bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bangla Speech Analysis, Synthesis, and Vowel Nasality
Authors: Haque Shahina
Published: July 2013

The chapter provides an overview of the theory of speech production, analysis, and synthesis, and status of Bangla speech processing. As nasality is a distinctive feature of Bangla and all the vowels have their nasal counterpart, both Bangla vowels and nasality are also considered. The chapter reviews the state-of-the-art of nasal vowel research, cross language perception of vowel nasality, and vowel nasality transformation to be used in a speech synthesizer.
Building Language Resources for Emotion Analysis in Bengali
Authors: Das Dipankar , Bandyopadhyay Sivaji
Published: July 2013

Rapidly growing Web users from multilingual communities focus the attention to improve the multilingual search engines on the basis of sentiment or emotion and provide the opportunities to build resources for languages other than English. At present, there is no such corpus or lexicon available for emotion analysis in Indian languages, especially for Bengali, the sixth most popular language in the world, second in India, and the national language of Bangladesh. Thus, in the chapter, the authors describe the preparation of an emotion corpus and lexicon in Bengali. The emotion lexicon, termed Bengali WordNet Affect has been developed from its equivalent version in English by traversing the steps of expansion, translation, and sense disambiguation. In addition to emotion lexicon, a Bengali blog corpus for emotion analysis has also been developed by manual annotators with detailed linguistic expressions such as emotional phrases, intensities, emotion holder, emotion topic and target span, and sentential emotion tags.
The Social Role of University Entrepreneurship
Authors: Paunescu Carmen , Cantaragiu Ramona
Published: July 2013

This chapter discusses the dimensions and characteristics of social entrepreneurship in universities and its role in developing sustainable communities. It argues that by building on social responsibility practices and creating an identity of a society-oriented university, one which is driven by a social mission and humanistic values and a sense of moral commitment to its communities, higher education institutions are more likely to succeed on the global market characterized by an increasing competition and a high degree of internationalization. Therefore, by understanding the driving forces which determine the social entrepreneurial behavior of the academic community, universities will be more successful in driving social transformation and achieving innovation. While the view of social entrepreneurship in university put forward in this chapter is far from complete, the authors see it as an important first step to enhance theoretical understanding of the phenomenon and facilitate future research.
Neo-Liberal Governance in Higher Education
Authors: Morrissey Paul
Published: July 2013

This chapter analyzes the emerging trend in tertiary education to manage institutional reputation, and it offers evidence from case studies in developed and emerging economies to support the analysis. The evidence presented suggests that this activity is global in scope and is associated with the ever-increasing competitive environment in which universities and other tertiary colleges find themselves. The management of reputation appears to revolve around the core activities of research and teaching and the development of an international environment, suggesting a convergence of governance at the micro level. The purpose of the chapter is to provide a new perspective on neo-liberal governance in HE, and to show how the current emphasis on international competition and the knowledge economy affects individual institutions in different national systems in different ways. The chapter also points to the challenges that the quest for enhanced reputation may present managers.
Some Important Aspects to Enhance the Quality of the Technical Education System for Better Industry-Institute Interaction
Authors: Joshi Jayant G.
Published: July 2013

The outcome of technical education system is fresh engineers/technicians who are the backbone of the industrial sector. It is the responsibility of faculty members, institutions, and industries to enhance the quality of this outcome to (a) achieve higher production rate and (b) manufacture the quality products to satisfy the customer needs in the global market. It is essential to update the curriculum, Teaching-Learning (T-L) process, and practical skills of faculty members according to the industrial requirements. This chapter presents different important aspects that can be scientifically implemented in technical education systems to escalate the quality of fresh engineers/technicians. The quality deciding factors are: industrial exposure to faculty members through the industrial case studies, inclusion of interdisciplinary subjects in the curriculum, implementation of structured project work, and planned industrial training for students. Another important element is to create the research and development environment in polytechnics and engineering colleges to inculcate the research capabilities amongst the students. In each aspect of this chapter, flow diagrams, models, implementation methodology, role of faculty members, students, institutions, and industries are presented and discussed. These aspects facilitate to generate intelligent, multidisciplinary skilled, and innovative technical manpower. Thus, the fruitful industry-institute-interaction can be achieved.
Project Realities
Authors: McGee Patricia , Anderson Michael
Published: July 2013

Meeting the demands of students who expect convenience, affordability, and a quality education has required that institutions of higher learning find ways to offer programs in multiple delivery modes. Blended or hybrid course delivery requiring course meetings both on campus and online is a growing model that addresses institutional challenges of classroom availability, technology use in courses, improvement of four-year graduation rates when more courses are offered, and flexibility in attendance through multiple course delivery options. This case study describes an institutional strategic initiative, the Summer Hybrid Academy, which supported faculty members in the transition from campus-based classroom courses to technology-infused hybrid courses. Year One of the Academy was planned without using a project management approach, and Year Two was offered with a project management approach that improved results.
Project Management, Complexity and Creativity
Authors: Thomas Herbert , Hollis Jessica
Published: July 2013

