bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Introducing Resources in Oil Spill Trajectory Modeling – Contingency Analysis
Authors: Ranieri A. , Viana C. , de Castro Lyra A. , Lutz G. , Petry M. , de Andrade F. , dos Santos F. , Pellegrini Júlio C.
Published: June 2013

In Brazil, the decision of the minimum amount of resources to be used in response operations are guided by the requirements established in the national legislation and the optimal is advised by oil spill response specialists.

Important instrument to orient the determination of strategies and resources in Oil Spill Response Plans is the oil trajectory modeling, which shows the region that can be covered by the spill and the locations likely to be achieved in different seasonal conditions.

Meanwhile, this modeling normally considers the drafting of the total spill volume without the action of any contingency procedure, which does not reflect a real emergency situation.

The main objective of this proposal is to evaluate an oil spill trajectory modeling that covers this gap and allows a better preparation of the oil & gas companies to deal with oil spill incidents.

The oil trajectory modeling (probabilistic and deterministic) suggested by this paper proposal will be made through the MEMW (Marine Environmental Modeling Workbench), a computational tool developed by SINTEF which includes OSCAR (Oil Spill Contingency and Response) model.

This model, developed for calculating the dispersion of oil slick, is composed by weathering and trajectory models in three dimensions and it can assess the progress of the oil in the water surface and water column considering the influence of the main strategies used during an oil spill response.

The process to evaluate and test the tool will comprise two main steps: (a) parameter sensitive analysis to determine relative importance of factors in each strategy provided in the model (containment and recovery, chemical dispersant); (b) assessment of the different strategies, capacities and locations of resources in cases of oil spills at sea, through the analysis of different incident scenarios.

The main result expected for this tool is study and select, case-by-case, the best combination of oil spill response strategies and the optimal amount and distribution of resources, according to the particularities of the project.

Therefore, the tool will contribute to improve the emergency response plans, increasing its reliability and efficiency, as well as provide a procedure for costs optimization.
A Study of Rollover Occupant Injury Mitigation Using Dynamic Testing To Evaluate Alternative Protection Systems
Authors: Bozzini S. , Jimenez J. , Friedman D.
Published: June 2013

Since the onset of automotive safety awareness over 60 years ago the only rollover protection solution to be widely acknowledged and used in the E & P Industry has been the traditional internal roll cage. These traditional roll cages have become out-of-date and in recent testing are shown to be ineffective at the A-Pillar and windshield header.

An all-encompassing study of rollover accidents has shown that this old technology is not the best way to mitigate injury. Understanding "Real World" rollover crashes and how injuries occur is instrumental in pinpointing the key areas of the vehicle’s roof structure that require improvement. Our study included over 500 "Real World" rollover crash investigations and over 300 rollover crash tests performed with innovative dynamic testing using the Jordan Rollover System (JRS).

Over the past decade automobile manufacturers have improved roof strength and added computer controlled driver assistance measures to avoid crashes. Still, the need exists for a majority of the common SUV’s, Ute’s, Vans, and buses to use an aftermarket solution. This study illuminates the deficiencies in internal and other ROPS enabling HSE Managers to make more informed decisions when choosing a system. The goal of ROPS today should be to protect occupants without interfering with OEM safety systems.

Our investigation shows that rollovers producing serious to fatal injuries are characterized by a vehicle crash that includes rolling with forward pitch. In this circumstance, injury occurs when; vehicles roof strength is low, the geometry of the vehicle is poor including a large major radius, the structure of the roof is open section and/or the windshield header is weak. These crash characteristics show the importance of reinforcement at the A-Pillar and forward roof header. Traditional roll cages do not protect this area of the vehicle as shown in the new testing included in this paper.

The E & P Industry is spending millions of dollars annually on occupant protection systems that are not offering the best protection for their workforce. New technologies in current vehicles and research advances in the design and approach to protection systems can reduce overall costs without sacrificing protection.
Obesity in the Oil and Gas Industry Population
Authors: França A. M. , Frigotto G. , Celly J. J.
Published: June 2013

Excess weight has reached epidemic proportions globally, with more than 1 billion adults either overweight or obese. The health implications of being overweight are numerous. Studies show that the risk of death increases by 20% to 40% among overweight people and that being overweight reduces life expectancy by up to nine years (and by three years for those overweight at age 40).

A study was conducted by an oilfield services company with operations in Brazil regarding the negative trend in the progressive increase of body mass index (BMI) among its employees. A random group of 1,000 employees in that country whose certificates of occupational health (known in Brazil as ASOs) had been evaluated over the last three years was analyzed.

The study results show an increase in the number of overweight employees and support the conclusion that more emphasis needs to be placed on the obesity issue by occupational health experts through addressing it during the periodic physical examinations for employees and building employee awareness on the issue.

The study showed that overweight employees develop a higher rate of metabolic syndrome conditions (such as hypertension and diabetes) than individuals in the normal weight range. Obesity results in poor health and reduced quality of life for the individual as well as lost work time. Being even slightly overweight can lead to even more serious health conditions.

On the basis of the findings, the paper discusses the importance of periodic occupational medical check-ups and why they should be conducted for all employees. Occupational health experts can then better evaluate employees and help them prevent the consequences associated with being overweight.

