bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inflammation and Cognitive Dysfunction in Type 2 Diabetic Carotid Endarterectomy Patients
Authors: Heyer Eric J. , Mergeche Joanna L. , Bruce Samuel S. , Connolly E. Sander
Published: June 2013

OBJECTIVE

Type 2 diabetic patients have a high incidence of cerebrovascular disease, elevated inflammation, and high risk of developing cognitive dysfunction following carotid endarterectomy (CEA). To elucidate the relationship between inflammation and the risk of cognitive dysfunction in type 2 diabetic patients, we aim to determine whether elevated levels of systemic inflammatory markers are associated with cognitive dysfunction 1 day after CEA.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

One hundred fifteen type 2 diabetic CEA patients and 156 reference surgical patients were recruited with written informed consent in this single-center cohort study. All patients were evaluated with an extensive battery of neuropsychometric tests. Preoperative monocyte counts, HbA1c, C-reactive protein (CRP), intercellular adhesion molecule 1, and matrix metalloproteinase 9 activity levels were obtained.

RESULTS

In a multivariate logistic regression model constructed to identify predictors of cognitive dysfunction in type 2 diabetic CEA patients, each unit of monocyte counts (odds ratio [OR] 1.76 [95% CI 1.17–2.93]; P = 0.005) and CRP (OR 1.17 [1.10–1.29]; P < 0.001) was significantly associated with higher odds of developing cognitive dysfunction 1 day after CEA in type 2 diabetic patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Type 2 diabetic patients with elevated levels of preoperative systemic inflammatory markers exhibit more cognitive dysfunction 1 day after CEA. These observations have implications for the preoperative medical management of this high-risk group of surgical patients undergoing carotid revascularization with CEA.
Antioxidants in Organophosphorus Compounds Poisoning
Authors: M Nurulain Syed , Szegi Peter , Tekes Kornèlia , Nh Naqvi Syed
Published: June 2013

Oxidative stress has recently been implicated as a factor in the mortality and morbidity induced by organophosphorus (OP) compound poisoning. An overwhelming number of research papers are based on studying at the cellular and organ level. Such studies have concluded that antioxidants can be used as an adjunct compound in the treatment of both chronic as well as acute OP poisoning. Still, the role of antioxidants in reducing the mortality and morbidity induced by OP compounds has scarcely been verified, as well as their role as adjunct treatment compounds for both structurally and functionally different OP compounds. The present review of the literature was undertaken to establish the role of antioxidants in survival studies following acute exposure to OP compounds. The review found no substantial evidence that antioxidants demonstrate any positive effect following extremely toxic poisoning. However, for a more comprehensive and rational conclusion, further research needs to be conducted.
Selection of variables in Discrete Discriminant Analysis
Authors: Marques Anabela , Sousa Ferreira Ana , Cardoso Margarida G.M.S.
Published: June 2013

In Discrete Discriminant Analysis one often has to deal with dimensionality problems. In fact, even a moderate number of explanatory variables leads to an enormous number of possible states (outcomes) when compared to the number of objects under study, as occurs particularly in the social sciences, humanities and health-related elds. As a consequence, classi cation or discriminant models may exhibit poor performance due to the large number of parameters to be estimated. In the present paper, we discuss variable selection techniques which aim to address the issue of dimensionality. We speci cally perform classi cation using a combined model approach. In this setting, variable selection is particularly pertinent, enabling the handling of degrees of freedom and reducing computational cost.
Clustering of Symbolic Data based on Affinity Coefficient: Application to a Real Data Set
Authors: Sousa Áurea , Bacelar-Nicolau Helena , Nicolau Fernando C. , Silva Osvaldo
Published: June 2013

In this paper, we illustrate an application of Ascendant Hierarchical Cluster Analysis (AHCA) to complex data taken from the literature (interval data), based on the standardized weighted generalized affinity coefficient, by the method of Wald and Wolfowitz. The probabilistic aggregation criteria used belong to a parametric family of methods under the probabilistic approach of AHCA, named VL methodology. Finally, we compare the results achieved using our approach with those obtained by other authors.
Analysis of the relationship between coefficients of relatedness and molecular similarity of parental forms with respect to the heterosis effect in maize
Authors: Tomkowiak Agnieszka , Broda Zbigniew , Moliński Krzysztof , Molińska-Glura Marta , Adamczyk Józef
Published: June 2013

Within the last twenty years studies have been conducted at many research centers with the aim of dividing breeding materials into heterotic groups based on molecular markers. Molecular techniques make it possible to study the genetic purity of inbred lines, determine their genetic variability and classify breeding materials for which no information is available on their origin. This study aims to investigate relationships between coefficients of relatedness (pedigree analysis) and molecular similarity estimated on the basis of AFLP and RAPD molecular markers, between parental forms of F1 maize hybrids. Determination of these relationships will make it possible to establish a hierarchy of importance for applied methods concerning selection of parental components for heterotic crossings based on the degree of relatedness and genetic similarity. As a result of the experiment it was shown that in the case of incomplete pedigree information, in the selection of parental components for crossings we may use information concerning molecular similarity determined using AFLP markers and the Jaccard index, which to the least degree differentiates matrices of AFLP and RAPD molecular similarity.
Interior Penalty Discontinuous Approximations of Elliptic Problems
Authors: Lazarov Raytcho D. , Tomov Stanimire Z. , Vassilevski Panayot S.
Published: June 2013

