bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bilingualism and auditory processing abilities: performance of adults in dichotic listening tests
Authors: Gresele Amanda Dal Piva , Garcia Michele Vargas , Torres Enma Mariángel Ortiz , Santos Sinéia Neujahr dos Santos , Costa Maristela Julio
Published: April 2014

Purpose: To evaluate and compare the dichotic listening abilities in non-hearing-impaired adults monolingual speakers of the Brazilian Portuguese language (CG) and simultaneous Brazilian Portuguese-German (GG) bilingual speakers or successive Brazilian Portuguese-Italian bilingual speakers (IG). Methods: This is about an observational, descriptive, transverse and quantitative research. The sample consisted of 87 subjects aged between 18 and 55 years, divided into: Control Group (CG), of 30 monolingual speakers of Brazilian Portuguese; Study Group A (SGA), of 31 simultaneous Brazilian Portuguese-German bilingual speakers; and Study Group I (SGI), of 26 successive Brazilian Portuguese-Italian speakers. The individuals were submitted to the Dichotic digits test (DDT) and to Staggered Spondaic Words (SSW). Results: The DTT results showed difference in right ear and total scores when comparing SGA to CG. Comparing the CG and the SGI, it was observed difference in right and left ears and total scores. Comparing the SGA and the SGI, no difference was observed between the groups. Results of SSW showed that both bilingual groups were significantly better in the right and left ears scores and even in total one when compared to CG. Comparing the SGA and the SGI, the SGI showed better significant scores in the right ear and total. Conclusion: Bilingual experiences seem to influence positively the ability of high predictability dichotic listening, evaluated by DDT, and the low predictability dichotic listening, evaluated by SSW test. The SSW results also showed statistically significantly better results for successive Brazilian Portuguese-Italian bilingual speakers when compared to simultaneous Brazilian Portuguese-German speakers.
Identification of risk groups for oropharyngeal dysphagia in hospitalized patients in a university hospital
Authors: Bassi Daiane , Furkim Ana Maria , Silva Cristiane Alves , Coelho Mara Sérgia Pacheco Honório , Rolim Maria Rita Pimenta , Alencar Maria Luiza Aires de , Machado Marcos José
Published: April 2014

Purpose: To identify risk groups for oropharyngeal dysphagia in hospitalized patients in a university hospital. Methods: The study was design as an exploratory cross-sectional with quantitative data analysis. The researched population consisted of 32 patients admitted to the medical clinic at the university hospital. Patient history data were collected, followed by a universal swallowing screening which included functional feeding assessment, to observe clinical signs and symptoms of dysphagia, and assessment of nutritional status through anthropometric data and laboratory tests. Results: Of the total sample, the majority of patients was male over 60 years. The most common comorbidities related to patients with signs and symptoms of dysphagia were chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, systemic arterial hypertension, congestive heart failure, diabetes mellitus and acute myocardial infarction. The food consistency that showed higher presence of clinical signs of aspiration was pudding and the predominant sign was wet voice. Conclusion: There is a high incidence of risk for oropharyngeal dysphagia in hospitalized patients and an even higher rate of hospitalized patients with nutritional deficits or already malnourished. Hospitalized patients with respiratory diseases, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, congestive heart failure and patients with xerostomia were indicated as risk group for oropharyngeal dysphagia.
Construction and validation of an instrument to assess the reading comprehension of students from the third to the fifth grades of elementary school
Authors: Cunha Vera Lúcia Orlandi , Capellini Simone Aparecida
Published: April 2014

Purpose: In this study, we aimed at building and validating an instrument to assess reading comprehension, with the purpose of characterizing the reading profile and detecting comprehension difficulties among students from the third to the fifth grades of elementary school. Methods: Participants were 378 students, divided into three groups. Their comprehension of micro- and macrostructural literal and inferential propositions that composed two expository texts and two narrative texts were assessed by means of multiple-choice questions. Results: The data analyzed statistically yielded Cronbach's alpha values showing internal consistency in the four texts applied to the three groups. Conclusion: It was possible to verify that the students had fewer errors as the school years progressed and that each type of text posed a particular difficulty to the students.
Pattern and Process of Fig (Ficus carica) Invasion in a California Riparian Forest
Authors: Holmes Katherine A. , Greco Steven E. , Berry Alison M.
Published: April 2014

The common edible fig is a subcanopy tree that has invaded many of the remnant riparian forests of California's Central Valley. Fig is unusual in its ability to invade low-light, low-disturbance, native-plant–dominated environments. Dendrochronology combined with regression and spatial analyses allowed us to empirically quantify the expansion rate and spatial pattern of the fig invasion into the native plant community at Caswell Memorial State Park (Ripon, CA) over a 70-year invasion period. Fig uses a combination of short-distance dispersal, which results in constant, linear expansion at source population sites and long-distance dispersal, which eventually leads to high recruitment of satellite populations in ideal environments. Although fig initially experienced a long lag in its invasion rate, at the time of this study, it was expanding at an exponential rate at the landscape scale in Caswell. We identified a number of characteristics intrinsic to the fig population (shade suppression, pollinator presence, highly specialized reproduction, and propagule pressure) as well as extrinsic characteristics of the receiving environment (hydrologic alteration from the construction of a dam, safe sites for juvenile recruitment, and target effects from environmental heterogeneity) that may have influenced the rate and pattern of fig invasion. The Central Valley riparian forests have been reduced to less than 6% of their original area, and invasive fig is a significant threat to the remaining fragments of this important vegetation community. We include suggestions for fig eradication based on knowledge gained in this study.
The Relative Risk of Invasion: Evaluation ofMiscanthus×giganteusSeed Establishment
Authors: Smith Larissa L. , Barney Jacob N.
Published: April 2014