The year-round health and education initiatives that the company has established are also discussed. Implemented to inspire employees to stay in shape through healthy eating habits and exercise, these initiatives help contributing to a healthier and more productive workforce.
The Challenges for the Treatment of Drilling Fluid Wastes Generated by E&P Industry in Brazil
Authors: Santos G. B. , Veloso J.
Published: June 2013

The activity of oil and gas exploitation in Brazil demands a significant infrastructure for provision of goods and services in order to support these activities. Most of Brazilian gas and oil reservoirs are concentrated in offshore sedimentary basins, mainly in ultra-deep waters, which increases the degree of risks involved in the drilling operations, necessitating the use of drilling fluids in order to maintain the integrity of the formation drilled, thus minimizing these related operational risks.

Drilling fluids are products formulated of a combination of different chemical compounds using water or oil as the main dispersant media or a synthetic specific dispersant media. The final fluid composition will depend on the characteristics and behavior of the reservoir to be drilled. The main purpose of the drilling fluids is transportation of the cuttings to the surface, sub surface pressure control and well stabilization. After use the drilling fluids and cuttings are treated on the offshore facility in order to evaluate the disposal possibilities, whether they can be discharged at sea or should be sent onshore to receive the appropriate treatment. In the environmental sphere the aspects due to the drilling fluids use, treatment and disposal are regulated by IBAMA (Brazilian Institute of Environment and Renewable Natural Resources), which defines standards for discharge to the sea, parameters to be evaluated, tests to be carried out before and after use, and criteria for their disposal (overboard or onshore) depending on analysis results.

This study aims to describe the process adopted for treatment of drilling fluids in offshore drilling units, the requirements for discharging them to the sea, the onshore logistics for treatment and disposal, the forms of treatment currently available in Brazil, and additionally suggesting the adoption of new technologies that enable the recovery of the constituents of the drilling fluids with the aim of reusing them in further industrial processes.
Validation of a Biological Monitoring Design in Highly Diverse Tropical Forests
Authors: Caro K. , Enriquez E. , Juscamayta E. , Oyague E. , Cabrera J. , Chung C. , Ahumada C. , Watson A. , Videla C.
Published: June 2013

Biological monitoring programs provide data and information for decision making and to ensure the resources protection. However, in tropical ecosystems that are home to most of the planet's biodiversity these programs need to be improved in design and implementation.

As part of the Environmental Management Plan "Environmental Impact Assessment for the 2D-3D Seismic Program and drilling of 22 exploratory wells in Kinteroni, Mapi and Mashira – Block 57" (Peru), we develop a Biological Monitoring Plan to keep track of potential biological changes (temporal and spatial scale) caused by the project activities to identify the need for corrective actions or to define new measures for unforeseen impacts. Temporarily, the activities of the monitoring plan depend on the stages of the project (construction, operation and closure), meanwhile they correspond spatially to factors that may cause effects on the flora and fauna.

Block 57 is located in the Amazon rain forest of southern Peru; this is an ecosystem with limited information. Seeking a scheme to support exploration activities, It has been designed a systematic biological monitoring program, based on a gradient of disturbance caused by the clarification of an area. This design is intended to identify the variables that are most sensitive to the effect of exploration activities in forests with similar features and comparable seasons.

The design is being implemented in exploratory platforms of Block 57 located in the buffer zones of the Ashaninka and Machiguenga Communal Reserves and Otishi National Park, covering the three stages of the drilling process, and evaluating spatially flora and arthropods to smaller scale (≤ 150 m from the edge of the deforested area) and birds, small mammals and reptiles at the mesoscale (≤ 600 m from the edge of the deforested area), in the area around the cleared area.

The information generated, besides determining the parameters used to assess the level of impacts on local wildlife generated during the drilling, helps to evaluate the effectiveness of appropriate sampling methodologies and optimizes logistics; looking forward to replicate this design in other tropical ecosystems.
Mini-Review Article – Current Opinion on Salivary Biomarkers as a Measurement for Stress and Fatigue
Authors: Yi Ting Chun , Moochhala Shabbir
Published: June 2013

Salivary biomarkers have been increasingly popular in stress research as saliva is easily produced and collection
is non-invasive and not limited by geographical distance or lack of infrastructure. Several salivary biomarkers have
been utilized in stress research, for instance, salivary cortisol, salivary amylase and salivary immunoglobulin A. Despite
being sensitive to changes in fatigue, they have limitations such as inter-individual variability, and interactions with other
constituents that may confound the results. Recently, Hyperion Biotechnology has developed the Fatigue Biomarker Index
(FBI), which is a measurement of the changes in concentration of salivary peptides with fatigue. The FBI has been shown
to be an accurate and objective biomarker of fatigue, and has huge potential for use in various fields and industries.

