bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simultaneous chiral separation and determination of carvedilol and 5′-hydroxyphenyl carvedilol enantiomers from human urine by high performance liquid chromatography coupled with fluorescent detection
Authors: Magiera Sylwia , Adolf Weronika , Baranowska Irena
Published: September 2013

A sensitive and specific high performance liquid chromatography coupled with fluorescent detection (HPLC-FL) and tandem mass spectrometry detection (HPLC-MS/MS) methods for separation and determination of carvedilol (CAR) enantiomers and 5′-hydroxyphenyl carvedilol (5′-HCAR) enantiomers has been developed and validated. The analysed compounds were extracted from human urine by solid phase extraction. Good enantioseparation of the studied enantiomers was achieved on CHIRALCEL® OD-RH column using 0.05% trifluoroacetic acid and 0.05% diethylamine in water and acetonitrile in a gradient elution. The mass spectrometric data were acquired using the multiple reaction monitoring mode by positive electrospray ionisation. The method was validated over the concentration range from 25.0 ng mL−1 to 200 ng mL−1 for the analysed compounds. The limit of quantification varied from 14.2 ng mL−1 to 24.2 ng mL−1. Both the repeatability and inter-day precisions were below 10.0%, and the accuracy varied from −13.2% to 3.77%. The extraction recoveries ranged from 79.2% to 108%. The present paper reports the method for the simultaneous determination of CAR enantiomers and their metabolite enantiomers (5′-HCAR) in human urine samples. This newly developed method was successfully used to analyse the aforementioned analytes in human urine samples obtained from patients suffering from cardiovascular disease.
Salutaridine and its derivatives as thebaine-equivalents in the synthesis of aporphines
Authors: Udvardy Antal , Sipos Attila
Published: September 2013

Here we report the transformation of tetracyclic morphinan salutaridine (1) into 2,3,10,11-tetrasubstituted (R)-aporphines. This method serves as another chemical proof of the previously verified biosynthetic connection with pentacyclic morphinan-6,8-diene-type thebaine. In the presence of nucleophiles, this procedure could lead to pharmacologically interesting new tetrasubstituted aporphinoids. The enantioselective synthesis of 7S-salutaridinol (2) has been also achieved in order to investigate the acid-catalyzed reactions of this natural morphinan.
Clinical Trial Registration in Physical Therapy Journals: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Babu Abraham Samuel , Veluswamy Sundar Kumar , Rao Pratiksha Tilak , Maiya Arun G.
Published: September 2013

Background

Clinical trial registration has become an important part of editorial policies of various biomedical journals, including a few physical therapy journals. However, the extent to which editorial boards enforce the need for trial registration varies across journals.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to identify editorial policies and reporting of trial registration details in MEDLINE-indexed English-language physical therapy journals.

Design

This study was carried out using a cross-sectional design.

Methods

Editorial policies on trial registration of MEDLINE-indexed member journals of the International Society of Physiotherapy Journal Editors (ISPJE) (Journal of Geriatric Physical Therapy, Journal of Hand Therapy, Journal of Neurologic Physical Therapy, Journal of Orthopaedic and Sports Physical Therapy, Journal of Physiotherapy [formerly Australian Journal of Physiotherapy], Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport, Manual Therapy, Physical Therapy, Physical Therapy in Sport, Physiotherapy, Physiotherapy Research International, Physiotherapy Theory and Practice, and Revista Brasileira de Fisioterapia) were reviewed in April 2013. Full texts of reports of clinical trials published in these journals between January 1, 2008, and December 31, 2012, were independently assessed for information on trial registration.

Results

Among the 13 journals, 8 recommended trial registration, and 6 emphasized prospective trial registration. As of April 2013, 4,618 articles were published between January 2008 and December 2012, of which 9% (417) were clinical trials and 29% (121/417) of these reported trial registration details. A positive trend in reporting of trial registration was observed from 2008 to 2012.

Limitations

The study was limited to MEDLINE-indexed ISPJE member journals.

Conclusions

Editorial policies on trial registration of physical therapy journals and a rising trend toward reporting of trial registration details indicate a positive momentum toward trial registration. Physical therapy journal editors need to show greater commitment to prospective trial registration to make it a rule rather than an option.
Rasch Analysis Supports the Use of the Pain Self-Efficacy Questionnaire
Authors: Di Pietro Flavia , Catley Mark J. , McAuley James H. , Parkitny Luke , Maher Christopher G. , Costa Luciola da Cunha Menezes , Macedo Luciana G. , Williams Chris M. , Moseley G. Lorimer
Published: September 2013

Background

The Pain Self-Efficacy Questionnaire (PSEQ) is used by physical therapists in clinical practice and in research. However, current understanding of the PSEQ's measurement properties is incomplete, and investigators cannot be confident that it provides unbiased information on patient self-efficacy.

Objective

The aims of this study were: (1) to investigate the scale properties of the PSEQ using Rasch analysis and (2) to determine whether age, sex, pain intensity, pain duration, and pain-related disability bias function of the PSEQ.

Design

This was a retrospective study; data were obtained from 3 existing studies.

Methods

Data were combined from more than 600 patients with low back pain of varying duration. Rasch analysis was used to evaluate targeting, category ordering, unidimensionality, person fit, internal consistency, and item bias.

