bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transplantation of cryopreserved human umbilical cord blood-derived endothelial progenitor cells induces recovery of carotid artery injury in nude rats
Authors: Yin Yangguang , Liu Huanyun , Wang Fangjuan , Li Lufeng , Deng Mengyang , Huang Lan , Zhao Xiaohui
Published: March 2015

Introduction

Transplantation of endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) restores endothelial function in patients with endothelial dysfunction and initial denudation. The goal of the present study was to determine the effect of cryopreserved human umbilical cord blood (UCB)-derived EPC infusion on the repair of carotid artery injury in nude rats.

Methods

Mononuclear cells (MNCs) from human cryopreserved UCB and peripheral blood (PB) of patients with cardiovascular diseases and healthy volunteers were cultured in a conditioned medium. The in vitro migration, proliferation, adhesion, and survival capacities, as well as paracrine cytokine release of EPCs were investigated. EPC homing, induced reendothelialization, and the effect on neointima formation were also assessed in vivo.

Results

Patient-derived PB EPCs (PPB-EPCs) displayed decreased migration, proliferation, adhesion, and survival capabilities as compared to PB-EPCs from healthy volunteers (HPB-EPCs) and cryopreserved UCB-EPCs. However, there was no difference in the release of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and stromal cell derived factor 1 (SDF-1) between the three groups. Two weeks after transplantation, more labeled UCB-EPCs and HPB-EPCs than PPB-EPCs were found by cell tracking in the injury zone. Administration of PPB-EPCs, HPB-EPCs, and UCB-EPCs enhanced reendothelialization and inhibited neointima formation compared to the saline control. However, UCB-EPC and HPB-EPC infusion showed a greater improvement than PPB-EPCs.

Conclusions

Cryopreserved UCB-MNCs derived EPCs and HPB-EPCs show better responses to cytokines and vascular injury than PPB-EPCs. Thus, cryopreservation and delivery of cryopreserved autogenous UCB-EPCs or HPB-EPCs may be a promising vasculoprotective approach for patients with multiple cardiovascular risk factors.
CCR5 facilitates endothelial progenitor cell recruitment and promotes the stabilization of atherosclerotic plaques in ApoE−/− mice
Authors: Zhang Zhongwen , Dong Jianjun , Lobe Corrinne G , Gong Peiyun , Liu Ju , Liao Lin
Published: March 2015

Introduction

Unstable atherosclerotic plaques are prone to rupture, which leads to atherothrombosis. Endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) are bone marrow-derived precursor cells that may repair vascular injury in atherosclerosis. Chemokine (C-C motif) receptor 5 (CCR5) promotes mobilization of EPCs. In this study, we investigated the therapeutic potential of CCR5-overexpressing EPCs on plaque stabilization in an apolipoprotein E (ApoE)−/− mouse model.

Methods

The expression of CCR5 and its cognate ligand chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 5 (CCL5) was examined in atherosclerotic aortas of humans and mice by immunohistochemistry. Splenectomized ApoE−/− C57BL/6 J mice fed a high-fat diet for 24 weeks were intravenously injected with EPCs transfected with CCR5 overexpression lentivirus. The recruitment of EPCs over the atherosclerotic plaques was evaluated by immunofluorescence. The content of lipid, smooth muscle cells, monocytes/macrophages, and endothelial cells in atherosclerotic plaques was assayed by specific immunostaining. The serum levels of atherosclerosis-related inflammatory factors in ApoE−/− mice were measured by mouse atherosclerosis antibody array I.

Results

CCR5 and CCL5 are highly expressed in atherosclerotic plaques in both humans and mice. The ApoE−/− mice with CCR5-overexpressing EPC treatment demonstrated a more stable plaque formation with enhanced recruitment of EPC, reduced lipid, and macrophage content in the atherosclerotic plaques. CCR5-overexpressing EPC treatment also increased the content of endothelial cells and nitric oxide production in the plaques. In addition, the serum levels of interleukin-3 (IL-3), IL-5, IL-6, IL-13, CD40, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha and the plaque contents of IL-6 and matrix metalloproteinase-9 were reduced in mice with CCR5-overexpressing EPC treatment.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that CCR5 is a novel therapeutic target in EPC treatment for stabilization of atherosclerotic plaques.
Large-scale expansion of Wharton’s jelly-derived mesenchymal stem cells on gelatin microbeads, with retention of self-renewal and multipotency characteristics and the capacity for enhancing skin wound healing
Authors: Zhao Guifang , Liu Feilin , Lan Shaowei , Li Pengdong , Wang Li , Kou Junna , Qi Xiaojuan , Fan Ruirui , Hao Deshun , Wu Chunling , Bai Tingting , Li Yulin , Liu Jin Yu
Published: March 2015

Introduction

Successful stem cell therapy relies on large-scale generation of stem cells and their maintenance in a proliferative multipotent state. This study aimed to establish a three-dimension culture system for large-scale generation of hWJ-MSC and investigated the self-renewal activity, genomic stability and multi-lineage differentiation potential of such hWJ-MSC in enhancing skin wound healing.

Methods

hWJ-MSC were seeded on gelatin microbeads and cultured in spinning bottles (3D). Cell proliferation, karyotype analysis, surface marker expression, multipotent differentiation (adipogenic, chondrogenic, and osteogenic potentials), and expression of core transcription factors (OCT4, SOX2, NANOG, and C-MYC), as well as their efficacy in accelerating skin wound healing, were investigated and compared with those of hWJ-MSC derived from plate cultres (2D), using in vivo and in vitro experiments.

