bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mensuração do ângulo articular do cotovelo no teste de tensão neural em indivíduos com hanseníase
Authors: Scheibe Débora , Oliveira Jaqueline Francieli Pacheco de , Gonçalves Sibelly Blum , Gomes Anna Raquel Silveira , Macedo Ana Carolina Brandt de
Published: August 2012

A hanseníase é uma patologia crônica e granulomatosa, que atinge a pele e o sistema nervoso periférico pela invasão no sistema imune do Mycobacterium leprae. O objetivo deste estudo foi mensurar o ângulo articular do cotovelo com a aplicação do teste de tensão neural do nervo ulnar em pacientes com hanseníase. Na aplicação do teste de tensão neural, foram utilizadas a goniometria e a fotometria para a mensuração do ângulo articular do cotovelo, sendo que para a realização da fotometria foi utilizada uma câmera Samsung de 12.1 Mega pixels, e os dados foram analisados pelo software Corel Draw X5 (Microsoft®). Foram selecionados 44 indivíduos da Fundação Pró-Hansen, com média de idade de 48,13±12,55 anos, divididos em três grupos: G1, G2 e G3. O G1 compreende voluntários com hanseníase e sensibilidade preservada; o G2, aqueles com hanseníase e com perda de sensibilidade; e o G3, o controle. Na goniometria, foi encontrada diferença significativa (p<0,05) na comparação dos grupos G1 e G2 com o controle tanto do membro direito quanto esquerdo, porém não foi encontrada diferença na comparação entre os dois grupos com hanseníase. Na fotometria, houve diferença entre G2 e o controle bilateralmente e entre o G1 e o controle no lado esquerdo. Comparando-se o lado direito e esquerdo, não foi encontrada diferença em nenhum grupo. Os pacientes com hanseníase apresentaram diminuição da ADM de flexão de cotovelo no teste de tensão neural do ulnar em ambos os lados quando comparados ao grupo controle.
Inibição muscular dos extensores do joelho em sujeitos acometidos por condromalácia patelar e osteoartrite do joelho - um estudo de revisão sistemática
Authors: Pompeo Klauber Dalcero , Mello Mônica de Oliveira , Vaz Marco Aurélio
Published: August 2012

A inibição muscular (IM) tem sido reportada como um dos fatores associados à fraqueza muscular presente na osteoartrite (OA) e condromalácia patelar (CP), sendo inclusive associada com a etiologia e a progressão. Entretanto, parece existir uma lacuna na literatura em relação a estudos de revisão que avaliaram o grau de IM de sujeitos acometidos por CP e OA. O objetivo do estudo foi reunir os resultados de estudos que investigaram o grau de IM na OA e CP e identificar possíveis diferenças na IM que estejam associadas aos estágios do processo degenerativo. Foram incluídos nesta revisão sistemática estudos transversais e/ou experimentais publicados nas bases de dados PubMed, Scopus, SciELO e Cochrane entre 1990 e 2010 que avaliaram a IM por meio da técnica de interpolação de abalo publicados. Os dados referentes à população, protocolo de IM, qualidade dos estudos e resultados de IM foram sumariados e apresentados em Tabelas. Para análise da qualidade, utilizou-se a escala de PEDro. Após a aplicação dos critérios de inclusão, 13 artigos foram incluídos na revisão sistemática (OA=9 e CP=4). A partir da análise dos dados, observou-se uma IM maior na CP em comparação à OA. Contudo, a variabilidade metodológica e a falta de informações sobre os protocolos de IM indicam a necessidade de novos estudos experimentais a fim de que se possa determinar com maior precisão a relação entre a IM e as doenças degenerativas articulares.
"To ELF or not to ELF?" (English as a Lingua Franca): that's the question for Applied Linguistics in a globalized world
Authors: Schmitz John Robert
Published: August 2012

The realization that there are today more nonnative speakers than native speakers of English in the world with institutionalized and nativized varieties as well as their own specific communicative, cultural and pragmatic competencies has led to the rethinking of present-day practices in teaching, teacher preparation, and the writing of textbooks. Jenkins' publications (2000, 2003) dealing with the phonology of English and material for teaching English as an international language along with her book English as a Lingua Franca (ELF) (2007) call for the disengagement of the language from Anglo-American native speaker norms. This line of research presents serious questions for Applied Linguistics (AL) and English Language Teaching (ELT) that will, if implemented, entail major changes in that endeavor. The winds of change may indeed be beneficial for some and a threat to others. I argue in this paper for an open mindset with respect to the issues and to the new state of affairs in this globalized world today.
Globalization and language policies of multilingual societies: some case studies of south east Asia
Authors: Singh Navin Kumar , Zhang Shaoan , Besmel Parwez
Published: August 2012

Over the past few decades, significant economic and political changes have taken place around the world. These changes also have put a significant mark on language teaching and learning practices across the globe. There is a clear movement towards multilingual practices in the world, which is also evident in the title of UNESCO 2003 education position paper, "Education in a multilingual world." Given the long-standing history of multilingual contexts of the Himalayan region and the emergence of the two major global economic power centers of 21st century, China and India, language policies and practices of the region have become a great matter of interests for linguists and policy makers around the world. This paper uses case studies to investigate how globalization influences language education policies and practices in multilingual countries. The case studies that we have drawn from the four nations of South East Asia - Afghanistan, China, India, and Nepal offer insights for other multilingual nations of the world, as they portray the influences of globalization on language policies and practices of multilingual countries. This paper suggests more research on comparative studies of multilingual education across multilingual nations in the world.
Variable impact of Malaysia's national language planning on non-Malay speakers in Sarawak
Authors: Ting Su-Hie
Published: August 2012

