bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Germination Responses of Some Forage Species of Eastern Terai, Nepal
Authors: Jha S. N. , Jha P. K.
Published: June 2009

Freshly harvested seeds of the species (legumes: Alysicarpus vaginalis and Desmodium triflorum; grasses. Axonopus compressus and Chrysopogon aciculatus) failed to germinate even after acid scarification and incubation under different light qualities, whereas seven-nine-month old seeds exhibited germination in the order: D. triflorum (23%) > A. compresses (17%) > A. vaginalis (13%) > C. aciculatus (4%) without acid scarification or nutrient treatment. The legumes contained yellowish brown (Yb) and brick-red (Br) seeds in their pods in the ratio of 4:1. The Yb seeds had hard seed covering very slowly permeable to water. Storage of seeds under room conditions in sealed polythene pouches up to three years profoundly inhibited germination in Br seeds but had little effect on Yb seeds. The nine-month-old Br seeds had maximum germination (24 and 38%, respectively in A. vaginalis and D. triflorum) when submerged in water for 24 h before sowing, whereas germination in submerged in water for three days as a pretreatment. Germination in Yb seeds of the same age was 72 and 77%, respectively in A. vaginalis and 84% in D. triflorum when seven-eight-month old seeds were scarified with mixed (Yb and Br) seed lot was 71% in A. vaginalis and 84% in D. triforum when seven-eight-month old seeds were scarified with sulphuric acid for 10 min and incubated under red light for a week. The fresh seeds of A. compressus had 79% in viability (TTC test) which declined to 5% after storage for three years, and nine-month-old caryopses when treated with nitric acid for ten minute and incubated under red light for 18 days had maximum (45%) germination. In C. aciculatus. Seeds had only 37% viability when fresh, and they completely lost viability after storage for two years, and nine-month old caryopses had maximum (17%) germination when treated with 0.5% solution of potassium nitrate and incubated under ordinary condition for 25 days.Key words: Seed attributes; storage; viability; acid scarification; light; imbibition; potassium niratedoi: 10.3126/eco.v13i0.1629Ecoprint (An international Journal of Ecology) Vol.13, 2006 page 49-60
Effect of Coal Smoke Pollution on the Biomass and Chlorophyll Pigments of Brassica juncea
Authors: Saquib Mohammad
Published: June 2009

The effect of coal smoke pollution on the biomass and chlorophyll pigments of Brassica juncea were studied at 0.5, 2, 4, 6 and 20 km distance leeward from a thermal power plant complex. The root, shoot and total biomass and chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b and total chlorophyll were significantly reduced up to a distance of 4 km from the source of pollution. The data indicates that the degree of response increased with decreasing distance from the source of pollution in comparison to the reference site ‘c' situated at 20 km. Biomass and chlorophyll pigments showed a significant and positive relationship with the distance from the source. Key words: Air pollution, Brassica juncea, biomass, chlorophyll.   doi: 10.3126/eco.v15i0.1935 ECOPRINT 15: 1-6, 2008
Seasonal Variation of Edaphic Features of Madhupur Sal Forest, Bangladesh
Authors: Hoque Ahmed Emdadul , Nazrul-Islam A K. M. , Imamul Huq S. M.
Published: June 2009

Seven stands were selected in different areas of the Madhupur Sal (Shorea robusta) forest to study the seasonal variation of available nutrients in soils. Soil samples were collected after every two months at two depths (top soil 0-10 cm and 10-20 cm) and their physicochemical properties were determined. The percentage of soil moisture was found to vary in different stands and pH values of soil ranged from 4.60 to 6.28. Seasonal fluctuation of electrical conductivity was observed. An increasing trend of sodium accumulation was found in both top and sub-soil layers at all the stands. The concentration of potassium also showed a decreasing tendency in both layers. The exchangeable calcium and magnesium contents did not show significant (pH 0.05) seasonal variation. The high values of manganese and iron were confined to top soil and values decreased down the profile. Key words: Shorea robusta, soil, physico-chemical characteristics, seasonal variation.   doi: 10.3126/eco.v15i0.1936 ECOPRINT 15: 7-14, 2008
Species Richness and Biomass Relationship in Burned Sites of Imperata-Saccharum Grassland in Suklaphanta Wildlife Reserve, Nepal
Authors: Pant Pitamber , Lekhak Hari Datt
Published: June 2009

Present study was conducted in the Suklaphanta Wildlife Reserve, Kanchanpur district, far western Nepal during June-July, 2005. A total of 150 quadrats (1m x 1m) were sampled in three differentially treated sites (unburned, early burned and late burned). Plant community composition and above ground biomass at different sites were quantified. The relationship between species richness and biomass was detected in the Imperata-Saccharum grassland. Altogether 100 plant species were recorded in the grassland. The highest number of species (62) was recorded in early burned site, whereas lowest (54) species were recorded from unburned site. Among all species recorded, 23 were common to all sites. The highest species richness (13 species/m²) was recorded in the early burned plot. The above ground biomass was highest (583.93 g/m²) in unburned plot. Mean above ground biomass of all the three sites of the grassland was 249.72 g/m². These results indicate that the burning has significant impact on both species richness and biomass. Maximum species richness was found in the biomass interval between ca. 100-300 g/m² when all the sites were combined. A hump shaped pattern was observed in the grassland when all the data were combined. Key words: Species richness, biomass, generalized linear model, fire.   doi: 10.3126/eco.v15i0.1938 ECOPRINT 15: 23-27, 2008
Effect of some Essential Oils on Seed Germination and Seedling Length of Parthenium hysterophorous L.
Authors: Paudel V. R. , Gupta V.N. P.
Published: June 2009

