bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multibody rigid models and 3D FE models in numerical analysis of transport aircraft main landing gear
Authors: Krason W. , Malachowski J.
Published: September 2015

Dynamic analyses of a transport aircraft landing gear are conducted to determine the effort of such a complex system and provide capabilities to predict their behaviour under hazardous conditions. This kind of investigation with the use of numerical methods implementation is much easier and less expensive than stand tests. Various 3D models of the landing gear part are defined for the multistage static FE analysis. A complete system of the main landing gear was mapped as a deformable 3D numerical model for dynamic analysis with the use of LS-Dyna code. In this 3D deformable FE model, developed in a drop test simulation, the following matters were taken into consideration: contact problems between collaborating elements, the phenomena of energy absorption by a gas-liquid damper placed in the landing gear and the response of the landing gear during the touchdown of a flexible wheel with the ground. The results of numerical analyses for the selected drop tests and the results from the experiments carried out on a real landing gear were used for verification of FE models and a methodology of the landing gear dynamics analysis. The results obtained from the various simulations of the touchdown have proved the effectiveness of the 3D numerical model and how many problems can be solved in the course of only one numerical run, e.g. geometric and material nonlinearities, a question of contact between the mating components, investigation of the landing gear kinematics, investigation of the energy dissipation problem in the whole system and the stresses influence on the structure behaviour, which can appear in some elements due to overload.
Analysis of dynamic properties of the PRT vehicle-track system
Authors: Kozłowski M. , Choromański W. , Kowara J.
Published: September 2015

The paper presents the issue of modelling the system of the PRT vehicle – track. The PRT – Personal Rapid Transit concept is defined as an innovative transport system composed of small vehicles (3–5 persons) moving on the light infrastructure situated at a height of above 5 meters above the ground. This is a system that combines the features of individual and public transport. An important feature of this system is the implementation of the transport approach known as the ‘point to point’ rule that is to say between the initial and the final stop the vehicle does not stop at the intermediate stops. The vehicle has no driver. Routing choice and collision avoidance are performed through a complex computer system.
The Role Of Open And Distance Higher Education In Detainees In Greek Detention Facilities
Authors: Linardatou Charitini , Manousou Evangelia
Published: September 2015

The purpose of this article is to present the results of the qualitative research conducted in Detention Facilities in Greece in connection with the preparation of the thesis (Linardatou, 2012). This is a case study of two prisoners attending Open Universities. The study concerned the characteristics and peculiarities of Open and Distance Education to Greek prisoners in detention facilities and the role of the Hellenic Open University (HOU) in higher education. The use of research tools such as telephone interviews and interviews with the use of a written questionnaire revealed the following information: In detention centres in Greece in 2012 there are two detainees-students studying together. HOU provides educational opportunities to prisoners but in its educational policy there is no strategy for the prisoners’ distance education. The article concludes with suggestions for improving the HOU policy towards socially excluded people such as prisoners.
Distance Education For People With Visual Impairments
Authors: Liakou Maria , Manousou Evaggelia
Published: September 2015

This paper studies the standards of higher Distance Education, focusing on the Hellenic Open University, for people who have visual impairments, so that it becomes fully accessible and thus helps reduce social exclusion. Specifically, it aims to study the operational context of Distance Education, the possibilities that modern technology provides the educational needs of the visually impaired and the factors that prevent their full social integration.
“I Am Different From Other Women In The World” The Experiences Of Saudi Arabian Women Studying Online In International Master Programmes
Authors: Szilagyi Annamaria
Published: September 2015

This paper presents findings from a qualitative study that investigated seven female Saudi Arabian students of the University of Liverpool’s online Masters programmes. Qualitative, first-person research methods and hermeneutic phenomenology were chosen for the analysis and interpretation of transcripts (Langeveld, 1983; van Manen, 1997; Creswell, 2007, Roth, 2012). The principles of cultural anthropology (Hall & du Gay, 1996; Hannerz, 1992; Lull, 2001; Coleman, 2010) were used to take a snapshot of the interviewees’ particular world to provide an overview of the Saudi Arabian culture where the role of women is at the centre of academic, political, religious and social debate These findings reflect the participants’ everyday lives, identities, values and beliefs, presented in a self-reflective, personal ‘life-world’ story of one single Saudi Arabian woman. The findings demonstrate that the primary motivators in choosing online international education to further study are existing limitations of travelling to a university campus and customary gender-segregated education in Saudi Arabia. As a contrast, international online education offers the opportunity to gain up-to-date research-based knowledge in their chosen profession, learn critical thinking and problem solving skills and communicate with male and female students from different cultures.
In vitro propagation of bastard balm (Melittis melissophyllum L.)
Authors: Bączek Katarzyna , Szymborska-Sandhu Izabela , Pawełczak Anna , Węglarz Zenon
Published: September 2015

An efficient method for in vitro propagation of bastard balm by enhanced axillary shoot branching has been developed. The material to establish in vitro culture was shoot tips collected from three-year-old plants in May. The shoots obtained from initial explants were placed on MS/B5 medium containing 0.1, 0.5 or 1.0 mg/l BA with 0.01 mg/l NAA or without the auxin. The highest number of shoots per explant was obtained on the medium with 1.0 mg/l BA (3.9 shoots per explant). For the rooting of shoots ½ MS/B5 with IBA (0.25, 0.50 and 1.0 mg/l) medium was used. The medium without plant growth regulators served as a control. The best root regeneration was observed on the medium without IBA (87.1% of cuttings rooted). IBA used in the medium for shoot rooting affected the morphological traits of obtained microcuttings but not affected their weight. Irrespective of auxin concentration in this medium, obtained microcuttings acclimated in ex vitro conditions very well.
Ganoderma lucidum (Curt.: Fr.) Karst. – health-promoting properties. A review
Authors: Siwulski Marek , Sobieralski Krzysztof , Golak-Siwulska Iwona , Sokół Sławomir , Sękara Agnieszka
Published: September 2015

