bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Juvenile Bullous Pemphigoid – a Case Report
Authors: Kostić Kristina , Kandolf Sekulović Lidija , Zečević Radoš D.
Published: June 2013

Bullous pemphigoid is an autoimmune blistering disease that predominantly affects elderly persons and rarely children. We present a 12-year-old girl with sudden appearance of tense blisters on an erythematous base on the trunk, neck, hands and legs with intense pruritus. Standard laboratory test results were within the normal range except for blood eosinophilia of 12% of the total white cell count. Skin biopsy specimens showed evolving subepidermal blisters with perivascular lymphohistiocytic, eosinophil and neutrophil infiltrations in the papillary dermis. Direct immunofluorescence of perilesional skin showed linear, continuous deposits of IgG and C3 along the dermoepidermal junction. Indirect immunofluorescence showed circulating anti-basement membrane zone IgG autoantibodies at a titer of 1:80. We started treatment with systemic corticosteroids, methylprednisolone 0,5 mg/kg per day and 500 mg erythromycin 4 times a day during 10 days. After 3 days 50 mg dapsone (DDS, 4,4-diaminodiphenylsulphone) per day was added. After a few days, there were no new changes on the skin and pruritus disappeared completely.
Comparative Spectral Analysis and Correlation Properties of Observed and Simulated Total Column Ozone Records
Authors: Homonnai Viktória , Jánosi Imre , Lefèvre Franck , Marchand Marion
Published: June 2013

We present a statistical analysis of total column ozone records obtained from satellite measurements and from two global climate chemistry models on global scale. Firstly, a spectral weight analysis is performed where the relative strength of semiannual, annual and quasi-biennial oscillations are determined with respect to the integrated power spectra. The comparison reveals some anomalies in the model representations at each spectral component. The tails of the spectra demonstrate that both models underestimate high frequency (daily) ozone variability, which might have a complex origin, since several dynamical processes affect short time changes of the ozone level at a given location. Secondly, detrended fluctuation analysis is exploited to analyze two-point correlations of anomaly time series. Both models reproduce the characteristic geographic dependence of correlation strength over the overlapping area with empirical observations (latitude band between 60°S and 60°N). The values of precise correlation exponents are hard to obtain over regions where quasi-biennial oscillations or other strong nonstationarities (ozone hole) are present. In spite of all the numerical difficulties, significant long range correlations are detected for total ozone over all geographic locations.
Correction: Chen, Y.-C.; Yeh, H.-C.; Wei, C. Estimation of River Pollution Index in a Tidal Stream Using Kriging Analysis. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2012, 9, 3085-3100.
Authors: Chen Yen-Chang , Yeh Hui-Chung , Wei Chiang
Published: June 2013

The authors wish to add the following amendments and corrections on their paper published in IJERPH [1].
Targeting Alternative Sites on the Androgen Receptor to Treat Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer
Authors: Lallous Nada , Dalal Kush , Cherkasov Artem , Rennie Paul
Published: June 2013

Recurrent, metastatic prostate cancer continues to be a leading cause of cancer-death in men. The androgen receptor (AR) is a modular, ligand-inducible transcription factor that regulates the expression of genes that can drive the progression of this disease, and as a consequence, this receptor is a key therapeutic target for controlling prostate cancer. The current drugs designed to directly inhibit the AR are called anti-androgens, and all act by competing with androgens for binding to the androgen/ligand binding site. Unfortunately, with the inevitable progression of the cancer to castration resistance, many of these drugs become ineffective. However, there are numerous other regulatory sites on this protein that have not been exploited therapeutically. The regulation of AR activity involves a cascade of complex interactions with numerous chaperones, co-factors and co-regulatory proteins, leading ultimately to direct binding of AR dimers to specific DNA androgen response elements within the promoter and enhancers of androgen-regulated genes. As part of the family of nuclear receptors, the AR is organized into modular structural and functional domains with specialized roles in facilitating their inter-molecular interactions. These regions of the AR present attractive, yet largely unexploited, drug target sites for reducing or eliminating androgen signaling in prostate cancers. The design of small molecule inhibitors targeting these specific AR domains is only now being realized and is the culmination of decades of work, including crystallographic and biochemistry approaches to map the shape and accessibility of the AR surfaces and cavities. Here, we review the structure of the AR protein and describe recent advancements in inhibiting its activity with small molecules specifically designed to target areas distinct from the receptor’s androgen binding site. It is anticipated that these new classes of anti-AR drugs will provide an additional arsenal to treat castration-resistant prostate cancer.
N6-Benzyladenosine Derivatives as Novel N-Donor Ligands of Platinum(II) Dichlorido Complexes
Authors: Štarha Pavel , Popa Igor , Trávníček Zdeněk , Vančo Ján
Published: June 2013

