bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A construção da "boa morte" em diferentes etapas da vida: reflexões em torno do ideário paliativista para adultos e crianças
Authors: Menezes Rachel Aisengart , Barbosa Patricia de Castro
Published: August 2013

Este artigo aborda o ideário dos Cuidados Paliativos, para uma trajetória na direção de uma "boa morte", para adultos e crianças. A partir do exame de livros-texto, manuais e artigos, de observação de cursos e congressos da especialidade, voltada a pacientes diagnosticados como "fora de possibilidades terapêuticas de cura", são examinadas as diferenças e semelhanças entre o atendimento a adultos e crianças. A equipe busca prestar uma assistência à "totalidade bio-psico-social-espiritual" do doente e de seus familiares, para propiciar "qualidade de vida" no tempo restante, com autonomia do enfermo e controle de seus sintomas. Segundo o modelo paliativista, os atores sociais envolvidos nos cuidados devem aceitar o término da vida. Trata-se de produzir uma "boa morte", "com dignidade", pacífica, tranquila, aceita, visível e compartilhada socialmente, com suporte da equipe multiprofissional. Tal configuração é complexa, pois diversos fatores e circunstâncias podem interferir, sobretudo no caso de crianças, quando se apresenta um paradoxo, uma vez que a ocorrência de doença terminal nesta etapa da vida - tão valorizada na cultura ocidental contemporânea - constitui um drama social.
La muerte como proceso: una perspectiva antropológica
Authors: Martínez Bárbara
Published: August 2013

Este artículo, desde una perspectiva antropológica, combina recientes aproximaciones que cuestionan la homología entre muerte y deceso biológico, con la tradición de estudios que revisan los rituales de muerte en el área geográfica andina. En particular, examina cómo se produce en El Cajón, Catamarca, noroeste argentino, la incorporación de un fallecido al esquema cosmológico, y cómo la muerte, que es un puntapié inicial para ello ocurra, no es meramente un evento biológico sino también un proceso social de gran dinamismo. A partir del trabajo de campo etnográfico, y tomando como herramientas metodológicas entrevistas abiertas de sesiones múltiples y observación participante, presenta una propuesta analítica que procura superar la homología entre muerte y deceso biológico, sugiriendo una noción que incluye la dimensión orgánica, pero también la social: el proceso de la muerte.
Analysis of the assembling phase of lattice slabs
Authors: Sartorti A. L. , Fontes A. C. , Pinheiro L. M.
Published: August 2013

Lattice slabs are usual in Brazil. They are formed by precast joists with latticed bars on a base of concrete, and a cover of concrete placed at the jobsite. The assembly of the joists and the filling elements is simple and do not require manpower with great skill, presenting low cost-benefit ratio. However, it is precisely in assembling phase that arise questions related to the scaffold support distance. A mistake in the proper positioning can lead to two undesirable situations. In one of them, a small space between the support lines increases the cost of scaffold, and in other an excessive space can generate exaggerated displacements, and even the collapse of the slab in the stage of concreting. The objective of this work is to analyze the bearing capacity of lattice joists in assembling phase, looking for information that is useful in defining the scaffold support distance. Several joists were tested to define the failure modes and their load bearing capacities. The results allowed to determine equations for calculating the appropriate distance between the support lines of the joists.
Bearing replacements for Forth Road Bridge approach viaducts
Authors: Colford Barry , Chiarello Manuela , Hendy Chris R. , Pouya Homayoon , Sandberg Jessica , Smout Paul
Published: August 2013

The existing Forth Road Bridge spans the Firth of Forth in Scotland. The main suspension bridge, with central span of 1006 m, has two multi-span approach viaducts leading up to the main crossing. The deck of the approach viaducts comprises a pair of longitudinal steel box girders supporting a series of transversely spanning steel girders, both acting compositely with a reinforced concrete deck. The steel girders of the approach viaducts are supported on steel roller and rocker bearings on concrete portal piers which vary in height between 11 m and 40 m. An initial study of the bearings identified that the rollers had locked up due to corrosion and distortion, and the concrete beneath the bearings and elsewhere on the pier tops had deteriorated due to chloride contamination. Assessment showed that structural deficiencies in the pier were exacerbated by both the concrete deterioration and change in articulation. These factors led to the decision to replace all the bearings on the viaducts. This paper outlines the design of the strengthening and modifications to the bridge to facilitate bearing replacement, together with a detailed description of the design of the temporary works needed to maintain the bridge's articulation during jacking.
Design and static analysis of the Taizhou Yangtze River Bridge, China
Authors: Zhang Min , Wan Tianbao , Wang Yingliang
Published: August 2013

The Taizhou Yangtze River Bridge in China is a triple-pylon suspension bridge with double main spans of 1080 m; it is the world's first triple-pylon suspension bridge with double main spans larger than 1000 m. This paper presents the general design feature and innovation, global static analysis and construction of the main channel bridge, including the introduction of the general behaviour of a triple-pylon suspension bridge, the foundation and block of anchorages, foundation and shaft of pylons, steel box girder, main cable, cable band, main cable saddle, splay saddle, as well as the friction factor experiment between the main cable and main saddle.
Troponin
Authors: Ottinger Daniele , Nash Patricia
Published: August 2013