This article will review some of the previous and current salivary biomarkers of stress, as well as critically appraise the
new salivary peptide test in terms of its accuracy, application and access.
Beyond the Child's Voice: Towards an Ethics for Children's Participation Rights
Authors: I'Anson John
Published: June 2013

This article begins by identifying some of the reasons why children are marginalised in adult social and theoretical contexts. Western styles of thinking, whether of a liberal or post-structuralist persuasion, install what the anthropologist Tim Ingold refers to as a ‘logic of inversion’ that variously complicates, translates and blocks possibilities for the actualisation of children's participation rights. A key strategy to redress the child's social exclusion has been attending to ‘the child's voice’ in both political and research contexts. Whilst this has led to children's voices becoming heard and innovations in research methods, the extent to which the definition of ‘the child's voice’ steers clear of the difficulties identified in the first part of this article is questionable. A significant concern is the extent to which researchers, as authors of texts, reinscribe adult interests in the crafting of ‘the child's voice’ as it appears in their writing. Having problematised some of the ways in which ‘the child's voice’ has been mobilised in research, the article then addresses some of the ethical responsibilities for adults in moving beyond these limitations. Taking up such responsibility, it is argued, involves new forms of ethical practice that acknowledge the other's subjectivity and the limits of knowing that this implies, together with writing practices that interrupt the appropriation and colonisation of the child's experience.
New Kids on the Block: Young People, the City and Public Pedagogies
Authors: Hickey Andrew , Phillips Louise
Published: June 2013

In March 2012, Contact Inc., a community cultural development organization based in Brisbane, Australia, launched the project ‘Walking Neighbourhood: hosted by children’. This project sought to engage young people in the negotiation of a large urban space, as well as provoke an awareness of child actualization by challenging existing understandings of the role young people play as active citizens. By asking a group of children, aged between eight and twelve, to navigate their way through a large urban space and subsequently lead a curated tour of this space for groups of participant adults, Walking Neighbourhood unsettled existing notions of child safety, the place of children within the city and assumptions surrounding young people as cognizant, active citizens. This article will explore the implications of the Walking Neighbourhood project and how renewed understandings of young people's capacities to navigate urban spaces as active citizens might form.
Research with, by, for and about Children: Lessons from Disaster Contexts
Authors: Gibbs Lisa , Mutch Carol , O'Connor Peter , MacDougall Colin
Published: June 2013

There is a need for critically informed studies that include children's perspectives on the role of children in disaster contexts, given the increased incidence of disasters resulting from the global forces of climate change. Three case studies are presented from two different disaster contexts in Australia and New Zealand, where the notion of child empowerment fits within the broader political culture of liberal democracy. Each of these case studies promotes children's right to participate, consistent with the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC). In attempting to provide opportunities for children to articulate their perspective on disaster, this study recognizes the manner in which the increased prevalence and scale of disasters may further complicate and distort possibilities for the actualization of children's participation rights. In doing so the authors recommend a theory-informed approach, including recognizing the complementarity of competing theories of childhood, and advocate for children's capacity and right to participate in decision-making which affects their lives. This article promotes these concepts while still recognizing their right to safety. It also demonstrates how the use of distancing and framing provides a safe space for child involvement within disaster-related research, and provides examples of appropriate methodologies to engage children and provide opportunities for meaningful contributions. Finally, implementation partnerships are discussed as a means of embedding the research within existing supported environments.
Research with Indigenous Children and Young People in Schools: Ethical and Methodological Considerations
Authors: Wilson Katie , Wilks Judith
Published: June 2013

The involvement of young Indigenous people in research is a key emphasis in current approaches to both sociology of childhood and Indigenous research. This article discusses how the two research methodologies, both of which emphasise participation rights, intersect in research focusing on the participation and perspectives of Indigenous children and young people in education. The article examines ethical requirements of Indigenous and childhood research and institutional ethics procedures, along with methodological considerations, potential constraints and opportunities in undertaking research that aims to facilitate children and young people's participation. Drawing on empirical data it discusses how these processes have shaped participative research studying the views of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students learning Indigenous knowledge and perspectives in New South Wales schools.
[The Transformation of Participation? Exploring the Potential of ‘Transformative Participation’ for Theory and Practice around Children and Young People's Participation
Authors: Tisdall E. Kay M.
Published: June 2013

A wave of interest, policy and activities in children and young people's participation has passed through many countries over recent years. As participation activities have proliferated, so have challenges arisen as people have sought to translate the rhetoric of children and young people's participation into realities. Working across collaborators in Brazil, India, South Africa and the United Kingdom, this article draws on the collaboration's interest in ‘transformative participation’ as a potential way forward. The article begins with reviewing the growth of this concept within development studies, including its ties with empowerment. The article seeks to go further, to consider other potential concepts and theories that may critique or add to ideas of ‘transformative participation’: namely the concept of ‘co-production’; and ideas of performance and multimodal pedagogy. The article discusses the potential for co-production to recognize children and young people's assets, capabilities and abilities, and to facilitate deeper engagement in service and policy development. The potential of performance-as-participation is more testing, valorising different ways of participation and communication, emphasizing creativity, affect and embodiment rather than rationality and governance. Such ideas may have equal, or even more potential, for ‘transformative participation’.
Glucokinase Activation Ameliorates ER Stress–Induced Apoptosis in Pancreatic β-Cells
Authors: Shirakawa Jun , Togashi Yu , Sakamoto Eri , Kaji Mitsuyo , Tajima Kazuki , Orime Kazuki , Inoue Hideaki , Kubota Naoto , Kadowaki Takashi , Terauchi Yasuo
Published: June 2013

