bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Morphologic analysis of periumbilical nevi
Authors: Nicolau Antonela-Anca , Așchie Mariana
Published: October 2013

A large number of publications recognize that there are melanocytic lesions with microscopic features similar to melanoma, related to their location, with no prognostic importance. Those locations are represented by the ear, the milk lines (axillary, breast, periumbilical and inguinal regions), palms, soles and flexural regions. The periumbilical nevi are included by some authors in the category of the flexural nevi. In 2004, Rongioletti et al., performed a study on a number of 101 breast nevi, considering 10 histologic parameters. Starting from Rongioletti’s study we measured 10 histologic parameters on 121 nevi (26 from the periunmbilical area) and notes with 0 if absent or impossible to evaluate and with 1 if present. The score for each lesion ranged from 0 to 6 and we compared the features of the periumbilical nevi with the nevi from the control sites and found that the ones in the periumbilical area have more frequently atypical features than the nevi from the other sites (lemtiginous proliferation of nevus cells, architectural disorder of the nevus cell nests and stromal reactions as dermal fibroplasias and dermal lymphocytic infiltrate). We also performed immunohistochemical examination on lesions that presented three or more of the examined histologic parameters, but the results were not very suggestive. The conclusion of this study is that the atypical features of the breast nevi are only site related atypias and have no hormonal influences
Stelis anagraciae (Orchidaceae), a new pleurothallid species from Guatemala
Authors: Archila Morales Fredy L. , Szlachetko Dariusz L.
Published: October 2013

A new species of the orchid genus Stelis Sw. - S. anagraciae Archila & Szlach. - from Guatemala is described and illustrated.
A new locality of Solidago ×niederederi Khek (Asteraceae) in Poland
Authors: Pliszko Artur
Published: October 2013

Solidago ×niederederi is a natural hybrid between S. canadensis and S. virgaurea, which occurs sporadically in synanthropic habitats together with the parental species. The hybrid was reported from seven countries in Central and Northern Europe and its presence emphasizes the invasive character of S. canadensis. A new locality of the hybrid was found in Mieruniszki village in the Zachodniosuwalskie Lakeland in NE Poland in 2011 (ATPOL square: FB06). Solidago ×niederederi grew on fallow land, at the edge of planted birchen shrubbery and its population comprised two small clumps. Current data suggest that the hybrid is a casual alien in the Polish flora, however, it has the potential to become established by clonal growth or restricted sexual reproduction.
Variability of Anthoxanthum species in Poland in relation to geographical-historical and environmental conditions: isozyme variation
Authors: Drapikowska Maria
Published: October 2013

Variation of 9 isozyme systems was studied in Polish populations of 3 species of the genus Anthoxanthum: the native A. odoratum s. str. L. and A. alpinum Á. Löve & D. Löve, as well as the alien A. aristatum Boiss. Results of this study show that A. odoratum is characterized by a high isozyme variability of lowland populations, weakly correlated with habitat type, and partial genetic distinctness of montane populations. Moreover, 5 isozyme markers have been identified (Pgi-2, Dia-2, Mdh, Idh, Pgm) for the allopolyploid A. odoratum. Populations of A. aristatum are highly polymorphic (P = 98%). The observed isozyme differentiation of its populations (FST = 0.087) is low and gene flow between them (Nm = 5.314) is high. The genetic variation reflects environmental variation only to a small extent and is not significantly related to the phase of chorological expansion of this species. Altitudinal vicariants, A. alpinum and A. odoratum, are characterized by morphological and isozymatic distinctness, indicating their reproductive isolation. In populations of A. alpinum, polymorphism is high (P = 76.92%), differentiation among populations is moderate (FST = 0.198), and gene flow between populations along the altitudinal transect (Nm = 1.709) is relatively low
Distant metastasis of rectal adenocarcinoma in a temporary tracheostoma
Authors: Sifrer Robert , Strojan Primoz , Zidar Nina , Zargi Miha , Krajinovic Milena
Published: October 2013

Background. The temporary tracheostoma’s metastases of head and neck cancer had already been reported in the literature. So far, they had been considered as regional dissemination of the malignant disease. We report a case of temporary tracheostoma’s metastasis of carcinoma from non-head-and-neck primary site, what has not been reported in the literature, yet. Therefore, it is the first reported case of the systemic dissemination of malignant tumour into temporary tracheostoma.

Case report. Fifty-four-year-old female patient, previously treated for a rectal adenocarcinoma, reported in our office with exophytic pink tissue masses around the temporary tracheostoma. The biopsy and immunohistochemistry findings were consistent with temporary tracheostoma’s metastasis of the rectal adenocarcinoma. The patient received palliative radiotherapy and died of systemic progression of the disease.