Troponin T and I can be found within the myocardial filaments. Measuring these cardiac troponin levels in full-term newborns and premature infants has not become a common practice in the neonatal intensive care unit and newborn nurseries. Research studies are discovering that an elevation in troponin T and I levels can be directly correlated with the severity of the infant’s illness, and it can be potentially prognostic of morbidity. This literature analysis discusses what can be considered normal cardiac troponin levels along with what elevated levels are and possible conditions associated with those elevations.
Effects of salinity on photoreactivation of Escherichia coli after UV disinfection
Authors: Oguma Kumiko , Izaki Kentaro , Katayama Hiroyuki
Published: August 2013

The effects of sodium chloride on photoreactivation of Escherichia coli were examined, assuming the discharge of ultraviolet (UV)-treated wastewater to water environment at different salinities. Suspensions of E. coli were first exposed to a low-pressure UV lamp in phosphate buffer to achieve 3 log inactivation, followed by an exposure to fluorescent light in NaCl solutions at the concentration of 1.0, 1.4, 1.9, 2.4 and 2.9 weight/volume %. When photoreactivation was completed in 3 h, survival ratio was recovered about 2 log in 1.0, 1.4, and 1.9% NaCl solutions, which was equivalent to the recovery observed in phosphate-buffered solution. Meanwhile, the recovery was suppressed to 0.8 log and −0.2 log in 2.4 and 2.9% NaCl solutions, respectively, which was significantly less than the recovery in phosphate buffer according to the t-test (p < 0.05). An endonuclease sensitive site assay demonstrated that the suppressed photoreactivation in 2.9% NaCl solution was due to the failure at repairing UV-induced pyrimidine dimers in the genome. In conclusion, photoreactivation of E. coli was significantly suppressed in NaCl solution at 2.4% or higher but not affected in NaCl solution at 1.9% or lower. This implies that photoreactivation of E. coli may potentially occur in brackish and coastal areas where salinity is rather low.
Mechanisms of post-supply contamination of drinking water in Bagamoyo, Tanzania
Authors: Harris Angela R. , Davis Jennifer , Boehm Alexandria B.
Published: August 2013

Access to household water connections remains low in sub-Saharan Africa, representing a public health concern. Previous studies have shown water stored in the home to be more contaminated than water at the source; however, the mechanisms of post-supply contamination remain unclear. Using water quality measurements and structured observations of households in Bagamoyo, Tanzania, this study elucidates the causal mechanisms of the microbial contamination of drinking water after collection from a communal water source. The study identifies statistically significant loadings of fecal indicator bacteria (FIB) occurring immediately after filling the storage container at the source and after extraction of the water from the container in the home. Statistically significant loadings of FIB also occur with various water extraction methods, including decanting from the container and use of a cup or ladle. Additionally, pathogenic genes of Escherichia coli were detected in stored drinking water but not in the source from which it was collected, highlighting the potential health risks of post-supply contamination. The results of the study confirm that storage containers and extraction utensils introduce microbial contamination into stored drinking water, and suggest that further research is needed to identify methods of water extraction that prevent microbial contamination of drinking water.
Quantification of human norovirus GII, human adenovirus, and fecal indicator organisms in wastewater used for irrigation in Accra, Ghana
Authors: Silverman Andrea I. , Akrong Mark O. , Amoah Philip , Drechsel Pay , Nelson Kara L.
Published: August 2013

Quantitative microbial risk assessment (QMRA) is frequently used to estimate health risks associated with wastewater irrigation and requires pathogen concentration estimates as inputs. However, human pathogens, such as viruses, are rarely quantified in water samples, and simple relationships between fecal indicator bacteria and pathogen concentrations are used instead. To provide data that can be used to refine QMRA models of wastewater-fed agriculture in Accra, stream, drain, and waste stabilization pond waters used for irrigation were sampled and analyzed for concentrations of fecal indicator microorganisms (human-specific Bacteroidales, Escherichia coli, enterococci, thermotolerant coliform, and somatic and F+ coliphages) and two human viruses (adenovirus and norovirus genogroup II). E. coli concentrations in all samples exceeded limits suggested by the World Health Organization, and human-specific Bacteroidales was found in all but one sample, suggesting human fecal contamination. Human viruses were detected in 16 out of 20 samples, were quantified in 12, and contained 2–3 orders of magnitude more norovirus than predicted by norovirus to E. coli concentration ratios assumed in recent publications employing indicator-based QMRA. As wastewater irrigation can be beneficial for farmers and municipalities, these results should not discourage water reuse in agriculture, but provide motivation and targets for wastewater treatment before use on farms.
Inactivation of Ascaris eggs in water using hydrogen peroxide and a Fenton type nanocatalyst (FeOx/C) synthesized by a novel hybrid production process
Authors: Morales Ariadna A. , Schouwenaars Rafael , Pfeiffer Heriberto , Ramírez-Zamora Rosa María
Published: August 2013

