bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Splenic B Cells fromHymenolepis diminuta–Infected Mice Ameliorate Colitis Independent of T Cells and via Cooperation with Macrophages
Authors: Reyes José L. , Wang Arthur , Fernando Maria R. , Graepel Rabea , Leung Gabriella , van Rooijen Nico , Sigvardsson Mikael , McKay Derek M.
Published: December 2014

Helminth parasites provoke multicellular immune responses in their hosts that can suppress concomitant disease. The gut lumen-dwelling tapeworm Hymenolepis diminuta, unlike other parasites assessed as helminth therapy, causes no host tissue damage while potently suppressing murine colitis. With the goal of harnessing the immunomodulatory capacity of infection with H. diminuta, we assessed the putative generation of anti-colitic regulatory B cells following H. diminuta infection. Splenic CD19+ B cells isolated from mice infected 7 [HdBc(7d)] and 14 d (but not 3 d) previously with H. diminuta and transferred to naive mice significantly reduced the severity of dinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (DNBS)-, oxazolone-, and dextran-sodium sulfate–induced colitis. Mechanistic studies with the DNBS model, revealed the anti-colitic HdBc(7d) was within the follicular B cell population and its phenotype was not dependent on IL-4 or IL-10. The HdBc(7d) were not characterized by increased expression of CD1d, CD5, CD23, or IL-10 production, but did spontaneously, and upon LPS plus anti-CD40 stimulation, produce more TGF-β than CD19+ B cells from controls. DNBS-induced colitis in RAG1−/− mice was inhibited by administration of HdBc(7d), indicating a lack of a requirement for T and B cells in the recipient; however, depletion of macrophages in recipient mice abrogated the anti-colitic effect of HdBc(7d). Thus, in response to H. diminuta, a putatively unique splenic CD19+ B cell with a functional immunoregulatory program is generated that promotes the suppression of colitis dominated by TH1, TH2, or TH1-plus-TH2 events, and may do so via the synthesis of TGF-β and the generation of, or cooperation with, a regulatory macrophage.
Dysregulated miR-34a–SIRT1–Acetyl p65 Axis Is a Potential Mediator of Immune Activation in the Colon during Chronic Simian Immunodeficiency Virus Infection of Rhesus Macaques
Authors: Mohan Mahesh , Kumar Vinay , Lackner Andrew A. , Alvarez Xavier
Published: December 2014

Persistent gastrointestinal inflammation, a hallmark of progressive HIV/SIV infection, causes disruption of the gastrointestinal epithelial barrier, microbial translocation, and generalized immune activation/inflammation driving AIDS progression. Apart from protein regulators, recent studies strongly suggest critical roles for microRNAs (miRNAs) in regulating and managing certain aspects of the inflammatory process. To examine their immunoregulatory role, we profiled miRNA expression in the colon from 12 chronic SIV-infected and 4 control macaques. After applying multiple comparisons correction, 10 (3 upregulated and 7 downregulated) miRNAs showed differential expression. Most notably, miR-34a showed significant upregulation in both epithelial and lamina propria leukocyte (LPL) compartments. Intense γH2A.X expression in colonic epithelium and LPLs confirmed the contribution of DNA damage response in driving miR-34a upregulation. SIRT1 mRNA and protein decreased significantly in both colonic epithelium and LPLs. Luciferase reporter assays validated rhesus macaque SIRT1 as a direct miR-34a target. Decreased SIRT1 expression was associated with constitutively enhanced expression of the transcriptionally active form of the p65 (acetylated on lysine 310) subunit of NF-κB exclusively in the LPL compartment. The intensity and number of acetylated p65+ cells was markedly elevated in LPLs of chronically SIV-infected macaques compared with uninfected controls and localized to increased numbers of IgA+ and IgG+ plasma cells. These findings provide new insights into the potential role of the miR-34a–SIRT1–p65 axis in causing hyperactivation of the intestinal B cell system. Our results point to a possible mechanism where the normal immunosuppressive function of SIRT1 is inhibited by elevated miR-34a expression resulting in constitutive activation of acetylated p65 (lysine 310).
Perceptions on climate change and its impact on livelihoods in Hwange district, Zimbabwe
Authors: Nhemachena Charles , Mano Reneth , Mudombi Shakespear , Muwanigwa Virginia
Published: December 2014

This study investigated perceptions of rural communities on climate change and its impacts on livelihoods. The research was conducted in the semi-arid Hwange district in Matebelel and North province of Zimbabwe. The perceptions were compared with empirical evidence from climatic studies on trends on temperature and rainfall, and impacts on livelihoods in the country and region. The findings from the current study are generally in agreement with those of other studies that indicate changes in the climate, especially in terms of rainfall. This largely applies to short-term periods; however, for long-term periods it is difficult to accurately relate rural community perceptions to changes in rainfall over time. Despite perceived changes and impacts of climate change on local livelihood activities, mainly agriculture, there are multiple stressors that the communities face which also affect their livelihoods. Further evidence-based research is required to disentangle climate change impacts on livelihoods, including livelihood impacts arising from interactions of climate and non-climatic factors.
Inclusion body hepatitis associated with an outbreak of fowl adenovirus type 2 and type 8b in broiler flocks in South Africa
Authors: Maartens Louis H. , Joubert Hilda W. , Aitchison Henry , Venter Estelle H.
Published: December 2014

