bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Good Agricultural Practice in the United States: Conservation and Climate
Authors: Grossman Margaret Rosso
Published: February 2012

Agriculture depends on the environment for production of food and fibre, yet agricultural activities may emit harmful pollutants. US law and policy encourage sustainable agriculture. Good agricultural practices, especially those that protect the environment and foster conservation, play a significant role in sustainability. US law imposes relatively few environmental requirements on producers, but offers numerous financial and other incentives for good agricultural practices. Policy discussions about the environmental effects of agricultural production often address two significant issues: the balance between mandatory and voluntary measures to protect the environment and the potential role of agriculture in mitigating climate change and sequestering carbon.
Assessing Risk of Patriarchal Violence with Honour as a Motive: Six Years Experience Using the PATRIARCH Checklist
Authors: Belfrage Henrik , Strand Susanne , Ekman Linda , Hasselborg Anna-Karin
Published: February 2012

Few crimes are as complicated to investigate and understand as honour-based crimes. The planning and execution often involves multiple family members, usually without personality disorders or major mental disorders, and can include mothers, sisters, brothers, male cousins, uncles and grandfathers whose actions are by many, themselves included, considered as good or necessary. Investigations often have to be carried out transnational, involving many authorities and sometimes several countries. This paper describes the process of developing an evidence-based checklist which has been used for six years in Sweden as an aid for law enforcement and social authorities in cases with suspected risk for honour-based violence. Data from 56 recent cases are presented and discussed.
Open Justice or Open Season?: Should the Media Report the Names of Suspects and Defendants?
Authors: Bohlander Michael
Published: February 2012

The daily news in England and Wales is full of reports about people who have been arrested, arraigned before a court, convicted and sometimes also acquitted, of some heinous crime or other. Most disturbingly, the suspects are named in full with their address and more often than not their photo will also be printed or broadcast. Their private lives and professional reputation are highly likely to be seriously affected the minute the news is made public, regardless of a later acquittal, which may not come until the Supreme Court decides years after the event. This article queries what open justice can be taken to mean in today's media society, whether the media are in it for the sake of enhancing justice or the sake of enhancing sales. The situation in the UK will be set out using the example of the decision of the UK Supreme Court in the Guardian News case and compared with the German press code of conduct.
Barebacking and the ‘Cult of Violence’: Queering the Criminal Law
Authors: Ashford Chris
Published: February 2012

This article seeks to revisit the law in relation to the sexual phenomenon of barebacking. Drawing upon queer theory, the article seeks to evaluate critically the development of the criminal law in relation to the practice of ‘unsafe’ sex by men with other men, known as barebacking, along with the broader casting of the judiciary as sexual custos mores. It will argue that the present heteronormative legal and cultural framework largely reflects a focus upon the ‘good gay’, de-sexed and constructed within a rights discourse, in contrast to Stychin's ‘bad queer’, sexual and defiant of a narrow heteronormative rights agenda, and embracing ‘unsafe’ and ‘deviant’ sexual practices.

This article seeks to move the analysis of the criminal law on from the doctrinal debates that have dominated thus far, and onto a more theoretical exposition of the criminal law regarding barebacking as erotic play.
Away from the Numbers: Opinion in the Court of Appeal
Authors: Wilson Adam
Published: February 2012

The Court of Appeal has recently addressed opinion evidence in numerous cases. Recurring themes have been addressed consistently with the exception of R v T (2010). It is suggested that the rationale in T is not as persuasive as that adopted in other cases. This article advocates that, where appropriate, a Bayesian approach should be adopted. In favouring a Bayesian approach it is suggested that ambiguous phrases such as ‘scientific method’ may not serve courts effectively and judges have been correct, in the majority of cases, to approach opinion evidence in a pragmatic, case-specific fashion. The Court of Appeal warrants credit for emphasising the importance of pre-trial hearings and robust case management.
British Road Deaths Have Dropped below 3,000 per Year, but Has Road Safety Really Improved?
Authors: Reinhardt-Rutland Anthony H.
Published: February 2012

Road deaths have halved since the 1960s, an outcome that suggests an improving safety culture: road-users collectively and individually focusing on safety. However, the reduction may be attributed to reduced walking and cycling, increased traffic density and improved NHS trauma care. Although more contentious, safety engineering should also be considered. Finally, fuel shortage has in the past reduced deaths and may do so in the future. Compared with rail and terrorism, the safety culture pertaining to road use is weak.
A Critique of the Deficiencies in the Regulation of Contemporary Police Powers of Detention and Questioning in England and Wales
Authors: Mylonaki Emmanouela , Burton Tim
Published: February 2012

The article explores the problems associated with the regulation of police powers of detention and questioning as prescribed by the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 (PACE). The police powers of detention and questioning are analysed holistically with reference to the role of the custody officer as gatekeeper, the detention reviews, the treatment and rights of detainees, and the investigative interviewing process. Whilst the fundamental purpose of police powers of detention and questioning is to investigate crime, it is argued that the deficiency in their regulation is a conceptual failure to realise that the process of police investigation militates against objective regulation. The authors argue that PACE is too reliant on self-regulation of police observation and supervision of the rules and a redefinition of the regulation of investigative powers is missing.
Blacklists and Black Sheep
Authors: Soothill Keith
Published: February 2012