Results

hWJ-MSC attached to and proliferated on gelatin microbeads in 3D cultures reaching a maximum of 1.1–1.30 × 107cells on 0.5 g of microbeads by days 8–14; in contrast, hWJ-MSC derived from 2D cultures reached a maximum of 6.5 -11.5 × 105 cells per well in a 24-well plate by days 6–10. hWJ-MSC derived by 3D culture incorporated significantly more EdU (P < 0.05) and had a significantly higher proliferation index (P < 0.05) than those derived from 2D culture. Immunofluorescence staining, real-time PCR, flow cytometry analysis, and multipotency assays showed that hWJ-MSC derived from 3D culture retained MSC surface markers and multipotency potential similar to 2D culture-derived cells. 3D culture-derived hWJ-MSC also retained the expression of core transcription factors at levels comparable to their 2D culture counterparts. Direct injection of hWJ-MSC derived from 3D or 2D cultures into animals exhibited similar efficacy in enhancing skin wound healing.

Conclusions

Thus, hWJ-MSC can be expanded markedly in gelatin microbeads, while retaining MSC surface marker expression, multipotent differential potential, and expression of core transcription factors. These cells also efficiently enhanced skin wound healing in vivo, in a manner comparable to that of hWJ-MSC obtained from 2D culture.
Recurrent hypoglycaemia in type 2 diabetic patient due to hypothyroidism
Authors: Kumar Alok
Published: March 2015

Objective

To present a case report of recurrent hypoglycaemia in type 2 diabetic patient due to hypothyroidism.

Methods

We describe a case with type 2 diabetes who complained of episodes of recurrent hypoglycaemia in last few weeks. We also discuss the results of the diagnostic workup done to find out the cause of recurrent hypoglycaemia.

Result

After ruling out common causes like overdosing of oral hypoglycaemic agents or insulin, renal or hepatic impairment we found overt hypothyroidism as a cause of recurrent hypoglycaemia. Levothyroxine therapy was started in this patient. Upon normalization of thyroid function, patient did not further experience any episodes of hypoglycaemia. We did not find any report on hypothyroidism as a cause of recurrent hypoglycaemia in type 2 diabetic patients.

Conclusion

We conclude that during workup, clinicians should take hypothyroidism into consideration as a potential cause of hypoglycaemia in type 2 diabetic patients.
Mycoplasma detection and elimination are necessary for the application of stem cell from human dental apical papilla to tissue engineering and regenerative medicine
Authors: Kim Byung-Chul , Kim So Yeon , Kwon Yong-Dae , Choe Sung Chul , Han Dong-Wook , Hwang Yu-Shik
Published: March 2015

Background

Recently, postnatal stem cells from dental papilla with neural crest origin have been considered as one of potent stem cell sources in regenerative medicine regarding their multi-differentiation capacity and relatively easy access. However, almost human oral tissues have been reported to be infected by mycoplasma which gives rise to oral cavity in teeth, and mycoplasma contamination of ex-vivo cultured stem cells from such dental tissues and its effect on stem cell culture has received little attention.

Results

In this study, mycoplama contamination was evaluated with stem cells from apical papilla which were isolated from human third molar and premolars from various aged patients undergoing orthodontic therapy. The ex-vivo expanded stem cells from apical papilla were found to express stem cell markers such as Stro-1, CD44, nestin and CD133, but mycoplama contamination was detected in almost all cell cultures of the tested 20 samples, which was confirmed by mycoplasma-specific gene expression and fluorescence staining. Such contaminated mycoplasma could be successfully eliminated using elimination kit, and proliferation test showed decreased proliferation activity in mycoplasma-contaminated cells. After elimination of contaminated mycoplasma, stem cells from apical papilla showed osteogenic and neural lineage differentiation under certain culture conditions.

Conclusion

Our study proposes that the evaluation of mycoplasma contamination and elimination process might be required in the use of stem cells from apical papilla for their potent applications to tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.
Experiment study of pore structure effects on velocities in synthetic carbonate rocks
Authors: Wang Zizhen , Wang Ruihe , Wang Feifei , Qiu Hao , Li Tianyang
Published: March 2015

Carbonate rocks have a complex pore structure, show strong heterogeneity, and have a wide range of velocities that lead to more complicated velocity-porosity relationships compared with sandstones. We designed and prepared 72 carbonate synthetic cores with known pore structures according to the control variate principle. We measured the P- and S-wave velocities of these cores by an ultrasonic pulse transmission method, analyzed the effects of the pore aspect ratio (AR) and pore size [Formula: see text] on velocities, and compared the experimental results with predictions of effective medium theories (EMTs). The matrix of our synthetic cores was consolidated mixture of carbonate cuttings and epoxy. We randomly imbedded predesigned penny-shaped silicone disks or expandable polystyrene balls into the matrix during the core preparation process to simulate secondary pores. The experimental results indicated that Han’s empirical linear velocity-porosity relation was a good prediction for cores with only interparticle pores. Secondary pores played an important role in the velocity variation of carbonates. Cores with a larger AR had faster velocities. Different ARs could lead to velocity variations as high as [Formula: see text] at a given porosity. When the wavelengths [Formula: see text] were larger than the pore size, cores with larger secondary pores found higher velocities under the same pore shape, pore fluid, and porosity condition. Different pore sizes could contribute to nearly 15% velocity variation at a given porosity. The comparison between our measurements and EMT predictions indicated that for carbonate rocks with a complicated pore structure, the self-consistent model gave more reliable predictions when the secondary pore size was relatively small ([Formula: see text]) and Kuster and Toksoz formulations as well as the differential effective medium model gave more satisfactory results when the secondary pore size was relatively large ([Formula: see text], or even smaller).
Structure-constrained relative acoustic impedance using stratigraphic coordinates
Authors: Karimi Parvaneh
Published: March 2015