Effect of plant essential oils on seed germination and seedling growth of Parthenium hysterophorus was examined. Essential oils of Eucalyptus, Camphor, and Lemongrass were used in the experiments at different concentrations (0 to 20 ml.l-1). Water imbibed (36 h) seeds were germinated at 25°C ± 1 in petriplates containing 3 layers of filter papers soaked in distilled water and added with 1.5 ml of a given essential oil of particular concentration. Experiments were carried out taking three replicas. Observations were made at an interval of 24 h from the 4th day of incubation till 20th. All essential oils significantly (P < 0.05) reduced seed germination irrespective of their sources. Effects of plant sources were, however, not significant (P>0.05). Key words: Noxious weed, terpenes, sesquiterpenes, essential oil.   doi: 10.3126/eco.v15i0.1945 ECOPRINT 15: 69-73, 2008
Study of Mitotic Activity and Chromosomal Behaviour in Root Meristem of Allium cepa L. Treated with Magnesium Sulphate
Authors: Bhatta Prabhakar , Sakya S. R.
Published: June 2009

The mitotic activity and chromosomal behaviour was observed in four different concentrations of magnesium sulphate at four different duration of treatment using Allium cepa as a biological system. Mito-inhibitory effect of the compound was observed in higher concentration. The compound was capable of producing various chromosomal abnormalities indicating the cytostatic and clastogenic properties of magnesium sulphate. Key words: Allium cepa, magnesium sulphate, mitotic index, phase indices.doi: 10.3126/eco.v15i0.1947 ECOPRINT 15: 83-88, 2008
A Momentary Lapse of Identity and Control: Straddling Male Collaborations with Professional Instruments
Authors: Olofsson Jennie
Published: June 2009

This article examines the tragic accidents that occurred in Montana and in Colorado where a total of 27 fire fighters lost their lives. While the encompassing interest concerns men operating in male dominated working sites and how homosociality is contingent on artifactual utility, the article specifically discloses the organizational dynamics found among the perished fire fighters and the homosocial practices that may have contributed to the tragic outcomes of these disasters. Not only does homosociality embrace dominance, competitive activities and friendship; it also includes material aspects, which is why the study allocates an understanding of the intimacy between artifacts and performances of masculinity. A theoretical aim of this study advocates collaborative practices between masculinity studies and actor-network theory (ANT). In order to disclose how materiality fosters demonstrations of masculinity and homosocial performances, this article draws on the previously mentioned disasters in the U.S. Additionally interviews with retired fire fighters in a Swedish town provide supplementary sources of information.
Differences in Romanian Men's Online Personals by Sexualities
Authors: Bartoş Sebastian E. , Phua Voon Chin , Avery Erin
Published: June 2009

As Internet usage increases, its ability to provide almost instant connections and to pre-screen potential partners has made it a popular source for meeting people. To contribute to current literature, we examine differences in content between 187 men seeking men and 193 men seeking women in a sample of Romanian (Bucharest) personals in 2007. Results show that men seeking women provide more information about themselves than men seeking men. While the results also show that some Romanian men are more open about expressing their sexualities than others, there are still many obstacles affecting how men choose to share and express their sexualities in Romania.
“If He Comes Home Nervous”: U.S. World War II Neuropsychiatric Casualties and Postwar Masculinities
Authors: Jarvis Christina
Published: June 2009

This essay analyzes representations of psychiatric casualties in advice literature and mainstream news periodicals of the late war (World War II) and early postwar period. Because they explicitly exposed the emotional side of men and challenged a warrior ideal predicated upon bravery, self-mastery, control, and courage under fire, mentally wounded veterans, I argue, became especially important subjects for cultural rehabilitation and remasculinization in the postwar victory culture. In addition to exploring the various rhetorical strategies that writers used to normalize and to remasculinize psychiatric casualties, the article briefly examines some fissures within military ideals of masculinity. Ultimately, I suggest that the relational nature and (re)constructions of these models of manhood highlight the complexity of both the heroic and the abject masculinities created by war.
Critical roles of decompression in functional recovery of ex vivo spinal cord white matter
Authors: Ouyang Hui , Galle Beth , Li Jianming , Nauman Eric , Shi Riyi
Published: June 2009

Object

The correlations between functional deficits, the magnitude of compression, and the role of sustained compression during traumatic spinal cord injury remain largely unknown. Thus, the functional outcome of this type of injury with or without surgical intervention is rather unpredictable. To elucidate how severity and duration of compression affect cord function, the authors have developed a method to study electrophysiological characteristics and axonal membrane damage in white matter from guinea pig spinal cord.

Methods

Ventral white matter strips isolated from adult guinea pigs were compressed by a compression rod at a level of either 60 or 80% and held briefly, for 30 minutes, or for 60 minutes. In half the experimental groups, a decompression phase consisting of probe withdrawal and 30 minutes of recovery was also applied. For all cord samples, functional response was continuously monitored through compound action potential (CAP) recording. In addition, axonal membrane damage was assessed by a horseradish peroxidase (HRP) exclusion assay.