Results

There was evidence of adequate category ordering, unidimensionality, and internal consistency of the PSEQ. Importantly, there was no evidence of item bias.

Limitations

The PSEQ did not adequately target the sample; instead, it targeted people with lower self-efficacy than this population. Item 7 was hardest for participants to endorse, showing excessive positive misfit to the Rasch model. Response strings of misfitting persons revealed older participants and those reporting high levels of disability.

Conclusions

The individual items of the PSEQ can be validly summed to provide a score of self-efficacy that is robust to age, sex, pain intensity, pain duration, and disability. Although item 7 is the most problematic, it may provide important clinical information and requires further investigation before its exclusion. Although the PSEQ is commonly used with people with low back pain, of whom the sample in this study was representative, the results suggest it targets patients with lower self-efficacy than that observed in the current sample.
Differences in Adiponectin Gene Expression: Adiponectin Gene Expression is Higher in Gluteal than in Abdominal Adipose Tissue
Authors: Moghadasi Mehrzad , Mohebbi Hamid , Rahmani-Nia Farhad , Hassan-Nia Sadegh , Noroozi Hamid , Nematollahzadeh Mohadeseh
Published: September 2013

Objective: Obesity down regulated the adiponectin gene expression, but differences in adiponectin gene expression in gluteal adipose tissue (GAT) and in abdominal adipose tissue (AAT) are not well known. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine the differences in adiponectin gene expression in GAT and in AAT. Material & Methods: Nineteen healthy obese middle aged men (aged 41.4±6.1 years; mean ± SD) Adipose tissue (AT) biopsies from the subcutaneous abdominal and subcutaneous gluteal depots were obtained. Results: Adiponectin gene expression was 22.7% higher in subcutaneous GAT than in subcutaneous AAT. Conclusion: Adiponectin gene expression is higher in GAT than in AAT, suggesting GAT to be more important for circulating adiponectin levels. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ajms.v5i1.4412 Asian Journal of Medical Science Vol.5(1) 2014 pp.34-38
Unilateral Third Head of Biceps Brachii with Associated Neurovascular Variants in both the Upper Limbs of a Single Cadaver
Authors: Poornima C Swathi , Bhagyalakshmi B
Published: September 2013

During routine undergraduate dissection in the upper extremities of a 65 years old male cadaver in the department of Anatomy at Dr. PSIMS & RF, coexistence of muscular and neurovascular variants were identified .Muscular variations included presence of additional head(third) of biceps brachii in the left arm, accompanied with medially positioned median nerve in relation to brachial artery bilaterally . Teres minor muscle was not identified and the origin of long head of triceps brachii extended upto the lateral border of scapula on the left side. Both the medial cutaneous nerves of arm and forearm arouse from a single trunk bilaterally. In the right limb the axillary artery showed only four branches instead of six branches, with common trunk for thoraco-acromial and lateral thoracic artery and common trunk for subscapular and posterior circumflex humeral artery. Knowledge of coexistence of these variations would of profound importance surgically and clinically, especially in limb injuries and surgical repairs. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ajms.v5i1.7391   Asian Journal of Medical Science Vol.5(1) 2014 pp.81-85
Students’ Reflections on Teaching Methodology in Anatomy
Authors: Chopra Jyoti , Rani Anita , Rani Archana , Deewan RK , Srivastava AK , Sharma PK
Published: September 2013

Objective: With technological evolution, use of power point presentation has been increased tremendously for classroom teachings in medical education. There is dearth of information that whether this technology is really liked by the students in anatomy or not. Therefore present study was conducted to assess which methodology of teaching anatomy was preferred by students: traditional (chalk & black-board), computer assisted or both when combined. Methods: A questionnaire based study was conducted that involved 250 1st year MBBS students. Students were asked to fill semi structured questionnaire that contained closed and open ended questions regarding teaching methodology. Results & Conclusion: 70.37% students favored combination of power point presentations along with traditional method, 25.93% preferred chalk and blackboard method and only 3.7% students opined that power point presentations should be the sole method of teaching. Therefore the study concludes that traditional method of lecture delivery in anatomy should be carefully amalgamated with power point presentations to meet the aspirations of students and to combat the limitations of chalk and board method. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ajms.v5i1.8039 Asian Journal of Medical Science Vol.5(1) 2014 pp.47-51
Mixed Signals: NGO Campaigns and Non-state Market Driven (NSMD) Governance in an Export-Oriented Country
Authors: Auld Graeme , Cashore Benjamin
Published: September 2013

In the past two decades, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) have targeted international customers of Canadian staples, intent on cajoling and coercing them to favour exporting firms certified as practising responsible fisheries and forestry management. The link between these campaigns and the adoption of these non-state market driven (NSMD) mechanisms is, however, more complex than often portrayed. There is an uneasy tension between demands favouring NSMD as a new form of private governance that will vary its own stewardship standards according to scientific information, multi-stakeholder deliberations, and price signals; and traditional demands that focus on a specific behaviour of a specific firm over a specific, albeit narrow, environmental problem. Indecision on the part of NGOs about the approach to take creates mixed signals, affecting firm decisions (purchasers and producers) in ways that can reduce the institutionalization of private authority. We examine these dynamics by unpacking the campaigns and their implications for the potential and consequences of NSMD governance.
Reverse Auctions for Agri-Environmental Improvements: Bid-Selection Rules and Pricing for Beneficial Management Practice Adoption
Authors: Boxall Peter C. , Perger Orsolya , Weber Marian
Published: September 2013

