bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
2,8-dihydroxyadenine uroliths in a dog
Authors: Houston Doreen M. , Moore Andrew E. , Mendonca Sonia Z. , Taylor Judith A.
Published: October 2012

Case Description—A 43-kg (95-lb) 4-year-old neutered male mixed-breed dog was evaluated because of a 2-day history of dysuria.

Clinical Findings—Radiography and ultrasonography revealed hydronephrosis, hydroureter, and radiolucent, hyperechoic uroliths in the right kidney and ureter and the urinary bladder. Serum bile acids concentration was within the reference interval.

Treatment and Outcome—The uroliths in the bladder and right ureter were surgically removed and submitted for analysis. They were initially identified as urate uroliths; however, results of further analysis indicated uroliths were composed of 2,8-dihydroxyadenine (2,8-DHA), and 2,8-DHA was identified in a urine sample of the dog. Allopurinol was prescribed for the dog, and a purine-restricted diet was recommended.

Clinical Relevance—2,8-DHA uroliths are extremely rare in humans and dogs. Such uroliths may be underdiagnosed in humans because of variability of clinical signs and difficulty in differentiating 2,8-DHA and urate uroliths and crystalluria. Uroliths composed of 2,8-DHA may be misdiagnosed as urate uroliths in dogs.
Applicability of Gd-doped BaZrO3, SrZrO3, BaCeO3 and SrCeO3 proton conducting perovskites as electrolytes for solid oxide fuel cells
Authors: Zając Wojciech , Rusinek Dariusz , Zheng Kun , Molenda Janina
Published: October 2012

Four proton conducting oxides of perovskite structure: BaZrO3, SrZrO3, BaCeO3 and SrCeO3 doped with 5 mol.% of gadolinium are compared in terms of crystal structure, microstructure, sinterability, water sorption ability, ionic transference number, electrical conductivity and stability towards CO2. Relations between proton conductivity, structural and chemical parameters: pseudo-cubic unit cell volume, lattice free volume, tolerance factor, crystal symmetry and electronegativity are discussed. The grain boundary resistance is shown to be the limiting factor of total proton-conductivity for the materials examined. The highest proton conductivity was observed for BaCeO3, however, it turned out to be prone to degradation in CO2-containing atmosphere and reduction at high temperatures. On the other hand, Ba and Sr zirconates are found to be more chemically stable, but exhibit low electrical conductivity. Electrical conductivity relaxation upon hydration is used to calculate proton diffusion coefficient. Selected materials were tested as electrolytes in solid oxide fuel cells.
Application of chemometrics to identifying solid fuels and their origin
Authors: Sajdak Marcin
Published: October 2012

The aim of this work was to implement a chemometric analysis to detect the relationships between the analysed variables in samples of solid fuels. Efforts are being made to apply chemometrics methods in environmental issues by developing methods for the rapid assessment of solid fuels and their compliance with the required emission characteristics regulations. In the present investigation, two clustering techniques—hierarchical clustering analysis (HCA) and principal components analysis (PCA)—are used to obtain the linkage between solid fuel properties and the type of sample. These analyses allowed us to detect the relationships between the studied parameters of the investigated solid fuels. Furthermore, the usefulness of chemometrics methods for identification of the origin of biofuels is shown. These methods will enable control of the degree of contamination.
C&RT model application in classification of biomass for energy production and environmental protection
Authors: Sajdak Marcin , Piotrowski Olaf
Published: October 2012

Biomass is most often used to produce energy via its combustion and co-combustion along with conventional energy carriers. The prevalence of this method results from the lack of sufficient facilities that can provide a quick and simple chemical classification method, which would show a broader range of possible applications of biofuel in the energy industry. The aim of this study was the development of novel method of classification allowing for quick determine of the direction of the biomass usage by applying classification and regression models of trees (C&RTs). The proper functioning of a C&RT model is based on a very large database of results collected by the Institute for Chemical Processing of Coal during years of work in this field. The created model may be used as decision tool for grouping various biomass sources with respect to their further application in energy generation.
Phenylmethoxybis(tetrazolium) ion-association complexes with an anionic indium(III) — 4-(2-pyridylazo)resorcinol chelate
Authors: Stefanova Teodora , Gavazov Kiril
Published: October 2012

