bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The ability of vegetated floating Islands to improve water quality in natural and constructed wetlands: a review
Authors: Masters Bernie
Published: May 2012

Constructed and natural wetlands are widely used to improve many water quality parameters. Vegetated floating islands (VFIs) placed on the surface of these wetlands significantly enhance the efficiency of natural processes that reduce nutrients, suspended solids, heavy metals and other pollutants.

Pollutant reduction in VFIs, particularly nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorous, occurs primarily through the actions of bacterial biofilms growing within the island matrix and on plant roots hanging below the islands. Direct uptake of nutrients by plants is minor, although plants are essential as they provide additional substrate for biofilm development while supplying oxygen and carbon for use by the bacteria.

Nitrogen-based nutrients are primarily removed from wetlands as nitrogen gas. Phosphorous is mostly deposited as organic-rich sediment which accumulates within or beneath the floating islands. This material can become anoxic and return its contained phosphorous to the water column, making it biologically available for algal or bacterial blooms that degrade water quality. Physical removal of this P-rich material is an essential wetland management action.

VFIs can remove phosphorous at up to 4.6 g/m2/day and ammonia at up to 8.1 g/m2/day with simultaneous denitrification of nitrate to nitrogen gas.

VFIs can significantly increase the efficiency of pollutant removal from natural and constructed wetlands.
Do One-to-One Initiatives Bridge the Way to 21st Century Knowledge and Skills?
Authors: Lowther Deborah L. , Inan Fethi A. , Strahl J. Daniel , Ross Steven M.
Published: May 2012

This article presents findings from an investigation of the overall effectiveness of Michigan's Freedom to Learn (FTL) One-to-One initiative. The major goal of the FTL initiative was to help students to gain 21st century knowledge and skills while increasing their learning and achievement through the integration of over 20,000 laptop computers with comprehensive teacher professional development. This study used a mixed-methods descriptive and quasi-experimental design. Data were collected with validated observation and survey instruments. The findings reveal greater use of research-based best practices in FTL classrooms and greater teacher confidence to integrate technology as compared to normative data. FTL students performed as well as control students yet demonstrated greater 21st century knowledge and skills.
Effects of Peer E-Feedback on Turkish EFL Students' Writing Performance
Authors: Ciftci Hatime , Kocoglu Zeynep
Published: May 2012

The present study investigated the effect of online peer feedback through blogs on Turkish EFL students' writing performance and their perceptions. Data were collected by using: a) Turkish EFL Students' Background Survey, b) interviews at the beginning and end of the term, c) first and revised drafts, and d) end-of-semester Questionnaire. The control group (15 students, classroom-based) attended in-class writing activities and utilized face-to-face oral discussions for peer feedback. The experimental group (15 students, blog-based) attended classes in the computer laboratory and integrated blog peer feedback into their process oriented writing classes. The results of mixed factorial analysis of variances (ANOVA) revealed that the students in both the control and experimental group improved their writing in their revised drafts. However, those in the experimental group showed higher performance in revised drafts. Finally, the analysis of interviews and end-of-semester questionnaires indicated positive perceptions on the use of blogs in their writing classes.
Factors Affecting the Use of an E-Learning Portal at University
Authors: Cegarra-Navarro Juan-Gabriel , Rodríguez Francisco Javier Cánovas
Published: May 2012

Electronic learning (e-learning) portals can be defined as websites that store and present materials for online learning, training, performance assessment, and certification. Few, if any, studies have investigated the factors that might contribute to the integration or implementation of e-learning portals in universities. With the development of this article, we intend to address the following questions: Does availability of ICT imply the use of e-learning portals? How is ICT being used by students? This article examines the relative importance and significance of three types of ICT (Internet, Groupware, and Collective systems) relating to the use of e-learning portal through an empirical investigation of 210 students in a Spanish university using a multinomial logistic regression. The results support that by effectively developing higher levels of Groupware systems, teachers empower students to make better, more informed decisions—and facilitate the utilization of e-learning portals.
Buckwheat and quinoa seeds as supplements in wheat bread production
Authors: Demin Mirjana , Vucelic-Radovic Biljana , Banjac Nebojsa , Nikolajevna-Tipsina Neli , Milovanovic Mirjana
Published: May 2012

The aim of this work was to compare the nutritional characteristics of wheat
bread with the bread produced of wheat flour supplemented with quinoa and
buckwheat seeds. Bread making properties of these blends were analyzed in
order to investigate their ability to make moulded bread. Quinoa (Chenopodium
quinoa Will.) and buckwheat seeds were grown in the vicinity of Belgrade,
Serbia. The addition of pseudocereal seeds (at levels of 30% and 40%) and a
selected technological process, which included hydrothermal preparation of
supplements, resulted with a valuable effect on nutritive value of breads. In
comparison with the wheat bread that was used as control sample, the protein
increase of 2% and the increase of crude fiber content at around 0.5% in 30%
supplemented breads were registered. Furthermore, the incorporation of both
seeds mixture at the level of 40%, increased the content of protein for 2.5%
and fiber content for 0.4%. In regard to the starch, fat, and ash contents
there were no major differences. The investigated breads were nutritionally
superior to the wheat bread. Chemical composition of the selected seeds was
also investigated. The results showed that the blends containing either 30%
or 40% of selected seeds expressed high potential for the production of
molded breads, as new baking products with enhanced nutritional composition.
The applied technological procedure was modified in such way that for all
blended combination of supplements it changed rheological properties of
dough. Furthermore, it resulted in a good volume of breads with excellent
sensory properties of aroma-odor and taste.
Use of Multimodal Imagery with Precompetitive Anxiety and Stress of Elite Tennis Players
Authors: Coelho Ricardo Weigert , Keller Birgit , Kuczynski Kátia Maria , Ribeiro Evaldojosé , Lima Malu Cristina de Araújo Montoro , Greboggy Denis , Stefanello Joice Mara Facco
Published: May 2012