The platinum(II) complexes trans-[PtCl2(Ln)2]∙xSolv 1–13 (Solv = H2O or CH3OH), involving N6-benzyladenosine-based N-donor ligands, were synthesized; Ln stands for N6-(2-methoxybenzyl)adenosine (L1, involved in complex 1), N6-(4-methoxy-benzyl)adenosine (L2, 2), N6-(2-chlorobenzyl)adenosine (L3, 3), N6-(4-chlorobenzyl)-adenosine (L4, 4), N6-(2-hydroxybenzyl)adenosine (L5, 5), N6-(3-hydroxybenzyl)-adenosine (L6, 6), N6-(2-hydroxy-3-methoxybenzyl)adenosine (L7, 7), N6-(4-fluoro-benzyl)adenosine (L8, 8), N6-(4-methylbenzyl)adenosine (L9, 9), 2-chloro-N6-(3-hydroxy-benzyl)adenosine (L10, 10), 2-chloro-N6-(4-hydroxybenzyl)adenosine (L11, 11), 2-chloro-N6-(2-hydroxy-3-methoxybenzyl)adenosine (L12, 12) and 2-chloro-N6-(2-hydroxy-5-methylbenzyl)adenosine (L13, 13). The compounds were characterized by elemental analysis, mass spectrometry, IR and multinuclear (1H-, 13C-, 195Pt- and 15N-) and two-dimensional NMR spectroscopy, which proved the N7-coordination mode of the appropriate N6-benzyladenosine derivative and trans-geometry of the title complexes. The complexes 1–13 were found to be non-toxic in vitro against two selected human cancer cell lines (HOS and MCF7; with IC50 > 50.0 µM). However, they were found (by ESI-MS study) to be able to interact with the physiological levels of the sulfur-containing biogenic biomolecule L-methionine by a relatively simple 1:1 exchange mechanism (one Ln molecule was replaced by one L-methionine molecule), thus forming a mixed-nitrogen/sulfur-ligand dichlorido-platinum(II) coordination species.
Protection of Dietary Polyphenols against Oral Cancer
Authors: Ding Yijian , Yao Hua , Yao Yanan , Fai Leonard , Zhang Zhuo
Published: June 2013

Oral cancer represents a health burden worldwide with approximate 275,000 new cases diagnosed annually. Its poor prognosis is due to local tumor invasion and frequent lymph node metastasis. Better understanding and development of novel treatments and chemo-preventive approaches for the preventive and therapeutic intervention of this type of cancer are necessary. Recent development of dietary polyphenols as cancer preventives and therapeutic agents is of great interest due to their antioxidant and anti-carcinogenic activities. Polyphenols may inhibit carcinogenesis in the stage of initiation, promotion, or progression. In particular, dietary polyphenols decrease incidence of carcinomas and exert protection against oral cancer by induction of cell death and inhibition of tumor growth, invasion, and metastasis. In this review, we discuss current progress of dietary polyphenols against oral cancers in vitro, in vivo, and at population levels.
Determinants of pH-Dependent Modulation of Translocation in Dermonecrotic G-Protein-Deamidating Toxins
Authors: Repella Tana , Ho Mengfei , Wilson Brenda
Published: June 2013

Cytotoxic necrotizing factors from E. coli (CNF1, CNF2) and Yersinia (CNFy) share N-terminal sequence similarity with Pasteurella multocida toxin (PMT). This common N-terminal region harbors the receptor-binding and translocation domains that mediate uptake and delivery of the C-terminal catalytic cargo domains into the host cytosol. Subtle variations in the N-terminal ~500 amino acids of CNFs and PMT could allow for selective recognition of cellular receptors and thus, selective target cell specificity. Through studies with cellular inhibitors, we have identified an additional novel function for this region in modulating responses of these toxin proteins to changes in pH during intoxication and delivery of the catalytic cargo domain into the cytosol.
Euripide, Bacchantes 402-408, et le fleuve de Paphos
Authors: Masson Olivier
Published: June 2013

Un passage souvent discuté d'Euripide, dans le second chœur des Bacchantes, mentionne Chypre et Aphrodite. On essaie ici de défendre le texte transmis, contre deux corrections qui ont eu plus ou moins de succès. Au v. 407, on doit conserver βαρβάρου et éliminer définitivement une correction Βωκάρου faisant intervenir indûment à Chypre un fleuve «Bôkaros». Au v. 406, il faudrait maintenir la mention attendue de Paphos, au lieu de corriger en «Pharos» et d'imaginer une allusion au Nil. Enfin, le fleuve de Paphos, qui n'est pas nommé chez Euripide, pourrait bien être le Satrachos, cours d'eau mentionné par Lycophron, Catulle et Nonnos, ce dernier le situant précisément près de l'Ancienne-Paphos, en relation avec la légende d'Aphrodite.
Autobiographie et héritage dans la langue des dieux : d'Homère à Hésiode et Pindare
Authors: Bader Françoise
Published: June 2013