Results

After 30 minutes of sustained compression at levels of 60 or 80%, a spinal cord decompression procedure caused a significant CAP recovery, with specimens reaching 97.5 ± 6.84% (p < 0.05) and 56.2 ± 6.14% (p < 0.05) of preinjury amplitude, respectively. After 60 minutes of compression, the amount of CAP recovery following the decompression stage was only 65.5 ± 9.33% for 60% compression (p < 0.05) and 29.8 ± 6.31% for 80% compression (p < 0.05). Unlike the CAP response, HRP uptake did not increase during sustained compression, and the data showed that HRP staining was primarily time dependent.

Conclusions

The degree of axonal membrane damage is not exacerbated during sustained compression. However, the electrical conductivity of the cord white matter weakens throughout the duration of compression. Therefore, decompression is a viable procedure for preservation of neurological function following compressive injury.
Application of Interleukin-12 Expressing Dendritic Cells for the Treatment of Animal Model of Leukemia
Authors: Tsai Bor-Yu , Lin Yu-Li , Chiang Bor-Luen
Published: June 2009

Residual cancer cells appearing in blood circulation reduce the effects of radiotherapy or chemotherapy in cancer patients. It has been well documented that cultured dendritic cells can be used as a powerful tool to induce immune response. In this study, we administered different manipulations of dendritic cells (DCs), including DCs pulsed with tumor cell lysate (TCL), transfected with adenoviral IL-12 vector (AdIL-12) and transfected with AdIL-12 after being pulsed with TCL, to determine whether improved DCs based immunotherapy can specifically suppress the metastasis of tumor cells. The results demonstrated that administration of engineered DCs that transfected with AdIL-12 after being pulsed with TCL to mice with leukemia had a better protective effect than that of DCs either pulsed with TCL or transfected with AdIL-12. Moreover, depletion of CD8+ cells in the engineered DCs administered leukemia mice reduced the protective effect. These results suggest that DCs modified with TCL and AdIL-12 can prolong survival time by enhancing the activity of cytotoxic T cells. Although more studies on the mechanisms are needed, cytokine genes engineered DCs provide a promising therapeutic potential on the murine model of leukemia.
A SpontaneousSmc1bMutation Causes Cohesin Protein Dysfunction and Sterility in Mice
Authors: Takabayashi Shuji , Yamauchi Yumika , Tsume Mami , Noguchi Motoko , Katoh Hideki
Published: June 2009

In this paper, we describe a novel spontaneous mutation of the Smc1b gene coding a cohesin component, which causes female and male sterility. We have discovered an ICR male mouse with a novel autosomal recessive gene that causes small gonads and sterility in both sexes. Mutant female and male mice homozygous for the novel sterility gene had normal body weights and showed normal mating behavior, but did not produce any offspring. Histological examination showed that Sertoli cells and spermatogonia were present in the testicular seminiferous tubules in 8-week-old mutant male mice, but no spermatids or spermatozoa were observed. Mutant females showed a markedly reduced number of oocytes with age. The novel sterility gene mapped between D15Mit105 (47.9 cM) and D15Mit171 (54.5 cM) on chromosome 15. Sequences of three candidate sterility genes, Dmc1, Mei1 and Smc1b, which are closely linked to these microsatellite markers, were compared between normal and mutant mice. The Dmc1 and Mei1 genes showed the same sequences in both normal and mutant mice, but the Smc1b gene had a deletion of 16 nucleotides in exon 5, in the mutant mice. We concluded that this deletion led to a frame-shift, which generated a stop codon at position 761 (amino acid 247) of the Smc1b cDNA in mutant mice.
A BRIEF COMMUNICATION
Authors: Weng Alexander , Görick Cornelia , Melzig Matthias F.
Published: June 2009

Saponins are amphiphilic substances consisting of a hydrophobic backbone with one or two hydrophilic sugar units. Recently it was shown that saponinum album (SA) from Gypsophila paniculata L. enhanced cytotoxicity of a saporin-based chimeric toxin (up to 385,000-fold) as well as the toxicity of saporin (up to 100,000-fold) with N-glycosidase activity. Previously we have shown that toxicity of other N-glycosidases such as ricin A-chain, nigrin b, and toxins such as diphtheria toxin or microcystin-LR was not enhanced by SA. This points to a specific SA-dependent mechanism of toxicity enhancement on saporin and saporin-based toxins. Although the cytotoxicity enhancing effect was observed in up to 10 different cell lines, nothing is known about the kinetic of SA under cell culture conditions. Therefore SA was titrated, and the uptake respective liberation profile of SA was investigated in ECV-304 cells. Treatment of cells with [3H]-SA leads to an immediate uptake of saponin molecules. After cells were saturated with [3H]-SA, a first equilibrium (first eq.) was reached. The first eq. was disturbed by washing until a second equilibrium was reached between the activity observed within cells and that seen in the supernatant. After a further extensive washing, a small portion of saponin molecules remained durable associated with the cell. This portion was sufficient to induce a drastic toxicity enhancement on saporin indicating a long-lasting sensitization of cells against the toxin.
Molecular Targets of Nutraceuticals Derived from Dietary Spices: Potential Role in Suppression of Inflammation and Tumorigenesis
Authors: Aggarwal Bharat B. , Van Kuiken Michelle E. , Iyer Laxmi H. , Harikumar Kuzhuvelil B. , Sung Bokyung
Published: June 2009