This case involves the implementation of an automated capture solution, aimed at replacing a manual lecture capture service at the University of Canterbury in New Zealand. The implementation of such a solution, within a very short timeframe and subject to a constrained budget, was necessitated by a significant change in lecturer-student interaction brought about by a devastating earthquake and associated aftershocks. In consequence, recently adopted project management methodology at the institution had to be amended in order to incorporate software selection processes under way at another institution. The university project management approach (based on Prince 2 project management philosophy) includes an exhaustive comparison of software packages, based on detailed “Request for Information” and “Request for Proposal” procedures. Severe time constraints forced the project team to omit these procedures by tapping into the same process at another university undergoing the same exercise. This was the only way in which the project could be completed within the proposed timeframe. Currently, the automated capture solution is being prepared for handover from the project manager to the institution in December 2012, as planned.
An Online Initiative Goes Viral
Authors: Fisher Elizabeth A.
Published: July 2013

The University of Alabama at Birmingham’s (UAB) growth initiative to increase access and enrollment in part through online education prompted its School of Business (BUS) to examine its current approach to this mode of instruction. The faculty-led Undergraduate Curriculum Committee in the school encouraged a more strategic approach than was previously employed. Desire to remain competitive in the higher education arena made administration eager to woo new students and better serve current ones. The BUS is keenly aware that students increasingly demand flexibility in attending classes and are willing to shop around for it. This case describes the implementation of online instruction at UAB School of Business yielding a five-fold increase in online courses in just three years with much larger gains in credit hour production than their traditional programs realized. Moreover, the case describes major accomplishments, challenges encountered, lessons learned, and solutions from instructional design and project management perspectives.
Volunteer Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) on an eLearning Development Project
Authors: Dobrovolny Jackie , Horner Marianne , Kane Lee Ann , Miller Margaret , Chillemi Travis
Published: July 2013

Representatives from eight different organizations collaborated to develop a self-paced elearning course to teach preceptor skills to staff nurses in various healthcare organizations. The course employed a constructivist theory of learning and simulated many of the conversations and relationships staff nurses experience when performing preceptor responsibilities. Three of the four subject matter experts were volunteers and never compensated financially for their work on the course. The project manager used an iterative instructional design model and a generic project management methodology. The team considers the project a success because the course is complete, albeit two years later than scheduled, and generating a small amount of revenue. Additionally, the team progressed through the four stages of team development, reaching the “performing” stage, and the course is part of an effective three-pronged solution to avert a potential nursing shortage in the state.
Implementing Infrastructure-Related Education Technology Solutions at the Government Primary and Secondary School Level
Authors: Dickson-Deane Camille , Deane W. Andrew
Published: July 2013

Advances in technology and the increased competitiveness of the world’s economy have changed the landscape for developing countries. One of the primary steps many countries have taken to be competitive is to infuse technology into the education system, using funds provided by international funding agencies. This case study discusses the SITUP project, which uses technology to enhance a portion of the education system in a developing country. These enhancements include infusion of technology into the delivery systems, introducing skill-based efficiencies for educators and general infrastructure-related access. The case highlights the importance of team buy-in, clearly identifying change management and general reporting processes and, most importantly, including all stakeholders through each phase of the project. Vendor-related solutions, lack of instructional design methodologies, creating processes, and identifying appropriate risks are some of the challenges discussed. Lessons learned and recommendations for similar projects that occur within difficult economic and political climates are presented.
Implementing Simulators to Facilitate Learning for Initial Entry Soldiers
Authors: Bland-Williams Sonya
Published: July 2013

Much like any organization’s training program, military training schools train in technical skills, values, and common tasks. In this chapter’s project management endeavor, implementing simulator training to facilitate learning is described in general terms from an Army context. This case narrative provides a general awareness of the aspects of project management that contribute to typical project risks, cost, and quality of technology-based learning projects within a military training environment. The case is presented using fictional characters as an approach to capture real-world challenges while remaining consistent with the Department of Defense’s Principles of Information policy. In carrying out the policy, the case discloses only information that does not adversely affect national security or threaten the safety or privacy of the men and women of the Department of Defense.
Exploring the Impact of Web 2.0 on Knowledge Management
Authors: Bebensee Thomas , Helms Remko , Spruit Marco
Published: July 2013

Web 2.0 and Knowledge Management (KM) have a considerable overlap. It appears promising to apply Web 2.0 applications for supporting and improving sharing and creation of knowledge. Yet, little research examining the impact of Web 2.0 on KM has been conducted. This chapter presents research examining the suitability and impact of Web 2.0 applications on KM in organizations. Two extensive exploratory case studies were conducted involving 11 interviews with key personnel of two student-run organizations. It is demonstrated how Web 2.0 applications can be used for a number of KM practices mostly related to the areas of asset management and knowledge creation and innovation. Moreover, they suggest that among all the Web 2.0 principles, User-Generated Content and Unbounded Collaboration exert the biggest influence on creating and sharing of knowledge within organizations. The study contributes to the general understanding of how Web 2.0 and KM practices can be interlinked with each other.
Moving Wikis Behind the Firewall
Authors: Cooper Lynne P. , Rober Mark B.
Published: July 2013

The use of wikis behind the firewall in corporations presents significant opportunities as well as challenges for improving knowledge capture and work processes. This chapter identifies fundamental characteristics of wikis and how these change between public and corporate wikis, and between wikis intended for knowledge capture (intrapedias) and those supporting work processes. A case study describing two organizational wikis illustrates the power of the individual in instigating knowledge capture and the ability of wiki technology to rapidly and easily support individuals in their work efforts. The case study also exposes how adopting wikis can challenge deeply engrained cultural beliefs. As wikis become more prevalent behind the firewall, organizations may need to shift to new ways of thinking about knowledge sharing, the role of the individual versus the collective, and governance. Conversely, characteristics of wikis may need to be adjusted to deal with the realities of knowledge use within organizations.
The Composite Cytokine p28/Cytokine-Like Factor 1 Sustains B Cell Proliferation and Promotes Plasma Cell Differentiation
Authors: Tormo Aurélie Jeanne , Meliani Yasmine , Beaupré Linda Ann , Sharma Mukut , Fritz Jörg H. , Elson Greg , Crabé Sandrine , Gauchat Jean-François
Published: July 2013

