bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estimating trophic position in marine and estuarine food webs
Authors: Carscallen W. Mather A. , Vandenberg Kristen , Lawson Julia M. , Martinez Neo D. , Romanuk Tamara N.
Published: March 2012

Structural or binary approaches, based on presence‐absence of feeding links, are the most common method of assembling food webs and form the basis of the most well explored food web models. Binary approaches to assembling feeding links are often criticized as being less powerful and accurate than flow‐based methods. To test this assumption we compared binary estimates of trophic position with estimates based on stable isotope values of nitrogen (δ15N). For 366 species from eight marine and estuarine food webs we compared trophic position estimates based on binary (presence‐absence) feeding links with estimates based on the stable isotope of nitrogen (δ15N). For a subset of 127 fish species in four of the webs we further compared trophic position estimates based on gut content analysis using a flow‐based algorithm using data from FishBase.org with binary and δ15N estimates. Across all species and webs binary estimates of trophic position were strongly correlated (R = 0.644) with δ15N estimates. On average binary estimates differed from baseline corrected δ15N estimates by 2.33% for mean trophic position and 6.57% for maximum trophic position. On average the difference between binary δ15N estimates was 0.14 of a trophic level. For the subset of 127 fish species binary estimates performed similarly or more accurately in predicting δ15N values than the flow‐based estimates. Binary approaches to assembling feeding links are often criticized as being less powerful and accurate than flow‐based methods. Our results show a high concordance between binary and δ15N estimates of trophic position as well as showing that in some cases binary estimates are better predictors of δ15N than flow‐based estimates, reaffirming the robustness of the structural approach to assembling food webs. Additional cross‐validation studies in other ecosystems are necessary to determine whether our results can be generalized to terrestrial and freshwater ecosystems.
Exfoliative Cytology and Titanium Dental Implants: A Pilot Study
Authors: Olmedo Daniel G. , Nalli Gabriela , Verdú Sergio , Paparella María L. , Cabrini Rómulo L.
Published: March 2012

Background: Oral exfoliative cytology is a diagnostic method that involves the study of cells exfoliated from the oral mucosa. Ions/particles released from metallic implants can remain in the peri‐implant milieu. The aim of the present study is to assess the presence of metal particles in cells exfoliated from peri‐implant oral mucosa around titanium dental implants.

Methods: The study comprised 30 patients carrying titanium dental implants, who had neither a metallic prosthesis nor metal restorations in neighboring teeth. Individuals undergoing orthodontic therapy and those who had oral piercing were also excluded from the study. The study sample included patients with and without peri‐implantitis. Cytologic samples of the peri‐implant area were collected. Samples of the marginal gingiva on the contralateral side of the implant were taken from the same individuals to serve as control. Cytologic analysis was performed using light microscopy. Titanium concentration was determined using inductively coupled plasma‐mass spectrophotometry.

Results: Metal‐like particles were observed inside and outside epithelial cells and macrophages in cytologic smears of peri‐implant mucosa of both patients with and without peri‐implantitis. No particles were found in the control cytologic samples. The concentration of titanium was higher in the peri‐implantitis group compared with the group without peri‐implantitis; no traces of titanium were observed in controls.

Conclusions: Regardless of an inflammatory response, ions/particles are released from the surface of the implant into the biologic milieu. Exfoliative cytology is a simple technique that may be used to detect metal particles in cells exfoliated from the peri‐implant mucosa.
Nano‐Sized Calcium Phosphate Particles for Periodontal Gene Therapy
Authors: Elangovan Satheesh , Jain Shardool , Tsai Pei‐Chin , Margolis Henry C. , Amiji Mansoor
Published: March 2012

Background: Growth factors such as platelet‐derived growth factor (PDGF) have significantly enhanced periodontal therapy outcomes with a high degree of variability, mostly due to the lack of continual supply for a required period of time. One method to overcome this barrier is gene therapy. The aim of this in vitro study is to evaluate PDGF‐B gene delivery in fibroblasts using nano‐sized calcium phosphate particles (NCaPP) as vectors.

Methods: NCaPP incorporating green fluorescent protein (NCaPP‐GFP) and PDGF‐B (NCaPP‐PDGF‐B) plasmids were synthesized using an established precipitation system and characterized using transmission electron microscopy and 1.2% agarose gel electrophoresis. Biocompatibility and transfection of the nanoplexes in fibroblasts were evaluated using cytotoxicity assay and florescence microscopy, respectively. Polymerase chain reaction and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay were performed to evaluate PDGF‐B transfection after different time points of treatments, and the functionality of PDGF‐B transfection was evaluated using the cell proliferation assay.

Results: Synthesized NCaPP nanoplexes incorporating the genes of GFP and PDGF‐B were spherical in shape and measured about 30 to 50 nm in diameter. Gel electrophoresis confirmed DNA incorporation and stability within the nanoplexes, and 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐5‐(3‐carboxymethoxyphenyl)‐2‐(4‐sulfophenyl)‐2H‐tetrazolium reagent assay demonstrated their biocompatibility in fibroblasts. In vitro transfection studies revealed a higher and longer lasting transfection after NCaPP‐PDGF‐B treatment, which lasted up to 96 hours. Significantly enhanced fibroblast proliferation observed in NCaPP‐PDGF‐B–treated cells confirmed the functionality of these nanoplexes.