Despite the fact cancer is primarily a preventable disease, recent statistics indicate cancer will become the number one killer worldwide in 2010. Since certain cancers are more prevalent in the people of some countries than others, suggests the role of lifestyle. For instance cancer incidence among people from the Indian subcontinent, where most spices are consumed, is much lower than that in the Western World. Spices have been consumed for centuries for a variety of purposes—as flavoring agents, colorants, and preservatives. However, there is increasing evidence for the importance of plant-based foods in regular diet to lowering the risk of most chronic diseases, so spices are now emerging as more than just flavor aids, but as agents that can not only prevent but may even treat disease. In this article, we discuss the role of 41 common dietary spices with over 182 spice-derived nutraceuticals for their effects against different stages of tumorigenesis. Besides suppressing inflammatory pathways, spice-derived nutraceuticals can suppress survival, proliferation, invasion, and angiogenesis of tumor cells. We discuss how spice-derived nutraceuticals mediate such diverse effects and what their molecular targets are. Overall our review suggests “adding spice to your life” may serve as a healthy and delicious way to ward off cancer and other chronic diseases.
Neuropharmacological Activity of the Pericarp ofPassiflora edulis flavicarpaDegener: Putative Involvement ofC-Glycosylflavonoids
Authors: Sena Ligia Moreiras , Zucolotto Silvana Maria , Reginatto Flávio Henrique , Schenkel Eloir Paulo , De Lima Thereza Christina Monteiro
Published: June 2009

Passiflora edulis has been used in traditional medicine as a sedative and to treat or prevent central disorders such as anxiety and insomnia. In this study, the central effects of the aqueous extract (AE), the butanolic fraction (BF), and the aqueous residual fraction (ARF) obtained from the pericarp of P. edulis flavicarpa were investigated in mice and the possible compounds involved in these putative neuropharmacologic effects were determined. AE, BF, and ARF increased the total time spent in the light compartment of the light:dark box, an anxiolytic-like effect, and AE also potentiated the hypnotic effects of ethyl ether, a sedative effect. The thin layer chromatography and high-performance liquid chromatography analysis indicated the predominance of C-glycosylflavonoids in these extracts and fractions, which were identified as isoorientin, vicenin-2, spinosin, and 6,8-di- C-glycosylchrysin.
Security of the Bennett-Brassard Quantum Key Distribution Protocol against Collective Attacks
Authors: Boyer Michel , Gelles Ran , Mor Tal
Published: June 2009

The theoretical Quantum Key-Distribution scheme of Bennett and Brassard (BB84) has been proven secure against very strong attacks including the collective attacks and the joint attacks. Though the latter are the most general attacks, collective attacks are much easier to analyze, yet, they are conjectured to be as informative to the eavesdropper. Thus, collective attacks are likely to be useful in the analysis of many theoretical and practical schemes that are still lacking a proof of security, including practical BB84 schemes. We show how powerful tools developed in previous works for proving security against the joint attack, are simplified when applied to the security of BB84 against collective attacks whilst providing the same bounds on leaked information and the same error threshold.
Metric Potential of a 3D Measurement System Based on Digital Compact Cameras
Authors: Sanz-Ablanedo Enoc , Rodríguez-Pérez José Ramón , Arias-Sánchez Pedro , Armesto Julia
Published: June 2009

This paper presents an optical measuring system based on low cost, high resolution digital cameras. Once the cameras are synchronised, the portable and adjustable system can be used to observe living beings, bodies in motion, or deformations of very different sizes. Each of the cameras has been modelled individually and studied with regard to the photogrammetric potential of the system. We have investigated the photogrammetric precision obtained from the crossing of rays, the repeatability of results, and the accuracy of the coordinates obtained. Systematic and random errors are identified in validity assessment of the definition of the precision of the system from crossing of rays or from marking residuals in images. The results have clearly demonstrated the capability of a low-cost multiple-camera system to measure with sub-millimetre precision.
Design and Evaluation of a Wireless Sensor Network Based Aircraft Strength Testing System
Authors: Wu Jian , Yuan Shenfang , Zhou Genyuan , Ji Sai , Wang Zilong , Wang Yang
Published: June 2009

The verification of aerospace structures, including full-scale fatigue and static test programs, is essential for structure strength design and evaluation. However, the current overall ground strength testing systems employ a large number of wires for communication among sensors and data acquisition facilities. The centralized data processing makes test programs lack efficiency and intelligence. Wireless sensor network (WSN) technology might be expected to address the limitations of cable-based aeronautical ground testing systems. This paper presents a wireless sensor network based aircraft strength testing (AST) system design and its evaluation on a real aircraft specimen. In this paper, a miniature, high-precision, and shock-proof wireless sensor node is designed for multi-channel strain gauge signal conditioning and monitoring. A cluster-star network topology protocol and application layer interface are designed in detail. To verify the functionality of the designed wireless sensor network for strength testing capability, a multi-point WSN based AST system is developed for static testing of a real aircraft undercarriage. Based on the designed wireless sensor nodes, the wireless sensor network is deployed to gather, process, and transmit strain gauge signals and monitor results under different static test loads. This paper shows the efficiency of the wireless sensor network based AST system, compared to a conventional AST system.
RoPEUS: A New Robust Algorithm for Static Positioning in Ultrasonic Systems
Authors: Prieto José Carlos , Croux Christophe , Jiménez Antonio Ramón
Published: June 2009

