bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The wall-crossing behavior
for Bridgeland’s stability conditions
on abelian and K3 surfaces
Authors: Minamide Hiroki , Yanagida Shintarou , Yoshioka Kōta
Published: June 2015

The wall-crossing behavior for Bridgeland’s stability conditions on the derived category of coherent sheaves on K3 or abelian surface is studied. We introduce two types of walls. One is called the wall for categories, where the t-structure encoded by stability condition is changed. The other is the wall for stabilities, where stable objects with prescribed Mukai vector may get destabilized.
Some fundamental properties of walls and chambers are studied, including the behavior under Fourier–Mukai transforms. A wall-crossing formula of the counting of stable objects will also be derived.
As an application, we will explain previous results on the birational maps induced by Fourier–Mukai transforms on abelian surfaces. These transformations turns out to coincide with crossing walls of certain property.
Lessons learned from the porcine CARPA model: constant and variable responses to different nanomedicines and administration protocols
Authors: Urbanics Rudolf , Bedőcs Péter , Szebeni János
Published: June 2015

Pigs provide a sensitive and quantitative animal model of complement (C) activation-related pseudoallergy (CARPA) caused by liposomes and a wide range of nanoparticulate drugs or drug nanocarriers (nanomedicines). The tetrad of symptoms (hemodynamic, hematological, laboratory and skin changes) that arise within minutes after i.v. injection of reactogenic nanomedicines (RNMs) are highly reproducible among different pigs but the presence, direction and relative severity of symptoms are very different with different RNMs and their administration schedule. Bolus administration of RNMs usually trigger pulmonary hypertension with or without various degrees of systemic hyper- or hypotension, tachy-or bradycardia, arrhythmia, blood cell and inflammatory mediator changes and skin rash. These reactions can be rapid or protracted, and fully tachyphylactic, semi-tachyphylactic or non-tachyphylactic. Slow infusion usually diminishes the reactions and/or entail delayed, protracted and less severe hemodynamic and other changes. The goal of this review is to present some technical details of the porcine CARPA model, point out its constant and variable parameters, show examples of different reactions, highlight the unique features and capabilities of the model and evaluate its utility in preclinical safety assessment. The information obtained in this model enables the understanding of the complex pathomechanism of CARPA involving simultaneous anaphylatoxin and inflammatory mediator actions at multiple sites in different organs.
Microencapsulation of diglycidyl 1,2-cyclohexanedicarboxylate by in situ polymerization: preparation and characterization
Authors: Wang Hai-Ping , Li Meng-Qiang , Guo Chang , Hu Si-Qian
Published: June 2015

Microcapsules containing a glycidyl ester-type epoxy resin were successfully synthesized by in situ polymerization, with poly(melamine-urea-formaldehyde) as the shell material and diglycidyl 1,2-cyclohexanedicarboxylate (DGCHD) as the core substance. Scanning electron microscopy was performed to investigate the surface morphology and shell wall thickness of the microcapsule. The fabrication, diameters and thermal decomposition behavior of the resultant microcapsules were studied by means of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, laser particle size analysis, and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), respectively. Results indicated that the highest loading of DGCHD in the as-prepared microcapsules was about 89.1 wt.% and that the mean diameter of the capsules was in the range of 50–130 μm, which can be adjusted by changing the feeding mass ratio of the core/shell material and emulsifying rate, respectively. TGA results showed that the microencapsulated DGCHD degraded in two distinguishable stages.
An existential expletive: fii of Jordanian Arabic
Authors: Abdel-Ghafer Osama , Jarbou Samer
Published: June 2015

Expletives have been argued to be merged in Spec, TP, Spec,
Effect of c-BN Size and Content on the Self-Propagating High-Temperature Synthesis of c-BN Composites Bonded with Ti-Al-C System Multiphase Products
Authors: Liang Baoyan , Wang Zhiwei , Zhang Yanli
Published: June 2015

A mixture of Ti, Al, graphite and c-BN powders was used as raw material to fabricate Ti2AlC matrix-bonded c-BN composite using the self-propagating high-temperature synthesis (SHS) method. The effect of c-BN size and content on the fabrication of the composites was investigated. The results show that Ti2AlC matrix-bonded c-BN composites can be obtained by SHS. c-BN content and size evidently affected the phase composition and microstructure characteristic of the composites. At 10–30% c-BN (120/140 mesh) content, the product phases were Ti2AlC, Ti3AlC2, Al3Ti, TiN, TiC, AlN, graphite and TiB2. A dense transition layer with a thickness of about 10 µm showed the interface between c-BN and the matrix. However, Al peaks appeared, and the titanium aluminium carbide peak became weak in the samples containing 40% and 50% c-BN. c-BN was unequally enwrapped by one coating with a thickness of about 2 µm. The main product phases of the samples were Ti2AlC, Ti3AlC2, Al3Ti, TiN, TiC, AlN, graphite and TiB2 in the products with different c-BN sizes. The addition of coarse c-BN particles (80/100, 120/140 and 170/200 mesh) yielded a transition layer with a thickness of approximately 10 µm on the interface and Ti2AlC main phase matrix. The finer the particle size, the greater the reaction activity. When c-BN was finer (20 μm), c-BN more easily reacted with Ti and Al to form TiN, AlN and TiB2. The synthesis of Ti2AlC was obviously inhibited.
Transition Metal Nitrides: A First Principles Study
Authors: Pathak Ashish , Singh A. K.
Published: June 2015