Conclusion: NCaPP demonstrated higher levels of biocompatibility and efficiently transfected PDGF plasmids into fibroblasts under described in vitro conditions.
Predicting normalised monthly patterns of domestic external water demand using rainfall and temperature data
Authors: Taylor B. A.
Published: March 2012

An Australian national approach is presented to predict monthly patterns of local domestic external water demand from climatic indices of daily rainfall and maximum temperature. The model, which can be rapidly applied to potentially any location in Australia, has been verified by measured monthly external water demand at Adelaide, Bundaberg, Emerald, Fraser Coast, Gold Coast, Mackay, Melbourne, Newcastle, Perth and Toowoomba. The survey data represents demands in periods prior to, during and after the millennium drought of 2001–2005 by discontinuously spanning 25 years from 1985 to 2010. The model avoids local calibration through a national regression of parameters. A demand index is produced that predicts daily proportions of annual demand. Results show that the model is capable of identifying 90% of the spatial and temporal variability in water demand, based on daily index summations by month. This research is useful for reliability estimates of intermittent water supplies, such as rainwater harvesting.
Eliminating turbidity in drinking water using the mucilage of a common cactus
Authors: Pichler Thomas , Young Kevin , Alcantar Norma
Published: March 2012

Diced Nopal cladodes (pads) have been used for the treatment of turbid natural spring waters in Latin America. To investigate this phenomenon, the mucilage derived from the species Opuntia ficus-indica was investigated. Comparison against the commonly used synthetic flocculant, aluminium sulfate (Al2(SO4)3) demonstrated the high efficiency of the cactus to eliminate turbidity. The mucilage extract increased particulate settling rates 330% compared with aluminium sulfate, at dosage concentrations of 3 mg L−1, while its performance was equivalent at doses 0.3% of the required Al2(SO4)3 concentration. The cactus mucilage, which consists of complex carbohydrates and sugars, has unique surface activity characteristics that make it an ideal candidate for enhancing dispersion properties, creating emulsifications, and for reducing the surface tension of high polarity liquids. These results indicated that the Nopal cactus mucilage has the potential to be the basis for a new ‘green’ technology, which is environmentally benign and cost-effective.
Environmental analysis of chemicals and energy consumption in water treatment plants: case study of Oslo, Norway
Authors: Venkatesh G. , Brattebø Helge
Published: March 2012

This paper studies the trend in the consumption of energy and chemicals and the associated environmental impacts, for water treatment plants (WTPs) in Oslo, over the years between 2000 and 2009. The Norwegian Drinking Water Regulations stipulate that supplied water should comply with over 50 quality criteria. Abiding by the regulations and improving the water quality has its costs – economically and environmentally. Quality improvement entails, inter alia, the consumption of more chemicals, both in terms of quantity and variety, and a rise in energy consumption. In order to determine the environmental impacts of the consumption of chemicals and energy, an environmental life cycle assessment (LCA) was carried out. It was observed that the impacts of chemicals have increased dramatically after 2007, courtesy of a process upgrading at one of the WTPs. Except in the years 2004 and 2007, the impacts attributable to chemicals consumption have exceeded those due to energy consumption. Global warming is the key impact in both cases, though in the case of energy consumption, abiotic depletion and acidification are also significant.
Ethics as ethical rebellion: Good as the externalization of particularity in Hegel’s elements of the philosophy of right
Authors: Haber Ana
Published: March 2012

Effectuation of Good in Hegel?s Elements of the Philosophy of Right consists
in neither happiness nor welfare but in deliberate and courageous
externalization of particular will. Such notion of Good works directly
contrary to the ?good? as social peace where people are entertained by
comfort and therefore maintained in the status of masses. Compensating the
lack of one?s freedom by comfort is rather a characteristic of the world of
Abstract Right (which Morality is on the path of overcoming). Abstract Right
is synonymous with the right of might be?cause in it, righteousness is
defined through contractual in(justice).
Transformation of citizenship regimes in Serbia since 1990: The key elements
Authors: Vasiljevic Jelena
Published: March 2012

The discussion on citizenship in Serbia, as laid out in this paper, is a
proposal to look at the citizenship regimes as reflections of (changing)
trends in the ways the body of citizens and nation is being conceptualized
and consequently managed within a given political community by its policy
makers. This is a perspective from which citizenship can be seen as a means
of giving legal substance to the underlying idea of congruence between state
and nation. I will argue that the legacy of different attempts at defining
the relation between the Serbian state and the people, coupled with the wider
context of Yugoslav conflicts and post-conflict developments in the region,
led to an unconsolidated citizenship regime in Serbia with varying and
contested conceptions about how to achieve congruence of state, territory and
nation.
The search for virtue
Authors: Nikitovic Aleksandar
Published: March 2012

In the combat for virtue, waged between Plato and the Sophists, Plato was
striving to keep the contents of old Hellenic ethics, but not their mythical
form, where Sophism discovered significant shortcomings and thanks to that
challenged the whole contents of old Hellenic ethics. On the other hand,
Plato accepted the new form of rational thinking, but not the dismantling
unilateralism of Sohpism rationality. In other words, Plato embarked on
theoreticizing the contents of old Hellenic ethics, aspiring to reconcile the
fundamental principle of traditional view of the world with the new ruling
form of thinking.
Red blood count in dairy cows in periparturient period and in early lactation
Authors: Davidovic Vesna , Joksimovic-Todorovic Mirjana , Hristov Slavca , Stankovic Branislav
Published: March 2012