Des indications autobiographiques concernant des lieux sont cachées chez trois poètes grecs de la langue des dieux : Homère, dans l'Illiade (Myrinè), puis Hésiode (Eubée) et Pindare (Cynoscéphales). Ce sont des signatures d'artistes, auxquels les textes de leurs prédécesseurs ont dû être expliqués dans des écoles de poètes, si bien qu'ils s'inspirent les uns des autres. Cet enseignement a aussi été relatif à l'ordre du monde, qui comporte la mort (exemple de l'Iliade), ainsi qu'une naissance bisexuée et une légitimité sociale (Hésiode, Pindare), deux thèmes également enseignés au poète hittite de la langue des dieux. Les traditions grecque et hittite de cette langue en effet pour la thématique propre au microcosme, héritage conceptuel conservé par ces poètes grecs qui ont innové par l'insertion de mentions autobiographiques propres à leurs univers personnel ; elles le font aussi pour les données relatives au cosmos, fournies par Homère dans l'Odyssée, Hésiode, Pindare, et le poète hittite, ainsi qu'on le montrera dans la seconde partie de cette étude.
APPLICATION OF RISK ANALYSIS WITHIN VALUE MANAGEMENT: A CASE STUDY IN DAM ENGINEERING
Authors: Rohaninejad Mohsen , Bagherpour Morteza
Published: June 2013

Nowadays, considering uncertainties and complexities in dam engineering problems, implementation of risk analysis is essential more than before. On the other hand, reliability analysis is an efficient approach which can be applied in order to quantify the identified risks. By applying such analyses, a designer can therefore define and develop different scenarios in order to evaluate the effect of identified risks. The risk management process can be further implemented within a value management cycle where the potential alternatives should be evaluated and finally the best-known alternative must be selected. In order to measure the efficiency of risk analysis approach in a dam, a case study is studied and then implemented. The result of the reliability analysis for the piping phase shows a conservative approach with a low risk during the dam design process. Based on the value analysis, two different scenarios are then developed. In the first scenario, the piping phase is considered as a high risk issue; and in the second scenario, the risk is considered as its minimum acceptable threshold. Based on the obtained results, this can be summarized: utilizing risk analysis for improvement of the decision-making process can be efficiently defined and developed as a fundamental strategy in water resource projects.
DAMAGE IDENTIFICATION AND ASSESSMENT IN RC STRUCTURES USING VIBRATION DATA: A REVIEW
Authors: Fayyadh Moatasem Mohammed , Razak Hashim Abdul
Published: June 2013

Inspection of structural components for damage is essential to decision-making for the maintenance of such structures. There have been many studies to assess the reinforced concrete (RC) structural elements. However, the experimental approach is still based on the conventional static test, which is time-consuming, costly, has intensive equipment and labour requirements and causes major disruptions to the existing use. Modal testing provides an integrated approach, i.e. both local and global characteristics can be ascertained for structural assessment. Depending on the accessibility to damage elements, little or no disruption to the existing use is incurred during testing works. The approach towards structural assessment work provides not only a viable but also a robust, less expensive and powerful alternative to conventional techniques. This paper presents the background of the behaviour of the RC material at different loading and unloading conditions, in order to understand its effect on the modal parameters. The use of modal testing for support stiffness deterioration is highlighted and studies on the use of modal testing for classification of damage source are presented. Studies on the use of modal testing for detection of damage severity and location algorithms and procedures are also presented.
EVALUATION AND COMPARISON OF SURFACE MACROTEXTURE AND FRICTION MEASUREMENT METHODS
Authors: Sezen Halil , Fisco Nicholas
Published: June 2013

Two- and three-dimensional macrotexture characteristics of various surfaces were measured using five different testing methods including sand patch method, laser profiler, laser texture scanner, circular texture meter, and x-ray computed tomography (CT) scanning. A dynamic friction tester was also used to measure the friction resistance of the same surfaces. Asphalt and Portland cement concrete samples of various mix designs and finishes and other commonly manufactured textured samples were used. Relationship between the macrotexture and friction was investigated. Mean texture depth (MTD) of 26 laboratory specimens was obtained from volumetric sand patch tests. Two-dimensional profiles and mean profile depth (MPD) of specimens were measured by a laser profiler. A laser texture scanner and a circular texture meter were also used to calculate the MPD of sample surfaces. Three-dimensional rendering of the surfaces were obtained from laser texture scanner and x-ray CT scans. Using the experimental data collected in this study, relationships between friction resistance and macrotexture obtained from different methods were investigated. The estimated texture depths predicted from laser profiler, laser texture scanner, and CT meter were comparable to the MTD obtained from sand patch tests. Also, the friction resistance increased with increasing surface macrotexture.
METHODOLOGY FOR NON-DESTRUCTIVE IDENTIFICATION OF THICKNESS OF UNILATERALLY ACCESSIBLE CONCRETE ELEMENTS BY MEANS OF STATE-OF-THE-ART ACOUSTIC TECHNIQUES
Authors: Schabowicz Krzysztof
Published: June 2013

The paper presents a methodology for comprehensive use of ultrasonic tomography and impact-echo – the state-of-the-art acoustic techniques – for non-destructive identification of the thickness of unilaterally accessible concrete elements. Since the techniques are not commonly used, they are little known. Therefore, a brief description of the techniques is given to facilitate the understanding of the subsequently presented methodology. The article gives a practical example of the use of the methodology, which demonstrates its suitability for non-destructive identification of the thickness of concrete elements, particularly those only accessible from one side. In the example, the concrete shell of a heat pipe, carrying tunnel located under a river was tested using the ultrasonic tomography and impact-echo techniques. The tests were carried out according to the proposed methodology. It should be noted that the test results yielded by the two methods were similar. In this way, the proposed methodology has been validated.
FRACTURE OF CONCRETE CONTAINING CRUMB RUBBER
Authors: Grinys Audrius , Sivilevičius Henrikas , Pupeikis Darius , Ivanauskas Ernestas
Published: June 2013