The study examined the impact of the national language policy on the language use of three main ethnic groups in the Malaysian state of Sarawak. The data analyzed was based on a sociolinguistic survey on language use in six domains that involved 937 Malay, Chinese and Iban adolescents from three major towns in Sarawak. The results showed that the use of Bahasa Malaysia exceeded English usage for all three ethnic groups, showing the success of compulsory education in the national language. However, the language planning has greater impact on the Iban than on the Chinese who are shifting away from the ethnic languages of the Chinese sub-groups to Mandarin Chinese. The availability of an alternative standard language with international standing which also functions as a symbol of cultural solidarity compromises the impact of the national language policy.
The grass is always greener on the other side: Triplectides Kolenati, 1859 (Leptoceridae) and Marilia Müller, 1880 (Odontoceridae) occupying cases of other Trichoptera species
Authors: Camargos Lucas Marques de , Pes Ana Maria Oliveira
Published: August 2012

AIM: Larvae of Triplectides spp. and Marilia sp. occupying cases of other species are recorded and photographed; METHODS: The material was collected in different sites and dates in Atlantic Forest and Central Amazon regions; RESULTS: The Triplectides larvae seem to have an opportunistic behavior, occupying a great variety of cases, which reflects their common habit of enter in hollow twigs instead of build complex cases. However, this behavior is not frequently recorded in Marilia larvae, and we believe that the difference on the roughness of the interior walls, as well as the difference of the color of the material of the cases limit the opportunistic behavior in this genus; CONCLUSIONS: Experimental studies with different species can help the understanding of this behavior in the light of adaptive values.
Prognostic Significance of TOP2A Gene Dosage in HER-2-Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Żaczek Anna J. , Markiewicz Aleksandra , Seroczyńska Barbara , Skokowski Jarosław , Jaśkiewicz Janusz , Pieńkowski Tadeusz , Olszewski Wojciech P. , Szade Jolanta , Rhone Piotr , Wełnicka-Jaśkiewicz Marzena , Jassem Jacek
Published: August 2012

Learning Objectives

After completing this course, the reader will be able to: Describe the prognostic role of TOP2A gene dosage determined by quantitative PCR in HER-2-negative breast cancer.Describe the relationship between HER-2 status and TOP2A status in breast cancer tumors.Gain greater understanding of methods used for TOP2A status determination, including the advantages of quantitative PCR.

CME This article is available for continuing medical education credit at CME.TheOncologist.com

Background.

Previous studies showed the prognostic and predictive impact of human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER-2) gene alterations analyzed separately and jointly with topoisomerase II α (TOP2A) gene alterations; however, the role of TOP2A gene abnormalities alone has not been thoroughly investigated. Additionally, TOP2A aberrations were typically studied in HER-2-positive (HER-2+) tumors because these genes are frequently coamplified. Therefore, the knowledge concerning the impact of TOP2A abnormalities in HER-2-negative (HER-2−) patients is scarce. This study aimed to investigate the clinical significance of TOP2A anomalies in breast cancer patients with HER-2− and HER-2+ tumors.

Materials and Methods.

Snap-frozen tumor samples from 322 consecutive stage I–III breast cancer patients were analyzed for TOP2A gene dosage using quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR).

Results.

A high TOP2A gene dosage was found in 94 tumors (29%)—32% and 27% of HER-2+ and HER-2− tumors, respectively. The mean TOP2A gene dosages in the HER-2+ and HER-2− groups were 1.49 ± 1.03 and 1.09 ± 0.35, respectively. High TOP2A gene dosage had an inverse prognostic impact in terms of shorter disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) times in the entire group and in both the HER-2− and HER-2+ subgroups. The unfavorable prognostic impact of TOP2A gene dosage was maintained in the multivariate Cox regression analysis in the entire group and in HER-2− patients.

Conclusions.

A high gene dosage of TOP2A determined using qPCR occurs frequently both in HER-2+ and HER-2− tumors and has a strong adverse prognostic impact.
Change of Periodontal Disease Status During and After Pregnancy
Authors: Xie Yiqiong , Xiong Xu , Elkind‐Hirsch Karen E. , Pridjian Gabriella , Maney Pooja , Delarosa Robert L. , Buekens Pierre
Published: August 2012

Background: This study explored whether there is any change of periodontal disease status during and after pregnancy. We also examined whether the change is different between females with a history of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and females without GDM during pregnancy.

Methods: A follow‐up study was conducted at Woman's Hospital, Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Thirty‐nine females who were previously enrolled in a case‐control study during pregnancy were followed an average of 22 months postpartum. Periodontal status was assessed through dental examinations performed both during and after pregnancy. Clinical periodontal parameters included bleeding on probing (BOP), mean probing depth (PD), and mean clinical attachment level (CAL). Periodontitis was defined as the presence of ≥1 sites exhibiting PD ≥4 mm or CAL ≥4 mm. We used generalized estimating equation analysis to examine the change of periodontal status.