The paper presents results of red blood count studies in dairy cows in the
periparturient period and early lactation, when cows are in a state of
extreme stress due to intensive endocrine and metabolic changes.
Investigations were carried out on 20 cows of the Holstein-Friesian breed
which were in their second to fifth lactation. Blood samples were drawn 15
days before calving, on the first day after partus (2-5h) and on days 15, 30,
and 45 of lactation. The biggest average number of erythrocytes
(7.00?0.48?1012/L blood), haemoglobin concentration (115.95?8.49 g/L blood)
and haematocrit value (33.11?2.97%) were established on the first day after
partus. This erythrocyte count was significantly higher against the value
determined during the last two week of gravidity (p<0.01) and during the
early stage of lactation (p<0.001). Haemoglobin and haematocrit concentration
in the prepartal period and immediately after calving were statistically
significantly higher (p<0.001) than on days 15, 30, and 45 of lactation.
Haematological indexes: the average erythrocyte volume (MCV), average
haemoglobin value in erythrocytes (MCH) and average haemoglobin concentration
in erythrocytes (MCHC) were within the limits of the referent values. On the
first day of partus, the erythrocyte sedimentation rate was significantly
higher than in early lactation (p<0.01 on days 15 and 30, and p<0.001 on day
45). The results of the analyses indicated a decrease in all examined
haematological parameters during the period of lactation, but the determined
differences were not significant.
Anxiolytic and antidepressive effects of magnesium in rats and their effect on general behavioural parameters
Authors: Samardzic Janko , Savic Kristina , Baltezarevic Dragana , Matunovic Radomir , Obradovic Miljana , Jancic Jasna , Obradovic Dragan
Published: March 2012

Magnesium (Mg) is an essential element that catalyses more than 300 enzyme
systems. Its effects on the central nervous system are exhibited through the
blocking of activity of N-methyl D-aspartat (NMDA) receptors and potentiating
of GABA-ergic neurotransmission. Due to the vast importance of these two
neurotransmission systems in the fine regulation of the central integrative
function activity, the aim of this research was to test the anxiolytic and
antidepressive effects of magnesium, after acute and repeated application,
and its influence on general behavioural parameters. In this research Wistar
albino rats were treated with increasing doses of Mg chloride 6-hydrate (MgCl
10, 20, 30 mg/kg). In order to determine anxiolytic and antidepressive
properties of magnesium two models were used: elevated plus maze (EPM) and
forced swim test (FST). Behavioural parameters (stillness and mobility) were
recorded during acute and repeated administration of the active substance.
Results of EPM testing showed no significant difference between groups,
p>0.05. After acute application of increasing doses of magnesium chloride
hydrate in FST, we showed the statistically significant difference in
immobility time between the group of animals treated with Mg and the control
group treated with the solvent, p<0.01. The statistically significant
difference between groups treated with the lowest and the middle dose of
magnesium and the controls was observed already on the first day of examining
behavioural parameters (p=0.020, p=0.010). Our research has showed that
magnesium, following acute administration, increases locomotor activity, and
has an antidepressive but not an anxiolytic effect.
Epizootiological and clinical characteristics of bovine dermatophytosis caused by Trichophyton verrucosum
Authors: Potkonjak Aleksandar , Kovacevic Jovan , Suvajdzic Ljiljana , Tomic Dijana , Lako Bjanka , Milanov Dubravka
Published: March 2012

Dermatophytoses present frequent contagious fungal skin diseases in humans
and animals. Zoophyllic types of dermatophytes are almost always present in
animals. The dominant dermatophyte specie in cattle and other ruminants is
Trichophyton verrucosum of the Family Arthrodermataceae. In the course of
this investigation, a total of 566 animals of the Holstein- Friesian breed
were examined epizootiologically and clinically. Methods of epizootiological,
clinical and laboratory examinations were applied. The material used for
laboratory investigations that included direct microscopic examinations
including the isolation and identification of the cause, were hair samples
and skin scars of cattle suspected of having the infection. Using the
described methods, we established and described cattle infection with T.
verrucosum in a farm in the district Juznobacki okrug, in the Republic of
Serbia. A prevalence of cattle skin infection with T. verrucosum of 29.5% was
established. In addition to the exhibited charateristic eflorescences that
correspond to the clinical picture of dermatophytoses, we also registered the
occurrence of hemorrhages, suppurations and necroses. Further
epizootiological investigations are necesssary in order to eliminate the
source of infection.
Effect of different thickness of keratin layer of ductus papillaris on state of parenchyma in cow udder
Authors: Davidov Ivana , Radinovic Miodrag , Bobos Stanko , Masic Zoran , Lalosevic Dusan
Published: March 2012