This paper studies an interior penalty discontinuous approximation of
elliptic problems on nonmatching grids. Error analysis, interface domain decomposition
type preconditioners, as well as numerical results illustrating both discretization errors
and condition number estimates of the problem and reduced forms of it are presented.
Supraconvergence of a Finite Difference Scheme for Elliptic Boundary Value Problems of the Third Kind in Fractional Order Sobolev Spaces
Authors: Emmrich E. , Grigorieff R.D.
Published: June 2013

In this paper, we study the convergence of the finite difference discretization
of a second order elliptic equation with variable coefficients subject to general
boundary conditions. We prove that the scheme exhibits the phenomenon of supraconvergence
on nonuniform grids, i.e., although the truncation error is in general of
the first order alone, one has second order convergence. All error
estimates are strictly local.
Another result of the paper is a close relationship between finite difference scheme
and linear finite element methods combined with a special kind of quadrature. As
a consequence, the results of the paper can be viewed as the introduction of a fully
discrete finite element method for which the gradient is superclose. A numerical example is given.
Development of the Tau Method for the Numerical Solution of Two-dimensional Linear Volterra Integro-differential Equations
Authors: Tari A. , Rahimi M. Y. , Shahmorad S. , Talati F.
Published: June 2013

In this paper, we consider a general form of two-dimensional linear
Volterra integro-differential equations(TDLVIDE) of the second order with some sup-
plementary conditions and develop the operational Tau method with standard base for
obtaining a numerical solution.
On the Recovery of Continuous Functions from Noisy Fourier Coefficients
Authors: Sharipov Kosnazar
Published: June 2013

We consider the classical ill-posed problem of the recovery of
continuous functions from noisy Fourier coefficients. For the classes
of functions given in terms of generalized smoothness, we present
a priori and a posteriori regularization parameter choice realizing
an order-optimal error bound.
Native selenium as a byproduct of microbial oxidation of distorted pyrite crystals: the first occurrence in the Carpathians
Authors: Szełęg Eligiusz , Janeczek Janusz , Metelski Paweł
Published: June 2013

Acicular crystals of native selenium up to 30 μm long occur together with barite on the surface of goethite partial pseudomorphs after millimeter-sized pseudotetragonal-prismatic pyrite crystals in calcite veins that cross-cut Senonian sandstones of the Silesian Nappe in the western Polish Outer Carpathians. Native selenium originated from selenium apparently released during bacteria-induced oxidation of pyrite at neutral or near-neutral pH conditions. Oxidizing bacteria preferentially colonized {100} faces of pyrite relative {111} faces.
Gallium and germanium geochemistry during magmatic fractionation and post-magmatic alteration in different types of granitoids: a case study from the Bohemian Massif (Czech Republic)
Authors: Breiter Karel , Gardenová Nina , Kanický Viktor , Vaculovič Tomáš
Published: June 2013

Contents of Ga and Ge in granites, rhyolites, orthogneisses and greisens of different geochemical types from the Bohemian Massif were studied using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry analysis of typical whole-rock samples. The contents of both elements generally increase during fractionation of granitic melts: Ga from 16 to 77 ppm and Ge from 1 to 5 ppm. The differences in Ge and Ga contents between strongly peraluminous (S-type) and slightly peraluminous (A-type) granites were negligible. The elemental ratios of Si/1000Ge and Al/1000Ga significantly decreased during magmatic fraction: from ca. 320 to 62 and from 4.6 to 1.2, respectively. During greisenization, Ge is enriched and hosted in newly formed hydrothermal topaz, while Ga is dispersed into fluid. The graph Al/Ga vs. Y/Ho seems to be useful tool for geochemical interpretation of highly evolved granitoids.
The Influence of Honey Bee (Apis Mellifera) Drone Age on Volume of Semen and Viability of Spermatozoa
Authors: Czekońska Krystyna , Chuda-Mickiewicz Bożena , Chorbiński Paweł
Published: June 2013

A comparison was done of the volume of semen and viability of spermatozoa collected from drones at ages 15, 20, 25 and 30 days. The drones originated from different queens and were reared in different environments. Semen volume was determined by measuring the filled length of a capillary. Percentages of live and dead spermatozoa were determined by SYBR-14/propidium iodide fluorescence staining and flow cytometry. The volume of semen collected from drones ranged from 0.5 to 1.3 μL. The mean volume of semen significantly decreased with drone age. Sperm viability increased significantly with drone age.
Effect of Barley and Buckwheat Grain Processing on the Development and Feeding of the Confused Flour Beetle
Authors: Kordan Bożena , Gabryś Beata
Published: June 2013

The consequences of pearling and cutting (barley Hordeum vulgare L.), and roasting and cutting (buckwheat Fagopyrum esculentum Möench) on the development and food consumption of the confused flour beetle Tribolium confusum Duv. were studied. The factors affecting the increase in the T. confusum population, and food consumption effectiveness (the proportion of wasted food in the whole amount of the used product) were different in barley and buckwheat. The best barley product for T. confusum was the flour. The population number, the proportion of imagines, and the effectiveness of food consumption were relatively high for cut groats, compared to whole barley. The toughness of the whole groats was most likely the cause of the lowest suitability of this product for the confused flour beetle. Neither the size of the cut groats nor the pearling of barley had any effect on T. confusum development and food consumption effectiveness. The best buckwheat product for T. confusum was the whole hulled non-processed groats. In these groats, the total population number, the proportion of imagines, and the effectiveness of food consumption were relatively high compared to cut groats. The total population number was the lowest in the steamed groats. The decrease in nutrients and B vitamins due to the removal of the embryo and aleurone layer during the breaking process of buckwheat, was possibly the main factor affecting T. confusum development and food consumption in buckwheat.
Automatic Calibration of Stereoscopic Cameras in an Electronic Travel Aid for the Blind
Authors: Peczyński Paweł , Ostrowski Bartosz
Published: June 2013