This study uses experimental economic methods to examine the efficacy of reverse auctions to generate efficient nutrient abatement from livestock operations. The experimental parameters were benchmarked to a specific beneficial management practice in a Manitoba watershed and were used to examine three bid-selection rules and two pricing rules. The results suggest that targeting livestock with the practice performed almost as well as targeting specific abatement levels at the farm level. Auctions that maximized participation of producers fared poorly on both environmental and economic outcome measures. The uniform-price rule was found to be superior to the discriminative-pricing rule.
Federalism and Climate Policy Innovation: A Critical Reassessment
Authors: Harrison Kathryn
Published: September 2013

This article argues that the prospects for US state and Canadian provincial climate policy innovation and diffusion are limited in several respects. Subnational climate leaders tend already to be the cleanest states and provinces, and even they have been strategic in the sectors they regulate and the instruments they employ. In some cases, this selectivity appears to be motivated by opportunities to shift compliance costs to other states. Efforts to pool risks through state and provincial collaboration also are flagging in the wake of the Canadian and US federal governments’ failure to adopt nation-wide policies to level the playing field.
After the Return
Authors: Bell Joshua A. , Christen Kimberly , Turin Mark
Published: September 2013

On 19 January 2012, the workshop After the Return: Digital Repatriation and the Circulation of Indigenous Knowledge was held at the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of Natural History in Washington DC. With support from the National Science Foundation and the Smithsonian’s Understanding the American Experience and Valuing World Cultures Consortia, this workshop brought together twenty-eight international participants for a debate around what happens to digital materials after they are returned to communities (however such communities are conceived, bounded, and lived). The workshop provided a unique opportunity for a critical debate about the very idea of digital return in all of its problematic manifestations, from the linguistic to the legal, as indigenous communities, archives, libraries, and museums work through the terrain of digital collaboration, return, and sharing. What follows is a report on the workshop’s presentations and discussions.
From the Desk of Editor-in-Chief Vol.3(2)
Authors: Uddin AKM Rafique
Published: September 2013

Journal of Enam Medical College; Vol 3 No 2 July 2013; Page 59 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jemc.v3i2.16123
Vitamin D Deficiency in South Asian Populations: A Serious Emerging Problem
Authors: Ahasan HAM Nazmul , Das Aparna
Published: September 2013

Journal of Enam Medical College; Vol 3 No 2 July 2013; Page 63-66 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jemc.v3i2.16125
Effect of Cinnamon (Cinnamomum cassia) as a Lipid Lowering Agent on Hypercholesterolemic Rats
Authors: Rahman Sonia , Begum Halima , Rahman Zaida , Ara Ferdous , Iqbal Md. Jalaluddin , Yousuf Abul Kalam Mohammad
Published: September 2013

Background: Dyslipidemia is one of the important causes of cardiovascular disease related mortality and morbidity. Recently it has become a significant issue in public health problem of developing countries. The purpose of the study was to find a suitable solution for reducing blood lipid in dyslipidemic patients by conducting a research on the effect of cinnamon in hypercholesterolemic rats. Objective: To study the lipid lowering effect of Cinnamomum cassia on experimentally induced hypercholesterolemic rats. Materials and Methods: This study was done on 30 male Long Evans rats weighing about 200--210 gram. For convenience, the study was divided into two experiments --- Experiment I and Experiment II. In experiment I, 12 animals were divided into two groups. One was Group A (n = 6, control group) fed on laboratory diet and the other was Group B (n = 6) fed on laboratory diet and cinnamon for 35 days. In experiment II, the remaining 18 rats were fed fatty mixture diet containing 1% cholesterol and 0.25% cholic acid. The hypercholesterolemic rats were then divided into 3 groups, Group C, D, and E (n=6 in each group). Group D and Group E were additionally fed on cinnamon powder and tablet atorvastatin for 35 days respectively. Serum TC, TG, LDL-C and HDL-C were measured after 35 days. Results: Fatty mixture diet increased TG, TC and LDL-C significantly. Cinnamon treated fatty mixture diet group showed that Cinnamomum cassia decreased plasma TC, TG and LDL-C. Atorvastatin therapy decreased TC, TG and LDL-C levels significantly compared with the lowering effect of cinnamon. Conclusion: The results of this experimental study indicate that Cinnamomum cassia can act as a hypocholesterolemic agent and thereby can improve cardiovascular functions. Journal of Enam Medical College; Vol 3 No 2 July 2013; Page 94-98 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jemc.v3i2.16132
Acute Postpartum Pulmonary Edema in a 32-Year-Old Woman Five Days after Cesarean Delivery
Authors: Khan Masuda Islam , Ahmed Nasir Uddin , Khan Md. Shahabuddin
Published: September 2013

