bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of Different Anatomical Structures on Distal Soft Tissue Procedure in Hallux Valgus Surgery
Authors: Schneider Wolfgang
Published: December 2012

Background: The distal soft tissue procedure is considered to be an effective surgical procedure to increase the correction in hallux valgus surgery. The goal of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of each single step of the lateral release in an experimental setup to assess which surgical steps are essential to correct hallux valgus deformity, which steps may be ineffective, and which steps may be risky. Materials and Methods: Three techniques of lateral release that differ in the sequence of surgical steps were evaluated in 15 fresh-frozen cadaver feet. After each step, an identical medial capsular reefing was simulated and the corrective effects on the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) angle, intermetatarsal (IM) angle, and sesamoid subluxation were assessed radiographically. Results: Transection of the deep transverse metatarsal ligament and the attachment of the adductor hallucis muscle had virtually no corrective effect. Dissection of the lateral metatarsosesamoid suspensory ligament following incision of the lateral capsule and the lateral collateral ligament allowed correction of the MTP and IM angles as well as sesamoid subluxation in all three experimental settings. Dissection of the lateral short sesamophalangeal ligament and the plantar attachment of the articular capsule led to overcorrection and instability of the joint. Conclusion: Transecting the lateral metatarsosesamoid suspensory ligament was the key to a successful lateral release in this model. Release of the deep transverse metatarsal ligament and the adductor hallucis muscle did not contribute to hallux valgus correction. The authors believe that the lateral short sesamophalangeal ligament and the plantar attachment of the articular capsule should be preserved to minimize the risk of possible joint instability. Clinical Relevance: The results of these study clarify contradictory findings in former clinical studies and should be considered in clinical practice.
Tendoscopic Debridement of Peroneus Quartus Muscle for Chronic Lateral Ankle Pain: A Case Report
Authors: Kassim Mansoor Mohammed , Rosenfeld Peter
Published: December 2012

Level of Evidence: V, Expert Opinion
Intraperitoneal magnesium sulphate plus bupivacaine for pain relief after laparoscopic cholecystectomy
Authors: Maharjan SK , Shrestha S
Published: December 2012

Background: Multimodal analgesia is necessary for management of pain after laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Magnesium sulphate is a new emerging drug for management of acute pain. This study was performed to study the analgesic efficacy of intraperitoneal bupivacaine and bupivacaine plus magnesium sulphate for postoperative pain relief after laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Methods: At the end of laparoscopic cholecystectomy, 60 patients were randomized to one of the following groups: bupivacaine group receiving intraperitoneal instillation of 30 ml of 0.25% bupivacaine and magnesium sulphate group receiving intraperitoneal instillation of 0.25% bupivacaine plus 50 mg/kg magnesium sulphate to total volume of 30 ml. Postoperative pain was evaluated by using visual analogue scale (standard Visual Analogue Scale pain score of 0-10). Time duration of first analgesia demanded was noted and rescue analgesic was given as tramadol 50 mg intravenously and on demand. Pain, Visual Analogue Scale score and total analgesic consumption was recorded for 24 hours and analysed. Results: The patients who were given intraperitoneal bupivacaine plus magnesium sulphate at the end of surgery had better pain relief in first 24 hours, Visual Analogue Scale score of 0-5 compared to sole bupivacaine group who had Visual Analogue Scale score of 3-7. The magnesium sulphate group had longer pain free period of average 5.53±4.33 hours after surgery compared to 3.16±1.59 hours in sole bupivacaine group. Total analgesic consumption in magnesium sulphate group was also less compared to bupivacaine group (125.0±36.5 and 75.0±25.0 in bupivacaine and magnesium sulphate group respectively). All the results show highly significant differences between the groups. Conclusion: The combined instillation of bupivacaine and magnesium sulphate into the peritoneal cavity at the end of laparoscopic surgery renders patients better pain control and less consumption of analgesics in first 24 hours compared to sole bupivacaine group. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jkmc.v1i1.7251 Journal of Kathmandu Medical College, Vol. 1, No. 1, Issue 1, Jul.-Sep., 2012 pp.21-25
Effects of Nest and Colony Features on Lesser Kestrel (Falco naumanni) Reproductive Success
Authors: Sarà Maurizio , Campobello Daniela , Zanca Laura
Published: December 2012

The Lesser Kestrel is a facultative colonial raptor mostly breeding in man-made structures. During 2009-2011 we checked the fate of 545 nests found in 18 colonies located in south-eastern Sicily. We determined the reproductive success of breeding pairs by analysing the survival time of each egg to hatching ( n = 2,495) and each nestling to fledging ( n = 1,849) with the linear hazard model of survival times. We determined whether egg and nestling survival differed between years with a Gehan–Wilcoxon test. By Cox regressions, we related the survival times with nest and colony features. Egg and nestling survival times showed a strong annual effect. The two reproductive stages of the Lesser Kestrel, when controlled for the annual effect, demonstrated a significant effect for some nest and colony features. Most of them, like the height from the ground, nest depth, reused nests and the presence of Jackdaws, are likely to be related to the predation pressure faced by Lesser Kestrel nests. Westward and southward nests had a better egg survival with respect to those on the cold sides and in the interior of buildings. The location of colony on the agricultural plain and human disturbance ranked as the most important variables, with core location of a colony and high disturbance levels negatively affecting the reproductive success of the Lesser Kestrel in the Gela Plain, so urging a more environmentally aware land use management of this Important Bird Area.
Structural Features and Healthy Properties of Polysaccharides Occurring in Mushrooms
Authors: Villares Ana , Mateo-Vivaracho Laura , Guillamón Eva
Published: December 2012