Conclusions. The patients with history of primary cancer of any origin and exophytic proliferating changes around the tracheostoma require an appropriate diagnostic work-up including a biopsy. The type of treatment depends on the extent of the disease, previous therapy and general condition of the patient
Food Adulteration and its Effect on Health
Authors: Khan MK
Published: October 2013

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/cbmj.v2i2.16690 Community Based Medical Journal 2013 July: Vol.02 No 02: 1-3
A Clinical Study on socio-demographic background in Ruptured Uterus Cases
Authors: Roy N , Nahar K , Sarker UK , Beg A , Dhar S , Roy J , Chakrabarty R
Published: October 2013

A study of 72 cases of uterine rupture out of total 5984 deliveries(including 3619 caesarean sections) over 1 year (from Sep. 2006 to Aug 2007) in the dept. of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Mymensingh Medical College Hospital was reported. This gives an incidence of uterine rupture 1: 83. The results showed that, this was a common obstetric emergency & was a major cause of maternal & foetal deaths. Study showed that, 87.5% came from rural areas where facility was not available, 79% were of poor socio-economic condition .All rupture uterus cases (100%)was house wife. Peak age was between 20-30 years (68%). Among all rupture cases, 72.22% cases were between gravida 2nd to 4th,and 19.44% cases were gravida 5th or above & only 8.33% cases were Primigravida, Most of the patients(56%) were illiterate. 46% of cases had no antenatal checkup during their pregnancies. 51.38% cases labour pain lasting>16 hours. Most of the mishandled cases (66.67%) were exposed to injudicious use of uterotonic drugs before admission. Most of the cases (38.9%) handled by untrained birth attendants. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/cbmj.v2i2.16692 Community Based Medical Journal 2013 July: Vol.02 No 02: 9-14
Atopic eczema and allergies: Practical relevance for diagnostic work-up
Authors: Prucha Hanna , Chen Wenchieh , Traidl-Hoffmann Claudia , Todorova Antonia , Akdis Cezmi , Lauener Roger , Ring Johannes
Published: October 2013

Atopic eczema (AE) is a chronic relapsing skin disease mostly starting in childhood and often associated with allergic asthma and rhinoconjunctivitis. In the etiopathophysiology of atopic eczema skin barrier disturbance and immune deviation with a predominant Th2 response and IgE production are central. Allergy tests belong to the diagnostic work-up of AE patients, first in order to differentiate between the extrinsic (IgE-associated) from the intrinsic (non-IgE-associated) form of the disease. Essntially allergy tests are mandatory in order to find individual provocation factors for exacerbation or maintenance of eczema. These allergy tests include skin prick test (SPT), radio-allergo-sorbent test (RAST) for specific IgE antibodies against common allergens and APT. Since numerous AE patients suffer from contact allergy, therefore classical patch testing is mandatory. Although SPT and RAST have a quite high sensitivity, but the specificity of APT is much higher; revealing the fact that by APT the relevance of a certain allergen for the actual skin disease can be confidently evaluated. In suspected food allergy the gold standard is still double-blind placebo-controlled oral provocation test which should be performed in a symptom-free period after an individual elimination diet and under emergency conditions, since anaphylactic reactions may occur in AE patients. In the long-term management of AE patients educational programs eczema school have proved to be helpful. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/cbmj.v2i2.16693 Community Based Medical Journal 2013 July: Vol.02 No 02: 15-24
Evaluation of Response of Parenteral Dexamethasone in Pemphigus Vulgaris
Authors: Uddin M Jamal , Maidul AZMI , Eakub MA , Wahab MA , Khondker L
Published: October 2013

A clinical trial was carried out in the Department of Dermatology and Venereology, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Dhaka. The total number of patients was thirty and among them fifteen patients were treated with injection dexamethasone (Group-A) and other fifteen were treated with oral prednisolone (Group-B). The study showed that in Group-A, on admission and after 6 weeks, the mean number (±SD) of skin lesion of pemphigus was 36.87±8.40 and 5.27±1.624 respectively. In Group-B, on admission and after 6 weeks, the mean number (±SD) of skin lesion of pemphigus was 36.27±8.980 and 7.73±1.007 respectively. The study also observed that in group-A, on admission and after 6 weeks, the mean number (±SD) of mucous membrane lesion of pemphigus was 3.40±2.633 and 1.00±0.926 respectively. In Group-B, on admission and after 6 weeks, the mean number (±SD) of mucous membrane lesion of pemphigus was 3.33±2.225 and 1.87±1.246 respectively. Statistically significant improvement was observed in both groups in all clinical parameter after 6 weeks. Dexamethasone group showed statistically higher significant improvement than prednisolone group in all clinical parameter except Nikolskys sign. Injection dexamethasone appears to be more effective than oral prednisolone in early management of pemphigus vulgaris. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/cbmj.v2i2.16694 Community Based Medical Journal 2013 July: Vol.02 No 02: 25-29
Management of Nonunion of Tibia by Ilizarov Technique
Authors: Haque MA , Islam SM , Chowdhury MR
Published: October 2013

This prospective study was carried out during the period of January 2007 to December 2011 in Mymensingh Medical College Hospital and other private clinics of Mymensingh town to assess the results of Ilizarov technice for nonunion of the tibia. Here total operated patient were 30, of them 24 were male and 6 were female. 10 cases are hypertrophic, 8 cases are atrophic and 12 cases are infected nonunion. In this series age of the patients was 10 ? 60 years. Motor vehicle accident was the commonest cause of fracture found in 66.67% cases. Second most common cause of injury was fall from height. Among 30 patients proximal corticotomy was done in 24 patient and distal corticomy in 2 patient. Union time was 4-12 months. Among 30 patients 27 were united at initial procedure. From nonunited 3 cases again refreshening of the ends along with bone grafting was done and ultimately 2 were united and 1 remains nonunited. In this series limb length discrepancy reduced to maximum 1.5 cm with contralateral limbs. Average total hospital stay was 15 days. Pin site infection and pain were the commonest complications in our study. Close adherences to Ilizarov principles make it now possible to successfully treat a most of orthopaedic conditions that previously were fraught with high morbidity rates and poor results. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/cbmj.v2i2.16697 Community Based Medical Journal 2013 July: Vol.02 No 02: 41-45
Comparative side-effects of adapalene and benzoyl peroxide combination gel with Adapalene monotherapy and Benzoylperoxide monotherapy in the treatment of Acne vulgaris
Authors: Islam KA , Akhtar N , Shahidullah M , Khondker L , Khan MSI
Published: October 2013