IL-27 is an APC-derived IL-6/IL-12 family composite cytokine with multiple functions such as regulation of Th1, Th17, and regulatory T cell differentiation, B cell proliferation, and Ig class switching. The IL-27 complex is formed by the association of the cytokine p28 with the soluble cytokine receptor EBV-induced gene 3 (EBI3). The IL-27 cytokine and soluble receptor subunits p28 and EBI3 can be secreted independently. The p28 subunit has been shown to have IL-27–independent biological activities. We previously demonstrated that p28 can form an alternative composite cytokine with the EBI3 homolog cytokine-like factor 1 (CLF; CRLF1). p28/CLF modulates NK cell activity and CD4 T cell cytokine production in vitro. In this study we used IL-6–dependent plasmacytoma cell line B9 and CD4 T cells from IL-27Rα–deficient mice to demonstrate that p28/CLF activates IL-27–unresponsive cells, indicating that p28/CLF and IL-27 signal through different receptors. The observation that p28/CLF, unlike IL-27, sustains B9 plasmacytoma cell proliferation prompted us to investigate the effects of p28/CLF on mouse B cells. We observed that p28/CLF induces IgM, IgG2c, and IgG1 production and plasma cell differentiation. p28/CLF therefore has the potential to contribute to B and plasma cell function, differentiation, and proliferation in normal and pathological conditions such as Castelman’s disease and multiple myeloma.
Phenotypic CD8+ T Cell Diversification Occurs before, during, and after the First T Cell Division
Authors: Lemaître Fabrice , Moreau Hélène D. , Vedele Laura , Bousso Philippe
Published: July 2013

Effector T cell responses rely on a phenotypically and functionally heterogeneous population of cells. Whether this diversity is programmed before clonal expansion or in later phases as a result of stochastic events or asymmetric cell division is not fully understood. In this study, we first took advantage of a sensitive in vitro assay to analyze the composition of single CD8+ T cell progenies. Heterogeneity was predominantly observed between progenies of distinct clones, but could also be detected within individual progenies. Furthermore, by physically isolating daughter cells of the first T cell division, we showed that differences in paired daughter cell progenies contributed to intraclonal diversification. Finally, we developed an in vivo limiting dilution assay to compare individual T cell progenies following immunization. We provided evidence for simultaneous intraclonal and interclonal diversification in vivo. Our results support the idea that T cell diversification is a continuous process, initiated before clonal expansion and amplified during the first and subsequent cell divisions.
An Experimental and Theoretical Study of Blade–Vortex Interaction Noise
Authors: Koushik Sudarshan N. , Schmitz Fredric H.
Published: July 2013

An experimental method to study helicopter blade–vortex interaction (BVI) noise has been developed. Called the blade-controlled disturbance interaction, the method nearly replicates a rotor BVI by having a single-bladed rotor pass through a stationary gust field specially designed
to simulate the highly impulsive induced velocity field of a vortex. This approach can be used to evaluate the effectiveness of blade design changes to noise radiation during a BVI event, as well as to study the effect of different interaction geometries on the resulting noise. The first set
of experiments in this facility shows that the directionality of BVI noise radiation is very sensitive to the interaction angle. Oblique interactions spread the acoustics energy over wider azimuth angles compared to parallel interactions, as well as move the peak noise location closer to the
rotor plane. Linear two-dimensional unsteady aerodynamic theory predicts the overall directionality trends reasonably well. However, the actual pulse shapes do not match and noise levels are underpredicted, particularly for oblique interactions.
Metateoretiese vertrekpunte ten opsigte van wetenskaplike navorsing in die Pastorale Wetenskap
Authors: Breed Gert
Published: July 2013

Hierdie artikel is deel van ’n reeks oor die verrekening van die metateoretiese vertrekpunte in die wetenskap van die Praktiese Teologie. Die eerste fase van die reeks bied die teoretiese onderbou vir die werklikheids-, hermeneuties- en wetenskapsteoretiese beskouing van die vak. Die tweede fase fokus op die invloed wat hierdie vertrekpunte op die wetenskaplike navorsing van die verskillende vakgroepe in die Praktiese Teologie het. Hierdie artikel handel oor die wetenskaplike benaderingswyse tot die navorsingsveld van die Pastorale Wetenskap. In hierdie navorsingsartikel word die persoonlike metateoretiese perspektief waarmee die vakgebied van die Pastorale Wetenskap benader word, uitgespel en verantwoord ten opsigte van die volgende aspekte: die werklikheidsbeskouing waarmee daar op die navorsingsveld van die Pastorale Wetenskap gefokus word; die onderbou van die hermeneutiese beskouing wat nodig is om tot ’n verstaan te kom van die elemente in die Pastoraat en om tot ’n verantwoordbare verhouding tussen te kom van die elemente wat in die Pastoraat ter sprake is; en ten slotte, om die wetenskapsteoretiese benadering te beskryf waarmee die navorsingsveld van die Pastorale Wetenskap op ’n wetenskaplik-verantwoorde wyse ondersoek kan word.his article is part of a series about taking into account the metatheoretical assumptions in scientific practical-theological research. The first part of this series gives the theoretical foundation for the view on reality-, hermeneutical- and scientific-theoretical approaches to the research field. The second part focuses on the effect these assumptions will have on the scientific research of the various subject groups in Practical Theology. This article describes the scientific approach to the research field of pastoral care. This research article describes the personal metatheoretical perspective from which the subject area is approached and gives account of the following: the view on reality with which the research field of Pastoral Science is studied; the foundation on which the hermeneutical viewpoint is built to attain an understanding and a founded relationship between the elements that are applicable in Pastoral Science; and, in the last instance, to describe the scientific theoretical approach to the research field in a justified manner.
A noncommutative sigma model
Authors: Van den Worm Mauritz
Published: July 2013