This paper presents the characteristics of the species Ganoderma lucidum in terms of health-promoting properties. This species is rare in Poland, and is subject to strict protection. Reishi is classified as a medicinal mushroom which fruiting bodies are characterized by a content of active substances with diverse positive effects on human health. G. lucidum is particularly rich source of bioactive compounds, which are obtained from fruiting bodies, mycelium and spores of this species. The therapeutic effect of G. lucidum extracts has been demonstrated in many scientific studies. The most important pharmacological and physiological effects include: immunomodulatory, anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, anti-atherosclerosis, antidiabetic and anti-aging. Reishi has also a beneficial effect on liver cells and the cardiovascular system and protects in case of stomach ulcers. Due to its properties G. lucidum can be used in the prevention and treatment of life-threatening diseases, such as cancer, stroke and heart diseases.
Wood modification with tricine
Authors: Hauptmann Markus , Gindl-Altmutter Wolfgang , Hansmann Christian , Bacher Markus , Rosenau Thomas , Liebner Falk , D’Amico Stefano , Schwanninger Manfred
Published: September 2015

The applicability of amino acid tricine has been investigated for the modification of solid wood. Oak, walnut, cherry, and birch wood lamella were impregnated with a tricine solution and subjected to a drying process. The interaction between tricine and wood components was analyzed by attenuated total reflectance-Fourier transform infrared and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and the reactions only with hemicelluloses were detected. Xylosylamine structures were found among the reaction products of xylose and tricine, and solid oak wood also showed this type of reaction. The equilibrium moisture content of the modified wood decreased, and this finding was interpreted as an indication of a modification of the polysaccharides. The hardness and tensile strength of the tricine-modified lamellae increased significantly. The change of the physical properties is probably due to the low moisture content with increased hydrogen bonding between wood cell wall components. A crystalline layer of tricine on the cell walls was observed by means of electron microscopy.
Mechanical imaging of bamboo fiber cell walls and their composites by means of peakforce quantitative nanomechanics (PQNM) technique
Authors: Ren Dan , Wang Hankun , Yu Zixuan , Wang Hao , Yu Yan
Published: September 2015

The mechanical properties of cell wall layers of bamboo fibers (BFs) and the interphase between BFs and maleated polypropylene polymer (MAPP) were investigated by means of peakforce quantitative nanomechanics based on atomic force microscopy. This technique is well suited for simultaneous imaging of several important material indicators, such as elastic modulus, deformation at peak force, and adhesion force between probe tip and sample. Furthermore, quantitative local mechanical information could be extracted from the obtained images by means of profile analysis. In case of BFs, the elastic modulus of the secondary cell wall and the compound middle lamella was found to be 21.3±2.9 GPa and 14.4±3.6 GPa, respectively, which agrees well with data measured by the nanoindentation technique. Additionally, this technique was also applied for bamboo plastic composites, and data from the transitional zone (interphase) between BFs and the MAPP matrix, with a thickness of 102±18 nm, could be obtained.
Surface modification of natural fibers by plasma for improving strength properties of paper sheets
Authors: Xiao He , He Beihai , Li Junrong
Published: September 2015

Fibers of aspen chemi-thermomechanical pulp (CTMP), spruce CTMP, bleached kraft pulp (BKP), and kraft pulp were treated by low-temperature plasma (air) aiming at the detection of the relationship between chemical components on the surface and the properties of sheets. The effects of plasma treatment were investigated by X-ray diffraction, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and atomic force microscopy. The results show that the strength properties of sheets, especially the wet-tensile strength, were significantly improved, while optical properties were scarcely affected. Aspen and spruce CTMPs with abundant lignin and extractives were sensitive to plasma treatment in that the O/C ratio increased and lignin or extractive contents decreased. However, the crystallinity of BKP evidently decreased after plasma treatment owing to carbohydrate enrichment on the surface. Compared to the partial removal of noncarbohydrates through a laccase/mediator system, plasma treatment did not remove them in large amounts but created more carboxyl and hydroxyl groups, which improved the strength properties of paper sheets.
Accumulative Information Enhancement In The Self-Organizing Maps And Its Application To The Analysis Of Mission Statements
Authors: Kitajima Ryozo , Kamimura Ryotaro
Published: September 2015

This paper proposes a new information-theoretic method based on the information enhancement method to extract important input variables. The information enhancement method was developed to detect important components in neural systems. Previous methods have focused on the detection of only the most important components, and therefore have failed to fully incorporated the information contained in the components into learning processes. In addition, it has been observed that the information enhancement method cannot always extract input information from input patterns. Thus, in this paper a computational method is developed to accumulate information content in the process of information enhancement. The method was applied to an artificial data set and the analysis of mission statements. The results demonstrate that while we were able to explicitly extract the symmetric properties of the data from the artificial data set, only one main factor was able to be extracted from the mission statement, namely, “contribution to the society”. The companies with higher profits tend to have mission statements concerning the society. The results can be considered to be a first step toward the full clarification of the importance of mission statements in actual business activities.
Carotid ultrasound for pulmonary arteriovenous malformation screening
Authors: Yanna-Schulze Anita , Schneider Günther , Maßmann Alexander , Gräber Stefan , Geisthoff Urban W.
Published: September 2015