The effect of multimodal imagery on anxiety and perceived stress was investigated in 46 male tennis players (16 to 18 yr.; M = 17.0, SD = 0.8). There were two groups, a multimodal imagery group and a control imagery group. The quasi-experimental design included pre- and post-treatment administrations of the 27-item Competitive State Anxiety Inventory to assess anxiety and the Perceived Stress Scale to assess stress. Analysis showed a statistically significant multivariate difference between the multimodal imagery and control groups on measures of cognitive anxiety, self-confidence, and perceived stress. Imagery plays a role in handling some specific types of anxiety and stress.
Morphological Patterns and Their Colour
Authors: Dadam James , Albertazzi Liliana , Pos Osvaldo Da , Canal Luisa , Micciolo Rocco
Published: May 2012

This study analyzed qualitative aspects in perception, particularly the relationship between morphological aspects of biological shapes and colour. The experiment reported by the study assessed the functional relation between shape and colour and, in particular, the relations among the patterns of shapes appearing in perceptual configurations, as well as certain characteristics of colour. Participants were shown 32 natural images and were asked to match them with a colour. The results indicated that some figures were more frequently associated (positively or negatively) with some colours instead of others. Type of shape, texture, and three-dimensionality were important elements in the participants' choices. Rounded figures and non-holed figures had positive matches with red; elongated figures were associated with colours between blue and green; and holed figures showed positive matches with colours between green and yellow. Type of shape and texture also exhibited a relationship with the warmth of the colour.
Are Hand-Grip and Knee Extension Strength Reflective of a Common Construct?
Authors: Bohannon Richard W.
Published: May 2012

Grip and knee extension strength have each been used to characterize muscle strength. Whether grip and knee extension strength reflect a common construct was investigated. Bilateral isometric grip and knee extension strength measures obtained by dynamometry were retrieved from the records of 34 adults who were at least 60 years of age ( M = 80.2 yr., SD = 8.1) and had diverse non-focal diagnoses or problems. Relations between measurements were examined using Pearson correlations, Cronbach's alpha, and factor analysis. Pearson correlations ( r = .55 to .89), Cronbach's alpha (.88), and factor analysis (loadings .85 to .91) all suggest that grip and knee extension strength reflect a common construct. Either grip or knee extension strength, therefore, may be adequate to characterize limb muscle strength in older adults who are receiving physical therapy for diverse non-focal diagnoses or problems. Nevertheless, the measurement of grip strength may be preferred because it is easier.
Liking and Response Latency in Teammate Identification: Processing Delays below Conscious Awareness?
Authors: Steel Kylie A. , Adams Roger D. , Canning Colleen G.
Published: May 2012

Success in fast-ball sports relies on many factors which interact at both movement and cognitive levels. Players must recognize their teammates and decide whether to pass the ball to create or take advantage of scoring affordances. Previous research has shown athletes can identify teammates from brief visual displays during fast-ball sports and this is related to the amount of time individuals train together. However, it is likely other factors also affect recognition and, consequently, decision making related to ball passing. The present study extended the Teammate Identification (TM–ID) paradigm to examine magnitude of liking of one's teammates in relation to response time components of TM–ID. An increase in movement time was found for identifying a swimmer who was the observer's “least liked” teammate, which suggests that processes below conscious awareness may influence the time taken for sport actions directed toward specific teammates, such as ball passing.
Toward Effective Forecast of Professionally Important Sensorimotor Cognitive Abilities of Young Soccer Players
Authors: Ljac V. , Witkowski Z. , Gutni B. , Samovarov A. , Nash D.
Published: May 2012

Development of skill in young soccer players relies on progressive improvement in different professionally important sensorimotor cognitive abilities. Development of seven leading abilities was based on the results of 23 tests provided for experimental and control groups. 600 elite young soccer players of both sexes, ages 11 to 19 years, were assessed over a period of 4 years. Experimental groups were given different exercises to aid development of selected abilities. At the end of the monitoring period, the experimental groups demonstrated a significant improvement in contrast to the control groups, and the greatest improvements in different test performances were observed in the 11- to 13-year-olds. The test-retest data show the testing process to be reliable. The study provides standard pedagogical models and data for trainers, coaches, and researchers working with young soccer players. Future research on talent identification and selection should adopt a multidimensional approach.
Contrast of Biochemical and Psychosocial Explanations of the Relationship of Exercise and Improved Mood
Authors: Annesi James J.
Published: May 2012

