bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Review of the mechanism of cell death resulting from streptozotocin challenge in experimental animals, its practical use and potential risk to humans
Authors: Eleazu Chinedum Ogbonnaya , Eleazu Kate Chinedum , Chukwuma Sonia , Essien Udeme Nelson
Published: December 2013

Streptozotocin (STZ) (2-deoxy-2-({[methyl(nitroso)amino]carbonyl}amino)-β-D-glucopyranose) is a naturally occurring diabetogenic compound, produced by the soil bacterium streptomyces achromogenes, that exhibits broad spectrum of antibacterial properties. Streptozotocin functions as a DNA synthesis inhibitor in both bacterial and mammalian cells. In mammalian cells, the actual mechanism and metabolic targets of STZ toxicity that results in cell death is not known. This review identifies four key areas that explain the mechanism of the cytotoxicity of STZ in mammalian cell lines, investigates the practical aspects of using STZ in experimental animals and the potential risks of its exposure to human health.
Mr. Spectator’s Anecdotes and the Science of Human Nature
Authors: Wood James Robert
Published: December 2013

Joseph Addison’s and Richard Steele’s The Spectator turned anecdotes into the moral equivalents of experiments in the science of human nature. Just as the experimental reports of the early Royal Society described exceptions to the ordinary workings of nature, The Spectator anecdotes describe incidents that unsettle normative assumptions about how beings do or ought to act, and so help generate new knowledge of human nature. Mr. Spectator’s anecdotal method gave the papers the appearance of novelty for its original readership, but it was also the cause of the steep decline in popularity that The Spectator suffered later. The papers’ very success in diffusing its anecdotes throughout popular consciousness in the eighteenth century meant the stories that originally had the force of new insights into human nature came to be regarded as mere illustrations of archaic ideas about men and women.
Revealing Power
Authors: Ruiz Pollyanna
Published: December 2013

This article examines the practical and theoretical implications raised by protesters' use of masks to conceal themselves from the eyes of the state. It argues that the refusal to be seen and categorized by the state is empowering in that it exposes, and then unsettles, the power dynamics that have traditionally structured public space. It analyzes the different ways in which masks create transformative in-between spaces that signify the presence of a deliberately unspecified absence and therefore facilitate the possibility of thinking differently. It concludes that this strategic form of presence reveals the usually invisible boundaries of the public sphere and, in doing so, renegotiates the dynamics of power that have structured articulations of dissent. These issues are explored through an analysis of the masks worn by the Zapatistas, the Black Bloc, carnivalesque protesters, antiwar protesters, and the Occupy movement.
Aspectos celulares e fisiológicos da Barreira Hematoencefálica
Authors: Vieira Gabriel de Deus , Sousa Camila Maciel de
Published: December 2013

A barreira hematoencefálica (BHE) é uma estrutura que impede e/ou dificulta a passagem de substâncias do sangue para o sistema nervoso central, tais como anticorpos, complemento e fatores de coagulação. A BHE é formada por células endoteliais que ficam alinhadas com os capilares, impedindo ou dificultando a passagem de substâncias do sangue para o tecido nervoso. Com isso, o presente estudo pretende realizar uma revisão na literatura sobre os aspectos celulares e fisiológicos da barreira hematoencefálica. Foi realizada uma revisão na literatura utilizando os seguintes bancos de dados: Medline, PubMed, Scielo , Lilacs  e Capes. Como critério de seleção, analisaram-se as informações presentes nos resumos, discussões e referências dos artigos dos bancos de dados citados anteriormente, alcançando-se o número total de 40 artigos científicos. O período de abrangência pesquisado foi entre 2000 e 2012. Concluímos que a BHE é de extrema importância, pois atua como uma barreira seletiva, controlando a entrada de medicamentos e substâncias tóxicas no SNC. Existem poucas pesquisas e artigos sobre a BHE, mostrando uma falta de conhecimento sobre os seus mecanismos e suas funções.
Amino Acid sequence analysis of the two major outer Capsid Proteins (VP7 and VP4) from human-derived canine G3P[3] Rotavirus Strain Detected in Brazil
Authors: Luchs Adriana , Timenetsky Maria do Carmo Sampaio Tavares
Published: December 2013

Introduction: A close look at the rotavirus group A (RVA) genotypes in Brazil revealed the detection of a rare G3P[3] strain close related to canine strains. The aim of this study was to add to the already known genetic analysis by the description of the G3P[3] (IAL-R2638 strain) amino acid characteristics. Methods: Amino acid sequence analysis and protein based trees were conducted using BioEdit and MEGA 4.0. Results: The VP7 and VP4 protein of the IAL-R2638 strain displayed the highest amino acid identity to the canine-derived human strain HCR3A (99.2%), and to the canine strain RV52/96 (96.4%), respectively. IAL-R2638 strain did not possess an extra VP7 N-linked glycosylation site at amino acid 238 recently described for some G3 strains, as well as RotaTeqTM G3 vaccine strain. The topology exhibited by phylogenetic trees in previous analysis were maintained in the present amino acid-based trees, reinforcing a stable relationship between G3P[3] strains. Conclusions: Amino acid analysis data were consistent with the previous sequence of data obtained for the IAL-R2638 strain, supporting its possible canine origin. Theoretically, RotaTeqTM vaccine could efficiently protect against G3P[3] infections based on the lack of the extra VP7 N-linked glycosylation site at amino acid 238. Phylogenetic analysis hypothesizes that all features undergo evolution independently of each other; however, unfavorable effects of nucleotide substitutions may be compensated by substitutions in other positions. The present study raises the question as to whether the amino acid-based trees could be applied as an approach to the study of RVA evolution, avoiding incorrect phylogenetic reconstructions.
A case report of simultaneous PML-IRIS during corticosteroids tapering in a patient with an anti-synthetase syndrome
Authors: Martin-Blondel Guillaume , Brassat David , Dumas Hervé , Uro-Coste Emmanuelle , Adoue Daniel , Lassmann Hans , Clanet Michel
Published: December 2013