Inactivation tests of Ascaris eggs (Ae) were performed using hydrogen peroxide and a Fenton type nanocatalyst supported on activated carbon (AC) (FeOx/C). Blank inactivation tests were also carried out using H2O2 and H2O2/AC as oxidation systems. The FeOx/C nanocatalyst was synthesized through a novel hybrid method developed in this work. The method is based on the incipient impregnation technique, using isopropyl alcohol as dissolvent and chelating agent of the iron salt and the ultrasonic method. The supported nanocatalyst contained 2.61% w/w of total iron and the support 0.2% w/w. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM)–energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS) images permitted verification of the presence of finely dispersed FeOx nanoparticles, with sizes ranging from 19 to 63 nm. SEM–EDS analysis and TEM images also showed good dispersion of iron oxide nanoparticles, most probably maghemite; γ-Fe2O3, able to produce hydroperoxyl radical as reported in the literature. The FeOx/C nanocatalyst-H2O2 system showed an average Ae inactivation efficiency of 4.46% Ae/mg H2O2. This value is significantly higher than the result obtained using the support-H2O2 system and H2O2 alone and it is also better than data reported for the classical Fenton process (homogeneous phase) with or without UV light.
Comparative study of disinfectants for use in low-cost gravity driven household water purifiers
Authors: Patil Rajshree A. , Kausley Shankar B. , Balkunde Pradeep L. , Malhotra Chetan P.
Published: August 2013

Point-of-use (POU) gravity-driven household water purifiers have been proven to be a simple, low-cost and effective intervention for reducing the impact of waterborne diseases in developing countries. The goal of this study was to compare commonly used water disinfectants for their feasibility of adoption in low-cost POU water purifiers. The potency of each candidate disinfectant was evaluated by conducting a batch disinfection study for estimating the concentration of disinfectant needed to inactivate a given concentration of the bacterial strain Escherichia coli ATCC 11229. Based on the concentration of disinfectant required, the size, weight and cost of a model purifier employing that disinfectant were estimated. Model purifiers based on different disinfectants were compared and disinfectants which resulted in the most safe, compact and inexpensive purifiers were identified. Purifiers based on bromine, tincture iodine, calcium hypochlorite and sodium dichloroisocyanurate were found to be most efficient, cost effective and compact with replacement parts costing US$3.60–6.00 for every 3,000 L of water purified and are thus expected to present the most attractive value proposition to end users.
Water quality perceptions and willingness to pay for clean water in peri-urban Cambodian communities
Authors: Orgill Jennifer , Shaheed Ameer , Brown Joe , Jeuland Marc
Published: August 2013

This paper studies household demand for improved water quality in peri-urban Cambodia, with particular attention paid to the influence of water quality on willingness to pay (WTP). Utilizing data from 915 household surveys, we analyze responses to a contingent valuation scenario using multivariate logit regression techniques that account for subjective perceptions of water quality. We estimate a mean household WTP for improved water quality of US$3 (roughly 1.2% of mean income) per month for households in this sample. We also find that the majority of households believe that their in-house water after storage, handling, and treatment is safe to drink. Furthermore, beliefs about existing levels of water quality have a significant impact on WTP for improved water quality. However, while perceptions of quality (and thus WTP) are highly related to taste preferences, actual water quality is relatively uncorrelated with water quality perceptions. These findings suggest that interventions aiming to increase the adoption of water treatment should account for underlying perceptions of water quality.
Potable water scarcity: options and issues in the coastal areas of Bangladesh
Authors: Atikul Islam Md. , Sakakibara Hiroyuki , Karim Md. Rezaul , Sekine Masahiko
Published: August 2013

In the coastal areas of Bangladesh, scarcity of drinking water is acute as freshwater aquifers are not available at suitable depths and surface water is highly saline. Households are mainly dependent on rainwater harvesting, pond sand filters and pond water for drinking purposes. Thus, individuals in these areas often suffer from waterborne diseases. In this paper, water consumption behaviour in two southwestern coastal districts of Bangladesh has been investigated. The data for this study were collected through a survey conducted on 750 rural households in 39 villages of the study area. The sample was selected using a random sampling technique. Households' choice of water source is complex and seasonally dependent. Water sourcing patterns, households' preference of water sourcing options and economic feasibility of options suggest that a combination of household and community-based options could be suitable for year-round water supply. Distance and time required for water collection were found to be difficult for water collection from community-based options. Both household and community-based options need regular maintenance. In addition to installation of water supply facilities, it is necessary to make the residents aware of proper operation and maintenance of the facilities.
Comparative Effects of Preoperative Angiotensin-converting Enzyme In-hibitor, Statin and Beta-blocker Treatment on Human Internal Mammary Artery Reactivity in Patients with Coronary Artery Disease: A Pilot Study
Authors: Dalaklioglu Selvinaz , Golbasi Ilhan , Ogutman Caglar
Published: August 2013

Purpose:

We investigated the effect of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE)- inhibitor, statin, and beta-blocker usage before coronary bypass surgery (CABG) on vascular reactivity of the internal mammary artery (IMA).

Methods:

Patients, who underwent elective CABG were evaluated. Samples of IMA obtained from 22 patients were divided into 4 groups in respect of drugs used by patients before bypass surgery (control group, ACE inhibitor + statin group, ACE inhibitor + statin + beta-blocker group, and ACE inhibitor + beta-blocker group). The discarded, distal end section of IMA was carefully removed, and the vasoreactivity of IMA rings was evaluated in vitro using an organ chamber. Smooth muscle contractile function was tested on artery segments exposed to 10-80 mM KCl and norepinephrine. The endothelial function of IMA rings was assessed with acetylcholine (ACh) and bradykinin, while endothelium-independent vasorelaxation was evaluated by sodium nitroprusside (SNP).