To evaluate possible predictors of exercise-related mood improvements, formerly sedentary, obese adults initiating an exercise and nutrition treatment ( N = 322) were assessed over 6 mo. Multiple regression analysis, with simultaneous entry of measures of exercise volume and exercise-related self-efficacy, was used to predict changes in overall mood. Findings suggested that change in exercise-related self-efficacy was a stronger independent predictor of change in mood than was volume of exercise. Sex and age did not contribute to the variance explained. Results supported psychosocial vs biochemical explanations of the relationship between exercise and mood improvement.
Priming of Disability and Elderly Stereotype in Motor Performance: Similar or Specific Effects?
Authors: Ginsberg Frederik , Rohmer Odile , Louvet Eva
Published: May 2012

In three experimental studies, the effects of priming participants with the disability stereotype were investigated with respect to their subsequent motor performance. Also explored were effects of activating two similar stereotypes, persons with a disability and elderly people. In Study 1, participants were primed with the disability stereotype versus with a neutral prime, and then asked to perform on a motor coordination task. In Studies 2 and 3, a third condition was introduced: priming participants with the elderly stereotype. Results indicated that priming participants with the disability stereotype altered their motor performance: they showed decreased manual dexterity and performed slower than the non-primed participants. Priming with the elderly stereotype decreased only performance speed. These findings underline that prime-to-behavior effects may depend on activation of specific stereotype content.
A Walk down the Block: Spatial and Temporal Parameters of Aesthetic Judgments about Ordinary Streetscapes
Authors: Stamps Arthur E.
Published: May 2012

An experiment is reported based on 12 streetscapes and 25 participants on how five spatial/temporal factors influenced aesthetic judgments about ordinary streets. Overall, aesthetic judgments were more strongly related to the temporal variables of total time, stationary time, and decision time rather than the spatial variables of path length or number of turns made to obtain different views. It is suggested that fancy simulations or detailed scrutiny are probably not needed to evaluate streetscapes as seen by people in the street.
Direct and Pairwise Area Estimation of Physical Shapes through Vision and Touch
Authors: Rait John G. , Daniels J. D.
Published: May 2012

On a perceptual task in which a participant estimated areas of five physical rigid shapes, participants could view and touch the shapes, using one of two estimation methods, direct or pairwise. For the direct method, participants held one shape at a time and estimated the area based on a unit square (equal to 1/10 of the actual area). Mean error by participants was 14.4%. In the pairwise method, when participants were simultaneously handed two shapes, their error was 0.3%. Both direct and pairwise errors for vision plus touch of physical stimuli were considerably lower than previous errors made when viewing with an overhead projector screen.
Panceriella emiratensis sp. nov. (Eucestoda, Linstowiidae) from desert monitor lizard, Varanus griseus (Daudin, 1803) in the United Arab Emirates
Authors: Schuster Rolf
Published: May 2012

Two hundred and twenty seven cestodes of the genus Panceriella were detected in the small intestine of a desert monitor lizard, Varanus griseus in the Dubai Emirate of the United Arab Emirates. Panceriella emiratensis sp. nov. is considerably shorter than the type species P. varanii and can be easily distinguished by the presence of an unsegmented neck, smaller numbers and smaller diameter of testes. Gravid segments contain a distinctly lower number of egg capsules.
Three new species of Digenea (Batrachotrematidae) in Nanorana minica (Anura, Dicroglossidae) from Uttarakhand, India
Authors: Rizvi Anjum , Bursey Charles , Bhutia Pasang
Published: May 2012

Three new species of batrachotrematid trematodes from the small paa frog, Nanorana minica, collected in Uttarakhand, India are described and illustrated: Batrachotrema korbaensis sp. nov., Opisthioparorchis dehradunensis sp. nov. and Opisthioparorchis nanoranae sp. nov. The new species are assigned to genera based on presence or absence of cuticular spines; absent in Batrachotrema, present in Opisthioparorchis. Five species are assigned to Batrachotrema, which are separated by position of genital pore, location of testes and host; B. korbaensis differs from previously described species in that it is the only species from an anuran host with testes in the 4th quarter of the body. Ten species are assigned to Opisthioparorchis, which are separated by testes position, extent of vitellaria, and oral sucker-acetabulum ratio. O. nanoranae sp. nov. is the only species possessing tandem testes. Two species, O. dehradunensis sp. nov. and O. yaanensis, possess oblique testes, the remaining 7 species have symmetrical testes. Opisthioparorchis dehradunensis sp. nov. is distinguished from O. nanoranae sp. nov. by testes orientation; oblique in O. dehradunensis sp. nov., tandem in O. nanoranae sp. nov.
Exploring the use of robots as social mediators in a remote human-human collaborative communication experiment
Authors: Papadopoulos Fotios , Dautenhahn Kerstin , Ho Wan Ching
Published: May 2012

Our long-term goal is to develop robots as social mediators that can support human-human communication in remote interaction scenarios. This paper explores the effects of an autonomous robot on human-human remote communication and studies participants’ preferences in comparison with a communication system not involving robots. We developed a platform for remote human-human communication in the context of a collaborative computer game. The exploratory study involved twenty pairs of participants who communicated using video conference software. Participants expressed more social cues when using the robot and sharing of their game experiences with each other. However, analyses of the interactions of the participants with each other and with the robot show that it is difficult for participants to familiarise themselves quickly with the robot while they can perform the same task more efficiently with conventional devices. These issues need to be carefully considered and addressed when designing human-human remote communication systems with robots as social mediators.
Evolution of central pattern generators for the control of a five-link bipedal walking mechanism
Authors: Baydin Atılım Güneş
Published: May 2012

