bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Presynaptic Resurgent Na+Currents Sculpt the Action Potential Waveform and Increase Firing Reliability at a CNS Nerve Terminal
Authors: Hee Kim Jun , Kushmerick Christopher , von Gersdorff Henrique
Published: November 2010

Axonal and nerve terminal action potentials often display a depolarizing after potential (DAP). However, the underlying mechanism that generates the DAP, and its impact on firing patterns, are poorly understood at axon terminals. Here, we find that at calyx of Held nerve terminals in the rat auditory brainstem the DAP is blocked by low doses of externally applied TTX or by the internal dialysis of low doses of lidocaine analog QX-314. The DAP is thus generated by a voltage-dependent Na+conductance present after the action potential spike. Voltage-clamp recordings from the calyx terminal revealed the expression of a resurgent Na+current (INaR), the amplitude of which increased during early postnatal development. The calyx of Held also expresses a persistent Na+current (INaP), but measurements of calyxINaPtogether with computer modeling indicate that the fast deactivation time constant ofINaPminimizes its contribution to the DAP.INaPis thus neither sufficient nor necessary to generate the calyx DAP, whereasINaRby itself can generate a prominent DAP. Dialysis of a small peptide fragment of the auxiliary β4 Na+channel subunit into immature calyces (postnatal day 5–6) induced an increase inINaRand a larger DAP amplitude, and enhanced the spike-firing precision and reliability of the calyx terminal. Our results thus suggest that an increase ofINaRduring postnatal synaptic maturation is a critical feature that promotes precise and resilient high-frequency firing.
The Caudal Medial Entorhinal Cortex: a Selective Role in Recollection-Based Recognition Memory
Authors: Sauvage Magdalena M. , Beer Zachery , Ekovich Muriel , Ho Lucy , Eichenbaum Howard
Published: November 2010

Recent studies have suggested that the caudal medial entorhinal cortex (cMEC) is specialized for path integration and spatial navigation. However, cMEC is part of a brain system that supports episodic memory for both spatial and nonspatial events, and so may play a role in memory function that goes beyond navigation. Here, we used receiver operating characteristic analysis to investigate the role of the cMEC in familiarity and recollection processes that underlie nonspatial recognition memory in rats. The results indicate that cMEC plays a critical and selective role in recollection-based performance, supporting the view that cMEC supports memory for the spatial and temporal context in which events occur.
Regeneration of New Neurons Is Preserved in Aged Vomeronasal Epithelia
Authors: Brann Jessica H. , Firestein Stuart
Published: November 2010

During normal and diseased aging, it is thought the capacity for tissue regeneration and repair in neuronal tissues diminishes. In the peripheral olfactory system, stem cell reservoirs permit regeneration of olfactory and vomeronasal sensory neurons, a unique capacity among neurons. Following injury, a large number of new neurons can be regenerated in a young animal. However, it is unknown whether this capacity for renewal exists in aged proliferative populations. Here, we report that neuronal replacement-associated proliferation continues in the vomeronasal organ of aged (18–24 months) mice. In addition, the potential for the aged stem cell to yield a mature neuron persisted at the same rate as that observed in young animals. Furthermore, the robust regenerative capacity to respond to both acute and sustained injury following olfactory bulbectomy remains intact even in very old animals. Hence, the neuronal epithelium lining the vomeronasal organ is unique in that it contains stem cells capable of generating functional neurons throughout life and in the aged animal in particular. This persistent regenerative capacity provides hope for neuronal replacement therapies in the aged nervous system.
Protein S Protects Neurons from Excitotoxic Injury by Activating the TAM Receptor Tyro3–Phosphatidylinositol 3-Kinase–Akt Pathway through Its Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin-Like Region
Authors: Zhong Zhihui , Wang Yaoming , Guo Huang , Sagare Abhay , Fernández José A. , Bell Robert D. , Barrett Theresa M. , Griffin John H. , Freeman Robert S. , Zlokovic Berislav V.
Published: November 2010

The anticoagulant factor protein S (PS) protects neurons from hypoxic/ischemic injury. However, molecular mechanisms mediating PS protection in injured neurons remain unknown. Here, we show mouse recombinant PS protects dose-dependently mouse cortical neurons from excitotoxic NMDA-mediated neuritic bead formation and apoptosis by activating the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)–Akt pathway (EC50= 26 ± 4 nm). PS stimulated phosphorylation of Bad and Mdm2, two downstream targets of Akt, which in neurons subjected to pathological overstimulation of NMDA receptors (NMDARs) increased the antiapoptotic Bcl-2 and Bcl-XLlevels and reduced the proapoptotic p53 and Bax levels. Adenoviral transduction with a kinase-deficient Akt mutant (Ad.AktK179A) resulted in loss of PS-mediated neuronal protection, Akt activation, and Bad and Mdm2 phosphorylation. Using the TAM receptors tyrosine kinases Tyro3-, Axl-, and Mer-deficient neurons, we showed that PS protected neurons lacking Axl and Mer, but not Tyro3, suggesting a requirement of Tyro3 for PS-mediated protection. Consistent with these results, PS dose-dependently phosphorylated Tyro3 on neurons (EC50= 25 ± 3 nm). In an invivomodel of NMDA-induced excitotoxic lesions in the striatum, PS dose-dependently reduced the lesion volume in control mice (EC50= 22 ± 2 nm) and protectedAxl−/−andMer−/−transgenic mice, but notTyro3−/−transgenic mice. Using different structural PS analogs, we demonstrated that the C terminus sex hormone-binding globulin-like (SHBG) domain of PS is critical for neuronal protectionin vitroandin vivo. Thus, our data show that PS protects neurons by activating the Tyro3–PI3K–Akt pathway via its SHGB domain, suggesting potentially a novel neuroprotective approach for acute brain injury and chronic neurodegenerative disorders associated with excessive activation of NMDARs.
Theoretical Description of Ion Conduction in Disordered Systems: From Linear to Nonlinear Response
Authors: Röthel Steffen , Friedrich Rudolf , Lühning Lars , Heuer Andreas
Published: November 2010