Complex formation and liquid-liquid extraction were studied in systems containing indium(III), 4-(2-pyridylazo)resorcinol (PAR), phenylmethoxybis(tetrazolium) salt (MBT), water and chloroform. The following MBTs, which differ only by the number of -NO2 groups in their cationic parts, were used: 3,3′-(3,3′-dimetoxy-4,4′-biphenylene)bis(2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium chloride) (Blue Tetrazolium chloride, BT), 3,3′-(3,3′-dimetoxy-4,4′-biphenylene)bis[2-(4-nitrophenyl)-5-phenyl-2H-tetrazolium chloride] (Nitro Blue Tetrazolium chloride, NBT) and 3,3′-(3,3′-dimetoxy-4,4′-biphenylene)bis[2,5-di(4-nitrophenyl)-2H-tetrazolium chloride] (Tetranitro Blue Tetrazolium chloride, TNBT). The composition of the formed ternary complexes was determined, In:PAR:MBT=1:2:2, and the optimum conditions for their extraction found: pH, shaking time, concentration of the reagents and the sequence of their addition. Some key constants were estimated: constants of extraction (Kex), constants of association (β) and constants of distribution (KD). BT appears to be the best MBT for extraction of the In(III)-PAR species, [In3+(OH)3(PAR)2]4−, (Log Kex=10.9, Log β=9.8, Log KD=1.12, R%=92.7%). Several additional characteristics concerning its application as extraction-spectrophotometric reagent were calculated: limit of detection (LOD = 0.12 µg cm−3), limit of quantification (LOD = 0.40 µg cm−3) and Sandell’s sensitivity (SS =1.58 ng cm−2); Beer’s law is obeyed for In(III) concentrations up to 3.2 µg mL−1 with a molar absorptivity coefficient of 7.3×104 L mol−1 cm−1 at λmax=515 nm.
Cardiac sarcoidosis: A review on the work-up and management
Authors: Solun Boris , Marcoviciu Dana , Belnik Yulia , Azran Tamar , Dicker Dror , Perek Yosef , Goitein Orly
Published: October 2012

Sarcoidosis is a multisystem granulomatous disease of unknown etiology and with variable presentation. Skin, lymph nodes, lungs, eyes and the central nervous system are mostly involved. Cardiac sarcoidosis (CS) is a rare condition with clinical manifestations in about 5% of patients. Since it increases the risk of acute cardiac failure, ventricular arrhythmia, conduction disturbances and even sudden death, it aggravates markedly the prognosis. The early diagnosis of CS is difficult, requiring the use of diagnostic tools such as electrocardiographic monitoring, two-dimensional echocardiography, radionuclide scan, cardiac magnetic resonance imaging, positron emission tomography and endomyocardial biopsy. Once the diagnosis of CS is established, there is a need for early corticosteroids treatment, with or without immunosuppressive therapy, to prevent deterioration of cardiac function. In patients with refractory ventricular tachyarrhythmia, markedly reduced left ventricular ejection fraction and high risk of sudden death, prophylactic insertion of a pacemaker or implantable defibrillator is recommended. We had the opportunity to treat a patient with CS and to review the currently accepted diagnostic and treatment approach.
Urban transport safety assessment in akure based on corresponding performance indicators
Authors: Oye Adedamola , Aderinlewo Olufikayo , Croope Silvana
Published: October 2012

The level of safety of the transportation system in Akure, Nigeria was assessed by identifying the associated road safety problems and developing the corresponding safety performance indicators. These indicators were analysed with respect to accidents that occurred within the city from the year 2005 to 2009 based on the corresponding attributable risk measures. The results of the analysis showed the state of existing safety programs in Akure town. Six safety performance indicators were identified namely alcohol and drug use, excessive speeds, protection system (use of seat belts and helmets), use of day time running lights, state of vehicles (passive safety) and road condition. These indicators were used to determine the percentage of injury accidents as follows: 83.33% and 86.36% for years 2005 and 2006 respectively, 81.46% for year 2007 while years 2008 and 2009 had 82.86% and 78.12% injury accidents respectively.
Physical Rehabilitation of Patients in the Intensive Care Unit Requiring Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation: A Small Case Series
Authors: Rahimi Rod A. , Skrzat Julie , Reddy Dereddi Raja S. , Zanni Jennifer M. , Fan Eddy , Stephens R. Scott , Needham Dale M.
Published: October 2012

Background and Purpose

Neuromuscular weakness and impaired physical function are common and long-lasting complications experienced by intensive care unit (ICU) survivors. There is growing evidence that implementing rehabilitation therapy shortly after ICU admission improves physical function and reduces health care utilization. Recently, there is increasing interest and utilization of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) to support patients with severe respiratory failure. Patients receiving ECMO are at great risk for significant physical impairments and pose unique challenges for delivering rehabilitation therapy. Consequently, there is a need for innovative examples of safely and feasibly delivering active rehabilitation to these patients.

Case Description

This case report describes 3 patients with respiratory failure requiring ECMO who received physical rehabilitation to illustrate and discuss relevant feasibility and safety issues.

Outcomes

In case 1, sedation and femoral cannulation limited rehabilitation therapy while on ECMO. In the 2 subsequent cases, minimizing sedation and utilizing a single bicaval dual lumen ECMO cannula placed in the internal jugular vein allowed patients to be alert and participate in active physical therapy while on ECMO, illustrating feasible rehabilitation techniques for these patients.

Discussion

Although greater experience is needed to more fully evaluate the safety of rehabilitation on ECMO, these initial cases are encouraging. We recommend systematically and prospectively tracking safety events and patient outcomes during rehabilitation on ECMO to provide greater evidence in this area.
Closed-Course Evaluation of Stop Paddles with Embedded Lights
Authors: Finley Melisa D. , Park Eun Sug , Huff William
Published: October 2012