A well known problem for precise positioning in real environments is the presence of outliers in the measurement sample. Its importance is even bigger in ultrasound based systems since this technology needs a direct line of sight between emitters and receivers. Standard techniques for outlier detection in range based systems do not usually employ robust algorithms, failing when multiple outliers are present. The direct application of standard robust regression algorithms fails in static positioning (where only the current measurement sample is considered) in real ultrasound based systems mainly due to the limited number of measurements and the geometry effects. This paper presents a new robust algorithm, called RoPEUS, based on MM estimation, that follows a typical two-step strategy: 1) a high breakdown point algorithm to obtain a clean sample, and 2) a refinement algorithm to increase the accuracy of the solution. The main modifications proposed to the standard MM robust algorithm are a built in check of partial solutions in the first step (rejecting bad geometries) and the off-line calculation of the scale of the measurements. The algorithm is tested with real samples obtained with the 3D-LOCUS ultrasound localization system in an ideal environment without obstacles. These measurements are corrupted with typical outlying patterns to numerically evaluate the algorithm performance with respect to the standard parity space algorithm. The algorithm proves to be robust under single or multiple outliers, providing similar accuracy figures in all cases.
Coronatine Gene Expression In Vitro and In Planta, and Protein Accumulation During Temperature Downshift in Pseudomonas syringae
Authors: Braun Yvonne , Smirnova Angela , Weingart Helge , Schenk Alexander , Ullrich Matthias
Published: June 2009

The plant pathogenic bacterium Pseudomonas syringae PG4180 synthesizes high levels of the phytotoxin coronatine (COR) at the virulence-promoting temperature of 18 °C, but negligible amounts at 28 °C. Temperature-dependent COR gene expression is regulated by a modified two-component system, consisting of a response regulator, CorR, the histidine protein kinase CorS, and a third component, termed CorP. We analyzed at transcriptional and translational levels the expression of corS and the cma operon involved in COR biosynthesis after a temperature downshift from 28 to 18 °C. Expression of cma was induced within 20 min and increased steadily whereas corS expression was only slightly temperature-dependent. Accumulation of CmaB correlated with accumulation of cma mRNA. However, cma transcription was suppressed by inhibition of de novo protein biosynthesis. A transcriptional fusion of the cma promoter to a promoterless egfp gene was used to monitor the cma expression in vitro and in planta. A steady induction of cma::egfp by temperature downshift was observed in both environments. The results indicate that PG4180 responds to a temperature decrease with COR gene expression. However, COR gene expression and protein biosynthesis increased steadily, possibly reflecting adaptation to long-term rather than rapid temperature changes.
Development of Membrane Selective Electrode for Determination of the Antipsychotic Sulpiride in Pharmaceuticals and Urine
Authors: García Mª Soledad , Ortuño Joaquín A. , Albero Mª Isabel , Abuherba Mustafa Salem
Published: June 2009

The construction and electrochemical response characteristics of a poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) membrane selective electrode for the determination of sulpiride (SPD) are described. The sensing membrane comprised an ion-exchanger formed between the protonated drug and tetraphenylborate (TPB-) in a plasticized PVC matrix. The influence of membrane composition on the electrode response was studied. The electrode showed a fast, stable and Nernstian response over a sulpiride concentration range (1 × 10-4– 1 × 10-2 M) with a mean slope of 58.4 ± 0.9 mV dec-1 of concentration, a mean detection limit of 4.2 × 10-5 ± 1.2 × 10-5 M, a wide working pH range (2 – 8) and a fast response time (< 15 s). The electrode showed good selectivity towards sulpiride with respect to some inorganic and organic compounds. When the electrode was applied to the determination of sulpiride in pharmaceuticals and human urine, a high percentage of recovery was attained with no need for sample pretreatment procedures because of the lack of interfering matrix effects.
Improving the Sustainability of Office Partition Manufacturing: Balancing Options for Reducing Emissions of Volatile Organic Compounds
Authors: Luisser Frank  S. , Rosen Marc  A.
Published: June 2009

Options are examined to improve the sustainability of office partition manufacturing by reducing volatile organic compounds (VOC) emissions. Base VOC emissions for a typical plant are estimated using a mass balance approach. Pollution prevention and sustainability measures are assessed using realistic criteria and weightings. Sustainability has been considered from an industry perspective, considering factors like economics, environmental impact, quality, health and safety. Through a case study, it is demonstrated that several advantageous options are available for reducing VOC emissions in manufacturing office furniture partitions, and thereby enhancing the sustainability of that industrial operation. The measures deemed most viable include implementing several best management practices, not painting of non-visible parts, switching gluing processes, recycling solvent and modifying attachments. The results are intended to be balanced so as to improve their acceptability and adoptability by industry. It appears that it would be advantageous for manufacturers of office panels to evaluate the feasibility of these measures and to implement the most appropriate. The results are likely extendable to other operations in the wood furniture industry, and would improve their sustainability.
KNOWLEDGE MODEL FOR POST‐DISASTER MANAGEMENT
Authors: Kaklauskas Artūras , Amaratunga Dilanthi , Haigh Richard
Published: June 2009