The article describes a technique developed for identification of extrinsic parameters of a stereovision camera system for the purpose of image rectification without the use of reference calibration objects. The goal of the presented algorithm is the determination of the mutual position of cameras, under the assumption that they can be modeled by pinhole cameras, are separated by a fixed distance and are moving through a stationary scene. The developed method was verified experimentally on image sequences of a scene with a known structure.
Measures to reduce the residual field and field gradient inside a magnetically shielded room by a factor of more than 10
Authors: Voigt Jens , Knappe-Grüneberg Silvia , Schnabel Allard , Körber Rainer , Burghoff Martin
Published: June 2013

Very low residual magnetic field and field gradients are essential for a number of high resolution fundamental physical experiments and for further improvement of very sensitive magnetic measurement devices. The scope ranges from spin precession experiments, e.g. with 3He or neutrons, to biomagnetic measurements, like magnetoencephalograms, and to low field MR spectroscopy. One method of reducing environmental magnetic noise is to use a magnetically shielded room (MSR). Here, measures are demonstrated to improve residual field and field gradient inside a common MSR by a factor of more than 10 by a specific degaussing procedure, material selection of prefabricated parts and active shielding. The process is independent of the shielding factor and works also properly for heavily shielded rooms.
A Current Decomposition-Based Method for Computationally Efficient Implementation of Power Resolution Meters in Non- Sinusoidal Single-Phase Systems
Authors: Balci Murat Erhan , Hocaoglu Mehmet Hakan
Published: June 2013

For non-sinusoidal single-phase systems, the classical apparent power has been divided into various components using different techniques. These power resolutions generally aim at to provide a tool for the accurate determination of the maximum power factor achievable with a passive compensator and to measure the load.s nonlinearity degree. This paper presents a current decomposition-based methodology that can be employed for computationally efficient implementation of the widely recognized non-sinusoidal power resolutions. The proposed measurement method and the original expressions of the power resolutions are comparatively evaluated by considering their computational complexity. The results show that the proposed method has a significant advantage in terms of computational efficiency for the simultaneous measurements of the powers when compared with the original expressions. Finally, in this paper, a PC-based power meter is developed using the proposed measurement method via the LabVIEW programme.
A 128-Channel High Precision Time Measurement Module
Authors: Kang Longfei , Zhao Lei , Zhou Jiawen , An Qi
Published: June 2013

In the external target experiment for heavy ion collisions in the HIRFL-CSR, Multi-Wire Drift Chambers are used to measure the drift time of charged particles to obtain the track information. This 128-channel high precision time measurement module is designed to perform the time digitization. The data transfer is based on a PXI interface to guarantee a high data rate. Test results show that a 100 ps resolution with a data transfer rate up to 40 MBps has been achieved; this module has also been proven to function well with the detector through a commissioning test.
A Multi-Band Integrated Virtual Calibration-Inversion Method for Open Path FTIR Spectrometry
Authors: Cięszczyk Sławomir
Published: June 2013

This paper addresses problems arising from in situ measurement of gas content and temperature. Such measurements can be considered indirect. Transmittance or natural radiation of a gas is measured directly. The latter method (spectral radiation measurement) is often called spectral remote sensing. Its primary uses are in astronomy and in the measurement of atmospheric composition. In industrial processes, in situ spectroscopic measurements in the plant are often made with an open path Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectrometer. The main difficulty in this approach is related to the calibration process, which often cannot be carried out in the manner used in the laboratory. Spectral information can be obtained from open path spectroscopic measurements using mathematical modeling, and by solving the inverse problem. Determination of gas content based on spectral measurements requires comparison of the measured and modeled spectra. This paper proposes a method for the simultaneous use of multiple lines to determine the gas content. The integrated absorptions of many spectral lines permits calculation of the average band absorption. An inverse model based on neural networks is used to determine gas content based on mid-infrared spectra at variable temperatures.
Kalman Filter Based Method for Fault Diagnosis of Analog Circuits
Authors: Li Xifeng , Xie Yongle , Bi Dongjie , Ao Yongcai
Published: June 2013

This paper presents a Kalman filter based method for diagnosing both parametric and catastrophic faults in analog circuits. Two major innovations are presented, i.e., the Kalman filter based technique, which can significantly improve the efficiency of diagnosing a fault through an iterative structure, and the Shannon entropy to mitigate the influence of component tolerance. Both these concepts help to achieve higher performance and lower testing cost while maintaining the circuit.s functionality. Our simulations demonstrate that using the Kalman filter based technique leads to good results of fault detection and fault location of analog circuits. Meanwhile, the parasitics, as a result of enhancing accessibility by adding test points, are reduced to minimum, that is, the data used for diagnosis is directly obtained from the system primary output pins in our method. The simulations also show that decision boundaries among faulty circuits have small variations over a wide range of noise-immunity requirements. In addition, experimental results show that the proposed method is superior to the test method based on the subband decomposition combined with coherence function, arisen recently.
Effects of Nicotiana Tobaccum Extract Additive on the Quality of Electroplating of Zinc on Mild Steel
Authors: Loto C.A. , Loto R.T.
Published: June 2013