Acoustic impedance inversion involves conversion of seismic traces to a reflection coefficient time series and then into acoustic impedance. The usual assumption for the transformation of poststack seismic data into impedance is that seismic traces can be modeled using the simple convolutional model. According to the convolutional model, a seismic trace is a normal-incidence record, which is an assumption that is strictly true only if the earth structure is composed of horizontal layers. In the presence of dipping layers, such an assumption is violated, which introduces bias in the result of impedance inversion. I implemented impedance inversion in the stratigraphic coordinate system, in which the vertical direction is normal to the reflectors and seismic traces represent normal-incidence seismograms. Tests on field data produced more accurate and detailed impedance results from inversion in the stratigraphic coordinate system, compared to impedance results using the conventional Cartesian coordinate system.
Integrated reservoir characterization for understanding in situ combustion process in Balol heavy oil field, India
Authors: Vedanti Nimisha , Yerramilli Sanjay Surya , Yerramilli Ramesh Chandra , Sen Mrinal K. , Srivastava Ravi Prakash , Vadapalli Uma
Published: March 2015

We carried out an integrated reservoir characterization to model a heavy oil reservoir called Balol located in the heavy oil belt of Mehsana in the western state of Gujarat in India. The Oil and Natural Gas Corporation of India was the field operator. The operator adopted in situ combustion process in northern part of Balol because of high-mobility contrast between oil and water. However, the performance review carried out by the operator found that oil recovery from this field was not as per prediction. Hence, serious attempts were made to interpret 3D seismic data to map the reservoir efficiently. We integrated the information derived from 3D time-lapse seismic data with the well logs provided by the operator to explain the movement of thermal front tracked using time-lapse seismic data. To model the reservoir, flow unit and electrofacies characterization was also carried out, and four to five FUs with conduits and baffles to flow were identified. Electrofacies analysis identified three major reservoir facies. These analyses also revealed that Balol reservoir was layered and heterogeneous with depth. Further, in addition to 3D seismic data, well logs and empirical equations were used to generate porosity, water saturation, and permeability models for the entire reservoir. Thus, a reservoir model with heterogeneous distribution of petrophysical properties was generated. We observed a high permeability trend in the northwest direction at injection wells, which could be governing the movement of thermal fronts in the reservoir.
Detecting fold structures at the southern flank of the Neogene Vienna Basin in eastern Austria using near-subsurface geophysical methods
Authors: Chwatal Werner , Häusler Hermann , Kreutzer Ingrid , Scheibz Jürgen , Steirer Friedrich
Published: March 2015

At the southern flank of the Vienna Basin, spectacular fold structures were exposed in the former Steinbrunn sand pit. The succession of Upper Pannonian age consists of decimeter- to meter-thick sandy, silty, and clayey beds, which are overlain by sandstone beds. Previously, these fold structures have been interpreted differently as of tectonic but also gravitational origin. To gain a more detailed insight into the 3D distribution and orientation of the folds, high-resolution geophysics such as electrical resistivity tomography (ERT), ground-penetrating radar (GPR), and electromagnetics (EM) were applied for mapping the subsurface in the surroundings of the sand pit. The EM results found that the uppermost layer was more clayey northwest and sandier southeast of the sand pit. To directly compare ERT and GPR results with the lithology of the fold structures observed in the sand pit, reference profiles behind the wall of the sand pit were performed. Both methods clearly revealed fold structures parallel to the folded Pannonian strata of the outcrop. Although the GPR data displayed boundaries between sandy and clayey sediments, and thus clearly imaged the fold geometry of the succession, the resistivities in the ERT profiles portrayed a smoother image. Almost all GPR profiles revealed wavelike structures with axes in the southeastern direction and dome-shaped structures with axes in the southwestern direction, deepening toward the west. This pattern was comparable with the sections of rounded buckle folds, which underlie almost the entire investigation area of approximately [Formula: see text] in size. Compared with fold structures as documented from a neighboring abandoned coal mine, the geophysical investigations around the Steinbrunn sand pit supported the hypothesis of a tectonic origin, formed by simple buckling of a planar surface and its confining volume along the southeastern flank of the Vienna Basin in Plio/Pleistocene times.
Insect navigation: do ants live in the now?
Authors: Graham Paul , Mangan Michael
Published: March 2015