The modelling of the ion conduction in disordered systems is analysed from two different perspectives. First, molecular dynamics simulations are employed to extract some basic properties of the hopping dynamics. It turns out that the dynamical processes can be described to a very good approximation as vacancy hopping processes. Second, the information content of nonlinear conductivity experiments, using high electric fields, is elucidated. For this purpose the single-particle dynamics on 1D and 2D model energy landscapes is elucidated numerically and partly analytically. The approaches encompass discrete as well as continuous energy landscapes, yielding complementary results about the dynamics. The impact for the interpretation of experimental data is discussed.
First and Second Universalities: Expeditions Towards and Beyond
Authors: Funke K. , Banhatti Radha D. , Laughman D. M. , Badr L. G. , Mutke M. , Santic A. , Wrobel W. , Fellberg E. M. , Biermann C.
Published: November 2010

Understanding the mechanisms of translational and localised ionic movements in disordered materials has seen intense activity spanning several decades. This article attempts to convey a concise overview of our contribution to this field over the period from 2005 to 2010 and to place it in its broad context.
Short and Medium Range Order in Ion-Conducting Glasses Studied by Modern Solid State NMR Techniques
Authors: Eckert Hellmut
Published: November 2010

Glassy ionic conductors have attained considerable importance in the solid state battery technology field. To understand the influence of composition on ionic mobility and transport, information about the local and dynamic environments of the mobile ions in glasses is required. Solid state NMR spectroscopy is one of the most powerful tools for addressing these questions. Our research effort in this area comprises (1) the development of efficient techniques and strategies for the study of disordered materials, (2) the detailed application of optimized measurement and data analysis protocols to different glass systems under systematic compositional variation, and (3) the comprehensive interpretation of the results obtained in the overall literature context. This article attempts to convey a concise overview of our contribution to this field over the period from 2004 to 2010, to describe the most significant insights obtained and to place them into the overall field of Solid State Ionics.
Silver(I)-(poly)chalcogenide Halides – Ion and Electron High Potentials
Authors: Nilges Tom , Bawohl M. , Osters O. , Lange S. , Messel J.
Published: November 2010

Materials with high dynamics in the solid state are of potential interest in semiconductor science and for a great variety of energy applications. In most of the cases the majority of physical properties of such compounds are directly related to their electronic structure. Optimization of properties is therefore correlated with direct or indirect control of this parameter. Compounds with highly mobile ions like the coinage metal cations and the heavy chalcogenide anions can easily be modified chemically or physically to fine tune their electronic structures. The range of adjustable properties lasts from ion conductivity, magneto resistance, thermoelectricity to a reversible redox-driven switch of semiconductivity. Today, the strong demand on clean energy production, the efficient energy transport and energy storage is a major goal for present and oncoming generations. Stable, mixed-conducting materials will play a major role in this process. The ongoing development of coinage metal chalcogenide halides during the last 50 years reflects the fundamental interest in this field. Many interesting and sometimes unexpected properties have been determined recently which substantiates the great potential of this class of materials. Especially the new class of coinage metal polychalcogenide halides is of potential interest due to their drastic modulations of physical properties driven by a fundamental tuning of its electronic structures. Thermopower and thermal diffusivity, two major properties to tune thermoelectricity can be varied in such a way that drastic changes can be addressed in very small temperature ranges close to room temperature. Herein we report on the recent progress of polychalcogenide and chalcogenide halides with the mobile d
10 ions Ag and Cu putting the main focus on silver compounds.
Oscillatory Behavior in the CO-oxidation over Bulk Ruthenium Dioxide — the Effect of the CO/O2 Ratio
Authors: Rosenthal Dirk , Girgsdies Frank , Timpe Olaf , Weinberg Gisela , Schlögl Robert
Published: November 2010

CO oxidation over polycrystalline ruthenium dioxide was monitored in an in-situ XRD setup. The evolution of the bulk state of the catalyst was followed by in-situ XRD during reaction, while the surface morphology and chemical state before and after reaction were investigated by HRSEM and EDX. The commercial RuO2 powder was calcined prior reaction to ensure the formation of completely oxidized RuO2. This pre-calcined RuO2 is initially inactive in CO oxidation regardless of the CO/O2 feed ratio and requires an induction period, the length of which strongly depends whether the catalyst is diluted with boron nitride or not. After this induction period oscillations in the CO2 yield occur under O2-rich conditions only. These oscillations exhibit two time constants for the diluted catalyst, while the low frequency oscillations were not observed in the case of undiluted RuO2. Furthermore, the state of the catalyst after activation in O2-rich feed conditions differs dramatically from the state after activation in CO-rich feed conditions. Firstly, the catalyst activated in an O2-rich atmosphere remains inactive under CO-rich conditions in contrast to the catalyst activated in CO-rich conditions which is afterwards active under all feed ratios examined. Secondly, the surface morphology of the catalyst is quite different. While the apical surfaces of the RuO2 crystals become roughened upon activation in the CO-rich feed, they become facetted under O2 rich activation conditions. Therefore, we conclude that at least two different active surface states on the bulk RuO2 catalyst exist.
Transport Studies of Some 1:1 Copper(I) Perchlorate Complexes in Acetonitrile-Dimethylsulphoxide Mixtures
Authors: Gill Dip Singh , Rana Dilbag Singh , Jauhar Surinder Pal
Published: November 2010

