bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
On duality and endomorphisms of lattices of closed convex sets
Authors: Slomka Boaz A. 
Published: March 2011

Abstract
The class of closed convex sets in is a lattice with respect to the operations of intersections and closed convex hulls of unions. We completely classify the endomorphisms of this lattice and its sublattice consisting of sets containing the origin 0. We show that they consist of constant maps and maps induced by the affine group. As a consequence, we obtain a characterization of the duality mapping for the class of closed convex sets containing 0. Moreover, by modifying a proof of Böröczky and Schneider we obtain the same result for the sublattice consisting of compact bodies containing 0.
On the complexity group of stable curves
Authors: Busonero Simone , Melo Margarida , Stoppino Lidia 
Published: March 2011

Abstract
In this paper, we study combinatorial properties of stable curves. To the dual graph of any nodal curve, there is naturally associated a group, which is the group of components of the Néron model of the generalized Jacobian of the curve. We study the order of this group, called the complexity. In particular, we provide a partial characterization of the stable curves having maximal complexity, and we provide an upper bound, depending only on the genus g of the curve, on the maximal complexity of stable curves; this bound is asymptotically sharp for g ≫ 0. Eventually, we state some conjectures on the behavior of stable curves with maximal complexity, and prove partial results in this direction.
Isoperimetric inequalities for wave fronts and a generalization of Menzin's conjecture for bicycle monodromy on surfaces of constant curvature
Authors: Howe Sean , Pancia Matthew , Zakharevich Valentin 
Published: March 2011

Abstract
The classical isoperimetric inequality relates the lengths of curves to the areas that they bound. More specifically, we have that for a smooth, simple closed curve of length L bounding area A on a surface of constant curvature c,

L
2 ≥ 4πA – cA
2

with equality holding only if the curve is a geodesic circle. We prove generalizations of the isoperimetric inequality for both spherical and hyperbolic wave fronts (i.e. piecewise smooth curves which may have cusps). We then discuss “bicycle curves” using the generalized isoperimetric inequalities. The euclidean model of a bicycle is a unit segment AB that can move so that it remains tangent to the trajectory of point A (the rear wheel is fixed on the bicycle frame), as discussed in [Finn, The College Mathematics Journal, 33, 2002], [Tabachnikov, Israel J. Math. 151: 1–28, 2006], and [Levi, Tabachnikov, Experiment. Math. 18: 173–186, 2009]. We extend this definition to a general Riemannian manifold, and concern ourselves in particular with bicycle curves in the hyperbolic plane H
2 and on the sphere S
2. We prove results along the lines of those in [Levi, Tabachnikov, Experiment. Math. 18: 173–186, 2009] and resolve both spherical and hyperbolic versions of Menzin's conjecture, which relates the area bounded by a curve to its associated monodromy map.
The effect of apolipoprotein E (ApoE) genotype on biomarkers of amyloidogenesis, tau pathology and neurodegeneration in Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Leoni Valerio 
Published: March 2011

AbstractThe presence of theɛ4allele in apolipoprotein E (ApoE) represents the most important genetic risk factor for late onset sporadic Alzheimer's disease (AD), together with age and mid-life hypercholesterolemia. ApoE4 is the most important lipid transporter between cells in the CNS and it was found that ApoE4 is involved in Amyloid β (Aβ) formation, fibrilisation, accumulation, in the aggregation and hyperphosphorylation of tau and in the metabolism of brain cholesterol and in neurodegeneration. Low cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) Aβ1-42 is a marker of Aβ plaque load in the brain. High CSF t-tau and p-tau concentrations reflect axonal and neuronal damage and injury, which correlates with a neurofibrillary tangle stage and load, also reflecting the intensity of the disease process. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) brain atrophy is a biomarker of neurodegeneration and is the result of loss of neurons, synapses and dendritic arborization. ApoE genotype interacts with the AD biomarkers:ɛ4carriers were found to present with lower concentrations of Aβ1-42, higher tau and p-tau, higher tau/Aβ ratio and a higher degree of brain atrophy at any disease stage, changing the test performances and the ability to distinguish between the different cognitive condition. The presence of theɛ4allele was also found to increase the power to predict further cognitive decline. Even if the presence of ApoE4 is not a deterministic factor for AD, it seems to shift the progression of the disease towards a younger age and faster progression. It is also likely that theɛ4allele increases the intensity of the pathological process in several ways. In the study of cognitive impaired patients and in their follow-up, biomarkers should be interpreted in consideration of the ApoE genotype in order to better predict the progression of the disease.
False positive troponin result caused by a true macrotroponin
Authors: Michielsen Etienne C.H.J. , Bisschops Pieter G.T. , Janssen Marcel J.W. 
Published: March 2011

