bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Intraoperative Corneal Stromal Pocket Irrigation in Small Incision Lenticule Extraction
Authors: Liu Yu-Chi , Jayasinghe Lasitha , Ang Heng Pei , Lwin Nyein Chan , Yam Gary Hin Fai , Mehta Jodhbir S.
Published: July 2015

This study aimed at evaluating the effect of intraoperative corneal pocket irrigation in small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) and compares it to that in femtosecond laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (FS-LASIK). Sixteen rabbit eyes underwent a SMILE procedure, with 8 eyes having corneal pocket irrigation, while the other 8 eyes were without irrigation. Another 16 eyes underwent a FS-LASIK procedure for comparison, with 8 eyes having flap irrigation, while the other 8 eyes were without irrigation. The results showed that the changes in the total corneal thickness, anterior and posterior lamellar thickness, measured by the anterior segment optical coherence tomography, were comparable between the SMILE with and without irrigation groups, suggesting that the irrigation did not lead to significant changes in the corneal thickness. However, at postoperative 8 hours, in vivo confocal microscopy showed that the interface reflectivity in the SMILE with irrigation group was significantly higher than that in other three groups. The presence of interface fluid was further confirmed by the identification of fluid pockets with undulated collagen shown on histological section in the post-SMILE with irrigation eyes. Our findings might contribute to the occurrence of post-SMILE delayed immediate visual quality recovery and further clinical study is required.
Using a Historical Lens to Envision the Next Generation of Genomic Translation Research
Authors: McBride Colleen M. , Abrams Leah R. , Koehly Laura M.
Published: July 2015

Background: The past 20 years have witnessed successive and exponential advances in genomic discovery and technology, with a broad scientific imperative pushing for continual advancements. The most consistent critique of these advances is that they have vastly outpaced translation of new knowledge into improvements in public health and medicine. Methods: We employ a historical and epistemological analysis to characterize how prevailing scientific meta-narratives have shaped the pace and priorities of research applying genomics to health promotion. We use four ‘pivotal events' - the genetic characterization of Down syndrome, the launch of the Human Genome Research Project, the discovery of BRCA1, and the emergence of direct-to- consumer genetic testing - to illustrate how these scientific meta-narratives have inhibited genomic translation research. Results: The notion that discovery should precede translation research has over-focused translation research on the latest genetic testing platform. The idea that genetic-related research has an exceptional potential for public harm has encouraged research on worst case scenarios. The perceived competition between genetics and social determinants of health has discouraged a unified research agenda to move genomic translation forward. Conclusion: We make a case for creating new scientific meta-narratives in which discovery and translation research agendas are envisioned as an interdependent enterprise.
Reviewing the Osteotropism in Neuroendocrine Tumors: The Role of Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition
Authors: Cives Mauro , Rizzo Francesca , Simone Valeria , Bisceglia Francesca , Stucci Stefania , Seeber Andreas , Spizzo Gilbert , Montrone Tiziana , Resta Leonardo , Silvestris Franco
Published: July 2015

Background: Neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) metastasize to the bone. However, the incidence, clinical features, management and pathogenesis of bone involvement in NET patients have been poorly investigated. Methods: We reviewed all published reports of histologically confirmed bone metastatic NETs and explored clinical, radiological, prognostic and therapeutic characteristics in a population of 152 patients. We then evaluated immunohistochemical expression of a panel of eight epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related factors including SNAIL, TGF-β1, CTGF, IL-11, PTHrP, EpCAM, CXCR4 and RANK in an independent cohort of 44 archival primary NETs. Biomarker expression was correlated with clinicopathological variables, including skeletal involvement, and tested for survival prediction. Results: We found that 55% of NET patients with bone metastases were male, with a median age of 55 years at diagnosis. Metastases were restricted to the skeleton in 34% of the NET population, and axial and osteoblastic lesions were prevalent. NETs differently expressed proteins involved in EMT activation. High CXCR4 (p < 0.0001) and low TGF-β1 levels (p = 0.0015) were significantly associated with increased risk of skeletal metastases, suggesting that EMT is implicated in NET osteotropism. By applying an algorithm measuring distinct immunohistochemical predictors of osteotropism on primary tumors, we were able to identify NET patients with bone metastases with a sensitivity and specificity of 91 and 100%, respectively (p < 0.0001). Patients whose primary tumors expressed CTGF (p = 0.0007) as well as the truncated form of EpCAM (p = 0.06) showed shorter survival. Conclusion: Although underestimated, bone metastases are a prominent feature of NETs, and the tumor expression of EMT markers at diagnosis may predict concurrent or subsequent skeleton colonization.
Phylogenetic relationships of the gray-toad agama, Phrynocephalus scutellatus (Olivier, 1807), species complex from Iran
Authors: RAHIMIAN HASSAN , SHAFIEI SOHEILA , POUYANI NASRULLA RASTEGAR , POUYANI ESKANDAR RASTEGAR
Published: July 2015