Results: Mean number and percentage of sites with BOP decreased from 10.7 ± 11.6 (mean ± SD) and 6.5% ± 7.0% during pregnancy to 7.1 ± 8.8 and 4.3% ± 5.3% at 22 months postpartum (P <0.05), respectively. Mean levels of PD and CAL decreased from 1.8 ± 0.4 mm and 1.9 ± 0.3 mm to 1.6 ± 0.3 mm and 1.6 ± 0.3 mm (P <0.01), respectively. The prevalence of periodontitis decreased from 66.7% to 33.3% (P <0.01, adjusted risk ratio = 2.1, 95% confidence interval = 1.3 to 3.4). There was no difference in the change of periodontal status between females with GDM and females without GDM during pregnancy.

Conclusions: Pregnancy may be associated with an increased risk of periodontal disease. The association is not different between females with GDM and females without GDM during pregnancy.
Ten‐Year Results Following Treatment of Intrabony Defects With an Enamel Matrix Protein Derivative Combined With Either a Natural Bone Mineral or a β‐Tricalcium Phosphate
Authors: Döri Ferenc , Arweiler Nicole B. , Szántó Erika , Ágics Anikó , Gera István , Sculean Anton
Published: August 2012

Background: The purpose of the present study is to evaluate the 10‐year results following treatment of intrabony defects treated with an enamel matrix protein derivative (EMD) combined with either a natural bone mineral (NBM) or β‐tricalcium phosphate (β‐TCP).

Methods: Twenty‐two patients with advanced chronic periodontitis and displaying one deep intrabony defect were randomly treated with a combination of either EMD + NBM or EMD + β‐TCP. Clinical evaluations were performed at baseline and at 1 and 10 years. The following parameters were evaluated: plaque index, bleeding on probing, probing depth, gingival recession, and clinical attachment level (CAL). The primary outcome variable was CAL.

Results: The defects treated with EMD + NBM demonstrated a mean CAL change from 8.9 ± 1.5 mm to 5.3 ± 0.9 mm (P <0.001) and to 5.8 ± 1.1 mm (P <0.001) at 1 and 10 years, respectively. The sites treated with EMD + β‐TCP showed a mean CAL change from 9.1 ± 1.6 mm to 5.4 ± 1.1 mm (P <0.001) at 1 year and 6.1 ± 1.4 mm (P <0.001) at 10 years. At 10 years two defects in the EMD + NBM group had lost 2 mm, whereas two other defects had lost 1 mm of the CAL gained at 1 year. In the EMD + β‐TCP group three defects had lost 2 mm, whereas two other defects had lost 1 mm of the CAL gained at 1 year. Compared with baseline, at 10 years, a CAL gain of ≥3 mm was measured in 64% (i.e., seven of 11) of the defects in the EMD + NBM group and in 82% (i.e., nine of 11) of the defects in the EMD + β‐TCP group. No statistically significant differences were found between the 1‐ and 10‐year values in either of the two groups. Between the treatment groups, no statistically significant differences in any of the investigated parameters were observed at 1 and 10 years.

Conclusion: Within their limitations, the present findings indicate that the clinical improvements obtained with regenerative surgery using EMD + NBM or EMD + β‐TCP can be maintained over a period of 10 years.
Metastatic malignant ovarian melanoma: A case report
Authors: Berisavac Milica , Kastratovic-Kotlica Biljana , Pilic Igor , Atanackovic Jasmina
Published: August 2012

Background. Malignant melanomas of the female reproductive system are rare.
These are biologically highly aggressive tumors with poor prognosis.
Preoperative establishment of the diagnosis is practically impossible.
Therapeutic approach and treatment of patients with metastatic ovarian
melanoma are highly dependent on precise histological analysis. Case report.
A woman aged 48 was admitted to the clinic for occasional pains in the lower
abdomen and suspected myomatous changes of the uterus. The patient underwent
surgery for melanoma on her right arm five years ago. Classic hysterectomy
with bilateral adnexectomy with infracolic omentectomy and selective iliac
lymphadenectomy were performed. Macroscopic examination revealed an oval
tumefaction on the left ovary sized 12.5 x 10 x 3.5 cm of solid structure.
Tumor tissue was yellowish-brown colored, of solid structure and mostly
localized subcortically with central edema. Microscopic examination showed
positive reaction for HMB-45, anti-Melan-A and S-100 protein, but negative
immunoreactivity for estrogen and progesterone receptors. Malignant disease
caused death after a 4-year follow-up period following gynecological
operation. Conclusion. The previous diagnosis of skin melanoma is also
indicative of metastatic ovarian tumor, while immunohistochemical analyses
confirmed the histopathological diagnosis.
Fluoxetine does not impair motor function in patients with Parkinson's disease: Correlation between mood and motor functions with plasma concentrations of fluoxetine/norfluoxetine
Authors: Kostic Vladimir , Dzoljic Eleonora , Todorovic Zoran , Mijajlovic Milija , Svetel Marina , Stefanova Elka , Dragasevic Natasa , Petrovic Igor , Milosevic Milenko , Kovacevic Ivan , Miljkovic Branislava , Pokrajac Milena , Prostran Milica
Published: August 2012