Abstract

Background: A 35-year-old female presented with complaints of tiredness, shortness of breath and recent onset of chest pain. The cardiac troponin I (cTnI) concentration was elevated at 6.4 μg/L (Abbott Architect reference value: <0.03 μg/L) with a normal ECG. Physical examination, radiological imaging and routine laboratory investigations did not provide an explanation for the elevated cTnI concentration.

Methods: Use of different troponin assays, dilutions with assay diluent, addition of mouse serum, polyethylene glycol (PEG) precipitation and gel filtration chromatography (GFC) were used to investigate possible interference.

Results: Troponin concentrations were below the level of detection when measured using all other troponin immunoassays. Serial dilutions of sample and addition of mouse serum did not alter the results. However, PEG precipitation and GFC showed the presence of a high molecular weight immunoreactive protein. Using GFC and protein-A IgG precipitation, the interference could be identified as a macrocomplex containing IgG and (fragments of) cTnI.

Conclusions: We report a false positive cTnI result caused by a true macrotroponin, containing IgG and (fragments of) cTnI. This macrotroponin was only immunoreactive in the Abbott Architect cTnI immunoassay. Clinicians should be aware of analytical interference when troponin results are constantly elevated in the absence of (non)coronary causes of an increased troponin.
From Pathways to Genomes and Beyond: The Metabolic Engineering Toolbox and Its Place in Biofuels Production
Authors: Liu Leqian , Reed Ben , Alper Hal 
Published: March 2011

AbstractConcerns about the availability of petroleum-derived fuels and chemicals have led to the exploration of metabolically engineered organisms as novel hosts for biofuels and chemicals production. However, the complexity inherent in metabolic and regulatory networks makes this undertaking a complex task. To address these limitations, metabolic engineering has adapted a wide-variety of tools for altering phenotypes. In this review, we will highlight traditional and recent metabolic engineering tools for optimizing cells including pathway-based, global, and genomics enabled approaches. Specifically, we describe these tools as well as provide demonstrations of their effectiveness in optimizing biofuels production. However, each of these tools provides stepping stones towards the grand goal of biofuels production. Thus, developing methods for largescale cellular optimization and integrative approaches are invaluable for further cell optimization. This review highlights the challenges that still must be met to accomplish this goal.
Nanostructured Inorganic Solar Cells
Authors: Musselman Kevin P. , Schmidt-Mende Lukas 
Published: March 2011

AbstractRecent progress in the development of nanostructured inorganic solar cells is reviewed. Nanostructuring of inorganic solar cells offers the possibility of reducing the cost of photovoltaics by allowing smaller amounts of lower-grade photovoltaic semiconductors to be used. Various fabrication methods used to nanostructure traditional photovoltaic semiconductors are detailed and the performance of resulting devices is discussed. The synthesis of solar cells by solution-based methods using less traditional, abundant materials is identified as a promising route to widescale photovoltaic electricity generation, and nanostructured solar cell geometries are highlighted as essential in this approach. Templating and self-assembling methods used to produce appropriate low-cost nanostructures from solutions are detailed, and the performance of preliminary ultra-low-cost cells made with these structures is reviewed.
Efficient Anode and Cathode Materials for Amorphous Silicon Solar Cell Driven all Solar Electrolysis of Water
Authors: Khan Shahed U. M. , Frites Mourad , Ingler William B. 
Published: March 2011