The gray toad agama, Phrynocephalus scutellatus (Olivier, 1807) species complex is confined to the Iranian plateau, and forms one of the most widespread, but rarely studied species of the family Agamidae. It represents a complex with many local populations inhabiting a variety of habitats, and exhibiting considerable morphological, genetic and ecological variations. We analyzed sequences of the mitochondrial ND2 gene and tRNA-Trp and tRNA-Ala derived from 89 geographically distant populations. The sequences data strongly support a basal separation of the populations of southeastern—south-central Iran from those occurring in the North. The subsequent radiation, fragmentation, and evolution of these major assemblages have led to four discernible geographical lineages in Iran: southeastern—south-central, west-central, east—northeastern and Khaf. The southeastern—south-central radiation is the earliest lineage and Khaf lineage is probably related to the Afghan plateau. Separation of northern clades from each other can be explained by the presence of large deserts in central Iran. Due to the lack of sufficient geological information, the divergence between the northern and southern clades cannot be explained by the present data.
Towards pathway‐centric cancer therapies via pharmacogenomic profiling analysis of ERK signalling pathway
Authors: Wang Haiyun , Zheng Xiaoqi , Fei Teng , Wang Jinzeng , Li Xujuan , Liu Yin , Zhang Fan
Published: July 2015

Background

Genomic heterogeneity in human cancers complicates gene‐centric personalized medicine. Malignant tumors often share a core group of pathways that are perturbed by diverse genetic mutations. Therefore, one possible solution to overcome the heterogeneity challenge is a shift from gene‐centric to pathway‐centric therapies. Pathway‐centric perspectives, which underscore the need to understand key pathways and their critical properties, could address the complexity of cancer heterogeneity better than gene‐centric approaches to aid cancer drug discovery and therapy.

Methods

We used large‐scale pharmacogenomic profiling data provided by the Cancer Genome Project of the Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute and the Cancer Cell Line Encyclopedia. In a systematic in silico investigation of ERK signalling pathway components and topological structures determines their influences on pathway activity and targeted therapies. Mann–Whitney U test was used to identify gene alterations associated with drug sensitivity withpvalues and Benjamini–Hochberg correction for multiple hypotheses testing.

Results

The analysis demonstrated that genetic alterations were crucial to activation of effector pathway and subsequent tumorigenesis, however drug sensitivity suffered from both drug effector and non‐effector pathways, which were determined by not only underlying genomic alterations, but also interplay and topological relationship of components in pathway, suggesting that the combinatorial targets of key nodes in perturbed pathways may yield better treatment outcome. Furthermore, we proposed a model to provide a more comprehensive insight and understanding of pathway‐centric cancer therapies.

Conclusions

Our study provides a holistic view of factors influencing drug sensitivity and sheds light on pathway‐centric cancer therapies.
Prevalence of depression among subjects with and without gestational diabetes mellitus in Bangladesh: a hospital based study
Authors: Natasha Khurshid , Hussain Akhtar , Khan A. K. Azad
Published: July 2015

Background

Data on association between depression and diabetes during the pregnancy period in Asia, specifically in Bangladesh are scarce. The study was designed to measure the prevalence of depression during pregnancy with or without Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM).

Methods

Seven hundred and forty eight pregnant women (382 with GDM, 366 without-GDM) attending at the Bangladesh Institute of Research and Rehabilitation in Diabetes, Endocrine and Metabolic Disorders, participated in the study. Blood glucose was measured following both WHO and ACOG criteria; GDM was diagnosed within 24–28 weeks. Depressive symptoms were assessed following MADRS scale. Semi-structured questionnaire was used to record their socio-demographic status and clinical and family history. Blood pressure, height, weight were also measured.

Results

Overall prevalence of depression was 18.32 %. Depression was higher in GDM subjects (25.92 %) compared to without-GDM subjects (10.38 %) with mean age of of 28.34 and 27.17 years respectively. Prevalence of depression was alarming in both the extreme of age. Dwelling place (P < 0.009) and past history of GDM (P < 0.018) had strong association with Depression. Higher prevalence of depression was found in Primipara whereas the risk of GDM increased with parity. Other obstetrical factors did not show any significant association with depression and GDM. Income (self and total family), physical exercise, sedentary lifestyle and workload had no significant statistical association with depression or GDM.

Conclusion

Higher rate of depression in pregnancy deserves medical attention especially women diagnosed with GDM. Further studies should estimate adverse pregnancy outcome for untreated depression especially in GDM cases.
Using Akaike's information theoretic criterion in mixed-effects modeling of pharmacokinetic data: a simulation study
Authors: Olofsen Erik , Dahan Albert
Published: July 2015

Akaike's information theoretic criterion for model discrimination (AIC) is often stated to "overfit", i.e., it selects models with a higher dimension than the dimension of the model that generated the data. However, with experimental pharmacokinetic data it may not be possible to identify the correct model, because of the complexity of the processes governing drug disposition. Instead of trying to find the correct model, a more useful objective might be to minimize the prediction error of drug concentrations in subjects with unknown disposition characteristics. In that case, the AIC might be the selection criterion of choice.

We performed Monte Carlo simulations using a model of pharmacokinetic data (a power function of time) with the property that fits with common multi-exponential models can never be perfect - thus resembling the situation with real data. Prespecified models were fitted to simulated data sets, and AIC and AICc (the criterion with a correction for small sample sizes) values were calculated and averaged. The average predictive performances of the models, quantified using simulated validation sets, were compared to the means of the AICs. The data for fits and validation consisted of 11 concentration measurements each obtained in 5 individuals, with three degrees of interindividual variability in the pharmacokinetic volume of distribution.