The safety of crossing guards is important because it is their responsibility to make sure that schoolchildren cross the street safely and efficiently. Through discussions, it was found that crossing guards were very interested in using stop paddles with embedded lights to improve the conspicuity of the paddles. There was a concern, however, that some of the embedded light configurations might negatively affect a motorist's ability to recognize the three critical characteristics that define a stop sign: red background color, octagon shape, and white stop legend. A closed-course human factors study was conducted to assess the effectiveness of five stop paddles with embedded lights as compared with that of a standard, unlit stop paddle. On the basis of the findings from this study, the use of three stop paddle configurations is recommended to improve the conspicuity of crossing guards without negatively affecting a motorist's ability to recognize the three critical characteristics of a stop sign. These configurations are (a) a stop paddle containing flashing red lights arranged in an octagonal pattern at the eight corners of the paddle, (b) a stop paddle containing a series of steady-burn red lights around the border arranged such that the lights clearly convey the octagonal shape of the paddle, and (c) a stop paddle containing a series of flashing red lights around the border arranged such that the lights clearly convey the octagonal shape of the paddle. Because the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices does not currently address the issue of steady-burn lights, agencies should contact FHWA before they use a stop paddle with a steady-burn light configuration.
Evaluation of Two Treatments for Reducing Crashes Related to Traffic Signal Change Intervals
Authors: Persaud Bhagwant , Gross Frank , Srinivasan Raghavan
Published: October 2012

Two related evaluation studies that were conducted under NCHRP Project 17–35 are presented. The research objective was to use the most appropriate analytical methods and the best available data to build on previous research in developing crash modification factors (CMFs) for two treatments for reducing crashes related to traffic signal change intervals: modifying the change interval and installing dynamic signal warning flashers. Three evaluation methods were used as appropriate—the empirical Bayes before–after method, the comparison group before–after method, and cross-sectional multiple regression models. A secondary objective of using cross-sectional models for some evaluations was to examine the comparability of before–after and cross-sectional studies, a subject of topical interest in CMF development. There was a general safety benefit to installing dynamic signal warning flashers, with indications that crash reductions could be obtained overall and for several crash types, including injury, angle, and heavy-vehicle crashes. For the change-interval modification, the before–after study results showed significant reductions (at the 5% level) in total, injury, and rear-end crashes under various scenarios. For both treatments, the results from the cross-sectional analysis were relatively consistent with those from the before–after analysis.
Evaluation of Comprehension and Legibility of International and Domestic Nonstandard Symbol Signs
Authors: Katz Bryan J. , Dagnall Erin E. , O'Donnell Cara C.
Published: October 2012

This paper documents a research project that evaluated proposed new traffic signs to ensure that the signs were effective when human factors requirements were taken into consideration. The following sign messages were selected for symbol development and evaluation: combination horizontal alignment–advisory speed, congestion ahead, cross-street preferential lane warning, do not enter, do not pass, electric-vehicle charging station, fallen rocks, flagger ahead, low-shoulder warning, maximum width, no left turn ahead, railroad crossing on leg of roundabout, road narrows, survey crew, trolley crossing, uneven lanes, and winery. The team conducted 96 surveys to determine driver comprehension and legibility for each alternative sign design. The surveys were administered to the general driving public at the Turner–Fairbank Highway Research Center in McLean, Virginia. On the basis of driver input and the results of the comprehension and legibility testing, the research team provided recommendations on symbols that should be included in the next edition of the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices.
Effect of Train Arrival Time on Crash Frequency at Highway–Railroad Grade Crossings
Authors: Hu Shou-Ren , Lin Jhy-Pyng
Published: October 2012

With the use of a general classification regression model, this study investigated the causal relationship between time to train arrival (TTA) and crash frequency at highway–railroad grade crossings. In particular, a stratified structure in the explanatory variables was used to avoid the collinearity problem generally confronted in linear regression models. TTA is a good estimate of rail sight distance and time to collision, and it could be used to predict crash frequency at a grade crossing. A 14-year crash data set accompanied by crossing inventory data including TTAs was collected for the empirical study. Study results indicated that a negative relationship between TTAs and crash frequencies was generally found for all types of trains. Similar causal relationships were also found in various combinations of both crossing attributes and crash characteristics. Sensitivity analysis on the variable combinations was also conducted to investigate the key risk factors that might result in traffic collisions at grade crossings. Policy implications based on the empirical study are discussed, and future research directions are recommended.
Late-Holocene changes in character and behaviour of land-terminating glaciers on James Ross Island, Antarctica
Authors: Carrivick Jonathan L. , Davies Bethan J. , Glasser Neil F. , Nývlt Daniel , Hambrey Michael J.
Published: October 2012

Virtually no information is available on the response of land-terminating Antarctic Peninsula glaciers to climate change on a centennial timescale. This paper analyses the topography, geomorphology and sedimentology of prominent moraines on James Ross Island, Antarctica, to determine geometric changes and to interpret glacier behaviour. The moraines are very likely due to a late-Holocene phase of advance and featured (1) shearing and thrusting within the snout, (2) shearing and deformation of basal sediment, (3) more supraglacial debris than at present and (4) short distances of sediment transport. Retreat of ~100 m and thinning of 15–20 m has produced a loss of 0.1 km3 of ice. The pattern of surface lowering is asymmetric. These geometrical changes are suggested most simply to be due to a net negative mass balance caused by a drier climate. Comparisons of the moraines with the current glaciological surface structure of the glaciers permits speculation of a transition from a polythermal to a cold-based thermal regime. Small land-terminating glaciers in the northern Antarctic Peninsula region could be cooling despite a warming climate.
Ice-core net snow accumulation and seasonal snow chemistry at a temperate-glacier site: Mount Waddington, southwest British Columbia, Canada
Authors: Neff Peter D. , Steig Eric J. , Clark Douglas H. , McConnell Joseph R. , Pettit Erin C. , Menounos Brian
Published: October 2012