Objective: In patients with hereditary hemorrhagic
telangiectasia (HHT), pulmonary arteriovenous
malformations (PAVMs) can cause serious neurological
complications. Our aim was to evaluate the potential of
contrast-enhanced Doppler ultrasound (CE-US) of the
common carotid artery as a screening test for detection
of PAVMs. Methods: A total of 124 consecutive patients
with HHT or a positive family history underwent screening
for PAVMs with CE-US and thoracic contrast-enhanced
magnetic resonance angiography (CE-MRA). CE-US was
performed after receiving (D)-galactose microparticulate,
and CE-MRA with gadobenate dimeglumine. Twenty-five
patients with confirmed PAVMs were referred to conventional
pulmonary catheter angiography (PA). Findings
on CE-US and CE-MRA were evaluated using contingency
tables and McNemar’s test. Results: Using CE-MRA as the
reference test, CE-US had a sensitivity of 100%, a specificity
of 87%, and a negative predictive value of 100%.
In 25 patients who underwent PA, PAVMs that had been
diagnosed on CE-US and CE-MRA were confirmed. Of the
PAVMs detected by CE-MRA, 24% were not identified on
PA. Conclusion: CE-US is a simple, minimally invasive
screening method that can easily be performed in different settings. CE-US can predict PAVMs with high probability
of success. CE-US may be a simple alternative to transthoracic
echocardiography in the assessment of PAVMs in
certain HHT-patients.
High serum lactate level may predict death within 24 hours
Authors: Blum Arnon , Almajid Zoubi Abd , Kuria Shiran , Blum Nava
Published: September 2015

Background: Unexpected death within 24 hours
of admission is a real challenge for the clinician in the
emergency room. How to diagnose these patients and the
right approach to prevent sudden death with 24 hours is
still an enigma. The aims of our study were to find the
independent factors that may affect the clinical outcome
in the first 24 hours of admission to the hospital.

Methods: We performed a retrospective study defining
unexpected death within 24 hours of admission in our
Department of Medicine in the last 6 years. We found
43 patients who died within 24 hours of admission, and
compared their clinical and biochemical characteristics
to 6055 consecutive patients who were admitted in that
period of time and did not die within the first 24 hours of
admission. The parameters that were used include gender,
age, temperature, clinical and laboratory criteria for SIRS,
arterial blood lactate, and arterial blood pH.

Results: Most of the patients who died within 24 hours
had sepsis with SIRS. These patients were older (78.6±14.7
vs. 65.2±20.2 years [p<.0001]), had higher lactate levels
(8.0±4.8 vs. 2.1±1.8mmol/L[p<.0001]), and lower pH
(7.2±0.2 vs. 7.4±0.1 [p<.0001]). Logistic regression analysis
found that lactate was the strongest independent parameter
to predict death within 24 hours of admission (OR1.366 [95% CI 1.235-1.512]), followed by old age (OR 1.048
[95% CI 1.048-1.075] and low arterial blood pH (OR 0.007
[CI <0.001-0.147]). When gender was analyzed, pH was not
an independent variable in females (only in males).

Conclusions: The significant independent variable that
predicted death within 24 hours of admission was arterial
blood lactate level on admission. Older age was also
an independent variable; low pH affected only males,
but was a less dominant variable. We suggest use of arterial
blood lactate level on admission as a bio-marker in
patients with suspected sepsis admitted to the hospital for
risk assessment and prediction of death within 24 hours
of admission.
Formaldehyde may be found in cosmetic products
even when unlabelled
Authors: Malinauskiene Laura , Blaziene Audra , Chomiciene Anzelika , Isaksson Marléne
Published: September 2015

Concomitant contact allergy to formaldehyde
and formaldehyde-releasers remains common among
patients with allergic contact dermatitis. Concentration
of free formaldehyde in cosmetic products within allowed
limits have been shown to induce dermatitis from shortterm
use on normal skin.

The aim of this study was to investigate the formaldehyde
content of cosmetic products made in Lithuania.
42 samples were analysed with the chromotropic acid
(CA) method for semi-quantitative formaldehyde determination.
These included 24 leave-on (e.g., creams,
lotions) and 18 rinse-off (e.g., shampoos, soaps) products.
Formaldehyde releasers were declared on the labels of 10
products. No formaldehyde releaser was declared on the
label of the only face cream investigated, but levels of free
formaldehyde with the CA method was >40 mg/ml and
when analysed with a high-performance liquid chromatographic
method – 532 ppm. According to the EU Cosmetic
directive, if the concentration of formaldehyde is above
0.05% a cosmetic product must be labelled “contains
formaldehyde“. It could be difficult for patients allergic to
formaldehyde to avoid contact with products containing it
as its presence cannot be determined from the ingredient
labelling with certainty. The CA method is a simple and reliable method for detecting formaldehyde presence in
cosmetic products.
Effects of rivastigmine and memantine alone and
in combination on learning and memory in rats
with scopolamine-induced amnesia
Authors: Yanev Peter Georgiev , Dimitrova Darinka Slavcheva , Getova-Spassova Damianka Peteva
Published: September 2015

Background: Cholinesterase inhibitors and glutamate
blockers are commonly used for the treatment of
cognitive impairment in Alzheimer’s disease. The aim
was to evaluate the effects of rivastigmine and memantine
alone or in combination in rats with scopolamine-impaired
memory.

