bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
‘Labels or love’: The problem of the white wedding in Charlotte Brontë’s Jane Eyre and Sex and the City: The Movie
Authors: Varadi Anna
Published: January 2016

This article looks at the failure of the white ‘fairy-tale’ wedding in both a protofeminist and a post-feminist text (Charlotte Brontë’s Jane Eyre and Sex and the City: The Movie, respectively). It suggests that the pressure put on brides by the wedding and fashion industries – to have a lavish ceremony and an expensive designer dress – threatens the independence and identity of both Jane Eyre and Carrie Bradshaw. This threat is exacerbated since both women are marrying men who have been married before. The failure of their lavish wedding ceremonies is due to problems that arise from consumerist bridal ideals; the threat to female identity can only be eliminated by a second, ‘quiet’ ceremony that allows Jane and Carrie to enter into marriage outside of the consumerist ideology behind traditional weddings. The article concludes that the representation of ‘fairy-tale’ weddings and bridal fashion in the popular print media constitutes an ongoing feminist problem since the eighteenth century until today: there appears to be a continued consumerist push towards ‘spectacular’ ceremonies, which forces brides to choose between ‘labels or love’, and threatens the authenticity of marriage.
In Awe
Authors: Cowan Sam
Published: January 2016

This cartoon was created after I attended the ‘Graphic Details’ symposium at JW3 in November 2014. I felt very inspired after I met so many cartoonists I admired in person and heard them speak about their work and I felt, in Jewish cartoon terms, I had been touched by the holy of holies.
PRECONCEITO CULTURAL E O (RE)CONHECIMENTO DE DIREITOS
Authors: Cenci Daniel Rubens , Andrighetto Aline
Published: January 2016

O presente artigo procura explicar a importância do reconhecimento de identidades culturais para o papel democráti-co no Brasil e sua importância para a perspectiva da concepção liberal de democracia e a reconstrução da política, que deve at-ender à sociedade civil no que se refere às intervenções na socie-dade. Menciona alguns pontos na história do país onde se eviden-ciam ideais de preconceito contra a sociedade. Demonstra o caso mais recente e público de discriminação e preconceito ocorrido na Justiça Federal do Rio de Janeiro, por meio de decisão judicial, em que fora proferida sentença sobre vídeos ofensivos, de cunho racista, publicados na internet. Procura demonstrar na legislação vigente a proteção dos grupos vulneráveis a estas práticas abusi-vas, no tocante a noções de garantia e proteção para uma socie-dade mais justa e solidária. Importante também se faz reconhecer que o direito de culto reconhecido pela Constituição Federal se faça valer, afim de que se possa construir o papel social da religião e compreender de que maneira as noções dos homens e as suas disposições induzem a um sentido racional, humano e moral de respeito a todas as culturas étnicas.
Ethics, Emotion, and Aesthetics: Architecture After the Crisis of Modern Science
Authors: Pérez Gómez Alberto
Published: January 2016

Alberto Pérez Gómez first came to prominence as an architectural theorist and historian with his 1983 publication, Architecture and the Crisis of Modern Science; a book that won the Alice Davis Hitchcock Award for distinguished scholarship in architectural history the following year. Having established himself as one of the architecture world’s leading thinkers and most original historical theorists, he offered a book that completely broke all norms of either academic or architectural discourse; his 1992 treatise Polyphilo, or, The Dark Forest Revisited: An Erotic Epiphany of Architecture. The author and editor of numerous publications since, in 2007 he co-authored Towards an Ethical Architecture: Issues Within the Work of Gregory Henriquez, a publication “seeking to remind architects of the critical role they play in leading the creation of a community’s collective space”.

In the first of these seminal texts he illustrated how architecture was profoundly transformed by the scientific revolution of the eighteenth century - and how the consequences of that revolution are still dominant in architectural practice and discourse today. The second investigates architectural ‘beauty’ through the prism of erotic desire. Described as treading the borders of fiction, theory, and pornography, it epitomizes Pérez-Gómez’s desire to reframe architecture as an emotive, corporeal and visceral phenomenon in the context of today’s scientific and material society.

Running through these works is a constant argument that blurs the intellectual divisions of modern thinking – whether they be based on drawing a sharp distinction between the role of emotion and logic in architectural design; the part sentiments and feelings play in our use and understanding of the spaces we inhabit; or the divisions that have emerged in aesthetic and ethical theory that see the former as type of theorised formula and the latter as an isolated and fully quantifiable set of social practices. In addressing these issues, he begins this interview-article with comments on the phenomenological underpinnings in this thinking and his interest in both Edmund Husserl and Maurice Merleau-Ponty.
Social Practice and the Laissez-faire Metropolis: Dwight Perkins in Chicago, 1895 - 1915
Authors: Gray Jennifer
Published: January 2016

At the turn of the twentieth century, the Chicago-based architect Dwight Perkins designed a prescient metropolitan plan for the American city that reimagined the polis as a terrain for sociological investigation and political activism. He collaborated with social scientists affiliated with the University of Chicago and with local, grass-roots activists to leverage design as a vehicle for social change. He argued that strategically placed, small-scale interventions would ameliorate the devastating impact that unplanned growth had on the urban poor and that these spaces would advance democratic social ideals in a city highly segregated by race, ethnicity, and wealth.