Solvation behaviour of some copper(I) perchlorate complexes has been investigated in binary mixtures of acetonitrile (AN) and dimethylsulphoxide (DMSO) containing 1.0, 0.8, 0.6, 0.4, 0.2 and 0 mol fraction of AN at 298 K by molar conductances and viscosity measurements. The conductance data have been analyzed by using the Shedlovsky method to calculate limiting molar conductance (Λ
o
) and the viscosity data by the Jones–Dole equation to evaluate viscosity B-coefficients of various salts. Limiting ion conductances (λ
i
o
), solvated radii (ri
) and ionic viscosity B
± coefficients in all solvent systems have been evaluated using Gill´s modification based on Bu4NBPh4 as a reference electrolyte. The studies show that all copper(I) complexes are solvated and the extent of solvation is stronger in AN and AN rich regions than in DMSO and DMSO rich regions. The ClO4
- ion is poorly solvated in AN+DMSO mixtures. The viscosity results are in good agreement with the results obtained from the conductance studies.
Atividade física e fatores associados em adolescentes do ensino médio de Curitiba, Brasil
Authors: Fermino Rogério César , Rech Cassiano Ricardo , Hino Adriano Akira Ferreira , Rodriguez Añez Ciro Romelio , Reis Rodrigo Siqueira
Published: November 2010

OBJETIVO: Estimar a prevalência de atividade física e identificar fatores associados em adolescentes. MÉTODOS: Estudo transversal realizado com amostra representativa (n = 1.518, 59,2% do sexo feminino) de escolares de 14-18 anos de idade da rede pública de ensino de Curitiba, PR, em 2006. A prática de atividade física foi auto-referida, em número de dias por semana em que realiza atividade de intensidade moderada a vigorosa com duração > 60 minutos. A prática foi analisada em dois modelos distintos. No primeiro, a variável foi dicotomizada em "0 dia" e "> 1 dia"; no segundo, em "< 4 dias" e "> 5 dias". As variáveis independentes foram: demográfico-biológicas (sexo, idade, índice de massa corporal); socioeconômicas (escolaridade dos pais, número de carros); comportamentais (horas assistindo TV, horas em frente ao computador); e socioculturais (apoio social da família e dos amigos, e a percepção de barreiras para a prática de atividades) testadas em regressão de Poisson. RESULTADOS: No primeiro modelo de análise, a prevalência de atividade física foi de 58,2% (75,1% do sexo masculino e 46,5% do feminino; p < 0,001) e no segundo, de 14,5% (22,3% e 9,1%, respectivamente; p < 0,001). No primeiro modelo, as variáveis associadas à atividade física foram sexo masculino (RP = 1,63, IC95%: 1,48;1,78), apoio social da família (RP = 1,14, IC95%: 1,05;1,23), dos amigos (RP = 1,52, IC95%: 1,31;1,78) e elevada percepção de barreiras (RP = 0,54, IC95%: 0,46;0,62). No segundo modelo, apenas o sexo masculino (RP = 2,45, IC95%: 1,73;3,46) e a baixa percepção de barreiras (RP = 0,24, IC95%: 0,15;0,38) associaram-se à atividade física. CONCLUSÕES: Mais da metade dos adolescentes praticam atividade física em pelo menos um dia da semana, embora 14,5% atinjam as recomendações atuais. Níveis recomendados estão associados a menor número de fatores. Gênero e percepção de barreiras apresentam relação consistente com os níveis de atividade física.
Renda familiar, preço de alimentos e aquisição domiciliar de frutas e hortaliças no Brasil
Authors: Claro Rafael Moreira , Monteiro Carlos Augusto
Published: November 2010

OBJETIVO: Analisar a influência da renda familiar e do preço de alimentos sobre a participação de frutas e hortaliças dentre os alimentos adquiridos pelas famílias brasileiras. MÉTODOS: Foram utilizados dados da Pesquisa de Orçamentos Familiares realizada pelo Instituto Brasileiro de Geografia e Estatística, com amostra probabilística de 48.470 domicílios brasileiros entre 2002 e 2003. A participação de frutas e hortaliças no total de aquisições de alimentos foi expressa como percentual do total de calorias adquiridas e como calorias provenientes desses alimentos ajustadas para o total de calorias adquirido. Empregaram-se técnicas de análise de regressão múltipla para estimação de coeficientes de elasticidade, controlando-se variáveis sociodemográficas e preço dos demais alimentos. RESULTADOS: Observou-se aumento da participação de frutas e hortaliças no total de aquisições de alimentos com a diminuição de seu próprio preço ou com o aumento da renda. A diminuição do preço de frutas e hortaliças em 1% aumentaria sua participação em 0,79% do total calórico; o aumento de 1% na renda familiar aumentaria essa participação no total calórico em 0,27%. O efeito da renda tendeu a ser menor nos estratos de maior renda. CONCLUSÕES: A redução do preço de frutas e hortaliças, tanto pelo apoio à cadeia de produção dos alimentos quanto por medidas fiscais, é um promissor instrumento de política pública capaz de aumentar a participação desses alimentos na dieta brasileira.
Perfil epidemiológico e genotípico da infecção pelo vírus da hepatite B no Norte de Portugal
Authors: Mota Ana , Guedes Fátima , Areias Jorge , Pinho Luciana , Cardoso Margarida Fonseca
Published: November 2010