A controlled clinical trial was conducted in the department of Dermatology and Venereology, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka, Bangladesh to compare the side-effects of adapalene and benzoyl peroxide combination gel with adapalene monotherapy and benzoyl peroxide monotherapy in the treatment of acne vulgaris. The study conducted in sixty patients. Group A (case) 20 patients were treated with adapalene and benzoyl peroxide combination gel, group B (control) 20 patients were treated with topical adapalene and group C (control) 20 patients were treated with topical benzoyl peroxide. The side effects experienced by patients of different groups in their first follow up were noticed. In group A - erythema, scaling, dryness, burning and pruritus were present in 45%, 10%, 35%, 40% and 10% of patients and in group B, 35%, 25%, 30%, 35% and 15% respectively. However in group C dryness and pruritus were absent in all the patients and the erythema, scaling and burning were 30%, 25% and 25% respectively. In 5th follow-up visit, in group A- erythema, scaling, dryness and pruritus were present in 15%, 5%, 15%, and 5% of patients respectively and burning was absent in group A. In group B erythema, scaling, dryness, and pruritus were 15%, 5%, 5% and 5% and burning was absent in group B. However in group C scaling, burning, dryness and pruritus were absent in all the patients. Erythema was present in 10% cases in 5th follow-up visit. It was evidenced in the present study that the overall adverse effect is slightly higher with the adapalene- benzoyl peroxide combination therapy in relation to the adapalene and benzoyl peroxide (BPO) monotherapies in the treatment of acne vulgaris. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/cbmj.v2i2.16699 Community Based Medical Journal 2013 July: Vol.02 No 02: 52-56
Association of other Autoimmune Diseases in Vitiligo Patients
Authors: Babar ZUM , Alam M , Khondker L , Siddiqua A , Alam MN , Imdad TI
Published: October 2013

A cross sectional study of thirty eight vitiligo patients attending at the outpatients was conducted. The result revealed generalized presentation in 53.6% cases followed by focal presentation, acro-facial and segmented presentation which were 26.3% cases, 15.8%cases and 5.3% cases. Progressive type was found in majority of cases which were 71.1% cases followed by stable case which was 39.9% cases and positive family history was found in 36.8% cases in our study. Among 38 vitiligo patients highest number of associated autoimmune disease was the thyroid abnormalities of which hypothyroidism was 15.8% and hyperthyroidism was 7.9% cases respectively. Diabetes mellitus was found in 2.6% cases, Addisons disease and SLE were found in 2.6%case each. No autoimmune disease was found in the rest 68.5% cases. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/cbmj.v2i2.16700 Community Based Medical Journal 2013 July: Vol.02 No 02: 57-61
A study on comparison of hematological, autonomic and respiratory parameters in male drinkers and non-drinkers of Karukutty village, Kerala
Authors: Kumar SS , Angel J , Elsa M , Usha R , Mukkadan JK
Published: October 2013

The present study was undertaken to compare hematological, autonomic and respiratory parameters in male drinkers and non- drinkers to create awareness and to popularize the knowledge of good/bad effects of drinking. Two hundred and twenty two males with mean age 32±4 were involved in this study comprising of 110 chronic drinkers and 112 non-drinkers, who served as controls. Bleeding time was estimated by Duke Method clotting time was estimated by capillary tube method. Measurement of blood pressure was performed by using sphygmomanometry. Pulse Oximeter was used to measure saturation of hemoglobin (SPo2) and pulse rate. The analysis of data was done by SPSS 20.0. Mean bleeding time was higher in drinkers than non-drinkers. In contrast Clotting time was lower in drinkers. Systolic and diastolic pressure was almost equal in drinkers and non-drinkers. Pulse rate was slightly higher in drinkers than non-drinkers. SPo2 was equal in both drinkers and non-drinkers. We conclude that alcohol prolongs bleeding time and shortens clotting time, however this is contradictory. Alcohol enhances pulse rate may be by decreasing vagal activity and increasing sympathetic activity. Though alcohol causes vasodilation, we havent observed any change in blood pressure.Inspite of the fact alcohol consumption effects Spo2, no change is observed in spo2 in our study. Hence this study merits continuing with higher sample size. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/cbmj.v2i2.16701 Community Based Medical Journal 2013 July: Vol.02 No 02: 62-66
Intra-abdominal desmoplastic small round cell tumour
Authors: Ansari NP , Mamun MA , Islam MS , Begum A
Published: October 2013

Intra-abdominal desmoplastic small round cell tumour (DSRCT) is a rare and highly aggressive malignant neoplasm with a strong predilection in young male adults. and frequently presents as a large abdominal mass .Here, we present a case of DSRCT in a 40 years male with mild ascitis. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/cbmj.v2i2.16704 Community Based Medical Journal 2013 July: Vol.02 No 02: 75-77
Moya Moya disease: Report of 2 cases and review of literature
Authors: Showkat MS , Nuruzzaman S , Datta A
Published: October 2013