Visual navigation is a critical behaviour for many animals, and it has been particularly well studied in ants. Decades of ant navigation research have uncovered many ways in which efficient navigation can be implemented in small brains. For example, ants show us how visual information can drive navigation via procedural rather than map-like instructions. Two recent behavioural observations highlight interesting adaptive ways in which ants implement visual guidance. Firstly, it has been shown that the systematic nest searches of ants can be biased by recent experience of familiar scenes. Secondly, ants have been observed to show temporary periods of confusion when asked to repeat a route segment, even if that route segment is very familiar. Taken together, these results indicate that the navigational decisions of ants take into account their recent experiences as well as the currently perceived environment.
Six degree-of-freedom analysis of hip, knee, ankle and foot provides updated understanding of biomechanical work during human walking
Authors: Zelik Karl E. , Takahashi Kota Z. , Sawicki Gregory S.
Published: March 2015

Measuring biomechanical work performed by humans and other animals is critical for understanding muscle–tendon function, joint-specific contributions and energy-saving mechanisms during locomotion. Inverse dynamics is often employed to estimate joint-level contributions, and deformable body estimates can be used to study work performed by the foot. We recently discovered that these commonly used experimental estimates fail to explain whole-body energy changes observed during human walking. By re-analyzing previously published data, we found that about 25% (8 J) of total positive energy changes of/about the body's center-of-mass and >30% of the energy changes during the Push-off phase of walking were not explained by conventional joint- and segment-level work estimates, exposing a gap in our fundamental understanding of work production during gait. Here, we present a novel Energy-Accounting analysis that integrates various empirical measures of work and energy to elucidate the source of unexplained biomechanical work. We discovered that by extending conventional 3 degree-of-freedom (DOF) inverse dynamics (estimating rotational work about joints) to 6DOF (rotational and translational) analysis of the hip, knee, ankle and foot, we could fully explain the missing positive work. This revealed that Push-off work performed about the hip may be >50% greater than conventionally estimated (9.3 versus 6.0 J, P=0.0002, at 1.4 m s−1). Our findings demonstrate that 6DOF analysis (of hip–knee–ankle–foot) better captures energy changes of the body than more conventional 3DOF estimates. These findings refine our fundamental understanding of how work is distributed within the body, which has implications for assistive technology, biomechanical simulations and potentially clinical treatment.
Geochemical Characteristics of Shale Gas in Xiasiwan Area, Ordos Basin
Authors: Wu Wei , Dong Dazhong , Yu Cong , Liu Dan
Published: March 2015

Well head gas samples from nine shale gas wells in Xiasiwan area were collected to examine their geochemical characteristics through analyzing their composition, carbon and hydrogen isotopes, and light hydrocarbon. The study shows the shale gas from Yanchang Formation is wet gas from primary cracking of sapropelic kerogen, and the shale system, still a closed system, has expelled only small amount of gas, and thermal maturity is the paramount factor restricting shale gas exploration; the shale gas from Shanxi Formation is dry coal-derived gas from secondary cracking, characterized by isotope reversal and δ13C2 of less than −29‰, which proves that the ethane's carbon isotope of coal-derived gas can be very low in high or over mature stage. A similar isotope “rollover” phenomenon in shale gas has also been observed in conventional gas of the Ordos Basin, so it is concluded that the gas in Lower Paleozoic is coal-derived gas and the 13C light ethane is the result of secondary cracking instead of mixing with oil-associated gas. Analysis of some indexes (such as δ13C1, δ13C2–δ13C1 and light hydrocarbon) shows that the recoverable resources of shale gas in the mature stage are overestimated.
A Computational Design Framework Supporting Human Interaction with Environmentally-Responsive Building Envelopes
Authors: Krietemeyer Bess , Andow Brandon , Dyson Anna
Published: March 2015

Emerging materials present opportunities to fundamentally shift current expectations of dynamic building envelope functionality towards systems that can respond to occupant needs while meeting the energy demands of buildings. In order to assess the environmental, social, and architectural opportunities that are increasing with responsive building envelopes, new tools are needed to simulate their multi-performance capabilities. This paper describes a computational design framework to support human interaction with environmentally-responsive electroactive dynamic daylighting systems. The objective is to develop algorithms for variable solar control and visible transmittance that simultaneously address occupant preferences for visual effects and interaction. Results demonstrate that energy performance and user satisfaction are not mutually exclusive and can be co-optimized. The effectiveness and limitations of the computational framework in assessing strategies to balance environmental performance and human interaction are discussed. Conclusions present areas of ongoing work that integrate multi-user interactions and immersive visualization techniques with multiscalar energy modeling tools.
Εκχώρηση γης σε μικρούς αγρότες -παροίκους την εποχή των Παλαιολόγων
Authors: ΜΑΤΘΑΙΟΥ Μαρία
Published: March 2015

Το θέμα της παραχώρησης προνομίων έχει συζητηθεί επανειλημμένως. Λιγότερο γνωστή είναι η εκχώρηση γης σε μικρούς αγρότες, που αποσκοπούσε στην αύξηση της καλλιεργήσιμης γης. Αντικείμενο της παραχώρησης ήταν συνήθως σπόριμη γη και οι αγρότες που ευνοήθηκαν κατοικούσαν κυρίως σε χωριά της Μακεδονίας αλλά και στην περιοχή της Κωνσταντινούπολης και στη Λήμνο. Συμπεραίνω ότι στους αγρότες παραχωρήθηκε η κυριότητα της γης, εφόσον για τη γη αυτή οι αγρότες πλήρωναν φόρο. Η πιο πάνω ενέργεια θα έπρεπε να ενταχθεί στην ευρύτερη κρατική πολιτική που εφάρμοσαν οι Παλαιολόγοι και που αποσκοπούσε στην παραχώρηση προνομίων, τα οποία παρότρυναν τους υπηκόους να αξιοποιήσουν κατά το δυνατόν τους υφιστάμενους φυσικούς πόρους και κυρίως, να επιδοθούν στην καλλιέργεια της γης προκειμένου να αναπληρωθεί το κενό που δημιουργήθηκε με την απώλεια των ανατολικών επαρχιών.  
Observations of membrane fusion in a liposome dispersion: the missing fusion intermediate?
Authors: Foldvari Marianna
Published: March 2015