Not only was Perkins a pioneer in understanding the city as a heterogeneous collection of cultural groups, he also rethought the manner in which the city was visualized by mediating its architectural representation through the lens of the social sciences. He abandoned illusionistic rendering techniques and illustrated the city as a series of sociological data-maps that combined statistical facts on population density, disease transmission, mortality rates, and criminal activity with geographic projections of Chicago. This new cartographic strategy helped him to identify and create public spaces and social services that benefited underprivileged communities. In doing so, Perkins was one of the first American architects to challenge the socio-economic conditions of the laissez-faire metropolis. Although largely ignored in histories of urban planning and architecture, his nascent social practice contributes to a critical reappraisal of cities that remains relevant today.
The Prevalence of Contact Dermatitis Among Occupational and Work-related Diseases. Correlation between Atopy and Allergic or Irritative Contact Dermatitis
Authors: Codruta-Dana Pitis , Alexandru Tataru
Published: January 2016

The prevalence of contact dermatitis (CD) in Europe varies between 6.7% and 10.6% depending on the sector of activity. Professional CD (PCD) has an important economic impact − 30% of the budget compensation for occupational disease. In Romania, the prevalence of PCD is underestimated, with an even distribution of cases with respect to the allergic or irritative mechanism. A retrospective clinical study was conducted; target population being the patients admitted in Occupational Medicine Clinic Cluj-Napoca between 2003 and 2011. Objectives of study were: specifying the prevalence range of allergic CD (ACD) / irritative CD (ICD) among occupational/work-related diseases, the distribution of allergic/irritative CD (A/ICD) for different sectors of activity and establishing the correlation between atopy and A/ICD. We have applied allergy skin tests - prick (environmental allergens) and patch (occupational allergens). Inclusion criteria were: -documented occupational exposure at skin allergens/irritants; -the atopy state; -diagnostic established at discharge. Patients with recurrent chronic urticaria, angioedema, hypereosinophilic syndrome have been excluded. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS software. The study indicated a similar prevalence for A/ICD, with similar distribution. Prevalence above average has been recorded in the metallurgy sector (A/ICD), in health care sector (ACD), respectively, textile industry (ICD). The correlation atopy-ACD has proved to be lower compared to previous reports. Regarding ICD, the diagnostic was confirmed frequently to non-atopic persons. We strongly recommend the compliance with a multidisciplinary protocol for the management of A/ICD, individualized for specific activity sectors or even work stations.
The Risk/Benefit Analysis of Oral Anticoagulant Treatment in Atrial Fibrillation Using HAS-BLED and CHA2DS2-VASc Score
Authors: Ionela Silivastru (Cozlea) , Laurentiu Cozlea Daniel , Attila Keresztesi Arthur , Gabriela Asofie , Laurentiu Cozlea , Galafteon Oltean , Daniela Dobru
Published: January 2016

Introduction. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the risk and the benefit of oral anticoagulant treatment in nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (AF) patients, using the two scores recommended by the guidelines: the CHA2DS2-VASc score and HAS-BLED score.

Material and method. We conducted a retrospective observational study on 144 patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation, admitted between 1st of July 2013 and 30th September 2013 in the 3rd Medical Clinic of Tîrgu Mureș with a prospectiv follow-up at 6 months.

Based on the data collected from the patient charts, the thromboembolic risk was assessed using the CHA2DS2-VASc score and the hemorrhage risk was assessed using the HAS-BLED score. At 6 months, the patients were contacted via telephone and were questioned regarding their state of health, the existence of hospitalizations in the last 6 months, the international normalized ratio (INR) value, the existence of hemorrhagic or thromboembolic events.

Results. The group of patients was composed of 70 female and 74 male with the mean age of 70 ±11 years. From the total number of patients 13 (11.7%) had a history of stroke and the CHA2DS2-VASc score revealed that these 13 were in the high risk class. The presence of arterial hypertension and vascular disease were statistically associated with stroke.

Hemorrhagic events were encountered in 19 patients (13.19%) and 16 of them had a higher than 3 HAS-BLED score. A history of bleeding, anemia and labile INR were the factors statistically associated with bleeding.

Conclusions. The CHA2DS2-VASc score is useful in stratifying patients with AF in risk groups for thromboembolic events while the HAS-BLED score proved to be a useful tool in predicting bleeding events in anticoagulated patients.
Amisulpride - An Athypical Antipsychotic?
Authors: George Echim , Cucuiet Sorina , Osz Bianca , Grosan Alexandra , Zsolt Gal , Dogaru Maria
Published: January 2016

Aim: the purpose of the present study was to determine the effects of amisulpride at different doses on body weight, glucidic and lipidic metabolism.

Material and method: Thirty-six white Wistar rats were treated daily for 9 weeks with amisulpride 1mg/kg and 10mg/kg body weight. Another group received distilled water and served as control group. At the end of the treatment period blood samples were collected and the follow biochemical parameters were determined: serum cholesterol, triglycerides, blood glucose, GOT, GPT. Body weight gain was also assessed weekly.

Results: After treatment with amisulpride in doses of 1mg/kg and 10 mg/kg for a period of nine weeks, weight gains were recorded for both groups compared with the initial weight and the control group. Blood glucose concentrations in the group treated with 1 mg amisulpride/kg body weight were significantly increased (p<0.05 vs control group), but in the group treated with 10 mg/kg body weight glucose levels were not statistically significant increased compared to controls. Other biochemical parameters (cholesterol, triglycerides, GOT, GPT) showed no statistically significant differences compared to control group.