A 141m ice core was recovered from Combatant Col (51.385° N, 125.258° W; 3000ma.s.l.), Mount Waddington, Coast Mountains, British Columbia, Canada. Records of black carbon, dust, lead and water stable isotopes demonstrate that unambiguous seasonality is preserved throughout the core, despite summer surface snowmelt and temperate ice. High accumulation rates at the site (>4 m ice eq. a-1) limit modification of annual stratigraphy by percolation of surface meltwater. The ice-core record spans the period 1973–2010. An annually averaged time series of lead concentrations from the core correlates well with historical records of lead emission from North America, and with ice-core records of lead from the Greenland ice sheet. The depth-age scale for the ice core provides sufficient constraint on the vertical strain to allow estimation of the age of the ice at bedrock. Total ice thickness at Combatant Col is ~250 m; an ice core to bedrock would likely contain ice in excess of 200 years in age. Accumulation at Combatant Col is significantly correlated with both regional precipitation and large-scale geopotential height anomalies.
Thought and Repetition in Bergson and Deleuze
Authors: Sholl Jonathan
Published: October 2012

This essay explores the relation between repetition and thought in Bergson and Deleuze. In Bergson, this relation is seen in the method of intuition by which thought is made to think in time and in the ‘rhythms’ at work in how intuition is a contact with time or life, urging conceptual precision. This framework is used to clarify Deleuze's thought without image as that contingent encounter with the persistent forces of life that demand the perseverance of thought. Far from stressing difference alone, both link the repetition in life to the unsettling persistence required to develop a truly new thought.
Creative Involution: Bergson, Beckett, Deleuze
Authors: Gontarski S. E.
Published: October 2012

‘Creative Involution’ posits something of a philosophical genealogy, a line of flight that has neither need for nor interest in the periodisation of Modernism, a line of which Beckett (even reluctantly) is part. Murphy, among others, is deterritorialised as much as Beckett's landscapes are, and so he/they become a ‘complexification’ of being that manifests itself in Beckett not as represented, representative or a representation, since so much of Beckett deals with that which cannot be uttered, known or represented, but whose image the works (and its figures) have become, a thinking through of negativity, becoming, and multiplicity through non-Newtonian motion, of being as becoming, where every movement brings something new into the world, but in something of a reverse Darwinism that moves from complex to simple organism, from Murphy to Worm, or Watt to Pim, or among the nameless figures in the short prose, a ‘becoming-animal’, in something not so much of a creative devolution but rather a ‘neoevolution’, or to adopt another term from Deleuze and Guattari, an ‘involution’, which ‘is in no way confused with regression’ (1987: 238), becomings creating nothing less than new worlds. Writing casually to his post-war confidant Georges Duthuit on 26 July 1951, Beckett noted in the midst of gardening chores, ‘Never seen so many butterflies in such worm-state, this little central cylinder, the only flesh, is the worm’ (2011: 271). The observation comes after the writing but before the premiere performance of Waiting for Godot in which Gogo tells Didi, ‘You and your landscapes! Tell me about the worms!’ (1954: 67). Such ‘becoming-animal always involves a pack, a band, a population, a peopling, in short a multiplicity’ (1987: 239), Deleuze and Guattari tell us. For Beckett it defines creativity as well, only possible through such un-tethered selves or beings, amid the generation of varieties and differences, accessible through moments of deterritorialisation, characterised by, ‘A fearsome involution calling us toward unheard-of becomings’ (240).
Potentiality as a Life: Deleuze, Agamben, Beckett
Authors: Žukauskaitė Audronė
Published: October 2012

In Essays Critical and Clinical, Deleuze argues that Beckettian characters usually strive towards becoming imperceptible. This statement immediately poses another question: what is becoming imperceptible and where does it lead? How can we rid ourselves of ourselves? Paradoxically enough, Deleuze states that becoming imperceptible is life. The literal and self-evident meaning of life seems somehow incompatible with the image of dissolving and decaying characters in Beckett's works. Contrary to this self-evidence, the notion of life in Deleuze and Beckett should be interpreted as pure potentiality which opens both the potential to be (or do) and the potential not to be (or do). Beckettian characters together with other figures, such as Bartleby, let us think of a life in its potential not to be. The life of the individual gives way to impersonal and singular life: a life of pure immanence. Such a life can be immanent to a man who no longer has a name, though he can be mistaken for no other: the Beckettian Unnamable.
New Curious Bilateral q-Series Identities
Authors: Jouhet Frédéric , Schlosser Michael J.
Published: October 2012

By applying a classical method, already employed by Cauchy, to a terminating curious summation by one of the authors, a new curious bilateral q-series identity is derived. We also apply the same method to a quadratic summation by Gessel and Stanton, and to a cubic summation by Gasper, respectively, to derive a bilateral quadratic and a bilateral cubic summation formula.
Cocaine-Induced Reinstatement of a Conditioned Place Preference in Developing Rats: Involvement of the D2 Receptor
Authors: Badanich Kimberly , Kirstein Cheryl
Published: October 2012