Inclusion body hepatitis is an acute disease of chickens ascribed to viruses of the genus Aviadenovirus and referred to as fowl adenovirus (FAdV). There are 12 FAdV types (FAdV1to FAdV8a and FAdV8b to FAdV11), classified into five species based on their genotype (designated FAdVA to FAdVE). A total of 218 000 chickens, 2–29 days of age, were affected over a 1-year period, all testing positive by microscopy, virus isolation and confirmation with polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Affected birds were depressed, lost body weight,were weak and had watery droppings. Pathological changes observed during necropsy indicated consistent changes in the liver, characterised by hepatomegaly, cholestasis and hepatitis. Lesions were also discernible in the spleen, kidney and gizzard wall and were characterised by splenomegaly, pinpoint haemorrhages, nephritis with haemorrhage,visceral gout and serosal ecchymosis of the gizzard wall. Histopathological lesions were most consistently observed in the liver but could also be seen in renal and splenic tissue. Virus isolation was achieved in embryonated eggs and most embryos revealed multifocalto diffuse hepatic necrosis, with a mixed cellular infiltrate of macrophages and heterophils(necro-granulomas), even in the absence of macroscopic pathology. Virus isolation results were verified by histopathology and PCR on embryonic material and further characterised by nucleotide sequence analysis. Two infectious bursal disease virus isolates were also made from the Klerksdorp flock. Nucleotide sequence analysis of the L1 hexon loop of all the FAdV isolates indicated homology (99%) with prototype strains P7-A for FAdV-2, as well as for FAdV-8b.
Prion Protein Signaling in the Nervous System—A Review and Perspective
Authors: Liebert Ann , Bicknell Brian , Adams Roger
Published: December 2014

Prion protein (PrPC) was originally known as the causative agent of transmissible spongiform encephalopathy (TSE) but with recent research, its true function in cells is becoming clearer. It is known to act as a scaffolding protein, binding multiple ligands at the cell membrane and to be involved in signal transduction, passing information from the extracellular matrix (ECM) to the cytoplasm. Its role in the coordination of transmitters at the synapse, glyapse, and gap junction and in short- and long-range neurotrophic signaling gives PrPC a major part in neural transmission and nervous system signaling. It acts to regulate cellular function in multiple targets through its role as a controller of redox status and calcium ion flux. Given the importance of PrPC in cell physiology, this review considers its potential role in disease apart from TSE. The putative functions of PrPC point to involvement in neurodegenerative disease, neuropathic pain, chronic headache, and inflammatory disease including neuroinflammatory disease of the nervous system. Potential targets for the treatment of disease influenced by PrPC are discussed.
A letter from Kharkov to Moscow
Authors: Drinfeld Vladimir
Published: December 2014

This naive, non-technical, and enthusiastic old letter could help people starting to learn deformation theory or derived algebraic geometry.
Comparison of secondary organic aerosol formed with an aerosol flow reactor and environmental reaction chambers: effect of oxidant concentration, exposure time and seed particles on chemical composition and yield
Authors: Lambe A. T. , Chhabra P. S. , Onasch T. B. , Brune W. H. , Hunter J. F. , Kroll J. H. , Cummings M. J. , Brogan J. F. , Parmar Y. , Worsnop D. R. , Kolb C. E. , Davidovits P.
Published: December 2014

Abstract. We performed a systematic intercomparison study of the chemistry and yields of SOA generated from OH oxidation of a common set of gas-phase precursors in a Potential Aerosol Mass (PAM) continuous flow reactor and several environmental chambers. In the flow reactor, SOA precursors were oxidized using OH concentrations ranging from 2.0×108 to 2.2×1010 molec cm−3 over exposure times of 100 s. In the environmental chambers, precursors were oxidized using OH concentrations ranging from 2×106 to 2×107 molec cm−3 over exposure times of several hours. The OH concentration in the chamber experiments is close to that found in the atmosphere, but the integrated OH exposure in the flow reactor can simulate atmospheric exposure times of multiple days compared to chamber exposure times of only a day or so. A linear correlation analysis of the mass spectra (m=0.91–0.92, r2=0.93–0.94) and carbon oxidation state (m=1.1, r2=0.58) of SOA produced in the flow reactor and environmental chambers for OH exposures of approximately 1011 molec cm−3 s suggests that the composition of SOA produced in the flow reactor and chambers is the same within experimental accuracy as measured with an aerosol mass spectrometer. This similarity in turn suggests that both in the flow reactor and in chambers, SOA chemical composition at low OH exposure is governed primarily by gas-phase OH oxidation of the precursors, rather than heterogeneous oxidation of the condensed particles. In general, SOA yields measured in the flow reactor are lower than measured in chambers for the range of equivalent OH exposures that can be measured in both the flow reactor and chambers. The influence of sulfate seed particles on isoprene SOA yield measurements was examined in the flow reactor. The studies show that seed particles increase the yield of SOA produced in flow reactors by a factor of 3 to 5 and may also account in part for higher SOA yields obtained in the chambers, where seed particles are routinely used.
A new species of Lacinius in amber (Arachnida: Opiliones)
Authors: Mitov P. G. , Dunlop J. A. , Penney D.
Published: December 2014