Acute dyspnea after pregnancy is a rare presentation, and a number of important conditions may accompany it. Pulmonary embolism, amniotic fluid embolism, pneumonia, aspiration and pulmonary edema are some of the potential causes that must be considered. The percentage of pregnancies that are complicated by acute pulmonary edema has been estimated 0.08%. The most common contributing factors include the administration of tocolytic agents, underlying cardiac disease, iatrogenic fluid overload and preeclampsia. Here we report a case of 32- year-old woman of 5th postpartum day following lower uterine cesarean section with acute dyspnea from her first pregnancy who was admitted in coronary care unit with history of one episode of raised blood pressure 160/90 mm Hg and cough on 1st postoperative day. Clinical examination and relevant investigations explored that it was a case of bilateral pulmonary edema. Patient was kept in ventilator and was treated with nitroglycerine (GTN), frusemide and ACE inhibitor. After diuresis, considerable improvement was observed in her respiratory status. From the 4th day, the patient became hemodynamically stable and was weaned off the ventilator. After five days, all the biochemical parameters became normal and she had no dyspnea. Journal of Enam Medical College; Vol 3 No 2 July 2013; Page 113-116 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jemc.v3i2.16135
Advances in Ileitis Control, Diagnosis, Epidemiology and the Economic Impacts of Disease in Commercial Pig Herds
Authors: Collins Alison
Published: September 2013

Proliferative enteropathy, commonly known as “ileitis” continues to be a significant production-limiting disease in pig herds throughout the world. The disease can be controlled with a combination of vaccination and antibiotic medication. However, pressure from consumers to reduce antibiotic use in livestock industries highlights the need to better understand the epidemiology of ileitis, the mechanisms of immunity, and to identify management factors that can reduce the load of Lawsonia intracellularis in both pigs and the environment. New diagnostic assays and economic modelling of ileitis will help producers target optimal treatment times and minimize the production losses associated with ileitis. This review aims to outline the current advances in disease diagnosis, epidemiology, control strategies and the economic impact of both clinical and sub-clinical disease.
siRNA Treatment: “A Sword-in-the-Stone” for Acute Brain Injuries
Authors: Fukuda Andrew , Badaut Jerome
Published: September 2013

Ever since the discovery of small interfering ribonucleic acid (siRNA) a little over a decade ago, it has been highly sought after for its potential as a therapeutic agent for many diseases. In this review, we discuss the promising possibility of siRNA to be used as a drug to treat acute brain injuries such as stroke and traumatic brain injury. First, we will give a brief and basic overview of the principle of RNA interference as an effective mechanism to decrease specific protein expression. Then, we will review recent in vivo studies describing siRNA research experiments/treatment options for acute brain diseases. Lastly, we will discuss the future of siRNA as a clinical therapeutic strategy against brain diseases and injuries, while addressing the current obstacles to effective brain delivery.
Synthesis and Characterizations of Melamine-Based Epoxy Resins
Authors: Ricciotti Laura , Roviello Giuseppina , Tarallo Oreste , Borbone Fabio , Ferone Claudio , Colangelo Francesco , Catauro Michelina , Cioffi Raffaele
Published: September 2013

A new, easy and cost-effective synthetic procedure for the preparation of thermosetting melamine-based epoxy resins is reported. By this innovative synthetic method, different kinds of resins can be obtained just by mixing the reagents in the presence of a catalyst without solvent and with mild curing conditions. Two types of resins were synthesized using melamine and a glycidyl derivative (resins I) or by adding a silane derivative (resin II). The resins were characterized by means of chemical-physical and thermal techniques. Experimental results show that all the prepared resins have a good thermal stability, but differ for their mechanical properties: resin I exhibits remarkable stiffness with a storage modulus value up to 830 MPa at room temperature, while lower storage moduli were found for resin II, indicating that the presence of silane groups could enhance the flexibility of these materials. The resins show a pot life higher than 30 min, which makes these resins good candidates for practical applications. The functionalization with silane terminations can be exploited in the formulation of hybrid organic-inorganic composite materials.
Self-Organizing Cyclolinear Organosilicon Polymers in Bulk and on the Surface of Water
Authors: Makarova Nataliya , Astapova Tat'yana , Buzin Alexander , Polishchuk Arkady , Chizhova Nataliya , Petrova Irina
Published: September 2013

yclolinear organocarbosiloxane polymers with varying content and location of (CH2)n groups in the monomer unit were synthesized by reactions of heterofunctional polycondensation and polyaddition of difunctional organocyclosiloxanes and organocyclocarbosiloxanes. Their bulk properties were studied by differential scanning calorimetry and X-ray structural analysis. It was shown that on introduction of CH2 groups into the methylcyclohexasiloxane unit, the polymer retains the ability to self-organize with formation of a mesomorphic state in a wide temperature range, while on introduction of (CH2)2 fragments in a cyclotetrasiloxane unit or in a bridge connecting two methylcyclotetra(hexa)siloxane units it does not. Comparison of the X-ray data of dihydroxy derivatives of decamethylcyclohexasiloxane and decamethyl-5-carbocyclohexasiloxane with packing of cyclolinear organosilicon polymers in bulk shows that the polymer inherits the layered type of crystalline structure typical for monomers. Langmuir films of cyclolinear polymethylcarbosiloxanes with different design of monomer units were studied as well. It was revealed that all polymers form monomolecular films at the air/water interface, excluding those having longer hydrophobic fragment than hydrophilic ones. The ability to form multilayers depends on the surroundings of Si atom in the bridge between the cycles.
Bicistronic Gene Transfer Tools for Delivery of miRNAs and Protein Coding Sequences
Authors: Stoller Michelle , Chang Henry , Fekete Donna
Published: September 2013