Every year, colossal amounts of used and non-biodegradable rubber tyres are accumulated in the world. Experience shows that the most efficient way to increase the concrete fracture energy G F (N/m) is to use metal or polypropylene fibres. The optimal content of fibre increases concrete resistance to stress (especially tensile stress under bending force). Concrete fracture is not brittle; concrete continues deforming after maximum stresses and is able to resist certain stresses, there is no abrupt decrease in loading. The research has proved that crumb rubber can be used in concretes as an alternative to metal and polypropylene fibres. The investigation has found that rubber waste additives, through their specific properties can partly take up tensile stresses in concrete and make the concrete fracture more plastic; besides, such concrete requires a significantly higher fracture energy and concrete samples can withstand much higher residual strength at 500 µm crack mouth opening displacement (CMOD) and deflection.
Le projet Emilia : inclusion sociale par la formation des personnes vivant avec un trouble psychique
Authors: Jouet Emmanuelle
Published: June 2013

De 2005 à 2010, les participants au projet Emilia ont développé un programme de formation tout au long de la vie et d’accompagnement vers l’emploi dans le milieu ordinaire pour un groupe de personnes vivant avec un trouble psychiatrique. L’étude a analysé les effets sur la qualité de vie des usagers et sur leur utilisation des services sanitaires et sociaux de cette intervention basée sur les notions d’ empowerment et de rétablissement. Les résultats suggèrent que les programmes d’insertion professionnelle et sociale des usagers de la psychiatrie devraient prendre en compte leurs compétences et leurs capacités d’autonomisation et de rétablissement. Un programme de formation tout au long de la vie adapté à leurs besoins d’usagers-experts et développant la notion de rétablissement facilite l’accès à l’emploi ordinaire et modifie les conditions de collaboration entre les différentes institutions impliquées.
A new aphid genus and species (Hemiptera: Aphididae: Macrosiphini) living on ferns in Costa Rica and Mexico
Authors: Nieto Nafría Juan M. , Pérez Hidalgo Nicolás , Martínez-Torres David , Villalobos Muller William
Published: June 2013

Aphid species colonising ferns belong to the subfamily Aphidinae (Hemiptera: Aphididae) and the majority of these to the tribe Macrosiphini. A new genus in this tribe and its type species:Gibbomyzus pteridophytorumnew genus,new species, are established. Apterous and alate viviparous females are described from specimens collected onBlechnum buchtieniiRosenstock (Blechnaceae) in Costa Rica and onPteridium aquilinum(Linnaeus) Kuhn (Dennstaedtiaceae) and an unidentified fern in Mexico. The taxonomic validity of the two new taxa is discussed based on morphological and molecular data. Morphologically, the new genus is compared with genera with swollen siphunculi recorded in the New World, and also with genera living on ferns anywhere in the world. The identification key by Blackman and Eastop to aphids living on ferns is modified. Molecular analyses were carried out on the sequences of a fragment of the mitochondrial gene encoding for cytochromecoxidase subunit 1 and of a fragment of the nuclear gene encoding elongation factor-1 alpha. In both analyses,G. pteridophytorumnewspeciessequences showed considerable divergence (∼4% or more) from those of 23 other species from diverse genera of Macrosiphini, supporting the conclusions of the morphological study and justifying the establishment of the new genus.
Assessing the physical vulnerability of check dams through an empirical damage index
Authors: Dell'Agnese Andrea , Mazzorana Bruno , Comiti Francesco , Von Maravic Patricia , D’agostino Vincenzo
Published: June 2013

A comprehensive analysis of flood risk in mountain streams has to include an assessment of the vulnerability of the protection systems, in addition to an assessment of the vulnerability of the constructed environment on alluvial fans and floodplains. Structures forming the protection systems are of a dual nature, i.e. they are designed to mitigate natural process-related hazards and, on the other hand, are prone to be damaged during their lifecycle by the same processes they should mitigate. Therefore, their effectiveness declines over time. Hence, the knowledge of how effectively control structures perform is essential for risk management. A procedure was developed to assess the physical vulnerability of check dams based on empirical evidence collected in South Tyrol, Northern Italy. A damage index defined on pre- and postevent comparisons of check dam conditions was evaluated for 362 structures in 18 mountain streams along with the relevant processes and the structural characteristics affecting it. Although the available dataset did not allow conclusive functional relationships between damage index and impact variables to be established, it was possible to assess the average expected residual functionality of check dams according to structure characteristics, and event type and intensity. These results may help plan appropriate check dam maintenance.
Design of farm winery façades for the optimisation of indoor natural lighting: a case study
Authors: Torreggiani Daniele , Corzani Valentina , Benni Stefano , Tassinari Patrizia
Published: June 2013