Mean AICc corresponded very well, and better than mean AIC, with mean predictive performance. With increasing interindividual variability, there was a trend towards larger optimal models, but with respect to both lowest AICc and best predictive performance. Furthermore, it was observed that the mean square prediction error itself became less suitable as a validation criterion, and that a predictive performance measure should incorporate interindividual variability.

This simulation study showed that, at least in a relatively simple mixed-effects modelling context with a set of prespecified models, minimal mean AICc corresponded to best predictive performance even in the presence of relatively large interindividual variability.
A case of small-bowel obstruction after insertion of a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tube due to mesenteric penetration
Authors: Roos J
Published: July 2015

A case of small-bowel obstruction after insertion of a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) tube is described. At laparotomy, the PEG tube was found to have penetrated the jejunal mesentery at two points, thereby acting as a focus for a volvulus. Direct injury and obstruction to the small bowel have been described but volvulus due to mesenteric penetration has not.
The pelvic floor practice of colorectal surgeons and recommendations for future services
Authors: Beggs AD , Sultan A , Thakar R , Abulafi AM
Published: July 2015

Pelvic floor disorders such as obstructed defecation and faecal incontinence are common, and frequently underreported in the UK population. Defined as excessive straining, a feeling of blocked evacuation and the need for perineal support or digitation to initiate evacuation, obstructed defecation affects 10–20% of women. 1,2 Obstructed defecation can be associated with a spectrum of clinical findings including rectocoele, enterocoele, intussusception, rectal prolapse 3 and anismus. 4
from Westminster
Authors: Leahy Patrick
Published: July 2015

Tough spending decisions are overdue in the NHS.
The road ahead
Authors: Hawkes Nigel
Published: July 2015

The unexpected Tory-majority win suggests to Nigel Hawkes that the NHS is not quite the emotive electoral bargaining tool Labour led us to believe.
The Negative Effects of Public Benefits on Individual Employment: A Multilevel Analysis of Work Hours
Authors: Nord Derek , Nye-Lengerman Kelly
Published: July 2015

Public benefits are widely used by people with intellectual and development disabilities (IDD) as crucial financial supports. Using Rehabilitation Service Administration 911 and Annual Review Report datasets to account for individual and state vocational rehabilitation (VR) agency variables, a sample of 21,869 people with IDD were analyzed using hierarchical linear modeling to model the effects of public benefits on hours worked per week. Findings point to associations that indicate that public benefits not only limit access to employment participation, they also have a restricting effect on growth of weekly hours that typically come with higher wage positions, compared those that do not access benefits. The article also lays out important implications and recommendations to increase the inclusion of people with IDD in the workplace.
Quantification of some secondary metabolites in selected Cornaceae species / Stanovenie vybraných sekundárnych metabolitov v niektorých druhoch čeľade Cornaceae
Authors: Forman V. , Haladová M. , Grančai D.
Published: July 2015

Leaves of selected species of the Cornaceae family (Swida alba, Swida australis, Swida controversa, Swida coreana, Swida baileyi, Cornus kousa, Cornus mas) were investigated in this study. These shrubs or small trees with hard wood are cultivated in Slovakia (Tesarske Mlyňany Arboretum). Some species (C. mas and C. kousa) have edible fruits. Cornels find broad ethnopharmacological use, for example, in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), where fruits of C. officinalis are used for the treatment of several disorders, such as organ hypersecretion or diabetes. They are also used as tonics and for astringent effects. Leaves and fruits of C. kousa have been reported to possess antioxidative, anti-inflammatory and antidiabetic properties. The aim of our study is to compare the content of selected secondary metabolites groups in the leaves of above-mentioned species. The plant material was collected in the Tesarske Mlyňany Arboretum, Slovakia, in September 2010. Modified spectrophotometric methods of the European Pharmacopoeia, 8th edition (Ph. Eur. 8) were used for all assays. Results show that the total hydroxycinnamic derivatives (THD) content varied from 1.14 (S. alba) to 2.86% (S. coreana) when expressed as rosmarinic acid, and from 1.01 (S. alba) to 2.55% (S. coreana) when expressed as caffeic acid. The flavonoids content ranged from 0.21 (C. mas) to 1.37% (S. coreana), total polyphenols content from 9.6 (C. kousa) to 7.27% (S. coreana), and tannins content from 7.17 (C. kousa) to 4.04% (S. coreana). Leaves of Korean dogwood (S. coreana) were observed to show the highest content of THD expressed as rosmarinic acid (2.86%) and caffeic acid (2.55%), as well as of flavonoids (1.37%). Kousa dogwood (C. kousa) contained the highest amounts of tannins (7.17%) and total polyphenols (9.6%) on the other hand.
Polyphenolic compounds and essential oil analysis of selected species of the genus Thymus / Analýza fenolových zložiek a analýza silice vybraných druhov rodu Thymus
Authors: Kameníková M. , Fialová S. , Ťažký A. , Čičová I.
Published: July 2015

