bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Response of Freshwater Bloom-Forming Planktonic Cyanobacteria to Global Warming and Nutrient Increase
Authors: Savadova Ksenija
Published: July 2014

Savadova K., 2014: Response of freshwater bloom-forming planktonic cyanobacteria to global warming and nutrient increase [Planktoninių melsvabakterių atsakas į globalinį atšilimą ir maistmedžiagių kiekio padidėjimą gėluose vandens telkiniuose ]. - Bot. Lith., 20(1): 57-63.

Human activities stimulate changes in aquatic environment, promoting temperature rise and eutrophication. Disturbance in aquatic ecosystems lead to alterations in plankton communities and food web structure. Cyanobacteria, which are able to regulate their buoyancy, are adapted to low-light, high temperatures, are capable to store phosphorus and fix nitrogen, produce toxins, which help to acquire competitive traits over other phytoplankton species. So, increasing temperature and loadings of nutrients in lakes stimulate successful proliferation of cyanobacteria and heavy bloom formation. Usually higher temperature (> 20ºC) and lower N:P mass ratio determine the dominance of cyanobacteria species in lakes and this is expected to increase in the future
Production of Fission Product 99Mo using High-Enriched Uranium Plates in Polish Nuclear Research Reactor MARIA: Technology and Neutronic Analysis
Authors: Jaroszewicz Janusz , Marcinkowska Zuzanna , Pytel Krzysztof
Published: July 2014

The main objective of 235U irradiation is to obtain the 99mTc isotope, which is widely used in the domain of medical diagnostics. The decisive factor determining its availability, despite its short lifetime, is a reaction of radioactive decay of 99Mo into 99mTc. One of the possible sources of molybdenum can be achieved in course of the 235U fission reaction. The paper presents activities and the calculation results obtained upon the feasibility study on irradiation of 235U targets for production of 99Mo in the MARIA research reactor. Neutronic calculations and analyses were performed to estimate the fission products activity for uranium plates irradiated in the reactor. Results of dummy targets irradiation as well as irradiation uranium plates have been presented. The new technology obtaining 99Mo is based on irradiation of high-enriched uranium plates in standard reactor fuel channel and calculation of the current fission power generation. Measurements of temperatures and the coolant flow in the molybdenum installation carried out in reactor SAREMA system give online information about the current fission power generated in uranium targets. The corrective factors were taken into account as the heat generation from gamma radiation from neighbouring fuel elements as well as heat exchange between channels and the reactor pool. The factors were determined by calibration measurements conducted with aluminium mock-up of uranium plates. Calculations of fuel channel by means of REBUS code with fine mesh structure and libraries calculated by means of WIMS-ANL code were performed.
Hybrid optomechanics for Quantum Technologies
Authors: Rogers B. , Lo Gullo N. , De Chiara G. , Palma G. M. , Paternostro M.
Published: July 2014

We review the physics of hybrid optomechanical systems consisting of a mechanical oscillator interacting with both a radiation mode and an additional matterlike system. We concentrate on the cases embodied by either a single or a multi-atom system (a Bose-Einstein condensate, in particular) and discuss a wide range of physical effects, from passive mechanical cooling to the set-up of multipartite entanglement, from optomechanical nonlocality to the achievement of non-classical states of a single mechanical mode. The reviewed material showcases the viability of hybridised cavity optomechanical systems as basic building blocks for quantum communication networks and quantum state-engineering devices, possibly empowered by the use of quantum and optimal control techniques. The results that we discuss are instrumental to the promotion of hybrid optomechanical devices as promising experimental platforms for the study of nonclassicality at the genuine mesoscopic level.
Teacher Professional Development as a Scientific Problem in Comparative Pedagogics
Authors: Avshenyuk Natalia , Kostina Lyudmyla
Published: July 2014

Cogent argument for better understanding of the take-up of teacher professional development through understanding the definition itself has been presented. The main constituents of the definition with reference to different sources of information in psychology, philosophy and pedagogics have been analyzed. To make the research more logical, the definitions “personality development”, “professional development” and “teacher professional development” have been studied in consecutive order. The literature review, which is based on Ukrainian and foreign documents observation, shows different approaches to defining the notion studied: a process-based approach and a system-based approach, as well as their conditional character and appropriateness. In authors’ view, teacher education is a key issue in basic development sectors of any country of the world. Teachers’ professional activities must not focus on individual content only but bear in mind students’ intellectual, spiritual, physical, moral, social and cultural well being. Teacher professional development is a powerful and effective premise for sustained improvement of student outcomes. On the whole, teacher professional development can be defined as a long-term complex process of qualitative changes in teaching aimed at teacher performance improvement in the classroom and ensuring students’ success. According to the study, this process can be compulsory or so called optional. The effectiveness of professional development is structured: leadership, knowledge, available recourses, high level of collaboration, appropriate evaluation and sustainability.
Pedagogical Analysis of Higher Educational Standard of Bachelor’s Professional Education with Specialization in Taxes and Taxation at the Universities of Russian Federation
Authors: Rudenko Natalia
Published: July 2014