The present work describes the structural stability and electronic and mechanical properties of transition metal nitrides (TmNs: B1 cubic structure (cF8, Fm$$\overline 3 $$m)) using first principles density functional theory (DFT) within generalized gradient approximation (GGA). The lattice constant of TmNs increases with increasing the atomic radii of the transition metals. Stability of the TmNs decreases from IVB to VIB groups due to increase in formation energy/atom. The bonding characteristics of these nitrides have been explained based on electronic density of states and charge density. All the TmNs satisfy Born stability criteria in terms of elastic constants except CrN and MoN that do not exist in equilibrium binary phase diagrams. The groups IVB and V–VIB nitrides are associated with brittle and ductile behaviour based on G/B ratios, respectively. The estimated melting temperatures of these nitrides exhibit reasonably good agreement with calculated with B than those of theC11for all nitrides.
Becoming an English language teacher: Continuities and Discontinuities
Authors: Werbińska Dorota
Published: June 2015

The aim of the paper is to report a three-year phenomenographic study conducted on seven EFL Polish teachers with the focus on presenting how they experience different aspects of language teaching at three crucial stages: 1) the time of ELT theory studying, 2) the time of school placement, 3) the time of first-year working as professional teachers. Each stage of the study is presented from the perspective of affordances standing for the respondents’ expectations (continuities) as well as constraints (discontinuities). The article concludes that discontinuities, rather than continuities, can prove invaluable in language teacher identity development.
Digital portfolio in building teaching efficacy of pre-service teachers
Authors: Cimermanová Ivana
Published: June 2015

The paper discusses the role of e-portfolio in the development of reflective thinking in a group of pre-service English as a foreign language teachers. It stresses the benefits it can bring (e.g. autonomous learning, cooperative learning - the author highlights the social context of e-portfolio) as well as presents the threats and risks it might bring based on the own experience of the author. The results of this case study showed that the process of e-portfolio building can enhance professional development, self-confidence and the ability to self-reflect own work and progress. The author indicates also the possibilities of its use not only in the groups of pre-service teacher trainers but also in the groups of in-service teachers.
Library and school partnership on the move - a study of second language learners’ early literacy development
Authors: Damber Ulla
Published: June 2015

A study of eight multicultural suburban Swedish classes forms the backdrop of an analysis of the role of the library in students’ development towards becoming skilled readers. In-depth interviews with five teachers and one librarian involved in the classes provide empirical data, even though background information was collected with mixed research methods. The librarian’s narrative is the primary source of data in this article. The children′s educational trajectory from the preschool class to third grade is in focus. The present meta-analysis highlights the role of the library and the librarian, with respect to linkages made to the children’s overall literacy development. As a tool for analysis critical literacy theory was used, thus extending the influence of the librarian′s participation beyond the actual literacy practice, to the surrounding society. The results indicate that the library played a vital role in several ways, for teachers and students as well as for the parents. The collaboration between the librarian and the teachers started with the librarian having book talks with the children. However, she became a participant in the team’s planning and follow-up activities, linking the worlds in and out of school.
A comparative self-assessment of difficulty in learning English and German among Sudanese students
Authors: Ishag Adil , Altmayer Claus , Witruk Evelin
Published: June 2015

It is generally assumed that self-assessment plays a profound role in autonomous language learning and, accordingly, leads to learner independency. It encourages learners to prospect their own language learning processes and provides them with feedback of their learning progress. Self-assessment also raises the awareness of learners’ individual needs among both students and teachers alike and will therefore contribute to the development of the whole learning process.

The purpose of the current study is to explore and compare – through self-assessment – the level of perceived difficulty of the overall foreign language learning and language skills among Sudanese students enrolled at the English and German language departments respectively, at the University of Khartoum in Sudan. A representative sample composed of 221 students from the two departments have been asked to self-evaluate and rate the overall language difficulty and areas of difficulty in language skills, as well as their own language proficiency.

The results indicate that German language is relatively rated as a difficult language in comparison to the English language and that German grammar was also rated as more difficult. However, students rated the pronunciation and spelling of German language as easier than in English language. Concerning the language skills, reading and speaking skills were reported as more difficult in German, whereas writing and listening tend to be easier than in English. Finally, students’ academic achievements have been self-reported.
Biological control of garlic (Allium) white rot disease using antagonistic fungi-based bioformulations
Authors: Mahdizadehnaraghi Razak , Heydari Asghar , Zamanizadeh Hamid Reza , Rezaee Saeed , Nikan Jafar
Published: June 2015

White rot disease caused by Sclerotium cepivorum is a major yield reducing fungal disease of garlic found throughout the world, including Iran. The use of chemical fungicides is the most common control method for the disease at the present time. This control measure is costly, contaminates the environment, and harms non-target organisms. Moreover, since the pathogen is soil-borne, chemical control strategy is not quite effective against the disease. In this study, we tried to develop and prepare some new bioformulations based on three antagonistic fungal species: Trichoderma harzianum, T. asperellum, and Talaromyces flavus. Six isolates of the above-mentioned fungi were used along with the organic and inorganic carriers, rice bran and talc, to develop twelve new bioformulations. The effectiveness of the bioformulations were then evaluated in the control of garlic white rot disease in the greenhouse conditions in comparison with the healthy control, infected control, and the commonly used fungicide Carbendazim. The design of the experiment was completely randomised. There were 15 treatments each, with four replicates. The results of the greenhouse experiments indicated that almost all the developed bioformulations resulted in significant reductions (34.50 to 64.50%) in the incidence of white rot disease. In general, bioformulations which contained the organic carrier (rice bran) performed more effectively than those that contained the inorganic carrier (talc). Bioformulations which contained an organic carrier (rice bran) were as effective as the fungicide Carbendazim.
The Metrology of Ground Concrete Surfaces Morphology With 3D Laser Scanner
Authors: Sadowski Lukasz , Mathia Thomas G.
Published: June 2015