Experimental investigations have been performed to determine the effects of nicotiana tobaccum (tobacco) extract additive on the electrodeposition of zinc on mild steel in acid chloride solution. The experiments were performed under different plating time, different additive concentrations and fixed pH conditions. Zinc electrodeposition on mild steel was performed using a DC - supply at defined operating parameters. The surface of the plated steel was examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM); and Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS) for the surface elemental composition analysis. Different surface characteristics were obtained depending upon the concentration of the additive and the plating time. The corrosion resistance of the plated surface was also determined by a gravimetric method. The quality of the electro-deposition of zinc was good as indicated by the microstructural morphology of the plated surface except for the few porosities observed. The electrodeposition process was sensitive to the changes in the additive concentration and plating time. Any variation in the plating parameter produced an entirely new and different surface morphology.
Becoming a Sport Psychologist: Experiences of a Volunteer
Authors: Mărgărit Elena-Mădălina
Published: June 2013

Reflective practice is a tool that sport psychologists use in order to make sense of their experiences, manage themselves personally and professionally, and ultimately improve their consultancy effectiveness. Nonetheless, the final product of reflections offers important resources of knowledge-in-action, so much required in the sport psychology field (Anderson, Knowles, & Gilbourne, 2004). Thus, this article provides an account of a volunteer’s sport psychology practicum experience, making the case for reflective practice. The paper reports on the application of a selfdetermination theory (SDT; Deci & Ryan, 1985; Ryan & Deci, 2000) and motivational interviewing (MI; Rollnick & Miller, 1995; Miller & Rollnick, 2002) based intervention with a rhythmic gymnastics trainee coach. The experiential knowledge gained by the volunteer is shared via a narrative in the form of a case study. The narrative is organized in different sections, offering an overview of the setting, the coach and her athletes, the intervention and self-reflections. The theoretical and practical underpinnings of the intervention, as well as the thought process which accompanied the work described are highlighted. A more in depth understanding of the process on how sport psychology services are delivered by a volunteer/trainee is depicted to guide other volunteers or aspiring professionals during their initial practical experiences.
Does Centralization Serve Efficiency ? De-Agencification in Hungary
Authors: Gellén Márton
Published: June 2013

For a long time, Hungary has been known for its quick and promising development of stable democratic institutions that made it a reference country in the CEE region during the1990s and the early 2000s. However, a series of economic crises threw light on the efficiency defects of the operations of the Hungarian public administration emerging in the late 2000s. Thus a new series of structural and operational reforms was launched recently, inspired by the current stern economic times. These reform steps can be briefly characterized by the labels of concentration and centralization affecting the entire corpus of administration. In practical terms, Hungary makes an attempt to adapt to the current economic conditions via increasing efficiency and via more effective coordination while trying to conserve the achievements of the transition period. The article briefly introduces the major changes so far and offers a rationale to understand the motives of the reform. The article examines these questions based on empirical data and research
Where Boys, Girls and Children Come From
Authors: Hlebec Boris
Published: June 2013

The etymology of three very frequent English words child, girl and boy has been notoriously obscure because researchers have failed to pay attention to possible Slavic influence. This article is aimed at rectifying this major oversight by providing abundant evidence of both formal and semantic similarities between the English items and the corresponding Slavic ones and at establishing Scandinavian as an intermediary for girl and boy, no such connector being necessary for child.
The long-legged buzzard (Buteo rufinus) in Slovakia in the past and present
Authors: Danko Štefan
Published: June 2013

In the 1 9th century the long-legged buzzard bred in the Balkan Peninsula only in Greece. From the first half of the 20th century it began to expand to the north, and at the end of 201 2 the northern boundary of its breeding expansion in south-eastern Europe extended to central Hungary, south-western Romania, Romanian Dobruja, the southern half of Ukraine and along the western border of Kazakhstan. In the work are 232 faunistic data on the occurrence of the species on the territory of Slovakia from the year 1 870 to the end of 201 2. In the period from 1 911-1 950 only 7 cases were found here; from the period 1 951-2000 43 observations exist, and for the short period from 2001-201 2 there are as many as 1 80, of which 98 occurred in the year 201 2 alone. The text in particular evaluates the invasive occurrence of the species in 201 2 in Slovakia and its neighbouring countries (Austria, Czech Republic and Poland). Given this increasing trend in the frequency of occurrence of the long-legged buzzard in Slovakia, its breeding on the territory of Slovakia in the near future can be anticipated, though by the end of 201 2 this had not yet to be confirmed.
Linear plasmids and their replication
Authors: Ahsan Sunjukta , Kabir Md Shahidul
Published: June 2013