We report a case of simultaneous progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy-associated immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (PML-IRIS) during corticosteroid tapering in a patient with an anti-synthetase syndrome. We describe the challenges associated with the diagnosis and the management of this emerging inflammatory neurological condition in this immunocompromised patient with a severe rheumatic disease. We highlight that, in the setting of IRIS, the low-level of the JC virus viral load requires a sensitive PCR assay before excluding PML.
Geoscape: Lessons Learned from 15 Years of Geoscience Outreach
Authors: Turner Robert J.W.
Published: December 2013

Geoscape is the name for a long term geoscience outreach initiative led by staff of the Geological Survey of Canada (GSC) Vancouver office and designed to better connect people to the land they live on. Although largely focused on outreach in British Columbia, the initiative has been active across Canada and supported by a number of different GSC programs. Geoscape products, some 35 in total, include Geoscape, GeoMap, Waterscape, and climate change series posters, as well as geological highway maps and GeoTour booklets. A popular geoscience book and a national climate change poster series were inspired by Geoscape work. Begun in 1994, Geoscape has drawn dozens of Canadian geoscientists and educators into outreach efforts. This paper summarizes the accomplishments of Geoscape and some of the lessons we learned along the way.SOMMAIREGéopanorama est le nom d'une activité géoscientifique de sensibilisation à long terme menée par le personnel du bureau de Vancouver de la Commission géologique du Canada (CGC) visant à créer des liens entre les gens et la terre sur laquelle ils vivent.  Bien que visant largement la sensibilisation en Colombie-Britannique, l’activité a été menée à travers le Canada et soutenue grâce à un certain nombre de programmes différents de la CGC.  Quelques 35 productions de Géopanorama ont déjà été réalisées, dont Géopanorama, GeoMap, Waterscape, une série d’affiches sur le changement climatique, ainsi que des cartes routières géologiques et des livrets touristiques GeoTour.  Un livre géoscientifiques grand public et une série nationale d’affiches sur le changement climatique découlent directement de Géopanorama.  Commencée en 1994, Géopanorama a inspiré les efforts de sensibilisation de dizaines de géoscientifiques et d’éducateurs canadiens.  Le présent article présente un sommaire des réalisations de Géopanorama ainsi que certaines des leçons que nous avons apprises en cours de route.
Searching a Variable Speed Network
Authors: Alpern Steve , Lidbetter Thomas
Published: December 2013

A point lies on a network according to some unknown probability distribution. Starting at a specified root of the network, a Searcher moves to find this point at speeds that depend on his location and direction. He seeks the randomized search algorithm that minimizes the expected search time. This is equivalent to modeling the problem as a zero-sum hide-and-seek game whose value is called the search value of the network.

We make a new and direct derivation of an explicit formula for the search value of a tree, proving that it is equal to half the sum of the minimum tour time of the tree and a quantity called its incline. The incline of a tree is an average over the leaf nodes of the difference between the time taken to travel from the root to a leaf node and the time taken to travel from a leaf node to the root. This difference can be interpreted as height of a leaf node, assuming uphill is slower than downhill. We then apply this formula to obtain numerous results for general networks. We also introduce a new general method of comparing the search value of networks that differ in a single arc. Some simple networks have very complicated optimal strategies that require mixing of a continuum of pure strategies. Many of our results generalize analogous ones obtained for constant velocity (in both directions) by S. Gal, but not all of those results can be extended.
Human Mesenchymal Stem Cell Response to 444 Ferritic Stainless Steel Networks
Authors: Symeonidou Antonia , Spear Rose L , Brooks Roger A , Markaki Athina E
Published: December 2013

The aim of this work is to improve bone-implant bonding. This can, potentially, be achieved through the use of an implant coating composed of fibre networks. It is hypothesised that such an implant can achieve strong peri-prosthetic bone anchorage, when seeded with human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs). The materials employed were 444 and 316L stainless steel fibre networks of the same fibre volume fraction. The present work confirms that hMSCs are able to proliferate and differentiate towards the osteogenic lineage when seeded onto the fibre networks. Cellular viability, proliferation and metabolic activity were assessed and the results suggest higher proliferation rates when hMSC are seeded onto the 444 networks as compared to 316L. Cell distribution was found uniform across the seeded surfaces with 444 showing a somewhat higher infiltration depth.
Comparing Biocompatibility of Nanocrystalline Titanium and Titanium-Oxide with Microcrystalline Titanium
Authors: Miralami Raheleh , Koepsell Laura , Premaraj Thyagaseely , Kim Bongok , Thiele Geoffrey M. , Sharp J. Graham , Garvin Kevin L. , Namavar Fereydoon
Published: December 2013

Titanium (Ti) is the material of choice for orthopaedic applications because it is biocompatible and encourages osteoblast ingrowth. It was shown that the biocompatibility of Ti metal is due to the presence of a thin native sub-stoichiometric titanium oxide layer which enhances the adsorption of mediating proteins on the surface [1]. The present studies were devised to evaluate the adhesion, survival, and growth of cells on the surface of new engineered nano-crystal films of titanium and titanium oxides and compare them with orthopaedic-grade titanium with microcrystals. The engineered nano-crystal films with hydrophilic properties are produced by employing an ion beam assisted deposition (IBAD) technique. IBAD combines physical vapor deposition with concurrent ion beam bombardment in a high vacuum environment to produce films (with 3 to 70 nm grain size) with superior properties. These films are “stitched” to the artificial orthopaedic implant materials with characteristics that affect the wettability and mechanical properties of the coatings.