Moya moya disease is a chronic cerebral vasculopathy characterized by progressive occlusion of circle of Willis arteries that leads to development of collateral vessel which has a characteristic puff of smoke appearance on imaging. Here we described 2 cases, both were young and presented with history of stroke and repeated headache. In Magnetic Resonance Angiogram (MRA), we found marked narrowing in internal carotid, anterior, middle and posterior cerebral artery with multiple collaterals producing puff of smoke appearence which is the diagnostic imaging feature of Moya Moya disease. This is an important cause of repeated stroke in young patients. So physicians should be aware of this clinical entity. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/cbmj.v2i2.16705 Community Based Medical Journal 2013 July: Vol.02 No 02: 77-80
Corrigendum Vol.2(1)
Authors: Editor The
Published: October 2013

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/cbmj.v2i2.16706 Community Based Medical Journal 2013 July: Vol.02 No 02: 81
Musicality and the Limits of Meaning in Wordsworth and Kant
Authors: Freer Alexander
Published: October 2013

I argue that the difficulty Kant encounters in evaluating music in the third Critique is caused by his problematic attempt to separate sound (the physical phenomenon) from meaning. Analogously, Wordsworth attempts in the Preface to divide metrical pleasure and the feeling derived from the semantic meaning of poems. In both cases, this separation can be overcome by a radical, Romantic understanding of musicality, whereby music not only participates in meaning but becomes its grounds. While this remains latent in Kant, Wordsworth's ‘Tintern Abbey’ can assert the centrality of listening to thinking, which has important implications for his poetics.
Sustainable Utility of Magnetically Recyclable Nano-Catalysts in Water: Applications in Organic Synthesis
Authors: Gawande Manoj , Rathi Anuj , Branco Paula , Varma Rajender
Published: October 2013

Magnetically recyclable nano-catalysts and their use in aqueous media is a perfect combination for the development of greener sustainable methodologies in organic synthesis. It is well established that magnetically separable nano-catalysts avoid waste of catalysts or reagents and it is possible to recover >95% of catalysts, which is again recyclable for subsequent use. Water is the ideal medium to perform the chemical reactions with magnetically recyclable nano-catalysts, as this combination adds tremendous value to the overall benign reaction process development. In this review, we highlight recent developments inthe use of water and magnetically recyclable nano-catalysts (W-MRNs) for a variety of organic reactions namely hydrogenation, condensation, oxidation, and Suzuki–Miyaura cross-coupling reactions, among others.
The Role of the Bacterial Flagellum in Adhesion and Virulence
Authors: Haiko Johanna , Westerlund-Wikström Benita
Published: October 2013

The bacterial flagellum is a complex apparatus assembled of more than 20 different proteins. The flagellar basal body traverses the cell wall, whereas the curved hook connects the basal body to the whip-like flagellar filament that protrudes several µm from the bacterial cell. The flagellum has traditionally been regarded only as a motility organelle, but more recently it has become evident that flagella have a number of other biological functions. The major subunit, flagellin or FliC, of the flagellum plays a well-documented role in innate immunity and as a dominant antigen of the adaptive immune response. Importantly, flagella have also been reported to function as adhesins. Whole flagella have been indicated as significant in bacterial adhesion to and invasion into host cells. In various pathogens, e.g., Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Clostridium difficile, flagellin and/or the distally located flagellar cap protein have been reported to function as adhesins. Recently, FliC of Shiga-toxigenic E. coli was shown to be involved in cellular invasion via lipid rafts. Here, we examine the latest or most important findings regarding flagellar adhesive and invasive properties, especially focusing on the flagellum as a potential virulence factor.
Psychological Distress and Post-Traumatic Symptoms Following Occupational Accidents
Authors: Ghisi Marta , Novara Caterina , Buodo Giulia , Kimble Matthew , Scozzari Simona , Natale Arianna , Sanavio Ezio , Palomba Daniela
Published: October 2013

Depression and post-traumatic stress disorder frequently occur as a consequence of occupational accidents. To date, research has been primarily focused on high-risk workers, such as police officers or firefighters, and has rarely considered individuals whose occupational environment involves the risk of severe, but not necessarily life-threatening, injury. Therefore, the present study was aimed at assessing the psychological consequences of accidents occurring in several occupational settings (e.g., construction and industry). Thirty-eight victims of occupational accidents (injured workers) and 38 gender-, age-, and years of education-matched workers who never experienced a work accident (control group) were recruited. All participants underwent a semi-structured interview administered by a trained psychologist, and then were requested to fill in the questionnaires. Injured workers reported more severe anxious, post-traumatic and depressive symptoms, and poorer coping skills, as compared to controls. In the injured group low levels of resilience predicted post-traumatic symptomatology, whereas the degree of physical injury and the length of time since the accident did not play a predictive role. The results suggest that occupational accidents may result in a disabling psychopathological condition, and that a brief psychological evaluation should be included in the assessment of seriously injured workers.
On the Diversity Constraints for Portfolio Optimization
Authors: Lin Jun-Lin
Published: October 2013