Conclusions: amisulpride administered over a period of 9 weeks, in doses of 1mg/kg and 10mg/kg showed a slight increase of body weight regardless of gender, increased blood glucose only when was administered in the low dose, and does not affect lipid metabolism, even though decreased cholesterol and triglycerides levels. This results highlight a real benefit of treatment with amisulpride, comparatively with other athypical antipsychotics.
The Monitoring of Immunosuppressive Therapy with Tacrolimus in Patients with Kidney Transplant, Based on the Pharmacokinetic Criteria
Authors: Mihai Stoica Ciprian , Denise Căldăraru Carmen , Eugen Vari Camil , Ionuţ Tarţa Dorin , Titica Dogaru Maria , Emilian Caraşca , Aloiziu Dogaru Grigore
Published: January 2016

Background: Therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) in patients with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) with kidney transplant, represents a major post transplant concern due to the characteristics of this special category of patients, particularities which can generate changes of the pharmacokinetic profile of the administered medication.

Material and methods: The current study is a retrospective pharmacokinetic study, over a period of 50 months, including a group of 36 kidney transplanted patients with CKD. Tacrolimus blood concentration was determined by a validated high-performance liquid chromatography method (HPLC), at a 12 hour time interval from the last administration of the immunosuppressive medication and before the following dose (Residual concentration, Cmin(trough)).

Results: During the monitoring of therapy, based on the pharmacokinetic criteria, 252 measurements of blood concentration were determined, 58 of these being outside the therapeutic window.

Conclusions: The results obtained show that it is mandatory to continue to monitor closely medical therapy based on the pharmacokinetic criteria in view of improving drug administration. The other ways of monitoring therapy: the clinical and biochemical criteria should not be overlooked. In addition, the interindividual variability of patients should be considered, as well as drug interaction which can alter the pharmacokinetics of tacrolimus.
Surgical Management of Renal Hyperparathyroidism: Case Series and Review of the Literature
Authors: Mircea Neagoe Radu , Mircea Mureşan , Smaranda Văcar , Ioan Hossu , Ionela Paşcanu , Angela Borda , Daniela Sala
Published: January 2016

Secondary hyperparathyroidism (sHPT) occurs most commonly in the setting of chronic renal failure (CRF) being frequently referred to as “renal” hyperparathyroidism The “classical” medical treatment with oral calcium and vitamin D supplementation is generally sufficient to lower parathyroid hormone levels in the majority of these patients. However, we frequently encounter cases of severe refractory sHPT, a state in which even recently available therapeutic agents, i.e. calcimimetics, new phosphate binders, vitamin D analogues, remain inefficient, thus parathyroidectomy and/or renal transplant becoming necessary. Three types of surgeries have been proposed in sHPT: two of them are grouped as remnant-conserving techniques, i.e. subtotal parathyroidectomy (sPtx) and total parathyroidectomy with autotransplantation (tPtx+AT), the third one being total parathyroidectomy without autotransplantation (tPtx). There was a continuous debate concerning the best surgical approach in renal hyperparathyroidism, starting very soon after those techniques were described; without pretending to solve these controversies, this paper aims to review the surgical treatment options in sHPT, based on our 5-year experience in dealing with the disease.
The Assessment of Reperfusion Inflammatory Injury in Ischemic Preconditioned Diabetic Rats
Authors: Bianca-Liana Grigorescu , Ştefania Fodor Raluca , Alina Scridon , Marcel Perian , Iudita Badea , Adrian Dan Cioc , Simion Cotoi Ovidiu , Sanda-Maria Copotoiu , Leonard Azamfirei
Published: January 2016

Objective: The assessment of systemic reperfusion injury and the contractile force of the peripheral muscles post-acute ischemia of the hind limbs in healthy versus diabetic ischemic preconditioned rats.

Method: The study included 16 Wistar rats divided into two groups: the control group and the diabetic ischemic preconditioned group. Acute ischemia was induced, followed by reperfusion. The assessment of reperfusion injury used biochemical, histopathological and functional determinations (peak tetanic tension-PTT, specific tension-ST).

Results: Ischemia-reperfusion injury was more severe in control group regarding creatine-kinase (CK) (CK1=470.13 IU/L versus CK2=230.88 IU/L, p=0.0001) and myoglobin (390.25 ng/mL versus 47.99 ng/mL, p=0.025). Cytolysis enzymes were significantly increased in diabetic preconditioned rats (Alanine aminotransferase ALAT1=46 IU/L, ALAT2=167.8 IU/L, p=0.02; Aspartate aminotransferase ASAT1=106 IU/L, ASAT2=237.5 IU/L, p=0.016). Functional assessment (PTT and ST) highlighted roughly equal values. A paradoxical response occurred in diabetic rats (the contractile force increased during the period of the stimulation). Histopathological findings showed that rhabdomyolysis was more severe in the control group, while inflammatory systemic response due to reperfusion injury was less expressed in diabetic ischemic preconditioned rats.

Conclusions: Ischemic preconditioning reduces the severity of reperfusion injury and allows the preservation of contractile muscle function in diabetic rats.
Ambulatory Blood Pressure and Arterial Stiffness in Obese Children and Adolescents
Authors: Carmen Duicu , Oana Mărginean Cristina , Maria Pitea Ana , Elena Melit Lorena
Published: January 2016

The aim of the present study was to investigate differences regarding 24-hour blood pressure and arterial stiffness in a cohort of office normotensive obese and non-obese children and adolescents, and to evaluate correlations of these parameters with some anthropometric indices. We retrospectively evaluated ABPM records in 71 children (42 boys); 31 obese compared with 40 normal-weight children.