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a category of small RNAs that modulate levels of proteins via post-transcriptional inhibition. Currently, a standard strategy to overexpress miRNAs is as mature miRNA duplexes, although this method is cumbersome if multiple miRNAs need to be delivered. Many of these miRNAs are found within introns and processed through the RNA polymerase II pathway. We have designed a vector to exploit this naturally-occurring intronic pathway to deliver the three members of the sensory-specific miR-183 family from an artificial intron. In one version of the vector, the downstream exon encodes the reporter (GFP) while another version encodes a fusion protein created between the transcription factor Atoh1 and the hemaglutinin epitope, to distinguish it from endogenous Atoh1. In vitro analysis shows that the miRNAs contained within the artificial intron are processed and bind to their targets with specificity. The genes downstream are successfully translated into protein and identifiable through immunofluorescence. More importantly, Atoh1 is proven functional through in vitro assays. These results suggest that this cassette allows expression of miRNAs and proteins simultaneously, which provides the opportunity for joint delivery of specific translational repressors (miRNA) and possibly transcriptional activators (transcription factors). This ability is attractive for future gene therapy use.
Design of Phosphonium-Type Zwitterion as an Additive to Improve Saturated Water Content of Phase-Separated Ionic Liquid from Aqueous Phase toward Reversible Extraction of Proteins
Authors: Ito Yoritsugu , Kohno Yuki , Nakamura Nobuhumi , Ohno Hiroyuki
Published: September 2013

We designed phosphonium-type zwitterion (ZI) to control the saturated water content of separated ionic liquid (IL) phase in the hydrophobic IL/water biphasic systems. The saturated water content of separated IL phase, 1-butyl-3-methyimidazolium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide, was considerably improved from 0.4 wt% to 62.8 wt% by adding N,N,N-tripentyl-4-sulfonyl-1-butanephosphonium-type ZI (P555C4S). In addition, the maximum water content decreased from 62.8 wt% to 34.1 wt% by increasing KH2PO4/K2HPO4 salt content in upper aqueous phosphate buffer phase. Horse heart cytochrome c (cyt.c) was dissolved selectively in IL phase by improving the water content of IL phase, and spectroscopic analysis revealed that the dissolved cyt.c retained its higher ordered structure. Furthermore, cyt. c dissolved in IL phase was re-extracted again from IL phase to aqueous phase by increasing the concentration of inorganic salts of the buffer solution.
The Role of Initial Oligomers in Amyloid Fibril Formation by Human Stefin B
Authors: Taler-Verčič Ajda , Kirsipuu Tiina , Friedemann Merlin , Noormägi Andra , Polajnar Mira , Smirnova Julia , Žnidarič Magda , Žganec Matjaž , Škarabot Miha , Vilfan Andrej , Staniforth Rosemary , Palumaa Peep , Žerovnik Eva
Published: September 2013

Oligomers are commonly observed intermediates at the initial stages of amyloid fibril formation. They are toxic to neurons and cause decrease in neural transmission and long-term potentiation. We describe an in vitro study of the initial steps in amyloid fibril formation by human stefin B, which proved to be a good model system. Due to relative stability of the initial oligomers of stefin B, electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI MS) could be applied in addition to size exclusion chromatography (SEC). These two techniques enabled us to separate and detect distinguished oligomers from the monomers: dimers, trimers, tetramers, up to decamers. The amyloid fibril formation process was followed at different pH and temperatures, including such conditions where the process was slow enough to detect the initial oligomeric species at the very beginning of the lag phase and those at the end of the lag phase. Taking into account the results of the lower-order oligomers transformations early in the process, we were able to propose an improved model for the stefin B fibril formation.
Brevibacillus laterosporus, a Pathogen of Invertebrates and a Broad-Spectrum Antimicrobial Species
Authors: Ruiu Luca
Published: September 2013

Brevibacillus laterosporus, a bacterium characterized by the production of a unique canoe-shaped lamellar body attached to one side of the spore, is a natural inhabitant of water, soil and insects. Its biopesticidal potential has been reported against insects in different orders including Coleoptera, Lepidoptera, Diptera and against nematodes and mollusks. In addition to its pathogenicity against invertebrates, different B. laterosporus strains show a broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity including activity against phytopathogenic bacteria and fungi. A wide variety of molecules, including proteins and antibiotics, have been associated with the observed pathogenicity and mode of action. Before being considered as a biological control agent against plant pathogens, the antifungal and antibacterial properties of certain B. laterosporus strains have found medical interest, associated with the production of antibiotics with therapeutic effects. The recent whole genome sequencing of this species revealed its potential to produce polyketides, nonribosomal peptides, and toxins. Another field of growing interest is the use of this bacterium for bioremediation of contaminated sites by exploiting its biodegradation properties. The aim of the present review is to gather and discuss all recent findings on this emerging entomopathogen, giving a wider picture of its complex and broad-spectrum biocontrol activity.
Forefronting the Socio-Ecological in Savanna Landscapes through Their Spatial and Temporal Contingencies
Authors: Crews Kelley , Young Kenneth
Published: September 2013