Reinstatement of conditioned place preferences have been used to investigate physiological mechanisms mediating drug-seeking behavior in adolescent and adult rodents; however, it is still unclear how psychostimulant exposure during adolescence affects neuron communication and whether these changes would elicit enhanced drug-seeking behavior later in adulthood. The present study determined whether the effects of intra-ventral tegmental area (VTA) or intra-nucleus accumbens septi (NAcc) dopamine (DA) D2 receptor antagonist infusions would block (or potentiate) cocaine-induced reinstatement of conditioned place preferences. Adolescent rats (postnatal day (PND 28–39)) were trained to express a cocaine place preference. The involvement of D2 receptors on cocaine-induced reinstatement was determined by intra-VTA or intra-NAcc infusion of the DA D2 receptor antagonist sulpiride (100 μM) during a cocaine-primed reinstatement test (10 mg/kg cocaine, i.p.). Infusion of sulpiride into the VTA but not the NAcc blocked reinstatement of conditioned place preference. These data suggest intrinsic compensatory mechanisms in the mesolimbic DA pathway mediate responsivity to cocaine-induced reinstatement of a conditioned place preference during development.
A Free Energy Principle for Biological Systems
Authors: Karl Friston
Published: October 2012

This paper describes a free energy principle that tries to explain the ability of biological systems to resist a natural tendency to disorder. It appeals to circular causality of the sort found in synergetic formulations of self-organization (e.g., the slaving principle) and models of coupled dynamical systems, using nonlinear Fokker Planck equations. Here, circular causality is induced by separating the states of a random dynamical system into external and internal states, where external states are subject to random fluctuations and internal states are not. This reduces the problem to finding some (deterministic) dynamics of the internal states that ensure the system visits a limited number of external states; in other words, the measure of its (random) attracting set, or the Shannon entropy of the external states is small. We motivate a solution using a principle of least action based on variational free energy (from statistical physics) and establish the conditions under which it is formally equivalent to the information bottleneck method. This approach has proved useful in understanding the functional architecture of the brain. The generality of variational free energy minimisation and corresponding information theoretic formulations may speak to interesting applications beyond the neurosciences; e.g., in molecular or evolutionary biology.
Callose Deposition Is Required for Somatic Embryogenesis in Plasmolyzed Eleutherococcus senticosus Zygotic Embryos
Authors: Tao Lei , Yang Yang , Wang Qiuyu , You Xiangling
Published: October 2012

Dynamic changes in callose content, which is deposited as a plant defense response to physiological changes, were analyzed during somatic embryogenesis in Eleutherococcus senticosus zygotic embryos plasmolyzed in 1.0 M mannitol. During plasmolysis, callose deposition was clearly observed inside the plasma membrane of zygotic embryo epidermal cells using confocal laser scanning microscopy. The callose content of zygotic embryos gradually increased between 0 and 12 h plasmolysis and remained stable after 24 h plasmolysis. During eight weeks induction of somatic embryogenesis, the callose content of explants plasmolyzed for 12 h was slightly higher than explants plasmolyzed for 6 or 24 h, with the largest differences observed after 6 weeks culture, which coincided with the maximum callose content and highest number of globular somatic embryos. The highest frequency of somatic embryo formation was observed in explants plasmolyzed for 12 h. The somatic embryo induction rate and number of somatic embryos per explant were markedly different in zygotic embryos pretreated with plasmolysis alone (78.0%, 43 embryos per explant) and those pretreated with plasmolysis and the callose synthase inhibitor 2-deoxy-d-glucose (11.5%, 8 embryos per explant). This study indicates that callose production is required for somatic embryogenesis in plasmolyzed explants.
Validated and Predictive Processing of Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry Based Metabolomics Data for Large Scale Screening Studies, Diagnostics and Metabolite Pattern Verification
Authors: Thysell Elin , Chorell Elin , Svensson Michael , Jonsson Pär , Antti Henrik
Published: October 2012

The suggested approach makes it feasible to screen large metabolomics data, sample sets with retained data quality or to retrieve significant metabolic information from small sample sets that can be verified over multiple studies. Hierarchical multivariate curve resolution (H-MCR), followed by orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) was used for processing and classification of gas chromatography/time of flight mass spectrometry (GC/TOFMS) data characterizing human serum samples collected in a study of strenuous physical exercise. The efficiency of predictive H-MCR processing of representative sample subsets, selected by chemometric approaches, for generating high quality data was proven. Extensive model validation by means of cross-validation and external predictions verified the robustness of the extracted metabolite patterns in the data. Comparisons of extracted metabolite patterns between models emphasized the reliability of the methodology in a biological information context. Furthermore, the high predictive power in longitudinal data provided proof for the potential use in clinical diagnosis. Finally, the predictive metabolite pattern was interpreted physiologically, highlighting the biological relevance of the diagnostic pattern.
Geology and Age Constraints on the Origin of the Intrusion-Related, Sheeted Vein-Type Åkerberg Gold Deposit, Skellefte District, Sweden
Authors: Billström Kjell , Mattson Benny , Söderlund Ulf , Årebäck Hans , Broman Curt
Published: October 2012