Results: Mean 24-hour, day-time and night-time SBP was significantly higher in the obese group than in the control group (p <0.01 during the entire period). Significantly higher AASI values were found in obese children compared to controls (0.45 vs. 0.41, p <0.05), the difference being more obvious for day-time AASI (p <0.001).

Conclusions: This research confirms that SBP and AASI are increased in obese children. AASI is a useful index of arterial stiffness that can be easily measured under ambulatory circumstances in children.
The Prevalence and Distribution of High Risk Human Papillomavirus Genotypes in Patients with Dysplastic Lesions: a Population Study
Authors: Septimiu Voidăzan , Silviu-Horia Morariu , Mihai Căpâlnă , Claudiu Mărginean , Minodora Dobreanu
Published: January 2016

Background. Cervical cancer (CC) is a major public health problem worldwide. Knowledge of human papillomavirus (HPV) genotype prevalence and distribution is important for the introduction of an effective vaccination program and the corresponding epidemiological monitoring. The aim of this study was to identify and analyze the distribution of high-risk HPV genotypes.

Methods. Data were collected from 136 patients for the detection of circulating HPV genotypes, where Pap test results revealed the presence of koilocytes or high risk (HR) dysplastic lesions, elements that raise the suspicion of HPV infection.

Results. HPV infection was identified in 72 (55.4%) of the patients tested, 34 (47.3%) with single infection, and 38 (52.7%) with multiple infections. Twenty-two different types of HPV were identified: 14 high risk HPV types, 7 low risk HPV types, 1 probable high risk HPV type. HPV 16 was the most frequently detected (55.6%) one, it was involved in single (15 cases) and multiple (25 cases) infections, primarily associated with type 18 (12 cases), and type 52 (11 cases). The presence of HPV 18 (29.2%) and HPV 52 (23.6%) was identified after HPV type 16.

Conclusions. Oncogenic HPV genotypes 16, 18, and 52 were most frequently associated in women with dysplastic lesions, which require the use of polyvalent HPV vaccines when assessing cross-protective effects of specific immunoprophylaxis programs.
The Role of Urodynamic Investigations in Management of Stress Urinary Incontinence
Authors: Ghirca Veronica Maria , Porav-Hodade D , Chibelean C , Voidazan S , Vartolomei M , Boja R , Martha Orsolya
Published: January 2016

Objective: The aim of this study is to establish the importance of urodynamic investigations in women diagnosed with stress urinary incontinence (SUI) who have indication of surgical treatment.

Methods: We performed a retrospective study over a period of 3 years (January 2012-December 2014) in Clinic of Urology from Tirgu Mures. The inclusion criteria were: female patients diagnosed with SUI having indication of surgical treatment and the existence of urodynamic investigations (uroflowmetry and pressure-flow study). We evaluated 118 patients with SUI. From this patients, 24 cases (20.3%) accomplished the criteria from above.

Results: We included in this study 24 patients aged 64.25+/−8.25 (standard deviation). Pressure-flow study revealed an impaired detrusor contraction in 13 cases. Statistical anaysis pouved a relation between existence of post void residual urine (PVR) and underactive detrusor (UD) (p=0.01). There is no correlation between maximum flow rate (Qmax) and UD, r=0.18 (CI= −0.2-0.5), p=0.3 and between normal value of Qmax and normal detrusor pressure (Pdet), r= 0,28(CI=−0.6-0.8), p=0.58. Also there is no relation between a low Qmax and UD, p=0,5. There is a statistical relation between increased abdominal pressure (Pabd) and UD, p=0.02.

Conclusions: Uroflowmetry has the role to guide us concerning the micturition process Pressure-flow study is indicated in management of SUI, in selected cases, in patients with voiding symptomatology, the suspicion of a detrusor contractility dysfunction, abnormal uroflowmetry results, existence of PVR, in prediction of the surgical treatment outcome or if we think that the findings can change the choice of treatment.
Ein einfacher Zustandsreglerentwurf im Zuge der Erweiterung der Systemstruktur um Reglerintegratoren und Rechentotzeiten
Authors: Nuß Uwe
Published: January 2016

Im vorliegenden Beitrag wird beschrieben, wie bereits entworfene Zustandsregler für proportional geregelte Systeme ohne Rechentotzeit auf einfache Art und Weise für Systeme mit Reglerintegratoren bzw. mit Rechentotzeit erweitert werden können. Das Ziel ist hierbei, den Aufwand zur Ermittlung der Reglermatrix zu reduzieren. Hierbei soll die bereits vorhandene, optimierte Regelkreisdynamik so wenig wie möglich verändert werden, wodurch bei Mehrgrößensystemen hinzukommende Freiheitsgrade sinnvoll festgelegt werden. Die Betrachtungen erfolgen für lineare zeitdiskrete Systeme und werden anhand eines Beispiels aus der elektrischen Antriebstechnik veranschaulicht.
Multiple Human Biometrics Fusion in Support of Cyberthreats Identification
Authors: Minchev Zlatogor
Published: January 2016