The derangement of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) homeostasis triggers β-cell apoptosis, leading to diabetes. Glucokinase upregulates insulin receptor substrate 2 (IRS-2) expression in β-cells, but the role of glucokinase and IRS-2 in ER stress has been unclear. In this study, we investigated the impact of glucokinase activation by glucokinase activator (GKA) on ER stress in β-cells. GKA administration improved β-cell apoptosis in Akita mice, a model of ER stress–mediated diabetes. GKA increased the expression of IRS-2 in β-cells, even under ER stress. Both glucokinase-deficient Akita mice and IRS-2–deficient Akita mice exhibited an increase in β-cell apoptosis, compared with Akita mice. β-cell–specific IRS-2–overexpressing (βIRS-2-Tg) Akita mice showed less β-cell apoptosis than Akita mice. IRS-2–deficient islets were vulnerable, but βIRS-2-Tg islets were resistant to ER stress–induced apoptosis. Meanwhile, GKA regulated the expressions of C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP) and other ER stress–related genes in an IRS-2–independent fashion in islets. GKA suppressed the expressions of CHOP and Bcl2-associated X protein (Bax) and protected against β-cell apoptosis under ER stress in an ERK1/2-dependent, IRS-2–independent manner. Taken together, GKA ameliorated ER stress–mediated apoptosis by harmonizing IRS-2 upregulation and the IRS-2–independent control of apoptosis in β-cells.
Teplizumab Preserves C-Peptide in Recent-Onset Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Hagopian William , Ferry Robert J. , Sherry Nicole , Carlin David , Bonvini Ezio , Johnson Syd , Stein Kathryn E. , Koenig Scott , Daifotis Anastasia G. , Herold Kevan C. , Ludvigsson Johnny ,   for the Protégé Trial Investigators
Published: June 2013

Protégé was a phase 3, randomized, double-blind, parallel, placebo-controlled 2-year study of three intravenous teplizumab dosing regimens, administered daily for 14 days at baseline and again after 26 weeks, in new-onset type 1 diabetes. We sought to determine efficacy and safety of teplizumab immunotherapy at 2 years and to identify characteristics associated with therapeutic response. Of 516 randomized patients, 513 were treated, and 462 completed 2 years of follow-up. Teplizumab (14-day full-dose) reduced the loss of C-peptide mean area under the curve (AUC), a prespecified secondary end point, at 2 years versus placebo. In analyses of prespecified and post hoc subsets at entry, U.S. residents, patients with C-peptide mean AUC >0.2 nmol/L, those randomized ≤6 weeks after diagnosis, HbA1c <7.5% (58 mmol/mol), insulin use <0.4 units/kg/day, and 8–17 years of age each had greater teplizumab-associated C-peptide preservation than their counterparts. Exogenous insulin needs tended to be reduced versus placebo. Antidrug antibodies developed in some patients, without apparent change in drug efficacy. No new safety or tolerability issues were observed during year 2. In summary, anti-CD3 therapy reduced C-peptide loss 2 years after diagnosis using a tolerable dose.
Total Mortality by Elevated Transferrin Saturation in Patients With Diabetes
Authors: Ellervik Christina , Andersen Henrik Ullits , Tybjærg-Hansen Anne , Frandsen Merete , Birgens Henrik , Nordestgaard Børge G. , Mandrup-Poulsen Thomas
Published: June 2013

OBJECTIVE

It is not known to what extent iron overload predicts prognosis in patients with diabetes after diagnosis or whether iron overload is a risk factor independent of the HFE genotype. We investigated total and cause-specific mortality according to increased transferrin saturation (≥50 vs. <50%), whether mortality is driven by the HFE genotype, and whether early measurement of transferrin saturation helps to predict mortality outcome.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Cohort 1 included patients with late-onset type 1 diabetes (n = 716) with a cross-sectional measurement of transferrin saturation and HFE genotype. Cohort 2 included consecutively recruited patients with any diabetes (n = 6,120), transferrin saturation measurement at referral, and HFE genotype if transferrin saturation was above 50%.

RESULTS

In cohort 1, the hazard ratio for total mortality was 2.3 (95% CI 1.3–3.9; P = 0.002) and for cause-specific mortality by neoplasms was 5.8 (2.4–14; P = 0.00007) in patients with transferrin saturation ≥50 vs. <50%. Excluding genotypes C282Y/C282Y and C282Y/H63D gave similar results. The hazard ratio for total mortality was 4.0 (1.2–13; P = 0.01) and for cause-specific mortality by neoplasms was 13 (3.6–49; P = 0.0001) in patients with C282Y/C282Y versus wild type. In cohort 2, total mortality was not different in patients with transferrin saturation ≥50 vs. <50%. In patients with late-onset type 1 diabetes and transferrin saturation ≥50%, the hazard ratio for total mortality was 0.4 (0.2–0.9; P = 0.03) in cohort 2 versus cohort 1.