The Early Proterozoic (~1.9 Ga) Skellefte mining district in northern Sweden hosts abundant base metal deposits, but there are also gold-only deposits. The Åkerberg gold ore is unusual given the noted lack of alteration, a scarcity of sulfides and gold associated with thin (mm-cm wide) parallel quartz veins hosted in a gabbro. The gold content is positively correlated with the density of quartz veins, but gold often occurs between veins and also in parts of the gabbro where there is no veining. The gabbro is intruded by a granodiorite and associated pegmatite bodies, and U-Pb dating of zircon and baddeleyite suggest that these lithologies developed close in time at around 1.88 Ga ago. There are no primary inclusions in quartz veins, but different types of secondary aqueous inclusions occur. The Åkerberg ore is interpreted as a sheeted vein complex, with veins constrained to tensional cracks induced when a granodioritic magma intruded the competent, sheet-like gabbro intrusion. It is suggested that unmixing of the felsic magma also produced pegmatite bodies and a gel-like melt which invaded fractures in the gabbro and deposited silica. In a comparison, the Åkerberg ore shares many characteristics with the intrusion-related style of gold mineralizations.
Formation and Inhibition of Nε-(Carboxymethyl)lysine in Saccharide-Lysine Model Systems during Microwave Heating
Authors: Li Lin , Han Lipeng , Fu Quanyi , Li Yuting , Liang Zhili , Su Jianyu , Li Bing
Published: October 2012

Nε-(carboxymethyl) lysine (CML) is the most abundant advanced glycation end product (AGE), and frequently selected as an AGEs marker in laboratory studies. In this paper, the formation and inhibition of Nε-(carboxymethyl)lysine in saccharide-lysine model systems during microwave heating have been studied. The microwave heating treatment significantly promoted the formation of CML during Maillard reactions, which was related to the reaction temperature, time and type of saccharide. The order of CML formation for different saccharides was lactose > glucose > sucrose. Then, the inhibition effect on CML by five inhibitors was further examined. According to the results, ascorbic acid and tocopherol did not affect inhibition of CML, in contrast, thiamin, rutin and quercetin inhibited CML formation, and the inhibitory effects were concentration dependent.
Bis-sulfonic Acid Ionic Liquids for the Conversion of Fructose to 5-Hydroxymethyl-2-furfural
Authors: Sim Sang , Kwon Sunjeong , Koo Sangho
Published: October 2012

Homogenous bis-sulfonic acid ionic liquids (1 mol equiv.) in DMSO (10 mol equiv.) at 100 °C efficiently mediated the conversion of D-fructose into 5-hydroxymethyl-2-furfural in 75% isolated yield, which was roughly a 10% increment compared to the case of the mono-sulfonic acid ionic liquids.
Antimycobacterial Assessment of Salicylanilide Benzoates including Multidrug-Resistant Tuberculosis Strains
Authors: Krátký Martin , Vinšová Jarmila , Stolaříková Jiřina
Published: October 2012

The increasing emergence especially of drug-resistant tuberculosis has led to a strong demand for new anti-tuberculosis drugs. Eighteen salicylanilide benzoates were evaluated for their inhibition potential against Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Mycobacterium avium and two strains of Mycobacterium kansasii; minimum inhibitory concentration values ranged from 0.5 to 16 μmol/L. The most active esters underwent additional biological assays. Four benzoates inhibited effectively the growth of five multidrug-resistant strains and one extensively drug-resistant strain of M. tuberculosis at low concentrations (0.25–2 μmol/L) regardless of the resistance patterns. The highest rate of multidrug-resistant mycobacteria inhibition expressed 4-chloro-2-[4-(trifluoromethyl)-phenylcarbamoyl]phenyl benzoate (0.25–1 μmol/L). Unfortunately, the most potent esters were still considerably cytotoxic, although mostly less than their parent salicylanilides.
iParking: An Intelligent Indoor Location-Based Smartphone Parking Service
Authors: Liu Jingbin , Chen Ruizhi , Chen Yuwei , Pei Ling , Chen Liang
Published: October 2012

Indoor positioning technologies have been widely studied with a number of solutions being proposed, yet substantial applications and services are still fairly primitive. Taking advantage of the emerging concept of the connected car, the popularity of smartphones and mobile Internet, and precise indoor locations, this study presents the development of a novel intelligent parking service called iParking. With the iParking service, multiple parties such as users, parking facilities and service providers are connected through Internet in a distributed architecture. The client software is a light-weight application running on a smartphone, and it works essentially based on a precise indoor positioning solution, which fuses Wireless Local Area Network (WLAN) signals and the measurements of the built-in sensors of the smartphones. The positioning accuracy, availability and reliability of the proposed positioning solution are adequate for facilitating the novel parking service. An iParking prototype has been developed and demonstrated in a real parking environment at a shopping mall. The demonstration showed how the iParking service could improve the parking experience and increase the efficiency of parking facilities. The iParking is a novel service in terms of cost- and energy-efficient solution.
Clinical Aspects of Feline Retroviruses: A Review
Authors: Hartmann Katrin
Published: October 2012

Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) are retroviruses with global impact on the health of domestic cats. The two viruses differ in their potential to cause disease. FeLV is more pathogenic, and was long considered to be responsible for more clinical syndromes than any other agent in cats. FeLV can cause tumors (mainly lymphoma), bone marrow suppression syndromes (mainly anemia), and lead to secondary infectious diseases caused by suppressive effects of the virus on bone marrow and the immune system. Today, FeLV is less commonly diagnosed than in the previous 20 years; prevalence has been decreasing in most countries. However, FeLV importance may be underestimated as it has been shown that regressively infected cats (that are negative in routinely used FeLV tests) also can develop clinical signs. FIV can cause an acquired immunodeficiency syndrome that increases the risk of opportunistic infections, neurological diseases, and tumors. In most naturally infected cats, however, FIV itself does not cause severe clinical signs, and FIV-infected cats may live many years without any health problems. This article provides a review of clinical syndromes in progressively and regressively FeLV-infected cats as well as in FIV-infected cats.
Healing and expression of growth factors (TGF-β and PDGF) in canine radial ostectomy gap containing platelet-rich plasma
Authors: Souza T. F. B. , Ferrreira G. T. N. M. , Sakamoto S. S. , Albuquerque V. B. , Bonfim S. R. M. , Luvizotto M. C. R. , Louzada M. J. Q. , Andrade A. L.
Published: October 2012

Objectives: To evaluate bone healing in an experimental radial ostectomy in dogs treated with autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP), through histological, densitometric, radiographic studies, as well as expression of growth factors in the ostectomy gap.

Methods: Twenty-one dogs were randomly divided into either a control or a PRP group. All underwent unilateral ostectomy of the radius to generate a gap of 2.0 mm, that was stabilized with external skeletal fixation. The ostectomy gap was either filled with PRP or left empty as a control. The radiographic and densitometric studies were performed after surgery, then at intervals until 60 days during the post-surgery period. Histological and immunohistochemical evaluations were performed at seven or 60 days post-surgery. Analyses were performed using a statistical analysis system, and the level of significance was set at p <0.05.

Results: The median radiographic healing score in the PRP group increased significantly between day 0 and day 60. Furthermore, at 60 days, the median healing score and the proportion of healed ostectomies in the control group (score 1; 1/6 healed) and the PRP group (score 5; 4/5 healed) were significantly different. There were differences between groups in radiographic and densitometric values at days 45 and 60. The histological evaluation showed advanced bone healing at 60 days in the PRP group and signs of delayed union in the control group.

Clinical relevance: Platelet-rich plasma can be used as an adjuvant therapy because it may promote better bone healing of a radial ostectomy treated with external skeletal fixation in dogs.
Dual mobility canine total hip prosthesis: Implant characteristics and surgical procedure
Authors: Autefage A. , Palierne S. , Dembour T. , Chancrin J.-L. , Guillaumot P.
Published: October 2012

Prosthetic dislocation is one of the most common complications after canine hip replacement. The use of dual mobility acetabular components has been shown to reduce the rate of dislocation in first intent hip replacement in human patients who are at high risk for dislocation. In such implants, a mobile polyethylene liner articulates on one side with a metallic acetabular component and on the other side with a metallic prosthetic head. A dual mobility cemented acetabular component has been designed for use in dogs, and is available for use in association with a previously designed modular femoral component. This report describes the characteristics and the procedure for implantation of this implant combination.
Malnutrition Screening Programs in Adult Cancer Patients: Clinical Practice is Hungry for Evidence
Authors: Biggs K.
Published: October 2012

Most oncology dietitians in Canada agree that screening cancer patients for malnutrition is an important area for research, guideline development, and clinical practice[...].
Prognostic Effect of Early Treatment of Paraneoplastic Limbic Encephalitis in a Patient with Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Lalani N. , Haq R.
Published: October 2012

Paraneoplastic neurologic syndrome (pns) is an uncommon manifestation of cancer and may present before any symptoms of malignant disease. This syndrome occurs in fewer than 1 of every 10,000 patients diagnosed with a malignancy. Anti-neural antibodies have been associated with pns, suggesting that this condition may reflect immune mechanisms. Depending on the region of the nervous system that has been affected, pns can have a number of manifestations. Paraneoplastic limbic encephalitis (ple) stems from involvement of the limbic system and may present with seizures and changes in mood, memory, and personality. The present report describes the case of a 55-year-old man presenting with ple in the setting of small-cell lung cancer, with subsequent improvement of his neurologic symptoms. The value of rapid diagnosis and multidisciplinary management of this syndrome are discussed.
Bone-Targeted Agents and Skeletal-Related Events in Breast Cancer Patients with Bone Metastases: The State of the Art
Authors: Clemons M. , Gelmon K.A. , Pritchard K.I. , Paterson A.H.G.
Published: October 2012

Most women with advanced breast cancer will develop bone metastases, which are associated with the development of skeletal-related events (sres) such as pathologic fractures and spinal cord compression. This article reviews the evolving definition and incidence of sres, the pathophysiology of bone metastases, and the key evidence for the safety and efficacy of the currently available systemic treatment options for preventing and delaying sres in the setting of breast cancer with bone metastases. The bisphosphonates are structural analogues of endogenous pyrophosphate; three of them (clodronate, pamidronate, and zoledronate) are currently approved for use in Canada in the setting of breast cancer with bone metastases. Denosumab is a fully human immunoglobulin G2 monoclonal antibody that binds to human rankl (receptor activator of nuclear factor κB ligand), thereby preventing osteoclast formation, function, and survival, and reducing cancer-induced destruction of bone. Denosumab has recently been approved in Canada for reducing the risk of sres from the bone metastases associated with a variety of malignancies, including breast cancer. How to predict the patients that will benefit most from prophylactic treatment, the agents to select and the timing of switches between agents, the dosing schedules and durations of treatment to choose, the potential utility of the agents in the adjuvant setting, and the utility of additional endpoints such as markers of bone resorption are among the outstanding questions with respect to the optimal use of antiresorptive agents for patients with breast cancer and bone metastases.
Chemotherapy Uptake and Wait Times in Early-Stage Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Gray S. , Bu J. , Saint-Jacques N. , Rayson D. , Younis T.
Published: October 2012