This paper is devoted to machining of concrete by grinding and the metrology of its surface morphologies. The surface morphology is still open problem from metrological as well as mathematical morphology points of views. In order to understand better abrasive process the raw morphologic state is compared with the ground concrete surfaces. The most significant results are presented in the form of profiles, 3D isometric views and isotropy analysis. Several 3D surface roughness parameters were calculated.
Why Does the Archbishop Not Tweet?
Authors: Gelfgren Stefan
Published: June 2015

In summer 2012, the Archbishop of the Church of Sweden appeared on Twitter. There was only one problem - it was not the Archbishop himself who was tweeting, but an anonymous person. A discussion then ensued on Twitter and in the blogosphere between those in favor of the Archbishop and his department and mainly social media proponents.

The present article describes and analyzes the social media debate, and how authority and hierarchies are negotiated in and through social media. The analysis is based on Heidi Campbell’s “Religious-Social Shaping of Technology” model, and emphasizes the need to take into account not only the faith and tradition of the religious actor, but also the societal context in which the negotiating process takes place. In this case, the concepts of “mediatization” and “secularization” are used to understand the broader context of the process.
Preliminary studies of photocatalytic activity of gypsum plasters containing TiO2 co-modified with nitrogen and carbon
Authors: Janus Magdalena , Bubacz Kamila , Zatorska Justyna , Kusiak-Nejman Ewelina , Czyżewski Adam , Morawski Antoni W.
Published: June 2015

The conducted studies were focused on the development of the gypsum material exhibiting self-cleaning properties. To this end, the raw gypsum was mixed with unique TiO2-based photocatalysts, previously modified by nitrogen and/ or carbon doping. The photocatalytic activity of the obtained gypsum plasters was evaluated trough the degradation of model organic compound (Reactive Red 198) under UV-vis irradiation. The impact of the photocatalysts presence on the physicochemical properties of the obtained gypsum plasters was evaluated. Furthermore, the role of non-metals presence on the photocatalytic properties of the TiO2 was determined. It was confirmed that the addition of N,C co-modified titanium dioxide into gypsum bestows this material with self-cleaning properties. The highest dye removal rate was displayed by the gypsum plaster containing optimal amount (10 wt%) of co-modified TiO2/N,C photocatalyst, after 20 hours of UV-vis irradiation.
Modification of industrial divinyl rubber by oxidative chlorophosphorylation and assess-ment of metal ion removal efficiency of obtained polymer sorbent
Authors: Akhmedov Vagif M. , Alfadul Sulaiman , Maharramov Abel M. , Azizov Abdulsaid A. , Alosmanov Rasim M. , Buniyad-Zadeh Irada A.
Published: June 2015

The main goal of this study was the preparation of materials containing phosphoric functionalities on the base of industrial polymer - divinyl rubber and the assessment of their removal efficiency of heavy metals from aqueous solutions. The new method concerns the oxidative chlo-rophosphorylation of divinyl rubber by PCl3 with the following modification of obtained inter-mediates to create -PO(OH)2, -OPO(OH)2 groups in the polymer chain. The obtained modified polymers get some new properties such as complex formation and capability for ion exchange. The nature and distribution of phosphoric functionalities in the polymer were studied by the methods of NMRand FTIR- spectroscopy, thermal analysis and scanning electron microscopy. The sorption properties of synthesized polymers towards some cations (Cu+2, Ni+2, Co+2 and Zn+2) from water solutions have been tested. It has been shown that the metal removal efficiency of prepared material depends on pH of medium, initial concentration and type of metal ions.
Thermodynamic analysis of medium pressure reciprocating natural gas expansion engines
Authors: Farzaneh-Gord Mahmood , Izadi Soheil , Pishbin Seyed Iman , Sheikhani Hamideh , Deymi-Dashtebayaz Mahdi
Published: June 2015

Natural gas pressure has to be reduced from medium pressure of 1.724 MPa (250 psia) to lower pressure of 0.414 MPa (60 psia) at Town Border pressure reduction Station (TBS). Currently, the pressure reduction is carried out by throttling valves while considerable amount of pressure energy is wasted. One of the equipment which could be used to recover this waste energy is the reciprocating expansion engine. The purpose of this research is to simulate one-sided reciprocating expansion engine thermodynamically for TBS pressure range. The simulation is based on first law of thermodynamics, conversation of mass and ideal gas assumptions. The model could predict in-cylinder pressure and in-cylinder temperature at various crank angles. In addition, the effects of the engine geometrical characteristics, such as intake and exhaust port area and ports timing on the Indicated work per cycle output are investigated.
Ultrasound-assisted Matrix Solid Phase Dispersion for the HPLC-DAD analysis of amphenicols in shrimps
Authors: Samanidou Victoria F. , Makrygianni Evgenia A.
Published: June 2015

