bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association between Physical Activity and Substance Use Behaviors among High School Students Participating in the 2009 Youth Risk Behavior Survey
Authors: Dunn Michael S.
Published: May 2014

This study examined the relationship between physical activity, physical education class, and sports participation on the substance use practices of adolescents. Data was derived from the 2009 Youth Risk Behavior Survey study of adolescent behaviors. The results of this study indicated that recreational physical activity, attending PE class, and participating in sports were independent protective factors for many cigarette use behaviors but not for smokeless tobacco use. Additionally, recreational physical activity and sports participation appears to be a protective factor for marijuana use among females but not males. On the other hand, recreational physical activity and sports participation appears to be a risk factor for alcohol use behaviors among males.
Use of Objective Psychomotor Tests in Health Professionals
Authors: Causby Ryan , Reed Lloyd , McDonnell Michelle , Hillier Susan
Published: May 2014

Evaluation of psychomotor skills is undertaken in a number of broad contexts. This includes testing of health professional populations as a measure of innate ability, to evaluate skill acquisition, or to compare professions. However, the use of psychomotor tests is frequently confounded by a lack of understanding of a particular tool's psychometric properties, strengths, and weaknesses. To identify and appraise the most commonly used tests on health professional populations, 86 articles were reviewed and the top nine tests identified. Few tests have had sufficient validity or reliability testing on health professionals. Based on the evidence available, use of the Grooved Pegboard Test, the Purdue Pegboard Test, or the Finger Tapping Test is recommended for the evaluation of dexterity in a health professional population; however, this choice may be dependent on the task(s) to which findings are generalised. More rigorous evaluation of validity and other psychometric properties is required.
Crystallographic and structural characterization of heterometallic platinum complexes Part VI. Heterohexanuclear complexes
Authors: Melník Milan , Mikuš Peter , Holloway Clive
Published: May 2014

This review classifies and analyzes heterohexanuclear platinum clusters into seven types of metal combinations:Pt5M, Pt4M2, Pt3M3, Pt2M4, PtM5, Pt2M3M′, and Pt2M2M2′. The crystals of these clusters generally belong to six crystal classes: monoclinic, triclinic, orthorhombic, tetragonal, trigonal and cubic. Among the wide range of stereochemistry adopted by these clusters, octahedral and capped square-pyramidal are the most common. Although platinum is classified as a soft metal atom, it bonds to a variety of soft, borderline and hard metals. Nineteen different heterometal ions are involved in hexanuclear platinum clusters. The shortest Pt-M bond distance in the case of M being a non-transition element is 2.395(4) Å for germanium and for M being a transition metal ion it is 2.402(2) Å for Cobalt. The shortest Pt-Pt bond distance observed in these clusters is 2.532 Å. Several relationships between the structural parameters are identified and discussed. Some clusters exist in two isomeric forms and some show crystallographically independent molecules within the same crystal. Such isomers and independent molecules are examples of distortion isomerism.
Dichelyne (Dichelyne) spinigerus sp. nov. (Nematoda: Cucullanidae) from the marine fish Otolithes ruber (Sciaenidae) off Iran and first description of the male of Philometra otolithi Moravec et Manoharan, 2013 (Nematoda: Philometridae)
Authors: Moravec František , Khosheghbal Maryam , Pazooki Jamileh
Published: May 2014

Recent parasitological examinations of the marine perciform fish (tigerteeth croaker) Otolithes ruber (Bloch et Schneider) (Sciaenidae) from off Iran yielded one new and one previously known nematode species: Dichelyne (Dichelyne) spinigerus sp. nov. (Cucullanidae) from the host’s intestine in the Persian Gulf and Philometra otolithi Moravec et Manoharan, 2013 (Philometridae) from the ovary in the Persian Gulf and the Sea of Oman. The new species D. spinigerus is mainly characterized by the tail tip of both sexes terminating in two shaply pointed spikes (one dorsal and one ventral) and bearing a pair of minute lateral cuticular spines at its base, situation of both deirids and the excretory pore well posterior to the level of the posterior end of oesophagus, absence of a precloacal sucker and the presence of one or two intestinal caeca. The male and small mature females of the gonad-infecting species P. otolithi are described for the first time, based on light and scanning electron microscopical studies. The male of P. otolithi is most similar to that of P. johnii Moravec et Ali, 2013, but differs from it by the structure of the cephalic end and the number of caudal papillae; both species also differ from each other by the presence of transverse lamellae in the buccal cavity of gravid and subgravid females of P. otolithi, which are missing in those of P. johnii.
A new feather mite species of the genus Neumannella Trouessart, 1916 (Analgoidea, Dermoglyphidae) from the Red-winged Tinamou Rhynchotus rufescens (Temminck, 1815) (Aves, Tinamiformes) with remarks to the evolution of host-parasite associations of the genus
Authors: Dabert Jacek
Published: May 2014

Neumannella skorackii, a new species of the feather mite family Dermoglyphidae (Acari, Astigmata) is described from the Red-winged Tinamou Rhynchotus rufescens (Temminck, 1815) (Aves, Tinamiformes) from Paraguay and a key to all known species of the genus is provided. The phylogenetic relationships (MP analysis of 25 morphological characters) between Neumannella species along with the evolutionary history of host-parasite associations revealed by Jungle reconciliation method are reconstructed. Relatively low cospeciation contribution to the recent host-parasite associations is discovered.
The effect of initial dose on the recovery and final yields of Heterorhabditis megidis (Rhabditida: Heterorhabditidae) in larvae of the great wax moth, Galleria mellonella
Authors: Tumialis Dorota , Pezowicz Elżbieta , Mazurkiewicz Anna , Skrzecz Iwona , Popowska-Nowak Elżbieta , Petrykowska Agnieszka
Published: May 2014