Abstract. A new specimen of Lacinius Thorell, 1876; (Opiliones: Phalangiidae) from Eocene Baltic amber is described. We interpret it as conspecific with a slightly younger record from the German Bitterfeld amber, originally referred to as the extant species L. erinaceus Staręga, 1966. Our new specimen reveals pedipalpal apophyses on both the patella and the tibia, features which we can now confirm in the Bitterfeld fossil too. This unique character combination for the genus justifies a new, extinct species: Lacinius bizleyi sp. nov. The Baltic amber inclusion dates to ca. 44–49 Ma, and is thus the oldest putative example of Lacinius in the fossil record. It is a further example of an arachnid species shared between Baltic and Bitterfeld amber.
Effect of Grid Decentration on Macular Thickness Measurements in Normal Subjects and Patients with Diabetic Macular Edema
Authors: Falavarjani Khalil Ghasemi , Khadamy Joobin , Safi Hamid , Karimi Nasser , Amirkourjani Foad
Published: December 2014

Purpose

To evaluate the effect of optical coherence tomography (OCT) grid decentration on macular thickness measurements in healthy subjects and patients with diabetic macular edema.

Methods

In this prospective study, 3D spectral-domain OCT images of 51 eyes with clinically significant diabetic macular edema and 29 healthy eyes were assessed. In each eye, the macular Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study grid was evaluated for decentration. After grid adjustment, changes in central subfield thickness (CST) and central subfield volume (CSV) measurements were recorded. Changes >1 μm and >8.5 μm in CST were considered as grid decentration and clinically significant grid decentration, respectively.

Results

Grid decentration was found in 10 normal eyes (34.6%) and 32 clinically significant macular edema (CSME) eyes (62.7%, p = 0.01). Clinically significant CST changes were found in 3 normal eyes (10.3%) and 23 CSME eyes (45%, p = 0.001). The mean change in CST after grid adjustment was 6.4 ± 5.8 µm and 24.7 ± 27 µm in normal and CSME eyes (p = 0.04). Age, sex, and CST had no statistically significant effect on grid decentration in normal and CSME eyes. Best-corrected visual acuity was significantly worse in eyes with grid decentration (0.75 ± 0.55 vs 0.42 ± 0.22 logMAR, p = 0.02) and clinically significant grid decentration (0.81 ± 0.6 vs 0.45 ± 0.27 logMAR, p = 0.01). Change in CSV was detected in 3 normal eyes (10.3%) and 24 CSME eyes (47%, p = 0.001).

Conclusions

Grid decentration occurs in a large number of OCT thickness maps and leads to significant error in macular thickness measurements. The effect is more prominent in patients with CSME.
Development of a Novel Method for Decellularizing a Nerve Graft Using a Hypertonic Sodium Chloride Solution
Authors: Ishida Yasuhisa , Sakakibara Shuhsuke , Terashi Hiroto , Hashikawa Kazunobu , Yamaoka Tetsuji
Published: December 2014

Purpose

Acellular nerves are a reconstruction material and provide scaffolds for nerve regeneration. Numerous methods to develop acellular nerves have been described. However, these methods pose problems that can be attributed to incomplete acellular processing and destruction of the extracellular matrix (ECM); the former may lead to rejection response, while the latter may damage the scaffold. In order to overcome problems associated with the above-mentioned methods, we developed a novel method that employs a hypertonic sodium chloride solution to decellularize nerve graft material.

Methods

Rat sciatic nerves were harvested, dipped in hypertonic sodium chloride solution (1 M), and shaken for 24 h. We then washed the nerves in phosphate-buffered saline for 7 days with shaking and evaluated the acellular nerves by hematoxylin-eosin (H-E) staining, immunostaining, and electron microscopy. We then transplanted the grafts to the sciatic nerve of another rat and evaluated the outcomes by H-E staining, immunostaining (anti-neurofilament antibody, anti-S-100 antibody), anterograde nerve tracing, and electron microscopy.

Results

We found that our method successfully decellularized the grafts, but was mild enough to leave the ECM intact. Two months after transplantation, immunostaining and anterograde nerve tracing confirmed that Schwann cells infiltrated the grafts and induced neurofilament extension.

Conclusions

Our methodology preserves the ECM, is simple to develop, and does not involve substances that harm biogenic tissue. Acellular nerve tissue processed in this way could become a substitute material for bridging nerve gaps. Our method could also aid in the development of other acellular tissues.
In situ Evolution of the Mechanical Properties of Stretchable and Non-Stretchable ePTFE Vascular Grafts and Adjacent Native Vessels
Authors: Famaey Nele , Verhoeven Jelle , Jacobs Steven , Pettinari Matteo , Meyns Bart
Published: December 2014

Introduction

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the evolution of the mechanical properties of stretchable and non-stretchable ePTFE vascular grafts over time following implantation, as well as those of the adjacent native vessels.

Methods

One stretchable and one non-stretchable graft were implanted in either carotid position of six sheep. After twelve weeks, the samples, as well as the distal adjacent native vessel, were explanted and evaluated mechanically by means of uniaxial tensile tests. These tests were performed in the axial as well as in the circumferential direction. Also, patches of these grafts were implanted subcutaneously in the abdominal wall of the same animals. At 2, 4, 6, and 8 weeks, patches were explanted and evaluated mechanically. Baseline mechanical tensile tests were also performed on non-implanted grafts and on native sheep carotid arteries.