Results:

Both ACh and bradykinin caused concentration-dependent relaxation in endothelium-intact IMA rings. However, the maximal effect produced by endothelium-dependent agents in all treatment groups was more prominent when compared with the control group. There was no significant difference in the endothelium-dependent relaxation response of IMA between ACE inhibitor + statin, ACE inhibitor + beta-blocker and ACE inhibitor + statin + beta-blocker groups. The vasodilatory potency of SNP was similar in all groups. Similarly, contractile response to KCl or norepinephrine was not significantly different between groups.

Conclusion:

Use of ACE inhibitors and statins before bypass surgery may influence IMA vasoreactivity by improving endothelial control of vascular tone.
Retention Loss of Resin Based Fissure Sealants - a Valid Predictor for Clinical Outcome?
Authors: Mickenautsch Steffen , Yengopal Veerasamy
Published: August 2013

Purpose:

The null-hypothesis that retention loss of resin fissure sealants predicts caries manifestation no more accurately than random values was tested.

Methods:

Systematic reviews were checked and electronic databases searched for clinical trials. Trials reporting on the retention of resin sealants and caries occurrence in permanent molar teeth, with minimum 24-month follow-up period, were included. Extracted data: number of sealed teeth, number of teeth without completely retained sealants, number of sealed teeth with caries. The number of teeth with complete sealant retention and absence of carious lesions/cavities was calculated; the predictive outcomes: true/false positive; false/true negative were established. Random values were generated as control-data. Diagnostic Odds ratios (DOR) were computed and tested for statistical difference. Summary Receiver Operating Characteristic curves were plotted.

Results:

95 trials were found. Median DOR values were 1.21 and 0.28 for test- and control data, respectively. Wilcoxon test (z = 0.56; p = 0.58) and Sign test (z = 1.38; p = 0.17) results were statistically non-significant. The null-hypothesis was not rejected.

Conclusions:

Predictions based on the retention loss of resin sealants, regarding caries manifestation, was no more accurate than random guesses. Sealant retention loss appears not to be a valid predictor for clinical outcome.
Increased RP105-Negative B Cells in IgG4-Related Disease
Authors: Koarada S , Tashiro S , Nagao N , Suematsu R , Ohta A , Tada Y
Published: August 2013

Four patients with IgG4-related disease (IgG4-RD) showed increased percentages of RP105-negative B cells in the peripheral blood. Case 1: A 66-year-old man having retroperitoneal fibrosis had 18.8% of RP105-negative B cells. Oral prednisolone improved the affected lesions and the percentage of RP105-negative B cells decreased (3.2%) after the treatment. Case 2: A 53-year-old man with retroperitoneal fibrosis had 27.9% of RP105-negative B cells. Case 3: A 38-year-old man with follicular hyperplasia showed increased percentage of RP105-negative B cells (8.3%). Case 4: A 60-year-old man with interstitial nephritis had 27.5% of RP105-negative B cells. The treatment decreased the numbers of RP105-negative B cells. Increased numbers of RP105-negatvie B cells is possibly associated with disease activity of IgG4-RD. Analysis of expression of RP105 on B cells may be helpful in evaluation of disease activity of IgG4-RD.
Transmission of Signals from Rats Receiving High Doses of Microbeam Radiation to Cage Mates: An Inter-Mammal Bystander Effect
Authors: Mothersill Carmel , Fernandez-Palomo Cristian , Fazzari Jennifer , Smith Richard , Schültke Elisabeth , Bräuer-Krisch Elke , Laissue Jean , Schroll Christian , Seymour Colin
Published: August 2013

Inter-animal signaling from irradiated to non-irradiated organisms has been demonstrated for whole body irradiated mice and also for fish. The aim of the current study was to look at radiotherapy style limited exposure to part of the body using doses relevant in preclinical therapy. High dose homogenous field irradiation and the use of irradiation in the microbeam radiation therapy mode at the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility (ESRF) at Grenoble was tested by giving high doses to the right brain hemisphere of the rat. The right and left cerebral hemispheres and the urinary bladder were later removed to determine whether abscopal effects could be produced in the animals and also whether effects occurred in cage mates housed with them. The results show strong bystander signal production in the contra-lateral brain hemisphere and weaker effects in the distant bladder of the irradiated rats. Signal strength was similar or greater in each tissue in the cage mates housed for 48hrs with the irradiated rats. Our results support the hypothesis that proximity to an irradiated animal induces signalling changes in an unirradiated partner. If similar signaling occurs between humans, the results could have implications for caregivers and hospital staff treating radiotherapy patients.
Extending bicolorings for Steiner triple systems
Authors: Gionfriddo M. , Guardo E. , Milazzo L.
Published: August 2013

We initiate the study of extended bicolorings of Steiner triple systems (STS)
which start with a k-bicoloring of an STS(v) and end up with a k-bicoloring
of an STS(2v + 1) obtained by a doubling construction, using only the
original colors used in coloring the subsystem STS(v). By producing many
such extended bicolorings, we obtain several infinite classes of orders for
which there exist STSs with different lower and upper chromatic number.
Evaluation of mandibular volume using cone-beam computed tomography and correlation with cephalometric values
Authors: Katayama Koshu , Yamaguchi Tetsutaro , Sugiura Mami , Haga Shugo , Maki Koutaro
Published: August 2013

Objective:

To investigate the association between maxillofacial morphology and mandibular bone volume in patients with skeletal malocclusion.