Polysaccharides from mushrooms have attracted a great deal of attention due to the many healthy benefits they have demonstrated, such as immunomodulation, anticancer activity, prevention and treatment of cardiovascular diseases, antiviral and antimicrobial effects, among others. Isolation and purification of polysaccharides commonly involve several steps, and different techniques are actually available in order to increase extraction yield and purity. Studies have demonstrated that the molecular structure and arrangement significantly influence the biological activity; therefore, there is a wide range of analytical techniques for the elucidation of chemical structures. Different polysaccharides have been isolated from mushrooms, most of them consisting of β-linked glucans, such as lentinan from Lentinus edodes, pleuran from Pleurotus species, schizophyllan from Schizophyllum commune, calocyban from Calocybe indica, or ganoderan and ganopoly from Ganoderma lucidum. This article reviews the main methods of polysaccharide isolation and structural characterization, as well as some of the most important polysaccharides isolated from mushrooms and the healthy benefits they provide.
The Effects of Radiation and Dose-Fractionation on Cancer and Non-Tumor Disease Development
Authors: Liu William , Haley Benjamin , Kwasny Mary , Li Jian-Jian , Grdina David , Paunesku Tatjana , Woloschak Gayle
Published: December 2012

The Janus series of radiation experiments, conducted from 1970 to 1992, explored the effects of gamma and neutron radiation on animal lifespan and disease development. Data from these experiments presents an opportunity to conduct a large scale analysis of both tumor and non-tumor disease development. This work was focused on a subset of animals from the Janus series of experiments, comparing acute or fractionated exposures of gamma or neutron radiation on the hazards associated with the development of tumor and non-tumor diseases of the liver, lung, kidney or vascular system. This study also examines how the co-occurrence of non-tumor diseases may affect tumor-associated hazards. While exposure to radiation increases the hazard of dying with tumor and non-tumor diseases, dose fractionation modulates these hazards, which varies across different organ systems. Finally, the effect that concurrent non-cancer diseases have on the hazard of dying with a tumor also differs by organ system. These results highlight the complexity in the effects of radiation on the liver, lung, kidney and vascular system.
Ecophysiological and Climatological Effects on Distribution of Vector Species and Malaria Incidence in India
Authors: Kaga Takumi , Ohta Shunji
Published: December 2012

The magnitude of regional malaria risk is dependent primarily on the dynamics and distribution of the vector species, which are determined mainly by climate conditions. A coupled model with ecophysiological and climatological factors was developed to estimate the spatiotemporal distribution of the five species of dominant malaria vectors in monsoon Asia. Here, we examined how the potential distribution obtained from the model could explain trends in malaria incidence observed in India, which has the highest number of confirmed cases of malaria in Asia. Most notably, there was a significant positive correlation between annual malaria incidences and the maximum generation number of vectors for each state (p < 0.001). Malaria incidence tended to increase exponentially as vector generation number increased. In addition, the interannual variation in observed regional malaria incidences was synchronized with that of the potential number of vector generations. The observed seasonal peak of malaria incidences corresponded closely to the simulated appearance period of vector species, except for intensively irrigated areas that experience anthropogenic impacts on hydrologic conditions. Simulated vector distributions effectively expressed spatial and temporal prevalence of malaria in India. This novel approach to modeling based on vector ecology is an effective method for assessing malaria risk.
Lech, M., et al., Quantitative Expression of C-Type Lectin Receptors in Humans and Mice. Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2012, 13, 10113-10131.
Authors: Lech Maciej , Susanti Heni , Römmele Christoph , Gröbmayr Regina , Günthner Roman , Anders Hans-Joachim
Published: December 2012

The authors wish to add this correction on their paper published in IJMS [1]. Galectin-1 was misclassified as a C-type lectin. Galectin-1 belongs to the family of the S-type lectins, i.e., the galectins. These errors have been amended in an amended version of the manuscript, which is available from the International Journal of Molecular Sciences website. The authors and publisher apologize for the inconvenience. [...]
Journal of Clinical Medicine Editorial
Authors: Grant-Kels Jane
Published: December 2012

“Why yet another journal?” Because this new journal will be different in that we are not just about new information but about understanding new information. We are online, peer reviewed, with a quick turnaround time from submission to publication and without any limit regarding length! Therefore, I am honored to introduce the Journal of Clinical Medicine (JCM), which has been created to serve as a hub for disseminating new findings and discoveries in clinical medicine to clinicians and medical researchers worldwide. [...]
U.S. DOE Progress Towards Developing Low-Cost, High Performance, Durable Polymer Electrolyte Membranes for Fuel Cell Applications
Authors: Houchins Cassidy , Kleen Greg , Spendelow Jacob , Kopasz John , Peterson David , Garland Nancy , Ho Donna , Marcinkoski Jason , Martin Kathi , Tyler Reginald , Papageorgopoulos Dimitrios
Published: December 2012