Results

Statistical analysis shows a significant effect of implantation time on the tensile mechanical properties of ePTFE vascular grafts. This effect is present for stretchable as well as non-stretchable grafts, in axial as well as in circumferential direction of the material. Also the adjacent native vessels have a tendency to lose mechanical stiffness and strength in the circumferential direction, an effect which is most pronounced for stretchable grafts.

Conclusions

The mechanical properties of ePTFE vascular grafts and the adjacent native vessels significantly change as a function of implantation time. Compared to the native vessels, the grafts are still significantly stronger and stiffer, though longer term experiments are needed to evaluate whether and how much the decline would continue in time.
Effect of Protoconized Therapy for Renal Anemia on Adverse Events of Patients with Maintenance Hemodialysis
Authors: Kuragano Takahiro , Yahiro Mana , Kida Aritoshi , Furuta Minoru , Nagasawa Yasuyuki , Hasuike Yukiko , Nanami Masayoshi , Nakanishi Takeshi
Published: December 2014

Purpose

We evaluate the effect of the protoconized anemia therapy on adverse events using the Hb and ferritin levels of individual patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis (MHD).

Methods

Design: A randomized, parallel group, multi-center study.

Patients

Two hundred sixty-six MHD patients. Intervention group: The doses of erythropoietin, iron, and vitamin C were adjusted every month based on the ferritin and hemoglobin (Hb) levels according to the protocol. Non-intervention group: The attending physician determined the doses of erythropoietin and iron.

Results

The maintenance rate of target Hb and ferritin levels were significantly higher in the Intervention group than in the Non-intervention group. The frequency of hospitalization was significantly lower for patients with a higher maintenance rate of target Hb levels than for those with a lower maintenance rate.

Conclusions

Using an anemia treatment protocol according to the individual Hb and ferritin levels of hemodialysis patients might stabilize the Hb and ferritin levels, which in turn could contribute to the lower frequency of adverse events in MHD patients.
Golf Scores, Cards, and the Father of Geometry
Authors: Amidon Joel , Roscoe Matt
Published: December 2014

A monthly set of problems is aimed at a variety of ability levels.
A Tool for Rethinking Teachers' Questioning
Authors: Simpson Amber , Mokalled Stefani , Ellenburg Lou Ann , Che S. Megan
Published: December 2014

The Cognitive Rigor Matrix is a tool that teachers can use to analyze and reflect on questions and tasks and, in the process, increase the level of rigor.
The Research Council of Norway’s publication grants for scholarly journals: present status and the road ahead
Authors: Schjølberg Rune Rambæk
Published: December 2014

The Research Council of Norway’s publication grant scheme has since 1993 contributed to the publication of scholarly journals in the humanities and social sciences. Presently 44 Norwegian journals receive support from the Councils Publications committee. Through the Nordic Publications Board (NOP-HS) RCN also contributes to the publication of 41 Nordic scholarly journals. This presentation will focus on the challenges facing new and existing business models for scholarly journals from the Research council’s point of view, including comments on the new business model proposed by Gunnar Sivertsen.
What can the Zigglebottom Tagger teach academic publishing?
Authors: Trosterud Trond
Published: December 2014

In recent years, there has been a focus upon open access to research articles, and to access to the data underlying the analyses. The story of the fictious Zigglebottom Tagger stresses the importance of the ability to reproduce results, and the talk will discuss how this goal can be achieved.
Introducing Open Access Key
Authors: Thomson Simon
Published: December 2014

OAK was founded in 2011 by a former academic publishing executive and a business software developer who encountered first-hand the challenges facing universities and authors with the growth of open access publishing – both Green and Gold. They set about creating a system that dramatically reduced administration and overcame inefficient workflows for all involved.With the establishment of the 'author pays' scholarly publishing model and the increasing trend for open access mandates from research funders, have infrastructure and resources developed sufficiently to support the additional financial and time pressures that participants now face?Individual researchers, their universities and research funders, and the publishers themselves, all have a part to play in processing and managing individual fees. It appears there is a need from all participants in the industry to make provision to encompass the administration of the publication charges required by many open access publishers. Open Access Key (OAK) is a new global company with an innovative and cost-effective solution which could provide value to all parties involved in these transactions.And in addition to financial management, OAK has been built to deliver a wide range of administrative functionality to the users. For example, OAK can feed repositories with the metadata information collected from each article processed through the platform. Automated workflow again reduces the tasks of the authors and administrators allowing resources to be directed towards research.OAK has been built by Norwegian and Danish technology partners using software that delivers tremendous flexibility. At the same time, the company has created an environment that will enable the sharing of best practice models with its customers. The company's size also speeds up decision-making and reactivity. Within an OAK account, for example, there are 'feedback buttons' to enable users to pass on thoughts, requests and general comments directly to the development team. Prior to rolling out the OAK platform to a new customer, the team spends time discussing the needs within each organisation and engineering the system to meet individual specifications.
Open Access Publishing and the role of the Royal Society of Chemistry
Authors: O'Connor Brian , Copsey May
Published: December 2014