It is still a common belief that plasmids are circular. However, linear plasmids have been reported to exist more than a decade ago. Two types of linear plasmids are known. One type contains covalently closed ends and are commonly found in Borrelia, the causative agent of tick fever. The other type is characterized by the covalent attachment of proteins at the 5' ends and exists in a number of bacterial genera including Streptomyces, Rhodococcus, Mycobacterium and Planobispora. Recently, a linear plasmid in Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi of the Enterobacteriaceae family have been reported for the first time. This paper reviews various postulated mechanisms of replication of linear plasmids and focuses on the components of the replication machinery of linear plasmids studied to date. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/sjm.v2i1.15200 Stamford Journal of Microbiology, Vol.2(1) 2012: 1-5
Isolation and identification of bacteria from tracheas and lungs of buffaloes in Dinajpur
Authors: Ali Md Zulfekar , Sultana Shirin
Published: June 2013

The aim of the present study was the isolation and identification of bacteria from trachea and lung of slaughtered buffaloes. A total of 160 swab samples were collected from tracheas (80) and lungs (80) freshly slaughtered buffeloes from the slaughter houses of Dinajpur Sadar, Dinajpur, Bangladesh, during the period from June 2011 to February 2012. Among them, 9 tracheas (out of 80 samples) and 30 lungs (out of 80 samples) showed visible lesions. Bacterial isolates were identified based on their growth, morphological and biochemical characteristics. The most frequent (5%) bacterial isolate in tracheas was Staphylococcus spp. Pasteurella haemolytica and Staphylococcus spp. were isolated from different types of lung lesions in a frequency of 5% and 16.25%, respectively. P. haemolytica showed ?- haemolysis on blood agar and did not ferment lactose and dulcitol whereas dextrose, manitol and maltose were fermented with the production of acid. This investigation would be helpful for veterinarian for the detection, treatment and control of tracheal and lung diseases of buffaloes. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/sjm.v2i1.15211 Stamford Journal of Microbiology, Vol.2(1) 2012: 31-33
Congenital Unilateral Deafness Affects Cerebral Organization of Reading
Authors: Adorni Roberta , Manfredi Mirella , Proverbio Alice
Published: June 2013

It is known that early sensory deprivation modifies brain functional structure and connectivity. The aim of the present study was to investigate the neuro-functional organization of reading in a patient with profound congenital unilateral deafness. Using event-related potentials (ERPs), we compared cortical networks supporting the processing of written words in patient RA (completely deaf in the right ear since birth) and in a group of control volunteers. We found that congenital unilateral hearing deprivation modifies neural mechanisms of word reading. Indeed, while written word processing was left-lateralized in controls, we found a strong right lateralization of the fusiform and inferior occipital gyri activation in RA. This finding goes in the same direction of recent proposals that the ventral occipito-temporal activity in word reading seem to lateralize to the same hemisphere as the one involved in spoken language processing.
Genomic Instability: The Driving Force behind Refractory/Relapsing Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
Authors: Knecht Hans , Righolt Christiaan , Mai Sabine
Published: June 2013

In classical Hodgkin’s lymphoma (HL) the malignant mononuclear Hodgkin (H) and multinuclear, diagnostic Reed-Sternberg (RS) cells are rare and generally make up <3% of the total cellular mass of the affected lymph nodes. During recent years, the introduction of laser micro-dissection techniques at the single cell level has substantially improved our understanding of the molecular pathogenesis of HL. Gene expression profiling, comparative genomic hybridization analysis, micro-RNA expression profiling and viral oncogene sequencing have deepened our knowledge of numerous facets of H- and RS-cell gene expression deregulation. The question remains whether disturbed signaling pathways and deregulated transcription factors are at the origin of refractory/relapsing Hodgkin’s lymphoma or whether these hallmarks are at least partially related to another major factor. We recently showed that the 3D nuclear organization of telomeres and chromosomes marked the transition from H- to RS-cells in HL cell lines. This transition is associated with progression of telomere dysfunction, shelterin disruption and progression of complex chromosomal rearrangements. We reported analogous findings in refractory/relapsing HL and identified the shelterin proteins TRF1, TRF2 and POT1 as targets of the LMP1 oncogene in post-germinal center B-cells. Here we summarize our findings, including data not previously published, and propose a model in which progressive disruption of nuclear integrity, a form of genomic instability, is the key-player in refractory/relapsing HL. Therapeutic approaches should take these findings into account.
Synthesis, Structure and Spectroscopy of Two Structurally Related Hydrogen Bonded Compounds in the dpma/HClO4 System; dpma (dimethylphosphoryl)methanamine
Authors: Buhl Daniel , Gün Hülya , Jablonka Alexander , Reiss Guido J.
Published: June 2013