We replace the classical string theory notions of mapping between parameter space and world-time with noncommutative tori mapping between these spaces. The dynamics of mappings between different noncommutative tori are studied and noncommutative versions of the Polyakov action and the Euler-Lagrange equations are derived. The quantum torus is studied in detail, as well as C*-homomorphisms between different quantum tori. A finite dimensional representation of the quantum torus is studied, and the partition function and other path integrals are calculated. At the end we prove existence theorems for mappings between different noncommutative tori.
Gender, Sex Hormones and Pulmonary Hypertension
Authors: Austin Eric D. , Lahm Tim , West James , Tofovic Stevan P. , Johansen Anne Katrine , MacLean Margaret R. , Alzoubi Abdallah , Oka Masahiko
Published: July 2013

Most subtypes of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) are characterized by a greater susceptibility to disease among females, although females with PAH appear to live longer after diagnosis. While this “estrogen paradox” of enhanced female survival despite increased female susceptibility remains a mystery, recent progress has begun to shed light upon the interplay of sex hormones, the pathogenesis of pulmonary hypertension, and the right ventricular response to stress. For example, emerging data in humans and experimental models suggest that estrogens or differential sex hormone metabolism may modify disease risk among susceptible subjects, and that estrogens may interact with additional local factors such as serotonin to enhance the potentially damaging chronic effects of estrogens on the pulmonary vasculature. Regardless, it remains unclear why not all estrogenic compounds behave equally, nor why estrogens appear to be protective in certain settings but detrimental in others. The contribution of androgens and other compounds, such as dehydroepiandrosterone, to pathogenesis and possibly treatment must be considered as well. In this review, we will discuss the recent understandings on how estrogens, estrogen metabolism, dehydroepiandrosterone, and additional susceptibility factors may all contribute to the pathogenesis or potentially to the treatment of pulmonary hypertension, by evaluating current human, cell‐based, and experimental model data.
A Multicenter, Retrospective Study of Patients with Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension Transitioned from Parenteral Prostacyclin Therapy to Inhaled Iloprost
Authors: Channick Richard N. , Frantz Robert P. , Kawut Steven M. , Palevsky Harold , Tumuluri Ramagopal , Sulica Roxana , Lauto Paula O. , Benton Wade W. , de Boisblanc Bennett
Published: July 2013

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is characterized by progressive increases in pulmonary vascular resistance, leading to right heart failure and death. Guidelines recommend customization of treatment, necessitating the development of effective strategies for transitioning patients among treatments. In this study, we characterized our experience with patient transitions from parenteral prostacyclin to inhaled iloprost. We retrospectively assessed records from 11 centers of 37 consecutive patients with PAH aged ≥ 18 years who were treated with intravenous (IV) or subcutaneous (SC) prostacyclin analogues and transitioned to inhaled iloprost. The transition period began on the first day of inhaled iloprost with the intent of discontinuing parenteral prostacyclin and ended on the first day on inhaled iloprost free of parenteral prostacyclin. Persistence was defined as the absence of (1) parenteral prostacyclin while remaining on inhaled iloprost during post‐transition Days 1–90 and (2) no reinitiation of parenteral prostacyclin during post‐transition Days 90–365. All patients were clinically stable before transitioning to inhaled iloprost. The mean age was 46.5 years, 70.3% were female, 51.4% had idiopathic PAH, and 43.0% were in New York Heart Association Functional Class III. Among patients with an overlapping transition, the mean transition period was 10.5 days. A transition dosing algorithm was used in 10 patients (27.0%). At one year, 78.4% of the patients remained persistent on inhaled iloprost and 81.1% were free of clinical worsening. In selected patients on background oral PAH therapy, transitioning from parenteral prostacyclin to inhaled iloprost appears safe and feasible and is associated with long‐term success. Further study is needed to define the optimal patient selection criteria and transition algorithm.
Optimization of Isolated Perfused/Ventilated Mouse Lung to Study Hypoxic Pulmonary Vasoconstriction
Authors: Yoo Hae Young , Zeifman Amy , Ko Eun A. , Smith Kimberly A. , Chen Jiwang , Machado Roberto F. , Zhao You‐Yang , Minshall Richard D. , Yuan Jason X.‐J.
Published: July 2013

Hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstriction (HPV) is a compensatory physiological mechanism in the lung that optimizes the matching of ventilation to perfusion and thereby maximizes gas exchange. Historically, HPV has been primarily studied in isolated perfused/ventilated lungs; however, the results of these studies have varied greatly due to different experimental conditions and species. Therefore, in the present study, we utilized the mouse isolated perfused/ventilated lung model for investigation of the role of extracellular Ca2+ and caveolin‐1 and endothelial nitric oxide synthase expression on HPV. We also compared HPV using different perfusate solutions: Physiological salt solution (PSS) with albumin, Ficoll, rat blood, fetal bovine serum (FBS), or Dulbecco's Modified Eagle Medium (DMEM). After stabilization of the pulmonary arterial pressure (PAP), hypoxic (1% O2) and normoxic (21% O2) gases were applied via a ventilator in five‐minute intervals to measure HPV. The addition of albumin or Ficoll with PSS did not induce persistent and strong HPV with or without a pretone agent. DMEM with the inclusion of FBS in the perfusate induced strong HPV in the first hypoxic challenge, but the HPV was neither persistent nor repetitive. PSS with rat blood only induced a small increase in HPV amplitude. Persistent and repetitive HPV occurred with PSS with 20% FBS as perfusate. HPV was significantly decreased by the removal of extracellular Ca2+ along with addition of 1 mM EGTA to chelate residual Ca2+ and voltage‐dependent Ca2+ channel blocker (nifedipine 1 μM). PAP was also reactive to contractile stimulation by high K+ depolarization and U46619 (a stable analogue of thromboxane A2). In summary, optimal conditions for measuring HPV were established in the isolated perfused/ventilated mouse lung. Using this method, we further confirmed that HPV is dependent on Ca2+ influx.
Anakinra in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis in adult patients with an inadequate response to methotrexate. Systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Kawalec Paweł , Holko Przemysław , Paszulewicz Anna
Published: July 2013

Wstęp: Anakinra jest rekombinowanym ludzkim antagonistą receptora interleukiny 1 (IL-1Ra), który prowadzi do zahamowania aktywności biologicznej IL-1, m.in. działania prozapalnego. Anakinra w skojarzeniu z metotreksatem (MTX) jest zalecana w leczeniu przedmiotowych i podmiotowych objawów reumatoidalnego zapalenia stawów (RZS) u dorosłych pacjentów, u których zastosowanie jednego lub więcej leków modyfikujących przebieg choroby (LMPCh) nie przyniosło pożądanych efektów.

Materiał i metody: W celu oceny skuteczności klinicznej tej opcji terapeutycznej, zgodnie z zasadami medycyny opartej na dowodach naukowych (evidence based medicine – EBM) zalecanymi przez organizację The Cochrane Collaboration oraz polską Agencję Oceny Technologii Medycznych (AOTM), dokonano systematycznego przeglądu literatury medycznej, w wyniku którego odnaleziono łącznie trzy badania kliniczne z randomizacją dotyczące porównania anakinry stosowanej z MTX (lub innymi LMPCh) względem placebo podawanego z MTX.

Wyniki: Umiarkowana skuteczność kliniczna wg kryteriów ACR20, ACR50, ACR70 i bezpieczeństwo stosowania anakinry w terapii skojarzonej u pacjentów z RZS została potwierdzona w większości odnalezionych

badań oraz dodatkowo na podstawie wyników metaanaliz przeprowadzonych z wykorzystaniem wyników przeglądu systematycznego.

Wnioski: Najczęstszym występującym działaniem niepożądanym, które w wielu przypadkach było przyczyną rezygnacji z dalszego leczenia, było pojawienie się reakcji alergicznej w miejscu wstrzyknięcia leku.
Value of nailfold videocapillaroscopy and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein test in diagnosis of microangiopathy in adolescents with Raynaud’s phenomenon
Authors: Górska Anna , Bartnicka Marta , Rutkowska-Sak Lidia
Published: July 2013

Wstęp: Wideokapilaroskopia wału przypaznokciowego umożliwia ocenę strukturalnych zaburzeń mikrokrążenia obwodowego u pacjentów z zespołem Raynauda (ZR).

Zwiększenie stężenia białka C-reaktywnego, oznaczanego metodą wysokiej czułości (high sensitivity C-reactive protein – hsCRP), jest natomiast uznanym wyznacznikiem zapalnej aktywacji lub dysfunkcji śródbłonka naczyniowego w wielu schorzeniach z autoimmunizacji, a także w miażdżycy, zwłaszcza w jej przedklinicznym stadium.

Cel pracy: Ocena zmian kapilaroskopowych w odniesieniu do czasu trwania objawu Raynauda oraz analiza zależności pomiędzy stężeniem hsCRP a ilościowymi i jakościowymi zaburzeniami mikrokrążenia obwodowego u dzieci i młodzieży z ZR.

Materiał i metody: Analizie poddano 144 pacjentów (104 dziewczęta i 40 chłopców) w średnim wieku 16,07 ±3,66 roku, u których co najmniej dwukrotnie wykonano badanie kapilaroskopowe. Badanych podzielono na 3 grupy w zależności od czasu trwania objawu Raynauda ( 2 lat, 2–5 lat i > 5 lat). Badania przeprowadzano przy użyciu kapilaroskopu STEMI 2000 Firmy ZEISS. Pomiarów kapilar dokonano za pomocą programu komputerowego NIS-Elements D2.30 Nikon Corp. Japan. Pętle kapilar szersze niż 50 µm uznano za poszerzone. U 59 pacjentów z obecnymi nieprawidłowymi wzorami mikronaczyń i stwierdzonymi niskimi klasycznymi wskaźnikami zapalnymi oznaczono hsCRP metodą immunoturbidymetryczną przy użyciu HITACHI 912.