Early intermediate structures of liposome-liposome fusion events were captured by freeze-fracture electron microscopic (EM) technique. The images show the morphology of the fusion interface at several different stages of the fusion event. One of the intermediates was captured at a serendipitous stage of two vesicles’ membranes (both leaflets) merging and their contents starting to intermix clearly showing the fusion interface with a previously unseen fusion rim. From the morphological information a hypothetical sequence of the fusion event and corresponding lipid structural arrangements are described.
Case Report: A 54 base pair inactivating mutation of LHCGR in a 28-year old woman with poor ovarian response
Authors: Cheemakurthi Ravi Krishna , Achyuta Rama Raju Gottumukkala , Sivanaryana Thota , Madan Kalagara , Murali Krishna Kota , Sudhakar Godi
Published: March 2015

The luteinizing hormone/choriogonadotropin (LH/CG) receptor plays an important role in male and female infertility. Many studies have demonstrated that mutations at specific sites in LHCGR gene may result in mild or complete loss of receptor function. Insertions in exon-1 of LHCGR gene were first studied in male Leydig cell hypoplasia and later extended to female reproductive disorders. Previous studies have shown that these insertions play an important role  in  intrauterine insemination (IUI) and in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcome. Here we report a 54bp insertion in a 28-year old woman with infertility, recurrent cyst formation and failed stimulated IUI cycles. As the patient showed a blunted response to the ovarian stimulation and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) stimulation test,  follicle stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR) and luteinizing hormone/choriogonadotropin (LHCGR) gene sequencing was performed. Gene sequence analysis revealed a 54bp homozygous insertion (GCTGCTGAAGCTGCTGCTGCTGCTGCAGCTGCTGAAGCTGCTGCTGCTGCTGCA) in the exon-1 of LHCGR gene. This mutation might have caused a decrease in receptor function in the present infertile patient, thus resulting in poor ovarian response.
The Effect of a Wellness Program on Nutritional and Diet Knowledge, Exercise and Weight Control Knowledge, and Weight Control of Schizophrenia.
Authors: Ko Kyung Hee , Chung Myung Sill , Kim Jung Hee
Published: March 2015

PURPOSE: This research was conducted to compare the effect of a wellness program on nutrition and diet knowledge, exercise and weight control knowledge, and weight control of schizophrenia patients. METHODS: A nonequivalent control group pretest-posttest design was used for this study. A total of 34 patients were randomly divided into the experimental group (17) and the control group (17). The experimental group received about 1 hour of a nutrition and diet knowledge intervention for 6 weeks and about 1 hour of an exercise and weight control knowledge intervention for another 6 weeks, while the control group received the usual care. The outcome variables were measured before and after the program. Data were analyzed by t-test using SPSS/WIN 14.0. RESULTS: The experimental group showed significant improvement in nutrition and diet knowledge, exercise and weight control knowledge, and reduction in body weight. CONCLUSION: The wellness program was effective on increasing nutrition and diet knowledge, exercise and weight control knowledge, and decreasing body weight of schizophrenia patients.
A Study on Gender-role Identity and Cyber Delinquency in High School Students.
Authors: Lee Jong Hwa , Kim Kyung Hee , Choi Mi Hye , Kim Hee Young , Oh Geum Sook , Kim Ki Sook
Published: March 2015

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to explore gender-role identity and cyber delinquency in high school students. METHODS: Data were collected through self-administered questionnaires and analyzed by descriptive statistics, t-test, and ANOVA. The data survey was conducted with 1,208 conveniently selected high school students in Seoul, Gyung-gi and Chung-chung province. RESULTS: The cyber delinquency score was 38.94 and androgyny gender role identity was most common (34.0%). There were significant differences in cyber delinquency by academic year, gender, school record, economic status, educational background of parents, experiences of smoking, drinking, runaway, and gender-role identity. According to gender-role identity, the masculinity group showed highest cyber delinquency and the undifferentiated, androgyny, and femininity groups followed respectively. CONCLUSION: These findings are expected to make a contribution to creation of ideal interventions and to help discover early stage cyber delinquency in high school students as approached by gender role identity.
Celebrate the values of St George
Authors: Neville Sarah
Published: March 2015

He was a Roman soldier, who slew the dragon, saved a town and rescued a princess. He is England's patron saint and his legendary story embodies charity, courage and chivalry.
Oh, a life on the ocean wave…
Authors: Sargent Marianne
Published: March 2015

In this extract from Planning for Learning Through Pirates [Practical Pre-School Books] we explore activities based on the foundation stage areas of learning, with a pirate's life theme.
Anxiety, fear, frustration and stress in cats and dogs — Implications for the welfare of companion animals and practice finances
Authors: Hargrave Claire
Published: March 2015