Central pattern generators (CPGs), with a basis is neurophysiological studies, are a type of neural network for the generation of rhythmic motion. While CPGs are being increasingly used in robot control, most applications are hand-tuned for a specific task and it is acknowledged in the field that generic methods and design principles for creating individual networks for a given task are lacking. This study presents an approach where the connectivity and oscillatory parameters of a CPG network are determined by an evolutionary algorithm with fitness evaluations in a realistic simulation with accurate physics. We apply this technique to a five-link planar walking mechanism to demonstrate its feasibility and performance. In addition, to see whether results from simulation can be acceptably transferred to real robot hardware, the best evolved CPG network is also tested on a real mechanism. Our results also confirm that the biologically inspired CPG model is well suited for legged locomotion, since a diverse manifestation of networks have been observed to succeed in fitness simulations during evolution.
The ABLE Scale: The Development and Psychometric Properties of an Outcome Measure for the Spinal Cord Injury Population
Authors: Ardolino Elizabeth M. , Hutchinson Karen J. , Pinto Zipp Genevieve , Clark MaryAnn , Harkema Susan J.
Published: May 2012

Background

A paucity of information exists on the psychometric properties of several balance outcome measures. With the exception of the Modified Functional Reach Test, none of these balance outcome measures were developed specifically for the population with spinal cord injury (SCI). A new balance assessment tool for people with SCI, the Activity-based Balance Level Evaluation (ABLE scale), was developed and tested.

Objective

The purposes of this study were: (1) to develop a scale capturing the wide spectrum of functional ability following SCI and (2) to assess the initial psychometric properties of the scale using a Rasch analysis.

Design

A methodological research design was used to test the initial psychometric properties of the ABLE scale.

Methods

The Delphi technique was used to establish the original 28-item ABLE scale. People with SCI at each of 4 centers (n=104) were evaluated using the ABLE scale. A Rasch analysis was conducted to test for targeting, item difficulty, item bias, and unidimensionality. An analysis of variance was completed to test for discriminant validity.

Results

The Rasch analysis revealed a scale with minimal floor and ceiling effects and a wide range of item difficulty capturing the large scope of functional capacity after SCI. Multiple redundancies of item difficulty were observed.

Limitations

All raters were experienced physical therapists, which may have skewed the results. The sample size of 104 participants precluded a principal component analysis.

Conclusion

Development of an all-inclusive clinical instrument assessing balance in the SCI population was accomplished using the Delphi technique. Modifications of the ABLE scale based on the Rasch analysis yielded a 28-item scale with minimal floor or ceiling effects. Larger studies using the revised scale and factor analyses are necessary to establish unidimensionality and reduction of the total item number.
Innovative Mobility Strategies for the Patient With Intensive Care Unit–Acquired Weakness: A Case Report
Authors: Trees Darin W. , Smith James M. , Hockert Steven
Published: May 2012

Background and Purpose

Although the benefits of early mobilization in the intensive care unit (ICU) have been well documented in recent years, the decision-making process and customization of treatment strategies for patients with ICU-acquired weakness have not been well defined in the literature. This case report will describe a patient with ICU-acquired weakness in the long-term acute care hospital (LTACH) setting and mobilization strategies that include novel devices for therapeutic exercise and gait training.

Case Description

A 73-year-old, active woman underwent a routine cardioversion for atrial fibrillation but developed multiple complications, including sepsis and respiratory failure. The patient spent 3 weeks of limited activity in the ICU and was transferred to our LTACH for continued medical intervention and rehabilitation. A 4-phase graded mobilization program was initiated in the LTACH ICU. Within that program, the physical therapy interventions included partial weight-bearing antigravity strength training with a mobile leg press and gait training with a hydraulic-assist platform walker.

Outcome

Before interventions, the patient had severe weakness (Medical Research Council [MRC] sum score of 18/60) and displayed complete dependence for all functioning. She progressed to being able to ambulate 150 ft (1 ft=0.3048 m) using a rolling walker with accompanying strength increases to an MRC sum score of 52/60.

Discussion

This case report describes novel mobility strategies for managing a patient with ICU-acquired weakness. The application of a graded mobilization program using a mobile leg press and a hydraulic-assist platform walker was safe and feasible, and appeared to expedite the patient's recovery process while decreasing the amount of manual lifting for the therapists.
Gamma Knife surgery for patients with nonfunctioning pituitary macroadenomas: predictors of tumor control, neurological deficits, and hypopituitarism
Authors: Starke Robert M. , Williams Brian J. , Jane John A. , Sheehan Jason P.
Published: May 2012

Object

Nonfunctioning pituitary macroadenomas often recur after microsurgery and thereby require further treatment. Gamma Knife surgery (GKS) has been used to treat recurrent adenomas. In this study, the authors evaluated outcomes following GKS of nonfunctioning pituitary macroadenomas and assessed predictors of tumor control, neurological deficits, and delayed hypopituitarism.