Policing the activities that are borderline between being criminal and non-criminal are complex. Other enforcement agencies, such as the Information Commissioner's Office and the Office of Fair Trading, often become involved. The recent revelation of a secret blacklist of 3,200 construction workers detailing their trade union activities and past employment conduct is an example. This article considers the reactions to such practices. It asks why firms should decide to have recourse to a blacklist and whether it is symptomatic of a wider malaise in terms of a lack of communication. The article suggests that whistle-blowers are the best protection for both workers and the public when statutory inspection and enforcement fails.
Knowledge Management in Policing: The Case of Police Complaints and Police Crime
Authors: Gottschalk Petter , Dean Geoff
Published: February 2012

This article is concerned with knowledge management in policing police crime. Police crime is defined as crime committed by police officers on duty. There seems to be a tendency to consider police crime as a result of bad practice rather than the acts of criminals. However, examples illustrate that criminal acts are intentionally carried out by police officers on duty. The article looks at the kinds of knowledge which agencies require to investigate police complaints and police crime successfully.
Commentary
Authors: Gilling Daniel
Published: February 2012

We now know more about the direction in which the new Coalition Government intends to take police reform. Its consultative document Policing in the 21st Century: Reconnecting Police and the People was published in mid July, consultation ended in September and legislation, the forthcoming (at the time of writing) Police Reform and Social Responsibility Bill, is imminent. The consultative document claims this as ‘the most radical change in policing in 50 years’. The claim has some legitimacy in the light of the Coalition's proposals for changes in the structure and governance of policing.
The Policing of Pleasure: ‘What Kind of Police Service Do We Want?’
Authors: Sanders Teela , Soothill Keith
Published: February 2012

In times when the police service is faced with multiple tasks, this article takes a critical look at the role of the police in regulating pleasure. Applying the specific examples of gambling and prostitution, the article explores how the policing of pleasure has changed across the nineteenth, twentieth and twenty-first centuries. We investigate the consequences of these changes in regulation as behaviours are controlled through different systems of prohibition, regulation and normalisation. We note the reduction of the role of the police in controlling pleasure as other agencies of control take primary responsibility to regulate behaviour against a background of a greater emphasis on self-control and self-regulation. A theme running throughout the article is the shifting emphasis in the policing of pleasure in the public sphere, whilst the private sphere has often been left ‘un-policed’.
‘A Nod and a Wink’: Do ‘Gaming Practices' Provide an Insight into the Organisational Nature of Police Corruption?
Authors: Patrick Rodger
Published: February 2012

Whether police corruption is an individual or an organisational phenomenon has been a feature of recent criminological debates. The definition of police corruption has also changed and more modern definitions, based on the motivation behind the behaviour, include perverse practices designed to give a false impression of improved performance. Such practices are referred to as ‘gaming’, and examples involving law enforcement agencies are regularly cited in the academic literature on this subject. In this article statistical patterns in police performance data are linked to particular forms of ‘gaming’ behaviour. It is argued that the scale and seismic nature of fluctuations linked to particular events, sometimes involving scandals or other exposures, indicate that the behaviour is organisational and linked to objectives being pursued by senior officers.

The contributions of Her Majesty's Government Statistical Office and Home Office Research Development and Statistics department are acknowledged in the provision of the statistics on which this article is based.
Missed Conceptions or Misconceptions: Perceived Infertility Among Unmarried Young Adults In the United States
Authors: Polis Chelsea Bernhardt , Zabin Laurie Schwab
Published: February 2012

CONTEXT:

Perceived infertility is an individual’s belief that she or he is unable to conceive or impregnate, regardless of whether this belief is medically accurate. This perception may lead to contraceptive nonuse, which may, in turn, lead to unintended pregnancy. Little research has examined perceived infertility among young adults, including potential associations with contraceptive behaviors.

METHODS:

The frequency of perceived infertility among young adults was assessed using 2009 data from a nationally representative telephone survey of 1,800 unmarried men and women aged 18–29. Multinomial regression analyses assessed associations between respondents’ perceived infertility and selected background, reproductive knowledge, sexual experience and contraceptive use characteristics.

RESULTS:

Overall, 19% of women and 13% of men believed that they were very likely to be infertile. Hispanic women and women who had received public assistance in the past year had elevated odds of perceived infertility (odds ratios, 3.4 and 3.0, respectively), as did Hispanic men and men of other racial or ethnic minorities, except blacks (2.5 and 6.1, respectively). Men who had some college education, had received sex education or were not in a current relationship had decreased odds of thinking they were very likely to be infertile (0.3–0.4). Among men, perceived infertility was associated with the belief that they were likely to have sex without using a contraceptive in the next three months (2.6).