OBJECTIVO: Descrever o perfil epidemiológico e genotípico da infecção crônica pelo vírus da hepatite B na Região Norte de Portugal. MÉTODOS: Foram incluídos 358 indivíduos oriundos das consultas de especialidade que apresentavam resultados positivos para o antígeno da hepatite B durante pelo menos seis meses em dois hospitais do Norte de Portugal em 2008 e 2009. Os dados foram obtidos a partir dos processos clínicos, determinações laboratoriais feitas quando da genotipagem do vírus, ecografia e/ou ultra-sonografia e biópsia hepática. As características demográficas, marcadores víricos, carga viral e genótipos, e severidade da doença hepática foram avaliadas e comparadas entre sexos. RESULTADOS: Os genótipos A e D predominaram. A transmissão intrafamiliar ocorreu predominantemente nas mulheres. Um terço das mulheres apresentava ingestão alcoólica superior a 20 g/dia, aumentando para 58,9% nos homens. A ausência do AgHBe foi semelhante nos dois sexos (p = 0,662). Os parâmetros bioquímicos em geral apresentaram-se com valores mais altos nos homens, assim como nos estágios necro-inflamatório e de esteatose hepática (p = 0,003). CONCLUSÕES: As diferenças relativas às vias de transmissão da infecção pelo vírus da hepatite B entre homens e mulheres podem ser conseqüência de comportamentos de risco associadas ao género. A ingestão excessiva de álcool é predominante nos indivíduos do sexo masculino, assim como maior severidade da doença hepática em relação às mulheres.
Perfil econômico da população de Ribeirão Preto: aplicação do Indicador Econômico Nacional
Authors: Freitas Isabel Cristina Martins de , Moraes Suzana Alves de
Published: November 2010

O objetivo do trabalho foi aplicar o Indicador Econômico Nacional em dados de estudo transversal de base populacional (n w = 2.197) no município de Ribeirão Preto, SP, em 2006. Na comparação com o Brasil, o indicador apresentou concentração nos cinco últimos decis e foi semelhante ao encontrado para o município de São Paulo, SP. Foram observadas diferenças em relação ao sexo do chefe da família, sendo mais desfavorável para domicílios chefiados por mulheres. A facilidade de cálculo e de aplicação, além da possibilidade de comparação com outras cidades do Brasil, confirmam esse indicador como uma ferramenta prática a ser aplicada em estudos de base populacional na avaliação do nível socioeconômico.
Decision support system for predicting tsunami characteristics along coastline areas based on database modelling development
Authors: Hadihardaja Iwan K. , Latief Hamzah , Mulia Iyan E.
Published: November 2010

Tsunamis are extraordinary occurrences that are difficult to identify; most of the incidents have no recorded predictions and tsunamis are generally infrequent events with poor data acquisition. The development of a tsunami database system has become important for improving the management of information with regard to a tsunami early warning system for vulnerable communities along coastline areas. Numerical modelling is usually employed to simulate the wave height and travel time of a wave arriving at a coastline area. However, numerical modelling for tsunami prediction is too time-consuming to be useful as an early warning system for the mitigation of tsunami-related damage and loss. Therefore, this model was used to develop a tsunami database system, based on hypothetical data, in order to develop a recognition pattern for a neural network learning process that will improve the speed and accuracy of tsunami prediction. To improve the accuracy of numerical modelling and observation, an adjustment was established for an advanced training process which used a generalised regression neural network. In other words, the training and testing datasets were obtained by correcting near-field tsunami numerical models from hypothetical earthquakes. The case study was performed on part of the Southern Pangandaran coastline in West Java, Indonesia.
Evaluation of precipitation forecasts from NOAA global forecast system in hydropower operation
Authors: Zhou Huicheng , Tang Guolei , Li Ningning , Wang Feng , Wang Yajun , Jian Deping
Published: November 2010