Method: 5 groups of rats were used: control, scopolamine
(model), model with rivastigmine, model with memantine,
and model with both drugs. Active avoidance test was performed
and the number of conditioned responses, unconditioned
responses and intertrial crossing were recorded.
Passive avoidance tests step-through with criteria latency
of reaction 180 s in the light chamber and step-down with
criteria latency of reaction 60 s on the platform were done.

Results: Control rats learned the task and kept it on
memory tests. Scopolamine treated rats failed to perform
it. The rivastigmine, memantine and its combination
groups showed increased CRs during learning and
memory retention tests. In both passive avoidance tests
an increased latency of reaction was observed in the drug
treated groups.

Conclusion: The combination of both drugs rivastigmine
and memantine is more effective than the use of the single
drug in cognitive impaired rats. Cholinesterase inhibitors
and NMDA blockers may be combined in the treatment of
different kind of dementias.
Election in Christ in Schleiermacher’s Christian Faith and Christian Ethics
Authors: Schel Kevin Vander
Published: September 2015

Schleiermacher’s treatment of election criticizes the narrow focus on individual salvation and emphasizes the primacy of divine grace. Yet more than merely offering a revision of this controversial doctrine, Schleiermacher’s position illuminates the larger correlation of grace, history, and soteriology in his theology. This essay examines Schleiermacher’s novel understanding of grace and history by attending to the subtle theme of the “supernatural-becoming-natural” in his thought. In contrast to rationalist and supernaturalist theologies in his day, his Christian Faith and Christian Ethics offer a historically-minded treatment that focuses on the original instance of grace in history: the appearance of the redeemer. Schleiermacher depicts the relatively supernatural influence of Christ as transforming the natural and historical world from within, drawing creation to its divinelyordained completion. This dynamic highlights Schleiermacher’s work as an innovative contribution to ongoing discussions of grace and redemption in modern and contemporary systematic theology.
Necesidades metrológicas en los laboratorios clínicos
Authors: Leguizamón John E. , González Ivonne A. , Bernal Luisa J.
Published: September 2015

Los resultados generados por los
laboratorios clínicos son elementos claves
para el diagnóstico y tratamiento de
enfermedades, así como para el seguimiento
de los pacientes, por lo tanto se requiere
un control metrológico sobre el proceso de
medición, el cual determinará el grado de
comparabilidad y de confianza requerido
sobre los resultados obtenidos. Esta revisión
aborda el tema de comparabilidad de las
mediciones y de cómo esta se ve influenciada
por factores como la conmutabilidad de los
materiales de referencia, los métodos de
medición, la disponibilidad de materiales
y procedimientos de referencia, además
de los intervalos de referencia y límites de
decisión para un mensurando en particular.
Finalmente se exponen cuáles son los
mecanismos adoptados que permitirán
garantizar la comparabilidad de las
mediciones en esta área.
Preliminary study of the enzyme ubiquitin carboxylterminal hydrolase 14 (UBP6) in Giardia intestinalis: structural bioinformatic analysis and transcriptional profile during encystation
Authors: Alvarado Magda E , González Camila A , Wasserman Moisés , Rubiano Claudia C
Published: September 2015

This paper presents a combined approach
with two aims. The first is to analyze the
reported sequence of the enzyme ubiquitin
carboxyl-terminal hydrolase 14 of Giardia
intestinalis (UBP6) through computational
methods to find components related with
its hypothetical function. The second is
to determine if the protein-coding gene is
expressed in G. intestinalis and, if such is
the case, also determine its transcription
pattern along the life cycle of the parasite. It
was established that the protein belongs to
the family of Cys-dependent deubiquitinases
and more specifically to ubiquitin specific
proteases (USPs). Moreover, the catalytic
center with the complete triad as well as
typical features of the USP motif were also
identified. Since the computational findings
suggest that the enzyme could be functional,
reverse transcription coupled to PCR was
used as a first approach to establish if in fact
the coding gene is expressed in the parasite.
Interestingly, it was found not only that
the gene is expressed, but also that there
is a transcription variation along the life
cycle of the parasite. These two findings are
the starting point for further studies since
they tentatively suggest that this enzyme
could be involved in the protein turnover
that occurs during parasite encystation.
Although preliminary, this study is the first
report concerning the study of a specific
deubiquitinating enzyme in the parasite G.
intestinalis.
Evaluation of antimicrobial resistance of Helicobacter pylori in the last 15 years in West Poland
Authors: Karpiński Tomasz M. , Andrzejewska Ewa , Eder Piotr , Linke Krzysztof , Szkaradkiewicz Andrzej
Published: September 2015