CONCLUSIONS:

A substantial proportion of young adults believe they are infertile. Improved provider counseling and sex education may be useful in helping them to better understand their actual probability of infertility, and this knowledge may lead to improved contraceptive use.
Ladeinfrastrukturen für die Netzintegration von Elektrofahrzeugen
Authors: Rolink Johannes , Horenkamp Willi , Rehtanz Christian
Published: February 2012

Zukünftig werden neben Dezentralen Energieumwandlungsanlagen (DEA) vermehrt auch Elektrofahrzeuge an das Niederspannungsnetz angeschlossen. In Zusammenhang mit der Netzintegration wird auch die Bereitstellung von Systemdienstleistungen diskutiert. Damit verbunden ist die Forderung, dass beim Laden der Fahrzeuge als auch bei einer Rückspeisung elektrischer Energie die Versorgungsqualität, Versorgungszuverlässigkeit und Sicherheit des Netzes nicht beeinträchtigt wird. Ein intelligentes Lademanagement ist vor dem Hintergrund eines Smart Grid unabdingbar.
Automatisierte Servicedisposition zur Flotteninstandhaltung am Beispiel car2go
Authors: Göppel Mathias , Blumenstock Axel
Published: February 2012

Das Streben nach individueller Mobilität hat in den letzten Jahrzehnten begonnen, sich von dem gesellschaftlichen Statussymbol Automobil zu lösen. Diese Entwicklung machte es möglich, über neue Carsharing-Konzepte nachzudenken. One-way Carsharing ohne feste Leih- und Rückgabeorte stellt auch die Instandhaltung der Fahrzeugflotte vor vollkommen neue Herausforderungen. Dieser Beitrag beschreibt den Entwurf und Umsetzung eines Planungssystems zur Flotteninstandhaltung für Mietfahrzeuge. Die Plangenerierung muss effizient implementiert sein, um mit der hochdynamischen Datenbasis — häufig wechelnde Fahrzeugorte und Betriebszustände — Schritt zu halten.
Eco-Efficient Logistics
Authors: Hesse Kathrin , Clausen Uwe
Published: February 2012

Reducing the emissions of greenhouse gases (GHG) like CO2 is one of the predominant concerns for ensuring sustainable future living conditions on Earth. However, current trends in globalization of production processes, just-in-time manufacturing, and increased numbers of parcel shipments due to a growing trend towards online shopping threaten to further increase GHG emissions. An analysis of GHG emissions is complex to perform since it has to include data from multiple sources and processes. The standard way to obtain an overview of the general emission impact is to perform a life cycle assessment (LCA), which is detailed in the first part of this paper. The same trend leads to an increasingly important contribution of logistics processes in the life cycle analysis of GHG emissions. Thus, the reduction of emissions in logistics is a major challenge for logistics research. Reductions are possible using a combination of IT-based and conventional methods on macroscopic as well as microscopic optimizations. However, the resulting economical impact must be considered when applying these optimizations. This article gives an overview of possible optimization approaches, augmented by a description of case studies, based on previous research projects.
Energy efficiency in logistics - SmartKanban as an intelligent intra-logistics architecture for Kanban scenarios
Authors: Bamberg Bernd , Johann Arnold , Waldow Peter
Published: February 2012

Information technology offers a high potential in achieving the climate protection goals by encouraging the reduction of energy consumption associated with a decrease of greenhouse gas emissions. This article shows how processes in logistics can be optimized by means of information technology. Using the example of SmartKanban, the additional energy consumption caused by information technology is compared to achievable potential energy savings.
Free energies and mechanisms of water exchange around Uranyl from first principles molecular dynamics
Authors: Atta-Fynn Raymond , Bylaska Eric J. , de Jong Wibe A.
Published: February 2012

From density functional theory (DFT) based ab initio (Car-Parrinello) metadynamics, we compute the activation energies and mechanisms of water exchange between the first and second hydration shells of aqueous Uranyl (UO22+) using the primary hydration number of U as the reaction coordinate. The free energy and activation barrier of the water dissociation reaction [UO2(OH2)5]2+(aq) → [UO2(OH2)4]2+(aq) + H2O are 0.7 kcal and 4.7 kcal/mol respectively. The free energy is in good agreement with previous theoretical (-2.7 to +1.2 kcal/mol) and experimental (0.5 to 2.2 kcal/mol) data. The associative reaction [UO2(OH2)5]2+(aq) + H2O → [UO2(OH2)6]2+(aq) is short-lived with a free energy and activation barrier of +7.9 kcal/mol and +8.9 kca/mol respectively; it is therefore classified as associative-interchange. On the basis of the free energy differences and activation barriers, we predict that the dominant exchange mechanism between [UO2(OH2)5]2+(aq) and bulk water is dissociative.
Study of a new multi channel foam and emulsion generator
Authors: Stoffel Maximilien , Wahl Sebastian , Lorenceau Elise , Hohler Reinhard , Mercier Bruno , Angelescu Dan
Published: February 2012

This work describes the design and operation of two microfluidic emulsion and foam generators. The difference between the two devices consists in the geometry of the output channel - in one case, we used a straight microchannel, whereas in the second case we implemented a fractal channel output geometry. While both devices can produce highly monodisperse foams and emulsions at high throughput (coefficient of variation CV≈1.5% and production frequency of up to 2.5kHz per channel with a total of 256 micro channels capable, in theory, of operating in parallel), the actual CV at the exit of the device was significantly higher due to interactions between adjacent droplets or bubbles. Using a combination of high-viscosity continuous phase liquid and low-solubility gas phase resulted in improved monodispersity. In these conditions, the fractal output channel geometry resulted in the lowest overall CV (≈3%) at the exit of the device for both foam and emulsion production, due to an inhibition of aging and coalescence phenomena as compared to the straight channel.
Combinatorial exploration of newly pseudo-quintenary layered-type Li-Ni-Co-Fe-Ti oxides
Authors: Fujimoto Kenjiro , Kanno Tomoyuki , Ikezawa Keita , Imanari Yuichiro , Sakai Maiko , Nakane Kenji , Ito Shigeru
Published: February 2012

In order to decrease the use of cobalt element as in LiCoO2,which is mainly used for cathode materials in lithium ion secondary batteries, a newly pseudo-quintenary layered-type Fe-doped Li-Ni-Co-Ti oxides library was created using the combinatorial technology "M-ist Combi system" based on the electrostatic spray deposition method.