Materials and Methods:

Subjects were 118 adult Japanese (58 males and 60 females). Skeletal malocclusion was classified, based on cephalometric analysis, into skeletal Classes I (−1° ≤ ANB < 4°), II (ANB ≥ 4°), and III (ANB < −1°). Using cone-beam computed tomography and three-dimensional image analysis software, the dental crowns and mandible were separated, with only the mandible extracted. This was then reconstructed as a three-dimensional model, from which the mandibular volume was measured.

Results:

No significant difference in mandibular volume was noted among skeletal Classes I, II, and III, nor was there any significant correlation between mandibular volume and the ANB, SNB, or mandibular plane angles. There was occasional and limited correlation between mandible volume and gonial angle and certain cephalometric distance parameters.

Conclusion:

We conclude that proper understanding of the three-dimensional maxillofacial morphology requires not only cephalometric radiographic tracings but also high-resolution analysis of the mandibular area, width, and volume.
Esthetic comparison of white-spot lesion treatment modalities using spectrometry and fluorescence
Authors: Yuan He , Li Jiyao , Chen Liang , Cheng Lei , Cannon Richard D. , Mei Li
Published: August 2013

Objective:

To compare the esthetic improvements of white-spot lesions (WSLs) treated by fluoride, casein phosphopeptide amorphous calcium phosphate (CPP-ACP), or resin infiltration.

Materials and Methods:

WSLs were created on human enamel and randomly assigned to four groups: NaF (500 ppm), CPP-ACP, resin infiltration (Icon), or distilled deionized water (DDW; control group). The color change (ΔE) of each specimen was measured with a Crystaleye spectrophotometer, and fluorescence loss (ΔQ) was measured by quantitative light-induced fluorescence (QLF), at different time points after treatment: baseline (0 weeks), 2 weeks, 4 weeks, and 6 weeks.

Results:

The ΔE and ΔQ baseline values for the four groups before the treatments did not differ significantly. Icon treatment improved the WSL color significantly and gave the lowest ΔE (2.9 ± 1.2 on average) compared with other treatments (P < .01). The Icon treatment also resulted in a significant change in the ΔQ of WSLs compared with baseline (P < .01). In the NaF and CPP-ACP treatment groups, ΔQ showed significant recovery compared with the baseline values only after 4 weeks after treatment (P < .05).

Conclusions:

Resin infiltration is more effective than NaF or CPP-ACP in providing esthetic improvement of WSLs.
A qualitative analysis of orthodontic-related posts on Twitter
Authors: Rachel Henzell M. , Margaret Knight A. , Morgaine K. C. , S. Antoun J. , Farella M.
Published: August 2013

Objective:

To investigate the content of orthodontic-related Twitter posts in order to improve our understanding of orthodontic patients' perceptions and treatment experiences.

Materials and Methods:

Some 131 consecutive posts were collected from Twitter over a 5-day period. Twitter's advanced-search function was used to limit the sampling frame to New Zealand. The posts were qualitatively analyzed for themes using discourse analysis.

Results:

Four main themes were identified: (1) excitement about getting braces off, (2) problems with braces, (3) positive comments about braces, and (4) negative comments about braces. Various language tools and symbols were often used to convey different degrees of emotion. The present study explores these themes and discusses how they relate to modern-age orthodontics.

Conclusion:

This is the first study to qualitatively analyze orthodontic-related posts in the social media era. Our findings suggest that orthodontic patients use social media sites such as Twitter to convey positive and negative feelings about braces.
Philometra johnii sp. nov. (Nematoda, Philometridae), a new gonad-infecting philometrid from the sin croaker Johnius dussumieri (Cuvier) (Perciformes, Sciaenidae) from marine waters of Iraq
Authors: Moravec František , Ali Atheer
Published: August 2013

A new nematode species, Philometra johnii sp. nov. (Philometridae), is described from male and female specimens found in the ovary of the sin croaker, Johnius dussumieri (Cuvier) (Perciformes, Sciaenidae), in the Arabian Gulf, off the southern coast of Iraq. Based on light and scanning electron microscopical examination, the new species differs from all other gonad-infecting Philometra spp. with dorsal lamella-like structures on the distal tip of the gubernaculum in having a dorsal bipartite protuberance formed by two subdorsal lamellated parts separated from each other by a smooth longitudinal field. This gubernaculum structure is unique among all philometrids. Other distinguishing features include the structure of the male tail, number (6 pairs) and arrangement of genital papillae and the length of spicules (102–153 μm). From eight congeneric, gonad-infecting species with unknown males, the new species can be distinguished by some morphological and biometrical features found in gravid females (absence of caudal projections, length of oesophagus, moderately developed anterior oesophageal inflation, length of first-stage larvae) by the host type (fish family) and geographical distribution. Philometra johnii sp. nov. is the fourth known philometrid species recorded from marine waters of Iraq.
Effects of Schistosoma mansoni infection on lutein and β-carotene concentrations in Biomphalaria glabrata snails as determined by quantitative high performance reversed phase thin-layer chromatography
Authors: Dieterich Nicole , Fried Bernard , Sherma Joseph
Published: August 2013