AbstractFew non-noble metal based anode and cathode materials were investigated for all solar electrolysis of water to hydrogen and oxygen gases powered by double junction amorphous silicon (Dj-a-Si) solar cell under solar simulated light of 1 sun. The highest hydrogen generation current efficiency of 58.68% was obtained when Pt wire was used as a cathode with the non-noble metal based Ni-Co
Silencing of CDK5 as potential therapy for Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: López-Tobón Alejandro , Castro-Álvarez John Fredy , Piedrahita Diego , Boudreau Ryan L. , Gallego-Gómez Juan Carlos , Cardona-Gómez Gloria Patricia 
Published: March 2011

Abstract
Neurodegeneration is one of the greatest public health challenges for the 21st century. Among neurodegenerative diseases, Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most prevalent and best characterized. Nevertheless, despite the large investment in AD research, currently there is no effective therapeutic option. In the present review, we highlight a novel alternative, which takes advantage of the biotechnological outbreak deployed by the discovery of the RNA interference-based gene silencing mechanism, and its application as a tool for neurodegeneration treatment. Here, we highlight cyclin-dependent kinase 5 (CDK5) as a key candidate target for therapeutic gene silencing. Unlike other members of the cyclin-dependent kinase family, CDK5 does not seem to play a crucial role in cell cycle regulation. By contrast, CDK5 participates in multiple functions during nervous system development and has been established as a key mediator of Tau hyperphosphorylation and neurofibrillary pathology, thus serving as an optimal candidate for targeted therapy in the adult nervous system. We propose that the use of RNA interference for CDK5 silencing presents an attractive and specific therapeutic alternative for AD and perhaps against other tauopathies.
Imaging spatial learning in the brain using immediate early genes: insights, opportunities and limitations
Authors: Barry Daniel N. , Commins Sean 
Published: March 2011

Abstract
Immediate early gene (IEG) imaging offers a sophisticated approach to study the neural basis of learning in the brain. Demonstrating a high degree of spatial resolution, the activation of entire neuronal ensembles at multiple time-points can be observed. IEG imaging techniques have revealed a high level of responsiveness to spatial exploration within the hippocampus and other brain regions. The pattern of IEG activation is tightly linked with specific environments and appears to be involved in the subsequent consolidation of spatial information. This incidental learning is a potential confounding factor in studies investigating the neural correlates of spatial learning in both the radial arm maze and water maze. Although both these tasks increase hippocampal IEG expression from baseline levels, where control groups have fully explored the apparatus in the absence of task demands, or where animals are performing a non-spatial task, IEG expression in this region is comparable to spatially trained groups. However, the relationship between IEG expression and task performance, as well as the pattern of brain activation has been shown to differentiate between experimental and control groups. Inconsistencies between training protocols appear to contribute to the discrepancies between reported findings, and the role of IEG expression in the retention of spatial memory tasks remains unclear. Further investigation of the time course and dynamics of IEG expression during learning and retention is required to fully interpret observed results.
Correlation Between Chemical Composition of Steel, Optimal Hardened Layer, and Optimal Residual Stress Distribution
Authors: Kobasko Nikolai I. 
Published: March 2011

Abstract
A method for optimizing the chemical composition of steels to obtain optimal residual stress distribution throughout the section of a steel part is proposed, which is based on the analytical equation for the calculation of ideal critical diameter (DI). The advantage of this method consists of the opportunity to calculate the ideal critical size for a variety of geometries on the basis of their respective continuos-cooling transformation (CCT) diagrams. Detailed discussions are provided relating to the optimal depth of the hardened layer, which provides high surface compressive residual stresses and minimal tensile stresses in the core. It is also shown that the ratio of the DI to the diameter of the part with an optimal residual stress distribution should be the same, that is, DI/Dopt=const with steel parts of varying sizes. This relationship can be used for the development of new technologies for large-sized parts based on the results obtained for small parts. The service life of steel parts increases after intensive quenching due to the formation of high surface compressive residual stresses and improved mechanical properties. During intensive quenching, the effect of additional strengthening (super strengthening) of the material is observed, which is connected with the intensification of cooling process within the martensite range.
Emulsification Performance Used for NPE Replacement in Solvent-Based Formulations
Authors: Lowe Elizabeth H. , Milbradt Robert 
Published: March 2011