The starting materials used were LiNO3, Ni(NO3)2·6H2O, Co(NO3)2·6H2O, Fe(NO3)3·9H2O and TiO2 nano-slurry. These materials were dissolved or dispersed in a mixture of ethanol and butyl carbitol and mixed in a predefined ratio, respectively. Subsequently, each of the mixtures was sprayed and dried on a grounded reaction plate that was heated to 400˚C. The deposited powder was sintered at 700˚C for 5 hours in air atmosphere. Phase identification of the obtained powder library was evaluated by a combinatorial powder x-ray diffractometer. A reaction phase diagram was established from the structure information and chemical composition by ICP-AES measurement.

From all results, single-phase layered-type compounds showed the composition region that included many Co and Ni elements. On the other hand, single phase spinel-type compounds existed in the Ti-rich composition region.
Fine particle preparation and electrode property of layered-type LiNi0.4Co0.6-xTixO2
Authors: Fujimoto Kenjiro , Ikezawa Keita , Ito Shigeru
Published: February 2012

Layered-type LiNi0.4Co0.6-xTixO2 (0≤x≤0.2) were prepared by conventional electrostatic spray deposition method for studying the correlation of crystal structure and electrode property. Starting materials used were LiNO3, Ni(NO3)2·6H2O, Co(NO3)2·6H2O and TiO2 nano-slurry. These materials were dissolved or dispersed in a mixture of ethanol and butyl carbitol and mixed by predefined ratio, respectively. Then, each of mixtures was sprayed and dried on the grounded reaction plate which was heated at 400 °C. Deposited powder was sintered at 700˚C for 10 hours in air atmosphere. Library of LiNi0.4Co0.6-xTixO2 (0≤x≤0.2) was indexed R-3m by powder X-ray diffraction patterns and its chemical compositions from ICP emission spectroscopy method corresponded to the initial composition conditions. From the diffracted intensity ratio of I(003)/I(104) and the structure refinement by Rietveld method, it was found that the proportion of cation mixing effect increased with increasing amount of Ti among of transition metals. And, from the observation by scanning electron microscope and the calculation by Scherrer’s method, the crystallite size decreased with increasing amount of Ti element. From the charge-discharge property of LiNi0.4Co0.6-xTixO2 (0≤x≤0.2) library, LiNi0.4Co0.5Ti0.1O2 showed better cycle behavior among the library.
The ARCAD Clinical Trials Program: An Update and Invitation
Authors: Sargent Daniel J. , Buyse Marc , Matheson Alastair , Goldberg Richard M. , Gramont Aimery ,   ARCAD Clinical Trials Program
Published: February 2012

It is widely accepted that traditional models of clinical investigation are becoming unsustainable in oncology and that trials must become more efficient in matching effective treatments to the patients most likely to benefit. In 2008, gastrointestinal oncologists from many countries began a collaboration to improve the design and conduct of clinical trials in their field, through the auspices of a French/U.S. charitable foundation, ARCAD. Whether this model of academic collaboration will be judged a success will depend on the quality of its scientific output during the next few years and whether this output, alongside that of other scientists, groups, and institutions, ultimately leads to more efficient trials and improved treatment options for patients.
Modeling High-Viscosity Oil/Water Cocurrent Flows in Horizontal and Vertical Pipes
Authors: Zhang H.Q.. Q. , Vuong D.H.. H. , Sarica C..
Published: February 2012

Water is produced along with heavy oil either during the primary production or during enhanced oil recovery. Therefore, cocurrent oil/water flow is a common occurrence in heavy-oil production and transportation. Production-system design is strongly dependent on accurate predictions of the oil-/water-flow behavior. The predictions of previous mechanistic models for pressure gradient and water holdup are tested with the data acquired, and significant discrepancies are identified, especially for horizontal flow (Vuong 2009). The model performance is largely dependent on the predictions of phase inversion, distribution, and interaction. On the basis of the new understandings from experimental observations, the Zhang and Sarica (2006) unified model is modified by adding a new closure relationship for water-wetted-wall fraction in stratified flow and a new interfacial shear model based on mixing-length theory. The new model is compared with both high-viscosity and low-viscosity oil-/water-flow experimental results, and significant improvements are observed.
Ultrahigh-Temperature/Ultrahigh-Pressure Scale Control for Deepwater Oil and Gas Production
Authors: Fan C.. , Shi W.. , Zhang P.. , Lu H.. , Zhang N.. , Work S.. , Al-Saiari H.A.. A. , Kan A.T.. T. , Tomson M.B.. B.
Published: February 2012