The content of phenolic compounds (total phenolic compounds, tannins, flavonoids and anthocyanidins) of three species of thyme (Thymus pulegioides, Thymus pannonicus, Thymus praecox) of different origin (Bohemian-Moravian highlands, Křivoklat and Považsky Inovec) was determined using spectrophotometric methods of European Pharmacopoeia 8th edition. Furthermore, the determination of the content of essential oil and analysis of its constituents was realised. The amount of total phenolics was determined by a spectrophotometric method using the Folin-Ciocalteu reagent. Their content ranged from 3.87 to 8.86%. The content of tannins was established on a preliminary determination of the total phenolics, followed by adsorption of tannins on hide powder. The amount of tannins in our samples varied from 1.96 to 5.65%. The content of total flavonoids was determined by a spectrophotometric method using aluminium chloride. Quantitative analysis of flavonoids has shown that content in our samples ranged from 0.59 to 1.52% expressed as luteolin-7-O-glucoside (λ = 392 nm) and from 0.41 to 1.12% expressed as rutin (λ = 420 nm). Anthocyanins represent a small amount of total polyphenol content in Thymus species. In our samples, the content of anthocyanins expressed as cyanidin-3-O-glucoside varied from 0.02 to 0.1%. The determination of essential oil was realised by method of European Pharmacopoeia 8th edition. Its contents in our samples ranged from 0.2 to 0.75%. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry was used for essential oil analysis. According to the presence of main monoterpene in Thymus essential oil, we can distinguish three chemotypes: thymol, carvacrol and linalool. Due to variations of chemical constituents of thyme essential oil, it was possible to observe a relationship between occurrence of certain chemotype and origin of sample. Differences in content of flavonoids have not shown a significant relationship to locality of origin.
Phenolic compounds variation in Mentha L. Species in the course of a four-years period / Kolísanie fenolových látok v rôznych druhoch Mentha L. Počas 4 ročného obdobia
Authors: Fialová S. , Tekeľová D. , Rendeková K. , Klinčok J. , Kolárik M. , Kurucová K. , Grančai D.
Published: July 2015

Mints rank among the most important Lamiaceae plants. In addition to essential oil, they contain many valuable phenolic compounds, including flavonoids and phenolic acids that participate in mints’ pharmacological properties. In this work, we examined the contents of phenolic compounds variation in the course of 4 years of vegetation. We compared the contents of total hydroxycinnamic derivatives expressed as rosmarinic acid (λ = 505 nm), total polyphenols and tannins expressed as rosmarinic acid (λ = 760 nm), and flavonoids expressed as luteolin-7-O-glucoside (λ = 392 nm) and quercetin (λ = 420 nm) in 1-, 2-, 3-, and 4-year-old plants’ dry leaves, respectively. Spectrophotometric methods of the European Pharmacopoeia were employed. Our results show high levels of active phenolic compounds, particularly in 3- and 4-year-old plants.
Dependence Of SO2 Of Immissions Measurement Methods For Selected Areas Power Plant Vojany
Authors: Pokrývková Jozefína , Micáková Emília
Published: July 2015

The results of imperfect knowledge of the natural environment’s basic laws show that the negative effects of our actions are manifested in most cases only belatedly, in forms such as: the loss of arable land, the extinction of rare species of plants and animals, the depletion of the ozone layer, the climate change, the deterioration of air quality, the acid rain, the worsening quality of surface and ground water, the surface loss of rainforests and many other negative aspects of our thoughtless actions. For the measurement of sulphur concentration, we chose locality surrounding the power plant Vojany, where we identified two locations for mounting our stands. The first place was the village Tušice, and the second one the area of AMS Leles. This is where we planted in alkaline strips in stands used for this purpose and by the sorption – cumulative method we evaluated concentrations of sulphur amount collected on the strips. In the period 2012–2014, we conducted experiments in regular 30-day intervals; we performed 104 analyses of filter plates using the sorption-cumulative method. The current position of some habitats infestation causes damage to various parts of environment. Therefore, we consider it relevant to continue in monitoring this affliction and quantifying the extent of its negative effects. The proposed procedure with the possibility of a retrospective determination of concentrations of SO2 using mathematical modelling can also be used for the determination of old burdens.
Virulence factors and antimicrobial resistance of
coagulase-negative staphylococci isolated from
drinking water
Authors: Čuvalová Zuzana , Pipová Monika , Kantíková Miriam , Brtková Andrea , Fajber Jozef
Published: July 2015

