamic therapy (PDT). The most common metals studied for PDT of tumors are transitional metals. In this paper we have studied the copper(II) complexes of N-salicyliden-L-glutamate. The photocytostatic effect was monitored against mouse leukemic cell line L1210. Photocytostatic effect was confirmed for [Cu(N-salicyliden-L-glutamato・2H2O]・isoquinoline (CuCIQ), but it wasn’t observed for the parental molecule [Cu(N-salicyliden-L-glutamato・2H2O]・H2O. CuCIQ had photocytotoxic effect already at 10 μM concentration. Irradiated cells (1050 mJ.cm-2, λ = 365 nm) had half the viability of the cells incubated with CuCIQ in the dark (72 h). Co-incubation of the cells with CuCIQ and ascorbic acid increased this photocytotoxic effect and this effect correlated with the elevated level of lipoperoxidation.
Multidimensional gas chromatography and its applications in food and environmental analysis
Authors: Pažitná Alexandra , Jánošková Nikoleta , Špánik Ivan 
Published: May 2013

Abstract
This review deals with overview of methods of multidimensional gas chromatography (MDGC), the classical meaning- conventional heart-cut MDGC, and the comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography (GC×GC). MDGC is widely used because it increases required separation efficiency, which cannot be achieved by one-dimensional gas chromatography. Selected applications in food quality and safety, monitoring of environment, food authentication are summarized. This review summarizes the advances and applications of MDGC that have been published over last 10 years.