The new phosphine oxide compound, (dimethylphosphoryl)methanaminium perchlorate, dpmaHClO4 (1), was synthesized by the reaction of (dimethylphosphoryl) methanamine (dpma) with concentrated perchloric acid. (Dimethylphosphoryl)methanaminium perchlorate (dimethylphosphoryl)methanamine solvate, dpmaHClO4•dpma (2) was obtained by the slow evaporation of an equimolar methanolic solution of 1 and dpma at room temperature. For both compounds, single-crystal X-ray structures, IR and Raman spectra are reported. The assignment of the spectroscopic data were supported by quantum chemical calculations at the B3LYP/6-311G(2d,p) level of theory. In 1, the dpmaH cations form polymeric, polar double-strands along [010] by head to tail connections via N–H∙∙∙O hydrogen bonds. The perchlorate anions are located between these strands attached by one medium strong and two weaker un-bifurcated hydrogen bonds (monoclinic, centrosymmetric space group C2/c, a = 17.8796(5) Å, b = 5.66867(14) Å, c = 17.0106(5) Å, β = 104.788(3)°, V = 1666.9(1) Å3, Z = 8, T = 293 K, R(F) [I > 2σ(I)] = 0.0391, wR(F2) [all] = 0.1113). In 2, besides the N–H∙∙∙O hydrogen bonds, medium strong N–H∙∙∙N hydrogen bonds are present. One dpmaH cation and the neutral dpma molecule are connected head to tail by two N–H∙∙∙O hydrogen bonds forming a monocationic cyclic unit. These cyclic units are further connected by N–H∙∙∙O and N–H∙∙∙N hydrogen bonds forming polymeric, polar double-strands along [001]. The perchlorate anions fill the gaps between these strands, and each [ClO4]− anion is weakly connected to the NH2 group by one N–H∙∙∙O hydrogen bond (orthorhombic, non-centrosymmetric space group Pca21 (No. 29), a = 18.5821(5) Å, b = 11.4320(3) Å, c = 6.89400(17) Å, V = 1464.50(6) Å3, Z = 4, T = 100 K, R(F) [I > 2σ(I)] = 0.0234, wR(F2) [all] = 0.0575). Both structures are structurally related, and their commonalities are discussed in terms of a graph-set analysis.
Evolutionary Medicine and Future of Humanity: Will Evolution Have the Final Word?
Authors: Saniotis Arthur , Henneberg Maciej
Published: June 2013

Evolutionary medicine in its classical form assumes that since cultural evolution is faster than biological evolution, ailments of modern people are a result of mismatch between adaptations to the past environments and current situations. A core principle is that we, humans, having evolved for millions of years in a specific natural environment (environment of evolutionary adaptation EEA) are biologically adapted to this past environment and the ancient lifestyle. This adaptation to the past produces major mismatch of our bodies with the present, highly anthropic and thus “artificial” living conditions. This article provides two areas of possible future evolution, diet and physical activity levels which have been dramatically altered in industrialised societies. Consequently, micro-evolution is an on-going process.
Interactions between Lactobacillus crispatus and Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)-Associated Bacterial Species in Initial Attachment and Biofilm Formation
Authors: Machado António , Jefferson Kimberly , Cerca Nuno
Published: June 2013

Certain anaerobic bacterial species tend to predominate the vaginal flora during bacterial vaginosis (BV), with Gardnerella vaginalis being the most common. However, the exact role of G. vaginalis in BV has not yet been determined. The main goal of this study was to test the hypothesis that G. vaginalis is an early colonizer, paving the way for intermediate (e.g., Fusobacterium nucleatum) and late colonizers (e.g., Prevotella bivia). Theoretically, in order to function as an early colonizer, species would need to be able to adhere to vaginal epithelium, even in the presence of vaginal lactobacilli. Therefore, we quantified adherence of G. vaginalis and other BV-associated bacteria to an inert surface pre-coated with Lactobacillus crispatus using a new Peptide Nucleic Acid (PNA) Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization (FISH) methodology. We found that G. vaginalis had the greatest capacity to adhere in the presence of L. crispatus. Theoretically, an early colonizer would contribute to the adherence and/or growth of additional species, so we next quantified the effect of G. vaginalis biofilms on the adherence and growth of other BV-associated species by quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (qPCR) technique. Interestingly, G. vaginalis derived a growth benefit from the addition of a second species, regardless of the species. Conversely, G. vaginalis biofilms enhanced the growth of P. bivia, and to a minor extent of F. nucleatum. These results contribute to our understanding of BV biofilm formation and the progression of the disorder.
Dose-Dependent Protective Effect of Bisperoxovanadium against Acute Cerebral Ischemia in a Rat Model of Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury
Authors: Guo Jian-Yi , Ding Jun , Yuan Fang , Chen Hao , Chen Shi-Wen , Tian Heng-Li
Published: June 2013

PTEN (phosphatase and tensin homologue deleted on chromosome 10) is a dual-specificity lipid and protein phosphatase. The loss of PTEN was originally discovered in numerous human cancers. PTEN inhibition by bisperoxovanadium (bpV) reduces neurological damage after ischemic brain injury. The purpose of this study was to identify the optimal neuroprotective dose of bpV when administrated after focal ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury in rats. Focal I/R injury was induced using the middle cerebral artery occlusion method. bpV at doses of 0.25, 0.50 and 1.0 mg/kg were injected intraperitoneally just after reperfusion, with saline serving as a vehicle control. A maximal reduction in brain injury was observed with 1.0 mg/kg bpV. This dose of bpV also significantly blocked apoptosis in the penumbral cortex of rats. This beneficial effect was associated with the increasing levels of Akt phosphorylation in the penumbral cortex. These results demonstrate that the pharmacological inhibition of PTEN protects against I/R injury in a dose-dependent manner and the protective effect might be induced through upregulation of the phosphoinositide-3 kinase/Akt pro-survival pathway, suggesting a new therapeutic strategy to combat ischemic brain injury.
Synthesis and Characterization of Rice Straw/Fe3O4 Nanocomposites by a Quick Precipitation Method
Authors: Khandanlou Roshanak , Ahmad Mansor , Shameli Kamyar , Kalantari Katayoon
Published: June 2013