The problem of tax officials’ training in Russian Federation is considered to be the main topic of the article. In the context of integration processes, the study of European countries’ experience, in particular, of Russian Federation, as well as the implementation of progressive ideas of tax service specialists’ professional training, have been actualized. Pedagogical analysis of the higher educational standard of bachelor’s professional education with specialization in taxes and taxation has been carried out. The branches of future tax service professional activity have been defined. The structure and content of the bachelor’s basic educational program of training in specialty 080100.62.04 “Economy” (profile “Taxes and taxation”) have been defined as well, inter alia, the meaning and features of the variable part of the program. The analysis of the students’ practical training and types of the final state assessment of the graduates has been performed. Types of the professional activity have been analyzed and main tasks of a tax service specialist’s training have been defined as well. General cultural competences have been described. According to the types of the professional activity, professional competences important for the future tax service officials have been defined. The relevance of using Russian Federation’s experience, in particular, the educational standard of higher professional education of bachelor’s degree in profile “Taxes and taxation” with the updated content and forms of Ukrainian state tax service professional training activity, has been proved.
Moral Education Technologies in Pedagogical Theory and Practice of Poland and Ukraine
Authors: Yankovych Iryna
Published: July 2014

The comparative analysis of theoretical bases and the practice of moral education technologies implementation in Polish and Ukrainian pedagogy has been made. There has been stated that moral education technology in Ukrainian pedagogical science can be interpreted as a moral education system, the constituent parts of which are the following: aims, the content of the technology, procedural components (forms, methods and means of interaction between a teacher and pupils), diagnostic tools, and the result that meets the defined aim. Moral education technology can also be interpreted as modern means of moral education; as a project (model) of moral education process; as a branch of scientific knowledge; as any educational innovation. Moral education technology is interpreted as a strategy of moral education in Polish educational science. Three strategies of moral education - forming, searching and open - have been described. There have been determined that in Polish and Ukrainian pedagogical sciences the technology of moral education is considered to be a wider concept than the method and methodology. The technology of moral education is interpreted as a branch of scientific knowledge about the process, bases, techniques, methods and means of moral education, as well as conditions of its effectiveness, which ensure educational skills. Criteria of moral education technologies have been determined. The importance of educational diagnostics to the development of moral education technologies has been shown. The causes of the weak development of moral education technologies such as the lack of the accordance to the diagnostics criterion, an intuitive approach to solving moral education problems, complication of their solution have been cleared up. Prospects of using positive ideas in modern educational and moral environment have been revealed.
Psychological Factors of Rehabilitation of Athletes After Knee Injury
Authors: Masten Robert , Tušak Matej , Stražar Klemen , Zupanc Oskar , Drobnič Matej , Marinšek Maksimiljana , Kandare Manca
Published: July 2014

Objective. The majority of the literature regarding sports injuries is concentrated on specific characteristics related to sports injuries and injuries at sport activities at all. We strove to establish whether the success of the rehabilitation process can be predicted based on numerous psychosocial variables. Methods. Our sample comprised of 68 competing athletes who underwent an operative knee surgery. The rehabilitation process for athletes lasted one or 6 months; all athletes obtained serious injuries by the standards of National Athletic Injury Reporting System (1). The following variables were measured: coping with pain (SIP 15), rehabilitation behaviours (SIRBS), motivation for rehabilitation, anxiety (STAI X1) and social support. A questionnaire that measures the functioning of the knee (2000 IKDC) was taken as an indicator of the rehabilitation success. Participants were tested both prior to and following the process of rehabilitation. Results. Our results showed that the success of psychological rehabilitation could be predicted from changes in certain psychosocial variables (a decrease in anxiety and an increase in susceptibility, self-efficacy and catastrophizing). After the rehabilitation, only 10 % of athletes were able to reach the criteria of a successful physical and psychological rehabilitation. Conclusions. We can conclude that since selected psychological variables were found to have a high loading on psychological rehabilitation there it makes sense to control these variables.
Analysis of Injuries Among Children in Kindergartens During Physical Activities
Authors: Videmšek Mateja , Štihec Jože , Karpljuk Damir , Meško Maja , Gregorc Jera , Videmšek Naja
Published: July 2014

Objective. The aim of this study was to analyze the opinions of educators about the occurrence of injuries in children of different ages during organized and non-organized physical activities in kindergarten. Methods. Our sample included 322 teachers from 53 kindergartens in Slovenia. We calculated the frequencies and performed a chi-square test. Results. Most of the children have organized physical activity in kindergarten 1 to 2 times per week; for children in the first age group, it usually lasts for 20 minutes or less; for children in the second age group, it lasts for 20 to 30 minutes. Most physical activities take place in the playroom, where the majority of injuries also occur. Injuries most frequently occur when running and jumping and less frequently during other physical activities. During free play, children are often injured in the outer court between 9 and 12 a.m. Boys are more often injured than girls. Educators indicate unforeseen situations as the most common cause of injury. The most common injuries are bumps on the head, especially in younger children, who stay at home for a few days as a result of these injuries. Parents of younger children are not as satisfied with the actions of educators when injuries occur as parents of older preschool children. Educators rehabilitate the children’s injuries themselves and inform parents about it. Only one third of the educators make a record of injuries, and half of them only when a serious injury has occurred. Conclusions. The analysis results showed statistically significant differences between children of different ages according to the cause of injury, time of injury, the place where the child was injured during organized physical activity, type of activity at the time of injury, injured part of the body, and parental satisfaction with the action of the educator. Based on the results, we proposed some actions to reduce injuries in preschool children in kindergarten.
Alcohol Drinking Among Students of the University of Ljubljana
Authors: Hafner Marja Biščak , Kolšek Marko , Rebek Kaja
Published: July 2014