Incompatibility between the behaviour of companion cats and dogs and the behavioural expectations of their owners/caregivers remains the most common reason for the euthanasia, abandonment or re-homing of companion animals. In the absence of behavioural guidance from the veterinary team regarding their companion animal's emotional and behavioural development, owners are unlikely to assist pets to develop coping strategies that are compatible with owner expectations. As a result, the majority of young animals find themselves relying on innate, adaptive survival skills to deal with their exposure to anxiety, fear and frustration. This article discusses the resulting frequent or chronic stress experienced by companion animals, both in the home and in the veterinary practice, and the associated implications for animal health and welfare. The handling and restraint of such animals creates considerable difficulties for practice staff, and when pet–human relationships break down to such an extent that pets are relinquished, practices lose substantial income. A second article will examine the practicalities of handling the stressed patient.
Pathophysiology of acute kidney injury
Authors: Bird Louise , Walker David
Published: March 2015

This series of four articles explores the pathophysiology and treatment of chronic kidney disease (CKD) and acute kidney injury (AKI). We review the causes of CKD and AKI, the treatment options and possible secondary complications. CKD and AKI are both relatively common in general practice, and early identification and appropriate management may improve the outcome of patients with these conditions. This third article focuses on the pathophysiology of AKI.
Spirocerca lupi — a potential future problem for pets travelling to Europe
Authors: Wright Ian
Published: March 2015

The spiruoid roundworm Spirocerca lupi has long been considered to be a pathogen of tropical and sub-tropical regions, but there is a lack of awareness of its presence in Europe as a whole, and of the risks it may pose to dogs travelling to Europe from the UK. This article considers the distribution, pathological significance, diagnosis, treatment and control of this parasite in relation to pets travelling abroad
Guidance on secret filming for families
Authors: Learner Sue
Published: March 2015

Surveillance in care homes is an issue of continuing contention. With this in mind, the Care Quality Commission has published new guidance that offers advice to families considering this option
Communication and sharing information: managing medicines
Authors: Turner Steve
Published: March 2015

Steve Turner reflects on the communication challenges facing nursing and residential homes around implementing the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines and quality standards, and offers some practical advice
Playing the guessing game: a risky business?
Authors: Bernstein Adam
Published: March 2015

While it's becoming clearer when general elections will be held, what grows murkier as they approach is what the different parties actually stand for. Adam Bernstein sheds some much-needed light on the business-related issues that could affect those who run care homes
‘Calling time’ on poor adult social care
Authors: Frankova Helena
Published: March 2015

Our article this month considers what special measures imposed on social care by the Care Quality Commission might look like and how it will ultimately close poor providers
Driving whole–school literacy
Authors: Owen Lorna
Published: March 2015

With so many pupils not speaking English at home, literacy was proving a key barrier to achievement at Lorna Owen's school. She discusses the action taken to tackle this problem
Contact improvisation as an art of relating: The importance of touch for building positive interaction
Authors: Jussilainen Anna
Published: March 2015

This article analyses the specific characteristics of Contact Improvisation (CI) that can support building positive interaction and well-being in community contexts. It examines the possibilities of the dance form to widen attitudes towards touch and to build skills in touching and communication, also with people experiencing difficulties with touch. CI practice proposes a different way of being and relating to people, challenging normative behaviour and creating communal feelings by emphasizing togetherness and connectedness. It can have many positive effects, including enhancing awareness and encouraging playfulness and mutual support, as well as increasing the joy of life, as demonstrated in my study with professionals and women in vulnerable positions. The article also suggests that, although the potential for negatively experienced touch needs attention in CI practice and in society at large, building skills and awareness in qualities of how to touch can reduce such experiences. In terms of currently acceptable modes of touching in contemporary culture, touching in particular ways can also be seen as political, suggesting a strong potential influence of dancing on everyday life.
Movement in the Men’s Movement: Contact improvisation and social change
Authors: Curtis Jess
Published: March 2015

During the 1970s and continuing through to the 1990s, a significant number of American men participated in activities that became collectively recognized as a ‘Men’s Movement’. Nearly simultaneously the development of Contact Improvisation (CI), questioned many of the gender roles in traditional dance, allowing for a much broader range of physical interaction for both men and women. This article looks at intersections between these two ‘movements’ and argues that CI and related body-based performance practices were, and can continue to be, significant tools for social change.
Body-mapping and the Human Spirograph: Performance drawing in Thirdspace
Authors: Chittenden Tara
Published: March 2015

In performance drawing, the dancing body performs within particular kinds of spaces, leaving physical trace marks behind on surfaces such as plastic sheeting or paper. In this article I analyse Tony Orrico’s performance of 8 Circles (2010) to question the relationship between lived body and graphite mark. I draw on Soja’s theory of Thirdspace (1996) to rethink performance drawing as a bridge between different types of knowledge. This understanding of performance drawing reveals liminal spaces of heightened sensory and motor awareness where body, graphite and movement plane combine to become reflections on a body’s energetic flows, manifest as a body-map of somatic practice.
Interview with independent dance artist Cecilia Macfarlane
Authors: Meehan Emma , Macfarlane Cecilia
Published: March 2015