CONCLUSIONS

Increased transferrin saturation and HFE genotype C282Y/C282Y predict total mortality in patients with late-onset type 1 diabetes, and increased transferrin saturation after diagnosis is an independent risk factor. Early measurement of transferrin saturation in these patients leading to early intervention improves life expectancy.
Clinical and Economic Benefits Associated With the Achievement of Both HbA1c and LDL Cholesterol Goals in Veterans With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Shi Lizheng , Ye Xin , Lu Mei , Wu Eric Q. , Sharma Hari , Thomason Darren , Fonseca Vivian A.
Published: June 2013

OBJECTIVE

This study compared the clinical and economic benefits associated with dual-goal achievement, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) <7% (53 mmol/mol) and LDL cholesterol (LDL-C) <100 mg/dL, with achievement of only the LDL-C goal or only the HbA1c goal in veterans with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This retrospective cohort analysis evaluated electronic medical records (Veterans Integrated Service Network 16) in adult T2DM patients with two or more measurements of LDL-C and HbA1c between 1 January 2004 and 30 June 2010 (N = 75,646). Cox proportional hazards models were used to compare microvascular and cardiovascular outcomes by goal achievement status; generalized linear regression models were used to assess diabetes-related resource utilization (hospitalization days and number of outpatient visits) and medical service costs.

RESULTS

Relative to achievement of only the LDL-C goal, dual-goal achievement was associated with lower risk of microvascular complications (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 0.79), acute coronary syndrome (0.88), percutaneous coronary intervention (0.78), and coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) (0.74); it was also associated with fewer hospitalization days (adjusted incidence rate ratio [aIRR] 0.93) and outpatient visits (0.88), as well as lower diabetes-related annual medical costs (−$130.89). Compared with achievement of only the HbA1c goal, dual-goal achievement was associated with lower risk of the composite cardiovascular-related end point (aHR 0.87) and CABG (aHR 0.62), as well as fewer outpatient visits (aIRR 0.98).

CONCLUSIONS

Achieving both HbA1c and LDL-C goals in diabetes care is associated with additional clinical and economic benefits, as compared with the achievement of either goal alone.
Triethylene Glycol Dimethacrylate Induction of Apoptotic Proteins in Pulp Fibroblasts
Authors: Batarseh G , Windsor LJ , Labban NY , Liu Y , Gregson K
Published: June 2013

Objective

Monomers such as triethylene glycol dimethacrylate (TEGDMA) can leach from dental composites. TEGDMA-induced apoptosis in human pulp has been reported. However, the apoptotic (pro or anti) proteins involved in this process remain unclear. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine which apoptotic proteins are enhanced or suppressed during TEGDMA-induced apoptosis.

Materials and Methods

Human pulp fibroblasts (HPFs) were incubated with different TEGDMA concentrations (0.125-1.0 mM) and cytotoxicity was determined. TEGDMA was shown to be cell cytotoxic at concentrations of 0.50 mM and higher. The highest concentration with no significant cytotoxicity was then incubated (0.25 mM TEGDMA) with the HPFs. Cell lysates were then prepared and the protein concentrations determined. Human Apoptosis Array kits were utilized to detect the relative levels of 43 apoptotic proteins.

Results

HPFs exposed to TEGDMA showed significant increases in multiple pro-apoptotic proteins such as Bid, Bim, Caspase 3, Caspase 8, and Cytochrome c at 24 hours. Some anti-apoptotic proteins were also altered.

Conclusions

The results indicated that TEGDMA activates both the extrinsic and intrinsic apoptotic pathways.
Administration of Ascorbic Acid to Prevent Bleaching-induced Tooth Sensitivity: A Randomized Triple-blind Clinical Trial
Authors: de Paula EA , Kossatz S , Fernandes D , Loguercio AD , Reis A
Published: June 2013

This study evaluated the effect of ascorbic acid, 500 mg every eight hours, on bleaching-induced tooth sensitivity. A triple-blind, parallel design, and placebo-controlled randomized clinical trial was conducted on 39 adults. The pills (placebo or ascorbic acid) were administered three times per day for 48 hours; the first dose was given one hour prior to each bleaching session. Two bleaching sessions with 35% hydrogen peroxide gel were performed with a one-week interval. Tooth sensitivity was recorded up to 48 hours after bleaching. The color evaluation was performed before and 30 days after bleaching. The absolute risk and intensity of tooth sensitivity were evaluated by Fisher exact and Mann-Whitney U-tests, respectively. Color changes were evaluated by unpaired t-test (α=0.05). There were no significant differences in the absolute risk and intensity of tooth sensitivity and color change between the groups. Both groups showed a similar risk of tooth sensitivity (p>0.05). The perioperative use of an antioxidant, such as ascorbic acid (500 mg, three times daily) perorally, was not able to prevent bleaching-induced tooth sensitivity or reduce its intensity.
Effect of Pre-reacted Glass-ionomer Filler Extraction Solution on Demineralization of Bovine Enamel
Authors: Asano K , Kawamoto R , Iino M , Fruichi T , Nojiri K , Takamizawa T , Miyazaki M
Published: June 2013

Objective

To determine the effect of pre-reacted glass-ionomer (PRG) filler extraction solution on the demineralization of bovine enamel by measuring changes in the ultrasound transmission velocity.

Methods

The specimens were prepared by cutting bovine teeth into enamel blocks. The specimens were immersed in buffered lactic acid solution for 10 minutes twice a day, and then stored in artificial saliva. Other specimens were stored in PRG filler extraction solution for 10 minutes, followed by 10-minute immersion in the buffered lactic acid solution twice a day. The propagation time of longitudinal ultrasonic waves was measured by a pulser receiver. Six specimens were used for each condition, and analyses of variance followed by Tukey tests (α=0.05) were done.