See video of the presentation.The Royal Society of Chemistry recognises that researchers are increasingly being mandated to publish Open Access (OA), but do not always have the funding to pay for it directly. Our presentation would outline the RSC’s view on Open Access, and how as a society publisher we are supporting the funder-led evolution to Gold open access with a Gold for Gold initiative, ensuring academics can further increase the visibility of their quality research, and fulfil their funder mandate. The presentation will show how this initiative has been successfully piloted in the UK, which has been one of the first countries to mandate Open Access, and is now available to all our authors worldwide. The presentation will also cover some of the activities that the RSC is undertaking to support researchers with the dissemination of their research and to ensure the impact of this is maximised.
Theory and Practice in OA-policies - How to implement Open Access: a funder perspective
Authors: Løvhaug Johannes , Schølberg Rune Rambæk
Published: December 2014

See video of the presentation.Theory and Practice in OA-policies: The Research Council of Norway is currently revising its policy on Open Access. At the same time the Council is looking at ways to support Norwegian journals within  humanities and social sciences in order to promote OA-publishing. As a funding agency, the Research Council is looking at ways to implement OA-policies. The key question is: How to move from principle  declarations on Open Access to practical tools for achieving OA-goals? Schjølberg and Løvhaug will present a model for financial support to OA-journals within humanities and social sciences as a joint venture between the Research Council and research institutions in Norway.
Better than Average – The Positive Effects of a Department actively supporting Open Access
Authors: Kullman Lars , Gilbert Jonas
Published: December 2014

Chalmers University of Technology adopted an Open Access policy in 2010, mandating its researchers to deposit copies of their work in the university repository (Chalmers Publication Library). The Library was given the assignment to implement the policy but also to monitor the progress. In the beginning of 2013 we compiled the first comprehensive report to the university management and the departments.The share of Open Access publications varies to a large degree between different departments and subject fields. The reaction from the departments when presented to the numbers also varies, from referring to ‘the usual suspects’ – workflow issues, copyright issues, didn’t remember etc – to the reaction: how can we improve us?The Department of Signals and Systems publishes approx. 100 peer-reviewed journal articles and 200 peer-reviewed conference papers yearly.  The Department started an active discussion how to improve the rate of Open Access. This discussion resulted in a project together with the library, in order to increase the number of Open Access publications and the visibility of the researchers and their publications on the web. The aim was to bring the share of Open Access publications from about 30 % to 100 %. An agreement with the Library was signed, where the library would assist the researchers to submit their papers to the repository.  The proposed poster will discuss:a)     How we provide feedback to management and departments.b)    The differences between departments when it comes to Open Access publications.c)     The importance of a department management actively promoting Open Access.d)    How library and department collaborates in order to increase the amount of Open Access publications.e)     Outcome and lessons learned from such collaboration.We hope to contribute to and participate in the discussion on what best practice the library should adopt to evaluate the progress of the transition to an open access culture among researchers.
Seed Diversity and Utilization of the Upland Rice Landraces and Traditional Varieties from Selected Areas in Bukidnon, Philippines
Authors: Jamago Joy M. , Cortes Rosemarie V.
Published: December 2014

Enhancing upland rice production is one solution to achieve rice sufficiency in the country. Improved genotypes contribute to this goal at a relatively low cost to farmers, but available resources need to be assessed first. This study determined the availability of upland rice landraces and traditional varieties (URLTVs) in selected areas of Bukidnon, estimated the seed diversity of available genotypes, and documented their use. Twenty-four Barangays from 10 municipalities and 2 cities were surveyed from November 2010 to May 2011. Interviews (n=45), seed sourcing, and evaluation of 13 seed traits were done. One hundred forty URLTVs were collected, of which 82 (59%) were from San Fernando, Bukidnon whose peoples were mostly of the Matigsalug tribe. Shannon-Weaver Diversity estimates for 100 seed weight, grain length and width, grain thickness, caryopsis length and width, and lemma: apiculus color showed high diversity (H’=0.76 to 0.88). URLTVs were grown for household consumption, church offering and for special occasions, and to reduce chemical inputs. For the Matigsalugs, their URLTVS serve to strengthen their cultural beliefs and are trademarks for their tribal group. Collection from other areas of Bukidnon needs to be done to ascertain other available germplasm and possible threats to these plant genetic resources. Keywords - plant genetics, Oryza sativa, agro-ecosystem diversity, rice production, upland rice, Bukidnon, Philippines
Heavy Metals in the Water Column of Iloilo- Guimaras Jetty Port (Parola Wharf )
Authors: SARINAS BRIAN GIL S. , GELLADA LORNA D. , MAGRAMO MELCHOR M. , TERUÑEZ MARLON R.
Published: December 2014