Ductus papillaris presents the frontline of defense of the mammary gland
against the penetration of microorganisms into the milk cystern and the
mammary gland parenchyma. The specific structure of ductus papillaris is in
the stratum corneum which lines the ductus papillaris. It is a fine layer
similar to wax of various thickness. The thickness of the stratum corneum
depends on the age and breed of the animal, as well as on the number of past
lactation periods. The stratum corneum or the keratin layer of the ductus
papillaris has a bacteriostatic and bactericidal effect and prevents the
ascendent penetration of microorganisms into the mammary gland. Measurements
of the thickness of the keratin layer of ductus papillaris of each udder
quarter revealed the existence of different thickness of the keratin layer.
Histological examinations of parenchyma sections of each udder quarter showed
different degrees of leukocytary infiltration. The degree of the leukocytary
infiltration indicates the existence of various inflammatory processes in the
parenchyma that occurred due to the weak frontline defense of the mammary
gland against the penetration of microorganisms.
Following changes in total number of mesophilic bacteria and torry meter readings in samples of fresh trout packaged in modified atmosphere and vacuum
Authors: Milijasevic Milan , Babic Jelena , Spiric Aurelija , Jovanovic Jelena , Lakicevic Brankica , Borovic Branka , Baltic Milan
Published: March 2012

Today, food must be healthy, subjected to minimal processing, and
attractively packaged, as the expectations of consumers are ever higher.
Consumers are highly sensitive to the use of additives in the food industry.
There is a constant demand for fresh food that does not contain any
unnecessarily added chemicals. In order to prevent spoilage of food items, an
efficient and intelligent concept for preserving freshness has been developed
- packaging in a modified atmosphere. Changes in a certain composition of the
atmosphere within the packaging have resulted in a longer shelf life and a
satisfactory quality of the food articles. Modified atmosphere packaging
(MAP) is well-known and has been applied in practice in the food processing
industry for more than one century. The objective of these investigations was
to determine the growth of the total number of mesophilic bacteria in the
meat of trout packaged in a vacuum and a modified atmosphere and torry meter
reading results due to changes in the dielectric characteristics of the skin
that take place during the period of storage of the fresh fish. California
trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) with an average weight of 293 g was used for the
experimental part of the investigations. Four groups of fish samples were set
up for the research. The first three groups of samples were packaged in a
modified atmosphere with a different ratio of gases: Group I - 60%CO2+40%N2;
Group II - 40%CO2+60%N2; Group III - 90%CO2+10%N2. Group IV comprised samples
packaged in a vacuum. Investigations were carried out on days 0, 7, 14, and
21 of storage. The total number of mesophilic bacteria in the examined
samples was determined according to the method ISO 4833. Measurements of
changes in the dielectric characteristics of the fish skin were performed
using a torry meter apparatus (The Torry Fish Freshness Meter). The results
have shown that packaging of fresh trout in a modified atmosphere (60% CO2 +
40% N2 and 40% CO2 + 60% N2) has an advantage regarding the growth of the
total number of mesophilic bacteria and the decreased torry meter readings in
comparison with vacuum packaging and packaging with a higher concentration of
carbon dioxide (90%).
Investigating chemical parameters in hot dog sausages from Novi Sad market
Authors: Prica Nadezda , Baltic Milan , Zivkov-Balos Milica , Cupic Zeljko , Mihaljev Zeljko
Published: March 2012

Meat products play an important role in the modern diet. The production of
cooked sausages comprises an important segment in the complex meat industry.
Hot dogs are prepared according to production specifications and differences
in the quality of products can therefore be expected. This paper presents a
comparative analysis of chemical parameters in products of five different
manufacturers at the Novi Sad market. Water content, fat, protein, sodium
chloride, the relative protein content of connective tissue in meat protein
(RCP) and ash were analyzed. The difference between the average contents of
chemical quality parameters in hot dogs was examined. The average water
content ranged from 56.29?3.30% to 61.44?4.08%. The average total fat content
ranged from 17.60?3.07% to 20.66?4.65%. No statistically significant
difference (p?0.05) was detected in the fat content of the products of
manufacturers D and B, as well as C and B. Between the average fat content of
the producers E and D the difference in fat content was found to be p?0.01.
In all other cases, the difference between the average fat content was
p?0.001. The average total protein content in hot dogs ranged from
11.77?1.08% and 15.41?1.82. No statistically significant difference (p?0.05)
was detected between the average total protein content in hot dogs of
manufacturers A and C. Between the average protein content of D and E meat
manufacturers the statistically significant difference had a value of p?0.01,
and the average protein content in hot dogs of all other manufacturers had a
significant difference (p?0.001). The total protein content in all five
manufacturers of hot dogs met the prescribed standard (10%). RCP content in
the hot dogs of different producers ranged from 17.34?0.95% to 22.33?2.08%.
No statistically significant difference (p?0.05) was detected in the average
contents of RCP in hot dogs of manufacturers D and E and A and B. but a
statistically significant difference was detected (p?0.001). between the
average content of RCP in all other manufacturers of hot dogs. The average
chloride content in hot dogs from different manufacturers ranged from
1.30?0.10% to 2.55%?0.16%. The average ash content in different hot dog
producers ranged from 1.99?0.18% to 3.46?0.22%. The average content of
chloride and ash in all five manufacturers was significantly different.
Carvacrol importance in veterinary and human medicine as ecologic insecticide and acaricide
Authors: Vucinic Marijana , Nedeljkovic-Trailovic Jelena , Trailovic Sasa , Ivanovic Sasa , Milovanovic Mirjana , Krnjaic Dejan
Published: March 2012