High performance thin-layer chromatography was used to determine the concentration of β-carotene and lutein in the whole body and digestive gland-gonad complex (DGG) of uninfected Biomphalaria glabrata snails and those infected with Schistosoma mansoni for 6 and 8 weeks. Pigments were extracted from the snails using acetone and separated on EMD Millipore reversed phase C-18 plates with concentration zone using petroleum ether-acetonitrile-methanol (1:1:2) mobile phase. After development, two yellow pigment zones, lutein and β-carotene, were identified with respective R f values of 0.55 and 0.13 and then quantified by densitometry. Statistical analysis of the weight percentages of each pigment showed a significant decrease (P < 0.05) in the concentration of β-carotene in the DGGs of infected B. glabrata at 6 and 8 weeks post-infection compared to the uninfected snails. No significant differences were seen in the concentrations of β-carotene in the whole body of the uninfected versus infected snail samples. Changes in the lutein concentration of the infected DGG and whole snail bodies were insignificant compared to the uninfected controls. In conclusion, larval S. mansoni infection caused a significant decrease in the β-carotene concentration of the DGG at 6 and 8 weeks post infection.
Molecular identification of cryptic species of Ceratomyxa Thélohan, 1892 (Myxosporea: Bivalvulida) including the description of eight novel species from apogonid fishes (Perciformes: Apogonidae) from Australian waters
Authors: Heiniger Holly , Adlard Robert
Published: August 2013

Ceratomyxa parasites from the gall bladders of 23 species of cardinalfishes (family Apogonidae) from Australian waters were examined for their taxonomic identity and phylogenetic relatedness. We identified 15 of the 23 apogonid fish species infected with species of Ceratomyxa. Although the majority of apogonid species harboured only a single Ceratomyxa species, four were found with multiple species of Ceratomyxa. This study describes eight novel species using a combination of morphological, small subunit ribosomal DNA (SSU rDNA) and biological characters. Six Ceratomyxa species are reported from single apogonid species, while two are reported from multiple host species. Molecular data were critical in identifying several morphologically cryptic species. However, our results suggest that SSU rDNA was not capable of distinguishing all the species present in the current study system and alternative genetic markers should be investigated in the future.
Occurrence and genetic characterization of Toxoplasma gondii in naturally infected pigs
Authors: Turčeková Ľudmila , Antolová Daniela , Reiterová Katarína , Spišák František
Published: August 2013

The protozoan Toxoplasma gondii is an obligate intracellular parasite that infects a wide range of warm-blooded vertebrates. The data about the occurrence of toxoplasmosis in slaughter pigs in the Slovak Republic are still missing. The aim of our study was to estimate the prevalence of toxoplasmosis in pigs from Slovakia during the period of 2006–2010 by ELISA and PCR methods. In sera of 970 slaughter pigs, 2.16% seropositivity to T. gondii was detected. In tissue samples of seropositive pigs the presence of T. gondii DNA was confirmed. In six monitored Slovak regions the seropositivity varied between 1.11 and 3.48%. The statistically significant differences were recorded between the Košice and Prešov region. The seroprevalence of toxoplasmosis in sows (4.26%) was two times higher than that in slaughter pigs (2.06%) (OR = 2.12; 95% CI = 0.48–9.36). Presence of Toxoplasma gondii in tissues of seropositive pig isolates was confirmed by TGR1E and B1 genes and analysis of DNA polymorphism at SAG2 and ROP1 genes revealed the presence of virulent strain of genotype I in 85.7% of infected pigs and an avirulent strain (genotype II) in 14.3% of pigs.
Influence of debris cover on terminus retreat and mass changes of Chorabari Glacier, Garhwal region, central Himalaya, India
Authors: Dobhal D.P. , Mehta Manish , Srivastava Deepak
Published: August 2013

Recent studies of Himalayan glacier recession indicate that there is wide variability in terminus retreat rate and mass balance in the different sectors of the mountain range, primarily linked to the topography and climate of the region. Variable retreat rates of glacier termini and inadequate supporting field data (e.g. mass balance, ice thickness, velocity, etc.) in the Himalayan glaciers make it difficult to develop a coherent picture of climate change impacts. In this study, the results of a detailed mapping campaign and ground-based measurements of ablation rate, terminus retreat and ice loss are reported for the period 2003–10. In addition, background information from an old glacier map (Survey of India, 1962) was compiled and terminus recession measurements were carried out from 1990 field photographs of Chorabari Glacier, central Himalaya. Our ablation stake network results suggest that the influence of debris cover is significant for Chorabari Glacier mass balance and terminus retreat. The terminus survey finds that the glacier is retreating, but at a lower rate than many other non-debriscovered glaciers in the region. The recession and ablation data (particularly in the upper ablation area at higher altitudes) suggest that the ice volume loss of the glaciers is of greater magnitude than the slow terminus retreat and, if the process continues, the lowermost part of the glacier may reduce to a quasi-stationary position while significant ice loss continues.
High-resolution variations in size, number and arrangement of air bubbles in the EPICA DML (Antarctica) ice core
Authors: Bendel Verena , Ueltzhöffer Kai J. , Freitag Johannes , Kipfstuhl Sepp , Kuhs Werner F. , Garbe Christoph S. , Faria Sérgio H.
Published: August 2013