Background/Aim. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors are the most commonly
chosen antidepressants in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD). The aim of
our study was to assess the influence of fluoxetine (Flu) on motor functions
in patients with PD. Methods. In this prospective, controlled, open-label
study, 18 patients with PD and mild depression [(10 ? Hamilton Rating Scale
for Depression (HDRS) ? 23)] without dementia [(25 ? Mini-Mental State
Examination (MMSE)] were treated with Flu. Both single and repeated dose
effects of Flu were assessed on days 1-80. Plasma concentrations of Flu and
norfluoxetine (NORFlu) were correlated with the results of selected motor
function performance scores: The Unified Parkinsons Disease Rating Score
(UPDRS), Finger Tapping Test (FTT) and Purdue Pegboard Test (PPT). Severity
of PD, depression and dementia were evaluated using standard tests [(Hoehn
and Yahr stages (HY), activity of daily living (ADL), UPDRS, HDRS, MMSE)].
Results. Steady-state for Flu/NORFlu was reached after 18 days of treatment.
Such a plateau correlated with significant improvements in both scores of
depression and Parkinson's disability (HDRS, UPDRS and ADL, respectively). In
addition, FTT and PPT scores also increased until day 18, with further slight
fluctuations around the plateau. Optimal motor performances correlated with
Flu concentrations of approximately 60-110 ?g/L. Conclusion. Flu (20 mg/day)
significantly reduced depression in PD patients while it did not impair their
motor performances. Because substantial placebo effects may arise in studies
of PD and depression, large, prospective, randomized, placebo-controlled
clinical trials are warranted.
Teamwork to Enhance Adapted Teaching and Formative Assessment
Authors: Bjørnsrud Halvor , Engh Roar
Published: August 2012

This article has as its main focus the contextual factors connected with teachers' teamwork. Firstly, it deals with the question of how to create reflections among teachers on the topic of teamwork. Their written answers function as empirical data for researchers and also as contributions to the further professional development of teamwork. Secondly, the authors discuss the content of teamwork in the sense of how teachers as a community might support the individual teacher's work with both adapted teaching and formative assessment.
Self-Assessment of Schools and Teachers as a Road to Transforming Schools from Teaching to Learning Organisations
Authors: Franz Hans-Werner
Published: August 2012

This article explores the manner in which self-assessment in schools can play an integral role in the transformation of schools into learning organisations. The perspective adopted is based upon European experiences and describes and analyses the sociological constructs and bases supporting the process of transformation.
Assessment with Distinctly Defined Criteria: A Research Study of a National Project
Authors: Hopfenbeck Therese N. , Throndsen Inger , Lie Svein , Dale Erling Lars
Published: August 2012

This article explores changes in teachers' beliefs and practice concerning assessment after participating in a project for improving assessment practices in Norwegian schools. The project was initiated by the Norwegian Directorate for Education and Training in 2008, and included a total of 77 schools, more than 600 teachers and a sample of their students. The main idea was to develop formative assessment practices in the classroom in the form of distinct criteria for clarification of how to reach curriculum goals. Furthermore, the project intended to increase students' motivation by using such formative assessment practices. The data presented in this article is from the research evaluation of the project. So far, the main challenge seems to be how to develop assessment criteria and how to use them in practice.
Building Teacher Capacity within the Evolving Assessment Culture in Canadian Education
Authors: Klinger Don A. , Volante Louis , Deluca Christopher
Published: August 2012

Lost in the focus on large-scale educational assessments for accountability purposes is the important role of teachers' classroom assessment practices. Teachers must understand the use of both large-scale and classroom assessment practices and theories, and professional development remains the primary method to develop these assessment capacities. However, traditional models of professional development typically have little, if any, effect. In recognition of the importance of building teachers' assessment capacity, and the limitations of traditional professional development, the Elementary Teachers' Federation of Ontario, Canada, developed a Classroom Assessment Workshop Series to begin to build a systemic assessment framework for teachers. Through pre- and post-series surveys with 300 participants, and interviews and focus groups with facilitators, the authors' review and research explored the impact of the series on teachers' beliefs, self-efficacy, and knowledge of assessment practices and theory. The authors also explored the challenges that teachers experienced as they worked to understand and implement current conceptions of assessment. While teachers certainly valued the community created through the series and the opportunities to share their experiences, the findings found that teachers struggled to understand the theoretical foundations and use these foundations to further develop their own assessment practices. The research highlights the need for teachers to embrace a philosophy that integrates formative assessment practices and theories into their teaching and learning while also identifying the challenges associated with creating such an assessment culture. Current models of professional development may be more aligned with principles of effective professional learning, but truly changing teachers' classroom assessment practices may require a much more prolonged effort than those being provided.
Comparing Auditor versus Non-Auditor Assessments of Auditor Liability: An Experimental Investigation of Experts' versus Lay Evaluators' Judgments
Authors: Reffett Andrew , Brewster Billy E. , Ballou Brian
Published: August 2012

Critics of the legal system argue that the use of lay jurors to adjudicate auditor negligence claims results in non-meritorious decisions of auditor liability. Palmrose (2006) therefore proposes that the courts rely on panels of experienced auditors to evaluate the merits of auditor negligence claims and make recommendations to the courts. There is, however, scant evidence to indicate how auditors' and lay evaluators' judgments might differ in cases of alleged auditor negligence. Our study addresses this gap in the literature by providing theory and empirical evidence that elucidates several systematic differences between auditors' and lay evaluators' judgments. Results of an experiment indicate that auditor evaluators are less reliant on plaintiff losses as evidence than lay evaluators, but—consistent with social identity theory—experience greater empathy for auditor defendants. Consequently, auditor evaluators consistently provide lower assessments of auditor liability than lay evaluators, irrespective of audit quality. In addition, results of the experiment indicate that different legally irrelevant inputs primarily determine both auditor and lay evaluators' negligence verdicts—emotional reactions for auditor evaluators and plaintiff losses for lay evaluators. Finally, results are mixed as to whether auditor evaluators' judgments are more sensitive to varying levels of audit quality than lay evaluators' judgments.
Causal Inference in Auditing: A Framework
Authors: Srivastava Rajendra P. , Mock Theodore J. , Pincus Karen V. , Wright Arnold M.
Published: August 2012