To characterize the biocompatibility of these nano-engineered surfaces, we have studied osteoblast function including cell adhesion, growth, and differentiation on different nanostructured samples. Cell responses to surfaces were examined using SAOS-2 osteoblast-like cells. We also studied a correlation between the surface nanostructures and the cell growth by characterizing the SAOS-2 cells with immunofluorescence and measuring the amount alizarin red concentration produced after 7 and 14 days. The number of adherent cells was determined by means of nuclei quantification on the nanocrystalline Ti, TiO2, and microcrystalline Ti and analysis was performed with Image J. Our experimental results indicated that nanocrystalline TiO2 is superior to both nano and microcrystalline Ti in supporting growth, adhesion, and proliferation. Improving the quality of surface oxide, i.e. fabricating stoichiometric oxides as well as nanoengineering the surface topology, is crucial for increasing the biocompatibility of Ti implant materials.
Influence of Coupling Agent on the Morphology of Multifunctional, Degradable Shape-Memory Polymers
Authors: Fang Liang , Yan Wan , Nöchel Ulrich , Zierke Michael , Behl Marc , Kratz Karl , Lendlein Andreas
Published: December 2013

Multifunctional polymer-based biomaterials, which combine degradability and shapememory capability, are promising candidate materials for biomedical implants. An example is a degradable multiblock copolymer (PDC), composed of poly(p-dioxanone) (PPDO) as hard and poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) as switching segments. PDC exhibits a unique linear mass loss during hydrolytic degradation, which can be tailored by the PPDO to PCL weight ratio, as well as an excellent thermally induced dual-shape effect. PDC can be synthesized by co-condensation of two oligomeric macrodiols (PCL-diol and PPDO-diol) using aliphatic diisocyanates as coupling agent. Here, we investigated whether different morphologies could be obtained for PDCs synthesized from identical oligomeric macrodiols (PCL-diol with Mn = 2000 g·mol-1 and PPDO-diol with Mn = 5300-5500 g·mol-1) with 2, 2(4), 4-trimethyl-hexamethylene diisocyanate (TMDI) and 1, 6-hexamethylene diisocyanate (HDI), respectively. More specifically, atomic force microscopy (AFM) was utilized for an investigation of the surface morphologies in solution casted PDC thin films in the temperature range from 20 °C to 60 °C. The results obtained in differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and AFM demonstrated that different morphologies were obtained when TMDI (PDC-TMDI) or HDI (PDC-HDI) were used as linker. PCL related crystals in PDC-HDI were more heterogeneous and less ordered than those in PDCTMDI, while HDI resulted in a larger degree of crystallinity than TMDI. This research provides some new suggestions for choosing a suitable coupling agent to tailor the required morphologies and properties of SMPs with crystallizable switching segments.
The influence of the co-monomer ratio of poly[acrylonitrile-co-(N-vinylpyrrolidone)]s on primary human monocyte-derived dendritic cells
Authors: Roch Toralf , Behl Marc , Zierke Michael , Pierce Benjamin F. , Kratz Karl , Weigel Thomas , Ma Nan , Lendlein Andreas
Published: December 2013

A major goal in the field of regenerative medicine is to improve our understanding of how biomaterial properties affect cells of the immune system. Systematic variation of defined chemical properties could help to understand which factors determine and modulate cellular responses. A series of copolymers poly[acrylonitrile-co-(N-vinylpyrrolidone)]s (P(AN-co-NVP)) served as model system, in which increasing hydrophilicity was adjusted by increasing the content related to the NVP based repeating units (nNVP) (0, 4.6, 11.8, 22.3, and 29.4 mol%). The influence of increasing nNVPcontents on cellular response of human primary monocyte derived dendritic cells (DC), which play a key role in the initiation of immune responses, was investigated. It was shown using the LAL-Test as well as a macrophage-based assay, that the materials were free of endotoxins and other microbial contaminations, which could otherwise bias the readout of the DC experiments. The increasing nNVPcontent led to a slightly increased cell death of DC, whereas the activation status of DC was not systematically altered by the different P(AN-co-NVP)s as demonstrated by the expression of co-stimulatory molecule and cytokine secretion. Similarly, under inflammatory conditions mimicked by the addition of lipopolysaccharides (LPS), neither the expression of co-stimulatory molecules nor the release of cytokines was influenced by the different copolymers. Conclusively, our data showed that this class of copolymers does not substantially influence the viability and the activation status of DC.
Hysteresis modeling of porous SMA for drug delivery system designed and fabricated by the laser-assisted sintering
Authors: Shishkovsky Igor V.
Published: December 2013