Scale control in deepwater oil and gas production is often challenging not only because of the geological and mechanical limitations associated with deepwater wells, but also because of the high-temperature (>150°C) and high-pressure (>10,000 psi) (HT/HP) environment, which may be associated with brine containing high total dissolved solids (TDSs) (>300,000 mg/L). These extreme conditions make scale prediction, control, and testing difficult because of the requirements for special alloys, pumps, and control equipment that are not readily available. Therefore, few reliable ultrahigh-temperature/ultrahigh-pressure (ultra-HT/HP) data are available. To overcome such challenges, an efficient flow-loop method has been established to study both the equilibrium and the kinetics of scale formation and inhibition at ultra-HT/HP conditions. This paper will discuss (1) an efficient flow-loop method to study the solubility of scale minerals at ultra-HT/HP conditions, (2) solubility of barite at temperature up to 200°C and pressure up to 20,000 psi, and (3) scale control and inhibitor selection for deepwater oil and gas production at ultra-HT/HP conditions. Specifically, the performance and thermal stability of some common scale inhibitors at the high-temperature conditions were studied in terms of barite-scale inhibition. The results to date indicated that (1) the solubility of barite at up to 200°C and 24,000 psi can be measured precisely by this newly developed flow-loop apparatus, (2) the rate of mineral scale formation at HT/HP may be considerably faster than previously projected from low-temperature studies and, hence, difficult to inhibit, (3) different scale inhibitors have shown considerably different thermal stability. The results and findings from these studies validate a new HT/HP apparatus for scale and inhibitor testing and information for better scale control at HT/HP conditions.
Association of Hyperuricemia with Renal Outcomes, Cardiovascular Disease, and Mortality
Authors: Liu Wan-Chun , Hung Chi-Chih , Chen Szu-Chia , Yeh Shih-Meng , Lin Ming-Yen , Chiu Yi-Wen , Kuo Mei-Chuan , Chang Jer-Ming , Hwang Shang-Jyh , Chen Hung-Chun
Published: February 2012

Background and objectives

Hyperuricemia is an independent risk factor for mortality, cardiovascular disease, and renal disease in general population. However, the relationship between hyperuricemia with clinical outcomes in CKD remains controversial.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

The study investigated the association between uric acid with all-cause mortality, cardiovascular events, renal replacement therapy, and rapid renal progression (the slope of estimated GFR was less than −6 ml/min per 1.73 m2/y) in 3303 stages 3–5 CKD patients that were in the integrated CKD care system in one medical center and one regional hospital in southern Taiwan.

Results

In all subjects, the mean uric acid level was 7.9±2.0 mg/dl. During a median 2.8-year follow-up, there were 471 (14.3%) deaths, 545 (16.5%) cardiovascular events, 1080 (32.3%) participants commencing renal replacement therapy, and 841 (25.5%) participants with rapid renal progression. Hyperuricemia increased risks for all-cause mortality and cardiovascular events (the adjusted hazard ratios for quartile four versus quartile one of uric acid [95% confidence interval] were 1.85 [1.40–2.44] and 1.42 [1.08–1.86], respectively) but not risks for renal replacement therapy (0.96 [0.79–1.16]) and rapid renal progression (1.30 [0.98–1.73]).

Conclusions

In stages 3–5 CKD, hyperuricemia is a risk factor for all-cause mortality and cardiovascular events but not renal replacement therapy and rapid renal progression.
Tumor necrosis factor-alfa and interleukin-4 in cerbrospinal fluid and plasma in different clinical forms of multiple sclerosis
Authors: Obradovic Dragana , Kataranovski Milena , Dincic Evica , Obradovic Slobodan , Colic Miodrag
Published: February 2012

Background/Aim. Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an immunemediated central nervous
system disease characterized by inflammation, demyelination and axonal
degeneration. Cytokines are proven mediators of immunological process in MS.
The aim of this study was to investigate whether there is a difference in
the production of the tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha) and
interleukin-4 (IL-4) in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and plasma in the MS
patients and the controls (other neurological non-inflammatory diseases) and
to determine a possible difference in these cytokines in plasma and CSF in
different clinical forms of MS. Methods. This study involved 60 consecutive
MS patients - 48 patients with relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) and 12 patients
with secondary progressive MS (SPMS). The control group consisted of 20, age
and sex matched, nonimmunological, neurological patients. According to the
clinical presentation of MS at the time of this investigation, 34 (56.7%)
patients had relapse (RRMS), 14 (23.3%) were in remission (RRMS), while the
rest of the patients, 12 (20.0%), were SPMS. TNF-alpha and IL-4
concentrations were measured in the same time in CSF and plasma in the MS
patients and the controls. Extended disability status score (EDSS), albumin
ratio and IgG index were determined in all MS patients. Results. The MS
patients had significantly higher CSF and plasma levels of TNF-alpha than
the controls (p < 0.001 for both samples). IL-4 CSF levels were
significantly lower in the MS patients than in the controls (p < 0.001),
however plasma levels were similar. The patients in relapse (RRMS) and with
progressive disease (SPMS) had higher concentrations of CSF TNF-alpha levels
than the patients in remission (p < 0.001). IL-4 CSF levels in relapse
(RRMS) and SPMS groups were lower than in the patients in remission. The
patients in remission had an unmeasurable plasma TNF-alpha level and the
patients with SPMS had significantly lower IL-4 levels in plasma than the
patients in relapse and remission (p < 0.001). The only significant
correlation between cytokine level with either EDSS, or albumin ratio, or
IgG index, was found between CSF TNF-alpha levels and albumin ratio in the
patients with relapse (R square = 0.431, p < 0.001). Conclusion. According
to the obtained data MS relapse was characterized by high concentrations of
TNF-alpha in CSF and plasma and low concentrations of IL-4 in CSF. Remission
was characterized by high concentrations of IL-4 and low concentrations of
TNF-alpha both in CSF and plasma. SPMS was characterized with lower
concentrations of TNF-alpha and IL-4 compared to relapse, both in CSF and
plasma.
123I-FP-CIT brain SPECT (DaTSCAN) imaging in the diagnosis of patients with movement disorders: First results
Authors: Jaukovic Ljiljana , Ilic Tihomir , Dopudja Marija , Ajdinovic Boris
Published: February 2012