Methods

Between June 1989 and March 2010, 140 consecutive patients with nonfunctioning pituitary macroadenomas were treated using GKS at the University of Virginia. The median patient age was 51 years (range 21–82 years), and 56% of patients were male. Mean tumor volume was 5.6 cm3 (range 0.6–35 cm3). Thirteen patients were treated with GKS as primary therapy, and 127 had undergone at least 1 open resection prior to GKS. Ninety-three patients had a history of hormone therapy prior to GKS. The mean maximal dose of GKS was 38.6 Gy (range 10–70 Gy), the mean marginal dose was 18 Gy (range 5–25 Gy), and the mean number of isocenters was 9.8 (range 1–26). Follow-up evaluations were performed in all 140 patients, ranging from 0.5 to 17 years (mean 5 years, median 4.2 years).

Results

Tumor volume remained stable or decreased in 113 (90%) of 125 patients with available follow-up imaging. Kaplan-Meier analysis demonstrated radiographic progression free survival at 2, 5, 8, and 10 years to be 98%, 97%, 91%, and 87%, respectively. In multivariate analysis, a tumor volume greater than 5 cm3 (hazard ratio = 5.0, 95% CI 1.5–17.2; p = 0.023) was the only factor predictive of tumor growth. The median time to tumor progression was 14.5 years. Delayed hypopituitarism occurred in 30.3% of patients. No factor was predictive of post-GKS hypopituitarism. A new or worsening cranial nerve deficit occurred in 16 (13.7%) of 117 patients. Visual decline was the most common neurological deficit (12.8%), and all patients experiencing visual decline had evidence of tumor progression. In multivariate analysis, a tumor volume greater than 5 cm3 (OR = 3.7, 95% CI 1.2–11.7; p = 0.025) and pre-GKS hypopituitarism (OR = 7.5, 95% CI 1.1–60.8; p = 0.05) were predictive of a new or worsened neurological deficit.

Conclusions

In patients with nonfunctioning pituitary macroadenomas, GKS confers a high rate of tumor control and a low rate of neurological deficits. The most common complication following GKS is delayed hypopituitarism, and this occurs in a minority of patients.
Computed tomographic evaluation of paediatric brain in a teaching hospital
Authors: Islam MN , Rasul CH , Sarder AH , Hossain SA
Published: May 2012

During the period of June 09 to June 11, a total 689 children under 15 year, underwent brain computed tomography in the department of Radiology & Imaging, KMCH. Trauma was the commonest chief complaint (38.6 %), followed by headache (27.3%), convulsion (11.5%), focal neurologic deficit (9.1%), fever (3.5%), developmental delay (2.9%), increasing head size (1.5%), and inability to straighten head (0.9%). Traumatic events (contusion, fracture, extra axial hematoma, intra axial hematoma) were commonest CT diagnoses (24.5%). The other diagnoses were generalized cortical atrophy (7.3%), infarction (4.9%), intracranial tumor (3.3 %), congenital lesions (3.3%), infective process (meningitis, abscess, empyema, encephalitis, tuberculoma, TORCH infection)-2.8%, hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy (2.6%), spontaneous intracranial hemorrhage (2.2%), white matter disease (0.6 %). Negative finding (45%) were also a frequent observation. Proper clinical assessment while advising pediatric brain computed tomography will reduce unnecessary CT scan and in some case initial imaging should be MRI.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bmjk.v44i1-2.10467 Bang Med J (Khulna) 2011: 44(1&2) 3-6
Magnitude of cancer patients in a teaching hospital
Authors: Sarker MK , Rahman SS
Published: May 2012

This was an observational study carried out among all cancer patients attended at radiotherapy department of Khulna medical college hospital between January 2010 and December 2010. The study aimed to develop a primary data source for further research and improvement of patient care. Data were collected by a questionnaire. Total study population was 321 and out of them 158 was male and 163 were female. Top five organs involved with malignancies of both sexes are breast (14.64%), non-Hodgkins Lymphoma (1 0.59%), lung (7.79%), mouth and oral cavity (7.48%), and stomach (7.48%). This hospital-based cancer registry should be maintained to improve the treatment facilities and follow-up system.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bmjk.v44i1-2.10471Bang Med J (Khulna) 2011: 44(1&2) 18-24
Dental management of COPD patient
Authors: Rahman SS , Faruque M , Khan MHA , Hossain SA
Published: May 2012

Chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases have increased in prevalence and the rate of death of this chronic inflammatory disease of the airways has also risen despite recent advances in medical treatments. The dental health care professionals must be prepared to treat more medically compromised individuals. Because dental professionals operate at the origin of the upper airway and many dental procedures are deemed stressful, patients with chronic respiratory diseases are at special risk. This article will review the patho-physiology and discuss the recognition and management of dental patients with these diseases and provide an understanding on how to avoid precipitating factors that could initiate an acute episode in the dental care setting. The most important factor in preventing COPD is helping patients stop smoking.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bmjk.v44i1-2.10472Bang Med J (Khulna) 2011: 44(1&2) 21-24
Breast Cancer Risk, Fungicide Exposure and CYP1A1*2A Gene-Environment Interactions in a Province-Wide Case Control Study in Prince Edward Island, Canada
Authors: Ashley-Martin Jillian , VanLeeuwen John , Cribb Alastair , Andreou Pantelis , Guernsey Judith Read
Published: May 2012