We investigated the large-scale (10–1000 m) and small-scale (mm–cm) variations in size, number and arrangement of air bubbles in the EPICA Dronning Maud Land (EDML) (Antarctica) ice core, down to the end of the bubble/hydrate transition (BHT) zone. On the large scale, the bubble number density shows a general correlation with the palaeo-temperature proxy, δ18O, and the dust concentration, which means that in Holocene ice there are fewer bubbles than in glacial ice. Small-scale variations in bubble number and size were identified and compared. Above the BHT zone there exists a strong anticorrelation between bubble number density and mean bubble size. In glacial ice, layers of high number density and small bubble size are linked with layers with high impurity content, identified as cloudy bands. Therefore, we regard impurities as a controlling factor for the formation and distribution of bubbles in glacial ice. The anticorrelation inverts in the middle of the BHT zone. In the lower part of the BHT zone, bubble-free layers exist that are also associated with cloudy bands. The high contrast in bubble number density in glacial ice, induced by the impurities, indicates a much more pronounced layering in glacial firn than in modern firn.
‘Dependent on precarious subsistences’: Ireland's Slave-owners at the Time of Emancipation
Authors: Draper Nicholas
Published: August 2013

When the United Kingdom Parliament abolished slavery in most of its colonies in 1833, it provided £20 million to compensate the slave-owners. At least half of the compensation payments for the Caribbean were made to absentee owners and creditors living in Britain and Ireland. While slave-ownership was only one way in which the Atlantic slave-economy came home to Ireland, the records of such payments, now digitised and available online at www.ucl.ac.uk/lbs/ , allow analysis of the structure of slave-ownership in Ireland at the end of the colonial slave-system. In contrast to England and, especially, to Scotland, slave-owners of Irish origin showed a much lower propensity to return home as absentees. Nevertheless, both in Ireland and within the Irish diaspora in London, Liverpool and Glasgow are striking instances of slave-owners whose legacies helped shape Ireland's commercial, cultural and physical fabric in the early nineteenth century.
Marx's Reading of Adam Ferguson and the Idea of Progress
Authors: Hill Jack A.
Published: August 2013

Karl Marx misappropriated Ferguson's thought even though he championed the Scot's remarks on the division of labor. The argument is developed by examining Marx's specific quotations of Ferguson in literary context and by critiquing Marx's quotations in light of three ethical categories that are implicit in Ferguson's idea of progress. Marx not only presents a highly selective reading of Ferguson and espouses a view of history that is antithetical to Ferguson's idea of progress, but he fails to do justice to the complexity of Ferguson's moral philosophy, even if he viewed the Scot as something of a maverick like himself.
Extending the 4I Organizational Learning Model: Information Sources, Foraging Processes and Tools
Authors: Jenkin Tracy
Published: August 2013

The continued importance of organizational learning has recently led to several calls for further developing the theory. This article addresses these calls by extending Crossan, Lane and White’s (1999) 4I model to include a fifth process, information foraging, and a fourth level, the tool. The resulting 5I organizational learning model can be generalized to a number of learning contexts, especially those that involve understanding and making sense of data and information. Given the need for organizations to both innovate and increase productivity, and the volumes of data and information that are available to support both, the 5I model addresses an important organizational issue.
The Role of the Management Fashion Arena in the Cross-National Diffusion of Management Concepts: The Case of the Balanced Scorecard in the Scandinavian Countries
Authors: Madsen Dag , Slåtten Kåre
Published: August 2013

The diffusion of fashionable management concepts is an important research topic in management and organization studies. Researchers have pointed out that various actors such as consultants, conference organizers and the business media comprise the so-called “management fashion arena” around a management concept. However, a weakness of extant conceptualizations of management fashion arenas is in the lack of an explicit consideration of the dynamics between local and international actors. Drawing on the notion of “institutional duality”, we argue that the concept’s trajectory at the national level is shaped by both country-specific actors and international actors. Furthermore, we recognize that the presence and involvement of different types of actors may vary across different countries. Empirically, we analyze the level of involvement of actors such as consultants, professional groups, software firms, and conference organizers in the cross-national diffusion of the Balanced Scorecard (BSC) in the three Scandinavian countries. The comparative analysis of the data shows both similarities and differences between the three countries in terms of which actors have been the most influential players. Despite certain similarities and overlaps, the three markets can be considered largely national with key local players. Furthermore, country-specific actors appear to have played a particularly important role in the early phase in terms of establishing the concept in the local markets. These findings are used to elaborate on present conceptualizations of the management fashion arena, and to discuss the role of local and international actors in the cross-national diffusion of management concepts.
Pre-Calving and Calving Management Practices in Dairy Herds with a History of High or Low Bovine Perinatal Mortality
Authors: Mee John , Grant Jim , Sánchez-Miguel Cosme , Doherty Michael
Published: August 2013