In this report we develop a complete mathematical model for a porous scaffold from nitinol (NiTi – intermetallic phase) with a shape memory effect (SME), fabricated layerwise via the selective laser sintering (SLS) process. The operation of the SME bio-fluidic MEMS involves such physical process as a heat transfer, a phase transformation with a temperature hysteresis, stress-strain and electrical resistance variations accompanied the phase transformation. The simulations were conducted for the electro- and a thermo- mechanical hysteresis phenomenon, during the SME in the porous nitinol structures of the cylinder shape, which allow to formulate a recommendations for SLS. Previously done the temperature evolution of electrical resistivity was compared with our present calculations as a function of the laser-processing parameters for three dimensional nitinol samples. This model can be used for an estimation of a drug delivery system route during a porous phase volume changing.
Influence of diisocyanate reactivity and water solubility on the formation and the mechanical properties of gelatin-based networks in water
Authors: Gebauer Tim , Neffe Axel T. , Lendlein Andreas
Published: December 2013

Gelatin can be covalently crosslinked in aqueous solution by application of diisocyanates like L-lysine diisocyanate ethyl ester in order to form hydrogels. Reaction of isocyanate groups with water is however a limiting factor in hydrogel network formation and can strongly influence the outcome of the crosslinking process. Here, diisocyanates with different water solubility and reactivity were applied for the formation of gelatin-based hydrogel networks and the mechanical properties of the hydrogels were investigated to gain a better understanding of starting material/ hydrogel property relations. L-Lysin diisocyanate ethyl ester (LDI), 2,4-toluene diisocyanate (TDI), 1,4-butane diisocyanate (BDI), and isophorone diisocyanate (IPDI) were selected, having different solubility in water ranging from 10-4 to 10-2 mol·L-1. BDI and LDI were estimated to have average reactive isocyanates groups, whereas TDI is highly reactive and IPDI has low reactivity. Formed hydrogels showed different morphologies and were partially very inhomogeneous. Gelation time (1 to 50 minutes), water uptake (300 to 900 wt.-%), and mechanical properties determined by tensile tests (E-moduli 35 to 370 kPa) and rheology (Shear moduli 4.5 to 19.5 kPa) showed that high water solubility as well as high reactivity leads to the formation of poorly crosslinked or inhomogeneous materials. Nevertheless, diisocyanates with lower solubility in water and low reactivity are able to form stable, homogeneous hydrogel networks with gelatin in water.
Generation and Surface Functionalization of Electro Photographic Toner Particles for Biomaterial Applications
Authors: Speyerer Christian , Borchers Kirsten , Storsberg Joachim , Tovar Günter E. M. , Hirth Thomas , Weber Achim
Published: December 2013

In this paper, we provide the investigation about the controlled surface functionalization of acrylic toner particles for electro photography (“laser printing”) with sodium hydroxide and the subsequent carbodiimide-mediated coupling of numerous functional amines onto the generated carboxylic group. Various chemically valuable functionalities, comprising of thiol, alkyne and azide, were bound onto the particles’ surface and allow for further versatile modifications via huisgen cycloaddition as well as thiol-ene reaction. The functionalization of the acrylic toner surface with alkyne, azide and carboxylic groups increased the cell viability up to 178 % ± 22 % and might offer an interesting path for new applications using common laser printing techniques.
QUATERNARY AMMONIUM ANTIMICROBIAL POLYMERS
Authors: Domb Abraham J. , Beyth Nurit , Farah Shady
Published: December 2013

Polymers possessing antimicrobial activity have been used for self sterilization surfaces as well as agents for treating contaminated water. Cationic polymers based on quaternary ammonium or guanidine groups have shown high inherent antimicrobial activity where the activity is related to the disruption of the microorganism cell wall. A range of antimicrobial nanoparticles possessing active quaternary ammonium groups with one of the alkyl is a an octyl chain have been synthesized. These nanoparticles were incorporated in dental restoration compositions to form self sterile composites. Quaternary ammonium polyethyleneimine nanoparticles with N-octyl dimethyl residues, demonstrated high antibacterial effect.
Aging Studies of Pu-238 and -239 Containing Calcium Phosphate Ceramic Waste-forms
Authors: Fong Shirley K. , Metcalfe Brian L. , Scheele Randall D. , Strachan Denis M.
Published: December 2013

A calcium phosphate ceramic waste-form has been developed at AWE for the immobilisation of chloride containing wastes arising from the pyrochemical reprocessing of plutonium. In order to determine the long term durability of the waste-form, aging trials have been carried out at PNNL. Ceramics were prepared using Pu-239 and -238, these were characterised by PXRD at regular intervals and Single Pass Flow Through (SPFT) tests after approximately 5 yrs.