Scientific certainty regarding environmental toxin-related etiologies of breast cancer, particularly among women with genetic polymorphisms in estrogen metabolizing enzymes, is lacking. Fungicides have been recognized for their carcinogenic potential, yet there is a paucity of epidemiological studies examining the health risks of these agents. The association between agricultural fungicide exposure and breast cancer risk was examined in a secondary analysis of a province-wide breast cancer case-control study in Prince Edward Island (PEI) Canada. Specific objectives were: (1) to derive and examine the level of association between estimated fungicide exposures, and breast cancer risk among women in PEI; and (2) to assess the potential for gene-environment interactions between fungicide exposure and a CYP1A1 polymorphism in cases versus controls. After 1:3 matching of 207 cases to 621 controls by age, family history of breast cancer and menopausal status, fungicide exposure was not significantly associated with an increased risk of breast cancer (OR = 0.74; 95% CI: 0.46–1.17). Moreover, no statistically significant interactions between fungicide exposure and CYP1A1*2A were observed. Gene-environment interactions were identified. Though interpretations of findings are challenged by uncertainty of exposure assignment and small sample sizes, this study does provide grounds for further research.
Seasonal and Diurnal Variations of Atmospheric Non-Methane Hydrocarbons in Guangzhou, China
Authors: Li Longfeng , Wang Xinming
Published: May 2012

In recent decades, high ambient ozone concentrations have become one of the major regional air quality issues in the Pearl River Delta (PRD) region. Non-methane hydrocarbons (NMHCs), as key precursors of ozone, were found to be the limiting factor in photochemical ozone formation for large areas in the PRD. For source apportioning of NMHCs as well as ozone pollution control strategies, it is necessary to obtain typical seasonal and diurnal patterns of NMHCs with a large pool of field data. To date, few studies have focused on seasonal and diurnal variations of NMHCs in urban areas of Guangzhou. This study explored the seasonal variations of most hydrocarbons concentrations with autumn maximum and spring minimum in Guangzhou. The diurnal variations of most anthropogenic NMHCs typically showed two-peak pattern with one at 8:00 in the morning and another at 20:00 in the evening, both corresponding to traffic rush hours in Guangzhou, whereas isoprene displayed a different bimodal diurnal curve. Propene, ethene, m, p-xylene and toluene were the four largest contributors to ozone formation in Guangzhou, based on the evaluation of individual NMHCs’ photochemical reactivity. Therefore, an effective strategy for controlling ozone pollution may be achieved by the reduction of vehicle emissions in Guangzhou.
Development of Nine Markers and Characterization of the Microsatellite Loci in the Endangered Gymnogobius isaza (Gobiidae)
Authors: Araki Kiwako S. , Nakazawa Takefumi , Kawakita Atsushi , Kudoh Hiroshi , Okuda Noboru
Published: May 2012

Gymnogobius isaza is a freshwater goby endemic to Lake Biwa, Japan. They experienced a drastic demographic bottleneck in the 1950s and 1980s and slightly recovered thereafter, but the population size is still very small. To reveal dynamics of genetic diversity of G. isaza, we developed nine microsatellite markers based on the sequence data of a related goby Chaenogobius annularis. Nine SSR (Simple Sequence Repeats) markers were successfully amplified for raw and formalin-fixed fish samples. The number of alleles and expected heterozygosities ranged from one to 10 and from 0.06 to 0.84, respectively, for the current samples, while one to 12 and 0.09 to 0.83 for historical samples. The markers described here will be useful for investigating the genetic diversity and gene flow and for conservation of G. isaza.
Immune Responses in Pigs Induced by Recombinant DNA Vaccine Co-Expressing Swine IL-18 and Membrane Protein of Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus
Authors: Zhang Xiaodong , Wang Xiaoli , Mu Lianzhi , Ding Zhuang
Published: May 2012

In this study, two DNA vaccines, which express the membrane (M) protein of porcine respiratory and reproductive syndrome virus (PRRSV) (pEGFP-M) and co-express both M and swine IL-18 (pEGFP-IL18-M), were constructed and their abilities to induce humoral and cellular responses in piglets were comparatively evaluated. Experimental results showed that both recombinant DNA vaccines could not elicit neutralizing antibodies in the immunized piglets. However, both DNA vaccines elicited Th1-biased cellular immune responses. Notably, pigs immunized with the plasmid pEGFP-IL18-M developed significantly higher levels of IFN-γ and IL-2 production response and stronger specific T-lymphocyte proliferation response than the pigs inoculated with the plasmids pEGFP-M and pEGFP-IL18 (P < 0.05). These results illustrated that co-expression of M and IL-18 proteins could significantly improve the potency of DNA vaccination on the activation of vaccine-induced virus-specific cell-mediated immune responses in pigs, which may be used as a strategy to develop a new generation of vaccines against highly pathogenic PRRSV.
Characterization of Porous TiO2 Surfaces Formed on 316L Stainless Steel by Plasma Electrolytic Oxidation for Stent Applications
Authors: Huan Zhiguang , Fratila-Apachitei Lidy E. , Apachitei Iulian , Duszczyk Jurek
Published: May 2012