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of different initial doses of the infective juveniles (IJs) (50 IJs, 200 IJs, 1000 IJs) of Heterorhabditis megidis Poinar (Rhabditida: Heterorhabditidae) strain IsM15/09 on recovery, final yields and percent final yields in larvae Galleria mellonella ( L.). Percent recovery was not directly related to initial dose. Final yields also did not change with the initial dose. However, percent yields was highly negatively correlated with initial dose of nematodes and was the highest with the 50 IJs dose. Additional point of the study was to investigate whether the nematodes are able to produce progeny from one hermaphroditic individual. The results showed that the invasive larvae resumed growth and transformed into hermaphroditic individuals that reproduced without cross-fertilisation.
A new species and new host records of the quill mites (Acari: Syringophilidae) associated with sunbirds (Passeriformes: Nectariniidae)
Authors: Klimovičová Miroslava , Smoľák Radoslav , Njoroge Peter , Hromada Martin
Published: May 2014

Neoaulonastus cinnyris sp. nov. (Acari: Prostigmata: Syringophilidae) parasitising Cinnyris mediocris (Passeriformes: Nectariniidae) from Tanzania is described. Additionally, Picobia oritis Skoracki et al. 2009 was recorded on four new hosts belonging to the family Nectariniidae from Ethiopian region: Cinnyris oustaleti (Bocage) from Angola, Cinnyris venustus (Shaw) from West Somalia, Cinnyris talatala Smith from Botswana and Zambia and Cinnyris erythrocercus (Hartlaub) from Uganda. All known quill mite species from family Nectariniidae are summarized in table.
Evaluation of wondfo rapid diagnostic kit (Pf-HRP2/PAN-pLDH) for diagnosis of malaria by using nano-gold immunochromatographic assay
Authors: Wu Junlin , Peng Yunping , Liu Xiaoyun , Li Wenmei , Tang Shixing
Published: May 2014

Prompt and accurate diagnosis is necessary to start adequate treatment for different affecting species including P. falciparum and P. vivax. Here we described the Wondfo Rapid diagnostic Kit (Pf-HRP2/PAN-pLDH) for the detection of P. falciparum and pan-plasmodium in patient specimen by using a nano-gold immunochromatographic assay. Our rapid assay adapted nano-gold labeling techniques and the monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) against both histidine rich protein-2 (Pf HRP-2) of P. falciparum and pan plasmodium-specific pLDH (pan pLDH). The established two-antibody sandwich immunochromatographic assay could detect P. falciparum and pan-plasmodium. The sensitivity and specificity of Wondfo rapid diagnostic kit were determined by comparing with the “gold standard” of microscopic examination of blood smears. In this study1023 blood samples were collected from outpatient clinics in China and Burma, and detected by both Wondfo kit and microscopic examination. The detection sensitivity and specificity of Wondfo rapid diagnostic kit were 96.46% and 99.67% for P. falciparum (HRP2), 95.03% and 99.24% for pLDH, 96.83% and 99.74% for non-falciparum species, 96.70% and 99.74% for P. vivax, respectively. These results indicate that Wondfo rapid diagnostic assay may be useful for detecting P. falciparum and non-P. falciparum (especially P.v.) in patient specimen.
Two new species of Eimeria (Apicomplexa, Eimeriidae) from tree skinks, Prasinohaema spp. (Sauria: Scincidae), from Papua New Guinea
Authors: McAllister Chris , Duszynski Donald , Fisher Robert , Austin Christopher
Published: May 2014

Between September 1991 and June 1992, feces from 4 species of tree skinks, Prasinohaema spp. from Papua New Guinea, were collected and examined for coccidia. Two species, P. flavipes and P. prehensicauda were found to harbor eimerians which are described as new. Oocysts of Eimeria krausi sp. nov. from P. flavipes were ellipsoidal to subspheroidal with a smooth bilayered wall and measured (L × W) 19.2 × 16.9 μm, with a length/width (L/W) ratio of 1.1. Micropyle and oocyst residuum were absent but a fragmented polar granule was present. Sporocysts were ellipsoidal, 9.7 × 6.7 μm, L/W of 1.5. Stieda, subStieda and paraStieda bodies were absent. The sporocyst residuum was composed of many small granules in a compact mass between sporozoites. The sporozoites were sausage-shaped, 11.7 × 2.7 μm, in situ, with an ellipsoidal posterior refractile body and a spheroidal anterior refractile body. Oocysts of Eimeria greeri sp. nov. from P. prehensicauda were ellipsoidal with a smooth bilayered wall, (L × W) 23.0 × 18.3 μm, with a L/W of 1.3. Micropyle and oocyst residuum were absent but a fragmented polar granule was present. Sporocysts were ellipsoidal, 9.7 × 8.4 μm, with a L/W of 1.2. Stieda, subStieda and paraStieda bodies were absent. The sporocyst residuum was composed of many large granules in a compact mass between sporozoites. The sporozoites were sausage-shaped, with an ellipsoidal posterior refractile body and a spheroidal anterior refractile body. We document here the first report of coccidia from skinks of the genus Prasinohaema.
Redescription of Haemogregarina garnhami (Apicomplexa: Adeleorina) from the blood of Psammophis schokari (Serpentes: Colubridae) as Hepatozoon garnhami n. comb. based on molecular, morphometric and morphologic characters
Authors: Abdel-Baki Abdel-Azeem , Al-Quraishy Saleh , Zhang J.
Published: May 2014