While XRD indicated some loss of crystallinity in the Pu-238 samples after exposure to 2.8 x 1018 α decays, SPFT tests indicated that accelerated aging had not had a detrimental effect on the durability of Pu-238 samples compared to Pu-239 waste-forms.
Fabrication and Characterization of CoFe2O4-Polymer Nanocomposite Thin-Films
Authors: Liu Xiaohua , Liu Shuangyi , O’Brien Stephen
Published: December 2013

Magnetic cobalt ferrite nanoparticles provide a pathway towards nanocomposites, due to the ability to fabricate particle-matrix thin films in the submicron range. In this work flexible particulate 0-3 type thin-films, composed of magnetic CoFe2O4 particles (8-18 nm) and ferroelectric poly(vinylidene fluoride-co-hexafluoropropene) (P(VDF-HFP)) polymer, have been fabricated via multiple spin-coating. The thickness of the thin-films was controlled in the range of 500 nm to 1.2 μm, with magnetic particles dispersively embedded in the polymer matrix. Structural information was analyzed by TEM, XRD, HRTEM and SEM. The dielectric and magnetic properties of the cobalt ferrite/copolymer thin films are systematically investigated. The nanocomposite thin films exhibit composition-dependent effective permittivity and loss tangent, as well as temperature and composition-dependent specific saturation magnetization (Ms). The coercivity (Hc) was not affected by the composite’s composition. These films have great potential in smart magnetic devices and biomagnetic applications.
Room Temperature Current Suppression on Magnetic Tunnel Junction Based Molecular Spintronics Devices
Authors: Tyagi Pawan
Published: December 2013

Molecular conduction channels between two ferromagnetic electrodes can produce strong exchange coupling and dramatic effect on the spin transport, thus enabling the realization of novel logic and memory devices. To realize such device, we produced Multilayer Edge Molecular Spintronics Devices (MEMSDs) by bridging the organometallic molecular clusters (OMCs) across a ∼2 nm thick insulator of a magnetic tunnel junction (MTJ), along its exposed side edges. These MEMSDs exhibited unprecedented increase in exchange coupling between ferromagnetic films and dramatic changes in the spin transport. This paper focuses on the dramatic current suppression phenomenon exhibited by MEMSDs at room temperature. In the event of current suppression, the effective MEMESDs’ current reduced by as much as six orders in magnitude as compared to the leakage current level of a MTJ test bed. Current suppression phenomenon was found to be associated with the equally dramatic changes in the MTJ test beds due to OMCs. Role of OMC in changing MTJ test bed properties was determined by the three different types of magnetic characterizations: SQUID Magnetometer, Ferromagnetic Resonance, and Magnetic Force Microscopy. Observation of current suppression by independent research groups and supporting studies on similar systems will be crucially important to unequivocally establish the utility of MEMSD approach.
Screening for Cancer-Related Neuropathic Pain in the Oncology Outpatient Setting in the United Kingdom
Authors: Birtle Alison , Davidson Susan , Atkinson Gary , Litsenburg Chantal van
Published: December 2013

This article reports the outcomes of a sub-analysis of United Kingdom (UK) data collected during a noninterventional, cross-sectional study conducted in five European countries. The primary aim was to estimate the prevalence of cancer-related neuropathic pain (CRNP) in an outpatient sample of adult cancer patients visiting oncology clinics in the UK for standard care. Secondary aims were to report the nature and characteristics of the cancer and the pain in the patients with CRNP. This sub-analysis also assessed the usefulness of the PainDETECT screening tool as an aid for physicians in identifying the neuropathic component of cancer-related pain in daily practice. Based on physicians’ clinical judgment before reviewing the scores on the PainDETECT tool, the estimated number of outpatients with cancer experiencing chronic pain and considered to have CRNP was 104 of 195 patients (53.3%; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 46.3%- 60.3%). After reviewing patients’ scores on the tool, the estimate was 90 of 195 patients (46.2%; 95% CI: 39.2%-53.2%).
Physicians changed from a positive (yes) to a negative (no) diagnosis of CRNP for 16 of 127 patients who had a low PainDETECT end score (<13; indicating that neuropathic pain was unlikely). Of the 11 physicians who completed the usefulness of PainDETECT survey, eight indicated that they would use the questionnaire in future for at least some of their patients, although they also indicated that in the majority of cases (63%), the PainDETECT tool did not help them evaluate whether a patient had CRNP. Because of missing data arising from missing or incomplete survey responses, however, these data should be interpreted with caution, and further studies are required to assess the usefulness of this tool.
Proposal for determining changes in entropy of semi ideal gas using mean values of temperature functions
Authors: Pejovic Branko , Micic Vladan , Perusic Mitar , Tadic Goran , Vasiljevic Ljubica , Smiljanic Slavko
Published: December 2013

In a semi-ideal gas, entropy changes cannot be determined through the medium
specific heat capacity in a manner as determined by the change of internal
energy and enthalpy, i.e. the amount of heat exchanged. Taking this into
account, the authors conducted two models through which it is possible to
determine the change in the specific entropy of a semi-ideal gas for
arbitrary temperature interval using the spread sheet method, using the mean
values of the appropriate functions. The idea is to replace integration,
which occurs here in evitably, with mean values of the previous functions.
The models are derived based on the functional dependence of the actual
specific heat capacity on the temperature. The theorem used is that of the
mean value of a function as well as the mathematical properties of the
definite integral. The mean value of a fractional function is determined via
its integrand while the logarithmic functions were performed by applying a
suitable transformation of the differential calculus. The relations derived
relation, using the computer program, have enabled the design of appropriate
thermodynamic tables through which it is possible to determine the change in
entropy of arbitrary state changes in an efficient and rational manner,
without the use of calculus or finished forms. In this way, the change in the
entropy of a semi-ideal gas is determined for an arbitrary temperature
interval using the method which is analogous to that applied in determining
the change of internal energy and enthalpy or the amount of heat exchanged,
which was the goal of the work. Verification of the proposed method for both
the above functions was performed for a a few characteristic semi-ideal gases
where change c(T) is significant, for the three adopted temperature
intervals, for the characteristic change of state. This was compared to the
results of the classical integral and the proposed method through the
prepared tables. In certain or special cases, it is possible to apply the
presented method also in determining the change in entropy of the real gas.
Apart from that, the paper shows that the change in entropy for the observed
characteristic case can be represented or graphically determined using the
planimetric method of diagrams with suitably selected coordinates.
Utopian Transformations in the Contact Zone: A Posthuman, Postcolonial Reading of Shaun Tan and John Marsden's The Rabbits
Authors: Banerjee Bidisha
Published: December 2013