In this study, a porous oxide layer was formed on the surface of 316L stainless steel (SS) by combining Ti magnetron sputtering and plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) with the aim to produce a polymer-free drug carrier for drug eluting stent (DES) applications. The oxidation was performed galvanostatically in Na3PO4 electrolyte. The surface porosity, average pore size and roughness varied with PEO treatment duration, and under optimum conditions, the surface showed a porosity of 7.43%, an average pore size of 0.44 µm and a roughness (Ra) of 0.34 µm. The EDS analyses revealed that the porous layer consisted of Ti, O and P. The cross-sectional morphology evidenced a double-layer structure, with a porous titania surface and an un-oxidized dense Ti film towards the interface with 316L SS. After the PEO treatment, wettability and surface free energy increased significantly. The results of the present study confirm the feasibility of forming a porous TiO2 layer on stainless steel by combining sputtering technology and PEO. Further, the resultant porous oxide layer has the potential to be used as a drug carrier for DES, thus avoiding the complications associated with the polymer based carriers.
Investigating the Defect Structures in Transparent Conducting Oxides Using X-ray and Neutron Scattering Techniques
Authors: González Gabriela B.
Published: May 2012

Transparent conducting oxide (TCO) materials are implemented into a wide variety of commercial devices because they possess a unique combination of high optical transparency and high electrical conductivity. Created during the processing of the TCOs, defects within the atomic-scale structure are responsible for their desirable optical and electrical properties. Therefore, studying the defect structure is essential to a better understanding of the behavior of transparent conductors. X-ray and neutron scattering techniques are powerful tools to investigate the atomic lattice structural defects in these materials. This review paper presents some of the current developments in the study of structural defects in n-type TCOs using x-ray diffraction (XRD), neutron diffraction, extended x-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS), pair distribution functions (PDFs), and x-ray fluorescence (XRF).
Oxygen Selective Membranes for Li-Air (O2) Batteries
Authors: Crowther Owen , Salomon Mark
Published: May 2012

Lithium-air (Li-air) batteries have a much higher theoretical energy density than conventional lithium batteries and other metal air batteries, so they are being developed for applications that require long life. Water vapor from air must be prevented from corroding the lithium (Li) metal negative electrode during discharge under ambient conditions, i.e., in humid air. One method of protecting the Li metal from corrosion is to use an oxygen selective membrane (OSM) that allows oxygen into the cell while stopping or slowing the ingress of water vapor. The desired properties and some potential materials for OSMs for Li-air batteries are discussed and the literature is reviewed.
Stability of Carotenoid Diets During Feed Processing and Under Different Storage Conditions
Authors: Jintasataporn Orapint , Yuangsoi Bundit
Published: May 2012

The stability of formulated carotenoid diets during feed processing and under different storage conditions were studied. All carotenoid diets were split into two groups with one group containing BHT (acting as an antioxidant) at 250 ppm and the other without BHT. The experiment was divided into two parts. First, all diets were evaluated in total carotenoid (TC) loss during feed processing, in dry mixed feeds after being processed and dried. In the final part, the completed dietary carotenoids were stored in an aluminum foil bag, the top of which was sealed with a bag sealer and kept under different storage conditions at 26–28 °C and 4 °C. The stability of the TC was observed during an 8-week trial period. The results showed that the diet pelleting process did not affect the carotenoid content of the diets, and the best storage temperature for the formulated carotenoid diet was at 4 °C. However, an antioxidant was added to assist in energy saving before feed processing. Thus, the addition of BHT at 250 ppm can be done at normal room temperature in order to reduce oxidation that might cause a loss of TC quantities in diets.
Optimization of a Microwave-Coupled Enzymatic Digestion Process to Prepare Peanut Peptides
Authors: Zhang Huicui , Yu Lina , Yang Qingli , Sun Jie , Bi Jie , Liu Shaofang , Zhang Chushu , Tang Lin
Published: May 2012

The best enzyme to prepare peanut peptides, papain, coupled with microwave irradiation was selected from five common proteases according to the results of the yield of peanut peptides [nitrogen solution index (NSI) in trichloroacetic acid (TCA), TCA-NSI] and the degree of hydrolysis (DH). The main factors that influenced the microwave-coupled enzymatic digestion method were optimized by response surface analysis. The optimal conditions obtained were as follows: microwave extraction time, 9.5 min; power, 600 W; substrate concentration, 4%; enzymatic reaction temperature, 50 °C; enzyme quantity, 6,500 U/g; pH, 7.1 (phosphate buffer, 0.05 mol/L). Under these conditions, TCA-NSI was 62.00% and DH was 25.89%, which is higher than that obtained with either protease hydrolysis or microwave hydrolysis alone.
Development of a Method for the Preparation of Ruthenium Indenylidene-Ether Olefin Metathesis Catalysts
Authors: Jimenez Leonel R. , Tolentino Daniel R. , Gallon Benjamin J. , Schrodi Yann
Published: May 2012