Landscape changes and the processes driving them have been a critical component in both research and management efforts of savanna systems. These dynamics impact human populations, wildlife, carbon storage, and general spatio-temporal dynamism in response to both anthropomorphic and climatic shifts. Both biophysical and human agents of change can be identified by isolating their respective spatial, temporal, and organizational contingencies. However, we argue here that a significant portion of savanna research has either considered humans as exogenous (e.g., via enacting regional or broader policies) or somewhat spatio-temporally removed from the system (e.g., as in many protected areas with limited current human habitation). Examples from African savanna research and particularly those systems of southern Africa are thus reviewed and used to model a stylized or prototypical savanna system and contingencies. Such an approach allows for a richer socio-temporal integration of theories and data on past biophysical and human histories to facilitate an improved framework for understanding savanna systems and their complex contingencies as socio-ecological landscapes.
Understanding Bioluminescence in Dinoflagellates—How Far Have We Come?
Authors: Valiadi Martha , Iglesias-Rodriguez Debora
Published: September 2013

Some dinoflagellates possess the remarkable genetic, biochemical, and cellular machinery to produce bioluminescence. Bioluminescent species appear to be ubiquitous in surface waters globally and include numerous cosmopolitan and harmful taxa. Nevertheless, bioluminescence remains an enigmatic topic in biology, particularly with regard to the organisms’ lifestyle. In this paper, we review the literature on the cellular mechanisms, molecular evolution, diversity, and ecology of bioluminescence in dinoflagellates, highlighting significant discoveries of the last quarter of a century. We identify significant gaps in our knowledge and conflicting information and propose some important research questions that need to be addressed to advance this research field.
Synthesis, Evaluation of Antioxidant Activity and Crystal Structure of 2,4-Dimethylbenzoylhydrazones
Authors: Taha Muhammad , Ismail Nor , Jamil Waqas , Yousuf Sammer , Jaafar Faridahanim , Ali Muhammad , Kashif Syed , Hussain Ejaz
Published: September 2013

2,4-Dimethylbenzoylhydrazones 1–30 were synthesized by condensation reactions of 2,4-dimethylbenzoylhydrazide with various aromatic aldehydes and characterized. The assigned structures of compounds 10, 15 and 22 were further supported by single-crystal X-ray diffraction data. The synthesized compounds were evaluated for their in vitro DPPH radical scavenging activity. They exerted varying degree of scavenging activity toward DPPH radical with IC50 values between 25.6–190 µM. Compounds 1, 4, 2, 3, 7, and 6 have IC50 values of 25.6, 28.1, 29.3, 29.8, 30.0 and 30.1 µM respectively, showing better activity than an n-propyl gallate standard (IC50 value = 30.30 µM). For super oxide anion scavenging activity compounds 1, 2 and 3 with IC50 values of 98.3, 102.6, and 105.6, respectively, also showed better activity than the n-propyl gallate standard (IC50 value = 106.34 µM).
Impact of Organic and Inorganic Fertilizers Application on the Phytochemical and Antioxidant Activity of Kacip Fatimah (Labisia pumila Benth)
Authors: Ibrahim Mohd , Jaafar Hawa , Karimi Ehsan , Ghasemzadeh Ali
Published: September 2013

A study was conducted to compare secondary metabolites and antioxidant activity of Labisia pumila Benth (Kacip Fatimah) in response to two sources of fertilizer [i.e., organic (chicken dung; 10% N:10% P2O5:10% K2O) and inorganic fertilizer (NPK green; 15% N, 15% P2O5, 15% K2O)] under different N rates of 0, 90, 180 and 270 kg N/ha. The experiment was arranged in a randomized complete block design replicated three times. At the end of 15 weeks, it was observed that the application of organic fertilizer enhanced the production of total phenolics, flavonoids, ascorbic acid, saponin and gluthathione content in L. pumila, compared to the use of inorganic fertilizer. The nitrate content was also reduced under organic fertilization. The application of nitrogen at 90 kg N/ha improved the production of secondary metabolites in Labisia pumila. Higher rates in excess of 90 kg N/ha reduced the level of secondary metabolites and antioxidant activity of this herb. The DPPH and FRAP activity was also highest at 90 kg N/ha. The results indicated that the use of chicken dung can enhance the production of secondary metabolites and improve antioxidant activity of this herb.
Clinical Pharmacology of Furosemide in Neonates: A Review
Authors: Pacifici Gian
Published: September 2013

Furosemide is the diuretic most used in newborn infants. It blocks the Na+-K+-2Cl− symporter in the thick ascending limb of the loop of Henle increasing urinary excretion of Na+ and Cl−. This article aimed to review the published data on the clinical pharmacology of furosemide in neonates to provide a critical, comprehensive, authoritative and, updated survey on the metabolism, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics and side-effects of furosemide in neonates. The bibliographic search was performed using PubMed and EMBASE databases as search engines; January 2013 was the cutoff point. Furosemide half-life (t1/2) is 6 to 20-fold longer, clearance (Cl) is 1.2 to 14-fold smaller and volume of distribution (Vd) is 1.3 to 6-fold larger than the adult values. t1/2 shortens and Cl increases as the neonatal maturation proceeds. Continuous intravenous infusion of furosemide yields more controlled diuresis than the intermittent intravenous infusion. Furosemide may be administered by inhalation to infants with chronic lung disease to improve pulmonary mechanics. Furosemide stimulates prostaglandin E2 synthesis, a potent dilator of the patent ductus arteriosus, and the administration of furosemide to any preterm infants should be carefully weighed against the risk of precipitation of a symptomatic patent ductus arteriosus. Infants with low birthweight treated with chronic furosemide are at risk for the development of intra-renal calcifications.
Surface Roughness Measurement on a Wing Aircraft by Speckle Correlation
Authors: Salazar Félix , Barrientos Alberto
Published: September 2013