Background. Hazardous and harmful alcohol drinking is an important health, social and economic issue in Slovenia, also amongst adolescents and young adults. While drinking in Slovenia has been well researched amongst elementary and high school students, there exists a lack of research on drinking amongst young adults attending university. Methods. Cross sectional study. First year students of the University of Ljubljana attending the mandatory preventive health check between October 2009 and May 2010 filled out a non-anonymous lifestyle questionnaire. AUDIT-C screening questionnaire on alcohol use and questions on smoking and illicit drug use were also included. Multivariate and multilevel methods were used to analyse the data. Results. 7221 students filled out the questionnaire, of those 38.5 % male and 61.5 % female. 87.3 % of students have drunk alcohol at some point in the last year. Amongst the students, 23.1 % were hazardous or harmful drinkers. 61.4 % of students have been drunk at least once in the last year. 11.8 % of the students were abstainers. Male students, smokers and students with drug experience have higher odds of being harmful or hazardous drinkers. Student level variables account for most of the variability in harmful and hazardous drinking; only 2 % of the variability was due to differences across universities. Conclusions. Students of the University of Ljubljana drank alcohol in large quantities. There was a marked link between hazardous drinking, smoking and drug use. Results of this study show the need for the formation of suitable preventive measures that would change drinking behaviour amongst the student population.
Expression of Surface Markers on the Blood Cells during the Delayed Asthmatic Response to Allergen Challenge
Authors: Pelikan Zdenek
Published: July 2014

Patients with bronchial asthma develop various types of asthmatic response to bronchial challenge with allergen, such as immediate/early asthmatic response (IAR), late asthmatic response (LAR) or delayed asthmatic response (DYAR), because of different immunologic mechanisms. The DYAR, occurring between 24 and 56 hours after the bronchial allergen challenge (p < 0.01), differs from IAR and LAR in clinical as well as immunologic features. This study investigates the expression of CD molecules (markers) on the surface of particular cell populations in the peripheral blood and their changes during the DYAR. In 17 patients developing the DYAR (p < 0.01), the bronchial challenge with allergen was repeated 2–6 weeks later. The repeated DYAR (p < 0.001) was combined with recording of CD molecule expression on various types of blood cells by means of flow cytometry up to 72 hours after the challenge. The results were expressed in percent of the mean relative fluorescence intensity. The DYAR was accompanied by (a) increased expression of CD11b, CD11b/18, CD16, CD32, CD35, CD62E, CD62L, CD64, and CD66b on neutrophils; CD203C on basophils; CD25and CD62L on eosinophils; CD14, CD16, CD64, and CD86 on monocytes; CD3, CD4, CD8, CD11a, CD18, and CD69 on lymphocytes; CD16, CD56, CD57, and CD94 on natural killer (NK) cells; and CD31, CD41, CD61, CD62P, and CD63 on thrombocytes and (b) decreased expression of CD18 and CD62L on eosinophils, CD15 on neutrophils, and CD40 on lymphocytes. These results suggest involvement of cell-mediated hypersensitivity mechanism, on participation of Th1- lymphocytes, neutrophils, monocytes, NK cells, and thrombocytes in the DYAR.
Emotional Intelligence at workplace in hospitals: Is it time to rejuvenate?
Authors: Shrestha Babu Raja
Published: July 2014

Not available.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jkmc.v2i2.10621Journal of Kathmandu Medical College, Vol. 2, No. 2, Issue 4, Apr.-Jun., 2013, Page 43-44
Misoprostol alone is effective for mid-trimester abortion
Authors: Saha Rachana , Karki Chanda
Published: July 2014

Background: The use of prostaglandins has substantially reduced the risk related with mid- trimester abortions. Misoprostol is available in many countries worldwide and is advantageous from the rest of prostaglandin as it is inexpensive, thermo and light stable. It is easy to use and is cheap. It can be used by different routes. Misoprostol has route dependent pharmaco-kinetic profile with best absorption following vaginal administration. Objective: To find efficacy and safety of intra-vaginal Misoprostol for mid- trimester abortion. Methods: A hospital based prospective study was carried out at Kathmandu Medical College Teaching Hospital from 1st Jan 2009 to 31st Dec 2010. A total of 50 cases of mid- trimester termination of pregnancy were analyzed in that period using intra-vaginal Misoprostol 400 microgram every 12 hours till a maximum of 48 hours. Results: The most common indication for undergoing mid trimester abortion was missed abortion (56%) followed by congenital abnormalities (22%). Most of the women were married (98%). The mean age of the women was 26.21± 5.8 years (Mean± SD). The mean gravidity was 2.63 ±1.76. Mean gestational was 19.60±3.937 weeks. The success was defined if Misoprostol was able to induce abortion. Complete abortion was defined if fetus and placenta was expelled completely and was not resorted further to either medical or surgical means. The success rate was 96%. The complete abortion rate was 86%. The mean induction abortion interval was 13.067±6.21 hours. Mean dose of misoprostol was 616.667±285.34 microgram. The most common side effect was fever with chills and rigor. Conclusion: Intra-vaginal misoprostol is safe, effective, cheap and easily available method for second trimester termination of pregnancy.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jkmc.v2i2.10627Journal of Kathmandu Medical College, Vol. 2, No. 2, Issue 4, Apr.-Jun., 2013, page: 59-62
factors related to utilization of antenatal care in Nepal: A generalized linear approach
Authors: Shrestha Gauri
Published: July 2014