Hepatozoon garnhami n. comb. was redescribed from Schokari sand snakes (Psammophis schokari) collected from Riyadh city in Saudi Arabia. Gametocytes were found in the peripheral blood of 2 of 15 snakes examined. Based on the similar morphological and morphometric characteristics, the same host and a similar host habitat environment, it can be concluded for the first time that the present species is conspecific with Haemogregarina garnhami previously reported from Psammophis shokari aegyptius. To further characterize this parasite, the partial 18S rRNA gene was amplified and sequenced. The sequence analysis also showed that Haemogregarina garnhami should be reassigned into the genus Hepatozoon as Hepatozoon garnhami which has 99.5% (859/863 bp) sequence similarity to Hepatozoon ayorgbor, infecting the erythrocytes of Python regius in Ghana. Phylogenetic analysis showed that H. garnhami formed a mixed clade with Hepatozoon spp. from geckos, snakes and rodents and ophidian Hepatozoon spp. did not form a separated phylogenetic unit. Also, Psammophis schokari-infecting Hepatozoon contained several different genetic lineages. To our knowledge, the present work extends the geographic distribution of H. garnhami and is the first report of Hepatozoon infection in snakes from Saudi Arabia.
Seroprevalence of Neospora caninum infection in dairy cows in Northern provinces, Thailand
Authors: Inpankaew Tawin , Jittapalapong Sathaporn , Mitchell Thomas , Sununta Chainirun , Igarashi Ikuo , Xuan Xuenan
Published: May 2014

Neospora caninum, an obligate intracellular protozoan parasite, is the causative agent of neosporosis, recognized as a major cause of bovine abortion around the world. Thailand is a developing agricultural country located in Southeast Asia. Livestock developments particularly in dairy cows of this country have been hampered by low productivity including milk and slow growth rate due to the impact of many pathogens including N. caninum. Currently, there is no effective method for control of neosporosis since there is less information regarding current status of infections. The objective of this study was to investigate the seroprevalence of neosporosis in dairy cows of the northern part of Thailand. During 2006–2007, the sera of 642 cows from 42 small farm holders with the top three highest consensus of dairy farms in the northern provinces, such as Chiang Rai, Chiang Mai and Lumpang were collected and performed tests. Antibodies to N. caninum were assayed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) with recombinant N. caninum surface antigen 1 (NcSAG1) and indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT). The overall prevalence of N. caninum infection in this study was 46.9% (301/642) by ELISA and 34.3% (220/642) by IFAT.
Seroprevalence of Neospora caninum in cats from the Czech Republic
Authors: Sedlák Kamil , Bartova Eva , Machacova Tereza
Published: May 2014

Sera of 414 cats coming from different parts of the Czech Republic were tested for N. caninum antibodies. Sera samples were collected during years 2002–2011. N. caninum antibodies were detected by a commercial competitive-inhibition enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (cELISA) with cut off ≥30% inhibition. Samples positive in cELISA were confirmed by an indirect fluorescence antibody test (IFAT); titre ≥50 was considered positive. In total, 137 (33%) cats reacted positively in cELISA; N. caninum antibodies in IFAT were detected in 16 (3.86%) cats with titres 50 and 100. In 6 cats, positive for N. caninum antibodies, T. gondii antibodies were also detected by IFAT. It is the first report of N. caninum antibodies in domestic cats from the Czech Republic and third report in Europe.
Endohelminth parasites of the leafscale gulper shark, Centrophorus squamosus (Bonnaterre, 1788) (Squaliformes:Centrophoridae) off Madeira Archipelago
Authors: Costa Graça , Chada Tomás , Melo-Moreira Egberto , Cavallero Serena , D’Amelio Stefano
Published: May 2014

The endohelminth parasite fauna of a deep water shark, the leafscale gulper shark, Centrophorus squamosus, examined from Madeiran waters, from September 2009 to January 2010, consisted of larval and juvenile cestodes of two orders, namely Trypanorhyncha and Tetraphyllidea, and L3 stages of Anisakis spp. Infection with Anisakis spp. could be due to the shark’s opportunistic feeding on squids and black-scabbard fish, Aphanopus carbo, which is heavily parasitized by Anisakis spp. in Madeira waters. The occurrence of larval and juvenile cestodes only, in this shark, suggests that the leafscale gulper shark features as a paratenic or a dead-end host for the parasites.
Evaluation of faecal flotation methods followed by species-specific PCR for detection of Echinococcus multilocularis in the definitive hosts
Authors: Széll Zoltán , Sréter-Lancz Zsuzsanna , Sréter Tamás
Published: May 2014

Echinococcus multilocularis is one of the most pathogenic zoonotic parasites in the temperate and arctic region of the Northern Hemisphere. For estimating the potential risk of human infection in endemic areas, reliable antemortem methods are needed to detect the parasite in carnivore definitive hosts. The sensitivity of routine flotation techniques for detection of E. multilocularis eggs was found to be low (3–33%) depending on the flotation solution used (specific gravities = 1.3–1.4). An improved faecal flotation followed by a species-specific PCR is described with a sensitivity of 74% (95% CI = 62–84%) and a specificity of 100% (95% CI = 94–100%). These parameters are similar to those of the intestinal scraping technique (sensitivity = 78%, specificity = 100%). The sensitivity of the improved flotation was significantly higher (P < 0.0001) than that of routine flotation techniques. The costs of the method are similar or lower than those of other antemortem diagnostic methods. Based on these data, the method is suitable for surveys of domesticated and wild carnivores.
Method of determination of palladium concentration for C-Pd nanostructural films as a function of film thickness, roughness and topography
Authors: Rymarczyk Joanna , Kozłowski Mirosław
Published: May 2014