Ultrasound-assisted matrix solid phase dispersive extraction was applied for the selective isolation and clean-up of three amphenicol antibiotics, chloramphenicol (CAP), thiamphenicol (TAP) and florfenicol (FFC) from shrimp. The target antibiotics were separated on a LiChroCART-LiChrospher® 100 RP-18 (5 μm, 250 × 4 mm) analytical column in less than 9 min, with isocratic elution using a mixture of 70% ammonium acetate (0.05 M) and 30% acetonitrile (v/v). Matrix Solid Phase Dispersion protocol was optimized in terms of extraction sorbent and elution solvent. Two polymer based (Oasis and Nexus) sorbents and one silica based (Lichrolut C18) were compared and different elution solvents such as methanol, acetone, acetonitrile and isopropanol were evaluated based on the achieved recovery rates as well as on the cleanup efficiency. The extraction procedure was performed with and without sonication to evaluate the impact of ultrasounds. TAP and FFC were monitored at 234 nm and CAP at 280 nm by a photodiode array detector. The method was validated according to the European Union Decision 2002/657/EC in terms of linearity, selectivity, stability, accuracy, precision and sensitivity. Detection capability values (CCb) were 64.6 μg/kg for TAP and 1046.8 μg/kg for FFC and 63.8 μg/ kg for CAP.
Isotopie-Effekte nach neutronen-induzierten Kernreaktionen in Germanium-Verbindungen
Authors: Merz E.
Published: June 2015

An den nach (n, γ)- und (n, 2n)-Reaktionen in metallorganischen Verbindungen des Germaniums isolierten chemischen Rückstoßprodukten wurden Isotopie-Effekte beobachtet. Bei der Bestrahlung von Getetraphenyl mit thermischen Neutronen konnten Verschiebungen im 71Ge/77Ge-Isotopenverhältnis sowohl an der festen (bis zu 9%) als auch an der in Cyclohexan bzw. Benzol gelösten Verbindung (bis zu 8%) gemessen werden; außerdem auch an flüssigem Gie-diphenyl (bis zu 6%). Die beim (n, 2n)-Prozeß an kristallinem Ge-tetraphenyl gefundenen 69Ge/75Ge-Isotopenverhältnisse zeigen ebenfalls deutsche Verschiebungen (bis zu 10%). Der Eifekt scheint bei der Bestrahlung im festen Zustand stärker als im flüssigen ausgeprägt zu sein. Die möglichen Ursachen für das Zustandekommen des beobachteten Isotopie-Effektes werden diskutiert.
Heteropoly Salts
Authors: Healy T. V.
Published: June 2015

A number of mixed alkali phosphotungstates such as the dicaesium sodium salt have been isolated. Mixed salts containing divalent or trivalent ions such as barium or cerium have been prepared. Similarly, mixed salts of alkali phosphomolybdates and silicotungstates have been examined. These alkali mixed salts have properties similar to the parent dialkali hydrogen heteropoly salt. Most of the simple and mixed salts of heteropoly acids examined, have strong base exchange properties and these are discussed.
Activation Analysis of the Dutch 50 c. Stamp of 1867
Authors: Flegenheimer J.
Published: June 2015

Good and bad samples of this stamp, whose price changes considerably with the colour variation, were activated in a neutron flux and the resulting activity analyzed. One day after a short irradiation the main activity is due to copper. The copper content is related to the quality of the colour and this permits an evaluation of this stamp by activation analysis.
Radiochemical Studies of Fission Induced by 14.7 MeV Neutrons
Authors: Lyle S. J. , Martin G. R. , Whitley J. E.
Published: June 2015

Measurements have been made of the yields of 14 nuclides from the fission of natural thorium (232Th) induced by neutrons of 14.7 ± 0.2 MeV. A peak-to-valley yield ratio of 5.2 is found, with the yield at the maximum of the light peak measured as 6.50 ± 0.33%. The maxima of the light and heavy peaks fall respectively at masses 91 and 137, the peak width being 12.5 mass units.

The probability of symmetric fission is discussed in terms of a simple liquid drop model, and it is shown that, over the range from 227Ra to 240Pu, this quantity shows a systematic dependence on an available energy term deduced from the model.
Graphical Representation of Double Neutron Capture in Gold and Tantalum
Authors: Heydobn K.
Published: June 2015

The planning of high flux reactor irradiations for the preparation of radioisotopes, where the effect of multiple neutron capture has to be taken into account, is facilitated by the introduction of a series of graphs representing calculated data for a wide range of fluxes.

General formulae for the calculation of activities produced by Single and double neutron capture are given, and the validity of various approximations is discussed.