The paper is outlining an experimentally created framework for multiple human biometrics fusion in support to constantly evolving complex cyberthreats landscape identification. A “scenario method” approach, in combination with experts’ based decision support and users’ biometric “validation-in-advance”, are considered. Practical examples are also given to the proposed ideas, providing a comprehensive outlook to the problem.
The Impact of the Quality Assessment of Optimal Assignment for Data Association in a Multitarget Tracking Context
Authors: Dezert J. , Tchamova A. , Konstantinova P.
Published: January 2016

The main purpose of this paper is to apply and to test the performance of a new method, based on belief functions, proposed by Dezert et al. in order to evaluate the quality of the individual association pairings provided in the optimal data association solution for improving the performances of multisensor-multitarget tracking systems. The advantages of its implementation in an illustrative realistic surveillance context, when some of the association decisions are unreliable and doubtful and lead to potentially critical mistake, are discussed. A comparison with the results obtained on the base of Generalized Data Association is made.
Cloud Based Patient Monitoring Platform Using Android Smartphone Sensors
Authors: Nikolovski Vlatko , Lameski Petre , Chorbev Ivan
Published: January 2016

This paper presents a proof of the concept cloud based patient monitoring and self-care platform, powered by measurements provided from various smartphone sensors. The Cloud platform provides the infrastructure and computational capacity for calculation of the navigation and motion tracking system, fall detection monitoring, as well as emergency notifications. The navigation system uses the pedometer and fusion of the accelerometer, gyroscope and magnetometer sensors. It aims to estimate precisely the patient’s movement and location. While both navigation and tracking systems can independently determine the incremental movement and indoor localization of the patients, they are fused in order to provide more accurate estimations. The fall detection monitoring is enabled by processing the raw data collected from the smartphone’s accelerometer and gyroscope. Furthermore, the cloud system provides various statistics for the physical activity of the patients, based on measurements from the pedometer. Consequently, this paper proposes a proof of the concept cloud based platform that is scalable and highly responsive, used for real-time monitoring and tracking a large number of patients. It also provides indoor navigation and other self-care features.
On (n+1)-Hom-Lie algebras induced by n-Hom-Lie algebras
Authors: Kitouni Abdennour , Makhlouf Abdenacer , Silvestrov Sergei
Published: January 2016

The purpose of this paper is to study the relationships between an n-Hom-Lie algebra and its induced (n+1)-Hom-Lie algebra. We provide an overview of the theory and explore structure properties such as ideals, centers, derived series, solvability, nilpotency, central extensions, and the cohomology.
Manganese Oxides in Heterogeneous (Photo)Catalysis: Possibilities and Challenges
Authors: Ristig Simon , Cibura Niklas , Strunk Jennifer
Published: January 2016

The aim to develop active photocatalysts based on abundant elements for solar energy conversion reactions has sparked wide interest in manganese oxides as visible light-absorbing alternative to TiO2. Today, a multitude of different routes are available for the synthesis of MnO
x
species with specific stoichiometry, crystal structure, morphology, size or surface properties. Still, even for the bulk manganese oxides, some controversy remains, for example, with respect to the band gap, which hinders the targeted development of specific manganese oxide catalysts for photocatalysis. In classical heterogeneous catalysis and electrocatalysis, manganese oxides have been successfully used for a wide range of reactions, in particular in the field of (selective) oxidations. Photocatalytic applications have also been reported, but a true photocatalyst for the famous water-splitting reaction, deep insight into the prevailing mechanisms and an understanding of the involved processes has yet to be found. With this review, we aim to give a comprehensive overview over the structural, physical and catalytic properties of manganese oxides, together with an overview over suitable synthesis procedures. This will then serve as a basis for the discussion of the state of the art in the application of manganese oxides in catalysis and photocatalysis.
MAXNET Energy – Focusing Research in Chemical Energy Conversion on the Electrocatlytic Oxygen Evolution
Authors: Auer Alexander A. , Cap Sébastien , Antonietti Markus , Cherevko Serhiy , Deng Xiaohui , Papakonstantinou Georgios , Sundmacher Kai , Brüller Sebastian , Antonyshyn Iryna , Dimitratos Nikolaos , Davis Robert J. , Böhm Karl-Heinz , Fechler Nina , Freakley Simon , Grin Yuri , Gunnoe Brent T. , Haj-Hariri Hossein , Hutchings Graham , Liang Haiwei , Mayrhofer Karl J. J. , Müllen Klaus , Neese Frank , Ranjan Chinmoy , Sankar Meenakshisundaram , Schlögl Robert , Schüth Ferdi , Spanos Ioannis , Stratmann Martin , Tüysüz Harun , Vidakovic-Koch Tanja , Yi Youngmi , Zangari Giovanni
Published: January 2016

MAXNET Energy is an initiative of the Max Planck society in which eight Max Planck institutes and two external partner institutions form a research consortium aiming at a deeper understanding of the electrocatalytic conversion of small molecules. We give an overview of the activities within the MAXNET Energy research consortium. The main focus of research is the electrocatalytic water splitting reaction with an emphasis on the anodic oxygen evolution reaction (OER). Activities span a broad range from creation of novel catalysts by means of chemical or material synthesis, characterization and analysis applying innovative electrochemical techniques, atomistic simulations of state-of-the-art x-ray spectroscopy up to model-based systems analysis of coupled reaction and transport mechanisms. Synergy between the partners in the consortium is generated by two modes of cooperation – one in which instrumentation, techniques and expertise are shared, and one in which common standard materials and test protocols are used jointly for optimal comparability of results and to direct further development. We outline the special structure of the research consortium, give an overview of its members and their expertise and review recent scientific achievements in materials science as well as chemical and physical analysis and techniques. Due to the extreme conditions a catalyst has to endure in the OER, a central requirement for a good oxygen evolution catalyst is not only its activity, but even more so its high stability. Hence, besides detailed degradation studies, a central feature of MAXNET Energy is a standardized test setup/protocol for catalyst stability, which we propose in this contribution.
The role of silicon (Si) in increasing plant resistance against fungal diseases
Authors: Sakr N.
Published: January 2016