In this paper a method of determination of Pd in a carbon-palladium film (C-Pd film) deposited on a quartz substrate is presented. This method is based on energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) and all experiments were performed using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) equipped with EDX system. Qualitative and quantitative analyses were carried out for C-Pd films prepared by PVD method in different technological conditions. It was shown that results of the experiments depended on the structural model, film thickness and electron beam energy used for Pd content calculation.

This method enabled us to conclude on the homogeneity of palladium distribution in the whole volume of carbonaceous matrix, depending on the parameters of PVD process. Additionally, these studies showed that a different palladium concentration in C-Pd films had a significant impact on their topography and morphology.
The Dalcroze Method, Marie Rambert, and Le Sacre du printemps
Authors: Odom Selma Landen
Published: May 2014

The standard narrative about the original production of Le Sacre du printemps is that the Ballets Russes dancers hated Nijinsky's choreography; that rehearsals were prolonged; that the work outraged audiences, who rioted; and that the ballet failed and disappeared, but Stravinsky's music endured as modernism's masterpiece. This article offers a revised history, drawing on archival and practice-based research on the method developed by Émile Jaques-Dalcroze, who incorporated movement into music teaching. Starting with what Nijinsky and Diaghilev observed at the Dalcroze institute at Hellerau, I turn to how the dancer Marie Rambert brought embodied knowledge from her Dalcroze background into the rehearsal process to help Nijinsky prepare the dancers to perform the complex work. I then take up the coverage of Dalcroze and Nijinsky that overlapped in newspapers and journals of the time. Finally, I reflect on why their reputations, first joined a century ago, remain intertwined.
Choreographing Modern Mexico: Anna Pavlova in Mexico City (1919)
Authors: Reynoso Jose L.
Published: May 2014

In this article, I examine the role that Russian ballerina Anna Pavlova played in Mexico's attempts to produce an embodied mestizo modernity that resonated with efforts to construct a post-revolutionary modern nation. After the revolution of 1910, cultural modernization consisted in the integration of Mexico's histories of indigenous civilizations and European influences in the production of expressive cultures intended to be local in character but universal in their appeal. I argue that Pavlova's performances from her Europeanized ballet repertoire as well as her balleticized rendition of Mexican folk dances helped to create a social space in which Mexican elites could reaffirm their affinity with international cosmopolitan classes while also attempting to retain a sense of Mexican distinctiveness. I contextualize my analysis by attending to racial and class formations implicated in the production of Mexico as a modern nation within the context of colonialist legacies informing notions of Western cultural modernity.
Mechanisms of Cancer Induction by Tobacco-Specific NNK and NNN
Authors: Xue Jiaping , Yang Suping , Seng Seyha
Published: May 2014

Tobacco use is a major public health problem worldwide. Tobacco-related cancers cause millions of deaths annually. Although several tobacco agents play a role in the development of tumors, the potent effects of 4-(methylnitrosamino)-1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanone (NNK) and N'-nitrosonornicotine (NNN) are unique. Metabolically activated NNK and NNN induce deleterious mutations in oncogenes and tumor suppression genes by forming DNA adducts, which could be considered as tumor initiation. Meanwhile, the binding of NNK and NNN to the nicotinic acetylcholine receptor promotes tumor growth by enhancing and deregulating cell proliferation, survival, migration, and invasion, thereby creating a microenvironment for tumor growth. These two unique aspects of NNK and NNN synergistically induce cancers in tobacco-exposed individuals. This review will discuss various types of tobacco products and tobacco-related cancers, as well as the molecular mechanisms by which nitrosamines, such as NNK and NNN, induce cancer.
Equivalent Temperature-Enthalpy Diagram for the Study of Ejector Refrigeration Systems
Authors: Khennich Mohammed , Sorin Mikhail , Galanis Nicolas
Published: May 2014

The Carnot factor versus enthalpy variation (heat) diagram has been used extensively for the second law analysis of heat transfer processes. With enthalpy variation (heat) as the abscissa and the Carnot factor as the ordinate the area between the curves representing the heat exchanging media on this diagram illustrates the exergy losses due to the transfer. It is also possible to draw the paths of working fluids in steady-state, steady-flow thermodynamic cycles on this diagram using the definition of “the equivalent temperature” as the ratio between the variations of enthalpy and entropy in an analyzed process. Despite the usefulness of this approach two important shortcomings should be emphasized. First, the approach is not applicable for the processes of expansion and compression particularly for the isenthalpic processes taking place in expansion valves. Second, from the point of view of rigorous thermodynamics, the proposed ratio gives the temperature dimension for the isobaric processes only. The present paper proposes to overcome these shortcomings by replacing the actual processes of expansion and compression by combinations of two thermodynamic paths: isentropic and isobaric. As a result the actual (not ideal) refrigeration and power cycles can be presented on equivalent temperature versus enthalpy variation diagrams. All the exergy losses, taking place in different equipments like pumps, turbines, compressors, expansion valves, condensers and evaporators are then clearly visualized. Moreover the exergies consumed and produced in each component of these cycles are also presented. The latter give the opportunity to also analyze the exergy efficiencies of the components. The proposed diagram is finally applied for the second law analysis of an ejector based refrigeration system.
Spatio-Temporal Distribution Patterns in Environmental Factors, Chlorophyll-a and Microcystins in a Large Shallow Lake, Lake Taihu, China
Authors: Ye Rui , Shan Kun , Gao Hailong , Zhang Ruibin , Xiong Wen , Wang Yulei , Qian Xin
Published: May 2014