Low cost, durable, and selective membranes with high ionic conductivity are a priority need for wide-spread adoption of polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) and direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs). Electrolyte membranes are a major cost component of PEMFC stacks at low production volumes. PEMFC membranes also impose limitations on fuel cell system operating conditions that add system complexity and cost. Reactant gas and fuel permeation through the membrane leads to decreased fuel cell performance, loss of efficiency, and reduced durability in both PEMFCs and DMFCs. To address these challenges, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) Fuel Cell Technologies Program, in the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, supports research and development aimed at improving ion exchange membranes for fuel cells. For PEMFCs, efforts are primarily focused on developing materials for higher temperature operation (up to 120 °C) in automotive applications. For DMFCs, efforts are focused on developing membranes with reduced methanol permeability. In this paper, the recently revised DOE membrane targets, strategies, and highlights of DOE-funded projects to develop new, inexpensive membranes that have good performance in hot and dry conditions (PEMFC) and that reduce methanol crossover (DMFC) will be discussed.
Editors’ Introduction to “European Perspectives on the New Comparative Theology”
Authors: Berthrong John , Clooney Francis
Published: December 2012

This thematic issue of Religions, “European Perspectives on the New Comparative Theology,” asks how comparative theology—an old discipline that has been infused with new energy in recent decades and merited new attention—has been received, understood, and critiqued among theologians and scholars of religions in Europe today. How does comparative theology look in light of current understandings of theology, the study of religions, and comparative studies, and the politics of learning in the churches today? [...]
Plant Species Richness is Associated with Canopy Height and Topography in a Neotropical Forest
Authors: Wolf Jeffrey , Fricker Geoffrey , Meyer Victoria , Hubbell Stephen , Gillespie Thomas , Saatchi Sassan
Published: December 2012

Most plant species are non-randomly distributed across environmental gradients in light, water, and nutrients. In tropical forests, these gradients result from biophysical processes related to the structure of the canopy and terrain, but how does species richness in tropical forests vary over such gradients, and can remote sensing capture this variation? Using airborne lidar, we tested the extent to which variation in tree species richness is statistically explained by lidar-measured structural variation in canopy height and terrain in the extensively studied, stem-mapped 50-ha plot on Barro Colorado Island (BCI), Panama. We detected differences in species richness associated with variation in canopy height and topography across spatial scales ranging from 0.01-ha to 1.0-ha. However, species richness was most strongly associated with structural variation at the 1.0-ha scale. We developed a predictive generalized least squares model of species richness at the 1.0-ha scale (R2 = 0.479, RMSE = 8.3 species) using the mean and standard deviation of canopy height, mean elevation, and terrain curvature. The model demonstrates that lidar-derived measures of forest and terrain structure can capture a significant fraction of observed variation in tree species richness in tropical forests on local-scales.
A Wireless Accelerometer-Based Body Posture Stability Detection System and Its Application for Meditation Practitioners
Authors: Chang Kang-Ming , Chen Sih-Huei , Lee Hsin-Yi , Ching Congo , Huang Chun-Lung
Published: December 2012

The practice of meditation has become an interesting research issue in recent decades. Meditation is known to be beneficial for health improvement and illness reduction and many studies on meditation have been made, from both the physiological and psychological points of view. It is a fundamental requirement of meditation practice to be able to sit without body motion. In this study, a novel body motion monitoring and estimation system has been developed. A wireless tri-axis accelerometer is used to measure body motion. Both a mean and maximum motion index is derived from the square summation of three axes. Two experiments were conducted in this study. The first experiment was to investigate the motion index baseline among three leg-crossing postures. The second experiment was to observe posture dynamics for thirty minute’s meditation. Twenty-six subjects participated in the experiments. In one experiment, thirteen subjects were recruited from an experienced meditation group (meditation experience > 3 years); and the other thirteen subjects were beginners (meditation experience < 1 years). There was a significant posture stability difference between both groups in terms of either mean or maximum parameters (p < 0.05), according to the results of the experiment. Results from another experiment showed that the motion index is different for various postures, such as full-lotus < half-lotus < non-lotus.
The Role of Human Papillomavirus in Human Immunodeficiency Virus Acquisition in Men who Have Sex with Men: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Brown Brandon , Davtyan Mariam , Galea Jerome , Chow Erica , Leon Segundo , Klausner Jeffrey
Published: December 2012

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI) worldwide. Incidence rates of HPV infection among human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected individuals are well documented and are several-fold higher than among HIV-uninfected individuals. Few studies have demonstrated an increased risk for acquiring HIV infection in those with HPV infection, and this risk seems to be higher when HPV strains are of high-risk oncogenic potential. The estimated prevalence of high-risk oncogenic HPV infection is highest in men who have sex with men (MSM), a particularly vulnerable group with high prevalence rates of HIV infection and other STIs. In this paper, we provide a comprehensive review of the available literature on the role of HPV infection in HIV acquisition. Our review includes data from cross-sectional and longitudinal studies.
Derivation of electronic course templates for use in higher education
Authors: Hill Robin K. , Fresen Jill W. , Geng Fawei
Published: December 2012

Lecturers in higher education often consider the incorporation of web technologies into their teaching practice. Partially structured and populated course site templates could aid them in getting started with creating and deploying webbased materials and activities to enrich the teaching and learning experience. Discussions among instructional technology support staff and lecturers reveal a paucity of robust specifications for possible course site features that could comprise a template. An attempted mapping from the teaching task as understood by the instructor to the envisaged course website properties proves elusive. We conclude that the idea of an initial state for a course site, embodied in a template, remains useful and should be developed not according to a formula but with careful attention to the context and existing pedagogical practice. Any course template provided for the use of lecturers should be enhanced with supporting instructions and examples of how it may be adapted for their particular purposes.Keywords: course template; learning platform; pedagogical dimensions; course site properties(Published: 17 December 2012)Citation: Research in Learning Technology 2012, 20: 18665 - http://dx.doi.org/10.3402/rlt.v20i0.18665
Ni excès d'honneur ni indignité pour le plan d'affaires
Authors: Toutain Olivier , Fayolle Alain
Published: December 2012