Little has been published about the occurrence,
speciesidentification, andpathogenicpotentialofcoagulasenegative
staphylococci (CoNS) present in drinking water. In
this study, ten species were identified among 57 isolates
of staphylococci from 756 samples of chlorinated drinking
water taken from public distribution networks in the Slovak
Republic. S. warneri (37%), S. haemolyticus (23%), and S.
saprophyticus ssp. saprophyticus (14%) were identified
most frequently. Isolates did not produce coagulase,
DNase, or hyaluronidase; production of gelatinase and
lecithinase was observed in 28 and 22 isolates, respectively.
Genetically encoded ability for production of enterotoxin
SED was revealed in two isolates. Among ten antibiotics
tested, resistance to ampicillin (66.7%), penicillin (64.9%),
and erythromycin (57.9%) were observed most frequently.
Resistance to gentamicin, vancomycin, or clindamycin was
not confirmed. Production of β-lactamase was observed
in 64.9% of isolates. Fourty-two isolates were resistant to
two or more antibiotics tested, and eight isolates showed
multiresistance. The presence of mecA gene was confirmed
in 8 isolates, while PBP2a was revealed in 7. Two isolates of S.
epidermidis were identified as methicillin-resistant (MRSE).
The results demonstrate that CoNS in chlorinated drinking
water may possess virulence factors and show resistance to
various antibiotics. Therefore, their pathogenic potential
should not be ignored.
A complication after intralesional methylprednisolone acetate application to oral mucosa: A case report
Authors: Oguz Borahan , Fisekcioglu Erdogan , Sinan Alpay
Published: July 2015

Objectives: The purpose of this case report is to evaluate an abscess formation due to intralesional methylprednisolone acetate application to a patient with erosive oral lichen planus. Case Report: A 47years old male patient with a histopathological and clinical diagnosis of erosive oral lichen planus (2x3cm) was treated with intralesional methylprednisolone acetate injection (5 injections of 0.1cc each around the lesion every 15 days). An infection developed after the third application. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed an abscess formation, and the patient was hospitalized for further treatment. Conclusion: Although systemic adverse effects are seldom seen in intralesional steroid application, mucosal atrophy is the main local side effect of this method. In this case, the cause of abscess formation could be an inoculation of the oral flora into submucosal tissues. Therefore, asepsis and oral disinfection are mandatory in intralesional applications.
Dental caries and associated socio-demographic factors in adult people in Bulgaria
Authors: Bonev Boyko , Avramova Nadya , Yaneva Krassimira , Filchev Dimitar
Published: July 2015

Objective: The study aimed to establish the mean DMFT of adults over the age of 20 years in Bulgaria. We also aimed to determine any association between demographic factors, such as age, gender, general health status etc, and dental caries. Material and Methods: The study was conducted from 2006 to 2009. Data was collected from a randomly chosen representative sample of 1741 adults aged over 20 years, from 13 Bulgarian cities and villages. From these 1741 adults, 105 (6.03%) refused to complete the questionnaire. A total of 1636 (93.97%) were included in the survey, of which 766 (47%) lived in villages and small towns and 870 (53%) in the capital city Sofia and other cities. The average age of the sample was 39.6 years. 894 (54.6%) were male and 742 (45.4%) were female. Each participant completed a questionnaire about demographic and socio-demographic status. Afterwards, a clinical examination was carried out. Chi-square and one-way ANOVA were used to test for statistical significance of qualitative variables (p<0.05). Results: For the whole study sample, mean DMFT was 17.8 (SD 7.98). There was a statistically significant association between DMFT and age. Women had higher DMFT values (18.6 ± 7.66)) than men (15.2 ± 7.91). There was a link between DMFT and general health too. People with excellent general health had DMFT 11.5 (SD 6.39), whereas people with bad general health had DMFT 21.4 (SD 8.16). Conclusion: Mean DMFT score of adults in Bulgaria is 17.76 teeth. There is an association between some demographic factors and DMFT. Women, people with bad general health and older people have higher values of DMFT and need more care from dental health services.
The first report on periphytic diatoms on artificial and natural substrate in the karstic spring Bunica, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Authors: Dedić Anita , Plenković-Moraj Anđelka , Borojević Koraljka Kralj , Hafner Dubravka
Published: July 2015

This study presents investigations of the periphytic diatoms on artificial (glass slides) and natural substrates in the karstic, limnocrene spring of Bunica situated in the south of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Investigations were performed in summer 2010. Samples were collected every seven days for eight weeks. Physical and chemical characteristics of water, temperature, oxygen saturation, dissolved oxygen, electric conductivity and nutrients as well as fl ow velocity at sample site, were measured simultaneously with each sampling. Physical and chemical characteristics showed low temperature oscillations, good aeration and oligotrophic conditions. In general, greater diatom diversity was noted on natural substrate. A total of 104 diatom species were found on natural substrate and 82 on glass slides. The best represented genera on both types of substrate were Gomphonema and Navicula (each with eight species), Nitzschia (with six species), and Cocconeis (with five species). Achnanthidium exiguum, Achnanthidium minutissimum, Amphora pediculus, Cymbopleura amphicephala and Surirella minuta were recorded in all samples of natural substrate and Gomphonema minutum in artificial substrate samples.
Voltage Spectral Structure as a Parameter of System Technical Diagnostics of Ship Diesel Engine-Synchronous Generators
Authors: Gasparjans Aleksandrs , Terebkovs Aleksandrs , Zhiravetska Anastasia
Published: July 2015