The 1998 picture book The Rabbits, written by John Marsden and illustrated by Shaun Tan, is an allegory of the colonisation of Australia. The book has been controversial for a number of reasons. While some have read it as too politically correct, others have argued that the portrayal of the Aboriginals is patronising and silencing, and still others have been confounded by its categorisation as children's literature. For the author of this article, the overwhelming message of the book is the destruction of the landscape due to colonialism. In the reading of The Rabbits in this article, the author attempts to bring together the postcolonial and the posthuman ‘contact zone’ perspectives, as theorised by Mary Louise Pratt and Donna Haraway respectively. The author analyses the textual pages of The Rabbits as representative of a troubled contact zone where text and image exist in tension with each other such that two separate but interwoven strands ultimately come together to deliver a poignant message. The author further argues that the book can be read as a deeply transformative text, mainly because of Tan's illustrations which subtly counter Marsden's sharply polarised representation of the coloniser and the colonised.
Chaotic behaviour of the map x ↦ ω(x, f)
Authors: D’Aniello Emma , Steele Timothy
Published: December 2013

Let K(2ℕ) be the class of compact subsets of the Cantor space 2ℕ, furnished with the Hausdorff metric. Let f ∈ C(2ℕ). We study the map ω
f: 2ℕ → K(2ℕ) defined as ω
f (x) = ω(x, f), the ω-limit set of x under f. Unlike the case of n-dimensional manifolds, n ≥ 1, we show that ω
f is continuous for the generic self-map f of the Cantor space, even though the set of functions for which ω
f is everywhere discontinuous on a subsystem is dense in C(2ℕ). The relationships between the continuity of ω
f and some forms of chaos are investigated.
Weighted inequalities for some integral operators with rough kernels
Authors: Riveros María , Urciuolo Marta
Published: December 2013

In this paper we study integral operators with kernels $$K(x,y) = k_1 (x - A_1 y) \cdots k_m \left( {x - A_m y} \right),$$
$$k_i \left( x \right) = {{\Omega _i \left( x \right)} \mathord{\left/
{\vphantom {{\Omega _i \left( x \right)} {\left| x \right|}}} \right.
\kern-\nulldelimiterspace} {\left| x \right|}}^{{n \mathord{\left/
{\vphantom {n {q_i }}} \right.
\kern-\nulldelimiterspace} {q_i }}}$$ where Ωi: ℝn → ℝ are homogeneous functions of degree zero, satisfying a size and a Dini condition, A
i are certain invertible matrices, and n/q
1 +…+n/q
m = n−α, 0 ≤ α < n. We obtain the appropriate weighted L
p-L
q estimate, the weighted BMO and weak type estimates for certain weights in A(p, q). We also give a Coifman type estimate for these operators.
Superdeformed structures and low Ω parity doublet in Ne-S nuclei near neutron drip-line
Authors: Singh Shailesh , Praharaj Choudhury , Patra Suresh
Published: December 2013

The structures of Ne, Na, Mg, Al, Si, P and S nuclei near the neutron drip-line region are investigated in the frame-work of relativistic mean field theory and non-relativistic Skyrme Hartree-Fock formalism. The recently discovered nuclei 40Mg and 42Al, which are beyond the drip-line predicted by various mass formulae are located within these models. We find many largely deformed neutron-rich nuclei, whose structures are analyzed. From the structure anatomy, we find that at large deformation low orbits of opposite parities (e.g. $$\frac{1} {2}^ +$$ and $$\frac{1} {2}^ -$$) occur close to each other in energy.
Adult intestinal intussusception — A report of 2 cases and literature review
Authors: Habib Khalid , Jacob George
Published: December 2013

Every five years or so a case of adult small bowel intussusception secondary to pathologies such as inflammatory fibroid polyp (IFP) appears in English literature. Likewise rare cases of adult colonic intussusception due to a tumour have been reported including, more recently, their successful management by laparoscopic approach. We describe two such cases, one each of small bowel and large bowel intussusception, due to IFP and caecal tumour respectively and discuss their management. We also suggest role of combined laparoscopy/endoscopy in selected cases of colonic resections.
A rare cause of respiratory insufficiency: case presentation
Authors: Diaconu Camelia , Paraschiv Bianca , Lungu Răzvan , Bartoş Daniela
Published: December 2013

We report the case of a 73 year old woman who presented for progressive dyspnea. Her medical history included thyroidectomy 15 years ago, myocardial infarction, recurrent paroxysmal atrial fibrillation and femoral fracture two weeks previously, conservatively treated. Physical examination revealed absent breath sounds in the left hemithorax, up to the apex, and crackles in the right hemithorax. The acid-base balance showed acute hypoxemic respiratory failure. The chest X-Ray revealed left diaphragmatic paralysis. Thoracic CT-scan was performed, which excluded the pulmonary embolism and revealed left diaphragmatic relaxation, ascension of the splenic angle of the colon, stomach and spleen up to the projection of left lung hilum, and right postero-basal alveolar condensation process. Diaphragm dysfunction can be caused by various disorders, including phrenic paralysis. This pathology should be considered in the differential diagnosis of acute respiratory failure.
Body fat, lean mass and bone density of the spine and forearm in women
Authors: Boyanov Mihail
Published: December 2013