Jetty Port (Parola Wharf) in Iloilo City is a depot of passengers going toGuimaras, Philippines. Considering the dearth of studies on the presence of heavymetals in this area, this study was conducted. It aimed to determine the presenceand quantities of available heavy metals specifically lead, cadmium and chromiumin the water column (surface, middle and bottom) of Iloilo-Guimaras Jetty Port. Inaddition, water physicochemical parameters were also measured such as pH, salinityand temperature, in situ. Three sampling areas were identified in the Jetty Port.One liter was collected in the surface, middle and bottom layer of each sampling area for a total of nine seawater samples. The seawater samples were immediatelytransported to the CAS-Analytical Service Laboratory of UPV, Miag-ao, Iloilofor the quantification of available heavy metals through flame atomic absorptionspectrophotometric (FAAS) method. Ph values range from 6.0-7.333, 12.0-13.167ppm for salinity and 27.333-27.567 0C for three sampling areas. Average cadmium,chromium and lead were higher at station 3 with 0.69 mg/L, 0.81 mg/L and 0.339mg/L, respectively. The results showed that mean of Cr > Pb > Cd < Cr in the watercolumn of the three sampling areas, however is not significant, p>.05. Availablecadmium, chromium and lead exceeded the permissive value. This study will giveinformation to the public about the present heavy metal status of the Jetty Port.
Local Perceptions and Some Aspects of Natural and Human Environment in the Satoumi (coastal landscapes) of Nanao Bay, Ishikawa, Japan
Authors: EDPALINA RIZALITA ROSALEJOS , KOSHIBA YURIE , NAKAMURA KOJI
Published: December 2014

Nanao Bay is a small and enclosed bay with a circumference of about 91.0 kms. in East of Noto Peninsula, Ishikawa Prefecture located in the central partof the Sea of Japan. The study surveyed the 250 sampled respondents acrossNanao Bay specifically, Nanao City, Anamizu City, Notojima Town, Sazanami,and Kannonsaki in Noto Peninsula. The study used descriptive survey involving250 respondents from five sites. The questionnaire was duly tested and validated. The survey results showed that on the average, the respondents have lived 65years in the cities and towns covering Nanao Bay and belonged to a family withfive members. Information regarding the state of Nanao Bay was provided to thequestions related to the condition of Nanao Bay. Respondents perceived NanaoBay to be in “not bad or not good” condition escaping poverty due to resourcerelateddegradation issues. Fishingis the main sourceof livelihoodunderscoringtheneed for a healthy coastal/marine environmentand associated fisheries.Differencesin perceptionsin relationto the demographic characteristics showedthateducation is the most importantfactor that influences the perceptionsofthe respondentstowardthe condition of the bay.The study concludes thatunderstandingthe well-beingof the stakeholders is vital in facilitating effectiveandsuccessful implementation of satoumiconservation.Keywords: Socioeconomics, conservation, management, Nanao Bay SatoumiConservation Project, descriptive design, Japan
Allocation and Usage of Water for Irrigation Water Governance in Sta. Cruz River Watershed, Laguna, Philippines
Authors: PINTOR LYNLEI L. , DIZON JOSEFINA T. , ROLA AGNES C. , QUIMBO MARIA ANA T. , HA QUYEN DINH
Published: December 2014

Farm irrigation has the highest total water consumption. This study on watergovernance for irrigation delved into water allocation and water usage in Sta. CruzRiver Watershed, Laguna, Philippines. Methods used for data gathering werehousehold interview, key informant interview, focus group discussion, review ofdocuments, and observation. Results reveal that water is always available for farmirrigation. Immediate repair of damaged irrigation canal was a recommendationidentified to reduce water wastage. Farmers are aware that water is an economicgood and that rice production will be affected when there is limited water supply.Such awareness leads to the proper use of water. Water distribution by schedulewas identified as a measure to control water. There are non-rice farmers havingfree access to the irrigation water resulting in a competition for water use amongfarmers. The paper recommends the maintenance of irrigation canals and theinvolvement of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources for therehabilitation of the watershed.Keywords: Water governance, water allocation, water usage, irrigation, Philippines
Supracostal Approach for PCNL: Is 10th and 11th Intercostal Space Safe According to Clavien Classification System?
Authors: Kara Cengiz , Değirmenci Tansu , Kozacioglu Zafer , Gunlusoy Bulent , Koras Omer , Minareci Suleyman
Published: December 2014

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the success and morbidity of percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) performed through the 11th and 10th intercostal space. Between March 2005 and February 2012, 612 patients underwent PCNL, 243 of whom had a supracostal access. The interspace between the 11th and 12th rib was used in 204 cases (group 1) and between the 10th and 11th interspaces in 39 cases (group 2). PCNL was performed using standard supracostal technique in all patients. The operative time, success rate, hospital stay, and complications according to the modified Clavien classification were compared between group 1 and group 2. The stone-free rate was 86.8% in group 1 and 84.6% in group 2 after one session of PCNL. Auxiliary procedures consisting of ureterorenoscopy (URS) and shock wave lithotripsy (SWL) were required in 5 and 7 patients, respectively, in group 1; and in 1 patient each in group 2 . After the auxiliary procedures, stone-free rates increased to 92.6% in group 1 and 89.7% in group 2. A total of 74 (30.4%) complications were documented in the 2 groups according to modified Clavien classification. Grade-I complications were recorded in 20 (8.2%), grade-II in 38 (15.6%), grade-IIIa in 13 (5.3%), and grade-IIIb in 2 (0.8%) patients; grade-IVa was recorded in 1 (0.4%) patient. There were no grade-IVb or grade-V complications. Overall complication rate was 30.9% in group 1 and 28.2% in group 2. Supracostal PCNL in selected cases is effective and safe with acceptable complications. The modified Clavien system provides a standardized grading system for complications of PCNL.
Effect of 4% Chlorhexidine Gluconate Predisinfection Skin Scrub Prior to Hepatectomy: A Double-Blinded, Randomized Control Study
Authors: Hsieh Ching-Shui , Cheng Hsiu-Chi , Lin Jen-Shiou , Kuo Shou-Jen , Chen Yao-Li
Published: December 2014