Comprehensive calculations are presented for gold and tantalum in the flux range from 1011
n/cm2 • sec to 1015
n/cm2 • sec, graphs being given for maximum activities versus flux together with growth curves for discrete flux values.
Radioactivation Analysis of Manganese by Counting Deuterium Photoneutrons
Authors: Amiel S. , Stuhl Z.
Published: June 2015

A method is described for the assay of 2.58 hour 56Mn in different radioactive samples by counting photoneutrons. The high energy portion of the gamma radiation of seMn, produced upon neutron activation of samples containing manganese, causes emission of photoneutrons from a D2O reservoir incorporated in a 4π neutron counting assembly. To cause photoneutron emission from D2O the gamma ray energy must exceed 2.23 MeV and thus the method discriminates efficiently against all gamma rays of lower energies. The photoneutron activity is proportional to the 56Mn content of the sample, and submilligram quantities of manganese have been analysed with a precision of ~ 1%. Sensitivities of ~ 1 /μg and better are indicated. The only serious sources of interference are sodium and fissionable elements, when present in large proportions. The method is rapid and can be used to analyse manganese in complex matrices, without any chemical processing. The neutron counting apparatus required is relatively cheap, simple and versatile.
Selective Advantages of a Parasexual Cycle for the YeastCandida albicans
Authors: Zhang Ningxin , Magee Beatrice B , Magee Paul T , Holland Barbara R , Rodrigues Ely , Holmes Ann R , Cannon Richard D , Schmid Jan
Published: June 2015

The yeast Candida albicans can mate. However, in the natural environment mating may generate progeny (fusants) fitter than clonal lineages too rarely to render mating biologically significant: C. albicans has never been observed to mate in its natural environment, the human host, and the population structure of the species is largely clonal. It seems incapable of meiosis, and most isolates are diploid and carry both mating-type-like (MTL) locus alleles, preventing mating. Only chromosome loss or localized loss of heterozygosity can generate mating-competent cells, and recombination of parental alleles is limited. To determine if mating is a biologically significant process, we investigated if mating is under selection. The ratio of nonsynonymous to synonymous mutations in mating genes and the frequency of mutations abolishing mating indicated that mating is under selection. The MTL locus is located on chromosome 5, and when we induced chromosome 5 loss in 10 clinical isolates, most of the resulting MTL-homozygotes could mate with each other, producing fusants. In laboratory culture, a novel environment favoring novel genotypes, some fusants grew faster than their parents, in which loss of heterozygosity had reduced growth rates, and also faster than their MTL-heterozygous ancestors—albeit often only after serial propagation. In a small number of experiments in which co-inoculation of an oral colonization model with MTL-homozygotes yielded small numbers of fusants, their numbers declined over time relative to those of the parents. Overall, our results indicate that mating generates genotypes superior to existing MTL-heterozygotes often enough to be under selection.
Pathology of the Nervous System in Von Hippel-Lindau Disease
Authors: Vortmeyer Alexander O. , Alomari Ahmed K.
Published: June 2015

Von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) disease is a tumor syndrome that frequently involves the central nervous system (CNS). It is caused by germline mutation of the VHL gene. Subsequent VHL inactivation in selected cells is followed by numerous well-characterized molecular consequences, in particular, activation and stabilization of hypoxia-inducible factors HIF1 and HIF2. The link between VHL gene inactivation and tumorigenesis remains poorly understood. Hemangioblastomas are the most common manifestation in the CNS; however, CNS invasion by VHL disease-associated endolymphatic sac tumors or metastatic renal cancer also occur, and their differentiation from primary hemangioblastoma may be challenging. Finally, in this review, we present recent morphologic insights on the developmental concept of VHL tumorigenesis which is best explained by pathologic persistence of temporary embryonic progenitor cells.
A Simple Mandibular Distraction Protocol to Avoid Tracheostomy in Patients with Pierre Robin Sequence
Authors: Ching Jessica A. , Daggett Justin D. , Alvarez Sergio A. , Conley Cathy L. , Ruas Ernesto J.
Published: June 2015

Objective

Recent treatment goals for Pierre Robin sequence (PRS) focus on avoiding tracheostomy through modalities such as mandibular distraction osteogenesis (MDO). We primarily evaluated the efficacy of our straightforward MDO treatment protocol for resolution of PRS-associated airway obstruction while secondarily analyzing patient characteristics associated with success or failure of MDO.

Design

A retrospective chart review before and after treatment.

Setting

Tertiary institutional center and private practice setting.

Patients

All patients were diagnosed with PRS and treated with MDO, according to the MDO treatment protocol, by a single surgeon with the same operative technique from 1999 to 2013. A sample size of n = 38 met the inclusion criteria. Data assessed included tracheostomy status (pre-MDO, post-MDO, or none), microlaryngoscopy and bronchoscopy (MLB) findings, multipositional airway study results, clinical resolution of airway obstruction following MDO, and patient characteristics.

Main Outcome Measure

Resolution of airway obstruction with avoidance of a tracheostomy.

Results

Prior to referral for MDO, five patients required urgent tracheostomy. Of patients without a pre-MDO tracheostomy (n = 33), two patients required tracheostomy post-MDO, while 94% avoided tracheostomy with clinical resolution of airway obstruction (n = 31). On secondary analysis, anatomic abnormalities diagnosed by MLB were associated with a higher rate of tracheostomy ( P = .037), confirming the utility of preoperative evaluation with MLB; otherwise, no patient characteristics demonstrated significance in patient selection. Follow-up ranged from 6 months to 10 years (mean = 6.45 years, median = 7.61 years).