Results

No changes in sonic velocity were found for specimens stored in the PRG filler extraction solution, indicating that the PRG extraction solution had an effect on inhibiting the demineralization of bovine enamel.

Conclusions

The results obtained with the use of an ultrasound measurement technique suggested that PRG filler extraction solution has the ability to prevent demineralization of enamel.
Effect of underwater treadmill exercise on postural sway in horses with experimentally induced carpal joint osteoarthritis
Authors: King Melissa R. , Haussler Kevin K. , Kawcak Christopher E. , McIlwraith C. Wayne , Reiser II Raoul F.
Published: June 2013

Objective—To evaluate the effect of underwater treadmill exercise on static postural sway in horses with experimentally induced carpal joint osteoarthritis under various stance conditions.

Animals—16 horses.

Procedures—On day 0, osteoarthritis was induced arthroscopically in 1 randomly selected middle carpal joint of each horse. Beginning on day 15, horses were assigned to either underwater or overground (without water) treadmill exercise at the same speed, frequency, and duration. Two serial force platforms were used to collect postural sway data from each horse on study days −7, 14, 42, and 70. Horses were made to stand stationary on the force platforms under 3 stance conditions: normal square stance, base-narrow placement of the thoracic limbs, and removal of visual cues (blindfolded) during a normal square stance. The mean of 3 consecutive, 10-second trials in each condition was calculated and used for analysis.

Results—Displacement of the center of pressure differed significantly depending on the stance condition. Among horses exercised on the underwater treadmill, postural stability in both the base-narrow and blindfolded stance conditions improved, compared with findings for horses exercised on the overground treadmill. Horses exercised on the overground treadmill were only successful at maintaining a stable center of pressure during the normal square stance position.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Variations in stance position had profound effects on the mechanics of standing balance in horses with experimentally induced carpal joint osteoarthritis. Underwater treadmill exercise significantly improved the horses’ postural stability, which is fundamental in providing evidence-based support for equine aquatic exercise.
Modulation of inflammation and oxidative stress in canine chondrocytes
Authors: Dycus David L. , Au Angela Y. , Grzanna Mark W. , Wardlaw Jennifer L. , Frondoza Carmelita G.
Published: June 2013

Objective—To determine whether oxidative stress could be induced in canine chondrocytes in vitro.

Sample—Chondrocytes obtained from healthy adult mixed-breed dogs.

Procedures—Harvested chondrocytes were maintained at 37°C with 5% CO2 for 24 hours. To assess induction of oxidative stress, 2 stimuli were used: hydrogen peroxide and a combination of interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). To determine the effect of hydrogen peroxide, a set of chondrocyte-seeded plates was incubated with control medium alone or hydrogen peroxide (100, 200, or 300μM) for 24 hours. For inhibition of oxidative stress, cells were incubated for 24 hours with N-acetylcysteine (NAC; 10mM) before exposure to hydrogen peroxide. Another set of chondrocyte-seeded plates was incubated with control medium alone or with IL-1β (10 ng/mL) and TNF-α (1 ng/mL) for 24 hours. Supernatants were obtained for measurement of prostaglandin E2 production, and cell lysates were used for measurement of superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and reduced-glutathione (GSH) concentration.

Results—Chondrocytes responded to the oxidative stressor hydrogen peroxide with a decrease in SOD activity and GSH concentration. Exposure to the antioxidant NAC caused an increase in SOD activity in hydrogen peroxide–stressed chondrocytes to a degree comparable with that in chondrocytes not exposed to hydrogen peroxide. Similarly, NAC exposure induced significant increases in GSH concentration. Activation with IL-1β and TNF-α also led to a decrease in SOD activity and increase in prostaglandin E2 production.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Canine chondrocytes responded to the oxidative stress caused by exposure to hydrogen peroxide and cytokines. Exposure to oxidative stress inducers could result in perturbation of chondrocyte and cartilage homeostasis and could contribute to the pathophysiology of osteoarthritis. Use of antioxidants, on the other hand, may be helpful in the treatment of arthritic dogs.
Comparative assessment of left ventricular function variables determined via cardiac computed tomography and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging in dogs
Authors: Sieslack Anne K. , Dziallas Peter , Nolte Ingo , Wefstaedt Patrick
Published: June 2013

Objective—To evaluate the accuracy and reproducibility of left ventricular (LV) volumetric and function variables determined via contrast-enhanced cardiac CT and cardiac MRI in healthy dogs.

Animals—10 healthy Beagles.

Procedures—Cardiac MRI and cardiac CT were performed in anesthetized Beagles; both examinations were conducted within a 2-hour period. Cardiac MRI was performed with a 3.0-T magnet, and contrast-enhanced cardiac CT was performed with a 64-row detector CT machine. Data sets were acquired during apnea with simultaneous ECG gating. Short-axis images were created to determine functional variables via the Simpson method.