Carvacrol is an active ingredient of essential oils from different plants,
mainly from oregano and thyme species. It poseses biocidal activity agains
many artropodes of the importance for veterinary and human medicine.
Carvacrol acts as repelent, larvicide, insecticide and acaricide. It acts
against pest artropodes such as those that serve as mechanical or biological
vectors for many causal agents of viral, bacterial and parasitic diseases for
animals and humans. Therefore, it may be used not only in pest arthropodes
control but in vector borne diseases control, too. In the paper carvacrol
bioactivity against mosquitoes, house flies, cockroaches, ticks and mites are
described. Potencial modes of carvacrol action on artropodes are given, too.
Carvacrol reachs its biotoxicity against arthropodes alone or in combination
with other active ingredients from the same plant of its origin, such as
tymol, cymen or others. The paper explains reasons for frequently
investigations on essential oils and other natural products of plant origin
to their biotoxicity against food stored pest or pest of medicinal
importance, as well as, needs for their use in agriculture, veterinary and
human medicine.
Corrective surgery of external sexual organs in female pseudo hermaphrodite dog
Authors: Prokic Branislav , Milijevic Dusan , Mrvic Verica , Prokic Bogomir
Published: March 2012

Hermaphroditism is a congenital anomaly characterized by the presentation of
sexual characteristics of both sexes in one individual. Hermaphrodites can
occur in every mammal species. Real and pseudo hermaphrodites can be
distinguished. Both ovaries and testes (ovotestes) are presented in real
hermaphrodites, while the conformation of the individual does not correspond
to any sex in particular. Pseudo hermaphrodites are more frequent. Male
pseudo hermaphrodites have testes and female external genital
characteristics, while female pseudo hermaphrodites have ovaries and
rudimentary external genitals reassembling to masculine ones. Corrective
surgical removal of a rudimental penis in a female pseudo hermaphrodite dog
is presented in the paper.
Significance of Urinary Full-Length and Ectodomain Forms of Megalin in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Ogasawara Shinya , Hosojima Michihiro , Kaseda Ryohei , Kabasawa Hideyuki , Yamamoto-Kabasawa Keiko , Kurosawa Hiroyuki , Sato Hiroyoshi , Iino Noriaki , Takeda Tetsuro , Suzuki Yoshiki , Narita Ichiei , Yamagata Kunihiro , Tomino Yasuhiko , Gejyo Fumitake , Hirayama Yoshiaki , Sekine Sakari , Saito Akihiko
Published: March 2012

OBJECTIVE

Megalin, an endocytic receptor in proximal tubule cells, is involved in the mechanisms of albuminuria in diabetic nephropathy (DN). To develop efficient novel biomarkers associated with the pathogenesis of DN, we investigated urinary megalin excretion in type 2 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay systems were established with monoclonal antibodies against the NH2 (amino [A]-megalin assay) and COOH (C-megalin assay) termini of megalin to analyze urinary forms of megalin in 68 patients with type 2 diabetes.

RESULTS

The A-megalin assay mainly detected a megalin ectodomain form in the soluble urinary fraction, whereas the C-megalin assay identified a full-length form in both soluble and insoluble fractions. Urinary C-megalin levels were significantly high in patients with normoalbuminuria, were elevated in line with increased albuminuria, and showed a better association with estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) (<60 mL/min/1.73 m2) than did urinary albumin. In contrast, urinary A-megalin levels were increased in patients with normo- and microalbuminuria but not in those with macroalbuminuria. Urinary C-megalin levels were also positively associated with plasma inorganic phosphate and negatively with hemoglobin levels in those showing no features of bleeding and not taking vitamin D analogs, phosphate binders, or erythropoiesis-stimulating agents.

CONCLUSIONS

Urinary full-length megalin excretion as measured by the C-megalin assay is well associated with reduced eGFR and linked to the severity of DN, phosphate dysregulation, and anemia, whereas urinary excretion of megalin ectodomain as measured by the A-megalin assay may be associated with distinctive mechanisms of earlier DN in type 2 diabetes.
Relationship Between Glycosylated Hemoglobin Assessment and Glucose Therapy Intensification in Patients With Diabetes Hospitalized for Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Stolker Joshua M. , Spertus John A. , McGuire Darren K. , Lind Marcus , Tang Fengming , Jones Philip G. , Inzucchi Silvio E. , Rathore Saif S. , Maddox Thomas M. , Masoudi Frederick A. , Kosiborod Mikhail
Published: March 2012

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the relationship between A1C and glucose therapy intensification (GTI) in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) hospitalized for acute myocardial infarction (AMI).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A1C was measured as part of routine care (clinical A1C) or in the core laboratory (laboratory A1C, results unavailable to clinicians). GTI predictors were identified using hierarchical Poisson regression.

RESULTS

Of 1,274 patients, 886 (70%) had clinical A1C and an additional 263 had laboratory A1C measured. Overall, A1C was <7% in 419 (37%), 7–9% in 415 (36%), and >9% in 315 patients (27%). GTI occurred in 31% of patients and was more frequent in those with clinical A1C both before (34 vs. 24%, P < 0.001) and after multivariable adjustment (relative risk 1.34 [95% CI 1.12–1.62] vs. no clinical A1C).