Conclusions

Our treatment protocol demonstrates MDO is highly effective for resolving severe airway obstruction related to PRS. Based on secondary analysis, our simplified protocol does not require amendment.
Opportunities and Challenges in Establishing a Cohort Study: An Example from Cleft Lip/Palate Research in the United Kingdom
Authors: Stock Nicola Marie , Humphries Kerry , Pourcain Beate St , Bailey Maggie , Persson Martin , Ho Karen M. , Ring Susan , Marsh Cathy , Albery Liz , Rumsey Nichola , Sandy Jonathan
Published: June 2015

Background

Cleft lip and/or palate (CL/P) is one of the most common birth conditions in the world, but little is known about its causes. Professional opinion remains divided as to which treatments may be the most beneficial for patients with CL/P, and the factors that contribute to psychological adjustment are poorly understood. The use of different methodological approaches and tools plays a key role in hampering efforts to address discrepancies within the evidence base. A new UK-wide program of research, The Cleft Collective, was established to combat many of these methodological challenges and to address some of the key research questions important to all CL/P stakeholders.

Objective

To describe the establishment of CL/P cohort studies in the United Kingdom and to consider the many opportunities this resource will generate.

Results

To date, protocols have been developed and implemented within most UK cleft teams. Biological samples, environmental information, and data pertaining to parental psychological well-being and child development are being collected successfully. Recruitment is currently on track to meet the ambitious target of approximately 9800 individuals from just more than 3000 families.

Conclusions

The Cleft Collective cohort studies represent a significant step forward for research in the field of CL/P. The data collected will form a comprehensive resource of information about individuals with CL/P and their families. This resource will provide the basis for many future projects and collaborations, both in the United Kingdom and around the world.
Is There an Increasing Regionalization of Surgical Repair of Craniosynostosis Procedures into Teaching Hospitals? Implications of Regionalization
Authors: Allareddy Veerasathpurush
Published: June 2015

Objective

The objective of the present study is to examine whether surgical repairs for craniosynostosis have been regionalized to teaching hospitals over the 8-year period from 2003 to 2010.

Design

Retrospective analysis of hospital discharge database.

Setting

Nationwide Inpatient Sample for years 2003 to 2010. All patients aged up to 3 years who had a surgical repair for craniosynostosis were selected.

Interventions

Surgical repair for craniosynostosis.

Main Outcome Measures

Performance of surgery in a teaching hospital.

Result

During the study period (years 2003 to 2010), a total of 19,417 patients aged up to 3 years underwent a surgical repair for craniosynostosis. The number of surgical procedures increased during the study period. It ranged from 1628 procedures in year 2003 to 3001 procedures during 2010. Data show that 83.3% of all procedures in 2003 were performed in teaching hospitals; whereas, 97.5% of procedures in 2010 were performed in teaching hospitals. Following adjustment for patient-level factors, year 2010 was associated with increased odds of having the surgical procedures performed in a teaching hospital as opposed to a nonteaching hospital when compared with year 2003 (odds ratio = 10.43, 95% confidence interval, 1.10 to 98.98; P = .04).

Conclusions

An increasing proportion of surgical repairs of craniosynostosis are performed in teaching hospitals, suggesting there is an increasing concentration of these complex surgical procedures in select centers. As more longitudinal data become available, the relative benefits and drawbacks associated with regionalization of surgical repairs of craniosynostosis should be examined.
Una mirada sobre la fábula española del XIX. Las fábulas de Pascual Fernández Baeza
Authors: Martínez Fernández José Enrique
Published: June 2015

Una mirada sobre la fábula española del XIX. Las fábulas de Pascual Fernández Baeza
Una selección de fábulas de Esopo y de la posterior tradición española: análisis y posibilidades didácticas de las mismas en las aulas de educación primaria
Authors: Montaner Bueno Andrés
Published: June 2015

Una selección de fábulas de Esopo y de la posterior tradición española: análisis y posibilidades didácticas de las mismas en las aulas de educación primaria
Presencia y ecos de fábulas esópicas en el "Baldo"
Authors: Pastrana Santamarta Tomasa
Published: June 2015

Presencia y ecos de fábulas esópicas en el "Baldo"
Decreasing Hepatitis C Incidence Among a Population With Repeated Tests: British Columbia, Canada, 1993–2011
Authors: Kuo Margot , Janjua Naveed Z. , Burchell Ann N. , Buxton Jane A. , Krajden Mel , Gilbert Mark
Published: June 2015

Objectives. We estimated HCV incidence among individuals who repeatedly underwent anti-HCV testing.

Methods. We studied HCV-negative individuals who had at least 2 tests between April 1992 and September 2012 in British Columbia, Canada. We calculated incidence as the number of new infections per 100 person-years at risk.

Results. From 1992 to 2012, 323 598 individuals who persistently tested negative and 7490 HCV seroconverters contributed 1 774 262 person-years of observation time. Incidence rates ranged from 2.66 infections per 100 person-years (95% confidence interval [CI] = 2.07, 3.35) in 1993 to 0.25 infections per 100 person-years (95% CI = 0.21, 0.29) in 2011. Rates declined sharply in the 1990s and declined more gradually in the 2000s. Incidence declined with age; highest incidence rates were among those aged 15 to 24 years. Incidence among male repeat testers exceeded that of female repeat testers across all years, although the gap narrowed over time.