In this interview, independent dancer Cecilia Macfarlane talks about her project with the Japanese Contemporary Dance Network (JCDN) in 2013. To date, Macfarlane has undertaken eight trips to Japan, primarily to introduce her community dance practice to Japanese artists. However, during her visit in 2013, she was invited to learn folk dances from the north-east of Japan, in the Tohoku region most affected by the earthquake and tsunami in 2011. The interview is movingly interwoven with Macfarlane’s experience of losing her son. The sudden devastation following his death is described by Macfarlane as a ‘personal tsunami’, which is discussed alongside the loss and destruction wrought in Japan by earthquake, tsunami and nuclear devastation. In this way, autobiographical material is brought to bear on understanding the experiences of the survivors and to contribute to the development of Macfarlane’s artistic process alongside the project.
Reflections on somatic learning processes in higher education: Student experiences and teacher interpretations of Experiential Anatomy into Contemporary Dance
Authors: Glaser Laura
Published: March 2015

This article sets out to interpret documented experiences of students studying contemporary dance through the introduction of experiential anatomy. Processes of their learning build the basis for this evaluation, which is motivated by the teacher’s interest in the validity of a somatic approach to learning dance in 18+ pre-professional dance artists. In the immersive experience of learning experientially, reflection is integrated in the process and provides opportunities for meaning making. It also offers data for analysis: documents – which include drawings, journal entries and interviews – act as a feedback to the teacher and to the subject within this educational environment. Interwoven in the following article are student responses to somatic learning methods and processes, their experiences of embodiment and insights regarding the development of each student as a dancer, artist, person and learner.
Sensing possibility: Anatomy, sensation and dancing
Authors: Jenvey Nicole
Published: March 2015

This article discusses the question of bodily change in a research-based dance practice. The research was led by my admiration for certain dancers and their particular qualities of dancing, and my desire to bring other ways of moving into my body when I dance. Whilst anatomy forms the basis for conceptualizing processes of change, sensations are also the tools for and the subject of investigation as well as being evidence of or in research. Thus, I introduce the concept of ‘dancer’s anatomy’, my term for the combination of sensation, imagination and anatomical knowledge through which I consciously work on my dancing. In addition, a piece of choreography called Thematic, by Russell Dumas, together with my understanding of his practice, acts as a further research element that could be thought of as a kind of ‘control’ in the study. The research design called for repetition of this phrase over a two-year period such that the changes that were occurring in the body could be seen as those that occurred as a result of the dancing processes, and not as changes in the ‘choreography’. The article also documents how anatomy, dance movement and sensation mutually transform each other.
Soma in the City: How does listening and responding to a ‘somatic podcast’ affect one’s relationship to urban space?
Authors: Biggs Korina
Published: March 2015

This article describes a small piece of research carried out as part of an MA in Dance and Somatic Well–being at the University of Central Lancashire.

The basis of the research was: a) An interest in bridging the gulf between somatic perceptual/movement practice and being in a challenging urban environment. b) Curiosity in how using digital technology can possibly create more, rather than less, connection to psychophysical self and environment.

It assumed embodied person–environment mutuality and reciprocity, and was influenced by ecopsychology, the value of attending to movement, and by the somatic practices, particularly the Alexander Technique. The research methodology is influenced by Moustakas’ heuristic approach and involved an embodied first–person practice–led development of the content of the podcast. There were six participants and research ‘data’ was drawn from the time we shared together ‘post–podcast’. Conclusions were drawn from extracting themes from the subjective experience of the individuals.
The touch of sound: Dalcroze Eurhythmics as a somatic practice
Authors: Greenhead Karin , Habron John
Published: March 2015

Dalcroze Eurhythmics is a rich and multifaceted, living practice that has developed a wide range of applications and pedagogical approaches during more than a century of endeavour. Most researchers have situated this work within music education, dance and theatre history and therapy of various kinds. In this article we argue that it may also be considered a somatic practice owing to the ways in which movement, space, sensation, presence, touch and improvisation are central to the method. While recognizing that not all somatic practices include touch and improvisation, we focus on these aspects to explore the notion of the haptic nature of vision and sound, as they are manifest in the Dalcroze class. Drawing on practical examples of widespread practice within the Dalcroze community as well as personal experiences, we assert that the touch-like nature of sound not only makes contact with the body, inciting physical and emotional movement, but also develops awareness of self, others and environment due to the social nature of musical participation in general and of the rhythmics class in particular.
Comparative efficacy of Albendazole, Fenbendazole and Levamisole against gastrointestinal nematodiasis in cattle of Bangladesh
Authors: Islam Monirul , Islam Siddiqul , Howlader Matiar , Lucky Nasrin
Published: March 2015