The sterile hybrid, giant miscanthus, has emerged as a promising cellulosic bioenergy crop because of its rapid growth rate, high biomass yields, and tolerance to poor growing conditions; these are traits that are desirable for cultivation, but also have caused concern for their contribution to invasiveness. New seed-bearing lines of giant miscanthus would decrease establishment costs for growers, yet this previously unresearched propagule source increases fears of escape from cultivation. To evaluate the consequences of seed escape, we compared seedling establishment among seven habitats: no-till agricultural field, agricultural field edge, forest understory, forest edge, riparian, pasture and roadside; these were replicated in Virginia (Blacksburg and Virginia Beach) and Georgia (Tifton), USA. We use a novel head-to-head comparison of giant miscanthus against five invasive and three noninvasive species, thus generating relative comparisons. Overall seed germination was low, with no single species achieving germination rates >37%, in all habitats and geographies. However, habitats with available bare ground and low resident plant competition, such as the agricultural field and forest understory, were more invasible by all species. Giant miscanthus seeds emerged in the roadside and forest edge habitats at all sites. Early in the growing season, we observed significantly more seedlings of giant miscanthus than the invasive and noninvasive species in the agricultural field. Interestingly, overall seedling mortality of giant miscanthus was 99.9%, with only a single 4 cm (1.58 in) tall giant miscanthus seedling surviving at the conclusion of the 6-mo study. The ability to make relative comparisons, by using multiple control species, was necessary for our conclusions in which both giant miscanthus and the noninvasive control species survival (≤1%) contrasted with that of our well-documented invasive species (≤10%). Considering the low overall emergence, increased propagule pressure may be necessary to increase the possibility of giant miscanthus escape. Knowledge gained from our results may help prepare for widespread commercialization, while helping to identify susceptible habitats to seedling establishment and aiding in the development of management protocols.
Effects of EPS bead inclusions on stress–strain behaviour of sand
Authors: Edinçliler A. , Özer A.T.
Published: April 2014

ABSTRACT: Lightweight fill solutions have been used in many civil engineering projects throughout the world. At locations with poor soil conditions, alternative lightweight construction fill materials such as expanded polystyrene (EPS) geofoam, wood chips, and tyre wastes may be used instead of conventional fill materials. These materials are used as an additive for the soil. It is known that the type, aspect ratio and content of the admixtures have an important role in the mechanical properties of the mixtures. The main objective of this study was to assess the feasibility of the potential use of EPS beads in geotechnical applications. The effect of EPS bead gradation on the stress–strain behaviour of lightweight composite materials composed of EPS bead–sand mixtures (EPS–sand) was investigated through a series of triaxial compression tests under three different confining pressures. Three different types of spherical EPS beads with different unit weights (EPS-1, EPS-2, and EPS-3) were mixed with sand with varying EPS bead content. This study has shown that the deviatoric stress of a EPS–sand mixture is not only a function of volumetric EPS bead content but it also depends on EPS bead grain size distribution (EPS bead type). Whereas volumetric EPS bead content increases when all other variables are constant (EPS bead type in EPS–sand), the initial modulus of elasticity decreases linearly. Consequently, EPS bead inclusion did not enhance the maximum deviatoric stress of EPS–sand when compared with that of the sand-only specimen. However, bead addition provides a lightweight aspect to the mixture which can be attractive to use in many geotechnical engineering projects. EPS bead content, confining pressure and EPS bead type-dependent multiple linear regression (MLR) equations were proposed to estimate the initial undrained elastic modulus of EPS–sand to reduce the cost and time involved in conventional laboratory testing of EPS–sand mixtures. Based on the stress–strain behaviour of EPS–sand, these mixtures may be utilised in geotechnical applications as a lightweight fill material.
Model tests on single and groups of stone columns with different geosynthetic reinforcement arrangement
Authors: Ali K. , Shahu J.T. , Sharma K.G.
Published: April 2014

ABSTRACT: Stone columns have proved to be a useful technique for supporting flexible structures resting on soft soils. However, in the case of very soft soils, stone columns have encountered excessive settlements due to insufficient lateral resistance offered by the soft soil against bulging of the columns upon loading. The bulging may be reduced to a great extent by reinforcing the columns either by encasing them with geosynthetics or by placing horizontal circular discs of geosynthetics within the columns at a regular interval. In the present study, model tests have been carried out on long floating and end-bearing single and groups of columns with and without reinforcement to evaluate the relative improvement in the failure stress of the composite ground due to different types of reinforcement. The exhumed deformed column shapes were used to understand the failure mechanism for different types and configurations of reinforcement. The geogrid was the best geosynthetic type for encasement for end-bearing columns; for floating columns, geotextile and geogrid were equally good for horizontal circular discs and encasement configurations.
Novel Implant Design Improves Implant Survival in Multirooted Extraction Sites: A Preclinical Pilot Study
Authors: Sivan‐Gildor Adi , Machtei Eli E. , Gabay Eran , Frankenthal Shai , Levin Liran , Suzuki Marcelo , Coelho Paulo G. , Zigdon‐Giladi Hadar
Published: April 2014

Background: The primary aim is to evaluate clinical, radiographic, and histologic parameters of novel implants with “three roots” design that were inserted into fresh multirooted extraction sockets. A secondary aim is to compare this new implant to standard root‐form dental implants.