Forecasts of 10-day average inflow into the Ertan hydropower station of the Yalong river basin are needed for seasonal hydropower operation. Medium-range inflow forecasts have usually been obtained by Auto-Regressive-Moving-Average (ARMA) models, which do not utilize any precipitation forecasts. This paper presents a simple GFS-QPFs-based rainfall - runoff model (GRR) using the 10-day accumulated Quantitative Precipitation Forecasts from the Global Forecast System (GFS-QPFs) run at the American National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). In this study, 10-day accumulated GFS-QPFs over the Yalong river basin are verified by first using a three-category contingency table. Then this paper presents the results from a proposed hydrological model using 10-day accumulated GFS-QPFs. Results show that inflow forecast errors can be reduced considerably, compared with those from the currently used ARMA model by both quantitative and qualitative analysis. Finally, simulations of medium-range hydropower operation are also presented using the historical data and forecasts of 10-day average inflows into the Ertan dam during May to September 2006 to evaluate the efficiency of the proposed hydrological model using the GFS-QPFs. The simulations demonstrate that the use of GFS-QPFs has improved reservoir inflow predictions and hydropower operation of the Ertan hydropower station in the Yalong river basin during the wet season.
Understanding and forecasting hypoxia using machine learning algorithms
Authors: Coopersmith Evan Joseph , Minsker Barbara , Montagna Paul
Published: November 2010

This study's primary objective lies in short-term forecasting of where and when hypoxia may transpire to enable observing its effects in real time, focusing on a case study in Corpus Christi Bay (Texas). Dissolved oxygen levels in this bay can be characterized by three temporal trends (daily, seasonal, and long-term). To predict hypoxic events, these three mathematical trends are isolated and extracted to obtain unbiased forecasts using a sequential normalization approach. Next, machine learning algorithms are constructed employing the continuous, normalized values from a variety of sensor locations. By including latitude and longitude coordinates as additional variables, a spatial depiction of hypoxic conditions can be illustrated effectively, allowing for more efficient summer data collection and more accurate, near-real-time projections. Using k-nearest neighbor and regression tree algorithms, approximate probabilities of observing hypoxia the following day were calculated, and estimates of dissolved oxygen levels were also computed. During periods in which hypoxia was observed, forecast probabilities of hypoxia exceeded 80%. Conversely, during periods in which no hypoxia was observed, the model's estimate remained below 20%. These results indicate that the modeling approach produces reasonable forecasts for this case study.
Daily river flow forecasting using wavelet ANN hybrid models
Authors: Pramanik Niranjan , Panda Rabindra K. , Singh Adarsh
Published: November 2010

Advance time step stream flow forecasting is of paramount importance in controlling flood damage. During the past few decades, artificial neural network (ANN) techniques have been used extensively in stream flow forecasting and have proven to be a better technique than other forecasting methods such as multiple regression and general transfer function models. This study uses discrete wavelet transformation functions to preprocess the time series of the flow data into wavelet coefficients of different frequency bands. Effective wavelet coefficients are selected from the correlation analysis of the decomposed wavelet coefficients of all frequency bands with the observed flow data. Neural network models are proposed for 1-, 2- and 3-day flow forecasting at a site of Brahmani River, India. The effective wavelet coefficients are used as input to the neural network models. Both the wavelet and ANN techniques are employed to form a loose type of wavelet ANN hybrid model (NW). The hybrid models are trained using Levenberg–Marquart (LM) algorithm and the results are compared with simple ANN models. The results revealed that the predictabilities of NW models are significantly superior to conventional ANN models. The peak flow conditions are predicted with better accuracy using NW models than compared to ANN models.
Hydrologic forecasting using artificial neural networks: a Bayesian sequential Monte Carlo approach
Authors: Hsu Kuo-Lin
Published: November 2010

Sequential Monte Carlo (SMC) methods are known to be very effective for the state and parameter estimation of nonlinear and non-Gaussian systems. In this study, SMC is applied to the parameter estimation of an artificial neural network (ANN) model for streamflow prediction of a watershed. Through SMC simulation, the probability distribution of model parameters and streamflow estimation is calculated. The results also showed the SMC approach is capable of providing reliable streamflow prediction under limited available observations.
Optimizing multi-reservoir operation rules: an improved HBMO approach
Authors: Afshar Abbas , Shafii Mahyar , Haddad Omid Bozorg
Published: November 2010

We present an improved version of Honey Bees Mating Optimization (HBMO) algorithm to develop operating rules for multi-reservoir systems. The performance of the proposed model is tested through sensitivity analysis and comparing the result with those of a real-coded Genetic Algorithm (GA) for a 60-month period single-reservoir operation problem. The improved model is subsequently employed to derive release rule and storage balancing functions which form operating policy for a multi-reservoir system along two case examples: (i) water supply and (ii) hydropower generation. The obtained operating rule curves can be used to guide the system operators in decision-making. These rule curves provide the operator with the opportunity to systematically look at the system and to make proper decisions. The obtained results showed that the optimization technique proposed in this study is capable of solving complex multi-reservoir systems operation problems. Moreover, the proposed structure properly handled the tight constraints defining the parallel reservoirs operation in such a way that all the generated solutions were feasible after a particular set of iterations. The proposed optimization algorithm of this study can be developed more in future to solve multi-modal optimization problems, and also to define operation policies for highly complex multi-reservoir systems.
European Citizenship and European Union Expansion: Perspectives on Europeanness and Citizenship Education from Britain and Turkey
Authors: Wilkins Chris , Busher Hugh , Lawson Tony , Acun Ismail , Göz Nur Leman
Published: November 2010