Background: Antenatal care provides an entry point for pregnant women to the health care system. Proper utilization of available health services essential for successful implementation of health programmes. Objectives: This study investigates factors associated with the use of maternal health services in terms of number of antenatal care visits. Methods: For analyzing the use of antenatal care health services in Nepal, data was extracted from individual recodes of a data file of Nepal Demographic Health Survey 2006. The unit of analysis for this study was Ever Married Woman (who had at least one live birth in the five years preceding the survey). The sample of study consisted of 4182 Ever Married Woman. The response variable has numbers as its possible outcome therefore generalized Poisson regression model was selected for establishing linkage between number of antenatal care visits and several explanatory variables. Results: The result of this study shows that women with low education level, those residing in rural areas and those with low socio-economic status are less likely to attend antenatal care visits. Conclusion: This study confirms that antenatal care visit is indeed an effective entry point for delivery care. Programmes directed at improving and increasing the accessibility of antenatal care are important to improve maternal health, especially in developing countries like Nepal.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jkmc.v2i2.10629Journal of Kathmandu Medical College, Vol. 2, No. 2, Issue 4, Apr.-Jun., 2013, Page: 69-74
Look-alike and sound-alike medicines: let us all be aware
Authors: Dixit Sanjaya Mani
Published: July 2014

Background: ALMEX and ALMOX; ASOM and AZOM; TRIAD, TRIAD P and TRIAD PF; folic acid and folinic acid; Vincristine and Vinblastine. Such look-alike and sound-alike medicines because of the similarity in their names create confusion while dispensing and administration/consumption of medicine. This may eventually cause varied degree of harm to the patient resulting from inadvertent consumption of an unintended drug. Objective: This study was conducted to analyze and list out common confusing drug pairs in the Nepalese market aiming to increase awareness of such drug pairs among health care professionals.  Methods: Department of Drug Administration list of registered drugs, Nepal Drug Review, Monthly Index of Medical Specialties and findings from drug survey in the market were used as sources of the drugs analyzed in this study. Error prone medication pairs that cause confusion while prescribing, dispensing and administration/consumption were sorted out manually. Results: Such drug-pairs were regrouped into different categories in a manner that they depict the clinical significance of the type of error. Also real life experiences of medication errors and near misses due to error prone drug pairs were collected from the doctors and the dispensers. Conclusion: Several brand names are nearly identical; look alike sound alike drug pairs pose as an imminent danger to medical practice. This problem can only be minimized by increasing awareness of the presence of such confusing drug pairs among the healthcare professionals and increasing the feeling of shared responsibility by all the core members of the health care team.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jkmc.v2i2.10630Journal of Kathmandu Medical College, Vol. 2, No. 2, Issue 4, Apr.-Jun., 2013, page: 75-83
Knowledge and practice of nursing personnnel regarding the care of neonates under phototherapy at Paropakar Shree Panch Indra Rajyalaxmi Devi Prasuti Griha, Thapathali, Kathmandu
Authors: Shrestha Santoshi
Published: July 2014

Background: High neonatal mortality is a reflection of very poor neonatal care. Hence a specialist should be able to take up leadership role in neonatal care to prevent high mortality and morbidity rate. The study was carried out to determine the knowledge and practice of the nursing personnel regarding the care of neonates with phototherapy. Objectives: To assess the knowledge and skills/practice of nurses regarding the care of neonates with phototherapy. Methods: Descriptive and exploratory research design was adopted for the study from 15th to 30th April, 2007 for two weeks at Paropakar Shree Panch Indra Rajyalaxmi Devi Prasuti Griha, Thapathali, Kathmandu. A semistructured questionnaire was designed to collect the data from 50 respondents working in different wards and they were selected by using Purposive sampling technique. The data collected were analysed and interpreted based on descriptive and inferential statistics. The level of knowledge score was converted into percentage and overall adequacy of knowledge was graded according to the following criteria:- If score > 75% highly knowledgeable If score 50 % to 75% moderate knowledge If score <50% inadequate knowledge1. Results: The findings revealed that the majority of the respondents 28 (56%) were highly knowledgeable (the knowledge level of the respondents more than 75 %) and 22 (44%) respondents were with average knowledge (more than 50% and less than75%). No respondents were below 50% level (below 50%). Conclusion: The study attempts to determine the knowledge and practice of nursing staffs regarding the care of neonates with phototherapy. According to the data and information of the respondents the nursing personnel should be provided with in-service education training in relation to care of neonates with phototherapy. This study will be helpful for providing information about existing knowledge and practices of nursing personnel regarding phototherapy. It will help to provide knowledge about the strength and weakness of the services provided by the hospital regarding phototherapy for future researcher. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jkmc.v2i2.10631  Journal of Kathmandu Medical College, Vol. 2, No. 2, Issue 4, Apr.-Jun., 2013, page: 84-88
Management of giant ovarian teratoma
Authors: Pradhan Pramila , Sherpa Kunsang , Joshi Anshumala , Pathak Sabita , Thapa Meeta , Sharma Basanta
Published: July 2014