The use of silicon (Si) in agriculture has attracted a great deal of interest from researchers because of the numerous benefits of this element to plants. The use of silicon has decreased the intensity of several diseases in crops of great economic importance. In this study, the relationship between silicon nutrition and fungal disease development in plants was reviewed. The current review underlines the agricultural importance of silicon in crops, the potential for controlling fungal plant pathogens by silicon treatment, the different mechanisms of silicon-enhanced resistance, and the inhibitory effects of silicon on plant pathogenic fungi in vitro. By combining the data presented in this paper, a better comprehension of the relationship between silicon treatments, increasing plant resistance, and decreasing severity of fungal diseases could be achieved.
Swarming motility in plant-associated bacteria
Authors: Venieraki A. , Tsalgatidou P.Ch. , Georgakopoulos D.G. , Dimou M. , Katinakis P.
Published: January 2016

Plant-associated environments harbor a huge number of diverse bacteria that compete and/or cooperate for the occupation of the most nutrient-rich ecological niches. Motility, a common trait among bacteria, has long been assumed to provide a survival advantage to skilful bacteria in invading these environments. Bacterial surface motility, such as swarming, a flagella-driven type of surface movement, although mostly observed and studied on agar substrates, is emerging as a major trait involved in many functions of plant-associated bacteria in regard to their ability to colonize and spread on their host. In this review, we address some novel swarming motility strategies, which enable bacteria to colonize, disperse and compete in plant surfaces.
Effectiveness of salicylic acid, Pseudomonas fluorescens CHA0 and Trichoderma viride to control Meloidogyne incognita race 2 on different tomato cultivars
Authors: Esfahani L. , Jamali S. , Saeedizadeh A. , Pedramfar H.
Published: January 2016

The effects of salicylic acid (SA), Trichoderma viride and Pseudomonas fluorescens CHA0 were studied on the root-knot nematode Meloidogyne incognita race 2 in resistant and susceptible tomato cultivars (Gina VF, Falat CH, Falat 111, Karoon) during 2012-2013. Four-leaf tomato seedlings were used, grown in pots containing 1000 g of sterilized soil; each seedling receiving 20 ml of T. viride suspension containing 1×106 spores, 30 ml of P. fluorescens CHA0 with 109 cfu/ml, 5mM of salicylic acid and 2000 second stage nematode juveniles. Parameters relevant to nematode population and plant growth were evaluated. The biocontrol agents and salicylic acid were effective in nematode control in combined and single treatments. High reductions in root galling and egg mass indices were observed with combination of SA and biocontrol agents. The greatest increase in plant growth was obtained when cv. Falat CH was treated with SA followed by P. fluorescens CHA0 and T. viride. The highest number of galls was recorded in cv. Karoon, followed by cvs. Falat 111, Gina VF and Falat CH. Pseudomonas fluorescens CHA0 provoked the highest increase in fresh and dry root weight, fresh and dry shoot weight and plant length in all free nematode treatments. The results indicated that chemical inducer (salicylic acid), in combination with biocontrol agents (T. viride and P. fluorescens CHA0), stimulated and eventually increased plant growth.
First report of the nematodes Filenchus orientalis and Hemicriconemoides californianus on faba bean in Iran
Authors: Azimi S. , Mahdikhani-Moghadam E. , Rouhani H. , Rajabi Memari H.
Published: January 2016

During a survey in Iran, two known species of plant-parasitic nematodes of the families Tylenchidae and Criconematidae were reported for the first time. The morphological and morphometric characters of Iranian populations of the two recovered species are discussed and illustrated based on morphological and morphometrics data. Iranian population of Filenchus orientalis is characterized by having a 601-755μm body length, stylet length of 9.0-11.3 μm, lateral field with four incisures, tail length of 100-118 μm and males with 15-21 μm long spicules. Hemicriconemoides californianus population is characterized by having a body length of 430-550μm, lip region with two annuli, stylet length of 75-83μm and tail length of 20-28 μm. The morphological and morphometric characters of both species are in agreement with those in original descriptions.
MicroRNA regulation of airway smooth muscle function
Authors: Sun Maoyun , Lu Quan
Published: January 2016

Airway smooth muscle (ASM) controls airway narrowing and plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of asthma. MicroRNAs are small yet powerful gene tuners that regulate diverse cellular processes. Recent studies have demonstrated the versatile role of microRNAs in regulating multiple ASM phenotypes that are critically involved in asthma pathogenesis. These ASM phenotypes include proliferation, cell size, chemokine secretion, and contractility. Here we review microRNA-mediated regulation of ASM functions and discuss the potential of microRNAs as a novel class of therapeutic targets to improve ASM function for asthma therapy.
How much gambling is too much? Identifying potential problem gambling among adolescents
Authors: Räsänen Tiina A. , Lintonen Tomi P. , Raisamo Susanna U. , Konu Anne I.
Published: January 2016

Aims: Using a population-based sample of Finnish 12–17 year olds, this study explored gambling behaviour limits for potential problem gambling [South Oaks Gambling Screen – revised for adolescents (SOGS-RA)].