Causal inference—that is, determining the “root cause(s)” of an observed anomaly—is one of the most fundamental audit tasks. This study develops an analytical framework to formally model conditions present in many audit settings, and provides illustrations related to performing substantive analytical procedures. We examine four conditions not fully considered in prior research: multiple hypotheses about what may cause an anomaly, multiple items of evidence with varying diagnosticity, observed effects that may not be certain, and hypotheses sets that may not be exhaustive. The results reveal when the following phenomena should occur: (1) discounting or inflating of posterior probabilities, (2) superadditive probabilities of various causes, and (3) unchanged probability of a potential cause given evidence in support of a different cause. The analytical findings have implications for the design and interpretation of experimental auditing research, for educating novice auditors, and for potentially improving audit practice.
Morphological and molecular characterization of Raphidascaris (Ichthyascaris) lophii (Wu, 1949) (Nematoda, Anisakidae) from marine fishes from China, with a key to the species of the subgenus Ichthyascaris
Authors: Xu Zhen , Zhang Lu-Ping , Liu Bao-Chen , Li Liang
Published: August 2012

The little known ascaridoid nematode Raphidascaris (Ichthyascaris) lophii (Wu, 1949) is redescribed and illustrated based on newly collected specimens from the five different marine fishes: Lophius litulon (Jordan) (Lophiiformes: Lophiidae), Lophiomus setigerus (Vahl) (Lophiiformes: Lophiidae), Antennarius hispidus (Bloch et Schneider) (Lophiiformes: Antennaridae), Zeus faber Linnaeus (Zeiformes: Zeidae) and Ostichthys japonicus (Cuvier) (Beryciformes: Holocentridae) from the East and South China Sea. This species differs from all congeners in the subgenus Ichthyascaris by the length of the ventricular appendix (0.52–0.98 mm long), the number and arrangement of caudal papillae (26–32 pairs of precloacal, 3–4 pairs of paracloacal and 8–11 pairs of postcloacal) and the length of the spicules (0.49–0.88 mm long, representing 3.08–4.70% of body length). In addition, nematodes collected from these five different fishes have been characterized using molecular methods by sequencing and analysing the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) of ribosomal DNA. No variation in size and nucleotide polymorphisms is detected within the target sequence among all samples analysed. These data contribute to facilitate an accurate diagnosis of this poorly known nematode. An identification key to the species of the subgenus Ichthyascaris is also provided.
A review of the Lepocreadiidae (Digenea, Lepocreadioidea) from fishes of the waters around New Caledonia
Authors: Bray Rodney , Justine Jean-Lou
Published: August 2012

The lepocreadiid fauna of New Caledonia is reported and discussed and a new species and several new host and locality records presented. Hypoporus plataxi sp. nov. from Platax teira is described and distinguished from its only congener by its terminal genitalia, the structure of the anterior part of the alimentary system and other morphological features. New host and locality records and a description are given of Lepotrema cf. clavatum Ozaki, 1932 in Sufflamen fraenatum. New host and locality records are given of Lobatocreadium exiguum (Manter, 1963) in Pseudobalistes fuscus, which is also reported in the known hosts Abalistes filamentosus and Sufflamen fraenatum. New host and locality records are given of Opisthogonoporus amadai Yamaguti, 1937 in Branchiostegus wardi. A new host record is made for Holorchis plectorhynchi Durio et Manter, 1968 in Diagramma pictum. New records in New Caledonian waters are of Bulbocirrus aulostomiYamaguti, 1965 in Aulostomus chinensis, Echeneidocoelium indicum Simha et Pershad, 1964 in Echeneis naucrates, Lepidapedoides kalikali Yamaguti, 1970 in Pristipomoides auricilla, Neomultitestis aspidogastriformis Bray et Cribb, 2003 in Platax teira, Opechona bacillaris (Molin, 1859) in Rastrelliger kanagurta, Prodistomum keyam Bray et Cribb, 1996 in Monodactylus argenteus and Pseudopisthogonoporus vitellosus (Pritchard, 1963) in Naso brevirostris and N. annulatus. New metrical data are presented for Holorchis castex Bray et Justine, 2007 in Diagramma pictum, Hypocreadium patellareYamaguti, 1938 in Sufflamen fraenatum, Intusatrium robustum Durio et Manter, 1968 in Bodianus loxozonus and B. perditio and Lepidapedoides angustus Bray, Cribb et Barker, 1996 in Epinephelus chlorostigma, E. fasciatus, E. maculatus and E. retouti. Literature records are included and the fauna in general discussed.
Radix spp.: Identification of trematode intermediate hosts in the Czech Republic
Authors: Huňová Kateřina , Kašný Martin , Hampl Vladimír , Leontovyč Roman , Kuběna Aleš , Mikeš Libor , Horák Petr
Published: August 2012