The management of ovarian teratoma in normal condition is well established but in rare giant tumour (diameter over 15 cm) management approaches such as laparoscopy or laparotomy are controversial and may be therapeutically challenging for surgeons. Laparotomic resection is the preferred method for the en-block mass removal, adequate abdominal cavity irrigation, and avoidance of accidental mass rupture during management of giant ovarian teratoma. Here we discuss a case of a 43 year old multiparous lady suffering from a huge ovarian tumour of size 40 cm, admitted in Nepal Medical College Teaching Hospital on 15th May 2013. This patient underwent laparotomy on 21st May 2013 and left sided huge multiloculated ovarian cystic teratoma was removed en-bloc with no complications. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jkmc.v2i2.10632Journal of Kathmandu Medical College, Vol. 2, No. 2, Issue 4, Apr.-Jun., 2013, page: 89-93
Seizure, tetanic spasm and primary hypoparathyroidism
Authors: Dhungana Arun , Singh J N , Singh A. R. , Sapkota S. , Pokharel Baburam
Published: July 2014

Primary hypoparathyroidism is not a common disease, and it is not a common cause of seizures. Here we present a 21-year-old female with hypoparathyroidism who presented with tetanic spasm and seizure. Her parathyroid hormone level was low, Calcium level was low and Phosphorus was increased. Electroencephalogram showed sharp spike and Computed Tomography scan showed multiple symmetrical calcification in the basal ganglia, thalamus, cerebellum, cerebral hemisphere and periventricular region. With these features, our provisional diagnosis was Fahrs syndrome. Patient was treated with calcium gluconate and anticonvulsant. Patient improved and was discharged on medication. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jkmc.v2i2.10633Journal of Kathmandu Medical College, Vol. 2, No. 2, Issue 4, Apr.-Jun., 2013, Page: 94-96
Economic Dispatch Using Modified Bat Algorithm
Authors: Latif Aadil , Palensky Peter
Published: July 2014

Economic dispatch is an important non-linear optimization task in power systems. In this process, the total power demand is distributed amongst the generating units such that each unit satisfies its generation limit constraints and the cost of power production is minimized. This paper presents an over view of three optimization algorithms namely real coded genetic algorithm, particle swarm optimization and a relatively new optimization technique called bat algorithm. This study will further propose modifications to the original bat. Simulations are carried out for two test cases. First is a six-generator power system with a simplified convex objective function. The second test case is a five-generator system with a non-convex objective function. Finally the results of the modified algorithm are compared with the results of genetic algorithm, particle swarm and the original bat algorithm. The results demonstrate the improvement in the Bat Algorithm.
Assessing Independent Variables Used in Econometric Modeling Forest Land Use or Land Cover Change: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Jeuck James , Cubbage Frederick , Abt Robert , Bardon Robert , McCarter James , Coulston John , Renkow Mitch
Published: July 2014

We conducted a meta-analysis on 64 econometric models from 47 studies predicting forestland conversion to agriculture (F2A), forestland to development (F2D), forestland to non-forested (F2NF) and undeveloped (including forestland) to developed (U2D) land. Over 250 independent econometric variables were identified from 21 F2A models, 21 F2D models, 12 F2NF models, and 10 U2D models. These variables were organized into a hierarchy of 119 independent variable groups, 15 categories, and 4 econometric drivers suitable for conducting simple vote count statistics. Vote counts were summarized at the independent variable group level and formed into ratios estimating the predictive success of each variable group. Two ratios estimates were developed based on (1) proportion of times the independent variables had statistical significance and (2) proportion of times independent variables met the original study authors’ expectations. In F2D models, we confirmed the success of popular independent variables such as population, income, and urban proximity estimates but found timber rents and site productivity variables less successful. In F2A models, we confirmed success of popular explanatory variables such as forest and agricultural rents and costs, governmental programs, and site quality, but we found population, income, and urban proximity estimates less successful. In U2D models, successful independent variables found were urban rents and costs, zoning issues concerning forestland loss, site quality, urban proximity, population, and income. In F2NF models, we found poor success using timber rents but high success using agricultural rents, site quality, population, and income. Success ratios and discussion of new or less popular, but promising, variables was also included. This meta-analysis provided insight into the general success of econometric independent variables for future forest-use or -cover change research.
Comments on Bruun, D.M. et al. Community-Based Recreational Football: A Novel Approach to Promote Physical Activity and Quality of Life in Prostate Cancer Survivors. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2014, 11, 5557–5585—Time to Raise Our Game
Authors: Parnell Daniel , Pringle Andy , McKenna Jim , Zwolinsky Stephen
Published: July 2014