Increasing resistance to drugs represents a serious problem in treatment of infections with Helicobacter pylori, providing cause of frequent therapeutic failures. Present study aimed at analysis of changes in resistance of H. pylori to antibiotics in West Poland within the recent 15 years. 108 strains of H. pylori were analysed, isolated from gastric mucosa of adult patients. Group 1 involved 66 strains isolated in years of 1998/1999. Group 2 comprised 42 isolates obtained in years of 2013/2014. Susceptibility to amoxicillin (AMX), clarithromycin (CL), tetracycline (TC) and metronidazole (MTZ) was determined by E-test (AB Biodisc). All strains on both studied groups were susceptible to AMX. In group 1 all strains proved to be susceptible to TC, while 9% and 36% of tested strains were resistant to CL and MTZ, respectively. By contrast, in group 2, 31% and 83% of strains were resistant to CL and MTZ, respectively. In parallel, 14% strains were found to be resistant to TC (according to EUCAST interpretations). In West Poland, within recent 15 years a dramatic increase was noted in H. pylori strains resistant to metronidazole. In parallel, a significant increase was noted in proportion of strains resistant to clarithromycin.
Antibiotic susceptibility of sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim resistant Stenotrophomonas maltophilia strains isolated at a tertiary care centre in Hungary
Authors: Juhász Emese , Pongrácz Júlia , Iván Miklós , Kristóf Katalin
Published: September 2015

Sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim (SXT) is the drug-of-choice in Stenotrophomonas maltophilia caused infections. There has been an increase in resistance to SXT of S. maltophilia over recent years. In this study 30 S. maltophilia clinical isolates resistant to SXT were investigated. Antibiotic susceptibilities for ciprofloxacin, moxifloxacin, levofloxacin, doxycycline, tigecycline, ceftazidime, colistin and chloramphenicol were determined by broth microdilution method. None of the strains were susceptible to ciprofloxacin, tigecycline, ceftazidime or colistin. Only 37% of the isolates were susceptible to levofloxacin or moxifloxacin. Two isolates resistant to all tested antibiotic agents and two others susceptible only to doxycycline were further investigated: susceptibility for combinations of antibiotics was analyzed by checkerboard technique. According to the fractional inhibitory concentration indices calculated, moxifloxacin plus ceftazidime combination was found to be synergistic in each case. Genetic testing revealed the predominance of sul1 gene. Our study concluded that the range of effective antibiotic agents is even more limited in infections caused by SXT-resistant S. maltophilia. In these cases, in vitro synergistic antibiotic combinations could be potential therapeutic options.
Significance of yeasts in bloodstream infection: Epidemiology and predisposing factors of Candidaemia in adult patients at a university hospital (2010–2014)
Authors: Pongrácz Júlia , Juhász Emese , Iván Miklós , Kristóf Katalin
Published: September 2015

The incidence of Candida bloodstream infection (BSI) has increased during the past decades. Species distribution is changing worldwide, and non-albicans Candida spp. are becoming more prevalent. Acquired resistance to antifungal agents has been documented in several reports. The aim of our study was to assess the epidemiology and antifungal susceptibility of Candida isolates from BSI at our institute. The incidence of Candida BSI increased during the first four years of our investigation, from 1.7 to 3.5 episodes / 10 000 admissions, then dropped to 2.66 episodes / 10 000 admissions in the last year. The most frequently isolated species was C. albicans (63%), followed by C. glabrata (13%), C. parapsilosis (10.2%), C. tropicalis (9.3%), and C. krusei (3.7%). One isolate each of C. kefyr, C. fabianii and C. inconspicua were detected. The percentage of C. albicans remained stable throughout the study period. The most frequent risk factors of Candida BSI in our patient population were intensive care treatment (60.4%), abdominal surgery (52.5%), and solid malignancy (30.7%). All isolates were wild-type organisms, no acquired antifungal resistance was detected.
Oscillation of tissue oxygen index in non-exercising muscle during exercise
Authors: Yano T , Afroundeh R , Shirakawa K , Lian C-S , Shibata K , Xiao Z , Yunoki T
Published: September 2015

The purpose of the present study was to examine how oscillation of tissue oxygen index (TOI) in non-exercising exercise is affected during high-intensity and low-intensity exercises. Three exercises were performed with exercise intensities of 30% and 70% peak oxygen uptake (Vo2peak) for 12 min and with exercise intensity of 70% Vo2peak for 30 s. TOI in non-exercising muscle (biceps brachii) during the exercises for 12 min was determined by nearinfrared spectroscopy. TOI in the non-exercising muscle during the exercises was analyzed by fast Fourier transform (FFT) to obtain power spectra density (PSD). The frequency at which maximal PSD appeared (Fmax) during the exercise with 70% Vo2peak for 12 min (0.00477 ± 0.00172 Hz) was significantly lower than that during the exercise with 30% Vo2peak for 12 min (0.00781 ± 0.00338 Hz). There were significant differences in blood pH and blood lactate between the exercise with 70% Vo2peak and the exercise with 30% Vo2peak. It is concluded that TOI in nonexercising muscle oscillates during low-intensity exercise as well as during high-intensity exercise and that the difference in Fmax between the two exercises is associated with the difference in increase in blood lactate derived from the exercise.
Heat stress attenuates skeletal muscle atrophy of extensor digitorum longus in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats
Authors: Nonaka K , Une S , Akiyama J
Published: September 2015