Methods: Immediate implantation of novel or standard design 6 × 6‐mm implants was performed bilaterally into multirooted sockets in mandibles of mini‐pigs. Twelve weeks later, clinical, radiographic, stability, histomorphometric, and microcomputed tomography (micro‐CT) analyses were performed.

Results: Survival rates were significantly higher in the test implants compared with control (92.8% versus 33.3%, respectively; P <0.001). Bone loss was greater in the control compared with the test by sounding (mean 3.42 ± 0.68 versus 1.96 ± 0.34 mm) and radiography (mean 3.35 ± 0.62 versus 2.27 ± 0.33 mm). Histologic and micro‐CT analyses demonstrated bone fill in the inner part of the test implants. Moreover, bone‐to‐implant contact was higher in the test implants (55.50% ± 3.68% versus 42.47% ± 9.89%). Contrary to the clinical, radiographic, and histomorphometric results, resonance frequency analysis measurements were greater in the control group (77.74 ± 3.21 implant stability quotient [ISQ]) compared with the test group (31.09 ± 0.28 ISQ), P = 0.008.

Conclusions: The novel design implants resulted in significantly greater survival rate in multirooted extraction sites. Further studies will be required to validate these findings.
Fusion Kalman filtration for distributed multisensor systems
Authors: Duda Zdzisław
Published: April 2014

In the paper, fusion state hierarchical filtration for a multisensor system is considered. An optimal global Kalman filter is realized by a central node in the information form. The state estimate depends on local information that should be sent by local nodes. Two information structures are considered in the paper.

In the first case local estimates are based on the local measurement information. It leads to distributed Kalman filter fusion that is well known in a literature. In the second case local node has additionally global information of the system with one step delay. A synthesis of local filters is presented. An advantage of this structure is discussed.
Walsh-Marcinkiewicz means and Hardy spaces
Authors: Nagy Károly , Tephnadze George
Published: April 2014

The main aim of this paper is to investigate the Walsh-Marcinkiewicz means on the Hardy space H
p, when 0 < p < 2/3. We define a weighted maximal operator of Walsh-Marcinkiewicz means and establish some of its properties. With its aid we provide a necessary and sufficient condition for convergence of the Walsh-Marcinkiewicz means in terms of modulus of continuity on the Hardy space H
p, and prove a strong convergence theorem for the Walsh-Marcinkiewicz means.
Thermal self-action effects for acoustic beams containing fronts in a Maxwell relaxing fluid
Authors: Perelomova Anna
Published: April 2014

This paper examines the thermal self-action of acoustic beams in a Maxwell relaxing fluid. This type of thermal self-action differs from that in a Newtonian fluid and behaves differently depending on a ratio of sound period and time of thermodynamic relaxation. The self-action which relates to sound beams containing shock fronts is also discussed. In addition, stationary and non-stationary types of self-action are considered.
Endoparasites of exotic snakes (Ophidia)
Authors: Okulewicz A. , Kaźmierczak M. , Zdrzalik K.
Published: April 2014

Exotic reptiles, among them snakes, are a novelty in the world of pets. A total of 28 snakes housed in the City Zoological Garden in Wrocław and 23 snakes from zoological wholesale were examined for the presence of endoparasites. Both parasitological sections of dead reptiles and coprological examination were done. Endoparasites were detected in a total of 13.7 % of snakes, including 21.7 % of those coming from the zoological wholesale and 7.1 % of the zoo-kept snakes. Two groups of protozoa were detected: Choleoeimeria sp. and Ciliata, as well as nematodes: Kalicephalus sp., Dioctowittidae and a pinworm (Oxyurida). The zoo snakes were also found to carry pseudoparasites.
Effects of the root-knot nematodes Meloidogyne incognita and M. javanica on olive plants growth in glasshouse conditions
Authors: Jahanshahi Afshar F. , Sasanelli N. , Hosseininejad S. , Tanha Maafi Z.
Published: April 2014

The influence of ten initial population levels (0, 0.1, 0.2, 0.4, 0.8, 1.6, 3.2, 6.4, 12.8 and 25.6 second stage juveniles/cm3 soil) of Meloidogyne incognita and M. javanica on olive cultivar Zard growth was studied in two pot trials. Ten month old self-rooted olive cuttings were individually transplanted into 2 000 cm3 pot and inoculated with the defined initial populations, of both nematode species. Plants were grown in glasshouse for 13 months, then they were uprooted and plant growth (percent growth increase of main shoot length, number of nodes on main shoot, top and root fresh and dry weights and root length) and nematode parameters (root gall index, J2/g root, final nematode population density and reproduction rate Pf/Pi) were recorded. Results showed that cv. Zard was more susceptible to M. javanica than to M. incognita. A significant reduction of main shoot length growth 37.6 % and 10.7 % was observed at 0.1 and 12.8 juveniles/cm3 soil of M. javanica and M. incognita, respectively, in comparison to uninfested plants. Root systems of olive plants grown in M. incognita or M. javanica infested soils were galled within the gall index range 1.4–6. No significant differences were observed in the number of nodes on main shoot, top and root fresh weights and root dry weight at high levels of M. incognita Pi. A tolerance limit (T) of 0.4 juveniles/cm3 soil was estimated for olive plants cv. Zard to M. javania. The use of resistant olive rootstock or selected cultivars is recommended to minimize or to limit damage of nematode infections in nurseries and to prevent secondary attacks of soil borne plant pathogens especially Verticillium dahliae.
Helminth burden in stray cats from Thessaloniki, Greece
Authors: Lefkaditis M. , Paştiu A. , Rodi-Buriel A. , Sossidou A. , Panorias A. , Eleftheriadis T. , Cozma V. , Mihalca A.
Published: April 2014