Wyniki: Wtórny ZR rozpoznano u 43 pacjentów (39,8%), a pierwotny objaw Raynauda (PR) u 101 (70,2%) osób. Zaburzenia w obrazach kapilaroskopowych były bardziej nasilone u pacjentów z dłuższym czasem trwania choroby (p < 0,01). Średnie stężenie hsCRP (0,44 ±0,47 mg/dl) istotnie dodatnio korelowało z wiekiem pacjentów i czasem trwania ZR. Średnia szerokość ramienia tętniczego (35,4 ±11,4 µm) i żylnego (45,3 ±26,5 µm) istotnie dodatnio korelowały ze średnim stężeniem hsCRP (p < 0,05).

Wnioski: U pacjentów z zespołem Raynauda stwierdzenie zaburzeń strukturalnych mikronaczyń w badaniu kapilaroskopowym jednocześnie ze zwiększonym stężeniem hsCRP sugeruje obecność subklinicznego vasculitis, z możliwą aktywacją śródbłonka.

Dalsze badania strukturalnych i czynnościowych zaburzeń mikrokrążenia u pacjentów z wtórnym ZR mogłyby wspomóc działania ukierunkowane na hamowanie prozapalnej i prozakrzepowej aktywacji śródbłonka.
Role of physiologic issues in future therapy of rheumatoid arthritis I. Chronic inflammation toward action of parasympathetic system
Authors: Gajewski Michał , Rzodkiewicz Przemysław , Maśliński Sławomir , Wojtecka-Łukasik Elżbieta
Published: July 2013

Odkrycie wspólnego biochemicznego języka, jakim komunikują się między sobą układ nerwowy i odpornościowy, uznawane jest za jedno z największych odkryć współczesnej biologii. Wykazanie, że samo zakłócenie równowagi w poziomie cytokin, wydzielanych przez komórki biorące udział w zapaleniu, może spowodować wystąpienie objawów chorobowych rzuca nowe światło na genezę przewlekłych zapaleń.

W niniejszej publikacji przeanalizowano wstępnie znaczenie układu autonomicznego w regulacji procesów zapalnych oraz możliwą rolę nerwu błędnego w rozwoju reumatoidalnego zapalenia stawów.
Treatment of gout in patients after organ transplantation
Authors: Jaszczyk Bożena , Wisłowska Małgorzata
Published: July 2013

Występowanie dny moczanowej u pacjentów poddanych przeszczepowi narządu stanowi istotny problem, sprawiający niejednokrotnie trudności diagnostyczne i terapeutyczne. Hiperurykemia występuje u 5–84%, a dna u 1,7–28% pacjentów po przeszczepieniu narządu miąższowego. U biorców narządów obok powszechnie występujących w populacji czynników ryzyka istnieją czynniki charakterystyczne dla tej grupy, takie jak: stosowanie diuretyków, leków immunosupresyjnych oraz, bardzo często współistniejące, upośledzenie funkcji nerek lub nerki przeszczepionej. Częstość występowania napadów dny zależy w dużej mierze od stosowanego u chorego leczenia immunosupresyjnego. Najwięcej napadów dny występuje podczas stosowania cyklosporyny. Leczenie dnawego zapalenia stawów u pacjentów po przeszczepieniu sprawia często wiele trudności z powodu istotnych interakcji lekowych oraz współistnienia niewydolności nerek. Najlepszy profil bezpieczeństwa w tym zakresie wykazuje mykofenolan mofetylu. Istotny w zmniejszeniu ryzyka napadów dny jest również właściwy dobór leków hipotensyjnych.
Coexistence of lymph nodal-pulmonary sarcoidosis and rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Zwolakiewicz Adela , Sulencka-Kaatz Anna , Orłowicz Maja , Jeka Sławomir
Published: July 2013

Sarkoidoza jest chorobą ziarniniakową, objawiającą się najczęściej powiększeniem węzłów chłonnych wnęk płucnych i śródpiersia oraz zmianami śródmiąższowymi w płucach. Rozpoznanie sarkoidozy opiera się na typowym obrazie kliniczno-radiologicznym, stwierdzeniu ziarniniaków nieserowaciejących i wykluczeniu chorób o podobnym obrazie klinicznym i histopatologicznym. Zmiany stawowe w ostrej postaci mogą przypominać reumatoidalne zapalenie stawów (RZS).

W przewlekłej sarkoidozie zmiany stawowe obejmują jeden lub kilka stawów, przede wszystkim kolanowych i skokowych. Przedstawiono przypadek współistnienia sarkoidozy z objawami ze strony układu kostno-stawowego przypominającymi RZS. W badaniu histopatologicznym węzłów stwierdzono ziarninę sarkoidalną. Rozpoczęto leczenie glikokortykosteroidami. Dalsza obserwacja chorego spowodowała rozpoznanie współistniejącego RZS i szybkie podanie leków modyfikujących przebieg choroby z korzystnym efektem klinicznym.
Uptake of HO2 radicals on Arizona Test Dust
Authors: Bedjanian Y. , Romanias M. N. , El Zein A.
Published: July 2013