CONCLUSIONS

Long-term glucose control is poor in most AMI patients with DM, but only a minority of patients undergo GTI at discharge. Inpatient A1C assessment is strongly associated with intensification of glucose-lowering therapy.
A peptide uncoupling CRMP-2 from the presynaptic Ca2+ channel complex demonstrates efficacy in animal models of migraine and AIDS therapy-induced neuropathy
Authors: Ripsch Matthew , Ballard Carrie , Khanna May , Hurley Joyce , White Fletcher , Khanna Rajesh
Published: March 2012

Biological, genetic, and clinical data provide compelling proof for N-type voltage-gated calcium channels (CaV2.2) as therapeutic targets for chronic pain. While decreasing channel function is ultimately anti-nociceptive, directly targeting the channel can lead to multiple adverse effects. Targeting regulators of channel activity may facilitate improved analgesic properties associated with channel block and afford a broader therapeutic window. Towards this end, we recently identified a short peptide, designated CBD3, derived from collapsin response mediator protein 2 (CRMP-2) that suppressed inflammatory and neuropathic hypersensitivity by inhibiting CRMP-2 binding to CaV2.2 [Brittain et al., Nature Medicine 17:822–829 (2011)]. Rodents administered CBD3 intraperitoneally, fused to the HIV TAT protein cell penetrating domain, exhibited antinociception lasting ∼4 hours highlighting potential instability, limited oral bioavailability, and/or rapid elimination of peptide. This report focuses on improving upon the parental CBD3 peptide. Using SPOTScan analysis of synthetic versions of the parental CBD3 peptide, we identified peptides harboring single amino acid mutations that bound with greater affinity to CaV2.2. One such peptide, harboring a phenylalanine instead of glycine (G14F), was tested in rodent models of migraine and neuropathic pain. In vivo laser Doppler blood flowmetry measure of capsaicin-induced meningeal vascular responses related to headache pain was almost completely suppressed by dural application of the G14F peptide. The G14F mutant peptide, administered intraperitoneally, also exhibited greater antinociception in Stavudine (2′-3′-didehydro-2′-3′-dideoxythymidine (d4T)/Zerit®) model of AIDS therapy-induced peripheral neuropathy compared to the parent CBD3 peptide. These results demonstrate the patent translational value of small biologic drugs targeting CaV2.2 for management of clinical pain.
Spherical harmonic analysis of cortical complexity in autism and dyslexia
Authors: Williams Emily , El-Baz Ayman , Nitzken Matthew , Switala Andrew , Casanova Manuel
Published: March 2012

Alterations in gyral form and complexity have been consistently noted in both autism and dyslexia. In this present study, we apply spherical harmonics, an established technique which we have exapted to estimate surface complexity of the brain, in order to identify abnormalities in gyrification between autistics, dyslexics, and controls. On the order of absolute surface complexity, autism exhibits the most extreme phenotype, controls occupy the intermediate ranges, and dyslexics exhibit lesser surface complexity. Here, we synthesize our findings which demarcate these three groups and review how factors controlling neocortical proliferation and neuronal migration may lead to these distinctive phenotypes.
A Solution of Non-Linear Differential Problem with Application to Selected Geotechnical Problems / Pewne Rozwiazanie Nieliniowego Problemu Rózniczkowego Z Zastosowaniem Do Wybranych Zagadnien Geotechnicznych
Authors: Milewska A.
Published: March 2012

A certain non-linear differential equation containing a power of unknown function being the solution is considered with application to selected geotechnical problems. The equation can be derived to a linear differential equation by a proper substitution and properties of operations G and S.
Global Safety Factor or Nonlinear Design of Concrete Structures
Authors: Wolinski Sz.
Published: March 2012

The paper focuses on different approaches to the safety assessment of concrete structures designed using nonlinear analysis. The method based on the concept of partial factors recommended by Eurocodes, and methods proposed by M. Holicky, and by the author of this paper are presented, discussed and illustrated on a numerical example. Global safety analysis by M. Holicky needs estimation of the resistance coefficient of variation from the mean and characteristic values of resistance, and requires two separate nonlinear analyses. The reliability index value and the sensitivity factor for resistance should be also identified. In the method proposed in this paper, the resistance coefficient of variation necessary to calculate the characteristic value of resistance may be adopted from test results and the resultant partial factor for materials properties, and may be calculated according to Eurocodes. Thus, only one nonlinear analysis from mean values of reinforcing steel and concrete is required
Flexibl Pavement Analysis Considering Temperature Profile and Anisotropy Behavior in Hot Mix Asphalt Layer
Authors: Choi Joonho , Seo Youngguk , Kim Sung-Hee , Beadles Samuel
Published: March 2012

A three Dimensional finite element model (FEM) incorporating the anisotropic properties and temperature profile of hot mix asphalt (HMA) pavement was developed to predict the structural responses of HMA pavement subject to heavy loads typically encountered in the field. In this study, ABAQUS was adopted to model the stress and strain relationships within the pavement structure. The results of the model were verified using data collected from the Korean Highway Corporation Test Road (KHCTR). The results demonstrated that both the base course and surface course layers follow the anisotropic behavior and the incorporation of the temperature profile throughout the pavement has a substantial effect on the pavement response predictions that impact pavement design. The results also showed that the anisotropy level of HMA and base material can be reduced to as low as 80% and 15% as a result of repeated loading, respectively.
Finite Element Modeling of Composite Concrete-Steel Columns / Numeryczne Modelowanie Zespolonych Słupów Stalowo-Betonowych
Authors: Kwasniewski L. , Szmigiera E. , Siennicki M.
Published: March 2012