This article discusses some perspectives on citizenship education in Turkey and Britain in the context of current contested discourses on the nature of European identity and of the European Union (EU). It is based on data collected during an EU-funded student teacher exchange programme between three universities in Turkey and Leicester University in the United Kingdom. The programme facilitated participants' investigations of their understandings of citizenship and citizenship education in Britain and Turkey. Data was collected by questionnaire from 581 Turkish student teachers and 85 British student teachers involved with citizenship education and, during the exchange visits, through focus group interviews with 14 British and 14 Turkish students. Both groups thought citizenship education was key to creating ‘good citizens' in their countries, but the nature of this citizenship was perceived to differ between countries. The Turkish students placed a strong emphasis on national identity and Turkish citizenship, whilst the British students focused more on democracy, social justice, global citizenship and human rights. Students from both countries questioned the efficacy of the pedagogical approaches that they observed during school visits in each other's countries.
The clinical impact of fetal magnetic resonance imaging on management of CNS anomalies in the second trimester of pregnancy
Authors: Amini Hashem , Axelsson Ove , Raiend Marie , Wikström Johan
Published: November 2010

Objectives. To evaluate the additional information of second trimester magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) compared to ultrasound in fetuses with identified or suspected central nervous system (CNS) anomalies and to study the clinical impact of the information on pregnancy management. Design. Prospective study during 2004–2007. The fetal MRI examination was planned to be performed within 3 days after the ultrasound. Setting. Uppsala University hospital. Material. Twenty‐nine pregnant women in whom second trimester ultrasound identified or suspected fetal CNS anomalies. Main outcome measures. Evaluation of the additional information gained from MRI and the consequence it had on pregnancy management. Results. The mean interval between ultrasound and MRI was 1.6 days (range 0–7). In 16 fetuses (55%), MRI verified the ultrasound diagnosis but provided no additional information, while in 10 (35%) MRI gave additional information without changing the management. In 3 (10%), MRI provided additional information that changed the management of the pregnancy. Two of these women were obese. Conclusions. Fetal MRI in the second trimester might be a clinically valuable adjunct to ultrasound for the evaluation of CNS anomalies, especially when ultrasound is inconclusive due to maternal obesity.
Psychological Distress is Associated with Tobacco Smoking and Quitting Behaviour in the Australian Population: Evidence from National Cross-Sectional Surveys
Authors: Leung Janni , Gartner Coral , Dobson Annette , Lucke Jayne , Hall Wayne
Published: November 2010

Objective: To investigate the association between levels of psychological distress and smoking and quitting behaviours.

Method: Data were from two large Australian national household surveys of individuals over 20 years of age. Level of psychological distress was measured by the Kessler 10 scale. Tobacco smoking measures included current smoking status (never, former, current); ex-smokers’ time since quitting; current smokers’ abstinent period in the last 12 months, cigarettes smoked per day, reasons for smoking, and self-report of factors that would motivate quitting; and self-report of factors that motivated smokers to quit in the last 12 months. Multinomial logistic regression was used to assess the relationships between smoking behaviours and psychological distress, while controlling for socio-demographic factors.

Results: Current smokers, especially those who smoke more cigarettes per day and those who report less success at quitting or reducing smoking, had higher levels of psychological distress. Ex-smokers were also more likely to experience psychological distress than those who never smoked, but the association weakened with more years since quitting. Current smokers with psychological distress were just as, or more likely, to report planning to quit as those without psychological distress. Smokers who did not plan to quit due to addiction, past failure at quitting, and using smoking for relaxation or to deal with stress were more likely to report psychological distress than those who did not report these reasons.

Conclusions: Current smoking and unsuccessful quit attempts in the Australian community were strongly associated with symptoms of psychological distress. Quitting aspirations and influence from general public health interventions were not associated with the smokers’ level of psychological distress.
Race and physical anthropology in interwar Austria
Authors: Berner Margit
Published: November 2010

This article focuses on interwar Austrian physical anthropology, tracing its scientific aspirations, gradual institutionalization, and wider popularization during the interwar period. Largely concentrated in Vienna, Austrian physical anthropologists debated racial questions extensively and conducted racial evaluations based on detailed morphological studies and in-depth analysis of facial "racial" traits. This method was considered ideal for genealogical studies. A host of new societies and working groups collaborated to develop new methodologies and create influential links to universities and public institutions. Within this context, a certificate or "proof of paternity" was developed to resolve disputed court cases. Not only did issuing these certificates become a key source of work and income for anthropologists and their organizations, they also marked the discipline's crucial shift from a theoretical to an applied science.
Entangled traditions of race
Authors: Turda Marius
Published: November 2010

This article discusses the relationship between race and physical anthropology in Hungary and Romania between 1900 and 1940. It begins by looking at institutional developments in both countries and how these influenced the most important Hungarian and Romanian anthropologists' professional and research agendas. Drawing from a wide range of primary sources, the article reveals the significant role the concept of race played in articulating anthropological and ethnic narratives of national belonging. It is necessary to understand the appeal of the idea of race in this context. With idealized images of national communities and racial hierarchies creeping back into Eastern European popular culture and politics, one needs to understand the latent and often unrecognized legacies of race in shaping not only scientific disciplines like anthropology, but also the emergence and entrancement of modern Hungarian and Romanian nationalism.
Effect of PLRV infected seed tuber on disease incidence, plant growth and yield parameters of potato
Authors: Rahman MS , Akanda AM
Published: November 2010