Lymnaeid snails of the genus Radix serve as intermediate hosts of some schistosomes and fasciolids. In Europe, delineation of species within the genus Radix is unresolved and, therefore, spectrum of snail hosts susceptible to trematode infections is under discussion. We used and compared three criteria for species delineation using snails collected at 43 localities. (a) Sequence analysis of ITS-2 rDNA disclosed that the collected snails belong to four species — R. auricularia (Linnaeus, 1758), R. peregra (Müller, 1774), R. lagotis (Schrank, 1803) and R. labiata (Rossmaessler, 1835) (criteria and names are based on the work of Bargues et al. 2001). Occurrence of R. peregra in the Czech Republic was confirmed by molecular data for the first time. (b) Characterization of reproductive system disclosed differences in location, size and shape of bursa copulatrix and its ductus. Unfortunately, some R. labiata specimens shared morphological features of reproductive organs with R. lagotis. (c) Statistical analysis of shell morphology proved that significant differences exist among particular species. One prediction model showed that correct classification of species may be achieved in 82-84% of cases. However, identification of individual snails in the field (without knowledge of respective snail population and use of statistical tools) still remains a complicated issue due to overlaps of shell characteristics. Concerning the role in trematode transmission, R. lagotis, R. labiata and R. peregra are susceptible to Trichobilharzia regenti. Also, successful experimental infections of R. lagotis and R. labiata by Fascioloides magna were accomplished.
Occurrence of blood parasites and intensity of infection in Prunella modularis in the montane and subalpine zone in the Slovak Carpathians
Authors: Haas Martina , Lukáň Martin , Kisková Jana , Hrehová Zuzana
Published: August 2012

The objective of this study was to obtain primary information on the occurrence of blood parasites and intensity of infection in the Dunnock Prunella modularis in the montane region of Slovakia. Altogether 109 birds were examined during the years 2006–2010. The occurrence of Haemoproteus sp., Leucocytozoon fringillinarum and Trypanosoma sp. was documented. Blood parasite prevalences of 45% by microscopic examination and 55% by PCR diagnostics were found. The prevalence of Leucocytozoon sp. was found to be dependent on host sex with males showing a significantly higher intensity of infection with Leucocytozoon. Adult birds showed significantly higher infection prevalence than subadults. The prevalences of both Leucocytozoon sp. and Haemoproteus sp. were significantly dependent on bird age. The intensity of infection with Haemoproteus and Leucocytozoon was positively correlated and higher intensity of infection was confirmed in adult birds then in subadults birds. The prevalence of blood parasites in our samples was significantly higher in comparison to most other studies from different countries of Europe conducted at lower altitudes, indicating that the montane zone is especially favourable for the transmission of Leucocytozoon and Haemoproteus species.
The biology of Echinoparyphium (Trematoda, Echinostomatidae)
Authors: Huffman Jane , Fried Bernard
Published: August 2012

Echinoparyphium species are common, widely distributed intestinal parasites causing disease in animals worldwide. Intermediate hosts include snails, bivalves, and fish, whereas the definitive hosts are mainly birds and mammals. This review examines the significant literature on Echinoparyphium. Descriptive studies, life cycle, experimental and manipulative studies, and biochemical and molecular studies are presented. The influence of environmental factors, and toxic pollutants, are reviewed as well as studies on the pathology of Echinoparyphium.
Impact of interannealing on recrystallization during final annealing in twin-belt cast Al–Fe–Si sheet
Authors: Birol Yucel
Published: August 2012

The impact of interannealing on the recrystallization process in a twin-belt cast AlFeSi alloy was investigated by means of calorimetry, microstructural analysis, electrical conductivity, hardness measurements and cupping tests. The AlFeSi hot band cold-rolled to 1 mm without interannealing offers a higher precipitation capacity than that interannealed at 4 mm. The response to annealing of the former is therefore dominated by precipitation activities. Recrystallization is sluggish, lasts until 623 K and produces relatively coarse grains. The interannealed sheet, on the other hand, softens fully at 573 K via a typical two-stage, recovery and recrystallization reaction. The limited precipitation capacity in the latter allows recrystallization to occur primarily in a discontinuous fashion. This helps to balance the rolling texture inherited from the prior cold-rolling passes. In sheet samples processed without interannealing, the nucleation rate and the volume fraction of the discontinuously recrystallized grains are greatly reduced, owing to extensive concurrent precipitation. This reduces the strength of the annealing texture components which thus fail to balance the rolling texture after annealing.
Effect of room temperature storage time on precipitation in Al–Mg–Si(–Cu) alloys with different Mg/Si ratios
Authors: Wenner Sigurd , Marioara Calin Daniel , Andersen Sigmund Jarle , Holmestad Randi
Published: August 2012

The effect of natural ageing time before artificial ageing has been investigated in four Al–Mg–Si(–Cu) alloys, with 0.4% Mg + 0.8% Si and 0.8% Mg + 0.4% Si, both with and without 0.14 at.% Cu. The precipitate microstructure was quantified by means of transmission electron microscopy. Varying the storage time before ageing for 170 min at 200°C, we observe an initial hardness increase after minutes, a decrease after several hours and another increase after weeks. The hardness decrease was most pronounced in the Mg-rich Cu-free alloy, caused by a reduced precipitate volume fraction. Adding Cu produces finer microstructures, higher hardness and reduces the negative effect of natural ageing regardless of the Mg/Si ratio of the alloy. With 1 week storage, an increase in the fraction of the Cu-containing precipitates L and Q′ was observed in the Cu-containing Si-rich and Mg-rich alloys respectively.
Influence of Mg/Si ratio on the clustering kinetics in Al–Mg–Si alloys
Authors: Chang Cynthia Sin Ting , Liang Zeqin , Schmidt Eric , Banhart John
Published: August 2012