This paper presents the numerical part of the research program on concrete-filled steel columns. Nonlinear, three dimensional FE analysis of axial compression, was conducted using the finite element program ABAQUS. The numerical results were validated through comparison with experimental data in terms of ultimate loading and deformation modes. Modeling related problems such as the definition of boundary conditions, imperfections, concrete-steel interaction, material representation and others are investigated using a comprehensive parametric study. The developed FE models will be used for an enhanced interpretation of experiments and for the predictive study of cases not included in the experimental testing.
The Analysis of the Forest Flora of the Strzyżowskie Foothills from the Perspective of Presence of Anthropogenic Species
Authors: Towpasz Krystyna , Stachurska-Swakoń Alina
Published: March 2012

The anthropogenic pressure of the forest communities of the Strzyżowskie Foothills (the Western Carpathians) was estimated on the basis of phytosociological materials. Carr communities are among the most threatened by invasive and alien species of the forest flora. The phenomenon of invasiveness of native species such as Calamagrostis epigejos or Carex brizoides was described. The highest number of ancient woodland indicator species was noted in the beech forest.
Diversity of Forest and Shrub Communities as a Result of Site History and of Extensive and Intensive Forest Management (Glinno Ługi Case Study)
Authors: Woziwoda Beata , Ambrożkiewicz Katarzyna
Published: March 2012

The paper presents the diversity of natural and anthropogenic forest communities occurring in post-cultivated fields in Glinno Ługi. An impoverished fresh pine forest association (Leucobryo-Pinetum) and nine secondary forest communities have been distinguished in the transect line (1.16 km in length). Factors influencing the structure and species composition of recent forest communities, such as habitat properties, previous land use forms and the intensity of forest management, are described.
Actual State and Changes of Flora and Vegetation in the Broczówka Steppe Reserve
Authors: Cwener Anna , Nowak Marcin
Published: March 2012

This paper presents floristic characterization of xerothermic plant associations and analysis of changes of flora within Broczówka steppe reserve. The floristic research was carried out in 2004-2009. Numerous species that were noted here almost 30 years ago were not found in the present study, the size of other populations decreased. Nevertheless, many plant species occurring in the reserve are rare, endangered or protected. Six major plant associations, impoverished form of two ones and one plant community are distinguished in the whole area of the reserve. Occurrence of two plant associations was not confirmed.
Introduction of Alien Tree Species and Its Influence on Floristical Composition and Vegetation Structure of Acidophilous Oak Forests: the Experimental Plots in the Zielonka Forest
Authors: Ratyńska Halina , Grodzki Marian , Waldon Barbara , Wachowiak Ewa
Published: March 2012

In 1879 Schwappach first established 54 experimental forest plots on habitat of acidophilous oak forest Calamagrostio-Quercetum in the Zielonka Forest near Poznań, on which 20 exotic tree species were cultivated. Until this day 32 of the mentioned forest sites have been preserved and today only 9 species are present there. The aim of the study was to determine actual condition of the experimental plots, a description of their flora and vegetation, as well as a comparison with other test plots situated in the direct neighbourhood. Basing on 63 phytosociological relevés, an influence of exotic species plantings on the structure of vegetation and local biodiversity was assessed. Floristic richness of both experimental plots (88 species), as well as their direct neighbourhood (68) was recognised, along with the geographical-historical groups spectrum and species affiliation to phytosociological classes.
Rational polynomial windows with high attenuation of sidelobes
Authors: Okarma Krzysztof
Published: March 2012

Rational polynomial windows with high attenuation of sidelobes

In the paper the idea of rational polynomial windows optimised towards low level of Fourier spectrum's sidelobes is presented. A relevant advantage of the polynomial windows family and their modifications is their ability to easily change their properties changing only the values of the polynomial coefficients. The obtained frequency characteristics demonstrate better properties of proposed rational windows than their standard polynomial equivalents requiring only the additional division operation. Such approach does not increase the computational complexity in significant way and the great advantage of polynomial windows which is their low computational complexity is preserved.
Iron loss and eddy-current loss analysis in a low-power BLDC motor with magnet segmentation
Authors: Młot Adrian , Korkosz Mariusz , Łukaniszyn Marian
Published: March 2012

Iron loss and eddy-current loss analysis in a low-power BLDC motor with magnet segmentation

This paper considers a Brushless Direct Current (BLDC) machine prototype with six poles and 36 stator slots including a three phase double-layered distributed winding. Presented modifications of rotor construction are identified in order to achieve the best possible compromise of eddy-current losses and cogging torque characteristics. The permanent magnet (PM) eddy-current loss is relatively low compared with the iron loss; it may cause significant heating of the PMs due to the relatively poor heat dissipation from the rotor and it results in partial irreversible demagnetization. A reduction in both losses is achieved by magnet segmentation mounted on the rotor. Various numbers of magnet segmentation is analysed. The presented work concerns the computation of the no-load iron loss in the stator, rotor yoke and eddy-current loss in the magnets. It is shown that the construction of the rotor with segmented magnets can significantly reduce the PM loss (eddy-current loss). The eddy-current loss in PMs is caused by several machine features; the winding structure and large stator slot openings cause flux density variations that induce eddy-currents in the PMs. The effect of these changes on the BLDC motor design is examined in order to improve the machine performance. 3-D finite-element analysis (FEA) is used to investigate the electromagnetic behaviour of the BLDC motor.
Field synthesis for the optimal treatment planning in Magnetic Fluid Hyperthermia
Authors: Di Barba Paolo , Dughiero Fabrizio , Sieni Elisabetta
Published: March 2012