Background/Aim. 123I-FP-CIT brain single-photon emission computed tomography
(SPECT), DaTSCAN imaging, offers a possibility to study structural and
biochemical integrity of presinaptic dopaminergic neurotransmitter system.
The aim of this study was to evaluate the usefulness of 123I-FP-CIT brain
SPECT scintigraphy in patients with extrapyramidal diseases. Methods. Fifteen
patients (8 males and 7 females), aged 26-81 years, presenting with
extrapyramidal symptoms entered the study. Out of them, 7 patients were
diagnosed with definite clinical form of idiopathic Parkinson?s disease (PD)
or clinical probable for PD clinical stage 2-4 using the Hoehn&Yahr scale
(H&Y); 6 patients were with atypical parkinsonism (AP), 1 patient with
essential, and 1 with psychogenic tremor. SPECT was performed 180 min after
injection of 185 MBq 123IFP- CIT using a dual head Gamma camera. Sixty four
one minutes? frames were acquired using a noncircular rotation mode into a
128 ? 128 image matrix. Transverse slices were reconstructed using a 0.6
order Butterworth filter. Visual interpretation was based on striatal uptake,
left to right asymmetry and substructures most affected. The ratio of binding
for the entire striatum, caudate and putamen to nonspecific binding in
occipital cortex was calculated. SPECT findings were categorized as normal
and abnormal (incipient, moderate and severe presinaptic deficit). Results.
123I-FP-CIT uptake was reduced in the striatum of 6/7 patients with PD and
5/6 patients with AP. Two patients with PD and AP showed a negative finding.
The remaining 2 negative results were obtained in the patients diagnosed with
essential tremor and psychogenic tremor. The mean striato-occipital ratio
(SDR) of the most affected side was lower in the patients with PD.
Conclusion. Our first results confirm the usefulness of 123I-FPCIT brain
SPECT in differential diagnosis of extrapyramidal diseases.
Applicability of a Serbian version of the “Oral Impacts on Daily Performance (OIDP)” index - assessment of oral health-related quality of life
Authors: Stancic Ivica , Kulic Jelena , Tihacek-Sojic Ljiljana , Stojanovic Zorica
Published: February 2012

Background/Aim. The Oral Impacts on Daily Performance (OIDP) is a well-known
psychometric test used internationally to assess the oral health-related
quality of life. The interview and self-administrated questionnaire both
assess the degree to which oral health problems have affected the life of the
participants over the previous 6 months. The aim of this study was to
translate the OIDP index into Serbian and to assess its reliability in
practice as its initial verification in the Serbian speaking area. Methods.
Following an internationally established methods, the OIDP scale was
translated using standardized methodology that consisted of forward
translation, pilot study and backward translation. Results. A pilot study was
carried out with 44 respondents (24 males i 20 females) using a preliminar
Serbian version of the OIDP index. All patients were aged over 65 years. A
total of 68.2% of the participants replied that they had at least one OIDP
impact on daily life in the past 6 months. These troubles were most prominent
during eating (47.7%) and speaking (36.4%), but there is a little impact of
troubles in the domain of psychosocial sphere. The corrected item-total
correlation coefficients for all items were above the minimum recommended
level of 0.20 for including an item in a scale. The standardized Cronbach?s
alpha coefficient was 0.75. Conclusion. Based on these results, we can
conclude that this index is suitable for use in everyday practice in Serbian
speaking area providing useful information required to assess oral
health-related quality of life.
Reversal deterioration of renal function accompanied with primary hypothyrodism
Authors: Dragovic Tamara
Published: February 2012

Introduction. Hypothyroidism is often accompanied with decline of kidney
function, or inability to maintain electrolyte balance. These changes are
usually overlooked in everyday practice. Early recognition of this
association eliminates unnecessary diagnostic procedures that postpone the
adequate treatment. Case report. Two patients with elevated serum creatinine
levels due to primary autoimmune hypothyroidism, with complete recovery of
creatinine clearance after thyroid hormone substitution therapy are
presented. The first patient was a young male whose laboratory tests
suggested acute renal failure, and the delicate clinical presentation of
reduced thyroid function. The second patient was an elderly woman with a
history of a long-term signs and symptoms attributed to ageing, including the
deterioration of renal function, with consequently delayed diagnosis of
hypothyroidism. Conclusion. Serum thyrotropin and thyroxin levels measurement
should be done in all cases of renal failure with undefined renal desease,
even if the typical clinical presentation of hypothyroidism is absent.
Thyroid hormone assays sholud also be performed in all patients with chronic
kidney disease whose kidney function is rapidly worsening.
Cervical Margin Integrity of Class II Resin Composite Restorations in Laser- and Bur-Prepared Cavities Using Three Different Adhesive Systems
Authors: Oskoee PA , Kimyai S , Ebrahimi ME , Rikhtegaran S , Pournaghi-Azar F
Published: February 2012