The clustering kinetics of Al–Mg–Si alloys are studied by means of differential scanning calorimetry. Five alloys with different Mg and Si contents from 0.4 to 1.1 at.% are used. Two overlapping cluster peaks are observed in the heat flow curves; Cluster 1 (C1) situated at ≈50°C and Cluster 2 (C2) situated at around ≈80°C when heating at 10 K min−1. It was found that the heat effect of clustering is largest in alloys with Mg/Si close to 1, while the C1/C2 heat effect ratio depends on the Si content. Activation energies for the two clustering processes C1 and C2 are obtained by applying different evaluation methods. The alloy having an Mg/Si ratio close to 1 has the smallest initial activation energies for C1, while samples with higher Mg content have lower initial activation energies for C2, inferring that C1 is Si-related, whereas C2 is Mg-related. However, the entire clustering process requires both Mg and Si to proceed.
Effect of simultaneous deformation and artificial ageing on the mechanical properties of an Al–Mg–Si alloy
Authors: Kolar Michal , Pedersen Ketill Olav , Gulbrandsen-Dahl Sverre , Marthinsen Knut
Published: August 2012

Tensile tests have been carried out on a commercial Al–Mg–Si-alloy after simultaneous deformation and artificial ageing. Extruded and solution heat treated specimens were deformed 2%, 5% and 10% (engineering strain) and simultaneously artificially aged at two different temperatures (175 and 190°C) for various times (depending on the strain rates used for pre-deformation) before tensile testing. A comparison with previously obtained tensile properties following sequential pre-deformation and artificial ageing shows that the simultaneous mode generally displays better mechanical strength and after shorter ageing times. The best performing alloy has been obtained by using a split artificial ageing procedure for 10% deformed sample simultaneously aged for 40 min at 175°C followed by additional ageing for 60 min at the same temperature.
Ab-initio modeling of metastable precipitation processes in aluminum 7xxx alloys
Authors: de Jong Maarten , van der Zwaag Sybrand , Sluiter Marcel
Published: August 2012

Aluminum 7000-alloys depend primarily on precipitation hardening for their strength. Precipitate phases may form through complex precipitation sequences, in which a precipitate gradually evolves towards a thermodynamically stable state via intermediate thermodynamically metastable phases. During the precipitation sequence, precipitates may change not only size but also shape, composition and coherence with the matrix. Despite the industrial significance of aluminum-7000 alloys, the precipitation process remains poorly understood, as evinced by a large amount of scatter in the experimentally observed data on precipitation. In this work, we employ density functional theory first principles calculations to study the energetics of precipitation. It is shown that for the various precipitate families, a monotonic decrease in bulk formation enthalpy occurs during the precipitation sequence and various proposed structures are discarded based on unreasonable energetics. Further, the influences of strain and interfacial energy are quantified and a structural sequence is proposed for the important η precipitate family based on energetics.
Comparative thermodynamic analysis and phase diagram prediction of the Ga – Sn – Zn system
Authors: Živković Dragana , Balanović Ljubiša , Manasijević Dragan , Grgurić Tamara Holjevac , Ćubela Dijana , Mitovski Aleksandra
Published: August 2012

The results of comparative thermodynamic analysis and phase diagram prediction of the Ga – Sn – Zn system are presented in this work. The thermodynamic study was done experimentally – using Oelsen calorimetry, for the section Ga – SnZneut, and analytically – according to the general solution model, for the whole system. Main thermodynamic quantities – integral and partial molar Gibbs excess energies, activities and activity coefficients were calculated over a wide temperature range. Additionally, the phase diagram of the section Ga – SnZneut was investigated using differential thermal analysis and predicted using the CALPHAD method. Comparison with available literature data showed reasonable agreement. The liquidus projection of the ternary Ga – Sn – Zn was also calculated.
Mechanochemical Milling of PP/Ground Tire Rubber Blends in Solid-State
Authors: Zhang X. , Zhou Z. , He X. , Li J. , Lu C.
Published: August 2012

In this study, solid-state mechanochemical milling was investigated as a viable strategy to produce high performance blends composed of polypropylene (PP) and ground tire rubber (GTR), thereby providing a potentially new route to recycle discarded tires. The improved dispersion of the blends after mechanochemical milling was confirmed by fluorescence microscopy and polarized optical microscopy (POM) observation. After 20 cycles of milling, the tensile strength of PP/GTR (100/40) blends was enhanced by 13.8%, and the elongation at break was over 12 times than that of the unpretreated blend. The formation of smaller and less ordered spherulites of PP after mechanochemical milling as confirmed by POM observation and wide-angle X-ray diffraction analysis might be the reason for the significant enhancement of the elongation at break.
A 3D Simulation Analysis of Reactive Flow in Screw Elements of Closely Intermeshing Twin Screw Extruders
Authors: Ortiz-Rodriguez E. , Tzoganakis C.
Published: August 2012