In the literature, Markowitz’s mean-variance model and its variants have been shown to yield portfolios that put excessive weights on only a few assets. Many diversity constraints were proposed and added to these models to avoid such overly concentrated portfolios. However, since these diversity constraints are formulated differently, it becomes difficult to compare them and study their relationships. This paper proposes a canonical form for the commonly used diversity constraints in the literature, and shows how to transform these diversity constraints into this canonical form. Furthermore, this paper compares these diversity constraints (in the canonical form with the same upper bound) on their ability to shrink the feasible region of the portfolio optimization problem. The results show a subset relation among their feasible regions.
Color Differences between Clockwise and Counterclockwise Spiral Galaxies
Authors: Shamir Lior
Published: October 2013

While spiral galaxies observed from Earth clearly seem to spin in different directions, little is yet known about other differences between galaxies that spin clockwise and galaxies that spin counterclockwise. Here we compared the color of 64,399 spiral galaxies that spin clockwise to 63,215 spiral galaxies that spin counterclockwise. The results show that clockwise galaxies tend to be bluer than galaxies that spin counterclockwise. The probability that the color differences can be attributed to chance is ~0.019. g-r, r-i and i-z did not show significant differences between clockwise and counterclockwise galaxies.
Nickel and Epigenetic Gene Silencing
Authors: Sun Hong , Shamy Magdy , Costa Max
Published: October 2013

Insoluble nickel compounds are well-established human carcinogens. Occupational exposure to these compounds leads to increased incidence of lung and nasal cancer in nickel refinery workers. Apart from its weak mutagenic activity and hypoxia mimicking effect there is mounting experimental evidence indicating that epigenetic alteration plays an important role in nickel-induced carcinogenesis. Multiple epigenetic mechanisms have been identified to mediate nickel-induced gene silencing. Nickel ion is able to induce heterochromatinization by binding to DNA-histone complexes and initiating chromatin condensation. The enzymes required for establishing or removing epigenetic marks can be targeted by nickel, leading to altered DNA methylation and histone modification landscapes. The current review will focus on the epigenetic changes that contribute to nickel-induced gene silencing.
Suitability of Optical, Physical and Chemical Measurements for Detection of Changes in Bacterial Drinking Water Quality
Authors: Ikonen Jenni , Pitkänen Tarja , Miettinen Ilkka
Published: October 2013

In this study, different optical, physical and chemical measurements were tested for their capacity to detect changes in water quality. The tests included UV-absorbance at 254 nm, absorbance at 420 nm, turbidity, particle counting, temperature, pH, electric conductivity (EC), free chlorine concentration and ATP concentration measurements. Special emphasis was given to investigating the potential for measurement tools to detect changes in bacterial concentrations in drinking water. Bacterial colony counts (CFU) and total bacterial cell counts (TBC) were used as reference methods for assessing the bacterial water quality. The study consists of a series of laboratory scale experiments: monitoring of regrowth of Pseudomonas fluorescens, estimation of the detection limits for optical measurements using Escherichia coli dilutions, verification of the relationships by analysing grab water samples from various distribution systems and utilisation of the measurements in the case of an accidentally contaminated distribution network. We found significant correlations between the tested measurements and the bacterial water quality. As the bacterial contamination of water often co-occurs with the intrusion of matrixes containing mainly non-bacterial components, the tested measurement tools can be considered to have the potential to rapidly detect any major changes in drinking water quality.
The Role of Crowded Physiological Environments in Prion and Prion-like Protein Aggregation
Authors: Ma Qian , Hu Ji-Ying , Chen Jie , Liang Yi
Published: October 2013

Prion diseases and prion-like protein misfolding diseases are related to the accumulation of abnormal aggregates of the normal host proteins including prion proteins and Tau protein. These proteins possess self-templating and transmissible characteristics. The crowded physiological environments where the aggregation of these amyloidogenic proteins takes place can be imitated in vitro by the addition of macromolecular crowding agents such as inert polysaccharides. In this review, we summarize the aggregation of prion proteins in crowded physiological environments and discuss the role of macromolecular crowding in prion protein aggregation. We also summarize the aggregation of prion-like proteins including human Tau protein, human α-synuclein, and human copper, zinc superoxide dismutase under macromolecular crowding environments and discuss the role of macromolecular crowding in prion-like protein aggregation. The excluded-volume effects caused by macromolecular crowding could accelerate the aggregation of neurodegenerative disease-associated proteins while inhibiting the aggregation of the proteins that are not neurodegenerative disease-associated.
Correlation of Gas Permeability in a Metal-Organic Framework MIL-101(Cr)–Polysulfone Mixed-Matrix Membrane with Free Volume Measurements by Positron Annihilation Lifetime Spectroscopy (PALS)
Authors: Jeazet Harold , Koschine Tönjes , Staudt Claudia , Raetzke Klaus , Janiak Christoph
Published: October 2013

Hydrothermally stable particles of the metal-organic framework MIL-101(Cr) were incorporated into a polysulfone (PSF) matrix to produce mixed-matrix or composite membranes with excellent dispersion of MIL-101 particles and good adhesion within the polymer matrix. Pure gas (O2, N2, CO2 and CH4) permeation tests showed a significant increase of gas permeabilities of the mixed-matrix membranes without any loss in selectivity. Positron annihilation lifetime spectroscopy (PALS) indicated that the increased gas permeability is due to the free volume in the PSF polymer and the added large free volume inside the MIL-101 particles. The trend of the gas transport properties of the composite membranes could be reproduced by a Maxwell model.
Advances in Nutritional Research on Regulatory T-Cells
Authors: Kim Wooki , Lee Hyungjae
Published: October 2013