To get an overview on the prevalence of intestinal helminths, between 2010 and 2012, fecal samples from 215 stray cats from area of Thessaloniki, Greece, were tested by coprological methods. From the total number of fecal samples examined, 55.8 % were infected with at least one intestinal parasite and 16.3 % had co-infection. Five different parasite species were found. The most prevalent helminth was Dipylidium caninum (39.53 %), followed by Toxocara cati (18.14 %), Ancylostoma spp. (11.63 %), Taenia taeniaeformis (8.37 %) and Toxascaris leonina (0.93 %). The results showed that A. tubaeforme and T. taeniaeformis were more prevalent in males, while D. caninum, T. cati and T. leonina in female cats, without statistical significance. The prevalence of Ancylostoma spp. and T. cati were significantly higher in young cats (< 1 year old) than in adults (> 1 year old). The most common association was between D. caninum and T. cati.
MetaJC++: A flexible and automatic program transformation technique using meta framework
Authors: Beevi Nadera , Reghu M. , Chitraprasad D. , Vinodchandra S.
Published: April 2014

Compiler is a tool to translate abstract code containing natural language terms to machine code. Meta compilers are available to compile more than one languages. We have developed a meta framework intends to combine two dissimilar programming languages, namely C++ and Java to provide a flexible object oriented programming platform for the user. Suitable constructs from both the languages have been combined, thereby forming a new and stronger Meta-Language. The framework is developed using the compiler writing tools, Flex and Yacc to design the front end of the compiler. The lexer and parser have been developed to accommodate the complete keyword set and syntax set of both the languages. Two intermediate representations have been used in between the translation of the source program to machine code. Abstract Syntax Tree has been used as a high level intermediate representation that preserves the hierarchical properties of the source program. A new machine-independent stack-based byte-code has also been devised to act as a low level intermediate representation. The byte-code is essentially organised into an output class file that can be used to produce an interpreted output. The results especially in the spheres of providing C++ concepts in Java have given an insight regarding the potential strong features of the resultant meta-language.
Recent accumulation variability in northwest Greenland from ground-penetrating radar and shallow cores along the Greenland Inland Traverse
Authors: Hawley Robert L. , Courville Zoe R. , Kehrl Laura M. , Lutz Eric R. , Osterberg Erich C. , Overly Thomas B. , Wong Gifford J.
Published: April 2014

Accumulation is a key parameter governing the mass balance of the Greenland ice sheet. Several studies have documented the spatial variability of accumulation over wide spatial scales, primarily using point data, remote sensing or modeling. Direct measurements of spatially extensive, detailed profiles of accumulation in Greenland, however, are rare. We used 400 MHz ground-penetrating radar along the 1009 km route of the Greenland Inland Traverse from Thule to Summit during April and May of 2011, to image continuous internal reflecting horizons. We dated these horizons using ice-core chemistry at each end of the traverse. Using density profiles measured along the traverse, we determined the depth to the horizons and the corresponding water-equivalent accumulation rates. The measured accumulation rates vary from ~0.1 m w.e. a–1 in the interior to ~0.7 m w.e. a–1 near the coast, and correspond broadly with existing published model results, though there are some excursions. Comparison of our recent accumulation rates with those collected along a similar route in the 1950s shows a ~10% increase in accumulation rates over the past 52 years along most of the traverse route. This implies that the increased water vapor capacity of warmer air is increasing accumulation in the interior of Greenland.
Staging Beckett: Constructing Histories of Performance
Authors: McMullan Anna , McTighe Trish , Pattie David , Tucker David
Published: April 2014

This multi-authored essay presents some selected initial findings from the AHRC Staging Beckett research project led by the Universities of Reading and Chester with the Victoria and Albert Museum, London. For example, how did changes in economic and cultural climates, such as funding structures, impact on productions of Beckett's plays in the UK and Ireland from the 1950s to the first decade of the twenty-first century? The paper will raise historiographical questions raised by the attempts to map or construct performance histories of Beckett's theatre in the UK and Ireland.
Beckett in New Musical Composition
Authors: Laws Catherine
Published: April 2014

The musical legacy of Samuel Beckett is evident in the large number of compositions inspired by his work. Moreover, Beckett's influence has endured beyond the associations with musical modernism from the 1960s onwards. How, then, do the approaches of younger composers relate to and differ from those working during Beckett's lifetime, and what are the implications for performance? This article explores these questions in relation to two recent compositions: Damien Harron's what is the word (2011) for flute, percussion, piano and electronics, and Martin Iddon's head down among the stems and bells (2009) for amplified prepared piano.
The Samuel Beckett Laboratory 2013
Authors: Heron Jonathan , Johnson Nicholas , Dinçel Burç Îdem , Quinn Gavin , Scaife Sarah Jane , Josephine Tyrrell Áine
Published: April 2014