The peroxide-initiated degradation of polypropylene in conventional screw elements of closely intermeshing twin-screw extruders is analyzed by means of a three-dimensional (3D) simulation approach. The 3D simulations of the reacting flow are implemented under the assumption of steady-state flow conditions, and scale-up considerations are addressed by simulating screw elements of two different size extruders. The effects of the initial peroxide concentration and reference mass throughputs on processing parameters are analyzed in terms of the specified extruder size. In this study, the scaled-up mass throughput is determined under the assumption of constant residence time. For the implemented processing conditions, the final values of the weigh-average molecular weight (Mw) and polidispersity index (PDI) for both the reference and scaled-up screw elements are similar when the flow rate is close to that corresponding to the maximum conveying capacity of the screw elements. For more restricted flow conditions, however, lower values of both the Mw and PDI are obtained for the larger screw element. Additionally, a previously proposed scale-up procedure from one-dimensional (1D) simulations is evaluated by means of a 3D simulation analysis. The results of this evaluation show a good agreement between the trend of the 3D and 1D simulation results.
Morphology and Mechanical Properties of Compatibilized Bio-sourced PA/Plasticized Starch Grafted PP Ternary Polymer Blends
Authors: Teyssandier F. , Cassagnau P. , Gérard J. F. , Mignard N.
Published: August 2012

Polymer blends of biosourced polyamide (Rilsan XD) and thermoplastic starch grafted polypropylene (LAB4270) were processed by means of a co-rotating twin-screw extruder, using a solid epoxy resin (D.E.R. 664UE) as a compatibilizer. Morphologies as well as rheological, thermal and mechanical properties of the blends were characterized. The morphology of the reference blend was characterized by nodules of the micron order of magnitude of the dispersed phase (LAB4270) embedded in the polyamide matrix. Even though the morphologies of the blends were not impacted by the addition of the epoxy resin, the mechanical properties as well as the impact resilience were proved to be enhanced. The thermal properties of the blends were as well influenced. A shift of the crystallization temperatures and a decrease of the crystallization enthalpies of both the polypropylene and the PA XD were observed. Thus the addition of the epoxy resin as compatibilizer had proved to be truly effective to obtain a material mostly biosourced with mechanical properties that tend towards combined optimal properties of the different components of the blend.
Preparation and Characterization of Polyurethane/Polysulfide Miscible Blend Nanocomposites
Authors: Guchhait P. K. , Rahaman M. , Nayak L. , Chaki T. K.
Published: August 2012

Novel elastomeric miscible blend nanocomposites have been prepared by co-reacting isocyanate terminated liquid polyurethane pre-polymer with thiol terminated polysulfide together with chain extender, modified organic nanoclay, and curator. The studies report the influence of nanoclay loading on the morphology, mechanical and thermal properties of the nanocomposites. The morphology and state of dispersion of nanoclays in the nanocomposites were studied by high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM). It was seen that nanoclay particles were well dispersed in the blend at 1, 3, and 5 wt.% nanoclay loadings. The reactive miscibility of blend was confirmed by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The effect of clay loading on thermal stability of polysulfide PS/IPU blend and their nanocomposites was studied by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). It was observed that thermal stability of nanocomposite progressively increased with increase in nanoclay loading. However, about 123% increment in adhesive strength, 78% increment in tensile strength were observed at 3 wt.% clay loaded nanocomposite when compared to control blend. This enhancement in thermal, adhesion and mechanical properties demonstrate that the resulting nanocomposites can be tailored as novel adhesive and coating materials for aerospace application.
An Investigation on Usage of Sodium Borohydride and Zinc Oxide as Oxygen Scavengers in Polyethylene Terephthalate Films
Authors: Özen İ.
Published: August 2012

The aim of this work is the production and characterisation of a plastic film having active oxygen barrier properties. The films have been obtained by adding an oxygen scavenger (either sodium borohydride (NaBH4) or zinc oxide (ZnO)) into a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) matrix during the extrusion process. In order to investigate the activity of the scavengers used, the produced films have been subjected to permeability measurements. It was revealed that NaBH4 – though a strong reductive agent – didn't cause any degradation in matrix polymer but served as an ineffective oxygen scavenger as in the case of ZnO.
Health Factors in Islamic Perspectives and its Relation to Sustainability with Case Study at Traditional and Modern Mosque
Authors: Das R , Qureshi TS , Chowdhury MSJ , Alam MJB
Published: August 2012

The study elucidates how health consideration integrated to the traditional, conventional and modern mosque design in Bangladesh. A literature survey is conducted to understandard the definition of health based on Islamic perspective. The purpose is to compare its sustainability and relationship with traditional and present design pattern of mosque. The literature study identifies four primary factors on health in the mosque design associated with natural lighting, ventilator, location of toilets and rainwater discharge. Analysis comprises design on natural lighting related to sun shading and indirect lighting, rainwater discharge related to rainwater deflection and leakages and wall openings related to natural cross air ventilation. In this study, Kalitikor Central Mosque, Bandar based on traditional pattern, Noyashorok Jamia Mosque and Amborkhana Jamia Mosque were chosen as modern type mosque. The analysis however shows the weakness that Kalitikor Central Mosque and Amborkhana Jamia Mosque design does not apply enough windows in the construction for opening furthermore Amborkhana Jamia Mosque design includes toilet facilities within the mosque. Noyashorok Jamia Mosque have sufficient opening in Back and left side however Amborkhana and Nayashork both of the mosque have no open windows facilities in its right hand side. The traditional toilet system is also a threat to health and safety factor. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jesnr.v5i1.11547 J. Environ. Sci. & Natural Resources, 5(1): 01-08, 2012