Bovine perinatal mortality is an increasing problem in dairy industries internationally. The objective of this study was to determine the risk factors associated with high and low herd-level calf mortality. Thirty herds with a history of either high (case) or low (control) calf mortality were recruited. A herd-level questionnaire was used to gather information on management practices likely to impact bovine perinatal mortality. The questionnaire was divided into four subsections dealing with pre-calving (breeding, diet and body condition score, endemic infectious diseases) and calving factors. Most of the significant differences between case and control herds were found in calving management. For example, in case herds, pregnant cattle were less likely to be moved to the calving unit two or more days and more likely to be moved less than 12 hours pre-calving, they were also less likely to calve in group-calving facilities and their calves were more likely to receive intranasal or hypothermal resuscitation. These management procedures may cause social isolation and periparturient psychogenic uterine atony leading to dystocia, more weak calves requiring resuscitation and high perinatal calf mortality. The key finding is that calving, not pre-calving, management appears to be the most important area of concern in herds with high perinatal mortality.
Antimicrobial Stewardship: The Need to Cover All Bases
Authors: Friedman N.
Published: August 2013

Increasing antimicrobial resistance has necessitated an approach to guide the use of antibiotics. The necessity to guide antimicrobial use via stewardship has never been more urgent. The decline in anti-infective innovation and the failure of currently available antimicrobials to treat some serious infections forces clinicians to change those behaviors that drive antimicrobial resistance. The majority of antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) programs function in acute-care hospitals, however, hospitals are only one setting where antibiotics are prescribed. Antimicrobial use is also high in residential aged care facilities and in the community. Prescribing in aged care is influenced by the fact that elderly residents have lowered immunity, are susceptible to infection and are frequently colonized with multi-resistant organisms. While in the community, prescribers are faced with public misconceptions about the effectiveness of antibiotics for many upper respiratory tract illnesses. AMS programs in all of these locations must be sustainable over a long period of time in order to be effective. A future with effective antimicrobials to treat bacterial infection will depend on AMS covering all of these bases. This review discusses AMS in acute care hospitals, aged care and the community and emphasizes that AMS is critical to patient safety and relies on government, clinician and community engagement.
Myelin Recovery in Multiple Sclerosis: The Challenge of Remyelination
Authors: Podbielska Maria , Banik Naren , Kurowska Ewa , Hogan Edward
Published: August 2013

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is the most common demyelinating and an autoimmune disease of the central nervous system characterized by immune-mediated myelin and axonal damage, and chronic axonal loss attributable to the absence of myelin sheaths. T cell subsets (Th1, Th2, Th17, CD8+, NKT, CD4+CD25+ T regulatory cells) and B cells are involved in this disorder, thus new MS therapies seek damage prevention by resetting multiple components of the immune system. The currently approved therapies are immunoregulatory and reduce the number and rate of lesion formation but are only partially effective. This review summarizes current understanding of the processes at issue: myelination, demyelination and remyelination—with emphasis upon myelin composition/ architecture and oligodendrocyte maturation and differentiation. The translational options target oligodendrocyte protection and myelin repair in animal models and assess their relevance in human. Remyelination may be enhanced by signals that promote myelin formation and repair. The crucial question of why remyelination fails is approached is several ways by examining the role in remyelination of available MS medications and avenues being actively pursued to promote remyelination including: (i) cytokine-based immune-intervention (targeting calpain inhibition), (ii) antigen-based immunomodulation (targeting glycolipid-reactive iNKT cells and sphingoid mediated inflammation) and (iii) recombinant monoclonal antibodies-induced remyelination.
Protein Kinase C Epsilon Contributes to NADPH Oxidase Activation in a Pre-Eclampsia Lymphoblast Cell Model
Authors: Poolman Toryn , Quinn Paulene , Ng Leong
Published: August 2013

Pre-eclampsia is a pregnancy-specific disorder characterised by hypertension and proteinuria, which in severe cases results in multi-system disturbances. The maternal syndrome is associated with a pro-inflammatory state, consisting of leukocyte activation, which is thought to contribute to the widespread endothelial dysfunction. We previously showed increased activation of NADPH oxidase in pre-eclampsia, in both neutrophils and B-lymphoblast cell lines (B-LCLs). In this study, the mechanism by which NADPH oxidase activity is increased in pre-eclampsia was further investigated. NADPH oxidase activity was found to be increased in phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate (PMA) stimulated B-LCLs isolated from women with pre-eclampsia. This correlated with an increase in protein kinase C (PKC) substrate phosphorylation, p47-phox phosphorylation (a regulatory component of NADPH oxidase) and p47-phox directed-kinase activity. Using ion exchange and hydroxyapatite chromatography we identified a major peak of PMA regulated p47-phox kinase activity. Chromatography fractions were probed for PKC isoforms. We found the major peak of p47-phox kinase activity could not be separated from the elution profile of PKC epsilon. Using a peptide inhibitor of PKC epsilon, PMA-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) production could be reduced to that of a normal B-LCL. These data suggest a pro-inflammatory role for PKC epsilon in the pathogenesis of pre-eclampsia.