A method of technical diagnostics of ship diesel engine – generator installation – is proposed. Spectral-power diagnostic parameters of the synchronous generator voltage and currents are used. The electric machine in this case is the multipurpose sensor of diagnostic parameters. A judgment on the quality of the operational processes in diesel engine cylinders and its technical condition is possible on the basis of these parameters. This method is applicable to piston compressor installations with electric drive. On the basis of such parameters as rotating torque, angular speed and angular acceleration it is possible to estimate the quality of the operating process in the cylinders of a diesel engine, the condition of its cylinder-piston group and the crank gear mechanism. The investigation was realized on the basis of a diesel-generator with linear load. The generator operation was considered for the case of constant RL load. Together with the above mentioned, the condition of bearings of synchronous machines, uniformity of the air gap, windings of the electric machine were estimated during the experiments as well. The frequency spectrum of the stator current of the generator was researched and analyzed. In this case the synchronous machine is becoming a rather exact multipurpose diagnostic sensor. The signal of non-uniformity in the operation process of diesel engine cylinders and its technical condition is the increasing of the amplitudes of typical frequencies.
Cryo-injury in algae and the implications this has to the conservation of micro-algae
Authors: Day John G. , Fleck Roland A.
Published: July 2015

As with all products and processes exploiting biological materials algal biotechnology has an absolute requirement for stable, function-fulfilling master stockcultures. Conventionally microalgae and cyanobacteria are maintained by serial transfer with inocula (2.5-25% v/v) being transferred to fresh medium and the culture being held under controlled environmental conditions. This method is satisfactory for many algal taxa, but by its nature cannot provide an absolute guarantee of phenotypic or genotypic stability. Cryopreservation at ultra-low temperatures (> -130oC) is the only methodology that can provide this level of security to master stock-cultures; however, many algae are recalcitrant to cryopreservation with low or no survival. This review explores the reasons of this cryo-recalcitrance on the application of conventional colligative, two-step cryopreservation protocols and points towards the options available to enhance postcryopreservation viability.
Influence Of Used Bacterial Culture On Zinc And Aluminium Bioleaching From Printed Circuit Boards
Authors: Mrazikova Anna , Marcincakova Renata , Kadukova Jana , Velgosova Oksana , Balintova Magdalena
Published: July 2015

Bioleaching processes were used to solubilize metals (Cu, Ni, Zn and Al) from printed circuit boards (PCBs). In this study, a PCBs-adapted pure culture of Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans, pure culture of Acidithiobacillus thiooxidans and PCBs-adapted mixed culture of A. ferrooxidans and A. thiooxidans were used for recovery of the metals. The study showed that the mixed bacterial culture has the greatest potential to dissolve metals. The maximum metal bioleaching efficiencies were found to be 100, 92, 89 and 20% of Cu, Ni, Zn and Al, respectively. The mixed culture revealed higher bacterial stability. The main factor responsible for high metal recovery was the ability of the mixed culture to maintain the low pH during the whole process. The pure culture of A. thiooxidans had no significant effect on metal bioleaching from PCBs.
Hunting efficiency of Red-footed Falcons in different habitats
Authors: Palatitz Péter , Solt Szabolcs , Horváth Éva , Kotymán László
Published: July 2015

We studied hunting success of 13 male Red-footed Falcons by radio-telemetry in the second phase of chick rearing. We coded 484 hunting events, and the success measured in captured prey biomass/minute was exceedingly high in corn fields. This is mainly caused by the fact that the effectiveness of hunting for vertebrate prey was high on the harvested stubble fields. Moreover the observed falcons hunted for insects in these stubble field and alfalfa fields most successfully. In the studied habitat the chick feeding period of Red-footed Falcons coincide with the harvest of cereal fields, and the suddenly created lower vegetation cover increases temporarily the accessibility of prey items.

Till they were available and could be efficiently harvested, the falcons hunted on the fields within a 1 km radius from the nesting colony for the more profitable vertebrate prey. Thereafter they searched for vertebrate prey on the fields located at average 1–2.5 km distance from the colony. In the later zone falcons started to hunt insects, too, but approximately third of the captured insects (36.4%) was consumed immediately and was not delivered to the colony. Conversely larger prey was almost always (98.1%) carried directly to the nest site. Only one part of the Field Voles was observed to be eaten regularly: the brain. Finally later in the breeding season falcons were observed more and more often to hunt in the nearest fields again, this time for insects. Probably due to the depletion of the distant plots, the closer fields with lower investment became a competitive alternative for the birds.

Our results highlight the fact that even for such characteristic short-grass specialist birds as Red-footed Falcons the prey sources offered by arable lands might be temporarily exploited with success. Hence it is very important to integrate the measures offered by agri-environment schemes into the management of this threatened species.
Breeding population trends and pre-migration roost site survey of the Red-footed Falcon in Hungary
Authors: Palatitz Peter , Fehérvári Peter , Solt Szabolcs , Horváth Éva
Published: July 2015

The Red-footed Falcon is a facultatively colonial species that exploits rookeries, artificial nest-box colonies and solitary corvid nests for breeding. Moreover, the remain gregarious in the post breeding period using communal roost sites prior to migration. We developed and implemented a survey protocol to allow to precisely estimate the number of breeding pairs in all three breeding types and to assess large scale spatio-temporal changes in roost site usage. Our results show that the lowest number of breeding pairs (558) was in 2006. However, in 2014 the number of pairs showed a two fold increase, mainly due to a large scale nest-box programme implemented in the past decade. We identified a total of 105 roost sites throughout the country. The number of birds peaked in the second week of September in the past 10 years. We formulate a recommendation to maintain population monitoring efficiency by reducing the frequency of full surveys to 5 years and using designated study areas to control for temporal trends in between.
Thresholds, boundaries, limits: Ideological analysis in the semiotics of Umberto Eco
Authors: Bianchi Cinzia
Published: July 2015