This multi-authored dossier is the first publication to emerge from the Samuel Beckett Laboratory, a new space for fundamental research into Beckett's work in performance established at the Samuel Beckett Summer School at Trinity College Dublin. In 2013 the focal point of the Laboratory's work was the Shakespeare/Bare Room manuscript fragment. The dossier uses the frame of practice-as-research to explore methodology, documentation from facilitators and guest artists, and qualitative data gathered from students and participants. This signals a new approach to work in Beckett Studies and an evolution of methods in Theatre and Performance Studies.
Multi-Scalar Governance for Restoring the Brazilian Atlantic Forest: A Case Study on Small Landholdings in Protected Areas of Sustainable Development
Authors: Ball Alaine , Gouzerh Alice , Brancalion Pedro
Published: April 2014

Implementation of forest restoration projects requires cross-scale and hybrid forms of governance involving the state, the market, civil society, individuals, communities, and other actors. Using a case study from the Atlantic Forest Hotspot, we examine the governance of a large-scale forest restoration project implemented by an international non-governmental organization (NGO) on family farmer landholdings located within protected areas of sustainable development. In addition to forest restoration, the project aims to provide an economic benefit to participating farmers by including native species with market potential (fruits, timber) in restoration models and by contracting farmers in the planting phase. We employed qualitative methods such as structured interviews and participant observation to assess the effect of environmental policy and multi-scalar governance on implementation and acceptability of the project by farmers. We demonstrate that NGO and farmer expectations for the project were initially misaligned, hampering farmer participation. Furthermore, current policy complicated implementation and still poses barriers to project success, and projects must remain adaptable to changing legal landscapes. We recommend increased incorporation of social science methods in earlier stages of projects, as well as throughout the course of implementation, in order to better assess the needs and perspectives of participants, as well as to minimize trade-offs.
Association between Kawasaki Disease and Autism: A Population-Based Study in Taiwan
Authors: Kuo Ho-Chang , Wu Chung-Min , Chang Wei-Pin , Kuo Chun-Nan , Yeter Deniz , Lin Chun-Yi , Pai Jei-Tsung , Chi Ying-Chen , Lin Chia-Hsien , Wang Liang-Jen , Chang Wei-Chiao
Published: April 2014

Objective: The association between Kawasaki disease and autism has rarely been studied in Asian populations. By using a nationwide Taiwanese population-based claims database, we tested the hypothesis that Kawasaki disease may increase the risk of autism in Taiwan. Materials and Methods: Our study cohort consisted of patients who had received the diagnosis of Kawasaki disease (ICD-9-CM: 446.1) between 1997 and 2005 (N = 563). For a comparison cohort, five age- and gender-matched control patients for every patient in the study cohort were selected using random sampling (N = 2,815). All subjects were tracked for 5 years from the date of cohort entry to identify whether they had developed autism (ICD-9-CM code 299.0) or not. Cox proportional hazard regressions were then performed to evaluate 5-year autism-free survival rates. Results: The main finding of this study was that patients with Kawasaki disease seem to not be at increased risk of developing autism. Of the total patients, four patients developed autism during the 5-year follow-up period, among whom two were Kawasaki disease patients and two were in the comparison cohort. Further, the adjusted hazard ratios (AHR) (AHR: 4.81; 95% confidence interval: 0.68–34.35; P = 0.117) did not show any statistical significance between the Kawasaki disease group and the control group during the 5-year follow-up. Conclusion: Our study indicated that patients with Kawasaki disease are not at increased risk of autism.
Clinical and Individual Factors Associated with Smoking Quit Attempts among Adults with COPD: Do Factors Vary with Regard to Race?
Authors: Mowls Dana , Cheruvu Vinay , Zullo Melissa
Published: April 2014

Only half of adults with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) report a smoking quit attempt in the past year. Adults with COPD have frequent encounters with the healthcare system that are opportunities for health behavior interventions that support quit attempts. The purpose of this research was to examine individual- and clinical-level factors associated with smoking quit attempts in adults with COPD. Cross-sectional data were from the 2011 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System. Race-stratified, weighted logistic regression examined factors associated with quit attempt among current smokers with COPD. Overall, quit attempt was reported by 65% (95% confidence interval (CI): 61.9, 67.5) of adults and was more likely among blacks than whites (p < 0.0001). Among whites with COPD quit attempt was associated with: Female gender (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 1.3; CI: 1.0, 1.7), exercise (AOR = 2.0; CI: 1.5, 2.5), and medications for COPD (AOR = 1.6; CI: 1.3, 2.2). Among black adults with COPD quit attempt was associated with: Having a partner (AOR = 4.5; CI: 1.3, 15.0), exercise (AOR = 3.7; CI: 1.6, 8.7), spirometry (AOR = 9.5; CI: 3.2, 28.7), and having a personal doctor (AOR = 6.4; CI: 1.8, 22.5). Individual and clinical-factors associated with quit attempt varied by race. These findings suggest an impact of the healthcare system that supports quit attempts in blacks but not whites with COPD.
Exposures of 129 Preschool Children to Organochlorines, Organophosphates, Pyrethroids, and Acid Herbicides at Their Homes and Daycares in North Carolina
Authors: Morgan Marsha , Wilson Nancy , Chuang Jane
Published: April 2014