This trial was designed to compare the efficacy of 4% chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG) with normal saline (NS) as a predisinfection skin-scrub solution prior to standard presurgical skin preparation. Data was collected at a single transplantation center where patients electing resection of hepatic tumors were recruited between October 2011 and September 2012. In total, 100 patients were consecutively enrolled for random assignment to either 4% CHG or NS as a predisinfection skin-scrub solution prior to surgery. Our aim was to assess the comparative antiseptic efficacy of CHG in this setting, focusing on cutaneous microbial colonization (at baseline, preoperatively, and postoperatively) and postsurgical site infections as primary outcome measures. Positivity rates of baseline, preoperative, and postoperative cultures were similar for both groups, showing significant declines (relative to baseline) after skin preparation and no significant postsurgical rebound. Rates of surgical site infection were also similar in both groups (CHG, 6.0%; NS, 4.1%; P = 1.0). For patients with hepatic tumors undergoing hepatectomy, the effect of 4% CHG as a predisinfection scrub solution was similar to that of NS in terms of skin decontamination and surgical site infections.
Implantation of Nerve Stump Inside a Vein and a Muscle: Comparing Neuroma Formation in Rat
Authors: Prasetyono Theddeus O. H. , Permatasari Erythrina , Soetrisno Esti
Published: December 2014

Among many techniques independently reported to manage neuroma formation, manipulation of the nerve stump inside muscle and vein is the most advantageous technique. This study aimed to enrich the basic data of macroscopic appearance and histo-pathology regarding which technique generates less neuroma: nerve stump implantation inside vein or inside muscle. An experimental study with posttest-only control-group design was conducted in 24 rats that were randomly arranged into 3 groups. One centimeter of the lateral branch of the right ischiadic nerve was cut. Group A served as the control group, where the proximal nerve stumps were left as they were after the excision; whereas the stumps of groups B and C were implanted inside muscles and veins, respectively. The samples were assessed with histologic examination after 4 weeks to measure the morphometric changes in the nerve endings. The data were statistically analyzed with t test. All rats healed uneventfully. No thrombosis was found within group C, and the stumps were free of neuroma formation. The muscle group formed smaller neuroma than the control group. Statistical analysis showed significant differences between the groups (P < 0.05). The outcome of nerve stump implantation inside the lumen of a vein is superior to the implantation inside a muscle in preventing neuroma formation.
One, Two, or Three Ports in Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy?
Authors: Justo-Janeiro Jaime Manuel , Vincent Gustavo Theurel , Vázquez de Lara Fernando , de la Rosa Paredes René , Orozco Eduardo Prado , Vázquez de Lara Luis G.
Published: December 2014

Single-port laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) has been compared with 3- or 4-port LC. To our knowledge, there are no studies comparing the 3-, 2-, and 1-port techniques. Patients were randomized into 3 groups: LC 1-port using SILS, LC 2-port using a laparoscope with a working channel, and LC 3-port using the standard ports. Pain was evaluated at recovery, 4 hours, 24 hours, day 5, and day 8, using an analog visual scale. Homogenous groups in their demographic characteristics; all confirmed gallbladder lithiasis. At recovery, there was less pain in group 1 (P = 0.002); at 4 hours pain was similar in all groups (P = 0.899); at 24 hours there was less pain in groups 2 and 3 (P = 0.031); and at days 5 and 8 there was marginal (P = 0.053) and significant (P = 0.003) relevance. In terms of pain perception, LC performed through 1 port does not offer advantages when compared with 2 or 3 ports. More clinical trials are needed to confirm these data.
The Effects of Dexketoprofen on Endogenous Leptin and Lipid Peroxidation During Liver Ischemia Reperfusion Injury
Authors: Ustun Yasemin Burcu , Koksal Ersin , Kaya Cengiz , Sener Elif Bengi , Aksoy Abdurrahman , Yarim Gul , Kabak Yonca , Gulbahar Yavuz
Published: December 2014

Hepatic ischemia reperfusion (IR) injury has complex mechanisms. We investigated the effect of dexketoprofen on endogenous leptin and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. Wistar albino rats were divided into 4 equal groups and were subjected to 1-hour ischemia and different subsequent reperfusion intervals. Dexketoprofen was administered in a dose of 25 mg/kg 15 minutes before ischemia induction and 1-hour reperfusion to the Dexketoprofen one-hour reperfusion group, n = 6 (DIR1) group and 6-hour reperfusion to the Dexketoprofen six-hour reperfusion group, n = 6 (DIR6) group. In the control groups, 0.9% physiologic serum (SF) was administered 15 minutes before ischemia induction and 1-hour reperfusion to the one-hour reperfusion group, n = 6 (IR1) group and 6-hour reperfusion to the six-hour reperfusion group, n = 6 (IR6) group. Although serum leptin (P = 0.044) and hepatic tissue MDA levels (P = 0.004) were significantly higher in the IR6 group than in the IR1 group, there were no significant differences in dexketoprofen pretreatment between the DIR1 and DIR6 groups. There were no differences in serum MDA levels among the 4 groups, and serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) activities were significantly higher in the IR1 (P = 0.026 and P = 0.018, respectively) and IR6 (P = 0.000 and P = 0.002, respectively) groups than in the DIR1 and DIR6 groups. Dexketoprofen pretreatment can protect the liver from IR injury by decreasing inflammation and lipid peroxidation. Our study shows that dexketoprofen has no effects on endogenous leptin during IR injury.
Magnetic Storms and Induction Hazards
Authors: Love Jeffrey J. , Joshua Rigler E. , Pulkkinen Antti , Balch Christopher C.
Published: December 2014