Results—Cardiac CT values for mean end-diastolic and end-systolic LV volumes had excellent correlation (r = 0.95) with cardiac MRI measurements, whereas LV stroke volume (r = 0.67) and LV ejection fraction (r = 0.75) had good correlations. The only variable that differed significantly between imaging modalities was end-diastolic LV volume. For each pair of values, Bland-Altman analysis revealed good limits of agreement.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—The 3-D modalities cardiac CT and cardiac MRI were excellent techniques for use in assessing LV functional variables. Similar results were obtained for LV volume and function variables via both techniques. The major disadvantage of these modalities was the need to anesthetize the dogs for the examinations.
The Quebec Convergence and Canadian Life Satisfaction, 1985–2008
Authors: Barrington-Leigh Christopher P.
Published: June 2013

Self-reported life satisfaction is increasingly measured in government and private surveys around the world. In Canada, life satisfaction questions have not been asked in a consistent manner over time, but the accumulated set of data since 1985, along with recent surveys with repeated structure, now facilitates an analysis of regional changes. Those two and a half decades reveal a significant increase in life satisfaction in the province of Quebec as compared with the rest of Canada. The scale of this increase in well-being is comparable to the imputed effect of more than a trebling of mean household income.
Summer Learning Inequality in Ontario
Authors: Davies Scott , Aurini Janice
Published: June 2013

Education policy should be informed by research that distinguishes school-based learning from learning that occurs during non-school time. American studies find that socio-economic disparities in learning tend to widen over the summer months, the longest continuous stretch of non-school time. This paper analyzes the first large-scale Canadian study of summer learning. We collected data on literacy growth for a non-random sample of 1,376 Ontario children in Grades 1–3 during the summers of 2010 and 2011. Summer learning was widely dispersed with a mean of zero, and equal proportions of children had substantial learning gains and losses. There were strong disparities by family socio-economic status (SES), as affluent children gained literacy while those from poorer families lost literacy. We attributed 25 percent of the gap between the top and bottom SES quartiles at the start of the school year to the previous summer. We discuss implications for Canadian education policy and future research.
“Last in a Long Line of Literary Kleptomaniacs”: Intertextuality in Sarah Kane’s4.48 Psychosis
Authors: Diedrich Antje
Published: June 2013

The article examines intertextuality as conscious dramaturgical strategy in the composition of Sarah Kane’s 4.48 Psychosis. Inspired by Jörg Helbig’s notion of intertextual marking, the analysis identifies intertextual inscriptions in the play and examines the relationship between manifest text (the text the author produces) and referent text (the text the author borrows from). Kane’s engagement with depression, psychosis, and suicide is mediated through ideas and structures that she adapts from a range of sources. Each of these frames and re-frames the experience of individual suffering explored in the text, and together, they chart the I’s journey from depression to psychosis to suicide. Moreover, the play contains a critique of diagnostic psychiatry and plays out medical discourses against poetic (counter) discourses that reveal mental illness as constructed and contingent on changing social and cultural perceptions and practices.
Synthesis of Styryl Substituted Semicarbazides under Microwave Irradiation
Authors: Chai Lan-Qin , Zhang Hong-Song , Liu Gang , Huang Jiao-Jiao , Cheng Qiao-Qiao
Published: June 2013

A series of styryl substituted semicarbazides were synthesised by reaction of trans-styryl isocyanate, prepared by Curtius rearrangement of cinnamoyl azide, with acid hydrazides under microwave irradiation using a one-pot procedure. The effects of microwave irradiation in promoting the condensation of trans-styryl isocyanate with hydrazides were investigated alongside a conventional heating method (oil bath at 120 °C). When compared with classical methods, microwave irradiation has the advantages of mild conditions, easy handling, and high yields. The products have been characterised by analytical and spectral (IR and 1H NMR) data.
Efficient Synthesis of 4h-Benzo[d][1,3]oxazin-4-ones from Anthranilic Acids and Aryl Isoselenocyanates
Authors: Xie Yuanyuan , Zhu Dongmei
Published: June 2013

A synthesis in good to excellent yields of 23 4H-benzo[d][1,3]oxazin-4-ones, 18 of which are novel, from monosubstituted anthranilic acids and variously substituted phenyl isoselenocyanates without using any harsh reagents has been developed. The Se powder precipitated during the reaction could be efficiently recycled for the preparation of the aryl isoselenocyanates.
Three new species of Elatostema J.R. Forst. & G. Forst. (Urticaceae) in limestone caves from Guangxi and Guizhou, China
Authors: Wei Yi-Gang , Wen Fang , Fu Long-Fei , Wang Wen-Tsai
Published: June 2013

Three new species of Elatostema J.R. Forst. & G. Forst. from Guangxi and Guizhou, China are described and illustrated. They are E. atrostriatum W.T. Wang & Y.G. Wei, which is most similar to E. stewardii Merr.; E. jingxiense W.T. Wang & Y.G. Wei, which is most similar to E. malacotrichum W.T. Wang & Y.G. Wei, and E. schizodiscum W.T. Wang & Y.G. Wei, which is most similar to E. angulaticaule W.T. Wang & Y.G. Wei.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjpt.v20i1.15458Bangladesh J. Plant Taxon. 20(1): 1-8, 2013 (June)
Nutlet morphology and its taxonomic significance in the genus Mentha L. (Lamiaceae) from Turkey
Authors: Tarimcilar Gül , Yilmaz Özer , Daskin Ruziye , Kaynak Gönül
Published: June 2013