This paper deals with the theme of daylighting performances of rural buildings, within a broader research context aimed at establishing design criteria for farm wineries. The objective is to benchmark the performances of different window systems in order to define design guidelines directed towards the optimisation of natural lighting to improve visual comfort and reduce energy consumption. A winegrowing and producing farm with standard features in the Emilia- Romagna region, Northern Italy, is considered as a case study. Particular attention was given to the part of the building designated for tasting activities. The study considered several opening solutions in the building envelope, and showed the effectiveness of those involving south façade glazing with appropriate screening systems. Further analyses will aim to investigate the performance of windows distributed on several fronts, including heat balance assessment.
Statistical assessment of vegetation dynamics within protected areas using remote sensing data
Authors: Menconi Maria Elena , Grohmann David
Published: June 2013

This study aimed to test the effectiveness of protected areas to preserve vegetation. The first step was to identify vegetation suitable areas, designed as areas with optimal morphological terrain features for a good photosynthetic activity. These areas were defined according to the following landscape factors: slope, altitude, aspect and land use. Enhanced vegetation index (EVI) was chosen as vegetation dynamics indicator. This method is based on a statistical approach using remote sensing data in a geographic information system (GIS) environment. The correlation between EVI and landscape factor was evaluated using the frequency ratio method. Classes of landscape factors that show good correlation with a high EVI were combined to obtain vegetation suitable areas. Once identified, these areas and their vegetation dynamics were analysed by comparing the results obtained whenever these areas are included or not included in protected areas. A second EVI dataset was used to verify the accuracy in identifying vegetation suitable areas and the influence of each landscape factor considered in their identification. This validation process showed that vegetation suitable areas are significant in identifying areas with good photosynthetic activity. The effects analysis showed a positive influence of all landscape factors in determining suitability. This methodology, applied to central regions of Italy, shows that the vegetation suitable areas located inside protected areas are greener than those outside protected areas. This suggests that the protective measures established by the institution of the parks have proved to be effective, at least as far as the status of vegetation development is concerned.
Modelling sensorial and nutritional changes to better define quality and shelf life of fresh-cut melons
Authors: Amodio Maria Luisa , Derossi Antonio , Colelli Giancarlo
Published: June 2013

The shelf life of fresh-cut produce is mostly determined by evaluating the external appearance since this is the major factor affecting consumer choice at the moment of purchase. The aim of this study was to investigate the degradation kinetics of the major quality attributes in order to better define the shelf life of fresh-cut melons. Melon pieces were stored for eight days in air at 5°C. Sensorial and physical attributes including colour, external appearance, aroma, translucency, firmness, and chemical constituents, such as soluble solids, fructose, vitamin C, and phenolic content, along with antioxidant activity were monitored. Attributes showing significant changes over time were used to test conventional kinetic models of zero and first order, and Weibullian models. The Weibullian model was the most accurate to describe changes in appearance score, translucency, aroma, firmness and vitamin C (with a regression coefficient always higher than 0.956), while the other parameters could not be predicted with such accuracy by any of the tested models. Vitamin C showed the lowest kinetic rate among the model parameters, even though at the limit of marketability (appearance score 3), estimated at five days, a loss of 37% of its initial content was observed compared to the fresh-cut product, indicating a much lower nutritional value. After five days, the aroma score was already 2.2, suggesting that this quality attribute, together with the vitamin C content, should be taken into account when assessing shelf life of fresh-cut melons. In addition, logistical models were used to fit the percentage of rejected samples on the basis of non-marketability and non-edibility (appearance score <3 and <2, respectively). For both parameters, correlations higher than 0.999 were found at P<0.0001; for each mean score this model helps to understand the distribution of the samples among marketable, nonmarketable, and non-edible products.
Service delivery in Belhar? Leadership challenges between the real and the ideal
Authors: Nell Ian A.
Published: June 2013

In the discipline of practical theology, one finds a long history of linking the name of the field to diaconiology, in which you find the Greek word diaconia, directly translated as ‘service’. For good and scientific reasons, the field changed its name to practical theology in some Faculties of Theology but that does not take away the fact that this field of research is still very much engaged in the broad area of ‘service of all kinds’. The purpose of this article was to do a descriptive investigation into the problems and challenges of service delivery in the suburb of Belhar (Cape Town), specifically looking at the role of leadership during a (new) time of struggle. As part of the normative task, the researcher took a closer look at the Belhar Confession as a prophetic stance in this regard. In an ironic twist, we see in these events the struggle between the real and the ideal that is typical of many places in the country facing problems with service delivery.
Die internet as dinamiese taalomgewing: taalveranderingsverskynsels in Internetafrikaans
Authors: Verhoef M.
Published: June 2013

The internet as dynamic language environment: manifestations of language change in Internet Afrikaans It is generally accepted that the growing interest in the Internet has opened up new horizons for language research. Chenault (1997:1) asserts that the Internet is not about technology or information, but about communication. The aim with this article is to explore the Internet as a dynamic language environment in which emerging patterns of language change in modernday Afrikaans could be traced. Firstly, attention is paid to ways in which the internet speech community could be defined as a coherent speech community. A second aim with this article is to scrutinise the dichotomy between spoken and written language. This is done in order to indicate that linguistic innovations, which usually emerge from social interaction, find their way into written language in digital communication. The third aim is to take a close look at various forms or patterns of language change in Afrikaans as they are presently used in Afrikaans chat rooms on the Internet. The article concludes that Internet Afrikaans could be regarded as an aspect of virtual reality for Afrikaans because systematic patterns of language change which started long ago in Afrikaans are confirmed by the Internet language environment.
Die literariteit van die sogenaamde ‘verhalende element’ in tradisionele heroïese Sothopoësie – ’n intertekstuele ondersoek
Authors: Pretorius W. J.
Published: June 2013