Field synthesis for the optimal treatment planning in Magnetic Fluid Hyperthermia

An automated procedure based on evolutionary computation and Finite Element Analysis (FEA) is proposed to synthesize the optimal distribution of nanoparticles (NPs) in multi-site injection for a Magnetic Fluid Hyperthermia (MFH) therapy. Evolution Strategy and Non dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm (NSGA) are used as optimization procedures coupled with a Finite Element computation tool.
Comparison of transfer functions using estimated rational functions to detect winding mechanical faults in transformers
Authors: Bigdeli Mehdi , Vakilian Mehdi , Rahimpour Ebrahim
Published: March 2012

Comparison of transfer functions using estimated rational functions to detect winding mechanical faults in transformers

As it is found in the related published literatures, the transfer function (TF) evaluation method is the most feasible method for detection of winding mechanical faults in transformers. Therefore, investigation of an accurate method for evaluation of the TFs is very important. This paper presents three new indices to compare the transformer TFs and consequently to detect the winding mechanical faults. These indices are based on estimated rational functions. To develop the method, the necessary measurements are carried out on a 1.3 MVA transformer winding, under intact condition, as well as different fault conditions (axial displacement of winding). The obtained results demonstrate the high potential of proposed method in comparison with two other well-known indices. Additionally, two important methods for describing TFs by rational functions are studied and compared in this paper.
Positivity of descriptor linear systems with regular pencils
Authors: Kaczorek Tadeusz
Published: March 2012

Positivity of descriptor linear systems with regular pencils

The positivity of descriptor continuous-time and discrete-time linear systems with regular pencils are addressed. Such systems can be reduced to standard linear systems and can be decomposed into dynamical and static parts. Two definitions of the positive systems are proposed. It is shown that the definitions are not equivalent. Conditions for the positivity of the systems and the relationship between two classes of positive systems are established. The considerations are illustrated by examples of electrical circuits and numerical examples.
Experimental infection of weaned piglets with enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli O149:F4
Authors: Alexa Pavel , Hamřík Jaroslav , Konstantinová Lucie , Šrámková-Zajacová Zuzana
Published: March 2012

EnterotoxigenicEscherichia coliis an important enteric pathogen causing post-weaning diarrhoea in piglets. Enterotoxins ofE. coliinduce the release of fluid into the intestines without apparent inflammation. Some serotypes ofE. coli, especially O149:F4 can often be identified in association with haemorrhagic gastroenteritis. In this study we infected the weaned piglets (n = 53) by oral administration of enterotoxigenicE. coliO149:F4 strains isolated from piglets suffering from haemorrhagic gastroenteritis. The clinical course of infection and shedding of the challengeE. colistrain in the faeces of infected piglets was monitored for 14 days. The challenge strain soon outnumbered the otherE. colitypes in the intestines of most piglets. Diarrhoea developed in the majority of piglets and its severity varied. Severe diarrhoea was observed in 10% of the piglets but only one piglet died due to dehydration. No inflammatory lesions were detected in the intestines of the dead piglet and the other euthanized piglets. We assume that development of haemorrhagic gastroenteritis depends on the involvement of other factors that need to be identified.E. coliO149:F4 are only one of the causative factors of haemorrhagic gastroenteritis in piglets after weaning.
In vitro combined effect of oregano essential oil and caprylic acid against Salmonella serovars, Escherichia coli O157:H7, Staphylococcus aureus and Listeria monocytogenes
Authors: Hulánková Radka , Bořilová Gabriela
Published: March 2012

In vitro inhibition of foodborne pathogens via action of natural antimicrobials – caprylic acid (CA) and essential oil from Origanum vulgare L. (OEO) with high carvacrol content (72%) was evaluated. For 15 Salmonella strains the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) determined by broth microdilution method ranged between 3.67–4.33 μl·ml-1 for CA and between 0.48–0.57 μl·ml-1 for OEO. For 7 Listeria monocytogenes strains the MIC ranged between 2.17–2.83 μl·ml-1 for CA and between 0.52–0.58 μl·ml-1 for OEO. Type strains of Escherichia coli O157:H7 and Staphylococcus aureus were tested, too, with MIC of CA 3.60 μl·ml-1 and 3.20 μl·ml-1 and MIC of OEO 0.51 μl·ml-1 and 0.48 μl·ml-1, respectively. Furthermore, it was found that the MIC of CA can be decreased by even low addition (0.05%) of citric or acetic acid and to a lesser extent by lactic acid, whereas the MICs of OEO did not notably decrease. Combined application of CA and OEO determined by FIC index led only to an additive effect (0.5 ≤ FIC ≤ 1). Combination of natural additives OEO, CA and eventually acetic or citric acid seems to have the potential to be an effective mixture for inhibition of foodborne pathogens, predominantly Salmonella spp. and L. monocytogenes, even in only slightly acidic food.