Résumé Le plan d’affaires – ou Business Plan – connaît un grand succès. Il est un des seuls outils capable de relier les mondes académiques, professionnels et politiques impliqués dans le soutien au développement de l’entrepreneuriat. Mais il suscite des critiques et des controverses qui sont à la mesure de ce succès. Plutôt que de « brûler » le plan d’affaires, il convient de le remettre à sa place. Il n’est en effet qu’un moyen et non une fin.
L'entrepreneur effectual face aux limites du plan d'affaires
Authors: Chaabouni Haithem , Fayolle Alain , Ghorbel Faiez , Boujelbene Younes
Published: December 2012

Résumé Les opportunités peuvent être découvertes ou construites, suivant deux conceptions qui s’opposent dans la littérature en entrepreneuriat. L’approche positiviste (découverte) est compatible avec une vision, largement dominante, du business plan utilisé comme un outil de prédiction et de planification. L’approche constructiviste s’inscrit davantage dans des avancées récentes du domaine, elle présente notamment une forte compatibilité avec la théorie de l’effectuation. Ces deux approches présentent des limites et des implications particulières quant à l’utilisation et au devenir du business plan.
Traduire l'intention entrepreneuriale en chiffres dans le business plan
Authors: Millier Paul , Rey Jean-Pascal
Published: December 2012

Résumé L’entrepreneur et ses financeurs ont parfois du mal à se comprendre car ils ne parlent pas le même langage. Leurs modèles de représentation du projet et leurs grilles de lecture de la situation ne convergent pas toujours. En particulier, le business plan n’est pas forcément le meilleur support de communication. On peut néanmoins s’en servir comme point de départ d’une approche itérative permettant de concilier la réalité de l’entrepreneur avec le nécessaire formalisme des représentations chiffrées.
Construire et développer une opportunité entrepreneuriale par la démarche SynOpp
Authors: Chirita Mircea-Gabriel , Masson Marie-Ange , Ananou Claude
Published: December 2012

Résumé Les milieux universitaires et du conseil s’interrogent de plus en plus sur l’utilité du business plan 1 pour prédire les chances de réussite d’un projet entrepreneurial. À une époque caractérisée par les changements rapides et imprévisibles, il est légitime de s’interroger sur la pertinence du paradigme de la planification. Dans une perspective entrepreneuriale, nous remettons en question la pertinence du business plan comme moyen à la disposition d’un porteur de projet pour présenter l’opportunité qu’il a créée et les moyens pour la mettre en œuvre. Après avoir analysé cet outil, nous allons présenter les fondements d’une autre démarche. Ayant fait ses preuves au Canada depuis plusieurs années, elle rompt avec la réflexion axée sur l’écriture d’un business plan  : elle prône l’accompagnement de l’entrepreneur dans l’action.
La pensée de la technique : pour une approche humaniste
Authors: Feenberg Andrew , Franks Mathieu , Guychard Loïc
Published: December 2012

Résumé La critique de la technique repose souvent sur une méconnaissance de ses conditions sociales de production. En effet, si la technique peut bien sûr être instrumentalisée, il convient, plutôt que de la condamner en elle-même, de l’intégrer à la société, par exemple en offrant aux ingénieurs une formation généraliste incluant les humanités, ou en favorisant l’intervention des utilisateurs sur l’évolution des outils de communication.
Plus équitable, l'école retrouverait la voie de la réussite
Authors: Meuret Denis
Published: December 2012

Résumé Les enquêtes Pisa montrent que l’équité de l’école française s’est beaucoup dégradée au cours des années 2000. La rétablir relève de l’engagement politique et social, mais aussi du souci d’efficacité. Pour y parvenir, il ne faut pas craindre d’adopter certaines mesures d’évaluation par les résultats, souvent diabolisées, mais qui permettraient pourtant de mieux prendre en compte les besoins des élèves les plus faibles.
The Key Role of IL-6–Arginase Cascade for Inducing Dendritic Cell–Dependent CD4+ T Cell Dysfunction in Tumor-Bearing Mice
Authors: Narita Yoshinori , Kitamura Hidemitsu , Wakita Daiko , Sumida Kentaro , Masuko Kazutaka , Terada Satoshi , Nakano Kiichiroh , Nishimura Takashi
Published: December 2012