Few data exist on the concurrent exposures of young children to past-use and current-use pesticides in their everyday environments. In this further analysis of study data, we quantified the potential exposures and intake doses of 129 preschool children, ages 20 to 66 months, to 16 pesticides (eight organochlorines, two organophosphates, three pyrethroids, and three acid herbicides). Environmental samples (soil, dust, outdoor air, and indoor air) and personal samples (hand wipes, solid food, and liquid food) were collected at 129 homes and 13 daycare centers in six counties in North Carolina between 2000 and 2001. α-Chlordane, γ-chlordane, heptachlor, chlorpyrifos, diazinon, cis-permethrin, trans-permethrin, and 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) were detected ≥50% in two or more media in both settings. Of these pesticides, the children’s estimated median potential intake doses through dietary ingestion, nondietary ingestion, and inhalation routes were the highest for 2,4-D and cis/trans-permethrin (both 4.84 ng/kg/day), cis/trans-permethrin (2.39 ng/kg/day), and heptachlor (1.71 ng/kg/day), respectively. The children’s estimated median potential aggregate intake doses by all three routes were quantifiable for chlorpyrifos (4.6 ng/kg/day), cis/trans-permethrin (12.5 ng/kg/day), and 2,4-D (4.9 ng/kg/day). In conclusion, these children were likely exposed daily to several pesticides from several sources and routes at their homes and daycares.
Flood Disaster Risk Assessment of Rural Housings — A Case Study of Kouqian Town in China
Authors: Zhang Qi , Zhang Jiquan , Jiang Liupeng , Liu Xingpeng , Tong Zhijun
Published: April 2014

Floods are a devastating kind of natural disaster. About half of the population in China lives in rural areas. Therefore, it is necessary to assess the flood disaster risk of rural housings. The results are valuable for guiding the rescue and relief goods layout. In this study, we take the severe flood disaster that happened at Kouqian Town in Jilin, China in 2010 as an example to build an risk assessment system for flood disaster on rural housings. Based on the theory of natural disaster risk formation and “3S” technology (remote sensing, geography information systems and global positioning systems), taking the rural housing as the bearing body, we assess the flood disaster risk from three aspects: hazard, exposure and vulnerability. The hazard presented as the flood submerging range and depth. The exposure presented as the values of the housing and the property in it. The vulnerability presented as the relationship between the losses caused by flood and flood depth. We validate the model by the field survey after the flood disaster. The risk assessment results highly coincide with the field survey losses. This model can be used to assess the risk of other flood events in this area.
Potential Anti-HPV and Related Cancer Agents from Marine Resources: An Overview
Authors: Wang Shi-Xin , Zhang Xiao-Shuang , Guan Hua-Shi , Wang Wei
Published: April 2014

Recently, the studies on the prevention and treatment of human papillomavirus (HPV) which is closely related to the cervical cancer and other genital diseases are attracting more and more attention all over the world. Marine-derived polysaccharides and other bioactive compounds have been shown to possess a variety of anti-HPV and related cancer activities. This paper will review the recent progress in research on the potential anti-HPV and related cancer agents from marine resources. In particular, it will provide an update on the anti-HPV actions of heparinoid polysaccharides and bioactive compounds present in marine organisms, as well as the therapeutic vaccines relating to marine organisms. In addition, the possible mechanisms of anti-HPV actions of marine bioactive compounds and their potential for therapeutic application will also be summarized in detail.
Placotylene A, an Inhibitor of the Receptor Activator of Nuclear Factor-κB Ligand-Induced Osteoclast Differentiation, from a Korean Sponge Placospongia sp.
Authors: Kim Hiyoung , Kim Kwang-Jin , Yeon Jeong-Tae , Kim Seong , Won Dong , Choi Hyukjae , Nam Sang-Jip , Son Young-Jin , Kang Heonjoong
Published: April 2014

A new inhibitor, placotylene A (1), of the receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL)-induced osteoclast differentiation, and a regioisomer of placotylene A, placotylene B (2), were isolated from a Korean marine sponge Placospongia sp. The chemical structures of placotylenes A and B were elucidated on the basis of 1D and 2D NMR, along with MS spectral analysis and revealed as an iodinated polyacetylene class of natural products. Placotylene A (1) displayed inhibitory activity against RANKL-induced osteoclast differentiation at 10 μM while placotylene B (2) did not show any significant activity up to 100 μM, respectively.
Phallusiasterols A and B: Two New Sulfated Sterols from the Mediterranean Tunicate Phallusia fumigata and Their Effects as Modulators of the PXR Receptor
Authors: Imperatore Concetta , D'Aniello Filomena , Aiello Anna , Fiorucci Stefano , D'Amore Claudio , Sepe Valentina , Menna Marialuisa
Published: April 2014

Purification of the apolar extracts of the marine ascidian Phallusia fumigata, afforded two new sulfated sterols, phallusiasterols A (1) and B (2). The structures of the new compounds have been elucidated using mass spectrometry and NMR experiments. The effects of phallusiasterols A and B as modulators of pregnane-X-receptor (PXR) have been investigated. These studies revealed that phallusiasterol A induces PXR transactivation in HepG2 cells and stimulates the expression of the PXR target genes CYP3A4 and MDR1 in the same cell line. Molecular docking calculations suggested the theoretical binding mode of phallusiasterol A with hPXR and revealed that phallusiasterol A fitted well in the LBD of PXR.
Development of Multi-Functional Chelators Based on Sarcophagine Cages
Authors: Liu Shuanglong , Li Zibo , Conti Peter
Published: April 2014

A new class of multifunctionalized sarcophagine derivatives was synthesized for 64Cu chelation. The platform developed in this study could have broad applications in 64Cu-radiopharmaceuticals.
Work Function Engineering of Graphene
Authors: Garg Rajni , Dutta Naba , Choudhury Namita
Published: April 2014