The literariness of the so-called “narrative element” in traditional heroic Sotho poetry – an intertextual analysis This article focuses on the “literariness” of the so-called narrative lines that feature prominently in traditional Sotho heroic poetry, better known as dithoko. By means of some intertextual references it has been illustrated that these lines do not merely convey historical detail by means of “ordinary informative” language. The recalling of historical events, is rather characterised by a reconstruction of activities in a poetic context, based on certain referential codes dominated by a specific cultural tradition. The poetic nature of these lines is not only created by the use of wellknown poetic devices such as imagery and rhythm, but also by the selective use of allusion which defamiliarizes communicative language usage. By alluding to historical actions, the traditional poet attempts to create a specific aesthetic convention rather than a mere factual one. Real events in these narrative lines are often camouflaged by defamiliarized language and the presentation of fictional creations. The analysis of a few examples from dithoko that are related to certain historical events clearly indicates that these narrative lines should be evaluated against the background of specific literary conventions and literary codes.
Numerical Method of Fabric Dynamics Using Front Tracking and Spring Model
Authors: Li Yan , Chern I-Liang , Kim Joung-Dong , Li Xiaolin
Published: June 2013

We use front tracking data structures and functions to model the dynamic evolution of fabric surface. We represent the fabric surface by a triangulated mesh with preset equilibrium side length. The stretching and wrinkling of the surface are modeled by the mass-spring system. The external driving force is added to the fabric motion through the “Impulse method” which computes the velocity of the point mass by superposition of momentum. The mass-spring system is a nonlinear ODE system. Added by the numerical and computational analysis, we show that the spring system has an upper bound of the eigen frequency. We analyzed the system by considering two spring models and we proved in one case that all eigenvalues are imaginary and there exists an upper bound for the eigen-frequency This upper bound plays an important role in determining the numerical stability and accuracy of the ODE system. Based on this analysis, we analyzed the numerical accuracy and stability of the nonlinear spring mass system for fabric surface and its tangential and normal motion. We used the fourth order Runge-Kutta method to solve the ODE system and showed that the time step is linearly dependent on the mesh size for the system.
Kinetic Energy Preserving and Entropy Stable Finite Volume Schemes for Compressible Euler and Navier-Stokes Equations
Authors: Chandrashekar Praveen
Published: June 2013

Centered numerical fluxes can be constructed for compressible Euler equations which preserve kinetic energy in the semi-discrete finite volume scheme. The essential feature is that the momentum flux should be of the formwhereandareanyconsistent approximations to the pressure and the mass flux. This scheme thus leaves most terms in the numerical flux unspecified and various authors have used simple averaging. Here we enforce approximate or exact entropy consistency which leads to a unique choice of all the terms in the numerical fluxes. As a consequence novel entropy conservative flux that also preserves kinetic energy for the semi-discrete finite volume scheme has been proposed. These fluxes are centered and some dissipation has to be added if shocks are present or if the mesh is coarse. We construct scalar artificial dissipation terms which are kinetic energy stable and satisfy approximate/exact entropy condition. Secondly, we use entropy-variable based matrix dissipation flux which leads to kinetic energy and entropy stable schemes. These schemes are shown to be free of entropy violating solutions unlike the original Roe scheme. For hypersonic flows a blended scheme is proposed which gives carbuncle free solutions for blunt body flows. Numerical results for Euler and Navier-Stokes equations are presented to demonstrate the performance of the different schemes.
Weighted Interior Penalty Method with Semi-Implicit Integration Factor Method for Non-Equilibrium Radiation Diffusion Equation
Authors: Zhang Rongpei , Yu Xijun , Zhu Jiang , D. Loula Abimael F. , Cui Xia
Published: June 2013

Weighted interior penalty discontinuous Galerkin method is developed to solve the two-dimensional non-equilibrium radiation diffusion equation on unstructured mesh. There are three weights including the arithmetic, the harmonic, and the geometric weight in the weighted discontinuous Galerkin scheme. For the time discretization, we treat the nonlinear diffusion coefficients explicitly, and apply the semi-implicit integration factor method to the nonlinear ordinary differential equations arising from discontinuous Galerkin spatial discretization. The semi-implicit integration factor method can not only avoid severe timestep limits, but also takes advantage of the local property of DG methods by which small sized nonlinear algebraic systems are solved element by element with the exact Newton iteration method. Numerical results are presented to demonstrate the validity of discontinuous Galerkin method for high nonlinear and tightly coupled radiation diffusion equation.
Analyzing experimental data and model parameters: implications for predictions of SOA using chemical transport models
Authors: Barsanti K. C. , Carlton A. G. , Chung S. H.
Published: June 2013