The spatio-temporal distribution of environmental factors, chlorophyll-a (Chl-a), and microcystins (MCs) in a shallow lake, Lake Taihu (China), were investigated from 2009 to 2011 on a monthly basis at nine sampling stations. The annual mean concentration ranges of total nitrogen (TN), total phosphorus (TP), Chl-a, MC-LR and MC-RR were 0.17–10.53 mg/L, 0.027–0.581 mg/L, 0.10–129.75 µg/L, 0.013–2.019 µg/L and 0.002–0.794 µg/L, respectively. The average TN, ammonium (NH4+) and TP concentrations in Meiliang Bay decreased from 3.54 to 2.26 mg/L, 0.63 to 0.31 mg/L and 0.150 to 0.124 mg/L, respectively, when compared with values from 2006–2008, indicating that water quality has improved in severe cyanobacterial bloom areas in recent years. Additionally, the distribution of MCs was northern lake areas > western lake areas > central lake areas > macrophyte-dominated areas. Correlation analysis revealed that nutrients were the most important variable accounting for the variation of extracellular MC-LR concentration in heavy cyanobacterial bloom areas of Lake Taihu. During the study period, the maximum MCs concentration reached 2.75 ± 0.27 μg/L in the bloom period in the northern lake areas, which is more than two times the safety limit of 1 μg/L MCs required for drinking water. However, microcystins decreased gradually as the water quality improved from 2009 to 2011, indicating that the risk of MCs exposure was slightly decreased in Lake Taihu.
A Review of Data Quality Assessment Methods for Public Health Information Systems
Authors: Chen Hong , Hailey David , Wang Ning , Yu Ping
Published: May 2014

High quality data and effective data quality assessment are required for accurately evaluating the impact of public health interventions and measuring public health outcomes. Data, data use, and data collection process, as the three dimensions of data quality, all need to be assessed for overall data quality assessment. We reviewed current data quality assessment methods. The relevant study was identified in major databases and well-known institutional websites. We found the dimension of data was most frequently assessed. Completeness, accuracy, and timeliness were the three most-used attributes among a total of 49 attributes of data quality. The major quantitative assessment methods were descriptive surveys and data audits, whereas the common qualitative assessment methods were interview and documentation review. The limitations of the reviewed studies included inattentiveness to data use and data collection process, inconsistency in the definition of attributes of data quality, failure to address data users’ concerns and a lack of systematic procedures in data quality assessment. This review study is limited by the coverage of the databases and the breadth of public health information systems. Further research could develop consistent data quality definitions and attributes. More research efforts should be given to assess the quality of data use and the quality of data collection process.
Lyophilized Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) Promotes Craniofacial Bone Regeneration through Runx2
Authors: Li Qi , Reed David , Min Liu , Gopinathan Gokul , Li Steve , Dangaria Smit , Li Leo , Geng Yajun , Galang Maria-Therese , Gajendrareddy Praveen , Zhou Yanmin , Luan Xianghong , Diekwisch Thomas
Published: May 2014

Freeze-drying is an effective means to control scaffold pore size and preserve its composition. The purpose of the present study was to determine the applicability of lyophilized Platelet-rich fibrin (LPRF) as a scaffold for craniofacial tissue regeneration and to compare its biological effects with commonly used fresh Platelet-rich fibrin (PRF). LPRF caused a 4.8-fold ± 0.4-fold elevation in Runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2) expression in alveolar bone cells, compared to a 3.6-fold ± 0.2-fold increase when using fresh PRF, and a more than 10-fold rise of alkaline phosphatase levels and mineralization markers. LPRF-induced Runx2 expression only occurred in alveolar bone and not in periodontal or dental follicle cells. LPRF also caused a 1.6-fold increase in osteoblast proliferation (p < 0.001) when compared to fresh PRF. When applied in a rat craniofacial defect model for six weeks, LPRF resulted in 97% bony coverage of the defect, compared to 84% for fresh PRF, 64% for fibrin, and 16% without scaffold. Moreover, LPRF thickened the trabecular diameter by 25% when compared to fresh PRF and fibrin, and only LPRF and fresh PRF resulted in the formation of interconnected trabeculae across the defect. Together, these studies support the application of lyophilized PRF as a biomimetic scaffold for craniofacial bone regeneration and mineralized tissue engineering.
MicroRNA-199a-5p Affects Porcine Preadipocyte Proliferation and Differentiation
Authors: Shi Xin-E , Li Yue-Feng , Jia Long , Ji Hong-Lei , Song Zi-Yi , Cheng Jia , Wu Guo-Fang , Song Cheng-Chuang , Zhang Qiang-Ling , Zhu Jia-Yu , Yang Gong-She
Published: May 2014