Evaluation of immune dysfunction during the tumor-bearing state is a critical issue in combating cancer. In this study, we initially found that IL-6, one of the cachectic factors, suppressed CD4+ T cell–mediated immunity through downregulation of MHC class II by enhanced arginase activity of dendritic cells (DC) in tumor-bearing mice. We demonstrated that administration of Ab against IL-6R (anti–IL-6R mAb) greatly enhanced T cell responses and inhibited the growth of tumor in vivo. We also found that IL-6 upregulated the expression of arginase-1 and arginase activity of DC in vitro. Tumor-infiltrating CD11c+ DC exhibited upregulated mRNA expression of arginase-1 but reduced expression of MHC class II in parallel with the increase in serum IL-6 levels at the late stage in tumor-bearing hosts. However, the administration of anti–IL-6R mAb into tumor-bearing mice inhibited both the downmodulation of MHC class II and the upregulation of arginase-1 mRNA levels in DC. Furthermore, we noted that Nω-hydroxy-L-arginine or L-arginine, an arginase-1 inhibitor, blocked the reduction in MHC class II levels on CD11c+ DC during the tumor-bearing state. Finally, we demonstrated that the administration of Nω-hydroxy-L-arginine at the peritumor site significantly enhanced CD4+ T cell responses and inhibited tumor growth. Thus, IL-6–mediated arginase activation and the subsequent reduction in MHC class II expression on DC appeared to be critical mechanisms for inducing dysfunction of the immune system in the tumor-bearing state. Blockade of the IL-6–arginase cascade is a promising tool to overcome the dysfunction of antitumor immunity in tumor-bearing hosts.
Vaccine Injection Site Matters: Qualitative and Quantitative Defects in CD8 T Cells Primed as a Function of Proximity to the Tumor in a Murine Glioma Model
Authors: Ohlfest John R. , Andersen Brian M. , Litterman Adam J. , Xia Junzhe , Pennell Christopher A. , Swier Lauryn E. , Salazar Andres M. , Olin Michael R.
Published: December 2012

Malignant gliomas are lethal brain tumors for which novel therapies are urgently needed. In animal models, vaccination with tumor-associated Ags efficiently primes T cells to clear gliomas. In clinical trials, cancer vaccines have been less effective at priming T cells and extending survival. Generalized immune suppression in the tumor draining lymph nodes has been documented in multiple cancers. However, a systematic analysis of how vaccination at various distances from the tumor (closest to farthest) has not been reported. We investigated how the injection site chosen for vaccination dictates CD8 T cell priming and survival in an OVA-transfected murine glioma model. Glioma-bearing mice were vaccinated with Poly:ICLC plus OVA protein in the neck, hind leg, or foreleg for drainage into the cervical, inguinal, or axillary lymph nodes, respectively. OVA-specific CD8 T cell number, TCR affinity, effector function, and infiltration into the brain decreased as the vaccination site approached the tumor. These effects were dependent on the presence of the tumor, because injection site did not appreciably affect CD8 T cell priming in tumor-free mice. Our data suggest the site of vaccination can greatly impact the effectiveness of cancer vaccines. Considering that previous and ongoing clinical trials have used a variety of injection sites, vaccination site is potentially a critical aspect of study design that is being overlooked.
Zosteriform metastases from colon carcinoma: an unusual pattern
Authors: Maio Paula , Amaro Cristina , Rodrigues Ana , Milheiro Adelaide , Cardoso Jorge
Published: December 2012

Cutaneous metastases of internal malignancies occur infrequently and the zosteriform spread of the skin lesions represents a rare entity. We report here a case of cutaneous metastases from a colon carcinoma clinically mimicked Herpes varicella-zoster. The literature is also reviewed.
The health risk of the agricultural production in potentially contaminated sites: an environmental-health risk analysis
Authors: Russo Giovanni , Verdiani Giuseppe
Published: December 2012

Rural areas are often interested by pollution phenomena generated by agricultural activities with a high use of pesticides and/or by anthropic activities, such as industrial plants or illegal waste disposal sites, which may cause even long-range contamination. The risk for human health from the pollutants present in the environment can be quantitatively evaluated by the environmental health risk analysis set out in the Italian Legislative Decree no. 152/2006 (Italian Regulation, 2006). This analysis is the best technical-normative tool to estimate the health risks linked to the pollutants present in the environment but it does not consider the specificity of agricultural soils or the contamination of agricultural products. This study aims to provide this missing technical-normative data by identifying and applying a suitable methodology to evaluate the health risk caused by the ingestion of agricultural products grown in contaminated soils. The risk analysis was applied to two contaminated areas in southern Italy using an innovative methodology based on widely accepted parameters for the determination of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) soil-plant bio-transfer factor in the case of horticultural crops. In addition, some concentration limits of PAHs in agricultural soils are proposed that may be of help to the competent authorities (health agencies, local authorities) in delineating the areas requiring strict health surveillance of the food products cultivated.
Testing the shape-similarity hypothesis between particle-size distribution and water retention for Sicilian soils
Authors: Antinoro Chiara , Bagarello Vincenzo , Ferro Vito , Giordano Giuseppe , Iovino Massimo
Published: December 2012

Application of the Arya and Paris (AP) model to estimate the soil water retention curve requires a detailed description of the particlesize distribution (PSD) but limited experimental PSD data are generally determined by the conventional sieve-hydrometer (SH) method. Detailed PSDs can be obtained by fitting a continuous model to SH data or performing measurements by the laser diffraction (LD) method. The AP model was applied to 40 Sicilian soils for which the PSD was measured by both the SH and LD methods. The scale factor was set equal to 1.38 (procedure AP1) or estimated by a logistical model with parameters gathered from literature (procedure AP2). For both SH and LD data, procedure AP2 allowed a more accurate prediction of the water retention than procedure AP1, confirming that it is not convenient to use a unique value of  for soils that are very different in texture. Despite the differences in PSDs obtained by the SH and LD methods, the water retention predicted by a given procedure (AP1 or AP2) using SH or LD data was characterized by the same level of accuracy. Discrepancies in the estimated water retention from the two PSD measurement methods were attributed to underestimation of the finest diameter frequency obtained by the LD method. Analysis also showed that the soil water retention estimated using the SH method was affected by an estimation bias that could be corrected by an optimization procedure (OPT). Comparison of a-distributions and water retention shape indices obtained by the two methods (SH or LD) indicated that the shape-similarity hypothesis is better verified if the traditional sieve-hydrometer data are used to apply the AP model. The optimization procedure allowed more accurate predictions of the water retention curves than the traditional AP1 and AP2 procedures. Therefore, OPT can be considered a valid alternative to the more complex logistical model for estimating the water retention curve of Sicilian soils.
The evolution of a mountain road network from its original use during the First World War to meeting today’s forestry needs: current management
Authors: Cavalli Raffaele , Grigolato Stefano , Pellegrini Marco
Published: December 2012