To investigate whether heat stress attenuates skeletal muscle atrophy of the extensor digitorum longus (EDL) muscle in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats, 12-week-old male Wistar rats were randomly assigned to four groups (n = 6 per group): control (Con), heat stress (HS), diabetes mellitus (DM), and diabetes mellitus/heat stress (DM + HS). Diabetes was induced by intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (50 mg/kg). Heat stress was induced in the HS and DM + HS groups by immersion of the lower half of the body in hot water at 42 °C for 30 min; it was initiated 7 days after injection of streptozotocin, and was performed once a day, five times a week for 3 weeks. The muscle fiber cross-sectional area of EDL muscles from diabetic and non-diabetic rats was determined; heat stress protein (HSP) 72 and HSP25 expression levels were also analyzed by western blotting. Diabetes-induced muscle fiber atrophy was attenuated upon heat stress treatment in diabetic rats. HSP72 and HSP25 expression was upregulated in the DM + HS group compared with the DM group. Our findings suggest that heat stress attenuates atrophy of the EDL muscle by upregulating HSP72 and HSP25 expression.
Az evészavarok egy lehetséges kockázati tényezője: a szülők megjelenéssel kapcsolatos elvárásai
Authors: Demeter Anna , Túry Ferenc , Czeglédi Edit
Published: September 2015

Absztrakt

Elméleti háttér: A külső megjelenés szociokulturálisan meghatározott
ideáljai és az ezek elérésére irányuló társadalmi nyomás az evészavarok
multifaktoriális etiológiájában a prediszponáló tényezők közé tartoznak.
Cél: A kutatás célja a külső megjelenéssel kapcsolatos, a
serdülők által észlelt szociokulturális hatások és az evészavarok közötti
kapcsolat vizsgálata volt hazai serdülőmintán. Módszerek: A
keresztmetszeti kérdőíves kutatásban 9—13. osztályos, Budapesten tanuló
középiskolás diákok vettek részt (n = 173; 42,8% fiú; átlagéletkor: 17,8 év,
szórás = 1,14 év, terjedelem: 15—20 év). Mérőeszközök: önbeszámolóval nyert
testsúly és -magasság, Szociokulturális Hatások Kérdőív, Evési Zavar Kérdőív,
Evészavartünetek Súlyossági Skálája, Rosenberg-féle Önértékelés Skála,
Vonásszorongás Skála gyermekváltozata. Eredmények:
Összességében 24 résztvevő (14,0%) esetében jelent meg az evészavar kockázata,
és a lányok körében tendenciaszinten nagyobb gyakorisággal fordult elő, mint a
fiúknál [18,2% vs. 8,2%; χ2(1) = 3,473; p = 0,062]. A
lányokat a megjelenéssel kapcsolatosan nagyobb mértékű észlelt szociokulturális
hatás éri, mint a fiúkat [t(161) = —7,154; p < 0,001; Cohen-d:
1,09]. A bináris logisztikus regresszió elemzés eredményei szerint e
szociokulturális hatások fokozottabb volta a nem, az életkor, a testtömegindex,
a vonásszorongás és az önértékelés kontrollja mellett is szignifikánsan előre
jelzi az evészavarok kockázatát (OR = 1,05; p = 0,002; OR 95% CI = 1,02—1,08). A
modell által megmagyarázott variancia 29,4%. Következtetések:
Eredményeink hozzájárulnak a serdülőkori evészavarok és evészavartünetek
kockázati tényezőinek megértéséhez, valamint elősegíthetik a hatékony prevenciós
programok kidolgozását. Ugyanakkor a serdülők által észlelt szociokulturális
hatások evészavarokra vonatkozó előrejelző erejét érdemes lenne külön-külön is
vizsgálni (úgymint szülői, média- és kortárshatások).
Ichthyofauna of tributaries of the Vermelho River, upper Paraguay River basin, region of Rondonópolis, state of Mato Grosso, Brazil
Authors: Vizzotto Patrícia Cristina , Castro Reinaldo José de
Published: September 2015

With the aim of finding information on the composition of the ichthyofauna of streams belonging to the Upper Paraguay River basin, in the municipality of Rondonópolis, state of Mato Grosso (MT), Brazil, we present a list of species captured at eight localities from October 2010 to April 2012. Fish were captured with sieves for approximately one hour at each site and date. We list 39 species from four orders, 15 families and 32 genera. Characiformes was represented by 19 species, Siluriformes by 15 species, Gymnotiformes by three species and Perciformes by two species.
Environmental Risk Factors in the Etiology of Nonsyndromic Orofacial Clefts in the Western Region of Saudi Arabia
Authors: Sabbagh Heba J. , Alamoudi Najlaa M. , Abdulhameed Fatma Dawood , Innes Nicola P. T. , Al-Aama Jumana Y. , Hummaida Tarig , Almalik Manal , El Derwi Douaa A. , Mossey Peter A.
Published: September 2015

Objectives

Nonsyndromic orofacial cleft (NSOFC) etiology is multifactorial and heterogeneous. This study aimed to identify environmental risk factors related to NSOFC in the Western Region of Saudi Arabia.

Methods

A case-control study carried out in seven hospitals in two main cities (Jeddah and Maddina) over 2 years on parents of 112 infants with NSOFC (infants were also examined) and 138 infant controls, matched for age (≤18 months), gender, and location, completed a questionnaire on 3-month pregestation and first trimester events.