Small sized magnetite iron oxide nanoparticles (Fe3O4-NPs) with were successfully synthesized on the surface of rice straw using the quick precipitation method in the absence of any heat treatment. Ferric chloride (FeCl3·6H2O), ferrous chloride (FeCl2·4H2O), sodium hydroxide (NaOH) and urea (CH4N2O) were used as Fe3O4-NPs precursors, reducing agent and stabilizer, respectively. The rice straw fibers were dispersed in deionized water, and then urea was added to the suspension, after that ferric and ferrous chloride were added to this mixture and stirred. After the absorption of iron ions on the surface layer of the fibers, the ions were reduced with NaOH by a quick precipitation method. The reaction was carried out under N2 gas. The mean diameter and standard deviation of metal oxide NPs synthesized in rice straw/Fe3O4 nanocomposites (NCs) were 9.93 ± 2.42 nm. The prepared rice straw/Fe3O4-NCS were characterized using powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDXF) and Fourier transforms infrared spectroscopy (FT‒IR). The rice straw/Fe3O4-NCs prepared by this method have magnetic properties.
Developing and Implementing All-in-One Standard Paediatric Parenteral Nutrition
Authors: Meyer Rosan , Timmermann Meike , Schulzke Sven , Kiss Caroline , Sidler Marc , Furlano Raoul
Published: June 2013

Parenteral nutrition (PN) is a feeding mode suitable for children that do not achieve requirements via the enteral route. For this intervention to be successful, healthcare professionals require: knowledge on nutrient requirements; access to an aseptic compounding facility; and a system that ensures adequate and safe delivery of PN. Previously, it was thought that individualised PN was the “gold standard” for delivering nutrients to children; however, studies have highlighted concerns regarding inadequate delivery of nutrients, prescribing and compounding errors. We, therefore, set out to develop and implement all-in-one (AIO) paediatric PN solutions. Through a systematic approach, four AIO PN solutions were developed: birth–two months of age (Ped 1); two months–10 kg (Ped 2); 11–15 kg (Ped 3); and 16–30 kg (Ped 4). We implemented them with the help of a teaching pack, over a one month time period, and reviewed usage at six months. At that time, five children initially received standard PN without electrolyte changes; but after a few days, electrolytes needed amendments, and three required individualised PN. A change to AIO PN is feasible and safe; however, some may require electrolyte changes, and there will always be those that will require individualised PN.
Body Fat Distribution and Insulin Resistance
Authors: Patel Pavankumar , Abate Nicola
Published: June 2013

The burden of obesity has increased globally over the last few decades and its association with insulin resistance and related cardio-metabolic problems have adversely affected our ability to reduce population morbidity and mortality. Traditionally, adipose tissue in the visceral fat depot has been considered a major culprit in the development of insulin resistance. However, there is a growing body of evidence supporting the role of subcutaneous truncal/abdominal adipose tissue in the development of insulin resistance. There are significant differences in the functional characteristics of subcutaneous abdominal/truncal vs. intraabdominal vs. gluteo-femoral fat depots. More recently, mounting evidence has been supporting the role of adipose tissue function in the development of metabolic complications independent of adipose tissue volume or distribution. Decreased capacity for adipocyte differentiation and angiogenesis along with adipocyte hypertrophy can trigger a vicious cycle of inflammation leading to subcutaneous adipose tissue dysfunction and ectopic fat deposition. Therapeutic lifestyle change continues to be the most important intervention in clinical practice to improve adipose tissue function and avoid development of insulin resistance and related cardio-metabolic complications.
Heated Allergens and Induction of Tolerance in Food Allergic Children
Authors: Netting Merryn , Makrides Maria , Gold Michael , Quinn Patrick , Penttila Irmeli
Published: June 2013

Food allergies are one of the first manifestations of allergic disease and have been shown to significantly impact on general health perception, parental emotional distress and family activities. It is estimated that in the Western world, almost one in ten children have an IgE-mediated allergy. Cow’s milk and egg allergy are common childhood allergies. Until recently, children with food allergy were advised to avoid all dietary exposure to the allergen to which they were sensitive, in the thought that consumption would exacerbate their allergy. However, recent publications indicate that up to 70% of children with egg allergy can tolerate egg baked in a cake or muffin without apparent reaction. Likewise, up to 75% of children can tolerate baked goods containing cow’s milk, and these children demonstrate IgE and IgG4 profiles indicative of tolerance development. This article will review the current literature regarding the use of heated food allergens as immunotherapy for children with cow’s milk and egg allergy.
Rupture d'équilibres au Mali
Authors: Chena Salim , Tisseron Antonin
Published: June 2013

L’intervention militaire franco-africaine au Mali, déclenchée le 11 janvier 2013, a permis la reconquête des régions du nord du pays, alors entre les mains de groupes jihadistes ayant évincé les rebelles touaregs du Mouvement national de libération de l’Azawad. La déstabilisation du Mali, si elle est la conséquence directe de la chute du régime de Mouammar Kadhafi, s’inscrit cependant dans des dynamiques plus anciennes renvoyant à la fois à la perception de l’autre, aux relations entre les pouvoirs et les territoires, aux évolutions du sacré et à l’attitude des principaux acteurs régionaux. Rendre intelligible la trajectoire du Mali durant l’année 2012 impose de la replacer dans le temps long, ne serait-ce que pour éviter tout manichéisme dans les analyses.
Peut-on parler de « seigneurs de guerre » dans la zone sahélo-saharienne ?
Authors: Bouquet Christian
Published: June 2013