Bruun and colleagues [1] provide a timely and thorough insight into the potential health opportunities on offer via the structural organisation of football associations, football clubs and the global grip of the beautiful game. Their extensive evaluation framework represents an important clarion call for those concerned with football-led health improvement. At the same time, it is wise to consider how this can be made realistic and relevant to those who may regard the football-led ‘concept’ as too alternative or even inappropriate, in the contemporary socio-political and economic context. [...]
A Cluster Analysis of Constant Ambient Air Monitoring Data from the Kanto Region of Japan
Authors: Iizuka Atsushi , Shirato Shintaro , Mizukoshi Atsushi , Noguchi Miyuki , Yamasaki Akihiro , Yanagisawa Yukio
Published: July 2014

This study demonstrates an application of cluster analysis to constant ambient air monitoring data of four pollutants in the Kanto region: NOx, photochemical oxidant (Ox), suspended particulate matter, and non-methane hydrocarbons. Constant ambient air monitoring can provide important information about the surrounding atmospheric pollution. However, at the same time, ambient air monitoring can place a significant financial burden on some autonomous communities. Thus, it has been necessary to reduce both the number of monitoring stations and the number of chemicals monitored. To achieve this, it is necessary to identify those monitoring stations and pollutants that are least significant, while minimizing the loss of data quality and mitigating the effects on the determination of any spatial and temporal trends of the pollutants. Through employing cluster analysis, it was established that the ambient monitoring stations in the Kanto region could be clustered topologically for NOx and Ox into eight groups. From the results of this analysis, it was possible to identify the similarities in site characteristics and pollutant behaviors.
Toxicity Evaluation of Pig Slurry Using Luminescent Bacteria and Zebrafish
Authors: Chen Wenyan , Cai Qiang , Zhao Yuan , Zheng Guojuan , Liang Yuting
Published: July 2014

Biogas slurry has become a serious pollution problem and anaerobic digestion is widely applied to pig manure treatment for environmental protection and energy recovery. To evaluate environmental risk of the emission of biogas slurry, luminescent bacteria (Vibrio fischeri), larvae and embryos of zebrafish (Danio rerio) were used to detect the acute and development toxicity of digested and post-treated slurry. Then the ability of treatment process was evaluated. The results showed that digested slurry displayed strong toxicity to both zebrafish and luminescent bacteria, while the EC50 for luminescent bacteria and the LC50 for larvae were only 6.81% (v/v) and 1.95% (v/v) respectively, and embryonic development was inhibited at just 1% (v/v). Slurry still maintained a high level of toxicity although it had been treated by membrane bioreactor (MBR), while the LC50 of larvae was 75.23% (v/v) and there was a little effect on the development of embryos and V. fischeri; the results also revealed that the zebrafish larvae are more sensitive than embryos and luminescent bacteria to pig slurry. Finally, we also found the toxicity removal rate was higher than 90% after the treatment of MBR according to toxicity tests. In conclusion, further treatment should be used in pig slurry disposal or reused of final effluent.
The Involvement of miR-23a/APAF1 Regulation Axis in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Yong Fung , Wang Chee , Roslani April , Law Chee
Published: July 2014

Recent advances in microRNAome have made microRNAs (miRNAs) a compelling novel class of biomarker in cancer biology. In the present study, the role of miR-23a in the carcinogenesis of colorectal cancer (CRC) was investigated. Cell viability, apoptosis, and caspase 3/7 activation analyses were conducted to determine the potentiality of apoptosis resistance function of miR-23a in CRC. Luciferase assay was performed to verify a putative target site of miR-23a in the 3'-UTR of apoptosis protease activating factor 1 (APAF1) mRNA. The expression levels of miR-23a and APAF1 in CRC cell lines (SW480 and SW620) and clinical samples were assessed using reverse transcription-quantitative real-time PCR (RT-qPCR) and Western blot. We found that the inhibition of miR-23a in SW480 and SW620 cell lines resulted in significant reduction of cell viability and promotion of cell apoptosis. Moreover, miR-23a up-regulation was coupled with APAF1 down-regulation in CRC tissue samples. Taken together, miR-23a was identified to regulate apoptosis in CRC. Our study highlights the potential application of miR-23a/APAF1 regulation axis in miRNA-based therapy and prognostication.
TupA: A Tungstate Binding Protein in the Periplasm of Desulfovibrio alaskensis G20
Authors: Otrelo-Cardoso Ana , Nair Rashmi , Correia Márcia , Rivas Maria , Santos-Silva Teresa
Published: July 2014