The study of the damage of aeronautical materials is important because it may change the microscopic surface structure profiles. The modification of geometrical surface properties can cause small instabilities and then a displacement of the boundary layer. One of the irregularities we can often find is surface roughness. Due to an increase of roughness and other effects, there may be extra momentum losses in the boundary layer and a modification in the parasite drag. In this paper we present a speckle method for measuring the surface roughness on an actual unmanned aircraft wing. The results show an inhomogeneous roughness distribution on the wing, as expected according to the anisotropic influence of the winds over the entire wing geometry. A calculation of the uncertainty of the technique is given.
Automatic Determination of Validity of Input Data Used in Ellipsoid Fitting MARG Calibration Algorithms
Authors: Olivares Alberto , Ruiz-Garcia Gonzalo , Olivares Gonzalo , Górriz Juan , Ramirez Javier
Published: September 2013

Ellipsoid fitting algorithms are widely used to calibrate Magnetic Angular Rate and Gravity (MARG) sensors. These algorithms are based on the minimization of an error function that optimizes the parameters of a mathematical sensor model that is subsequently applied to calibrate the raw data. The convergence of this kind of algorithms to a correct solution is very sensitive to input data. Input calibration datasets must be properly distributed in space so data can be accurately fitted to the theoretical ellipsoid model. Gathering a well distributed set is not an easy task as it is difficult for the operator carrying out the maneuvers to keep a visual record of all the positions that have already been covered, as well as the remaining ones. It would be then desirable to have a system that gives feedback to the operator when the dataset is ready, or to enable the calibration process in auto-calibrated systems. In this work, we propose two different algorithms that analyze the goodness of the distributions by computing four different indicators. The first approach is based on a thresholding algorithm that uses only one indicator as its input and the second one is based on a Fuzzy Logic System (FLS) that estimates the calibration error for a given calibration set using a weighted combination of two indicators. Very accurate classification between valid and invalid datasets is achieved with average Area Under Curve (AUC) of up to 0.98.
Low-Cost Ultrasonic Distance Sensor Arrays with Networked Error Correction
Authors: Dai Hongjun , Zhao Shulin , Jia Zhiping , Chen Tianzhou
Published: September 2013

Distance has been one of the basic factors in manufacturing and control fields, and ultrasonic distance sensors have been widely used as a low-cost measuring tool. However, the propagation of ultrasonic waves is greatly affected by environmental factors such as temperature, humidity and atmospheric pressure. In order to solve the problem of inaccurate measurement, which is significant within industry, this paper presents a novel ultrasonic distance sensor model using networked error correction (NEC) trained on experimental data. This is more accurate than other existing approaches because it uses information from indirect association with neighboring sensors, which has not been considered before. The NEC technique, focusing on optimization of the relationship of the topological structure of sensor arrays, is implemented for the compensation of erroneous measurements caused by the environment. We apply the maximum likelihood method to determine the optimal fusion data set and use a neighbor discovery algorithm to identify neighbor nodes at the top speed. Furthermore, we adopt the NEC optimization algorithm, which takes full advantage of the correlation coefficients for neighbor sensors. The experimental results demonstrate that the ranging errors of the NEC system are within 2.20%; furthermore, the mean absolute percentage error is reduced to 0.01% after three iterations of this method, which means that the proposed method performs extremely well. The optimized method of distance measurement we propose, with the capability of NEC, would bring a significant advantage for intelligent industrial automation.
Harmonization between a Framework of Multilateral Approaches to Nuclear Fuel Cycle Facilities and Bilateral Nuclear Cooperation Agreements
Authors: Tazaki Makiko , Kuno Yusuke
Published: September 2013

One of primary challenges for ensuring effective and efficient functions of the multilateral nuclear approaches (MNA) to nuclear fuel cycle facilities is harmonization between a MNA framework and existing nuclear cooperation agreements (NCA). A method to achieve such harmonization is to construct a MNA framework with robust non-proliferation characteristics, in order to obtain supplier states’, especially the US’s prior consents for non-supplier states’ certain activities including spent fuel reprocessing, plutonium storages and retransfers of plutonium originated in NCAs. Such robust characteristics can be accomplished by MNA member states’ compliances with International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Safeguards, regional safeguards agreements, international conventions, guidelines and recommendations on nuclear non-proliferation, nuclear security, safety, and export control. Those provisions are to be incorporated into an MNA founding agreement, as requirements to be MNA members in relation to NCAs. Furthermore, if an MNA facility is, (1) owned and operated jointly by all MNA member states, (2) able to conclude bilateral NCAs with non-MNA/supplier states as a single legal entity representing its all member states like an international organization, and (3) able to obtain necessary prior consents, stable, smooth, and timely supplies of nuclear fuel and services can be assured among MNA member states. In this paper, the authors will set out a general MNA framework and then apply it to a specific example of Europe Atomic Energy Community (EURATOM) and then consider its applicability to the Asian region, where an establishment of an MNA framework is expected to be explored.
Les ἀλλόφυλοι
Authors: Gascou Jean
Published: September 2013