Abstract. Despite the critical importance for air quality and climate predictions, accurate representation of secondary organic aerosol (SOA) formation remains elusive. An essential addition to the ongoing discussion of improving model predictions is an acknowledgement of the linkages between experimental conditions, parameter optimization and model output, as well as the linkage between empirically-derived partitioning parameters and the physicochemical properties of SOA they represent in models. In this work, advantages of the volatility basis set (VBS) modeling approach are exploited to develop parameters for use in the computationally-efficient and widely-used two product (2p) SOA modeling framework, standard in chemical transport models such as CMAQ (Community Multiscale Air Quality) and GEOS-Chem (Goddard Earth Observing System–Chemistry). Calculated SOA yields and mass loadings obtained using the newly-developed 2p-VBS parameters and existing 2p and VBS parameters are compared with observed yields and mass loadings from a comprehensive list of published smog chamber studies to determine a "best available" set of SOA modeling parameters. SOA and PM2.5 levels are simulated using CMAQv.4.7.1; results are compared for a base case (with default 2p CMAQ parameters) and two "best available" parameter cases chosen to illustrate the high- and low-NOx limits of biogenic SOA formation from monoterpenes. Comparisons of published smog chamber data with SOA yield predictions illustrate that: (1) SOA yields for naphthalene and cyclic and > C5 alkanes are not well represented using either newly developed (2p-VBS) or existing (2p and VBS) parameters for low-yield aromatics and lumped alkanes, respectively; and (2) for 4 of 7 volatile organic compound + oxidant systems, the 2p-VBS parameters better represent existing data. Using the "best available" parameters (combination of published 2p and newly derived 2p-VBS), predicted SOA mass and PM2.5 concentrations increase by up to 10–15% and 7%, respectively, for the high-NOx case and up to 215% (~ 3 μg m−3) and 55%, respectively, for the low-NOx case. The ability to robustly assign "best available" parameters, however, is limited due to insufficient data for photo-oxidation of diverse monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes under a variety of atmospherically relevant NOx conditions. These results are discussed in terms of implications for current chemical transport model simulations and recommendations are provided for future measurement and modeling efforts.
Year-round retrievals of trace gases in the Arctic using the Extended-range Atmospheric Emitted Radiance Interferometer
Authors: Mariani Z. , Strong K. , Palm M. , Lindenmaier R. , Adams C. , Zhao X. , Savastiouk V. , McElroy C. T. , Goutail F. , Drummond J. R.
Published: June 2013

Abstract. The Extended-range Atmospheric Emitted Radiance Interferometer (E-AERI) was installed at the Polar Environment Atmospheric Research Laboratory (PEARL) at Eureka, Nunavut, Canada in October 2008. Spectra from the E-AERI provide information about the radiative balance and budgets of trace gases in the Canadian high Arctic. Measurements are taken every 7 min year-round, including polar night when the solar-viewing spectrometers at PEARL are not operated. This allows E-AERI measurements to fill the gap in the PEARL dataset during the four months of polar night. Measurements were taken year-round in 2008–2009 at the PEARL Ridge Lab, which is 610 m a.s.l. (above sea-level), and from 2011 onwards at the Zero-Altitude PEARL Auxiliary Lab (0PAL), which is at sea level 15 km from the Ridge Lab. Total columns of O3, CO, CH4, and N2O have been retrieved using a modified version of the SFIT2 retrieval algorithm adapted for emission spectra. This provides the first ground-based nighttime measurements of these species at Eureka. Changes in the total columns driven by photochemistry and dynamics are observed. Analyses of E-AERI retrievals indicate accurate spectral fits (root-mean-square residuals consistent with noise) and a 10–15% uncertainty in the total column, depending on the trace gas. O3 comparisons between the E-AERI and a Bruker IFS 125HR Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrometer, three Brewer spectrophotometers, two UV-visible ground-based spectrometers, and a System D'Analyse par Observations Zenithales (SAOZ) at PEARL are made from 2008–2009 and for 2011. 125HR CO, CH4, and N2O columns are also compared with the E-AERI measurements. Mean relative differences between the E-AERI and the other spectrometers are 1–10% (14% is for the un-smoothed profiles), which are less than the E-AERI's total column uncertainties. The E-AERI O3 and CO measurements are well correlated with the other spectrometers (r > 0.92 with the 125HR). The 24 h diurnal cycle and 365-day seasonal cycle of CO are observed and their amplitudes are quantified by the E-AERI (6–12 and 46%, respectively). The seasonal variability of H2O has an impact on the retrievals, leading to larger uncertainties in the summer months. Despite increased water vapour at the lower-altitude site 0PAL, measurements at 0PAL are consistent with measurements at PEARL.
Iodine-129 concentration in seawater near Fukushima before and after the accident at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant
Authors: Suzuki T. , Otosaka S. , Kuwabara J. , Kawamura H. , Kobayashi T.
Published: June 2013