The main aim of this research is to help post‐disaster managers to find most rational solutions by using advanced knowledge and developed Model. Post‐disaster management is shared, purposeful activities based upon the development of common understandings and interpretations of means and ends. Stakeholders generate the personal and group decisions which contribute to post‐disaster management success. This article describes the development (during EurAsia project) of a Knowledge Model for Post‐disaster Management based upon multiple criteria decision making theory. The developed Model involves six stages that help to determine rational post‐disaster management alternatives by evaluating post‐disaster management’ life cycle, stakeholders, micro and macro environment.

Santruka

Pagrindinis šio darbo tikslas - padeti asmenims, kurie vadovauja darbams likviduojant stichiniu nelaimiu padarinius, rasti racionaliausius sprendimus, naudojant pažangias žinias ir sukurta modeli. Vadyba po stichiniu nelaimiu ‐ tai bendra, tikslinga veikla, grindžiama priemoniu ir bendro tikslu supratimo bei interpretavimo kūrimu. Suinteresuotos grupes priima asmeninius ir grupinius sprendimus, kurie prisideda prie vadybos po stichiniu nelaimiu sekmes. Šiame straipsnyje aprašoma, kaip buvo sukurtas vadybos po stichiniu nelaimiu žiniu modelis (vykdant EurAsia projekta), pagristas daugiakriterinio sprendimu priemimo teorija. Sukurta modeli sudaro šešios dalys, padedančios nustatyti racionalias vadybos po stichiniu nelaimiu alternatyvas, ivertinant vadybos po stichiniu nelaimiu gyvavimo cikla, suinteresuotas grupes, mikro‐ ir makroaplinka.
A HUMAN‐COMPUTER INTERACTION PRINCIPLES BASED FRAMEWORK TO ASSESS THE USER PERCEPTION OF WEB BASED VIRTUAL RESEARCH ENVIRONMENTS
Authors: Keraminiyage Kaushal , Amaratunga Dilanthi , Haigh Richard
Published: June 2009

Due to various challenges and opportunities such as globalisation of research agenda and advancements in information and communication technologies, research collaborations (both international and national) have become popular during the last decade more than ever before. Within this context, the concept of Virtual Research Environments(VRE) is an emerging concept looking at addressing the complex challenges associated with conducting collaborative research. Even though concept of VRE is at its infancy, it is important to assess user perception about those, both to establish its success of uptake and future development strategies. However, to date, there is no formal method established to evaluate VREs .This paper reports a strategy adopted within an international collaborative research project (EURASIA) to evaluate its custom built VRE, VEBER, using the well known Computer Human Interaction principles.

Santruka

Ivairiausi iššūkiai ir galimybes, tokios kaip planuojamu moksliniu tyrimu globalizacija ir informacijos bei komunikacijos technologiju pažanga, pastaraji dešimtmeti leme didesni nei bet kada tiriamojo bendradarbiavimo (ir tarptautinio, ir nacionalinio) populiaruma. Šiame kontekste virtualiosios moksliniu tyrimu aplinkos (VMTA) savoka – tai gimstanti savoka, kuria siekiama imtis sudetingu iššūkiu, susijusiu su tiriamuoju bendradarbiavimu. Nors VMTA savoka kol kas žengia pirmuosius žingsnius, svarbu ivertinti, kaip vartotojai ja suvokia, siekdami nustatyti, kaip jai seksis prigyti, ir būsimasias pletros strategijas. Tačiau formalaus metodo VMTA vertinti kol kas nera. Šiame darbe pristatoma strategija, taikyta tarptautiniame moksliniu tyrimu bendradarbiavimo projekte (EURASIA), nes norima ivertinti specialiai tam sukurta VMTA, pavadinta VEBER, naudojant gerai žinomus kompiuterio ir žmogaus saveikos principus.
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT IN POST DISASTER RE‐CONSTRUCTION ‐ CASE STUDY OF THE BRITISH RED CROSS MALDIVES RECOVERY PROGRAM
Authors: Lawther Peter M.
Published: June 2009

Community involvement in post disaster re‐construction is an important ingredient to the overall success of housing and infrastructure redevelopment. Implementing Agencies and governments need to design post disaster re‐construction programs which promote the involvement of beneficiaries and communities in post disaster re‐construction programs, to the extent allowed by the scale and context of any given situation. By extension, the management and organisational capacities which enable community involvement in a post disaster re‐construction project need to be identified and developed to facilitate this process. The British Red Cross Maldives post – tsunami recovery program is presented as a case study to identify successes, limitations, and lessons learnt from one such project. The case study is examined to identify capacity building opportunities for community involvement in future post disaster re‐construction projects. These opportunities are presented in terms of the project procurement model chosen for implementation, active and passive methods of community involvement, and the personal skills and management structure required to facilitate community involvement in post disaster re‐construction projects.