Abstract
The increase in the world’s population has led to an increased demand for agricultural products, which in turn calls for more intensive farming and higher crop yields. To minimize the impact on the environment, society demands more environmentally-friendly products to be used. Regulatory authorities have answered the public’s call for “greener” chemistries by applying pressure to not only replace the more harmful active ingredients, but also the formulation inerts. The Crop Protection Industry has used nonylphenol ethoxylates (NPEs) as inert ingredients in pesticides and spray adjuvants for decades. The implementation of European Directive 2003-53 EC, which bans the use of NPEs, has caused many American markets to look for alternatives for nonylphenol-based surfactants as well. Substitute chemistries typically are chosen based on hydrophile-lipophile balance (HLB) values and cloud points. This study uses an alternative method of selection by evaluating the emulsifier performance in commonly used solvents in emulsifiable concentrates (ECs), emulsion oil-in-water (EW), and oil dispersion (OD) formulations. A modified cylinder test is used for the evaluation of a wide range of surfactants. The emulsifier, solvent, and hard water are placed in a glass cylinder, inverted multiple times, and allowed to stand undisturbed for 24 h. The emulsification performance is then calculated based on the phase height of each emulsion, which is then compared to the performance of the systems, which includes NPEs. The solvents used in the study are not only the common naptha-based solvents as seen in many ECs, but also in the more environmentally-friendly formulation types such as EWs and ODs, which use mineral oils, seed oils, and seed oil methyl esters. This method offers an easy way to reformulate NPE-containing formulations with regard to sustainability and an emulsifier selection guide for environmentally-friendly formulations in general.
A Fluorescent Tracer Method for Evaluating Spray Transport and Fate of Field and Laboratory Spray Applications
Authors: Fritz Bradley K. , Hoffmann W. Clint , Jank Phil 
Published: March 2011

Abstract
Field and laboratory testing spray nozzles and application systems use spray collectors to assess where the spray deposits once it leaves the spray system. Tracer materials, such as oil and water soluble fluorescent dyes, can be mixed into spray solutions in small amounts with minimal impact on the solution physical properties and atomization characteristics of the nozzle or spray system. Depending on the dye and recovery methods used, detection levels may range from g/ha down to the parts per trillion making them practical for use in studies where these ranges may occur, such as drift studies that measure in-swath and downwind deposition. Exposed samples can be quickly processed, typically using non-toxic solvents such as purified water or ethyl alcohol. This quick, inexpensive processing allows users the flexibility to plan studies requiring large numbers of samples. Spray formulations using these dyes at specific rates are used as the basis for establishing a set of standard concentrations which are used to relate fluorescence to dye concentration. Laboratory evaluations of tracer deposition compare the fluorescence of processed samples with the fluorescence from a set of reference samples with known dye concentrations allowing users to calculate the actual amount of dye in the sample and thus concentration on the sample being processed. This work will present the step by step process of converting dye concentrations from known and unknown samples to deposition measurements. A downloadable Microsoft Excel® spreadsheet will be made available to allow users to replicate these techniques. This technique effectively allows these tracer materials to provide a direct measure of the amount of active ingredient and/or spray mixture that deposits on sampling surfaces of interest.
The Use of a VRS-Based Pioneer 3-AT Robot in Pavement Inspections
Authors: Chang Jia-Ruey , Yu Feng-Chi , Huang Tsun-Cheng , Kang Shih-Chung , Hsieh Shang-Hsien 
Published: March 2011

Abstract
This study proposed a framework of the Pioneer 3-AT (P3-AT) autonomous robot for pavement inspection that was integrated with a highly accurate virtual reference station (VRS) positioning technique. The two test sites were 60 km apart; one was rigid pavement and the other was flexible pavement. Two VRS systems were adopted: (1) A VRS system developed by Taiwan Control Signal Co., Limited and (2) Virtual Base Station Real-Time Kinematic (also called e-GPS system) from Taiwan National Land Surveying and Mapping Center. First, the tire pressure and horizontal movement of the P3-AT were calibrated on the two test sites. Then the accuracy of the positioning data provided by VRS to guide the P3-AT was investigated under both static and dynamic conditions at distances of movement from 0.25 to 20 m, to verify the stability and feasibility of this framework. We observed that standard deviations in positioning were less than 0.03 m and rms values were close to prescribed distances in static tests. The reproducible errors were less than 0.03 m in dynamic tests. The results showed that the two VRS systems were able to provide the P3-AT with accurate positioning data on the two test sites. This study also successfully demonstrated the use of the P3-AT in autonomously surveying surface distresses and manholes and its ability to accurately plot slabs on a rigid pavement. Since the P3-AT possesses the properties of low volume, slow speed, flexible modules, and low price, this study confirms that the P3-AT integrated with the VRS positioning technique has the potential to provide significant assistance in automatic pavement inspections of specific areas, such as airports, and for particular purposes, such as Quality Control/Quality Assurance testing.
Management of hyperthyroidism during pregnancy and lactation
Authors: Azizi Fereidoun , Amouzegar Atieh 
Published: March 2011