This essay traces the evolution of Umberto Eco’s thinking from a particular point of view, that of his reflections on ideology and ideological discourse. The reason for this choice is that ideology is one of the themes that is associated with the mature phase of Eco’s work, generally regarded as beginning with theTrattato di semiotica generale(1975, A Theory of Semiotics). Moreover, by examining ideology it is possible to piece together a complex path of intellectual reconsiderations and redefinitions involving both the discipline of semiotics and the broader cultural context. To tackle this topic it is in fact necessary to refer both to the general ambit of Eco’s semiotics and the historic and cultural context in which these studies originated.
Intersemiotic translation: Theories, problems, analysis
Authors: Dusi Nicola
Published: July 2015

This paper draws on Jakobson’s tripartite division of the notion of translation, and Eco’s discussion of the terms in his book on translation, Mouse or Rat? Translation as Negotiation (2003b). It focuses specifically on the issue of intersemiotic translation, questioning and showing what it means to “translate” from one “language” to another, such as from the novel to the medium of film, and to what extent the term translation is used metaphorically or whether it is semantically extended to include a broader notion of translation than that between natural languages.
Umberto Eco and the problem of iconism
Authors: Polidoro Piero
Published: July 2015

This paper focuses on the main features and evolution of the so-called “debate on iconism,” in which Eco was deeply involved. This discussion (one of the most important in general and visual semiotics) began at the end of the 1960s and dealt with the problem of reality and image perception. It was characterized by the contrast between the supporters of visual language “naturality” and those of its “conventionality.” In La Struttura assente (1968) and Trattato di semiotica generale (1975, A Theory of Semiotics), Eco elaborated a moderate conventionalist theory. More than 20 years later, in Kant e l’ornitorinco (1997, Kant and the Platypus), he focused his attention on the link between reality and visual language. The article aims to understand what has really changed in Eco’s theory and how far the reflections in Kant e l’ornitorinco were already implied in his first ideas. Besides, the article underlines the importance of perceptive modalities theory, Eco’s most recent contribution to visual semiotics.
Global and local: Encyclopedic meaning revisited
Authors: Violi Patrizia
Published: July 2015

This essay deals directly with the issues of meaning, language use, and communication as they connect with the concept of Encyclopedia. It provides an in-depth investigation into linguistic understanding as an interpretative process and not as a simple passage of information. This reading coincides with various studies in pragmatics, as well as with recent research in more narrowly linguistic fields.
Two Types of Visual Objects
Authors: Skrzypulec Błażej
Published: July 2015

While it is widely accepted that human vision represents objects, it is less clear which of the various philosophical notions of ‘object’ adequately characterizes visual objects. In this paper, I show that within contemporary cognitive psychology visual objects are characterized in two distinct, incompatible ways. On the one hand, models of visual organization describe visual objects in terms of combinations of features, in accordance with the philosophical bundle theories of objects. However, models of visual persistence apply a notion of visual objects that is more similar to that endorsed in philosophical substratum theories. Here I discuss arguments that might show either that only one of the above notions of visual objects is adequate in the context of human vision, or that the category of visual objects is not uniform and contains entities properly characterized by different philosophical conceptions.
The Scope of Legal Psychiatry
Authors: Suarez JM , Hunt J
Published: July 2015

Law and psychiatry as distinct disciplines overlap inevitably in many ways. There are many areas in which the two potentially or actually have concerns in common, and these seem to be expanding all the time. These areas are rather heterogeneous, and range from the understanding and treatment of the criminal offender to social issues such as abortion or gun control, and all the way to highly philosophical problems such as confidentiality or the involuntary detention of the dangerous. In actuality, however, the degree and type of interaction between the two disciplines has been remarkably narrow and constricted as this article will demonstrate in depth.
Studies of the Trace Element Content of Bullet Lead and Jacket Material
Authors: Guy RD , Pate BD
Published: July 2015

This note concerns the characterization of bullets and bullet jacket material through their trace element content, a technique of potential utility when a bullet or bullet fragment is deformed so that the more conventional techniques are inapplicable. Among the trace element analysis techniques which have been already applied to this problem are atomic absorption spectrometry [1] and neutron activation analysis [2]—the latter technique being that employed in the present study. Results from these studies (for rather few trace elements) suggest that bullet lead compositions may be sufficiently constant for a given manufacturer and calibre for characterization to be possible. This is feasible despite the possibility that manufacturers supply lead to each other and the batch nature of the manufacturing process. In the recent work of Lukens et al [2], the elements Sb, Cu, and As were determined, but the measurement of other trace elements was impeded by the intense antimony radioactivity present in the irradiated specimens, resulting from activation of the substantial Sb content of bullet lead.
Fatal Methadone Poisoning in Children: Report of Four Cases
Authors: DiMaio DJ , DiMaio T
Published: July 2015