The nutlet morphology of 11 taxa of Mentha L. (M. pulegium, M. aquatica, M. × piperita, M. x dumetorum, M. spicata subsp. spicata, M. spicata subsp. tomentosa, M. × villoso-nervata, M. longifolia subsp. longifolia, M. longifolia subsp. typhoides, M. × rotundifolia and M. suaveolens) distributed throughout Turkey was investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The shape of all studied nutlets was broadly oblong or ovoid. Nutlet size ranged from 0.54 to 0.97 mm in length and from 0.37 to 0.66 mm in width. The smallest and biggest nutlets were found in M. × villoso-nervata and M. aquatica, respectively. The Mentha taxa studied can be divided into three groups, based on nut sculpturing type such as distinctly bireticulate, inconspicuously bireticulate and reticulate. This study has shown that some nutlet morphological characteristics can be utilised as additional diagnostic characteristics in delimitations of Mentha at the species and infraspecific levels.
Ethnobotanical studies of wild herbs of central Punjab, Pakistan
Authors: Zereen Arifa , Khan Zaheer-ud-din , Sardar Andleeb Anwar
Published: June 2013

The current research work was designed to file the indigenous knowledge on the flora of eight districts of Central Punjab, viz., Faisalabad, Pakpattan, Lahore, Nankana Sahib, Narowal, Sahiwal, Sialkot and Vehari. Frequent field trips were made during 2006-2008 to record ethnobotanical data by interviewing people of various age groups, mostly ranging between 30 to 70 years, including medicinal healers (herbalists/hakims). The total number of species recorded was 102 that belonged to 90 genera and 38 families and were being used by local people of respective districts for various purposes e.g. medicine, fuel, fodder, vegetables, fruits and for making mats and baskets.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjpt.v20i1.15466Bangladesh J. Plant Taxon. 20(1): 67-76, 2013 (June)
Foliar trichomes of Croton L. (Euphorbiaceae: Crotonoideae) from China and its taxonomic implications
Authors: Liu Huan-Fang , Deng Yun-Fei , Liao Jing-Ping
Published: June 2013

Foliar trichomes of 21 species of the genus Croton L. from China have been examined using stereomicroscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Five trichome types characterized by their morphology are identified, viz., stellate, lepidote, simple, dendritic and appressed-rosulate. Only stellate trichome is observed in most species, with only six species that are found to maintain two or three trichome types. Trichome types and density are useful for species identification and sectional classification for Chinese species. Based on the trichome types and other morphological characters, 21 Chinese species are proposed to be placed in five sections. Croton crassifolius belongs to sect. Andrichnia; C. cascarilloides belongs to sect. Monguia; C. mangelong, C. kongensis, C. laevigatus and C. laniflorus belong to sect. Argyrocroton; C. lauioides, C. howii and C. damayeshu belong to sect. Adenophylli. The remaining Chinese Croton species might be placed into sect. Croton. A key for Chinese Croton species based on trichome morphology is provided.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjpt.v20i1.15468Bangladesh J. Plant Taxon. 20(1): 85-94, 2013 (June)
Ordered and Ushered; the Assembly and Translocation of the Adhesive Type I and P Pili
Authors: Lillington James , Waksman Gabriel
Published: June 2013

Type I and P pili are chaperone-usher pili of uropathogenic Escherichia coli, which allow bacteria to adhere to host cell receptors. Pilus formation and secretion are orchestrated by two accessory proteins, a chaperone, which catalyses pilus subunit folding and maintains them in a polymerization-competent state, and an outer membrane-spanning nanomachine, the usher, which choreographs their assembly into a pilus and drives their secretion through the membrane. In this review, recent structures and kinetic studies are combined to examine the mechanism of type I and P pili assembly, as it is currently known. We also investigate how the knowledge of pilus biogenesis mechanisms has been exploited to design selective inhibitors of the process.
Involvement of Intercellular Adhesion Molecule-1 Up-Regulation in Bradykinin Promotes Cell Motility in Human Prostate Cancers
Authors: Yu Hsin-Shan , Lin Tien-Huang , Tang Chih-Hsin
Published: June 2013

Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed malignancy in men and shows a predilection for metastasis to distant organs. Bradykinin (BK) is an inflammatory mediator and has recently been shown to mediate tumor growth and metastasis. The adhesion molecule intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (ICAM-1) plays a critical role during tumor metastasis. The aim of this study was to examine whether BK promotes prostate cancer cell migration via ICAM-1 expression. The motility of cancer cells was increased following BK treatment. Stimulation of prostate cancer cells with BK induced mRNA and protein expression of ICAM-1. Transfection of cells with ICAM-1 small interfering RNA reduced BK-increased cell migration. Pretreatment of prostate cancer cells with B2 receptor, phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K), Akt, and activator protein 1 (AP-1) inhibitors or mutants abolished BK-promoted migration and ICAM-1 expression. In addition, treatment with a B2 receptor, PI3K, or Akt inhibitor also reduced BK-mediated AP-1 activation. Our results indicate that BK enhances the migration of prostate cancer cells by increasing ICAM-1 expression through a signal transduction pathway that involves the B2 receptor, PI3K, Akt, and AP-1. Thus, BK represents a promising new target for treating prostate cancer metastasis.