Many clinical and animal studies have shown that certain dietary components exert anti-inflammatory properties that aid in the amelioration of chronic inflammatory diseases. Among the various proposed channels through which dietary components affect immune responses, regulatory T-cells (Tregs) are emerging as key targets for the dietary prevention of chronic inflammatory diseases. In this review, immunoregulation by Tregs is briefly described, followed by a summary of recent advances and possible applications of techniques for the study of Tregs. In addition, this review provides an overview of the current knowledge on Treg regulation by certain dietary components, including vitamins, omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, and polyphenols. The caveats of previous studies are also discussed in order to highlight the distinctions between dietary studies and immunological approaches. Consequently, this review may help to clarify the means by which nutritional components influence Tregs.
Terahertz Pulsed Imaging and Magnetic Resonance Imaging as Tools to Probe Formulation Stability
Authors: Zhang Qilei , Gladden Lynn , Avalle Paolo , Zeitler J. , Mantle Michael
Published: October 2013

Dissolution stability over the entire shelf life duration is of critical importance to ensure the quality of solid dosage forms. Changes in the drug release profile during storage may affect the bioavailability of drug products. This study investigated the stability of a commercial tablet (Lescolr XL) when stored under accelerated conditions (40 oC/75% r.h.). Terahertz pulsed imaging (TPI) was used to investigate the structure of the tablet coating before and after the accelerated aging process. The results indicate that the coating was reduced in thickness and exhibited a higher density after being stored under accelerated conditions for four weeks. In situ magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the water penetration processes during tablet dissolution in a USP-IV dissolution cell equipped with an in-line UV-vis analyzer was carried out to study local differences in water uptake into the tablet matrix between the stressed and unstressed state. The drug release profiles of the Lescolr XL tablet before and after the accelerated storage stability testing were compared using a “difference” factor ∫1 and a “similarity” factor ∫2. The results reveal that even though the physical properties of the coating layers changed significantly during the stress testing, the coating protected the tablet matrix and the densification of the coating polymer had no adverse effect on the drug release performance.
Ten-Year Landsat Classification of Deforestation and Forest Degradation in the Brazilian Amazon
Authors: Souza, Jr Carlos , Siqueira João , Sales Marcio , Fonseca Antônio , Ribeiro Júlia , Numata Izaya , Cochrane Mark , Barber Christopher , Roberts Dar , Barlow Jos
Published: October 2013

Forest degradation in the Brazilian Amazon due to selective logging and forest fires may greatly increase the human footprint beyond outright deforestation. We demonstrate a method to quantify annual deforestation and degradation simultaneously across the entire region for the years 2000–2010 using high-resolution Landsat satellite imagery. Combining spectral mixture analysis, normalized difference fraction index, and knowledge-based decision tree classification, we mapped and assessed the accuracy to quantify forest (0.97), deforestation (0.85) and forest degradation (0.82) with an overall accuracy of 0.92. We show that 169,074 km2 of Amazonian forest was converted to human-dominated land uses, such as agriculture, from 2000 to 2010. In that same time frame, an additional 50,815 km2 of forest was directly altered by timber harvesting and/or fire, equivalent to 30% of the area converted by deforestation. While average annual outright deforestation declined by 46% between the first and second halves of the study period, annual forest degradation increased by 20%. Existing operational monitoring systems (PRODES: Monitoramento da Florestal Amazônica Brasileira por Satélite) report deforestation area to within 2% of our results, but do not account for the extensive forest degradation occurring throughout the region due to selective logging and forest fire. Annual monitoring of forest degradation across tropical forests is critical for developing land management policies as well as the monitoring of carbon stocks/emissions and protected areas.
Plastic Optical Fibre Sensor for Spine Bending Monitoring with Power Fluctuation Compensation
Authors: Zawawi Mohd , O'Keeffe Sinead , Lewis Elfed
Published: October 2013

This paper presents the implementation of power fluctuation compensation for an intensity-based optical fibre bending sensor aimed at monitoring human spine bending in a clinical environment. To compensate for the light intensity changes from the sensor light source, a reference signal was provided via the light reflection from an aluminum foil surface fixed at a certain distance from the source fibre end tips. From the results, it was found that the investigated sensor compensation technique was capable of achieving a 2° resolution for a bending angle working range between 0° and 20°. The study also suggested that the output voltage ratio has a 0.55% diversion due to input voltage variation between 2.9 V and 3.4 V and a 0.25% output drift for a 2 h measurement. With the achieved sensor properties, human spine monitoring in a clinical environment can potentially be implemented using this approach with power fluctuation compensation.
Temporal and Spatial Properties of a Yeast Multi-Cellular Amplification System Based on Signal Molecule Diffusion
Authors: Jahn Michael , Mölle Annett , Rödel Gerhard , Ostermann Kai
Published: October 2013