Results

There was significantly increased NSOFC risk with twin pregnancies ( P = .01, odds ratio [OR] = 9.5, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.15 to 78.4), maternal antibiotic use ( P = .021, OR = 2.71, 95% CI: 1.11 to 6.62), antiemetic medication ( P = .005, OR = 2.85, 95% CI: 1.3 to 6), severe morning sickness ( P = .006, OR = 3.6, 95% CI: 1.34 to 9.65), illness ( P = .009, OR = 2.19, 95% CI: 1.17 to 4.08), common cold/flu ( P = .003, OR = 3.32, 95% CI: 1.48 to 7.58), Jorak smoking ( P = .004, OR = 14.07, 95% CI: 1.55 to 128.1), and passive smoking ( P = .05, OR = 2.05, 95% CI: 1.05 to 4.01). Reduced NSOFC risk was found with calcium supplementation ( P = .02, OR = 0.32, 95% CI: 0.11 to 0.88), incense use ( P = .03, OR = 0.58, 95% CI: 0.34 to 0.98), and maternal drinking water, with Zamzam water (which contains a high concentration of minerals) showing a significant protective effect compared with tap water ( P = .01, 95% CI: 0.06 to 0.6) and bottled water ( P = .02, 95% CI: 0.03 to 0.57).

Conclusion

Twin births, maternal antibiotic use, antiemetic medication, severe morning sickness, common cold/flu, Jorak smoking, and passive smoking were associated with infants born with NSOFC. Calcium supplementation, incense use, and Zamzam water reduced the risk of NSOFC, raising the possibility of community preventive programs.
Perioperative Complications in Posterior Pharyngeal Flap Surgery: Review of the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program Pediatric (NSQIP-PEDS) Database
Authors: Swanson Jordan W. , Johnston James L. , Mitchell Brianne T. , Alcorn Kaitlyn , Taylor Jesse A.
Published: September 2015

Background

Posterior pharyngeal flap (PPF) surgery is effective for treating velopharyngeal insufficiency but has historically been associated with risk of airway compromise. This study aims to identify risk factors for complications from and readmission after PPF using a national database.

Methods

Patients who underwent PPF surgery were selected from the 2012 American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program Pediatric (NSQIP-PEDS) database. Patient characteristics, comorbidities, and complication/readmission data were analyzed.

Results

Among 225 study patients, 12 (5.3%) suffered perioperative complications. The most common complications were pulmonary in nature (5 patients, 2.2%), including prolonged postoperative mechanical ventilation (3 patients, 1.3%). Underlying asthma ( P = .024) or any cardiac risk factor ( P = .047) conveyed significant complication risk. Further, severe cardiac risk factors were associated with postoperative bleeding ( P = .024). Readmission (4 patients, 1.7%) and reoperation (3 patients, 1.3%) occurred at mean intervals of 9 and 10 days after the original procedure. Seventy-nine patients (35%) were discharged postoperatively on an outpatient basis, and this subgroup included only one patient (1.2%) with a complication ( P = .038).

Conclusions

The overall perioperative complication rate for PPF surgery is low at 5.3%. Patients with underlying cardiac risk factors, severe American Society of Anesthesiologists Physical Status class, and asthma should prompt greater attention given their heightened risk profiles.
Response of Eggplant (Solanum melongena) Grafted onto Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) Rootstock to Herbicides
Authors: Chaudhari Sushila , Jennings Katherine M. , Monks David W. , Jordan David L. , Gunter Christopher C. , Basinger Nicholas T. , Louws Frank J.
Published: September 2015

Tomato rootstocks have been successfully used for eggplant production. However, the safety of herbicides registered in tomato has not been tested on grafted eggplant, which is a combination of tomato rootstock and eggplant scion. Greenhouse and field experiments were conducted to determine response of grafted eggplant on tomato rootstock to napropamide, metribuzin, halosulfuron, trifluralin,S-metolachlor, and fomesafen herbicides. In greenhouse experiments, herbicide treatments included pretransplantS-metolachlor (400 and 800 g ai ha−1), pre- or posttransplant metribuzin (140 and 280 g ai ha−1), and posttransplant halosulfuron (18 and 36 g ai ha−1). In field experiments, herbicide treatments included pretransplant fomesafen (280 and 420 g ai ha−1), halosulfuron (39 and 52 g ha−1), metribuzin (280 and 550 g ha−1), napropamide (1,120 and 2,240 g ai ha−1),S-metolachlor (800 and 1,060 g ha−1), and trifluralin (560 and 840 g ai ha−1). The eggplant cultivar ‘Santana' was used as the scion and nongrafted control, and two hybrid tomatoes ‘RST-04−106-T' and ‘Maxifort' were used as rootstocks for grafted plants. In both greenhouse and field experiments, there was no difference between grafted and nongrafted eggplant in terms of injury caused by herbicides. Metribuzin posttransplant at 140 and 280 g ha−1caused 94 and 100% injury to grafted and nongrafted eggplant 4 wk after treatment. In field experiments, pretransplant fomesafen, napropamide,S-metolachlor, and trifluralin caused less than 10% injury and no yield reduction in grafted and nongrafted eggplant. However, metribuzin caused injury and yield reduction in both grafted and nongrafted eggplant. Metribuzin at 550 g ha−1caused 60 and 81% plant stand loss in 2013 and 2014, respectively. Halosulfuron reduced yield 24% in both grafted and nongrafted eggplant compared to nontreated control in 2013 but did not reduce yield in 2014. The pretransplantS-metolachlor, napropamide, fomesafen, and trifluralin are safe to use on eggplant grafted onto tomato rootstock, and will be a valuable addition to the toolkit of eggplant growers.
The Influence of CKD on Colonic Microbial Metabolism
Authors: Poesen Ruben , Windey Karen , Neven Ellen , Kuypers Dirk , De Preter Vicky , Augustijns Patrick , D’Haese Patrick , Evenepoel Pieter , Verbeke Kristin , Meijers Björn
Published: September 2015