MicroRNAs (miRNAs), a class of small non-coding RNAs, have emerged as novel and potent regulators of adipogenesis. However, few miRNAs have been fully investigated in porcine adipogenesis, given the fact that pig is not only an apropos model of human obesity research, but also a staple meat source of human diet. In this study, we showed that miRNA-199a-5p is highly expressed in porcine subcutaneous fat deposits compared to several other tissue types and organs measured alongside. Overexpression of miR-199a-5p in porcine preadipocytes significantly promoted cell proliferation while attenuating the lipid deposition in porcine adipocytes. By target gene prediction and experimental validation, we demonstrated that caveolin-1 (Cav-1) may be a bona fide target of miR-199a-5p in porcine adipocytes, accounting for some of miR-199a-5p’s functions. Taken together, our data established a role of miR-199a-5p in porcine preadipocyte proliferation and differentiation, which is at least partially played by downregulating Cav-1.
Solid-State Synthesis and Photocatalytic Activity of Polyterthiophene Derivatives/TiO2 Nanocomposites
Authors: Jamal Ruxangul , Osman Yakupjan , Rahman Adalet , Ali Ahmat , Zhang Yu , Abdiryim Tursun
Published: May 2014

Poly(3,4-propylenedioxy-2,2':5',2"-terthiophene)/TiO2 and poly(3,4-(2,2-dimethylenepropylenedioxy)-2,2':5',2"-terthiophene)/TiO2 nanocomposites were synthesized by a simple solid-state method. Additionally, the poly(3,4-propylenedioxy thiophene)/TiO2 and poly(3,4-2,2-dimethylenepropylenedioxythiophene)/TiO2 nanocomposites were synthesized in a similar manner for comparison. The structure and morphology were characterized by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) absorption spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The photocatalytic activities of the nanocomposites were examined through the degradation processes of a methylene blue (MB) solution under UV light and sunlight irradiation. The results of FTIR and UV-Vis spectra showed that the composites were successfully synthesized by solid-state method and the poly(3,4-propylenedioxy-2,2':5',2"-terthiophene)/TiO2 and poly(3,4-(2,2-dimethylenepropylenedioxy)-2,2':5',2"-terthiophene)/TiO2 nanocomposite had a higher oxidation degree and conjugation length than others. The results also indicated that the TiO2 had no effect on the crystallinity of composites, but was well embedded in the polymer matrix. Additionally, the highest degradation efficiency of 90.5% occurred in the case of the poly(3,4-propylenedioxy-2,2':5',2"-terthiophene)/TiO2 nanocomposite.
Porous Gold Films—A Short Review on Recent Progress
Authors: Zhang Renyun , Olin Håkan
Published: May 2014

Porous gold films have attracted increasing interest over the last ten years due to the unique properties of high specific surface area and electrical conductivity combined with chemical stability and ability to alter the surface chemistry. Several methods have been developed to synthesize porous gold films such as de-alloying, templating, electrochemical, and self-assembling. These porous gold films are used in diverse fields, for example, as electrochemical and Raman sensors or for chemical catalysis. Here, we provide a short review on the progress of porous gold films over the past ten years, including the synthesis and applications of such films.
In Vitro Leishmanicidal Activities of Sesquiterpene Lactones from Tithonia diversifolia against Leishmania braziliensis Promastigotes and Amastigotes
Authors: De Toledo Juliano , Ambrósio Sergio , Borges Carly , Manfrim Viviane , Cerri Daniel , Cruz Angela , Da Costa Fernando
Published: May 2014

Natural compounds represent a rich and promising source of novel, biologically active chemical entities for treating leishmaniasis. Sesquiterpene lactones are a recognized class of terpenoids with a wide spectrum of biological activities, including activity against Leishmania spp. In this work, a sesquiterpene lactone-rich preparation—a leaf rinse extract (LRE) from Tithonia diversifolia—was tested against promastigote forms of L. braziliensis. The results revealed that the LRE is a rich source of potent leishmanicidal compounds, with an LD50 value 1.5 ± 0.50 µg·mL−1. Therefore, eight sesquiterpene lactones from the LRE were initially investigated against promastigote forms of L. braziliensis. One of them did not present any significant leishmanicidal effect (LD50 > 50 µg·mL−1). Another had a cytotoxic effect against macrophages (4.5 µg·mL−1). The five leishmanicidal compounds with the highest level of selectivity were further evaluated against intracellular parasites (amastigotes) using peritoneal macrophages. Tirotundin 3-O-methyl ether, tagitinin F, and a guaianolide reduced the internalization of parasites after 48 h, in comparison with the negative control. This is the first report on sesquiterpene lactones that have potent leishmanicidal effects on both developmental stages of L. braziliensis.
Issues and Prospects of microRNA-Based Biomarkers in Blood and Other Body Fluids
Authors: Chevillet John , Lee Inyoul , Briggs Hilary , He Yuqing , Wang Kai
Published: May 2014

Cell-free circulating microRNAs (miRNAs) in the blood are good diagnostic biomarker candidates for various physiopathological conditions, including cancer, neurodegeneration, diabetes and other diseases. Since their discovery in 2008 as blood biomarkers, the field has expanded rapidly with a number of important findings. Despite the initial optimistic views of their potential for clinical application, there are currently no circulating miRNA-based diagnostics in use. In this article, we review the status of circulating miRNAs, examine different analytical approaches, and address some of the challenges and opportunities.
Randomized Controlled Trial Examining the Effects of Fish Oil and Multivitamin Supplementation on the Incorporation of n-3 and n-6 Fatty Acids into Red Blood Cells
Authors: Pipingas Andrew , Cockerell Robyn , Grima Natalie , Sinclair Andrew , Stough Con , Scholey Andrew , Myers Stephen , Croft Kevin , Sali Avni , Pase Matthew
Published: May 2014