Graphene is a two dimensional one atom thick allotrope of carbon that displays unusual crystal structure, electronic characteristics, charge transport behavior, optical clarity, physical & mechanical properties, thermal conductivity and much more that is yet to be discovered. Consequently, it has generated unprecedented excitement in the scientific community; and is of great interest to wide ranging industries including semiconductor, optoelectronics and printed electronics. Graphene is considered to be a next-generation conducting material with a remarkable band-gap structure, and has the potential to replace traditional electrode materials in optoelectronic devices. It has also been identified as one of the most promising materials for post-silicon electronics. For many such applications, modulation of the electrical and optical properties, together with tuning the band gap and the resulting work function of zero band gap graphene are critical in achieving the desired properties and outcome. In understanding the importance, a number of strategies including various functionalization, doping and hybridization have recently been identified and explored to successfully alter the work function of graphene. In this review we primarily highlight the different ways of surface modification, which have been used to specifically modify the band gap of graphene and its work function. This article focuses on the most recent perspectives, current trends and gives some indication of future challenges and possibilities.
The Impact of Lipoproteins on Wound Healing: Topical HDL Therapy Corrects Delayed Wound Healing in Apolipoprotein E Deficient Mice
Authors: Gordts Stephanie , Muthuramu Ilayaraja , Amin Ruhul , Jacobs Frank , De Geest Bart
Published: April 2014

Chronic non-healing wounds lead to considerable morbidity and mortality. Pleiotropic effects of high density lipoproteins (HDL) may beneficially affect wound healing. The objectives of this murine study were: (1) to investigate the hypothesis that hypercholesterolemia induces impaired wound healing and (2) to study the effect of topical HDL administration in a model of delayed wound healing. A circular full thickness wound was created on the back of each mouse. A silicone splint was used to counteract wound contraction. Coverage of the wound by granulation tissue and by epithelium was quantified every 2 days. Re-epithelialization from day 0 till day 10 was unexpectedly increased by 21.3% (p < 0.05) in C57BL/6 low density lipoprotein (LDLr) deficient mice with severe hypercholesterolemia (489 ± 14 mg/dL) compared to C57BL/6 mice and this effect was entirely abrogated following cholesterol lowering adenoviral LDLr gene transfer. In contrast, re-epithelialization in hypercholesterolemic (434 ± 16 mg/dL) C57BL/6 apolipoprotein (apo) E−/− mice was 22.6% (p < 0.0001) lower than in C57BL/6 mice. Topical HDL gel administered every 2 days increased re-epithelialization by 25.7% (p < 0.01) in apo E−/− mice. In conclusion, topical HDL application is an innovative therapeutic strategy that corrects impaired wound healing in apo E−/− mice.
Combining Satellite Data and Models to Assess Vulnerability to Climate Change and Its Impact on Food Security in Morocco
Authors: Rochdane Saloua , Bounoua Lahouari , Zhang Ping , Imhoff Marc , Messouli Mohammed , Yacoubi-Khebiza Mohammed
Published: April 2014

This work analyzes satellite and socioeconomic data to explore the relationship between food and wood demand and supply, expressed in terms of net primary production (NPP), in Morocco. A vulnerability index is defined as the ratio of demand to supply as influenced by population, affluence, technology and climate indicators. The present situation (1995–2007), as well as projections of demand and supply, following the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, Scenarios A2 and B2, are analyzed for a 2025 horizon. We find that the food NPP demand increased by 34.5%, whereas the wood consumption NPP demand decreased by 19.3% between 1995 and 2007. The annual NPP required to support the population’s food and wood appropriation was 29.73 million tons of carbon (MTC) in 2007, while the landscape NPP production for the same year was 60.24 MTC; indicating that the population appropriates about 50% of the total NPP resources. Both scenarios show increases in demand and decreases in supply. Under A2, it would take more than 1.25 years for terrestrial ecosystems in Morocco to produce the NPP appropriated by populations in one year. This number is 0.70 years under B2. This already high vulnerability for food and wood products is likely to be exacerbated with climate changes and population increase.
Changes in Gene Expression in the Larval Gut of Ostrinia nubilalis in Response to Bacillus thuringiensis Cry1Ab Protoxin Ingestion
Authors: Yao Jianxiu , Buschman Lawrent , Lu Nanyan , Khajuria Chitvan , Zhu Kun
Published: April 2014

We developed a microarray based on 2895 unique transcripts assembled from 15,000 cDNA sequences from the European corn borer (Ostrinia nubilalis) larval gut. This microarray was used to monitor gene expression in early third-instar larvae of Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt)-susceptible O. nubilalis after 6 h feeding on diet, with or without the Bt Cry1Ab protoxin. We identified 174 transcripts, for which the expression was changed more than two-fold in the gut of the larvae fed Cry1Ab protoxin (p < 0.05), representing 80 down-regulated and 94 up-regulated transcripts. Among 174 differentially expressed transcripts, 13 transcripts putatively encode proteins that are potentially involved in Bt toxicity, and these transcripts include eight serine proteases, three aminopeptidases, one alkaline phosphatase, and one cadherin. The expressions of trypsin-like protease and three aminopeptidase transcripts were variable, but two potential Bt-binding proteins, alkaline phosphatase and cadherin were consistently up-regulated in larvae fed Cry1Ab protoxin. The significantly up and down-regulated transcripts may be involved in Cry1Ab toxicity by activation, degradation, toxin binding, and other related cellular responses. This study is a preliminary survey of Cry1Ab protoxin-induced transcriptional responses in O. nubilalis gut and our results are expected to help with further studies on Bt toxin-insect interactions at the molecular level.
Poxviruses in Bats … so What?
Authors: Baker Kate , Murcia Pablo
Published: April 2014