An investigation was conducted to find out the effect of PLRV infected seed tubers on disease incidence, plant growth, and tuber yield of potato. The levels of PLRV infected seed tubers were 0, 10, 20, 33, and 100%. Presence of PLRV infected tubers at 20% and higher rate caused significant increase in disease incidence and reduction in plant height, stem number, tuber number, and tuber yield as compared to that in control. Incidence of PLRV in the experimental fields, reduction in plant height, stem number, tuber number, and tuber weight per hill was positively and linearly correlated with levels of their inoculum. Spraying of Nimbicidine against insect vector did not show significant influence on plant growth and tuber yield.Keywords: Inoculum levels; disease incidence; PLRV; insecticide; growth and yield performance; potato.DOI: 10.3329/bjar.v35i3.6441Bangladesh J. Agril. Res.35(3) : 359-366
Morphological and pathogenic variations in the isolates of Rhizoctonia solani in Bangladesh
Authors: Goswami BK , Bhuiyan KA , Mian IH
Published: November 2010

Rhizoctonia solani isolates were collected from soil of different agro-ecological zones of Bangladesh and also from infected plant parts of different crops and grasses. Collected isolates were classified into five different cluster groups on the basis of morphological and cultural characters. Five isolates taking one from each of the five different cluster groups were selected to study their pathogenicity and host range on 35 different crops. Pathogenicity and host range of the isolates were determined by planting the seeds in water agar plate infested with R. solani isolates and incubated at 25°C temperatures. After analyzing the morphological and cultural characters of the isolates, it was found that there was no relations between the isolates with respect to their origin from where they were collected. It indicated that the diversity among the isolates was not correlated with their origin. In case of host range and pathogenicity among the five selected isolates of different cluster groups, the isolate JES-16 was an avirulent isolate. The isolate SYL-30 had narrow host range and a low virulent isolate. The isolates DIN-8 and GAZ-18 possessed wide host range and might be considered as virulent isolates. The isolate GAZ-9 was a highly virulent isolate with a wide host range. Keywords: Rhizoctonia solani; morphological and pathogenic variations; isolates. DOI: 10.3329/bjar.v35i3.6443Bangladesh J. Agril. Res. 35(3) : 375-380
In vitro regeneration through callus in pointed gourd (Trichosanthes dioica Roxb.)
Authors: Malek MA , Mannan MA , Khanam D , Molla MH , Khatun M
Published: November 2010

An efficient protocol was developed for in vitro plant regeneration and multiplication through callus culture in pointed gourd. Among the explants, highest percentage of cotyledon explants (92.00%) produced callus when this explant cultured in MS medium supplemented with NAA (0.1, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0 mg/l) and 2, 4-D (0.1, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0 mg/l). The highest number of shoots per explant was observed in MS + 0.5 mg/l BAP + 0.5 mg/l NAA followed by 1.0 mg/l BAP + 0.5 mg/l NAA when inter-node derived callus cultured in MS medium. Among the explants derived calli from leaf, inter-node and cotyledon in in vitro regeneration study, inter-node appeared as the most suitable explant for callusing and plant regeneration. The best response towards root induction was achieved on half MS medium supplemented with 0.5 mg/l NAA. The regenerated plantlets were successfully established in prepared earthen soil pot. Keywords: In vitro regeneration; pointed gourd. DOI: 10.3329/bjar.v35i3.6453Bangladesh J. Agril. Res. 35(3) : 465-473
Cardiac Drugs Requirement during Off-Pump Coronary Artery Bypass (OPCAB) Surgery- A Comparison between Combined High Thoracic Epidural Anaesthesia (HTEA) with GA and GA Alone
Authors: Azad SI , Beg AK , Chowdhury AYFE
Published: November 2010

Background: During off pump coronary artery bypass surgery (OPCAB) to provide adequate myocardial protection cardiac anaesthesiologist frequently needs to use various pharmacological intervention rather than physiological manipulation. This is challenging to overcome the adverse effects of the various drugs. During the past few years, high thoracic epidural anaesthesia (HTEA) as an adjunct to general anaesthesia has become more popular and has been shown to be potentially beneficial in patients with coronary diseases. It provides good protection from stress response, ensures hemodynamic stability, improves distribution of coronary blood flow and reduce demand for oxygen and perioperative arrhythmia. Objective: This study has been undertaken with a view to compare the requirement of intraoperative cardiac drugs between HTEA with General Anaesthesia(GA) and GA alone. Methods: Prospective, randomized case control study was undertaken in sixty patients, without having left main coronary disease, left ventreicular ejection fraction <35% or contraindication of regional anaesthesia scheduled for OPCAB. They were divided into two groups, thirty in each group. Group A patients received GA alone and group B patients received high thoracic epidural anaesthesia with GA. Requirement of drugs (antiarrhythmic, inotropes, vasoconstrictor, vasodilators,Esmolol e.g.) during operation were recorded. Results: Dopamine was needed in 27(90.0%)patients in group A and 11(36.7%) patients in group B, adrenaline was used in 15(50.0%)patients in group A and 4(13.3%) in group B; Dobutamine was used only in 5(15.0%) patients in group A and ephedrine was required only in 2(5.0%) in group B. Regarding the Antiarrhythmic drugs, Lignocanie, Amiodarone and DC Shock was required only in 17(55.0%), 12(40.0%) and 5(15.0%) patients respectively only in group A. In vasodilators group, Nitropruside was used in 5(15.0%) and 1(3.3%) patients in group A and group B respectively. Esmolol was used in 17(55.0%) patients in group A and 1(3.3%) in group B. Significant (p<0.05) difference were found in use of all drugs between two groups except Ephedrine and Nitropruside. Conclusion: The anaesthetic technique HTEA with GA required minimum intra operative cardiac drugs than GA only. Key words: Cardiac drug; HTEA; General Anaesthesia; OPCAB. DOI: 10.3329/cardio.v3i1.6420Cardiovasc. j. 2010; 3(1): 7-10
Cardiac Stem Cell Therapy: An Overview
Authors: Islam AKMM , Majumder AAS , Doza F , Rahman MM , Jesmin H
Published: November 2010