The present randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, parallel-groups clinical trial examined the effects of fish oil and multivitamin supplementation on the incorporation of n-3 and n-6 fatty acids into red blood cells. Healthy adult humans (n = 160) were randomized to receive 6 g of fish oil, 6 g of fish oil plus a multivitamin, 3 g of fish oil plus a multivitamin or a placebo daily for 16 weeks. Treatment with 6 g of fish oil, with or without a daily multivitamin, led to higher eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) composition at endpoint. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) composition was unchanged following treatment. The long chain LC n-3 PUFA index was only higher, compared to placebo, in the group receiving the combination of 6 g of fish oil and the multivitamin. Analysis by gender revealed that all treatments increased EPA incorporation in females while, in males, EPA was only significantly increased by the 6 g fish oil multivitamin combination. There was considerable individual variability in the red blood cell incorporation of EPA and DHA at endpoint. Gender contributed to a large proportion of this variability with females generally showing higher LC n-3 PUFA composition at endpoint. In conclusion, the incorporation of LC n-3 PUFA into red blood cells was influenced by dosage, the concurrent intake of vitamin/minerals and gender.
Influence of matrix type on tree community assemblages along tropical dry forest edges
Authors: Benítez‐Malvido Julieta , Gallardo‐Vásquez Julio César , Alvarez‐Añorve Mariana Y. , Avila‐Cabadilla Luis Daniel
Published: May 2014

• Premise of the study: Anthropogenic habitat edges have strong negative consequences for the functioning of tropical ecosystems. However, edge effects on tropical dry forest tree communities have been barely documented.

• Methods: In Chamela, Mexico, we investigated the phylogenetic composition and structure of tree assemblages (≥5 cm dbh) along edges abutting different matrices: (1) disturbed vegetation with cattle, (2) pastures with cattle and, (3) pastures without cattle. Additionally, we sampled preserved forest interiors.

• Key results: All edge types exhibited similar tree density, basal area and diversity to interior forests, but differed in species composition. A nonmetric multidimensional scaling ordination showed that the presence of cattle influenced species composition more strongly than the vegetation structure of the matrix; tree assemblages abutting matrices with cattle had lower scores in the ordination. The phylogenetic composition of tree assemblages followed the same pattern. The principal plant families and genera were associated according to disturbance regimes as follows: pastures and disturbed vegetation (1) with cattle and (2) without cattle, and (3) pastures without cattle and interior forests. All habitats showed random phylogenetic structures, suggesting that tree communities are assembled mainly by stochastic processes. Long‐lived species persisting after edge creation could have important implications in the phylogenetic structure of tree assemblages.

• Conclusions: Edge creation exerts a stronger influence on TDF vegetation pathways than previously documented, leading to new ecological communities. Phylogenetic analysis may, however, be needed to detect such changes.
Du jeune en errance aux zonards
Authors: Pimor Tristana
Published: May 2014

L’apparition en France de jeunes en errance, appelés aussi « zonards », suscite des mesures politiques aussi bien sécuritaires que sociales. Néanmoins, peu d’études françaises en sciences humaines se penchent sur ce phénomène. Le flou des définitions et leurs multiples dénominations concourent à développer des analyses ethnocentrées, partielles et à inclure les zonards dans des catégories artificielles sans offrir un aperçu de leurs divers rapports au monde. La littérature Nord américaine, bien que plus éclairante, souffre des mêmes difficultés. Ainsi, par une approche ethnographique impliquée et collaborative avec un groupe de zonards, nous tentons dans cette étude d’appréhender les diverses trajectoires et positions zonardes en nous détachant le plus possible des présupposés normatifs sans pour autant nous contenter d’une simple description subjective.
Former de bons représentants. Les apprentissages militants formels et informels au sein d'une association de parents d'élèves
Authors: Barrault-Stella Lorenzo
Published: May 2014

Cet article traite des formes d’apprentissage, des savoirs transmis et de leurs enjeux au sein d’une association de parents d’élèves. Il s’appuie sur une enquête qualitative localisée, menée à la fois au niveau d’un département et d’une commune située en contexte urbain, dense et hétérogène socialement. L’enquête s’appuie sur la complémentarité d’entretiens approfondis, d’observations directes (notamment à la FCPE) et d’archives. À partir de ces matériaux, l’article souligne que, s’il existe quelques dispositifs formels de formation dans cette association (comme des stages à l’échelle départementale), l’organisation en use peu pour former ses adhérents à l’action collective et à la culture de mobilisation de l’association. Les parents les plus engagés localement s’appliquent plutôt à produire sélectivement des dispositions militantes et à transmettre des savoirs, savoir-faire et savoir-être de mobilisation de manière informelle et sur la base de cooptations locales. Cette production sélective de « bons » représentants de l’association, ayant pour enjeu le développement de compétences mobilisables face à l’administration scolaire, passe ainsi par des apprentissages mesurés et spécifiques, autorisant dans le même temps une majorité de parents d’élèves à ne pas s’investir dans l’association au-delà des établissements de leurs enfants.
L'impact des réseaux sociaux et des compétences émotionnelles dans la recherche d'emploi : étude exploratoire
Authors: Charrière Valérie , Dejoux Cécile , Dupuich Françoise
Published: May 2014