IntroductionPoorly treated or untreated maternal overt hyperthyroidism may affect pregnancy outcome. Fetal and neonatal hypo- or hyper-thyroidism and neonatal central hypothyroidism may complicate health issues during intrauterine and neonatal periods.AimTo review articles related to appropriate management of hyperthyroidism during pregnancy and lactation.MethodsA literature review was performed using MEDLINE with the terms ‘hyperthyroidism and pregnancy’, ‘antithyroid drugs and pregnancy’, ‘radioiodine and pregnancy’, ‘hyperthyroidism and lactation’, and ‘antithyroid drugs and lactation’, both separately and in conjunction with the terms ‘fetus’ and ‘maternal.’ResultsAntithyroid drugs are the main therapy for maternal hyperthyroidism. Both methimazole (MMI) and propylthiouracil (PTU) may be used during pregnancy; however, PTU is preferred in the first trimester and should be replaced by MMI after this trimester. Choanal and esophageal atresia of fetus in MMI-treated and maternal hepatotoxicity in PTU-treated pregnancies are of utmost concern. Maintaining free thyroxine concentration in the upper one-third of each trimester-specific reference interval denotes success of therapy. MMI is the mainstay of the treatment of post partum hyperthyroidism, in particular during lactation.ConclusionManagement of hyperthyroidism during pregnancy and lactation requires special considerations and should be carefully implemented to avoid any adverse effects on the mother, fetus, and neonate.
Losing Contact with One'S Unborn Baby—Mothers' Experiences Prior to Receiving News That Their Baby Has Died in Utero
Authors: Malm M.-C. , Lindgren H. , Rådestad I. 
Published: March 2011

Background: A change in the pattern of movement of her unborn baby could be indicative that the baby might die. Aim: To study mothers' experiences during the time prior to receiving news that their baby has died. Method: Interviews with 26 mothers. Results: Premonition that something had happened to their baby, a sense based on a lack of movements were experienced. Six categories describe the mother's insight that the baby's life was threatened: not feeling in touch with their baby; worry' feeling something is wrong; not understanding the unbelievable; wanting information; and being certain that their baby had died. The overarching theme “There is something wrong” was formulated. Conclusion: The mother could not understand the unbelievable: that the baby had died in utero. Implications: Mother's should be cautioned to trust their insights and seek medical advice if they are concerned over the lack of movement from the unborn baby.
Parasitic infections and pregnancy complications
Authors: Pavlinová J. , Kinčeková J. , Ostró A. , Saksun L. , Vasilková Z. , Königová A. 
Published: March 2011

Abstract
Infections of various aetiology during pregnancy present a serious risk factor that can lead to abortion, premature birth, stillbirth, birth of newborn with genetic developmental defects, or seemingly healthy infant that may develop symptoms later in life. A total of 530 sera of patients from gynaecology departments were examined for antibodies against Toxoplasma gondii, Toxocara spp. and Listeria monocytogenes using ELISA (IgG, IgM). In women with habitual abortions we determined up to 42.1 % seroprevalence of IgG antibodies against T. gondii. The prevalence of antibodies was statistically significant (p < 0.0004) when compared to control group (25.1 %). In the patients diagnosed with sterility the prevalence of antibodies (26.3 %) was similar to that of control group. The prevalence of antibodies against Toxocara spp. (5.5 %) and Listeria monocytogenes (2.3 %) in patients with habitual abortions were similar to those of women in the general population.