Santruka

Bendruomenes indelis i aplinkos atstatyma po stichiniu nelaimiu ‐ svarbus komponentas, padedantis sekmingai atkurti būstus ir infrastruktūra. Tai igyvendinančioms istaigoms ir vyriausybems būtina kurti atstatymo po stichiniu nelaimiu programas, skatinančias nukentejusiuosius ir bendruomenes dalyvauti tokiose programose, kiek tai imanoma, atsižvelgiant i konkrečios situacijos masta ir konteksta. Platesne prasme, norint išplesti ši procesa, reikia nustatyti ir išpletoti vadybos bei organizacines galimybes, leidžiančias bendruomenei dalyvauti atstatymo po stichiniu nelaimiu projekte. Atvejui tirti pasirinkta atkūrimo po cunamio programa, kuria Maldyvuose vykdo Didžiosios Britanijos Raudonasis kryžius. Tyrimu siekiama nustatyti konkretaus projekto sekmes, apribojimus, jo metu išmoktas pamokas. Atvejis nagrinejamas siekiant nustatyti, ar imanoma sukurti salygas, kurios leistu bendruomenei dalyvauti būsimuosiuose atstatymo po stichines nelaimes projektuose. Tokios galimybes pristatomos imant igyvendinti pasirinkta projekto pirkimu modeli, aktyvius ir pasyvius bendruomenes dalyvavimo metodus bei asmeninius igūdžius ir vadybos struktūra, kurie būtini, idant bendruomene galetu dalyvauti atstatymo po stichiniu nelaimiu projektuose.
Motivating Registered Nurses to Return for an Advanced Degree
Authors: Warren Joan Insalaco , Mills Mary Etta
Published: June 2009

Master's-prepared nurses are required as faculty and educators in the hospital setting to meet the increasing demands of today's health care environment. A non-experimental, descriptive study design was used to examine nurses' preferences for organizational incentives and rewards that might motivate them to return for an advanced nursing degree. Using findings from this research study, a grant was developed and funded to address the need to both fill expected vacancies in the nursing work force and reduce the clinical nursing instructor shortage through a strategic academia and service partnership. A cohort model and mentorship program to identify nurses and then encourage and assist them in matriculating and completing an advanced degree in nursing was developed. One expected outcome of the proposed collaborative arrangement is to increase the number of registered nurses prepared at the graduate level to create a pool of individuals qualified to serve as clinical instructors, faculty, and preceptors while maintaining their hospital positions. Another expected outcome is to provide a path for nurses to pursue graduate education.

J Contin Educ Nurs
2009;40(5):200–207.
Is This the Right Patient? An Educational Initiative to Improve Compliance With Two Patient Identifiers
Authors: Mollon Deene' L. , Fields Willa L.
Published: June 2009

A rehabilitation nursing unit implemented an educational initiative to improve compliance with two patient identifiers. The education consisted of a poster presentation and then, 2 months later, a mandatory in-service education program. Compliance with two patient identifiers improved, although more improvement was demonstrated after the mandatory in-service. The results of this performance improvement project suggest that investing time and money in safety initiatives improves staff practice patterns.

J Contin Educ Nurs
2009;40(5):221–227.
Can Summits Lead to Curricula Change? An Evaluation of Emergency Preparedness Summits for Schools of Nursing in Georgia
Authors: Buyum Arielle , Dubruiel Nicole , Torghele Karen , Alperin Melissa , Miner Kathleen R.
Published: June 2009

The Emory University Center for Public Health Preparedness held two summits for nurses that were evaluated by survey. Participants cited multiple deficiencies and challenges with integrating emergency preparedness into nursing curricula. The summits and the related materials were reported as highly useful by survey respondents. More than three fourths of respondents reported incorporating emergency preparedness education into their curricula after summit attendance. Nursing professionals could use summits to encourage active practitioners to pursue continuing education and to initiate efforts to incorporate emergency preparedness and related health care issues into the curricula of schools of nursing.

J Contin Educ Nurs
2009;40(5):210–215.
Easing the Transition: A Successful New Graduate Program
Authors: Strauss Mary Beth
Published: June 2009

The shortage of registered nurses is expected to grow. Nursing administrators struggle to recruit and retain nurses for these vacancies. This article explores the components of a successful new graduate program. This program serves as the foundation of succession planning for this organization. Improvements that have been made to the program and lessons learned are described.

J Contin Educ Nurs
2009;40(5):216–220.
Cement Oscillation Increases Interlock Strength at the Cement–Bone Interface
Authors: Wang Yi , Han Pengfei , Gu Wenguang , Shi Zuowei , Li Dabin , Wang Changli
Published: June 2009

Modern cementing techniques aim to improve the interlock between bone and cement and to establish a durable interface. Cement penetration is generally believed to influence interface failure, but current methods for improving the cement–bone interface are inadequate. Oscillation is the reciprocated movement of an object through its balanced position, or the quantum physics of systematic fluctuation back and forth near an average value (or trimmed value). To increase the interlock strength at the cement–bone interface, we designed a cement oscillator according to the principles of vibrational mechanics. To evaluate the effect of oscillation on the quality of interlock strength at the cement–bone interface, we randomly divided 156 femoral bones of adult pigs into 2 groups, oscillated and control, and performed mechanical tests to assess interlock strength at the cement–bone interface. The filling effect of bone cement was observed and analyzed under a stereomicroscope, and then each oscillated femur was compared with a control femur. The interlock strength at the cement–bone interface in the oscillated group was significantly greater than in the control group (
P
<.05), and the filling effect in the oscillated group was also better than that in the control group (
P
<.05). Our findings show that oscillation of bone cement significantly increases interlock strength at the cement–bone interface, point the way for clinicians to develop a high-performance and pragmatic fixation technique for prostheses to increase interlock strength, and will be of considerable practical importance in helping to prevent aseptic loosening of cemented prostheses.