The TupABC system is involved in the cellular uptake of tungsten and belongs to the ABC (ATP binding cassette)-type transporter systems. The TupA component is a periplasmic protein that binds tungstate anions, which are then transported through the membrane by the TupB component using ATP hydrolysis as the energy source (the reaction catalyzed by the ModC component). We report the heterologous expression, purification, determination of affinity binding constants and crystallization of the Desulfovibrio alaskensis G20 TupA. The tupA gene (locus tag Dde_0234) was cloned in the pET46 Enterokinase/Ligation-Independent Cloning (LIC) expression vector, and the construct was used to transform BL21 (DE3) cells. TupA expression and purification were optimized to a final yield of 10 mg of soluble pure protein per liter of culture medium. Native polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis was carried out showing that TupA binds both tungstate and molybdate ions and has no significant interaction with sulfate, phosphate or perchlorate. Quantitative analysis of metal binding by isothermal titration calorimetry was in agreement with these results, but in addition, shows that TupA has higher affinity to tungstate than molybdate. The protein crystallizes in the presence of 30% (w/v) polyethylene glycol 3350 using the hanging-drop vapor diffusion method. The crystals diffract X-rays beyond 1.4 Å resolution and belong to the P21 space group, with cell parameters a = 52.25 Å, b = 42.50 Å, c = 54.71 Å, β = 95.43°. A molecular replacement solution was found, and the structure is currently under refinement.
The Diagnosis and Treatment of Pseudoprogression, Radiation Necrosis and Brain Tumor Recurrence
Authors: Parvez Kashif , Parvez Aatif , Zadeh Gelareh
Published: July 2014

Radiation therapy is an important modality used in the treatment of patients with brain metastatic disease and malignant gliomas. Post-treatment surveillance often involves serial magnetic resonance imaging. A challenge faced by clinicians is in the diagnosis and management of a suspicious gadolinium-enhancing lesion found on imaging. The suspicious lesion may represent post-treatment radiation effects (PTRE) such as pseudoprogression, radiation necrosis or tumor recurrence. Significant progress has been made in diagnostic imaging modalities to assist in differentiating these entities. Surgical and medical interventions have also been developed to treat PTRE. In this review, we discuss the pathophysiology, clinical presentation, diagnostic imaging modalities and provide an algorithm for the management of pseudoprogression, radiation necrosis and tumor recurrence.
Study of Hard and Soft Countermeasures for Scour Protection of the Jacket-Type Offshore Wind Turbine Foundation
Authors: Chen Hsin-Hung , Yang Ray-Yeng , Hwung Hwung-Hweng
Published: July 2014

Physical model tests with the scale of 1:36 are carried out in the Near-Shore Wave Basin (NSWB) at Tainan Hydraulics Laboratory (THL) with the jacket-type offshore wind turbine foundation (jacket-type foundation) and the combination of hard or soft scour protection in the test area. Scouring around the jacket-type foundation exposed to wave and current was conducted in the NSWB with a mobile bed experiment. Two locations (a water depth of 12 m and 16 m) of the foundations are separately simulated in this study. Based on the analysis from the former NSWB experimental results, one traditional hard scour protection usually used in Taiwan with four layers around the foundation is proposed for the mitigation of scouring. From the experimental results, a four-layer scour protection is tested and found to be effective in preventing scouring around the jacket-type foundation. Besides the hard scour protection countermeasure, the scour protection effect of an integrated offshore wind turbine and cage net aquaculture facility as a soft countermeasure for scour protection of the jacket-type foundation is further evaluated in this study. Meanwhile, a detailed analysis for stakeholders’ opinions on the integration of offshore wind farms and coastal aquaculture is also considered to obtain important experience and knowledge; and furthermore, to understand the real demand for adjusting the feasibility of this soft countermeasure.
The Design and Analysis of a Novel Split-H-Shaped Metamaterial for Multi-Band Microwave Applications
Authors: Islam Sikder , Faruque Mohammad , Islam Mohammad
Published: July 2014

This paper presents the design and analysis of a novel split-H-shaped metamaterial unit cell structure that is applicable in a multi-band frequency range and that exhibits negative permeability and permittivity in those frequency bands. In the basic design, the separate split-square resonators are joined by a metal link to form an H-shaped unit structure. Moreover, an analysis and a comparison of the 1 × 1 array and 2 × 2 array structures and the 1 × 1 and 2 × 2 unit cell configurations were performed. All of these configurations demonstrate multi-band operating frequencies (S-band, C-band, X-band and Ku-band) with double-negative characteristics. The equivalent circuit model and measured result for each unit cell are presented to validate the resonant behavior. The commercially available finite-difference time-domain (FDTD)-based simulation software, Computer Simulation Technology (CST) Microwave Studio, was used to obtain the reflection and transmission parameters of each unit cell. This is a novel and promising design in the electromagnetic paradigm for its simplicity, scalability, double-negative characteristics and multi-band operation.
Role of Phospholipase D in G-Protein Coupled Receptor Function
Authors: Brandenburg Lars-Ove , Pufe Thomas , Koch Thomas
Published: July 2014

Prolonged agonist exposure of many G-protein coupled receptors induces a rapid receptor phosphorylation and uncoupling from G-proteins. Resensitization of these desensitized receptors requires endocytosis and subsequent dephosphorylation. Numerous studies show the involvement of phospholipid-specific phosphodiesterase phospholipase D (PLD) in the receptor endocytosis and recycling of many G-protein coupled receptors e.g., opioid, formyl or dopamine receptors. The PLD hydrolyzes the headgroup of a phospholipid, generally phosphatidylcholine (PC), to phosphatidic acid (PA) and choline and is assumed to play an important function in cell regulation and receptor trafficking. Protein kinases and GTP binding proteins of the ADP-ribosylation and Rho families regulate the two mammalian PLD isoforms 1 and 2. Mammalian and yeast PLD are also potently stimulated by phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate. The PA product is an intracellular lipid messenger. PLD and PA activities are implicated in a wide range of physiological processes and diseases including inflammation, diabetes, oncogenesis or neurodegeneration. This review discusses the characterization, structure, and regulation of PLD in the context of membrane located G-protein coupled receptor function.
Microwave-Assisted Kinetic Resolution of Homochiral (Z)-Cyclooct-5-ene-1,2-diol and (Z)-2-Acetoxycyclooct-4-enyl Acetate Using Lipases
Authors: Rouillard Hervé , Deau Emmanuel , Domon Lisianne , Chérouvrier Jean-René , Graber Marianne , Thiéry Valérie
Published: July 2014