In the Greek documentary papyri, the word ἀλλόφυλος does not mean « foreigner » but « grave-digger ».
Le Vase des Perses, le mythe et l'histoire
Authors: Tourraix Alexandre
Published: September 2013

The Darius Painter, a contemporary of Alexander, designed the whole decoration of the Darius vase (Naples 3253) in order to link Myth to History. The Lycian episode of Bellerophon's saga, depicted on the reverse of the vase, served to announce, for all eternity, Greece's right to exert sovereignty over Asia. On the obverse, Zeus promises victory to Hellas. The painter shows the result of the promise : the Greek represented on the lowest register, habitually identified as the Great King's treasurer, is in fact a representative of the Greeks to whom the Persians are paying allegiance. He therefore symbolizes Greco-Macedonian rule over the former Persian empire.
Un nuovo frammento pindarico dell'Inno ad Ammone? Pap. Vat. Gr. 11, col. VII 44-46 (Favorino, Sull'esilio)
Authors: Tepedino Guerra Adèle
Published: September 2013

L'investigation sur le Pap. Vat. Gr. 11, qui nous a transmis l'œuvre de Favorinus [Sur l'exile] a permis d'obtenir une nouvelle proposition de lecture qui éclaire le sens d'un fragment lyrique anonyme que l'on trouve cité à col. VII 44-46. En outre, l'analyse exégétique, linguistique et métrique du lieu poétique en suggère l'attribution à Pindare, peut-être à l'Hymne à Zeus Artimon.
Remarques autour de la classification des arts au chapitre I de la Poétique (1447 a 18-b 13)
Authors: Frazier Françoise
Published: September 2013

This study offers a tentative explanation of two much debated points in the first five chapters of Aristotle's Poetics : first and foremost the « Classification of the Arts » (Chapter one) and secondly the determination of the two natural causes of poetics (Chapter four). In the first passage, I contend that Aristotle attemps to isolate the « simple » arts that traditionally constitute the Greek mousikè : (instrumental) music, dance and litterature ; to this end he alters the customary definition of the first two arts while creating the third notion. The rhythm needn't be considered as a diacritical element in this distinction nor as an instrumental cause in
Théocrite, lecteur d'Euripide : l'exemple des Bacchantes
Authors: Cusset Christophe
Published: September 2013

L'Idylle XXVI de Théocrite doit être lue comme une réécriture des Bacchantes d'Euripide. Certes le poète alexandrin concentre fortement l'action tragique et réduit notamment le nombre des personnages. Mais il pratique dans le même temps différents prélèvements intertextuels sur le texte de la tragédie, particulièrement à propos de la désignation des personnages et dans l'utilisation de l'image de la lionne. La réécriture de Théocrite profite des indécisions et des alternatives du texte tragique lui-même pour élaborer ses propres variations.
Transplantation of Autologous Olfactory Ensheathing Cells in Complete Human Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Tabakow Pawel , Jarmundowicz Wlodzimierz , Czapiga Bogdan , Fortuna Wojciech , Miedzybrodzki Ryszard , Czyz Marcin , Huber Juliusz , Szarek Dariusz , Okurowski Stefan , Szewczyk Pawel , Gorski Andrzej , Raisman Geoffrey
Published: September 2013

Numerous studies in animals have shown the unique property of olfactory ensheathing cells to stimulate regeneration of lesioned axons in the spinal cord. In a Phase I clinical trial, we assessed the safety and feasibility of transplantation of autologous mucosal olfactory ensheathing cells and olfactory nerve fibroblasts in patients with complete spinal cord injury. Six patients with chronic thoracic paraplegia (American Spinal Injury Association class A-ASIA A) were enrolled for the study. Three patients were operated, and three served as a control group. The trial protocol consisted of pre- and postoperative neurorehabilitation, olfactory mucosal biopsy, culture of olfactory ensheathing cells, and intraspinal cell grafting. Patient's clinical state was evaluated by clinical, neurophysiological, and radiological tests. There were no adverse findings related to olfactory mucosa biopsy or transplantation of olfactory ensheathing cells at 1 year after surgery. There was no evidence of neurological deterioration, neuropathic pain, neuroinfection, or tumorigenesis. In one cell-grafted patient, an asymptomatic syringomyelia was observed. Neurological improvement was observed only in transplant recipients. The first two operated patients improved from ASIA A to ASIA C and ASIA B. Diffusion tensor imaging showed restitution of continuity of some white matter tracts throughout the focus of spinal cord injury in these patients. The third operated patient, although remaining ASIA A, showed improved motor and sensory function of the first spinal cords segments below the level of injury. Neurophysiological examinations showed improvement in spinal cord transmission and activity of lower extremity muscles in surgically treated patients but not in patients receiving only neurorehabilitation. Observations at 1 year indicate that the obtaining, culture, and intraspinal transplantation of autologous olfactory ensheathing cells were safe and feasible. The significance of the neurological improvement in the transplant recipients and the extent to which the cell transplants contributed to it will require larger numbers of patients.