Methods: Data were obtained from the Youth Gambling Survey 2006, which is a cross-sectional survey of a nationally representative random sample of 5000 adolescents. Adolescents who participated in gambling at least once a month were selected from the data (n=1827, 25.1% were girls). The limits for gambling behaviour were detected using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. Logistic regression was used to study associations between these behavioural limits and potential problem gambling.

Results: For each of the gambling behaviour indicators plotted, the risk curves showed similar trends among boys and girls. The risk of being a potential problem gambler increased noticeably with increasing gambling intensity. The ROC analysis showed that the optimal behavioural cut-off values among 12–14 year olds for frequency was gambling more than 2–3 times a month, spending more than €2 per week on gambling, spending more than €8 in any 1 day on gambling, and gambling on more than two different games per year. For 15–17 year olds, cut-off values were gambling more than once a week, spending more than €4 per week and spending more than €12 in any 1 day on gambling. Cut-off for number of game types was same as it was for younger adolescents. Of the behavioural indicators those associated with money were the most robust.

Conclusion: Behavioural indicators can be used as initial markers of possible problem gambling.
An evaluation of Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) athletes’ self-reported practice of playing while concussed, knowledge about and attitudes towards sports-related concussion
Authors: Sullivan Lindsay , Thomas Audrey Alforque , Molcho Michal
Published: January 2016

Background/Aim: Sports-related concussions are now recognized as a major public health concern. However, despite the association of concussion with short- and long-term health consequences, many young athletes still lack basic knowledge about concussion and seem to believe that concussions may be “toughed out” and do not require medical attention. This study assessed self-reported practice of playing in training or a match while concussed among Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) athletes in Ireland aged 13–25 years old (M=19.19, SD=3.54). This study also assessed knowledge about and attitudes towards sports-related concussion in GAA players in Ireland.

Methods: Using a self-report questionnaire, data were captured electronically on GAA athletes aged 13–25 years old (n=80) regarding knowledge about the detection, assessment and management of sports-related concussion, as well as participant’s attitudes towards concussion and self-reported practice of playing in training or a match while concussed. Data were collected from June to August 2013.

Results: This study revealed that approximately one in four athletes reported having played while concussed in practice or during a match. Males were significantly more likely to play while concussed than females (40.9% and 17.2%, respectively). Results from this study indicated participants lack a complete understanding of concussion, as common misconceptions about concussion prevailed. Analyses revealed that participants generally have safe attitudes towards concussion and concussion management.

Conclusion: Generating awareness of the potential short- and long-term health consequences of concussion, coupled with the promotion of safer attitudes towards this injury, could minimize the number of players who return-to-play pre-maturely and promote a more safety-conscious sports culture in Ireland.
Adolescents’ sexual and reproductive health: an ecological perspective
Authors: Hajizade-Valokolaee Maryam , Yazdani-Khermandichali Fereshteh , Shahhosseini Zohreh , Hamzehgardeshi Zeinab
Published: January 2016

Background:

Adolescence is the key time in the formation of sexual confidence and fertility in people and many risky sexual behaviors in this sensitive era are the roots of many adulthood diseases. STD and early pregnancy are among the most important issues of adolescence.

Objective:

This study deals with reviewing ecological factors related to the sexual and reproductive health of adolescents.

Methods:

As this study was a narrative review the researchers conducted their computer search in public bases such as Google Scholar and then in more specialized ones such as MEDLINE, EMBASE, Science Direct, Up-to-date, SPRINGER, SID, Magi ran, Iranmedex and Irandoc with the key words adolescents, sexual health, reproductive health and ecological from 1991 to 2015. Initially 152 articles were elicited and after a review study of the title and abstract, 80 articles entered the study. After reading the full text, 39 articles were chosen for writing the current review article.

Results:

Reviewing the articles led to organizing the contents in three main classes according to Bronfenbrenner’s suggestion namely ecological factors at microsystem, mesosystem and macrosystem levels which include individual predisposing factors, environmental enabling factors and social reinforcing factors.

Conclusion:

Adolescents are at a high risk of STD and early pregnancy. Many factors are considered as effective at this critical era, based on which comprehensive intervention based on ecological factors is needed to step forward toward preventing adolescence risks.
One-Pot Isomerization of n-Alkanes by Super Acidic Solids: Sulfated Aluminum-Zirconium Binary Oxides
Authors: Dhar Abhishek , Dutta Abhishek , Castillo-Araiza Carlos O. , Suárez-Toriello V.A. , Ghosh Dhananjoy , Raychaudhuri Uttam
Published: January 2016