Poxviruses are important pathogens of man and numerous domestic and wild animal species. Cross species (including zoonotic) poxvirus infections can have drastic consequences for the recipient host. Bats are a diverse order of mammals known to carry lethal viral zoonoses such as Rabies, Hendra, Nipah, and SARS. Consequent targeted research is revealing bats to be infected with a rich diversity of novel viruses. Poxviruses were recently identified in bats and the settings in which they were found were dramatically different. Here, we review the natural history of poxviruses in bats and highlight the relationship of the viruses to each other and their context in the Poxviridae family. In addition to considering the zoonotic potential of these viruses, we reflect on the broader implications of these findings. Specifically, the potential to explore and exploit this newfound relationship to study coevolution and cross species transmission together with fundamental aspects of poxvirus host tropism as well as bat virology and immunology.
Preparation of poly(N-vinylpyrrolidone)-stabilized ZnO colloid nanoparticles
Authors: Gutul Tatyana , Rusu Emil , Condur Nadejda , Ursaki Veaceslav , Goncearenco Evgenii , Vlazan Paulina
Published: April 2014

We propose a method for the synthesis of a colloidal ZnO solution with poly(N-vinylpyrrolidone) (PVP) as stabilizer. Stable colloidal solutions with good luminescence properties are obtained by using PVP as stabilizer in the synthesis of ZnO nanoparticles by a sol–gel method assisted by ultrasound. Nanoparticles with sizes of 30–40 nm in a PVP matrix are produced as a solid product. The colloidal ZnO/PVP/methanol solution, apart from the most intense PL band at 356 nm coming from the PVP, exhibits a strong PL band at 376 nm (3.30 eV) which corresponds to the emission of the free exciton recombination in ZnO nanoparticles.
Freud et Jung – Freudiens et Jungiens
Authors: Falzeder Ernst
Published: April 2014

Cet article tente de jeter une nouvelle lumière sur la relation entre Freud et Jung. Il étudie d’abord la nature des différences fondamentales entre les deux théories. Ensuite, il soulève la question de quoi, et combien, chacun d’entre eux a pris de l’autre, aboutissant au fait que Freud s’est davantage laissé inspirer par Jung que le contraire. Puis l’effet stimulant de leurs conflits et de leur rupture sur le développement respectif de leurs théories est souligné. Enfin, quelque lumière est jetée sur les différences entre les développements respectifs des organisations freudienne et jungienne.
Fenichel (Vienne 1897 – Los Angeles 1946) : l'oncle secret des psychothérapies corporelles
Authors: Heller Michel
Published: April 2014

Cet article résume un certain nombre d’événements mal connus dans l’histoire de la psychanalyse. En effet, peu de gens connaissent l’énorme impact d’Otto Fenichel sur les découvertes de Wilhelm Reich et la naissance des psychothérapies corporelles. Cet aspect de l’œuvre de Fenichel semble avoir été gardé dans l’ombre par les psychanalystes et par les Reichiens. Les deux mouvements, pour des raisons différentes, semblent avoir honte d’admettre que Fenichel est l’« oncle secret » des psychothérapies corporelles. Pourtant, cette activité s’était exercée au grand jour dans l’Institut de Psychanalyse de Berlin et dans les institutions psychiatriques d’Oslo avant la Seconde Guerre Mondiale. Cet article résume les principaux événements qui ont marqué la collaboration entre Reich et Fenichel, et essaie de dégager quelques points clés de la réflexion de Fenichel sur une intervention en psychothérapie qui vise la dimension psychosomatique. Dans cet article, je me focalise sur la discussion qui se développa entre Fenichel et Reich, et laisse à d’autres le soin d’analyser l’ensemble de la contribution de Fenichel à la pensée psychodynamique d’aujourd’hui.
Le masochisme à l'œuvre dans l'écriture littéraire (Anaïs Nin) et dans la passion adolescente
Authors: Mazoyer Anne-Valérie , Roques Marjorie
Published: April 2014

La création et la passion féminines peuvent s’apparenter à des expériences subjectivantes et sublimatoires nous permettant d’interroger le lien entre masochisme et féminin. Anaïs Nin, tant dans sa vie que dans son œuvre, convoque un théâtre de figures masculines ayant des rôles différenciés, et censées répondre à des fonctions précises : l’amant (Miller), séducteur et créateur ; le mari (Hugh), apaisant et protecteur ; le psychanalyste dominateur (Allendy) ou sauveur (Rank) ; le père incestueux. Sa recherche masochique inépuisable d’excitations et de passions tumultueuses a certes favorisé l’écriture, mais a mis à mal ses capacités de sublimation. Après un détour par cette auteure scandaleuse et sulfureuse, nous proposons d’analyser la portée de la passion en clinique adolescente, à partir de cette question posée en entretien : comment vivre le manque imposé par l’absence de l’autre aimé ? Cette question nous permet d’envisager les enjeux de la passion amoureuse liés à l’écriture (y compris dans ses formes modernes de type SMS) comme constituant un passage essentiel en vue de l’élaboration du féminin à l’adolescence.