In some mountain areas of northeastern Italy, the present forest road network has been partially developed using the previous military road network built during the First World War (WW I). The current management of the areas of forest considers the road network essential to provide access for forestry activities, but also to increase the value of recreational activities and tourism related to the historical importance of this area. The aim of the study was to investigate the technical evolution of a mountain road network from the beginning of the last century to today. The research consisted in a preliminary reconnaissance of the original road network using the WW I military maps, a further reconnaissance using the technical maps dated to the 1960s, and the survey of the current road network through the differential global positioning system (D-GPS). The study also aimed to evaluate the current condition of the original road network according to the use made of it today in order to highlight how building standards influenced its evolution in terms of transportation systems and traffic management.
Keratoconjunctivitis associated with nevirapine toxicity in HIV pregnant woman
Authors: Yañez Bety
Published: December 2012

Highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) is the treatment of choice for human immunodeficiency virus-acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV-AIDS) patients. Severe side effects of these drugs have been described that produce generalized autoimmune blistering diseases, such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrosis (TEN). These complications may seriously compromise the patient’s life or cause disabling consequences such as blindness. We describe a case of 21-year old female HIV patient with a CD4 count of 126 cells/microliter. Ten days post elective caesarean delivery she restarted HAART with nevirapine and developed TEN after approximately two weeks. Nevirapine was discontinued, but despite this, ocular surface disorder persisted. She presented severe bilateral keratoconjunctivitis that was treated with free tear substitutes, moxifloxacyn, and prednisolone acethate eye drops. At 2-month follow up her visual acuity without correction was 20/160 in the right eye and 20/40 in the left. She had bilateral moderate cicatricial keratoconjunctivitis and a central corneal leukoma in the right eye. Early treatment is important and should consist of preservative-free lubricants, and amniotic membrane transplantation to decrease the frequency of severe sequelae such as keratitis and corneal leukomas that will reduce the quality of life for these patients.
Indicadores de gestão do fluxo editorial dos periódicos científicos: uma reflexão teórico-metodológica
Authors: Spudeit Daniela , Werlang Elisabete , Presser Nadi Helena
Published: December 2012

Este artigo apresenta uma reflexão teórico-metodológica da construção de indicadores de gestão do fluxo editorial de um periódico científico. O objeto empírico desta pesquisa estendeu sua ação na esfera de atuação da revista científica do Senac/SC. Devido à sua natureza participativa e prática, o estudo foi desenvolvido pela equipe editorial seguindo os pressupostos metodológicos da pesquisa-ação e da pesquisa exploratóriae teve como fonte primária de informações e evidências o Documento de Área de Administração, Ciências Contábeis e Turismo, triênio 2007–2009.Os indicadores propostos descrevem o que e em quais parâmetros avaliar o periódico, na perspectiva de acompanhar o processo de implantação e manutenção deste e de garantir o cumprimento das diretrizes e dos padrões de qualidade estabelecidos pelas instâncias reguladoras.
Ontologia de dependência tecnológica de documentos digitais: instrumento de apoio à preservação digital
Authors: Yamaoka Eloi Juniti , Gauthier Fernando Ostuni
Published: December 2012

Este artigo apresenta o uso da ontologia para modelar a dependência tecnológica de objetos digitais. Na computação e na ciência da informação, ontologia é um artefato que permite a modelagem de conhecimento em algum domínio e possibilitaespecificar um vocabulário para fazer asserções que podem ser utilizadas por software. Para a que possa ser compreensível por humanos, o documento digital exige o uso detecnologia. Essa dependência tecnológica requer um cuidadosoacompanhamentoda obsolescência dessas tecnologias utilizadas para a criação e visualização do documento digital. O ambiente tecnológico de uma organização que faz uso intensivo da tecnologia da informação e comunicação pode ser constituído de milhares de componentes inter-relacionados e a tarefa de verificar o impacto da desativação de determinada tecnologia é muito trabalhosa. Visando reduzir os efeitos desse problema, foi desenvolvida a ontologia DeTec, com o uso da Web OntologyLanguage (OWL). Para a modelagem foi utilizada a plataforma Protégé da Stanford University). A ontologia DeTecé constituída de oito classes principais que permite a identificação de quais tecnologias um objeto digital tem dependência. Essa funcionalidade possibilita evitar a desativação equivocada de uma tecnologia e a consequente perda dos objetos dela dependente.
Serviços de difusão de políticas para o acesso aberto: Sherpa/Juliet, Melibea e ROARMAP
Authors: Costa Michelli , Amaro Bianca , Assis Tainá
Published: December 2012