Abstract. The interaction of HO2 radicals with solid films of Arizona Test Dust (ATD) was studied using a low-pressure flow reactor (1–9 Torr) combined with a modulated molecular beam mass spectrometer for monitoring of the gaseous species involved. The reactive uptake coefficient of HO2 was measured from the kinetics of HO2 consumption on Pyrex rods coated with ATD as a function of HO2 concentration ((0.35–3.30) × 1012 molecule cm−3), relative humidity (RH = 0.02–94%), temperature (T = 275–320 K) and UV irradiance intensity (JNO2 = 0–0.012 s−1). The initial uptake coefficient was found to be independent of concentration of HO2, temperature and irradiation conditions, and to decrease with increasing relative humidity: γ0 = 1.2/(18.7 + RH1.1) (with 30% estimated conservative uncertainty). The uptake coefficient was calculated using geometric surface area and should be considered as an upper limit of γ0. An upper limit of 5% was found for the gaseous H2O2-forming pathway of the HO2 reaction with ATD surface. The results of the measurements indicate that HO2 loss on dust aerosol may be a non-negligible sink for HOx species in the troposphere with the effect depending on specific local conditions.
Radical mechanisms of methyl vinyl ketone oligomerization through aqueous phase OH-oxidation: on the paradoxical role of dissolved molecular oxygen
Authors: Renard P. , Siekmann F. , Gandolfo A. , Socorro J. , Salque G. , Ravier S. , Quivet E. , Clément J.-L. , Traikia M. , Delort A.-M. , Voisin D. , Vuitton V. , Thissen R. , Monod A.
Published: July 2013

Abstract. It is now accepted that one of the important pathways of secondary organic aerosol (SOA) formation occurs through aqueous phase chemistry in the atmosphere. However, the chemical mechanisms leading to macromolecules are still not well understood. It was recently shown that oligomer production by OH radical oxidation in the aerosol aqueous phase from α-dicarbonyl precursors, such as methylglyoxal and glyoxal, is irreversible and fast. Methyl vinyl ketone (MVK) was chosen in the present study as it is an α,β-unsaturated carbonyl that can undergo radical oligomerization in the aerosol aqueous phase. We present here experiments on the aqueous phase OH-oxidation of MVK, performed under various conditions. Using NMR and UV absorption spectroscopy, high and ultra-high resolution mass spectrometry, we show that the fast formation of oligomers up to 1800 Da is due to radical oligomerization of MVK, and 13 series of oligomers (out of a total of 26 series) are identified. The influence of atmospherically relevant parameters such as temperature, initial concentrations of MVK and dissolved oxygen are presented and discussed. In agreement with the experimental observations, we propose a chemical mechanism of OH-oxidation of MVK in the aqueous phase that proceeds via radical oligomerization of MVK on the olefin part of the molecule. This mechanism highlights in our experiments the paradoxical role of dissolved O2: while it inhibits oligomerization reactions, it contributes to produce oligomerization initiator radicals, which rapidly consume O2, thus leading to the dominance of oligomerization reactions after several minutes of reaction. These processes, together with the large range of initial concentrations investigated show the fundamental role that radical oligomerization processes likely play in polluted fogs and atmospheric aerosol.
Temperature and phytoplankton cell size regulate carbon uptake and carbon overconsumption in the ocean
Authors: Craig S. E. , Thomas H. , Jones C. T. , Li W. K. W. , Greenan B. J. W. , Shadwick E. H. , Burt W. J.
Published: July 2013

Abstract. Phytoplankton plays a critical role in the uptake of atmospheric carbon dioxide by the ocean, and is comprised of a spectrum of cell sizes that are strongly associated with different oceanographic conditions. Studies suggest that the ocean will become increasingly stratified in response to a warming climate, limiting nutrient exchange to the upper sunlit ocean and favouring small cells able to grow in warmer, nutrient poor conditions. Here we show that, in a temperate shelf sea, a summertime population of numerically abundant small cells accounts for approximately 20% of annual carbon uptake. These small cells are not well represented by chlorophyll a – the ubiquitously used proxy of phytoplankton biomass – but rather, are strongly correlated with surface water temperature. Given the persistent near-zero nutrient concentrations during the summer, it appears that small cells drive carbon overconsumption, and suggest that their role in carbon fixation will become increasingly important in a warming ocean.
Wind-wave amplification mechanisms: possible models for steep wave events in finite depth
Authors: Montalvo P. , Kraenkel R. , Manna M. A. , Kharif C.
Published: July 2013

Abstract. We extend the Miles' mechanism of wind-wave generation to finite depth. A β-Miles linear growth rate depending on the depth and wind velocity is derived and allows the study of linear growth rates of surface waves from weak to moderate winds in finite depth h. The evolution of β is plotted, for several values of the dispersion parameter kh with k the wave number. For constant depths we find that no matter what the values of wind velocities are, at small enough wave age the β-Miles linear growth rates are in the known deep water limit. However winds of moderate intensities prevent the waves from growing beyond a critical wave age, which is also constrained by the water depth and is less than the wave age limit of deep water. Depending on wave age and wind velocity, the Jeffreys' and Miles' mechanisms are compared to determine which of them dominates. A wind-forced nonlinear Schrödinger equation is derived and the Akhmediev, Peregrine and Kuznetsov–Ma breather solutions for weak wind inputs in finite depth h are obtained.
Who Are We and What Are We Doing? A Survey of Biofeedback Professionals Working with Children
Authors: Benore Ethan , Banez Gerard
Published: July 2013

This article sought to understand the current training and activities of professionals providing biofeedback to children, via an anonymous survey administered though professional organization listservs. Based on 57 responders, we identified gaps in training and in the use of evidence-based interventions. However, these responders are communicating primarily with other biofeedback practitioners. The vast majority are not active in biofeedback research on children. We conclude by raising several questions for professionals and professional organizations to consider regarding the specialized training and evidence-based practice of biofeedback.
Training for Success in a Child with ADHD
Authors: Santhirasegaram Lena , Thompson Lynda , Reid Andrea , Thompson Michael
Published: July 2013