During the past two years, the Brooklyn office of the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner of New York City has encountered four deaths in children due to methadone poisoning. In all cases, prepared methadone drinks or methadone hydrochloride tablets were carelessly left around the house within the reach of children by either parents or friends of the family who were on a methadone maintenance program. The increasing use of this oral methadone maintenance technique in the management of heroin addicts has made this drug more accessible, thereby increasing the danger of accidental ingestion by children. It is to be expected that with even wider adoption of this program, that accidental methadone poisoning in children will become more common. Four deaths in children due to methadone poisoning are presented in this communication.
Blood Grouping Tests for Non-Paternity
Authors: Sussman LN
Published: July 2015

The use of blood grouping tests in disputed paternity, filial relationship, personal identification, forensic medicine, and other medicolegal problems has become increasingly frequent in the past twenty years [1–7]. Several recent articles concerned with pitfalls and exceptions in the interpretation of the laws pertaining to this highly accurate science have appeared [8–10]. Since the major medicolegal impact is in relation to disputed paternity, this report presents a study of an additional 1000 cases in this area. The previous report in 1963 [11] emphasized the fact that only 10 percent of defendants in paternity proceedings requested blood grouping tests to substantiate their denial, whereas a statistical study indicated that approximately 40 percent of men were in fact not the fathers in the actions brought before the courts. To fail to demand a blood grouping test is indeed to disregard a most important defense, and thus fail to provide the most substantial evidence of nonpaternity.
Application of Gm Typing in Cases of Disputed Paternity
Authors: Ellis FR , Camp FR , Litwin SD
Published: July 2015

What is the current status of employing human blood groups to exclude paternity? Dr. A. S. Wiener [1] believes that the problem of qualification of experts is still the main factor for forensic immunogenetics. In discussing exceptions to blood group inheritance and mutations, Dr. Wiener wrote that the problem of Bombay bloods, Rh null, Mg, etc. has had little effect—since the frequency is of the same order of magnitude as mutation which has always been with us.
The Medico-Legal Aspects of Drug Interactions
Authors: Goldstein EM
Published: July 2015

There will always be error produced by failure of human perception. And, undeniably, there will always be occasions on which a drug may be mislabeled, an improper dose administered, or the wrong drug given to a patient. Injury from such situations generally constitutes negligence as a matter of law.
Colorimetric Determination of 3,4-Methylenedioxyamphetamine (MDA)
Authors: DeMayo MM , Briglia EJ , Dal Cortivo LA
Published: July 2015

MDA (α,-methyl-3,4-methylenedioxyphenethylamine) is one of several arylalkylamine hallucinogens appearing in the illicit drug market. A simple, sensitive method for detecting and estimating the compound is thus desirable.
Suicidal Insulin Poisoning with Nine Day Survival: Recovery in Bile at Autopsy by Radioimmunoassay
Authors: Sturner WQ , Putnam RS
Published: July 2015

The discovery of insulin fifty years ago enabled doctors to successfully treat an eleven year old boy dying from diabetes mellitus and thereby ushered in a new medical era. While millions of subsequent patients were thus able to lead productive lives, others tunred this miraculous substance into self-destructive purposes, while a few attempted (and possibly succeeded in) carefully concealed homicidal undertakings. The first “murder by insulin” case, prosecuted with a conviction in Great Britain fifteen years ago, employed a laborious bioassay method to demonstrate the hormone at the site of injection [1]. A recent series of insulin poisonings in California was dependent on pathologi changes in the brain from anoxia (hypoglycemia) coupled with history and investigation rather than chemical measurements, although an immunoassay method was used for confirmation in the final case [2]. Instances of suicidal attempts by self-administered insulin have been reported with analyses performed by radioimmunoassay, now employed in clinical laboratories to measure many hormonal and therapeutic substances [3]. We have applied this principle from pathologic and toxicologic aspects in an effort to enhance the diagnostic capability of the forensic pathologist, who must examine and properly certify such deaths.
The Phenomenon of Adolescent Addiction
Authors: Rohrs CC , Murphy JP , Goldsmith B , Densen-Gerber J
Published: July 2015

In 1969 the office of the Chief Medical Examiner of New York City released statistics which provided blunt quantitative confirmation to a matter of growing concern to both the lay and professional communities. Two hundred twenty-four deaths from heroin were attributed to persons between the ages of 12 and 18, representing 25 percent of the total number of deaths in that city due to heroin. This startling statistic represented a fantastic increase from the preceding year and was greater than 5 percent for the first time in the fifty-year period that this information was compiled.
Phenothiazines: Metabolism and Analytical Detection
Authors: Forrest IS , Green DE
Published: July 2015

In the early 1950's chlorpromazine (Thorazine), the first phenothiazine drug for clinical use in man, was synthesized in France, was introduced in Europe and Canada without delay, and has been used on a large scale in this country since 1954. Since its introduction chlorpromazine (CP) has been administered to about 100 million people all over the world, and, therefore, metabolic and toxicologic studies have been conducted in many laboratories. There are more than 10,000 papers on record dealing with clinical, pharmacological and biochemical aspects of its use.