We report on the spatial and temporal signaling properties of a yeast pheromone-based cell communication and amplifier system. It utilizes the Saccharomyces cerevisiae mating response pathway and relies on diffusion of the pheromone α–factor as key signaling molecule between two cell types. One cell type represents the α–factor secreting sensor part and the other the reporter part emitting fluorescence upon activation. Although multi-cellular signaling systems promise higher specificity and modularity, the complex interaction of the cells makes prediction of sensor performance difficult. To test the maximum distance and response time between sensor and reporter cells, the two cell types were spatially separated in defined compartments of agarose hydrogel (5 ´ 5 mm) and reconnected by diffusion of the yeast pheromone. Different ratios of sensor to reporter cells were tested to evaluate the minimum amount of sensor cells required for signal transduction. Even the smallest ratio, one α–factor-secreting cell to twenty reporter cells, generated a distinct fluorescence signal. When using a 1:1 ratio, the secreted pheromone induced fluorescence in a distance of up to four millimeters after six hours. We conclude from both our experimental results and a mathematical diffusion model that in our approach: (1) the maximum dimension of separated compartments should not exceed five millimeters in gradient direction; and (2) the time-limiting step is not diffusion of the signaling molecule but production of the reporter protein.
Living Matter Observations with a Novel Hyperspectral Supercontinuum Confocal Microscope for VIS to Near-IR Reflectance Spectroscopy
Authors: Bertani Francesca , Ferrari Luisa , Mussi Valentina , Botti Elisabetta , Costanzo Antonio , Selci Stefano
Published: October 2013

A broad range hyper-spectroscopic microscope fed by a supercontinuum laser source and equipped with an almost achromatic optical layout is illustrated with detailed explanations of the design, implementation and data. The real novelty of this instrument, a confocal spectroscopic microscope capable of recording high resolution reflectance data in the VIS-IR spectral range from about 500 nm to 2.5 μm wavelengths, is the possibility of acquiring spectral data at every physical point as defined by lateral coordinates, X and Y, as well as at a depth coordinate, Z, as obtained by the confocal optical sectioning advantage. With this apparatus we collect each single scanning point as a whole spectrum by combining two linear spectral detector arrays, one CCD for the visible range, and one InGaAs infrared array, simultaneously available at the sensor output channel of the home made instrument. This microscope has been developed for biomedical analysis of human skin and other similar applications. Results are shown illustrating the technical performances of the instrument and the capability in extracting information about the composition and the structure of different parts or compartments in biological samples as well as in solid statematter. A complete spectroscopic fingerprinting of samples at microscopic level is shown possible by using statistical analysis on raw data or analytical reflectance models based on Abelés matrix transfer methods.
Biostable ssDNA Aptamers Specific for Hodgkin Lymphoma
Authors: Parekh Parag , Kamble Sanchit , Zhao Nianxi , Zeng Zihua , Wen Jianguo , Yuan Bin , Zu Youli
Published: October 2013

As a “chemical antibody”, oligonucleotide aptamers can specifically bind to their target molecules. However, clinical potential of aptamers in disease diagnosis is not yet fully explored. Using a tumor cell-based selection protocol, we developed single-stranded DNA aptamers for Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) tumor cells. The aptamers specifically bound to HL cells with a high affinity, reaching maximal cell binding at 10 nM final concentration. Importantly, the aptamers were able to selectively detect HL cells and did not react to other tumor or blood cells in mixed samples, indicating that the aptamers can be used as a specific probe for in vitro analysis of HL cells. Moreover, due to the inherent properties of DNA, the aptamers were stable in human serum, suggesting potential for in vivo detection of HL tumor cells.
Anti-Quorum Sensing Activity of the Traditional Chinese Herb, Phyllanthus amarus
Authors: Priya Kumutha , Yin Wai-Fong , Chan Kok-Gan
Published: October 2013

The discovery of quorum sensing in Proteobacteria and its function in regulating virulence determinants makes it an attractive alternative towards attenuation of bacterial pathogens. In this study, crude extracts of Phyllanthus amarus Schumach. & Thonn, a traditional Chinese herb, were screened for their anti-quorum sensing properties through a series of bioassays. Only the methanolic extract of P. amarus exhibited anti-quorum sensing activity, whereby it interrupted the ability of Chromobacterium violaceum CVO26 to response towards exogenously supplied N-hexanoylhomoserine lactone and the extract reduced bioluminescence in E. coli [pSB401] and E. coli [pSB1075]. In addition to this, methanolic extract of P. amarus significantly inhibited selected quorum sensing-regulated virulence determinants of Pseudomonas aeruginosa PA01. Increasing concentrations of the methanolic extracts of P. amarus reduced swarming motility, pyocyanin production and P. aeruginosa PA01 lecA::lux expression. Our data suggest that P. amarus could be useful for attenuating pathogens and hence, more local traditional herbs should be screened for its anti-quorum sensing properties as their active compounds may serve as promising anti-pathogenic drugs.
A Novel INS and Doppler Sensors Calibration Method for Long Range Underwater Vehicle Navigation
Authors: Tang Kanghua , Wang Jinling , Li Wanli , Wu Wenqi
Published: October 2013

Since the drifts of Inertial Navigation System (INS) solutions are inevitable and also grow over time, a Doppler Velocity Log (DVL) is used to aid the INS to restrain its error growth. Therefore, INS/DVL integration is a common approach for Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV) navigation. The parameters including the scale factor of DVL and misalignments between INS and DVL are key factors which limit the accuracy of the INS/DVL integration. In this paper, a novel parameter calibration method is proposed. An iterative implementation of the method is designed to reduce the error caused by INS initial alignment. Furthermore, a simplified INS/DVL integration scheme is employed. The proposed method is evaluated with both river trial and sea trial data sets. Using 0.03°/h(1σ) ring laser gyroscopes, 5 × 10−5 g(1σ) quartz accelerometers and DVL with accuracy 0.5% V ± 0.5 cm/s, INS/DVL integrated navigation can reach an accuracy of about 1‰ of distance travelled (CEP) in a river trial and 2‰ of distance travelled (CEP) in a sea trial.
Biased Estimation of Violent Video Game Effects on Aggression: Contributing Factors and Boundary Conditions
Authors: Bender Jens , Rothmund Tobias , Gollwitzer Mario
Published: October 2013