Super acidic nanostructured sulfated aluminum-zirconium binary oxides in mole ratios of Zr4+: Al3+ as 2:1 (SAZ-1), 1:1 (SAZ-2), 1:2(SAZ-3) and the reference catalyst super acidic sulfated zirconia (SZ) were synthesized by a precipitation method. Firstly, the catalytic performance of these four catalysts was evaluated during the isomerization of n-hexane to 2-methyl pentane and 3-methyl pentane, n-heptane and n-octane to their corresponding branched chain isomers at low temperature and pressure conditions (40°C and 1 atm). SAZ-1 performed the highest active and selective isomerization of n-hexane, n-heptane, and n-octane into their corresponding branched chain isomers. The catalytic activity of the reference catalyst SZ was the lowest among the four synthesized catalysts. TEM analysis applied to SAZ-1 and SZ indicated the presence of particle-bulks having average size of 20 nm; moreover, these materials presented an amorphous nature, having no particular surface morphology. XRD confirmed the amorphous structure of SAZ-1 and SZ as well as indicated their internal phase structure. FTIR generated ideas about different linkages and bond connectivities between atoms and groups in SAZ-1 and SZ. Ammonia-TPD of these two materials confirmed the higher super acidic nature of SAZ-1 and lower super acidic nature of SZ. Catalyst evaluation and characterization allowed to propose a reaction mechanism, elucidating a possible role of Brønsted and Lewis acid sites on the studied reaction-catalyst, being the former active sites the main factor leading to isomerization reaction. AFM and SEM pictures indicated the nature of the surface of the catalysts. Nevertheless, SEM analysis before and after the reaction displayed that catalyst morphology was modified and could influence the activity of the catalyst. The use of SAZ-1 is cost saving as well as energy saving.
Graphitic Carbon Nitride-Titanium Dioxide Nanocomposite for Photocatalytic Hydrogen Production under Visible Light
Authors: Gholipour Mohammad Reza , Béland Francois , Do Trong-On
Published: January 2016

Hydrogen production from water splitting via photocatalytic reactions can be an alternative clean energy of fossil fuels in the future. Graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) is one of the active photocatalysts in the visible light region that can be combined with other semiconductors in order to increase its photocatalytic efficiency. TiO2 is one of the most appropriate choices to combine with g-C3N4 because of its conduction band edge and variety forms of nanostructures. In this work, nanosheets of g-C3N4 were mixed with the nanoparticles of titanate in order to enhance charge separation and photocatalytic efficiency. Consequently, the hydrogen evolution of this novel nanocomposite produced almost double hydrogen in comparison with g-C3N4.
Technology to support positive occupational engagement and communication in persons with multiple disabilities
Authors: Lancioni Giulio E. , O’Reilly Mark F. , Singh Nirbhay N. , Sigafoos Jeff , Boccasini Adele , La Martire Maria L. , Perilli Viviana , Spagnuolo Carmen
Published: January 2016

Persons with multiple (intellectual and sensory-motor) disabilities can have serious difficulties managing their independent engagement in leisure activities and communication, particularly with partners not present in their immediate environment.

This study assessed two versions of a technology-aided program (involving a computer system to present leisure and communication options and a microswitch to choose among them) with four participants with multiple disabilities. Two participants used the first version of the program, which allowed them to choose among leisure (music) options. The other two participants used the second version of the program, which allowed them to choose among leisure (music and videos) and communication (telephone calls) options. Each program version was implemented according to a non-concurrent multiple baseline design across participants.

Data showed that both program versions were successful in helping the participants achieve the objectives pursued, that is, choose and access leisure or leisure and communication options independently.

Technology-aided programs can enable persons with multiple disabilities to manage positive occupational engagement and communication.
Characterizing Texture, Color and Sensory Attributes of Cookies Made with Jerusalem Artichoke (Helianthus tuberosus L.) Flour Using a Mixture Design and Browning Reaction Kinetics
Authors: Lee Youn Ju , Kim Dan-Bi , Lee Ok-Hwan , Yoon Won Byong
Published: January 2016

Effect of interactions between Jerusalem artichoke flour (JF), wheat flour (WF) and sugar (S) on the texture properties of cookies was investigated. JF was the most influential component on the dough and cookies, possibly due to inulin in JF. To develop an optimum formulation using mixture design, the constraint values for the quality indices were: hardness (12 N), adhesiveness (10 mJ), and cohesiveness (0.27) of dough, and maximum force of cookie (73 N). Optimum values of WF, JF and S in the mixture were found to be 151.89 g, 55.33 g and 87.78 g, respectively, with a desirability of 0.943. Two experimental cookie formulas, similar to the optimal formula, were tested for their sensory properties and resulted in highly acceptable scores. As baking time increased, the browning and antioxidant activity of all cookies increased; however, the browning and antioxidant activity of samples containing JF was significantly higher than the others.
The mammals of Mt. Amuyao: a richly endemic fauna in the Central Cordillera of northern Luzon Island, Philippines
Authors: Rickart Eric A. , Balete Danilo S. , Alviola Phillip A. , Veluz Maria J. , Heaney Lawrence R.
Published: January 2016

Faunas of old oceanic islands often have extremely high levels of endemism and are considered highly susceptible to anthropogenic disruption. We surveyed the richly endemic small mammal fauna on Mt. Amuyao in the Central Cordillera of northern Luzon Island, Philippines. We tested hypotheses regarding elevational patterns of species richness and community composition, community response to habitat disturbance, and interactions of native and non-native mammals. Our study revealed greater species richness and faunal heterogeneity within the Central Cordillera than previously suspected. We documented 15 native species (14 rodents and 1 insectivore), and two species of non-native rodents. All of the native species are endemic to the Philippines, eight being restricted to the Cordillera. Twelve of the 14 native rodents belong to two ancient endemic clades, indicating that most of the regional diversity is the product of