Les réseaux sociaux sont devenus incontournables dans une recherche d’emploi. Internet est utilisé particulièrement par les chercheurs d’emplois de la génération Y, lors de leur premier job et tout au long de leur carrière, et lui permet d’optimiser ses chances de réussite dans l’obtention d’un travail. Nous avons démontré l’interdépendance entre les variables : compétences réseaux, compétences émotionnelles associées à la génération Y. L’intelligence émotionnelle réfère donc aux capacités adaptatives autres que purement cognitives chez l’humain. La personne dotée d’intelligence émotionnelle présente des habiletés dans les quatre domaines de l’identification des émotions, l’utilisation des émotions, la compréhension des émotions et l’ajustement des émotions.
The Importance of Assessing Climate Change Vulnerability to Address Species Conservation
Authors: Bagne Karen E. , Friggens Megan M. , Coe Sharon J. , Finch Deborah M.
Published: May 2014

Species conservation often prioritizes attention on a small subset of “special status” species at high risk of extinction, but actions based on current lists of special status species may not effectively moderate biodiversity loss if climate change alters threats. Assessments of climate change vulnerability may provide a method to enhance identification of species at risk of extinction. We compared climate change vulnerability and lists of special status species to examine the adequacy of current lists to represent species at risk of extinction in the coming decades. The comparison was made for terrestrial vertebrates in a regionally important management area of the southwestern United States. Many species not listed as special status were vulnerable to increased extinction risk with climate change. Overall, 74% of vulnerable species were not included in lists of special status and omissions were greatest for birds and reptiles. Most special status species were identified as additionally vulnerable to climate change impacts and there was little evidence to indicate the outlook for these species might improve with climate change, which suggests that existing conservation efforts will need to be intensified. Current special status lists encompassed climate change vulnerability best if climate change was expected to exacerbate current threats, such as the loss of wetlands, but often overlooked climate-driven threats, such as exceeding physiological thresholds.
Anonymity and Pseudonymity in Data-Driven Science
Authors: Hobel Heidelinde , Schrittwieser Sebastian , Kieseberg Peter , Weippl Edgar
Published: May 2014

Data Mining, Business Intelligence and other empirical approaches have great potential for various fields of research activities considering the improvements in data processing and retrieval. By using an empirical approach for the research methodology, the underlying data set should be available, at least for the review process in order to prevent fraud and ensure quality of research. However, data disclosure of the research data raises considerable privacy concerns due to the liability of the scholars to protect the privacy of their volunteers and adhere to the privacy policies of protected data. Therefore it is important to know about the strengths and weaknesses of existing approaches of anonymization, pseudonymization and attacks such as inference attacks. This chapter will provide an overview.
Ant Colony Algorithm for Single Stage Supply Chain
Authors: Sridharan R. , Panicker Vinay V.
Published: May 2014

Swarm intelligence has emerged as an approach for developing meta-heuristics to solve combinatorial optimization problems. Ant Colony Optimization (ACO) is an example for a swarm-intelligence based meta-heuristic inspired by the social behavior of colonies of ants. In this chapter, an ACO-based heuristic is proposed for solving a distribution-allocation problem in a single-stage of a supply chain. Thus, this work aims at modeling and analysis of the distribution-allocation problem in a single-stage supply chain with a fixed cost for a transportation route. In addition, it provides an insight for researchers in developing heuristics based on ant colony optimization for supply chain related problems.
Applied Game Theory in Business Analytics
Authors: Fox William P.
Published: May 2014

In this chapter we introduce the concept of game theory and its use as a decision making tool in a competitive situation among players. We define and describe some different types of games and solution methodologies. We present the assumptions regarding these different types of game. We define and represent the different types of games between two players as either total conflict or partial conflict. We present solution techniques to both total conflict and partial conflict games. We present both pure strategy and mixed strategy solutions. We discuss the Nash equilibrium.
Barriers to E-Application in Agrifood Supply Chain
Authors: Kumar Rupesh , Agrawal Rajat , Sharma Vinay
Published: May 2014

The paper aims to identify barriers to e-Application in the agri-food supply chain in India and helps in developing mutual relationship of these barriers using interpretive structural modeling (ISM) technique. The barriers are identified using secondary sources and expert opinions. The paper is a blend of theoretical framework and practical application and employs structural analysis to draw an interventional roadmap to facilitate the use of e-Application in the agri-food supply chain. The research shows that there exists a group of barriers having a high driving power and low dependence requiring maximum attention. These barriers are strategically important for e-Applications. This paper provides a useful insight to the policymakers and stakeholders by focusing on those key barriers which are important for effective e-Application in the agri-food supply chain.
Customer Lifetime Value Measurement using Machine Learning Techniques
Authors: Rathi Tarun , Ravi Vadlamani
Published: May 2014

Customer Lifetime Value (CLV) is an important metric in relationship marketing approaches. There have always been traditional techniques like Recency, Frequency and Monetary Value (RFM), Past Customer Value (PCV) and Share-of-Wallet (SOW) for segregation of customers into good or bad, but these are not adequate, as they only segment customers based on their past contribution. CLV on the other hand calculates the future value of a customer over his or her entire lifetime, which means it takes into account the prospect of a bad customer being good in future and hence profitable for a company or organization. In this paper, we review the various models and different techniques used in the measurement of CLV. Towards the end we make a comparison of various machine learning techniques like Classification and Regression Trees (CART), Support Vector Machines (SVM), SVM using SMO, Additive Regression, K-Star Method and Multilayer Perception (MLP) for the calculation of CLV.