Conclusions. Addictions treatment, harm reduction, prevention education, and novel initiatives to remove barriers in health infrastructure need to be intensified for those who inject drugs, particularly men and younger persons.
Effect of Depression on Risky Drinking and Response to a Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment Intervention
Authors: Montag Annika C. , Brodine Stephanie K. , Alcaraz John E. , Clapp John D. , Allison Matthew A. , Calac Dan J. , Hull Andrew D. , Gorman Jessica R. , Jones Kenneth Lyons , Chambers Christina D.
Published: June 2015

We assessed alcohol consumption and depression in 234 American Indian/Alaska Native women (aged 18–45 years) in Southern California. Women were randomized to intervention or assessment alone and followed for 6 months (2011–2013). Depression was associated with risk factors for alcohol-exposed pregnancy (AEP). Both treatment groups reduced drinking (P < .001). Depressed, but not nondepressed, women reduced drinking in response to SBIRT above the reduction in response to assessment alone. Screening for depression may assist in allocating women to specific AEP prevention interventions.
Extensive Lower-Extremity Deep Venous Thrombosis Following Arthroscopic Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction Related to May-Thurner Syndrome
Authors: Ackerman Jeffrey , Kurdziel Michael D. , Dutcheshen Nicholas T.
Published: June 2015

Case:

An extensive iliofemoral-popliteal deep venous thrombosis following arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction presented on the ninth postoperative day as the result of underlying May-Thurner syndrome. The patient was managed with therapeutic anticoagulation and mechanical disruption of the thrombus. The focal stenosis of the left common iliac vein was addressed with angioplasty and stent placement. Repeat venography demonstrated no residual stenosis of the vein.

Conclusion:

A multidisciplinary approach remains necessary for treating and reducing the risk of post-thrombotic syndrome. The present case further emphasizes the need for aggressive workup and response when a patient presents with left-sided deep venous thrombosis associated with underlying May-Thurner syndrome.
The Creation and Segmentation of the Euronext Stock Exchange: A Solution to the Inadequacy of National Securities Regulators?
Authors: Pownall Grace , Vulcheva Maria , Wang Xue
Published: June 2015

SYNOPSIS

We investigate whether cross-border stock exchange segmentation is a viable solution to persisting national institutional differences. To do so we examine the effect of exchange segmentation accompanying the Euronext merger on the liquidity and reporting quality of firms listed on the four exchanges (Amsterdam, Brussels, Paris, and Lisbon) participating in the merger. Euronext integrated the four trading platforms and started clearing all trades through one system. While trading, clearance, and settlement became common for all Euronext firms, these firms continued to be regulated by the regulatory agencies of their own home exchanges, and the strength of enforcement differed considerably across the four exchanges. At the same time, Euronext required higher, uniform disclosure for firms choosing to list on its two named segments, which could lead to increased liquidity if the segments successfully circumvented national limitations on regulation. We document significant increases in liquidity and accounting quality for segment firms relative to non-segment firms, in particular for those segment firms that complied more fully with the provisions of their pre-commitments. Taken together, our findings suggest that exchange segmentation at the time of a cross-border exchange merger might circumvent the inadequacy of national security regulators.
The Credit Cycle and the Business Cycle in Canada and the United States: Two Solitudes?
Authors: Siklos Pierre L. , Lavender Brady
Published: June 2015

Recent events highlight the relationship between credit availability and aggregate output. Macroeconomic models for Canada are estimated to investigate links between non-price lending standards, business loans, and output. US macroeconomic and financial market conditions are allowed to impact the Canadian economy. Responses to financial shocks differ in the two countries. Real-time data have a significant impact on the results. The United States and Canada may be “two solitudes” insofar as the impact of credit conditions is concerned. Differences in the quality of banking supervision and in the effectiveness of monetary policies in the two countries may partially explain the results.
(Re)Shaping History in Bosnian and Herzegovinian Museums
Authors: Lozic Vanja
Published: June 2015

The current article explores how political changes in the past 130 years have shaped and reshaped three major museums in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH). The overall aim is to describe structural processes of national museum building in BiH and the ways the museological representation of history is connected to state and nation making and to political transitions and crises. The analysed museums are the National Museum of BiH, the History Museum of BiH, and the Museum of the Republic of Srpska. The source material analysed consists of the directories and the titles of exhibitions; secondary material, which describes previous exhibitions; and virtual museum tours. The article illustrates that during the Austrian-Hungarian Empire, which established the National Museum in 1888, the museum played an important part in the representation of Bosnian identity (bosnjastvo). After World War II, in the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia, all three analysed museums were summoned to interpret the past in accordance with the guidelines of the communist regime. Since the 1990s, a highly ethnicized process of identity building and of the musealization of heritage, and history permeates all three museums analysed here. When it comes to the central exhibition-themes following the 1990s war, one could conclude that whereas the National Museum and the History Museum highlight the recent creation of an independent BiH and ostracize BIH-Serbs, the Museum of the Republic of Srpska asserts the ostensible distinctiveness of the Republic of Srpska and excludes the narratives about BiH as a unified and independent nation-state. If an agreement about the future of BiH and its history is to be reached, a step towards multi-vocal historical narratives has to be made from both sides.
Simulating the Effect of Climate Change on Vegetation Zone Distribution on the Loess Plateau, Northwest China
Authors: Li Guoqing , Wen Zhongming , Guo Ke , Du Sheng
Published: June 2015