One of the challenges in durability of posterior tooth-colored restorative materials is polymerization shrinkage, which results in gap formation between the restoration and tooth structure. The aim of the present study was to investigate marginal adaptation of Class II composite restorations using a self-etching and two etch-and-rinse adhesive systems in cavities prepared either with bur or Er,Cr:YSGG laser. A total of 45 extracted sound human premolars were selected. In each tooth, mesial and distal Class II cavities were prepared either by a diamond bur or by Er,Cr:YSGG laser with the margins 1 mm apical to the cemento-enamel junction. Then the teeth were randomly divided into three groups of 15 each, according to the type of the adhesive system used (Single Bond, Single Bond 2, and Adper Easy One adhesive systems). Subsequent to restoring the teeth, the specimens were subjected to thermal cycling between 5 ± 2°C and 55 ± 2°C for 500 cycles and were then cut longitudinally into two halves using a diamond disk. Marginal adaptation was evaluated using a stereomicroscope, and the values for gap widths were obtained in micrometers. Data were analyzed using two-factor analysis of variance and post hoc tests. There were statistically significant differences in mean marginal gap widths between the adhesive type and preparation groups (p<0.05). The interfacial gap width in bur-prepared cavities was significantly less than that in laser-prepared cavities, and the lowest gap width was observed in Adper Easy One regardless of the type of the preparation.
Parallel performance of the fine-grain pipeline FPGA image processing system
Authors: Gorgoń M.
Published: February 2012

The use of FPGA circuits in imaging systems increases. They compete with other computing environments. The article describes the indications to be followed while choosing the type of image processing computing system taking under consideration the advantages and disadvantages of each technology: general purpose processor, digital signal processor, graphical processing unit, application specific Integrated circuit and field programmable gate array. Attention is drawn to various video transmission standards. The state of research and development trends in the field of FPGA-based image processing are briefly presented. A defining processing performance method for image processing is proposed. It is proven that for a pipeline architecture implemented in FPGA, a linear speedup is achieved and parallel efficiency is equal to one.
Modular non-computational-connectionist-hybrid neural network approach to robotic systems *
Authors: Bamford C.D. , Mitchell R.J.
Published: February 2012

Spiking neural networks are usually limited in their applications due to their complex mathematical models and the lack of intuitive learning algorithms. In this paper, a simpler, novel neural network derived from a leaky integrate and fire neuron model, the ‘cavalcade’ neuron, is presented. A simulation for the neural network has been developed and two basic learning algorithms implemented within the environment. These algorithms successfully learn some basic temporal and instantaneous problems. Inspiration for neural network structures from these experiments are then taken and applied to process sensor information so as to successfully control a mobile robot.
Structural pattern and emplacement mechanisms of the Krížna cover nappe (Central Western Carpathians)
Authors: Prokešová Roberta , Plašienka Dušan , Milovský Rastislav
Published: February 2012

Structural pattern and emplacement mechanisms of the Krížna cover nappe (Central Western Carpathians)

The Central Western Carpathians are characterized by both the thick- and thin-skinned thrust tectonics that originated during the Cretaceous. The Krížna Unit (Fatric Superunit) with a thickness of only a few km is the most widespread cover nappe system that completely overthrusts the Tatric basement/cover superunit over an area of about 12 thousands square km. In searching for a reliable model of its origin and emplacement, we have collected structural data throughout the nappe body from its hinterland backstop (Veporic Superunit) to its frontal parts. Fluid inclusion (FI) data from carbonate cataclastic rocks occurring at the nappe sole provided useful information about the p-T conditions during the nappe transport. The crucial phenomena considered for formulation of our evolutionary model are: (1) the nappe was derived from a broad rifted basinal area bounded by elevated domains; (2) the nappe body is composed of alternating, rheologically very variable sedimentary rock complexes, hence creating a mechanically stratified multilayer; (3) presence of soft strata serving as décollement horizons; (4) stress and strain gradients increasing towards the backstop; (5) progressive internal deformation at very low-grade conditions partitioned into several deformation stages reflecting varying external constraints for the nappe movement; (6) a very weak nappe sole formed by cataclasites indicating fluid-assisted nappe transport during all stages; (7) injection of hot overpressured fluids from external sources (deformed basement units) facilitating frontal ramp overthrusting under supralithostatic conditions. It was found that no simple mechanical model can be applied, but that all known principal emplacement mechanisms and driving forces temporarily participated in progressive structural evolution of the nappe. The rear compression operated during the early stages, when the sedimentary succession was detached, shortened and transported over the frontal ramp. Subsequently, gravity spreading and gliding governed the final nappe emplacement over the unconstrained basinal foreland.
Blocking and Non-Blocking Process Synchronization: Analysis of Implementation
Authors: Nazaruk Vladislav , Rusakov Pavel
Published: February 2012