Aborda os serviços de difusão de políticas para a promoção do acesso aberto à informação científica. A criação dessas políticas é fundamental para que as instituições garantam a aplicação de estratégias que objetivam tornar acessíveis publicações científicas. As instituições de pesquisa são as grandes produtoras de informação. A ampliação dos processos de socialização do conhecimento nesses ambientes colabora para a otimização da comunicação científica. Os serviços de difusão das políticas para têm como objetivo tornar conhecidas as políticas e suas iniciativas. Neste sentido, a análise desses serviços se mostra importante para ampliar o conhecimento a esse respeito, identificando seus benefícios e deficiências de forma que possam ser aprimorados e possam também fundamentar a criação de novos serviços. Foi realizado um estudo comparativo entre os serviços Sherpa/Juliet, Melibea e ROARMAP que gerou um panorama atual do que é oferecido por cada um deles, destacando as suas similaridades e especificidades. Observou-se também, que os referidos serviços cumprem com seus objetivos e oferecem subsídios para criação de novas políticas nesse contexto.
Metadados de qualidade e visibilidade na comunicação científica
Authors: Bentancourt Silvia Maria Puentes , Rocha Rafael Port da
Published: December 2012

Produzir metadados com qualidade é um quesito fundamental para darvisibilidade a revistas eletrônicas, pois o modelo tecnológico atual para revistas de acesso livre na web está focado na interoperabilidade de metadados. Este trabalho investiga a qualidade dos metadados da Revista Eletrônica Em Questão para fins de colheita desses metadados com baseno protocolo OAI-PMH. Realiza a colheita dos metadados da revista no formato Dublin Core, e os analisa a partir dos critérios de qualidade do Modelo de Qualidade de Dados ISO/IEC 25012 e pelas especificações, recomendações e melhores práticas para uso de Dublin Core.Conclui que há qualidade nos elementos Identificador, Idioma, Editor, Fonte, Título, Formato e Descrição. Nos demais, há comprometimentos com a qualidade, principalmente quanto à inconsistência (em Date, Colaborador, Cobertura e Criador, pela falta de critérios para os valores), incompleteza (Colaborador, Cobertura e Tipo, por não ser usado em todos os recursos requeridos) e exatidão (tipo, por conter valores imprecisos ou errados).
Lacustrine mollusc radiations in the Malawi Basin: experiments in a natural laboratory for evolution
Authors: Van Damme D. , Gautier A.
Published: December 2012

Abstract. In Terminal Pliocene-Early Pleistocene times, part of the Malawi Basin was occupied by palaeo-lake Chiwondo. Molluscan biostratigraphy situates this freshwater lake either in the East African wet phase between 2.7–2.4 Ma or that of 2.0–1.8 Ma. In-lake divergent evolution remained restricted to a few molluscan taxa and was very modest. The lacustrine Chiwondo fauna went extinct at the beginning of the Pleistocene. The Modern Lake Malawi malacofauna is poor and descends from ubiquistic South-East African taxa and some Malawi Basin endemics that invaded the present lake after the Late Pleistocene mega-droughts. The Pleistocene aridity crises caused dramatic changes, affecting the malacofauna of all East African lakes. All lacustrine endemic faunas that had evolved in the Pliocene rift lakes, such as palaeo-lake Chiwondo, became extinct. In Lake Tanganyika, the freshwater ecosystem did not crash as in other lakes, but the environmental changes were sufficiently important to trigger a vast radiation. All African endemic lacustrine molluscan clades that are the result of in-lake divergence are hence geologically young, including the vast Lavigeria clade in Lake Tanganyika (ca. 43 species).
External forcings, oceanographic processes and particle flux dynamics in Cap de Creus submarine canyon, NW Mediterranean Sea
Authors: Rumín-Caparrós A. , Sanchez-Vidal A. , Calafat A. , Canals M. , Martín J. , Puig P. , Pedrosa-Pàmies R.
Published: December 2012

Abstract. Atmospheric forcing during 2009–2010 and 2010–2011 winter months showed differences in both intensity and persistence that led to distinct oceanographic responses. Persistent dry northern winds caused strong heat losses (14 211 W m−2) in winter 2009–2010 that triggered a pronounced sea surface cooling compared to winter 2010–2011 (1597 W m−2 lower). As a consequence, a large volume of dense shelf water formed in winter 2009–2010, which cascaded at high speed (up to ∼ 1 m s−1) down Cap de Creus canyon, as measured by current-meters in mooring lines deployed inside the canyon at 300 m and 1000 m water depth. The lower heat losses recorded in winter 2010–2011, together with an increased river discharge, resulted in lowered density waters over the shelf, thus preventing the formation of dense shelf water. Particle fluxes were concurrently measured by using sediment traps at the same mooring stations. High total mass fluxes (up to 84.9 g m−2 d−1) recorded in winter 2009–2010 indicate that dense shelf water cascading resuspended and transported sediments at least down to 1000 m deep within the canyon. Sediment fluxes were lower (28.9 g m−2 d−1) under the quieter conditions of winter 2010–2011. The dominance of the lithogenic fraction in mass fluxes during the two winters points to a resuspension origin for most of the particles transported down canyon. The variability in organic matter and opal contents relates to seasonally controlled inputs associated to the plankton spring bloom during March and April of both years. Our measurements of particle fluxes (including major components and grain size distribution), together with meteorological and oceanographic parameters such as wind speed, turbulent heat flux, near-bottom water temperature, current speed and suspended sediment concentration, during winters 2009–2010 and 2010–2011 along the Cap de Creus submarine canyon, show the important role of atmospheric forcings in transporting particulate matter through the submarine canyon and towards the deep sea.
Aarewassertemperatur und Wetter im Mittelland
Authors: Kaufmann P.
Published: December 2012