The aim of this study was to determine the relative contributions of fat mass and lean mass to the variability of bone mineral density (BMD) of the lumbar spine and proximal 1/3 forearm in Bulgarian women. 180 women aged 21 through 76 years participated (mean age 50.8 ± 9.7 years). 130 of them were postmenopausal. Lumbar spine and forearm BMD were measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, followed by a whole-body scan for body composition examination (Hologic QDR 4500 A device, software version 1.26). The strongest linear correlation was found with body weight (r2=0.231, p<0.001). Using this model, 18.1 % of the variability of lumbar spine BMD was attributable to fat mass and 16.0 % to lean mass. The relative influence of fat mass on L1-L4 BMD was greater than that of lean mass (standardized regression coefficient 0.291 versus 0.199). There were weak correlations of body weight, fat and lean mass with the forearm BMD. Lean mass correlated slightly better (r=0.187, p=0.050) to forearm BMD than fat mass (r=0.162, p=0.055). In conclusion, the differentiation between fat and lean mass does not strengthen the BMD correlations beyond that with total body weight.
Enzymatic synthesis of a chiral chalcogran intermediate
Authors: Mastihuba Vladimír , Čepec Pavel , Vlčková Silvia , Farkašová Erika , Mastihubová Mária , Bobal Pavel
Published: December 2013

Two lipases, Novozyme 435 (lipase B from Candida Antarctica) and Lipozyme TL IM (Thermomyces lanuginosus) were used successfully for the kinetic resolution of racemic 1-(2-furyl)-3-pentanol, the key intermediate in synthesis of the bark beetle pheromone, chalcogran. The desired S-(+)-enantiomer was prepared in enantiomeric excesses higher than 98 % and with yields of 26.3 % and 32.5 %, respectively. Methyl tert-butyl ether and vinyl acetate were found to be the best reaction media and the acetyl donor to achieve fast and effective resolution.
Appropriate Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Authors: Haq M Maksumul , Ahsan Chowdhury H
Published: December 2013

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/icmj.v2i1.17380 Ibrahim Cardiac Med J 2012; 2(1): 5-7
Burden of Scabies in Children of Out Patient of Dhaka Shishu Hospital
Authors: Hussain Mahfuza , Akhter Rowshan Jahan , Ara Shawkat
Published: December 2013

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/icmj.v2i1.17383 Ibrahim Cardiac Med J 2012; 2(1): 17-20
Predictors of Relapse in Children with Steroid-Sensitive Nephrotic Syndrome
Authors: Shafiullah Mohammad , Muinuddin Golam , Rahman Habibur , Ahmed Farid , Islam Md Shafiqul , Karim AKM Rezaul
Published: December 2013

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/icmj.v2i1.17384 Ibrahim Cardiac Med J 2012; 2(1): 21-26
Prevalene of Multidrug Resistant Typhoid Fever
Authors: Islam Md Shafiqul , Rahman Md Hamidur , Khan Md Rakibul Haque , Shafiullah Mohammad
Published: December 2013

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/icmj.v2i1.17416 Ibrahim Cardiac Med J 2012; 2(1): 36-41
Periprocedural Myocardial Injury during Percutaneous Coronary Intervention: How can it be prevented?
Authors: Kabir CM Shaheen , Haq M Maksumul , Rashid MA , Taimur Syed Dawood Md , Rahman Md Hasanur , Gomes Hemanta I , Salahuddin Md , Jahan Mah-Noor
Published: December 2013

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/icmj.v2i1.17418 Ibrahim Cardiac Med J 2012; 2(1): 51-56
Pulmonary Arterio-Venous Malformation (PAVM): A diagnostic dilemma
Authors: Ghafoor Nusrat , Siraj Nawshin , Islam SM Shaheedul , Haque Md Ziaul , Abedin Naffisa , Chakma Kowshik
Published: December 2013

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/icmj.v2i1.17419 Ibrahim Cardiac Med J 2012; 2(1): 57-60
Extraction and Characterization of Highly Gelling Low Methoxy Pectin from Cashew Apple Pomace
Authors: Yapo Beda , Koffi Kouassi
Published: December 2013

Investigation on the pectic substances of cashew (Anacardium occidentale L.) apple under different acid-extraction conditions (pH 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0) showed that more than 10%–25% of A. occidentale pectins (AOP) could be extracted, depending on the extractant strength. The extracted AOP contained high amounts of galacturonic acid (GalA: 69.9%–84.5%) with some neutral sugars of which rhamnose (Rha: 1.3%–2.5%), arabinose (Ara: 2.6%–5.4%), and galactose (Gal: 4.7%–8.6%) were the main constituents. The degree of methoxylation (DM) was in the range of 28%–46% and was only slightly affected by the extractant strength, thereby indicating isolation of naturally low methoxy pectins (LMP). In terms of gelling capability, AOP yielded firmer Ca2+-mediated LMP gels than commercial citrus LMP with comparable DM. Cashew apple pomace, therefore, appears to be a potentially viable source for possible production of “non-chemically or enzymatically-tailored” LMP.
Gluten Detection and Speciation by Liquid Chromatography Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)
Authors: Lock Stephen
Published: December 2013

Liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) has been used historically in proteomics research for over 20 years. However, until recently LC-MS/MS has only been routinely used in food testing for small molecule contaminant detection, for example pesticide and veterinary residue detection, and not as a replacement of microbiological food testing methods, specifically allergen analysis. Over the last couple of years, articles have started to be published which describe the detection of allergens by LC-MS/MS. In this article we will describe how LC-MS/MS can be applied in the area of gluten detection and how it can be used to specifically differentiate the species of gluten used in food, where specific markers for each variety of gluten can be simultaneously acquired and detected at the same time. The article will discuss the effect of variety on the peptide response observed from different wheat grain varieties and will describe the sample preparation protocol which is essential for generating the peptide markers used for speciation.
The Challenges of the Humanities, Past, Present, and Future: Why the Middle Ages Mean So Much for Us Today and Tomorrow
Authors: Classen Albrecht
Published: December 2013

Every generation faces the same challenge, to engage with the past and to cope with the present, while building its future. However, the questions and problems inherent in human life remain the same. It is a given that our society can only progress if we work toward handling ever newly rising demands in appropriate ways based on what we know and understand in practical and theoretical terms; but the drumming toward the future cannot be a one-way street. Instead, we have to operate with a Janus-faced strategy, with one eye kept toward tomorrow, and the other eye toward yesterday. Culture is, however we want to define it, always a composite of many different elements. Here I argue that if one takes out the past as the foundation of culture, one endangers the further development of culture at large and becomes victim of an overarching and controlling master narrative. This article does not insist on the past being the absolute conditio sine qua non in all our activities, but it suggests that the metaphorical ship of our cultural existence will not operate successfully without an anchor, the past. I will illustrate this claim with reference to some examples from medieval literature, philosophy, and religion as they potentially impact our present in multiple fashions.
Treated Wastewater Effluent as a Source of Microbial Pollution of Surface Water Resources
Authors: Naidoo Shalinee , Olaniran Ademola
Published: December 2013

Since 1990, more than 1.8 billion people have gained access to potable water and improved sanitation worldwide. Whilst this represents a vital step towards improving global health and well-being, accelerated population growth coupled with rapid urbanization has further strained existing water supplies. Whilst South Africa aims at spending 0.5% of its GDP on improving sanitation, additional factors such as hydrological variability and growing agricultural needs have further increased dependence on this finite resource. Increasing pressure on existing wastewater treatment plants has led to the discharge of inadequately treated effluent, reinforcing the need to improve and adopt more stringent methods for monitoring discharged effluent and surrounding water sources. This review provides an overview of the relative efficiencies of the different steps involved in wastewater treatment as well as the commonly detected microbial indicators with their associated health implications. In addition, it highlights the need to enforce more stringent measures to ensure compliance of treated effluent quality to the existing guidelines.
Composite Electrolyte Membranes from Partially Fluorinated Polymer and Hyperbranched, Sulfonated Polysulfone
Authors: Subianto Surya , Choudhury Namita , Dutta Naba
Published: December 2013

Macromolecular modification of poly(vinylidene fluoride-co-hexafluoropropylene) (PVDF) was done with various proportions of sulfonic acid terminated, hyperbranched polysulfone (HPSU) with a view to prepare ion conducting membranes. The PVDF-co-HFP was first chemically modified by dehydrofluorination and chlorosulfonation in order to make the membrane more hydrophilic as well as to introduce unsaturation, which would allow crosslinking of the PVDF-co-HFP matrix to improve the stability of the membrane. The modified samples were characterized for ion exchange capacity, morphology, and performance. The HPSU modified S-PVDF membrane shows good stability and ionic conductivity of 5.1 mS cm−1 at 80 °C and 100% RH for blends containing 20% HPSU, which is higher than the literature values for equivalent blend membranes using Nafion. SEM analysis of the blend membranes containing 15% or more HPSU shows the presence of spherical domains with a size range of 300–800 nm within the membranes, which are believed to be the HPSU-rich area.
A New Phenylpyrazoleanilide, Y-320, Inhibits Interleukin 17 Production and Ameliorates Collagen-Induced Arthritis in Mice and Cynomolgus Monkeys
Authors: Ushio Hiroyuki , Ishibuchi Seigo , Oshita Koichi , Seki Noriyasu , Kataoka Hirotoshi , Sugahara Kunio , Adachi Kunitomo , Chiba Kenji
Published: December 2013

Interleukin (IL)-15 and IL-17 are thought to play an important role in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) because both pro-inflammatory cytokines are found in synovial fluid of RA patients. In this study, we examined the pharmacological profiles of Y-320, a new phenylpyrazoleanilide immunomodulator. Y-320 inhibited IL-17 production by CD4 T cells stimulated with IL-15 with IC50 values of 20 to 60 nM. Oral administration of Y-320 (0.3 to 3 mg/kg) significantly inhibited the development and progression of arthritis and joint destruction with reduction of IL-17 mRNA expression in arthritic joints of type II collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) in DBA/1J mice. Y-320 in combination with anti-murine tumor necrosis factor-α monoclonal antibody showed a synergistic effect on mouse CIA. Moreover, therapeutic treatment with Y-320 (0.3 and 1 mg/kg orally) ameliorated CIA in cynomolgus monkeys. Our results suggest that Y-320, an orally active inhibitor for IL-17 production, provides a useful therapy for RA.