A risk assessment of vegetation zone responses to climate change was conducted using the classical Holdridge life zone model on the Loess Plateau of Northwest China. The results show that there are currently ten vegetation zones occurring on the Loess Plateau (1950–2000), including alvar desert, alpine wet tundra, alpine rain tundra, boreal moist forest, boreal wet forest, cool temperate desert, cool temperate desert scrub, cool temperate steppe, cool temperate moist forest, warm temperate desert scrub, warm temperate thorn steppe, and warm temperate dry forest. Seventy years later (2070S), the alvar desert, the alpine wet tundra and the cool temperate desert will disappear, while warm temperate desert scrub and warm temperate thorn steppe will emerge. The area proportion of warm temperate dry forest will expand from 12.2% to 22.8%–37.2%, while that of cool temperate moist forest will decrease from 18.5% to 6.9%–9.5%. The area proportion of cool temperate steppe will decrease from 51.8% to 34.5%–51.6%. Our results suggest that future climate change will be conducive to the growth and expansion of forest zones on the Loess Plateau, which can provide valuable reference information for regional vegetation restoration planning and adaptive strategies in this region.
Identification of Site-Specific Stroke Biomarker Candidates by Laser Capture Microdissection and Labeled Reference Peptide
Authors: Lian Tingting , Qu Daixin , Zhao Xu , Yu Lixia , Gao Bing
Published: June 2015

The search to date for accurate protein biomarkers in acute ischemic stroke has taken into consideration the stage and/or the size of infarction, but has not accounted for the site of stroke. In the present study, multiple reaction monitoring using labeled reference peptide (LRP) following laser capture microdissection (LCM) is used to identify site-specific protein biomarker candidates. In middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) rat models, both intact and infarcted brain tissue was collected by LCM, followed by on-film digestion and semi-quantification using triple-quadrupole mass spectrometry. Thirty-four unique peptides were detected for the verification of 12 proteins in both tissue homogenates and LCM-captured samples. Six insoluble proteins, including neurofilament light polypeptide (NEFL), alpha-internexin (INA), microtubule-associated protein 2 (MAP2), myelin basic protein (MBP), myelin proteolipid protein (PLP) and 2′,3′-cyclic-nucleotide 3′-phosphodiesterase (CNP), were found to be site-specific. Soluble proteins, such as neuron-specific enolase (NSE) and ubiquitin carboxyl-terminal hydrolase isozyme L1 (UCHL1), and some insoluble proteins, including neurofilament heavy polypeptide (NEFH), glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), microtubule-associated protein tau (MAPT) and tubulin β-3 chain (TUBB3), were found to be evenly distributed in the brain. Therefore, we conclude that some insoluble protein biomarkers for stroke are site-specific, and would make excellent candidates for the design and analysis of relevant clinical studies in the future.
Aedes aegypti Control Strategies in Brazil: Incorporation of New Technologies to Overcome the Persistence of Dengue Epidemics
Authors: Araújo Helena , Carvalho Danilo , Ioshino Rafaella , Costa-da-Silva André , Capurro Margareth
Published: June 2015

Dengue is considered to be the most important mosquito-borne viral disease in the world. The Aedes aegypti mosquito, its vector, is highly anthropophilic and is very well adapted to urban environments. Although several vaccine candidates are in advanced stages of development no licensed dengue vaccine is yet available. As a result, controlling the spread of dengue still requires that mosquitoes be targeted directly. We review the current methods of dengue vector control focusing on recent technical advances. We first examine the history of Brazil’s National Dengue Control Plan in effect since 2002, and we describe its establishment and operation. With the persistent recurrence of dengue epidemics, current strategies should be reassessed to bring to the forefront a discussion of the possible implementation of new technologies in Brazil’s mosquito control program.
Extraction, Isolation, Structural Characterization and Anti-Tumor Properties of an Apigalacturonan-Rich Polysaccharide from the Sea Grass Zostera caespitosa Miki
Authors: Lv Youjing , Shan Xindi , Zhao Xia , Cai Chao , Zhao Xiaoliang , Lang Yinzhi , Zhu He , Yu Guangli
Published: June 2015

An apigalacturonan (AGA)-rich polysaccharide, ZCMP, was isolated from the sea grass Zostera caespitosa Miki. The depolymerized fragments derived from ZCMP were obtained by either acidic degradation or pectinase degradation, and their structures were characterized by electrospray ionization collision-induced-dissociation mass spectrometry (ESI-CID-MS2) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. The average molecular weight of ZCMP was 77.2 kD and it consisted of galacturonic acid (GalA), apiosefuranose (Api), galactose (Gal), rhamnose (Rha), arabinose (Ara), xylose (Xyl), and mannose (Man), at a molar ratio of 51.4꞉15.5꞉6.0꞉11.8꞉4.2꞉4.4꞉4.2. There were two regions of AGA (70%) and rhamnogalacturonan-I (RG-Ι, 30%) in ZCMP. AGA was composed of an α-1,4-D-galactopyranosyluronan backbone mainly substituted at the O-3 position by single Api residues. RG-Ι possessed a backbone of repeating disaccharide units of →4GalAα1,2Rhaα1→, with a few α-L-arabinose and β-D-galactose residues as side chains. The anti-angiogenesis assay showed that ZCMP inhibited the migratory activity of human umbilical vein endothelial cell (HUVECs), with no influence on endothelial cells growth. ZCMP also promoted macrophage phagocytosis. These findings of the present study demonstrated the potential anti-tumor activity of ZCMP through anti-angiogenic and immunoregulatory pathways.