There is increasing interest in the colonic microbiota as a relevant source of uremic retention solutes accumulating in CKD. Renal disease can also profoundly affect the colonic microenvironment and has been associated with a distinct colonic microbial composition. However, the influence of CKD on the colonic microbial metabolism is largely unknown. Therefore, we studied fecal metabolite profiles of hemodialysis patients and healthy controls using a gas chromatography-mass spectrometry method. We observed a clear discrimination between both groups, with 81 fecal volatile organic compounds detected at significantly different levels in hemodialysis patients and healthy controls. To further explore the differential impact of renal function lossper seversus the effect of dietary and other CKD-related factors, we also compared fecal metabolite profiles between patients on hemodialysis and household contacts on the same diet, which revealed a close resemblance. In contrast, significant differences were noted between the fecal samples of rats 6 weeks after 5/6th nephrectomy and those of sham-operated rats, still suggesting an independent influence of renal function loss. Thus, CKD associates with a distinct colonic microbial metabolism, although the effect of renal function lossper sein humans may be inferior to the effects of dietary and other CKD-related factors. The potential beneficial effect of therapeutics targeting colonic microbiota in patients with CKD remains to be examined.
Análise Germinativa de Sementes Comerciais de Coentro (Coriandrum sativum L.) no município de Serra Talhada - PE
Authors: Lins Hamurábi Anizio , Ferraz José Claudio Barros , Costa Juliana Alves da , Almeida Neto Isidro Patrício de , Pimenta Thiago Alves
Published: September 2015

A análise germinativa em sementes de coentro (Coriandrum sativum L.) tem o intuito de avaliar a qualidade fisiológica de sementes para fins de semeadura e comercialização de lotes. Diante disso, a pesquisa teve como objetivo analisar a germinação de sementes comerciais de coentro. O experimento foi conduzido no município de Serra Talhada, PE. Foram utilizadas duas variedades do coentro (Verdão e Portuguesa), sendo empregados dois tratamentos e dez repetições, contendo 30 sementes cada um. A semeadura foi feita em bandejas de isopor contento 200 células, preenchidas com o substrato comercial. Cada semente de coentro foi colocada no centro de cada célula da bandeja, na profundidade de um centímetro, sendo irrigadas diariamente. Adotou-se o Delineamento Inteiramente Casualizado (DIC). Para realizar as avaliações, foi coletada diariamente a quantidade de sementes emergidas. Os parâmetros avaliados foram porcentagem de emergência (PE), tempo médio de emergência (TME) e velocidade média de emergência (VME). Os resultados foram submetidos à análise de variância, com a significância testada através do teste de Tukey, com até 5% de probabilidade. Verificou-se que a variedade Verdão diferenciou significativamente da variedade Portuguesa, concluindo assim que a porcentagem de emergência das variedades de coentro não condiz com o indicado pelo fabricante.
Dislocation After Hip Arthroscopy for Cam-Type Femoroacetabular Impingement Leading to Progressive Arthritis
Authors: Wylie James D. , Beckmann James T. , Aoki Stephen K.
Published: September 2015

Case:

We present the case of a fifty-two-year-old man who underwent hip arthroscopy for cam-type femoroacetabular impingement and had an anterior hip dislocation three weeks postoperatively. The patient did not have any of the previously identified risk factors for instability after hip arthroscopy. He underwent revision involving capsular repair and removal of loose bodies but progressed to needing total hip arthroplasty within two years.

Conclusion:

This case illustrates that even patients without the previously reported risk factors for hip instability are at risk of dislocation after hip arthroscopy and this can lead to rapid joint degeneration necessitating arthroplasty.
Brachial Plexopathy Following Use of Recombinant Human BMP-2 for Treatment of Atrophic Delayed Union of the Clavicle
Authors: Matthews John R. , Margolis David S. , Wu Eileen , Truchan Lisa M.
Published: September 2015

Case:

Although recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 (rhBMP-2) is approved for treatment of open tibial fractures and anterior lumbar interbody fusion, off-label use has been associated with complications such as local inflammation, osteolysis, and dysphagia. This case report describes a patient treated with rhBMP-2 for an atrophic delayed union of a clavicular fracture who subsequently developed a profound motor and sensory brachial plexopathy.

Conclusion:

Use of rhBMP-2 near peripheral nerves may cause neuropathy. This should be considered prior to its use in surgical sites with peripheral nerves in proximity.
Emphysematous Cystitis Found Incidentally in a Patient Undergoing Hip Arthroplasty
Authors: Kim Sang-Rim , Dimitriou Dimitris , Nam Uk , Park Yong-Geun , Choi Sung-Wook , Seo Kyu-Bum , Kim Hee Joong , Nam Kwang Woo
Published: September 2015

Case:

Emphysematous cystitis is a rare, complicated urinary tract infection that is potentially life-threatening if left untreated. We present the case of an eighty-one-year-old woman with left hip pain from a low-energy fall with no associated urinary symptoms. Pelvic computed tomography revealed a left femoral neck fracture and an air-fluid level in the bladder. Bipolar hemiarthroplasty was delayed for three weeks to allow for the potentially serious urinary tract infection to resolve.

Conclusion:

Increased awareness is required for early diagnosis and treatment of asymptomatic emphysematous cystitis in a patient presenting with musculoskeletal symptoms.