The reactions between several derivatives of 1-(3,5-dimethoxyphenyl)-prop-2-yn-1-ol and different ruthenium starting materials [i.e., RuCl2(PPh3)3 and RuCl2(p-cymene)(L), where L is tricyclohexylphosphine di-t-butylmethylphosphine, dicyclohexylphenylphosphine, triisobutylphosphine, triisopropylphosphine, or tri-n-propylphosphine] are described. Several of these reactions allow for the easy, in-situ and atom-economic preparation of olefin metathesis catalysts. Organic precursor 1-(3,5-dimethoxyphenyl)-1-phenyl-prop-2-yn-1-ol led to the formation of active ruthenium indenylidene-ether complexes, while 1-(3,5-dimethoxyphenyl)-prop-2-yn-1-ol and 1-(3,5-dimethoxyphenyl)-1-methyl-prop-2-yn-1-ol did not. It was also found that a bulky and strong σ-donor phosphine ligand was required to impart good catalytic activity to the new ruthenium complexes.
Forest Cover Changes in Tropical South and Central America from 1990 to 2005 and Related Carbon Emissions and Removals
Authors: Eva Hugh D. , Achard Frédéric , Beuchle René , De Miranda Evaristo , Carboni Silvia , Seliger Roman , Vollmar Michael , Holler Wilson A. , Oshiro Osvaldo T. , Barrena Arroyo Victor , Gallego Javier
Published: May 2012

This paper outlines the methods and results for monitoring forest change and resulting carbon emissions for the 1990–2000 and 200–2005 periods carried out over tropical Central and South America. To produce our forest change estimates we used a systematic sample of medium resolution satellite data processed to forest change maps covering 1230 sites of 20 km by 20 km, each located at the degree confluence. Biomass data were spatially associated to each individual sample site so that annual carbon emissions could be estimated. For our study area we estimate that forest cover in the study area had fallen from 763 Mha (s.e. 10 Mha) in 1990 to 715 Mha (s.e. 10 Mha) in 2005. During the same period other wooded land (i.e., non-forest woody vegetation) had fallen from 191 Mha (s.e. 5.5 Mha) to 184 Mha (s.e. 5.5 Mha). This equates to an annual gross loss of 3.74 Mha∙y−1 of forests (0.50% annually) between 1990 and 2000, rising to 4.40 Mha∙y−1 in the early 2000s (0.61% annually), with Brazil accounting for 69% of the total losses. The annual carbon emissions from the combined loss of forests and other wooded land were calculated to be 482 MtC∙y−1 (s.e. 29 MtC∙y−1) for the 1990s, and 583 MtC∙y−1 (s.e. 48 MtC∙y−1) for the 2000 to 2005 period. Our maximum estimate of sinks from forest regrowth in tropical South America is 92 MtC∙y−1. These estimates of gross emissions correspond well with the national estimates reported by Brazil, however, they are less than half of those reported in a recent study based on the FAO country statistics, highlighting the need for continued research in this area.
Wireless Biosensor System for Real-Time L-Lactic Acid Monitoring in Fish
Authors: Hibi Kyoko , Hatanaka Kengo , Takase Mai , Ren Huifeng , Endo Hideaki
Published: May 2012

We have developed a wireless biosensor system to continuously monitor L-lactic acid concentrations in fish. The blood L-lactic acid level of fish is a barometer of stress. The biosensor comprised Pt-Ir wire (φ0.178 mm) as the working electrode and Ag/AgCl paste as the reference electrode. Lactate oxidase was immobilized on the working electrode using glutaraldehyde. The sensor calibration was linear and good correlated with L-lactic acid levels (R = 0.9959) in the range of 0.04 to 6.0 mg·dL−1. We used the eyeball interstitial sclera fluid (EISF) as the site of sensor implantation. The blood L-lactic acid levels correlated closely with the EISF L-lactic acid levels in the range of 3 to 13 mg·dL−1 (R = 0.8173, n = 26). Wireless monitoring of L-lactic acid was performed using the sensor system in free-swimming fish in an aquarium. The sensor response was stable for over 60 h. Thus, our biosensor provided a rapid and convenient method for real-time monitoring of L-lactic acid levels in fish.
Sharing Human-Generated Observations by Integrating HMI and the Semantic Sensor Web
Authors: Sigüenza Álvaro , Díaz-Pardo David , Bernat Jesús , Vancea Vasile , Blanco José Luis , Conejero David , Hernández Gómez Luis
Published: May 2012

Current “Internet of Things” concepts point to a future where connected objects gather meaningful information about their environment and share it with other objects and people. In particular, objects embedding Human Machine Interaction (HMI), such as mobile devices and, increasingly, connected vehicles, home appliances, urban interactive infrastructures, etc., may not only be conceived as sources of sensor information, but, through interaction with their users, they can also produce highly valuable context-aware human-generated observations. We believe that the great promise offered by combining and sharing all of the different sources of information available can be realized through the integration of HMI and Semantic Sensor Web technologies. This paper presents a technological framework that harmonizes two of the most influential HMI and Sensor Web initiatives: the W3C’s Multimodal Architecture and Interfaces (MMI) and the Open Geospatial Consortium (OGC) Sensor Web Enablement (SWE) with its semantic extension, respectively. Although the proposed framework is general enough to be applied in a variety of connected objects integrating HMI, a particular development is presented for a connected car scenario where drivers’ observations about the traffic or their environment are shared across the Semantic Sensor Web. For implementation and evaluation purposes an on-board OSGi (Open Services Gateway Initiative) architecture was built, integrating several available HMI, Sensor Web and Semantic Web technologies. A technical performance test and a conceptual validation of the scenario with potential users are reported, with results suggesting the approach is sound.