Cardiovascular diseases are the major causes of mortality and morbidity throughout the world. Treatment of these diseases is often incomplete, suboptimal and far from permanent cure. One of the reasons behind this is the nature of heart as a terminally differentiated organ. Preclinical and clinical research in the last few decades has put a challenge to this conventional belief regarding the inability of regeneration of the cardiomyocytes. Embryonic, foetal and a wide range of adult stem cells have been used so far. Differentiation of adult somatic cells has lead to breakthrough discovery of induced pleuripotent stem cells which may be a potential solution of controversy over embryonic stem cell issue. Stem cells specially those of bone marrow origin are already being used in a limited scale to treat acute myocardial infarction, chronic myocardial ischaemia and cardiomyopathy with efficacy, feasibility and safety. Mesenchymal stem cells and adult cardiac stem cells are on the way to bedside use. skeletal myoblasts have been associated with life-threatening ventricular arrhythmia. Stem cells combined with tissue engineering have produced prosthetic tissue valves, and hope for manufacturing whole heart ex vivo in near future. However, like other rapidly evolving modalities, there are more questions than answers. Exact indications, patient selection, cell selection, timing of therapy, efficacy of repeated therapies, co-administration of growth factors, and genetic modification of stem cells are yet to be determined with precision. International community is coming forward with enthusiasm and vigor to explore the enormous potential of stem cell therapy and regenerative medicine. Future research will hopefully facilitate more versatile application of stem cells in treating the life-threatening and disabling ailments of mankind. Keywords: Stem cell; regenerative medicine DOI: 10.3329/cardio.v3i1.6429Cardiovasc. j. 2010; 3(1): 66-80
Thromboembolic Occlusion of Left Bracheal artery Protein-C and Protein-S Deficiency - A Case Report
Authors: Kibria MG , Hossain GMM , Anisuzzaman M , Haque MZ , Haque KN , Azad QA
Published: November 2010

Protein-C and Protein-S deficiency states are responsible for 3-5% (Protein-C) and 2-3% (Protein-S) of patients with venous thrombosis. Some cases of arterial thrombosis have been reported. It occurs twice as often in female as in males. A 50 years old lady presented with acute severe pain in the left upper limb for 2 days. On investigation she was diagnosed as a case of bracheal artery thrombosis with Protein-C & Protein-S deficiency. Bracheal thromboembolectomy was done and discharge her with life long warfarin therapy. In one year follow up the patient had no untoward event and INR done every month and warfarin is adjusted. Keywords: Arterial thromboembolism; Protein-C and Protein-S deficiency. DOI: 10.3329/cardio.v3i1.6433Cardiovasc. j. 2010; 3(1): 92-93
Total Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Connection (TAPVC) (Supra cardiac type) - A Case Study
Authors: Hassan MK , Hasan KA , Ahmed F , Rahim A , Quader SA , Ullah M , Khan JH , Salam A , Mahmood KN
Published: November 2010

Repair of Total Pulmonary venous connection (TAPVC) continues to be associated to significant mortality and morbidity.We here reported a female patient of two and half years, underwent rechanneling of supracardiac TAPVC, diagnosis was suggested by Echocardiography and confirmed by catheter-angiography which allowed definition of the anatomy. The patient has got fluent pulmonary venous drainage and her heart function resumed to NYHA I. TAPVC should be operated on immediately at definite diagnosis, the fluency of common pulmonary vein-left atrium anastomosis and proper post operative care can ensure a satisfactory outcome. Key words: Total anomalous pulmonary venous connection (TAPVC); Pulmonary artery hypertension. DOI: 10.3329/cardio.v3i1.6437Cardiovasc. j. 2010; 3(1): 104-106
Radiofrequency Ablation: A Minimally Invasive Approach in Kidney Tumor Management
Authors: Salagierski Maciej , Salagierski Marek S.
Published: November 2010

The management and diagnosis of renal tumors have changed significantly over the last decade. Due to advances in imaging techniques, more than 50% of kidney tumors are discovered incidentally and many of them represent an early stage lesion. This has stimulated the development of nephron-sparing surgery and of the minimally invasive treatment options including ablative techniques, i.e., radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and cryoablation. The objective of the minimally invasive approach is to preserve the renal function and to lower the perioperative morbidity. RFA involves inducing the coagulative necrosis of tumor tissue. Being probably one of the least invasive procedures in kidney tumor management, RFA may be performed percutaneously under ultrasound (US), computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance (MR) guidance. Most of the studies show that the RFA procedure is efficient, safe and has a low complication rate. Due to the still limited data on the oncological outcome of RFA, the indication for this intervention remains limited to selected patients with small organ-confined renal tumors and contraindication to surgery or who have a solitary kidney. The aim of our study is to review the literature on RFA of kidney tumors.