Une approche de géographie politique permet de donner à la crise sahélo-saharienne un éclairage particulier. Ainsi sont soulignés le rôle des conditions naturelles dans la vulnérabilité et la fragilité des populations, obligées d’être mobiles pour survivre, le poids de l’histoire, mal connue mais fort bien assumée par les générations d’aujourd’hui, la dynamique démographique, plus inquiétante que réconfortante, et la déliquescence des États, qui ne sont plus en mesure de contrôler leurs territoires. Dans ce contexte, les recompositions spatiales auxquelles nous assistons relèvent-elles davantage d’une volonté de faire prévaloir un islam plus radical que du crime organisé par des seigneurs de guerre, fussent-ils jihadistes ?
Côte d'Ivoire : possibilités et limites d'une réconciliation
Authors: Charbonneau Bruno
Published: June 2013

En Côte d’Ivoire, malgré les déclarations d’intention des dirigeants ivoiriens, les obstacles politiques aux réformes sont nombreux, et parfois en contradiction avec l’objectif avoué de réconciliation. L’analyse des possibilités et des limites de cette réconciliation démontre que non seulement la consolidation de la paix piétine, mais que la situation politique favorise un gel des positions. Les limites de la réconciliation ivoirienne se retrouvent dans un équilibre de forces politiques qui profitent des conditions de sécurité précaires et d’un processus de réconciliation qui exacerbe les polarisations. Ainsi, le processus de réconciliation participe aux plus récentes pratiques d’inclusion et d’exclusion et à la militarisation croissante de la vie politique ivoirienne.
L'amélioration des conditions de travail à l'épreuve du système français de relations professionnelles : la négociation de l'accord interprofessionnel de 1975
Authors: Rochefort Thierry
Published: June 2013

La France a connu au début des années 1970 un intense débat autour de la problématique des conditions de travail. L’article se propose de restituer le processus de négociation de l’accord national sur le sujet qui s’est déroulé de 1973 à 1975. L’analyse de ce processus montre les blocages liés à la spécificité du système français de relations professionnelles, en particulier la difficulté à négocier au niveau le plus décentralisé. Ces blocages persistent-ils ou sont-ils au contraire levés ? L’article s’efforce d’apporter une réponse nuancée.
Des risques psychosociaux à la Qualité de Vie au Travail
Authors: Levet Pascale
Published: June 2013

Après avoir été relégués au second plan et pour partie escamotés par la traduction du changement de régime de mobilisation de la main-d’œuvre en termes de compétences, les enjeux du travail sont réapparus, canalisés en partie dans le champ des risques psychosociaux et les négociations auxquelles les entreprises ont été encouragées. Aujourd’hui, chacun admet qu’il est nécessaire de soutenir un renouvellement des cadres de référence qui peut s’articuler à une transition des risques psycho-sociaux à la Qualité de Vie au Travail. Celle-ci n’épuise évidemment pas le sujet, mais elle nous semble porteuse d’un creuset fécond pour réfléchir, expérimenter et progresser sur la voie d’un renouvellement de la négociation du travail.
Le rapport Sicard : une étape au milieu du gué
Authors: Mallet Donatien , Jacquemin Dominique
Published: June 2013

Dans un contexte de campagne présidentielle où François Hollande, candidat élu à la présidence de la République française, s’était engagé à ouvrir une «  assistance médicalisée pour terminer sa vie dans la dignité  », le rapport de la « commission de réflexion sur la fin de vie en France » présidé par le professeur Didier Sicard était attendu avec intérêt. S’appuyant sur des débats publics, il dresse un bilan particulièrement critique sur les conditions du mourir en France. En écho, il formule de nombreuses propositions. Certaines sollicitent le pouvoir politique dans sa capacité à contribuer à l’amélioration des pratiques de soins. Cela passe par des recommandations de bonnes pratiques en soins palliatifs, des procédures de certification, des recherches épidémiologiques. Il s’agit aussi de favoriser une meilleure diffusion et application des directives anticipées par une organisation adaptée. D’autres nécessitent une volonté et une mobilisation du pouvoir politique dans une optique réformiste. Cela implique une mutation des pratiques, des organisations et de la formation médicales focalisées à l’excès sur le scientifique et le curatif. Ces propositions s’inscrivent dans une optique de santé publique. Elles ne bénéficieraient pas uniquement aux patients en fin de vie, mais à toutes les personnes atteintes de maladies graves, chroniques ou vieillissantes. Leur application requiert un engagement continu et cohérent afin de déplacer les habitudes, les conservatismes ou les oppositions. Le troisième groupe de propositions n’est pas encore précisément défini. Si la commission Sicard ne recommande pas l’ouverture à une dépénalisation de l’euthanasie, elle propose la possibilité de geste létal dans les phases ultimes de l’accompagnement de fin de vie. Ces pratiques seraient encadrées par des recommandations. Sans en faire une recommandation, la commission s’interroge aussi sur l’ouverture au suicide assisté. Dans cette hypothèse, elle souhaite une implication conséquente de la médecine. S’appuyant sur notre expérience de cliniciens, d’enseignants, d’animateurs de groupes d’éthique et de chercheurs, nous proposons une synthèse du rapport Sicard puis une analyse détaillée, pragmatique et critique de ses diverses propositions.