Over the last decade, the use of biocatalysts has become an attractive alternative to conventional chemical methods, especially for organic synthesis, due to their unusual properties. Among these enzymes, lipases are the most widely used, because they are cheap, easily available, cofactor-free, and have broad substrate specificity. Combined to microwave heating in non-aqueous medium, recent results suggest that irradiation may influence the enzyme activity. This Communication reports the benefits of lipases and the microwave irradiation on the kinetic resolution of racemic homochiral (Z)-cyclooct-5-ene-1,2-diol and (Z)-2-acetoxycyclooct-4-enyl acetate. In order to best achieve the kinetic resolution, different parameters were studied including the type of lipase, the temperature, the impact of microwave power compared to conventional heating. Optimization of the reaction parameters lead to the obtainment of highly enriched or enantiopure diols and diesters in a clean, efficient and safe way.
N-Alkyl Carbazole Derivatives as New Tools for Alzheimer’s Disease: Preliminary Studies
Authors: Saturnino Carmela , Iacopetta Domenico , Sinicropi Maria , Rosano Camillo , Caruso Anna , Caporale Angelamaria , Marra Nancy , Marengo Barbara , Pronzato Maria , Parisi Ortensia , Longo Pasquale , Ricciarelli Roberta
Published: July 2014

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive and age-related neurodegenerative disorder affecting brain cells and is the most common form of “dementia”, because of the cognitive detriment which takes place. Neuronal disruption represents its major feature, due to the cytosolic accumulation of amyloid β-peptide (Aβ) which leads to senile plaques formation and intracellular neurofibrillary tangles. Many studies have focused on the design and therapeutic use of new molecules able to inhibit Aβ aggregation. In this context, we evaluated the ability of two recently synthesized series of N-alkyl carbazole derivatives to increase the Aβ soluble forms, through molecular docking simulations and in vitro experiments. Our data evidenced that two carbazole derivatives, the most active, adopt distinct binding modes involving key residues for Aβ fibrillization. They exhibit a good interfering activity on Aβ aggregation in mouse (N2a) cells, stably expressing wild-type human amyloid precursor protein (APP) 695. These preliminary results are promising and we are confident that the N-alkyl carbazole derivatives may encourage next future studies needed for enlarging the knowledge about the AD disease approach.
Determination of Phenol Compounds In Surface Water Matrices by Bar Adsorptive Microextraction-High Performance Liquid Chromatography-Diode Array Detection
Authors: Neng Nuno , Nogueira José
Published: July 2014

Bar adsorptive microextraction combined with liquid desorption followed by high performance liquid chromatography with diode array detection (BAµE-LD/HPLC-DAD) is proposed for the determination of trace levels of five phenol compounds (3-nitrophenol, 4-nitrophenol, bisphenol-A, 4-n-octylphenol and 4-n-nonylphenol) in surface water matrices. By using a polystyrene-divinylbenzene copolymer (PS-DVB) sorbent phase, high selectivity and efficiency is achieved even against polydimethylsiloxane through stir bar sorptive extraction. Assays performed by BAµE(PS-DVB)-LD/HPLC-DAD on 25 mL water samples spiked at the 10.0 µg/L levels yielded recoveries over 88.0% ± 5.7% for all five analytes, under optimized experimental conditions. The analytical performance showed good precision (RSD < 15%), detection limits of 0.25 µg/L and linear dynamic ranges (1.0–25.0 μg/L) with determination coefficient higher than 0.9904. By using the standard addition method, the application of the present method to surface water matrices allowed very good performances at the trace level. The proposed methodology proved to be a suitable alternative to monitor phenol compounds in surface water matrices, showing to be easy to implement, reliable, sensitive and requiring a low sample volume.
Fluorescent Probes for Exploring Plant Cell Wall Deconstruction: A Review
Authors: Paës Gabriel
Published: July 2014

Plant biomass is a potential resource of chemicals, new materials and biofuels that could reduce our dependency on fossil carbon, thus decreasing the greenhouse effect. However, due to its chemical and structural complexity, plant biomass is recalcitrant to green biological transformation by enzymes, preventing the establishment of integrated bio-refineries. In order to gain more knowledge in the architecture of plant cell wall to facilitate their deconstruction, many fluorescent probes bearing various fluorophores have been devised and used successfully to reveal the changes in structural motifs during plant biomass deconstruction, and the molecular interactions between enzymes and plant cell wall polymers. Fluorescent probes are thus relevant tools to explore plant cell wall deconstruction.