In order to improve the understanding of media violence effects, it is crucial to extend knowledge about factors that threaten the validity of such effects in empirical research. Research artifacts can be expected when participants are (a) aware of a scientist’s hypothesis, (b) motivated to confirm or disconfirm the hypothesis, and (c) capable of manipulating their responses in line with their motivation. Based on social identity theory (SIT) and self-categorization theory (SCT), we assumed that identifying with the social group of video game players would provide a motivation to disconfirm the “violent video games increase aggression” hypothesis. We further assumed that the use of nontransparent aggression measures and cover stories would prevent research artifacts. Our results showed that highly identified (compared to lowly identified) players of video games reported less aggression on a transparent aggression measure but not on a nontransparent aggression measure. However, providing participants with a cover story did not prevent hypothesis awareness nor eliminate hypothesis-disconfirming response patterns. These results provide empirical support for the ideas that (a) motivational factors may contribute to a biased estimation of media violence effects, (b) cover stories may not always be effective, and (c) the use of nontransparent aggression measures can provide a valid methodological approach for avoiding biases in media effects research.
Role of Innate Immunity against Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Infections and Effect of Adjuvants in Promoting Specific Immune Response
Authors: Amador-Molina Alfredo , Hernández-Valencia José , Lamoyi Edmundo , Contreras-Paredes Adriana , Lizano Marcela
Published: October 2013

During the early stages of human papillomavirus (HPV) infections, the innate immune system creates a pro-inflammatory microenvironment by recruiting innate immune cells to eliminate the infected cells, initiating an effective acquired immune response. However, HPV exhibits a wide range of strategies for evading immune-surveillance, generating an anti-inflammatory microenvironment. The administration of new adjuvants, such as TLR (Toll-like receptors) agonists and alpha-galactosylceramide, has been demonstrated to reverse the anti-inflammatory microenvironment by down-regulating a number of adhesion molecules and chemo-attractants and activating keratinocytes, dendritic (DC), Langerhans (LC), natural killer (NK) or natural killer T (NKT) cells; thus, promoting a strong specific cytotoxic T cell response. Therefore, these adjuvants show promise for the treatment of HPV generated lesions and may be useful to elucidate the unknown roles of immune cells in the natural history of HPV infection. This review focuses on HPV immune evasion mechanisms and on the proposed response of the innate immune system, suggesting a role for the surrounding pro-inflammatory microenvironment and the NK and NKT cells in the clearance of HPV infections.
Evolution of microstructure and related optical properties of ZnO grown by atomic layer deposition
Authors: Abou Chaaya Adib , Viter Roman , Bechelany Mikhael , Alute Zanda , Erts Donats , Zalesskaya Anastasiya , Kovalevskis Kristaps , Rouessac Vincent , Smyntyna Valentyn , Miele Philippe
Published: October 2013

A study of transmittance and photoluminescence spectra on the growth of oxygen-rich ultra-thin ZnO films prepared by atomic layer deposition is reported. The structural transition from an amorphous to a polycrystalline state is observed upon increasing the thickness. The unusual behavior of the energy gap with thickness reflected by optical properties is attributed to the improvement of the crystalline structure resulting from a decreasing concentration of point defects at the growth of grains. The spectra of UV and visible photoluminescence emissions correspond to transitions near the band-edge and defect-related transitions. Additional emissions were observed from band-tail states near the edge. A high oxygen ratio and variable optical properties could be attractive for an application of atomic layer deposition (ALD) deposited ultrathin ZnO films in optical sensors and biosensors.
LANDSCAPE IN THE CURONIAN SPIT. EXPRESSION OF IDENTITY / KURŠIŲ NERIJOS KRAŠTOVAIZDIS. TAPATYBĖS IŠRAIŠKA
Authors: Piekienė Nijolė
Published: October 2013

Abstract
Landscape in the Curonian Spit is not only an important part of our cultural development, but also of everyday life, revealing the identity of this territory and exclusivity of its unique formation. The top priority of the Curonian Spit, as a site enrolled on the UNESCO’s World Cultural Heritage List is to find the means for preservation of the landscape identity, enrichment of the peculiarity and diversity of the Neringa settlements, as well as disclosure of formation specifics of these settlements.

Article in Lithuanian.

Santrauka

Kuršių nerijos kraštovaizdis yra svarbus ne tik kaip kultūrinės raidos, bet ir kaip kasdieninio gyvenimo dalis, išreiškianti teritorijos tapatumą, išskirtinumą. Kuršių nerijos, kaip pasaulio paveldo vietovės, įrašytos į UNESCO pasaulinio kultūros paveldo sąrašą prioritetas – ieškoti priemonių kraštovaizdžio identitetui išsaugoti, šiandieninių Neringos gyvenviečių savitumui ir įvairovei praturtinti bei gyvenviečių formavimosi ypatybėms atskleisti.