This article presents a case study to illustrate how children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) can be assessed and successfully trained using neurofeedback. There is established efficacy for using neurofeedback to treat ADHD (Arns, De Ridder, Strehl, Breteler, & Coenen, 2009; Gani, Birbaumer, & Strehl, 2009; Gevensleben et al., 2009). Indeed, the American Academy of Pediatrics gave biofeedback Level 1 efficacy in its 2012 review (American Academy of Pediatrics, 2012), the same level of efficacy as is given to medications. The other condition that has sufficient randomized controlled studies to establish efficacy for electroencephalogram biofeedback is epilepsy (Tan et al., 2009). This case is presented to share techniques that will help clinicians conduct neurofeedback appropriately so that good results are obtained. The future of our field depends on every practitioner doing a quality job with excellent outcomes.
Reimagining the “Pythian Madness” of Souls
Authors: Manigault-Bryant James Arthur
Published: July 2013

This essay offers a close reading of the tenth chapter of W. E. B. Du Bois's The Souls of Black Folk, which is often referenced but rarely unpacked for its careful examination of the relationship between religion and African American modernity. I argue that Du Bois's encounter with the rhythms of southern African American religion during the late nineteenth century moves him into a different time, which he is only able to articulate through mythology. As a result, Du Bois constructs a discourse that subjects the nation to a collective psychoanalysis by prodding it to bring Africa into its metaphysics of time and space.
“The Quintessence of Sanctifying Grace”
Authors: Stewart Carole Lynn
Published: July 2013

Amanda Berry Smith was born in slavery, but became an African American female evangelist, a Holiness missionary, a member of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, and a named national evangelist for the Women's Christian Temperance Union. She was renowned for her preaching performances across the Midwest and abroad. As a missionary she traveled to India and Africa from 1878 to 1890, and upon her return published a substantial five-hundred-page autobiography. Little attention has been given to her autobiography or the cosmopolitan vision of her religious outlook, perhaps because of its idiosyncratic nature. She upholds some Victorian ideals of respectability but does not fall into an Anglo-Protestant mode; nor does she conform to the majority of abolitionist sentiments or faith in American progress. Her in-between status and a specific “transrational” and “transnational” religious orientation appear while she is participating in communal rituals with indigenous people in Liberia and Sierra Leone. Smith manifests a holy cosmopolitan “home” born from the legacy of slavery.
Overcoming Challenges to Initiating Cell Therapy Clinical Trials in Rapidly Developing Countries: India as a Model
Authors: Viswanathan Sowmya , Rao Mahendra , Keating Armand , Srivastava Alok
Published: July 2013

Increasingly, a number of rapidly developing countries, including India, China, Brazil, and others, are becoming global hot spots for the development of regenerative medicine applications, including stem cell-based therapies. Identifying and overcoming regulatory and translational research challenges and promoting scientific and ethical clinical trials with cells will help curb the growth of stem cell tourism for unproven therapies. It will also enable academic investigators, local regulators, and national and international biotechnology and biopharmaceutical companies to accelerate stem cell-based clinical research that could lead to effective innovative treatments in these regions. Using India as a model system and obtaining input from regulators, clinicians, academics, and industry representatives across the stem cell field in India, we reviewed the role of key agencies and processes involved in this field. We have identified areas that need attention and here provide solutions from other established and functioning models in the world to streamline and unify the regulatory and ethics approval processes for cell-based therapies. We also make recommendations to check the growth and functioning of clinics offering unproven treatments. Addressing these issues will remove considerable hurdles to both local and international investigators, accelerate the pace of research and development, and create a quality environment for reliable products to emerge. By doing so, these countries would have taken one important step to move to the forefront of stem cell-based therapeutics.
Un nou testimoni de "Les estil·lades y amoroses lletres trameses per Berthomeu Sirlot a la sua senyora y per ella a ell"
Authors: Vila Pep
Published: July 2013

Resum: Dono a conèixer en edició fascímil, que acompanyo del seu estudi i transcripció, una versió desconeguda, anònima, de Les estil·lades y amoroses lletres…, impreses possiblement a València, en 1610?, en lletra rodona, a partir d’un exemplar incomplet, sense portada, atribuït, amb poques proves, a l’impressor Pere Patrici Mey. L’edició d’aquest exemplar, que presenta alguna lliçó singular, ajudarà en un futur a l’establiment d’una edició crítica d’aquesta obreta epistolar valenciana, de caire renaixentista, important des d’un punt de vista lexicogràfic i dialectològic.Paraules clau: València, Segle XVII, Pere Patricio Mey, Les estil·lades y amoroses lletres, Obra epistolar del Renaixement valenciàAbstract: We present a facsimile edition, study and transcription of an anonymous and unknown version of Les estil·lades y amoroses lletres…Probably this version was printed in Valencia in1610, in Roman print, from an incomplete work –without the title page– supposedly published by the typographer Pere Patrici Mey. The edition of this copy –which offers some special lesson– will contribute to a future critical edition of this little Valencian epistolary work; an important Renaissance work according to lexicographers and dialectologists.Keywords: 17 Century, Pere Patrici Mey, Les estil·lades y amoroses lletres, valencian epistolary work,Renaissance work