Background: Treatment uptake and elapsed times along the care path have emerged as potential quality indicators for cancer care delivery. This retrospective study examined changes in adjuvant chemotherapy uptake and elapsed times along the care path for patients in 2005 and in 2007 who had early-stage non-small-cell lung cancer (nsclc) and who underwent curative-intent surgery in Nova Scotia, Canada. Methods: All patients who underwent curative-intent surgery for stages i–iii nsclc in the two years of interest were included. Logistic regression and general linear models were used to examine factors associated with chemotherapy uptake patterns and, at various resolutions (low, intermediate, high), elapsed times between all care events in the care path. Results: In the 223 patients who underwent curative-intent surgery (108 in 2005, 115 in 2007), several factors were associated with uptake patterns and elapsed times. Cohort year (2007 vs. 2005) was not associated with referral to medical oncology [odds ratio (or): 1.05; 95% confidence interval (ci): 0.51 to 2.15; p = 0.905], but it was associated with less treatment after referral (or: 0.34; 95% ci: 0.11 to 1.00; p = 0.057) and less overall uptake (or: 0.35; 95% ci: 0.13 to 0.95; p = 0.040). Patients were referred sooner to medical oncology in 2007 than in 2005 (21 days vs. 35 days, p = 0.008), but experienced longer waits between consultation and chemotherapy delivery (18 days vs. 7 days, p = 0.001). Conclusions: Significant differences were observed in care patterns over time. Frequent monitoring of care patterns at high resolution may optimize insights into emerging trends within cancer care systems.
Continuity Clinics in Oncology Training Programs in Canada
Authors: Croke J.M. , Vickers M.M. , E C. , Heng D.Y. , Reaume M.N. , Song X. , Meng J. , Asmis T. , Lochrin C.
Published: October 2012

Purpose: Continuity clinics (CCS) give trainees an opportunity for longitudinal follow-up of a patient cohort. Trainees can function in a semi-autonomous manner and prepare for independent practice. Data about such clinics in Canada are limited. Our objective was to assess the utility of CCS in Canadian oncology training programs. Methods: Surveys were developed by the authors for (1) medical and radiation oncology program directors (PDS) and trainees, to assess the utility of CCS in Canadian oncology training programs. (2) oncology patients, to assess their attitudes toward CCS. The PDS were contacted by e-mail, using the Web site of the Canadian Resident Matching Service; the trainees were contacted by e-mail through the PDS and their administrative assistants. Surveys were distributed electronically using SurveyMonkey. Patients were approached by staff oncologists during follow-up visits at The Ottawa Hospital Cancer Centre. Results: Completed surveys were received from 33% of trainees and 63% of PDS contacted; patient surveys were completed by 95 patients. Participation in a cc was reported by 47% of responding PDS and 37% of responding trainees. Among respondents, 80% rated the CCS as “important” or “very important” to training. The biggest challenge identified by trainees and PDS was lack of clinic space. Most PDS (57%) and trainees (59%) felt that the staff oncologist should review the patient only if the trainee has concerns, but only 37% of patients shared that view (p = 0.0002). However, many patients expressed the desire to participate in trainee education. Conclusions: Continuity clinics are considered beneficial by PDS and trainees. Patients desire more trainee supervision than the trainees themselves and the PDS do, a factor that should be considered when implementing a CC.
A First Look at Participation Rates in Cervical Cancer Screening Programs in Canada
Authors: Forte T. , Lockwood G.A. , McLachlin C.M. , Fekete S. , Bryant H.E.
Published: October 2012

In 2011, the Pan-Canadian Cervical Cancer Screening Initiative (PCCSI), supported by the Canadian Partnership Against Cancer, released Cervical Cancer Screening in Canada: Monitoring Program Performance 2006–2008 and for the first time presented information on 12 national quality indicators relating to provincial and territorial cervical cancer screening programs. [...]
Service volontaire européen : le public, les apports du programme
Authors: Cohen Delphine
Published: October 2012

Résumé Cet article prend appui sur l’évaluation du programme Jeunesse 2000-2006 réalisée pour la Commission européenne en 2007. Il se base sur un nombre important de données empiriques recueillies dans quatre régions auprès de différents acteurs : jeunes, organisations, correspondants régionaux, collectivités. Centré sur les bénéficiaires, il rend compte dans un premier temps des caractéristiques des jeunes volontaires et, dans un second temps, de la façon dont ils ont vécu cette expérience ainsi que de son impact, à plus long terme, sur la citoyenneté, l’employabilité et le sentiment d’appartenance à l’Union européenne.