Out of 52 cattle 30 were heavily infested with different gastrointestinal nematodes which were identified by faecal examination. Among 30 cattle 20 were selected randomly and divided into four groups (A, B, C and D). Group D was kept as infected control group. Group A, B and C were treated with patent drug Albendazole (Helmex-vetÂ® 600 mg/Tab) 7.5, Fenbendazole (PeraclearÂ® 250 mg/bolus) 7.5 and Levamisole (RalnexÂ® 708 mg/bolus) 7.5 mg/kg body weight orally for the determination of effects on blood parameters. Before trials with Helmex-vetÂ®, PeraclearÂ® and RalnexÂ® initial total egg count of gastrointestinal helminths and haematological parameters were examined and recorded. During the experimental period the faecal samples were examined on 7th, 14th, 21st and 28th day. Haematological parameters (TEC, Hb, ESR, TLC and PCV) were also examined from 7 to 28 days for the determination of effects of Helmex-vetÂ®, PeraclearÂ® and RalnexÂ®. A significant reduction of EPG of gastrointestinal nematodes were found on 7th, 14th, 21st and 28th day of Helmex-vetÂ® (46.91%, 72.84%, 84.44% and 93.58%), PeraclearÂ® (46.67%, 71.67%, 83.33% and 90.56%) and RalnexÂ® (49.27%, 72.82%, 93.93% and 85.80%) of group A, B and C respectively. The EPG of untreated group were significantly increased about 3.37%, 6.75%, 8.13% and 9.69% on 7th, 14th, 21st and 28th day respectively. After treatment with Helmex-vetÂ®, PeraclearÂ® and RalnexÂ®, TEC, Hb, TLC and PCV were increased and ESR were decreased in cattle. On the other hand, TEC, Hb, TLC and PCV were decreased and ESR was increased significantly (p<0.05) in untreated group.
On discontinuous groups acting on (ℍ2n+1r × ℍ2n+1r)/Δ
Authors: Baklouti Ali , Ghaouar Sonia , Khlif Fatma
Published: March 2015

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Die Studie „Nutzungsmonitoring für Bibliotheken“: Hintergrund, Verlauf und Ergebnisse
Authors: Hardtke-Flodell Charlotta , Puchta Thomas
Published: March 2015

Jede/r dritte Berliner/in über 14 Jahre ist aktive/r Nutzer/in den Öffentlichen Bibliotheken Berlins. In einer repräsentativen Stichprobe der Berliner Bevölkerung sind über 2.000 Berliner und Berlinerinnen zu Nutzungsmotiven und Zufriedenheit mit den Öffentlichen Bibliotheken in Berlin befragt worden. Weiterhin sind in 68 Bibliothekseinrichtungen über 14.000 aktive Bibliotheksnutzer/innen vor Ort und online nach ihren Nutzungsmotiven, Aktivitäten in der Bibliothek und ihrer Zufriedenheit mit Medienbereitstellung, Veranstaltungen, Räumlichkeiten und der IT-Infrastruktur befragt worden.
Gesellschaftliche Teilhabe durch Öffentliche Bibliotheken
Authors: Hermann Elisa
Published: March 2015

Öffentliche Bibliotheken bieten als konsumfreier Ort für alle Bevölkerungsschichten niedrigschwelligen Zugang zu Information, Bildung und Unterhaltung. Ihre Angebote spielen heute eine wichtige Rolle bei der Förderung und Unterstützung in der Medienkompetenz. Dieser Artikel untersucht insbesondere, inwieweit Bibliotheken eine gesellschaftliche Teilhabe für immobile Personen und Bevölkerung in weniger entwickelten Gebieten ermöglichen. Grundlage dafür sind die Ergebnisse der Studie „Nutzungsmonitoring in Öffentlichen Bibliotheken“, einem Projekt der Öffentlichen Bibliotheken in Berlin (NuMoB-Studie).
Staats- und Universitätsbibliothek Bremen: Online-Benutzerbefragung 2013
Authors: Bodem Claudia
Published: March 2015

Die Staats- und Universitätsbibliothek Bremen führte im Januar 2013 eine Online-Benutzerbefragung durch. Der Beitrag stellt die Befragung vor, fasst die Ergebnisse zusammen und beschreibt erste Auswirkungen auf die Serviceangebote sowie die Gestaltung der Benutzungsbereiche der Bibliothek.
Bibliothekskundenbefragung in der neu eröffneten gemeinsamen Fachbibliothek für Volkswirtschaftslehre der Universität zu Köln
Authors: Zeiger-Schmidt Petra
Published: March 2015

Dieser Artikel schildert eine Kundenbefragung in der neu eröffneten VWL-Bibliothek der Universität zu Köln. Die Vorstellungen und Hypothesen der Bibliothekare sollten mit denen der Kunden verglichen werden. Die Umfrage wurde im Juli 2014 durchgeführt, die Ergebnisse in einer Bachelorarbeit analysiert und dargestellt. Den Hintergrundinformationen zur Bibliothek folgen Angaben über die Erstellung des Fragebogens und die Durchführung der Umfrage. Die Ergebnisse werden zusammengefasst dargestellt. Handlungsempfehlungen und Antworten der Mitarbeiter auf die Ergebnisse werden zum Abschluss aufgezeigt.
ekz-Kundenbefragung 2014: Bibliotheken wählen ihre Zukunftsrollen
Authors: Mittrowan Andreas
Published: March 2015

Die ekz.bibliotheksservice GmbH führt seit 2009 regelmäßige Online-Kundenbefragungen durch. Der Beitrag stellt die Ziele und Ergebnisse der Untersuchung 2014 dar und beschreibt die Resultate einer Sonderauswertung zum Thema „Zukunftsrollen öffentlicher Bibliotheken“ im internationalen Kontext. Abschließend werden auf den bisherigen Erfahrungen basierende, generelle Empfehlungen für die Gestaltung von Kundenbefragungen gegeben.
Atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome: from diagnosis to treatment
Authors: Franchini Massimo
Published: March 2015

Thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) is a relatively rare condition but a medical urgency requiring immediate intervention to avoid irreversible organ damage or death. Symptoms on presentation include microangiopathic haemolytic anaemia, thrombocytopenia and organ damage. The most frequent direct causes of TMA are thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) and haemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). The most common form of HUS is related to Shiga toxin producing