Blocking and Non-Blocking Process Synchronization: Analysis of Implementation

—In computer programs with multiple processes, inter-process communication is of high importance. One of its main aspects is process synchronization, which can be divided into two classes: blocking and non-blocking. Blocking synchronization is simpler and mostly used; however, non-blocking synchronization allows avoiding some negative effects. In this paper, there is discussed the logic of widespread process synchronization mechanisms and is analyzed the support of these mechanisms in different platforms.
Mercury Pollution Exploration in Latvia with High-Sensitivity Zeeman Atomic Absorption Spectrometry
Authors: Bogans Egils , Gavare Zanda , Svagere Anda , Poikane Rita , Skudra Jānis
Published: February 2012

Mercury Pollution Exploration in Latvia with High-Sensitivity Zeeman Atomic Absorption Spectrometry

This research presents Hg pollution measurements performed in Latvia with sensitive method using Zeeman AAS analyzer RA-915+ and necessary attachments. Air in Riga city and water samples from a number of rivers and lakes of Latvia were analyzed for presence of low-level Hg concentrations. Ombrotrophic bog peat was analyzed to get insight into long-term trends. Environment in the sites sampled is relatively clean according to the results obtained, but there are local spots of pollution.
Air Quality in Riga and Its Improvement Options
Authors: Kleperis Janis , Bajars Gunars , Bremere Ingrida , Menniks Martins , Viksna Arturs , Osite Agnese , Pavlicuks Dmitrijs
Published: February 2012

Air Quality in Riga and Its Improvement Options

Air quality in the city of Riga is evaluated from direct monitoring results and from accounting registered air pollutants in the city. It is concluded that from all air polluting substances listed in the European Commission directives, only nitrogen dioxide NO2 and particulate matter PM10 exceed the limits. In assessing the projected measures to improve air quality in Riga, it can be concluded that the implementation of cleaner fuels and improvements in energy efficiency of household and industrial sectors will decrease particle pollution, but measures in the transport sector will also contribute to reducing air pollution from nitrogen oxides.
Trace and Major Elements in Food Articles in Latvia: Root Vegetables
Authors: Vincevica-Gaile Zane , Klavins Maris , Rudovica Vita , Viksna Arturs
Published: February 2012

Trace and Major Elements in Food Articles in Latvia: Root Vegetables

It is known that the content of trace and major elements in plants is dependent on several factors, such as type of species, soil properties, climate conditions, agricultural and agrichemical factors, pollution. The aim of the study was to quantify element content of root vegetables grown in farmlands and allotment gardens in Latvia. Samples of onion bulbs and carrot roots were analyzed by atomic absorption spectrometry and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Quantitative amounts of 17 trace elements (Ag, As, Ba, Cd, Ce, Co, Cr, Cu, La, Mn, Ni, Pb, Rb, Se, Sr, V, Zn) and 5 major elements (Ca, Fe, K, Mg, Na) were determined. It was detected that carrot roots contained higher amounts of several elements than onion bulbs. Differences in element content of vegetables were also detected between the subgroups of samples grown in farmlands versus samples grown in allotment gardens. Data revealed that onions grown in farmlands were more affected by contaminants.
The State of Wiki Usage in U.S. K–12 Schools
Authors: Reich Justin , Murnane Richard , Willett John
Published: February 2012

To document wiki usage in U.S. K–12 settings, this study examined a representative sample drawn from a population of nearly 180,000 wikis. The authors measured the opportunities wikis provide for students to develop 21st-century skills such as expert thinking, complex communication, and new media literacy. The authors found four types of wiki usage: (a) trial wikis and teacher resource-sharing sites (40%), (b) teacher content-delivery sites (34%), (c) individual student assignments and portfolios (25%), and (d) collaborative student presentations and workspaces (1%). Wikis created in schools serving low-income students have fewer opportunities for 21st-century skill development and shorter lifetimes than wikis from schools serving affluent students. This study illustrates the exciting potential that Web 2.0 data warehouses offer for educational research.
All Wilde on the Western Front: Alan Bennett, Tom Stoppard, and the Theatre of War
Authors: Feldman Alex
Published: February 2012

This article explores pastiches of The Importance of Being Earnest (1895) in comic British plays about World War I. Beginning with the example of Alan Bennett's Forty Years On (1968) and then dealing more substantially with Tom Stoppard's Travesties (1974), it examines the ideological implications of these intertextual allusions in relation to the historiography of the 1960s. Bennett and Stoppard gesture towards the revisionist positions of Alan Clark, A.J.P. Taylor, and others who condemn the generals, and towards the society to which they belonged, while celebrating the courage of the ordinary combatant. And yet, although the grafting of Wildean characteristics onto portrayals of the Edwardian soldier forms part of a satirical critique, the article argues that both playwrights are sympathetic to the objects of their parody. Bennett's nostalgia for the spirit of the fin de siècle and its Edwardian legacy is more powerful than his condemnation of them and, in Travesties, rather than being stigmatized as an image of aristocratic irresponsibility, Earnest functions as a cipher for a whole series of liberal ideals identified with British culture. In the context of German militarism and Soviet Bolshevism, Wilde's comedy comes to stand for self-determination, for anti-authoritarianism, and for the rights of the individual in a world inimical to his/her freedom.