Abstract. Die statistische Untersuchung des zeitlichen Temperaturablaufs im Aarewasser und in der Luft zeigt, daß zwischen Fluß- und Lufttemperatur ein eher loser Zusammenhang besteht, welcher nur während sommerlicher Schönwetterperioden eine definierte Form annimmt. Derartige Beziehungen sind im Landschaftsgefüge nicht selten, worauf kurz hingewiesen wird.
Forstwirtschaft im schweizerischen Mittelland : wirtschaftsgeographische Analyse als wirtschaftspolitische Entscheidungsgrundlage
Authors: Boesch M.
Published: December 2012

Abstract. Im vorliegenden Artikel wird eine Untersuchung zusammengefaßt, die vor einiger Zeit im Auftrage eines forstwirtschaftlichen Ingenieurbüros durchgeführt wurde. Diese Studie scheint zu zeigen, da praxisorientierte wirtschaftsgeographische Arbeiten durchaus relevante Grundlagen für wirtschaftspolitische Entscheide abgeben können - eine Tatsache, die nicht nur in akademischen Kreisen bisweilen übersehen wird.
Zur Genese von Badlands in Bolivien
Authors: Graf K.
Published: December 2012

Abstract. Badlands liegen auf dem bolivianischen Altiplano und in den gegen E gerichteten Andendurchbruchstälern. Ihre klimatischen Voraussetzungen und ihr Formenschatz werden diskutiert. Für geomorphologische Prozesse ist die Regenzeit entscheidend, wobei der intensiven Verdunstung Bedeutung zukommt. Überflutung und sofortige Austrocknung wechseln kurzfristig, was allgemein für Tropen typische Kleinformen hervorbringt. Dazu zählen Klein-Canyons, Erdpyramiden, (Quell-) Nischen, Gefällsknicke, Racheln, Kämme und als besonders behandelte Formen Mäander und «strauchbesetzte Deflationskuppen».
La géographie de la perception dans le monde francophone : une perspective historique
Authors: Bailly A. S.
Published: December 2012

Abstract. Behavioral geography in the French speaking world: a historical approach. This paper deals with the origins and the main directions of research in behavioral geography in the French speaking world. Behavioral trends in regional geography, social sciences (such as psychology, semiology, sociology, ethnology and philosophy) and in new geography are analyzed in this historical approach.
Bevölkerungsmobilität im suburbanen Raum : Ergebnisse einer Umfrage in Dällikon ZH
Authors: Troxler J. M.
Published: December 2012

Abstract. Die Befragung mobiler Personen in einer mit öffentlichen Verkehrsmitteln ungenügend erschlossenen, wachstumsintensiven Gemeinde im suburbanen Raum hatte zum Ziel, sowohl die Mobilität des Wohnstandortes als auch diejenige der Pendler hinsichtlich Richtung, Motivation und Strukturen zu untersuchen. Das Wohnstandortverhalten dieser Personen kann mittels eines bestimmten Verhältnisses zwischen absolutem Zwang und völliger Freiwilligkeit erklärt werden. Bei den Wegzügern aus Dällikon konnte ein höherer Grad an externen Zwängen (Kündigung, zu hohe Miete, schlechte Bauqualität der Wohnung usw.) als bei den Zuzügern festgestellt werden. Bei diesen überwiegen die Gründe, die familiären oder persönlichen Charakter haben, vor allem der Auszug aus dem Elternhaus oder die Verheiratung. Daraus kann gefolgert werden, daß von wohnsitzmobilen Personen Dällikon vor allem während der ersten Phase der Familiengründung oder des gemeinsamen Zusammenlebens als Wohnort gewählt wird. Der Anteil der zugezogenen Personen mit früherem Wohnsitz in Zürich entspricht mit über 20% etwa der von boustedt (1980) in München festgestellten Zahl, während die von der Peripherie zum Zentrum hinzielende Richtung relativ unbedeutend ist: Nur 8% aller weggezogenen Personen nahmen in der Stadt Zürich Wohnsitz. Der größte Teil der Wohnsitzverlagerungen fand innerhalb der suburbanen Gemeinden der Agglomeration Zürich statt. Die Situation der Pendlermobilität widerspiegelt klar die ungünstigen Verhältnisse bei den Verkehrsverbindungen zu den Arbeitsorten. Wenn von 62 befragten Personen nur gerade 7 die öffentlichen Verkehrsmittel benutzen, die restlichen Pendler also mit Auto oder Motorrad an ihre Arbeitsstelle fahren, wäre es an der Zeit, alternative Verkehrskonzepte zu erarbeiten und notwendige Verbesserungen vorzunehmen. Für mehr als ein Drittel der befragten Pendler sind nämlich die schlechten Verbindungen mit öffentlichen Verkehrsmitteln der Hauptgrund, um mit Auto oder Motorrad zum Arbeitsplatz zu fahren. Das neue Buskonzept, welches ab Juni 1984 eingeführt werden soll, wird zeigen, ob ein Teil der Pendler bereit ist, auf öffentliche Verkehrsmittel umzusteigen.