See full article online for commentary by Dr Søren Overgaard.
Tumors of the Sacrum
Authors: Mavrogenis Andreas F. , Patapis Pavlos , Kostopanagiotou Georgia , Papagelopoulos Panayiotis J.
Published: June 2009

Educational Objectives

As a result of reading this article, physicians should be able to:

1.

Describe the clinical signs and symptoms, imaging, and histological features of the most common and the rarest primary benign and malignant bone and soft tissue tumors of the sacrum.

2.

Discuss the indications, techniques, and complications of surgical and adjuvant treatments for the tumors of the sacrum.

3.

List the indications and techniques for lumbopelvic stabilization.

4.

Recognize the potential complications associated with partial and total sacrectomy and reconstruction for tumors of the sacrum.
Small Interfering RNA against Transcription Factor STAT6 Inhibits Allergic Airway Inflammation and Hyperreactivity in Mice
Authors: Darcan-Nicolaisen Yasemin , Meinicke Holger , Fels Gabriele , Hegend Olga , Haberland Annekathrin , Kühl Anja , Loddenkemper Christoph , Witzenrath Martin , Kube Stefanie , Henke Wolfgang , Hamelmann Eckard
Published: June 2009

In the context of allergic immune responses, activation of STAT6 is pivotal for Th2-mediated IgE production and development of airway inflammation and hyperreactivity. We analyzed whether gene silencing of STAT6 expression by RNA interference was able to suppress allergen-induced immune and airway responses. Knockdown effectiveness of three different STAT6 siRNA molecules was analyzed in murine and human cell cultures. The most potent siRNA was used for further testing in a murine model of allergen-induced airway inflammation and airway hyperreactivity (AHR). BALB/c mice were sensitized with OVA/alum twice i.p. (days 1 and 14), and challenged via the airways with allergen (days 28–30). Intranasal application of STAT6 siRNA before and during airway allergen challenges reduced levels of infiltrating cells, especially of eosinophils, in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, compared with GFP siRNA-treated sensitized and challenged controls. Allergen-induced alterations in lung tissues (goblet cell hyperplasia, peribronchial inflammation with eosinophils and CD4 T cells) were significantly reduced after STAT6 siRNA treatment. Associated with decreased inflammation was a significant inhibition of the development of allergen-induced in vivo AHR after STAT6 siRNA treatment, compared with GFP siRNA-treated sensitized and challenged controls. Importantly, mRNA and protein expression levels of IL-4 and IL-13 in lung tissues of STAT6-siRNA treated mice were significantly diminished compared with sensitized and challenged controls. These data show that targeting the key transcription factor STAT6 by siRNA effectively blocks the development of cardinal features of allergic airway disease, like allergen-induced airway inflammation and AHR. It may thus be considered as putative approach for treatment of allergic airway diseases such as asthma.
Mechanism and Repertoire of ASC-Mediated Gene Expression
Authors: Hasegawa Mizuho , Imamura Ryu , Motani Kou , Nishiuchi Takumi , Matsumoto Norihiko , Kinoshita Takeshi , Suda Takashi
Published: June 2009

Apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a caspase recruitment domain (ASC) is an adaptor molecule that mediates inflammatory and apoptotic signals. Although the role of ASC in caspase-1-mediated IL-1β and IL-18 maturation is well known, ASC also induces NF-κB activation and cytokine gene expression in human cells. In this study, we investigated the molecular mechanism and repertoire of ASC-induced gene expression in human cells. We found that the specific activation of ASC induced AP-1 activity, which was required for optimal IL8 promoter activity. ASC activation also induced STAT3-, but not STAT1-, IFN-stimulated gene factor 3- or NF-AT-dependent reporter gene expression. The ASC-mediated AP-1 activation was NF-κB-independent and primarily cell-autonomous response, whereas the STAT3 activation required NF-κB activation and was mediated by a factor that can act in a paracrine manner. ASC-mediated AP-1 activation was inhibited by chemical or protein inhibitors for caspase-8, caspase-8-targeting small-interfering RNA, and p38 and JNK inhibitors, but not by a caspase-1 inhibitor, caspase-9 or Fas-associated death domain protein (FADD) dominant-negative mutants, FADD- or RICK-targeting small-interfering RNAs, or a MEK inhibitor, indicating that the ASC-induced AP-1 activation is mediated by caspase-8, p38, and JNK, but does not require caspase-1, caspase-9, FADD, RICK, or ERK. DNA microarray analyses identified 75 genes that were induced by ASC activation. A large proportion of them was related to transcription (23%), inflammation (21%), or cell death (16%), indicating that ASC is a potent inducer of inflammatory and cell death-related genes. This is the first report of ASC-mediated AP-1 activation and the repertoire of genes induced downstream of ASC activation.