Magnetic storms are potentially hazardous to the activities and technological infrastructure of modern civilization. This reality was dramatically demonstrated during the great magnetic storm of March 1989, when surface geoelectric fields, produced by the interaction of the time‐varying geomagnetic field with the Earth's electrically conducting interior, coupled onto the overlying Hydro‐Québec electric power grid in Canada. Protective relays were tripped, the grid collapsed, and about 9 million people were temporarily left without electricity [Bolduc, 2002].
Multidisciplinary Monitoring Experiments at Kawah Ijen Volcano
Authors: Gunawan Hendra , Pallister John , Caudron Corentin
Published: December 2014

“Wet volcanoes” with crater lakes and extensive hydrothermal systems pose challenges for monitoring and forecasting eruptions. That's because their lakes and hydrothermal systems serve as reservoirs for magmatic heat and fluid emissions, filtering and delaying the surface expressions of magmatic unrest.
A dearth of hurricanes cannot explain Maya collapse
Authors: Schultz Colin
Published: December 2014

A thousand years ago the great Maya culture of Central America collapsed. Climate change was one factor that stressed the civilization until it fractured: A prolonged period of intense and persistent drought left the Maya's descendants to carry on without a robust elite urban class.
Life Reinsurance
Authors: Orbanz Ulrich
Published: December 2014

The article highlights some differences of life reinsurance compared to general reinsurance, covering demand, types of reinsurance, actuarial aspects, retention, pricing, and financing. Additional remarks are made regarding group business and living benefits.
Working Covers
Authors: Patrik Gary
Published: December 2014

A working cover is a very standard and prevalent form of excess‐of‐loss treaty reinsurance. Working covers provide capacity and stabilization for a ceding company's financial results. A working cover provides capacity because it allows the ceding company to write higher policy limits and yet maintain a manageable risk level. Working covers enhance competition within the insurance marketplace by providing a means by which smaller insurers can compete with larger insurers. Working covers are often large enough so that many of the pricing parameters can be estimated either directly from the exposure and claims history or by a credibility weighting of that history with more general industry information.
B
enjamin,
B
ernard
Authors: Haberman Steven
Published: December 2014

Bernard Benjamin (1910–2002) was a distinguished British actuary, demographer, and health statistician. He held several leading posts, in university teaching and public administration, and wrote many influential books on various topics including vital and health statistics, mortality analysis, and medical records.
Finite‐Temperature Properties of Rare‐Earth‐Substituted BiFeO3 Multiferroic Solid Solutions
Authors: Xu Bin , Wang Dawei , Íñiguez Jorge , Bellaiche Laurent
Published: December 2014

Rare‐earth substitution in the multiferroic BiFeO3 (BFO) material holds promise for resolving drawbacks inherent to pure BFO, and for enhancing piezoelectric and magneto‐electric properties via a control of structural and magnetic characteristics. Rare‐earth‐doped BFO solid solutions also exhibit unresolved features, such as the precise nature and atomic characteristics of some intermediate phases. Here, an effective Hamiltonian scheme is developed that allows the investigation of finite‐temperature properties of these systems from an atomistic point of view. In addition to reproducing experimental results of Nd‐doped BFO on structural and magnetic transitions with temperature and composition, this scheme also provides an answer (in form of nanotwins) to these intermediate phases. A striking magneto‐electric effect—namely a paramagnetic–to–antiferromagnetic transition that is induced by an applied electric field—is further predicted near critical compositions, with the resulting structural path being dependent on the orientation of the electric field relative to the antiferroelectric vector.
Photonic Crystal‐Driven Spectral Concentration for Upconversion Photovoltaics
Authors: Marques‐Hueso Jose , Peretti Romain , Abargues Rafael , Richards Bryce S. , Seassal Christian , Martínez‐Pastor Juan P.
Published: December 2014

The main challenge for applying upconversion (UC) to silicon photovoltaics is the limited amount of solar energy harvested directly via erbium‐based upconverter materials (24.5 W m–2). This could be increased up to 87.7 W m–2 via spectral concentration. Due to the nonlinear behavior of UC, this could increase the best UC emission by a factor 13. In this paper, the combined use of quantum dots (QDs)—for luminescent down‐shifting—and photonic crystals (PCs)—for reshaping the emission—to achieve spectral concentration is shown. This implies dealing with the coupling of colloidal QDs and PC at the high‐density regime, where the modes are shifted and broadened. In the first fabricated all‐optical devices, the spectral concentration rises by 67%, the QD emission that matches the absorption of erbium‐based upconverters increases by 158%, and the vertical emission experiences a 680% enhancement. Remarkably, the PC redshifts the overall emission of the QDs, which could be used to develop systems with low reabsorption losses. In light of this, spectral concentration should be regarded as one of the main strategies for UC photovoltaics.