Abstract. Anthropogenic radionuclides were released into the environment in large quantities by the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant (1FNPP) accident. To evaluate accident-derived 129I, the 129I concentrations in seawater before and after the accident were compared. Before the accident (2008–2009), the 129I concentrations in the western margin of the North Pacific between 32° N and 44° N showed a latitudinal gradient that was expressed as a linear function of latitude. The highest and average 129I concentrations after the accident were 73 times and approximately 8 times, respectively, higher than those before the accident in this study area. Considering the distribution of 129I in surface seawater, the accident-derived 129I in the southern and northern stations of the 1FNPP was predominantly supplied by seawater advection and atmospheric deposition (including microbial volatilization), respectively. As of October 2011, depth profiles of 129I revealed that 129I originating from the 1FNPP existed mainly in the upper 100 m depth. From the depth profiles, the cumulative inventories of accident-derived 129I were estimated to be (1.6–9.6) × 1012 atoms m−2 in this study area. On the basis of the 129I data in the seawater near Fukushima, the effective dose of 129I from seafood ingestion was much smaller than the annual dose limit.
Serum Vitamin D Deficiency and its Association with Systemic Disease in Exfoliation Syndrome
Authors: Kocabeyoglu Sibel , Mocan Mehmet Cem , Irkec Murat , Pinar Asli , Bozkurt Banu , Orhan Mehmet
Published: June 2013

Purpose

To determine the association of serum vitamin D levels with exfoliation syndrome (XFS) and evaluate its impact on co-associated systemic diseases.

Methods

Forty patients with XFS and 40 control subjects without XFS were recruited for this study. Serum concentrations of 25-hydroxy vitamin D [25(OH) D] were measured by high-performance liquid chromatography. Vitamin D deficiency was defined as a serum 25(OH) D concentration of <20 ng/mL. A detailed medical history including hypertension, diabetes mellitus, ischemic heart disease, cerebrovascular stroke, autoimmune disease, and neurologic disorders such as Parkinson disease and Alzheimer disease was recorded. Student t test and chi-square test was used for statistical evaluations.

Results

The mean age of patients with XFS and control subjects was 69.6 ± 8.1 years (range 58–90 years) and 67.1 ± 6.3 years (range 60–86 years), respectively (p>0.05). Mean 25(OH) D levels did not differ between XFS (19.8 ± 8.3 ng/mL) and control (19.9 ± 10.3 ng/mL) groups (p = 0.978). Patients with XFS had higher prevalence of cerebrovascular (p = 0.026) and cardiovascular disease (p = 0.001). There was no association between the systemic disease status and serum vitamin D levels of patients with XFS.

Conclusions

Although vitamin D levels were similar between XFS and control subjects, the levels were found to be decreased in both groups. Patients with XFS had a significantly higher prevalence of cerebrovascular and cardiovascular disease as compared to controls independent of their serum 25(OH) D levels. Low vitamin D level does not appear to be linked to XFS in the studied population.
Retinopathy of Prematurity: A Nationwide Survey to Evaluate Current Practices and Preferences of Ophthalmologists
Authors: Sekeroglu Mehmet Ali , Hekimoglu Emre , Sekeroglu Hande Taylan , Arslan Umut
Published: June 2013

Purpose

To emphasize the demographic and occupational characteristics of ophthalmologists primarily involved in retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) care and to ascertain their practices and preferences.

Methods

A questionnaire was sent to all Turkish ophthalmologists known to be primarily involved in ROP. They were asked about personal and occupational characteristics, practices and preferences related to ROP care, and for their proposals related to ROP training.

Results

Seventy questionnaires were sent, of which 63 (90%) were returned. A total of 44 respondents reported performing laser and 13 vitreoretinal surgery. Preferred treatment was transpupillary laser photocoagulation (54.5%), mostly performed in the operating theater (84.1%) under general anesthesia (72.7%). Only 19 (30.2%) reported intravitreal injection of vascular endothelial growth factor inhibitors (anti-VEGF). Ophthalmologists from university hospitals, trained in retina during fellowship, and performing treatment for ROP more commonly performed anti-VEGF injection. Most of them studied ROP after residency and 76.2% think that ROP training during residency is inadequate for clinical practice.

Conclusions

This survey reveals considerable variation among Turkish ROP specialists regarding ROP care. The survey data are critical in order to develop quality improvement and help in planning more effective future programs for ROP care in terms of training.
Combined Use of a Femtosecond Laser and a Microkeratome in Obtaining Thin Grafts for Descemet Stripping Automated Endothelial Keratoplasty: An Eye Bank Study
Authors: Murta Joaquim N. , Rosa Andreia M. , Quadrado Maria Joao C. , Russo Ana D. , Brito Sergio S. , Silva Maria Fátima L.
Published: June 2013

Purpose

To evaluate the use of a femtosecond laser combined with a microkeratome in the preparation of posterior corneal disks for Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK).

Methods

This experimental study involved ultrathin DSAEK tissue preparation of 22 donor corneas unsuitable for transplantation. The first cut was performed with an Intralase® FS60 laser and the second cut with a Moria CBm 300-μm microkeratome. The thickness of the first cut was modified for each cornea to obtain a final graft thickness of less than 110 μm. Precut and postcut central pachymetry were performed with an ultrasonic pachymeter. Central endothelial cell density (ECD) was calculated before and 24 hours after tissue preparation.

Results

Final graft thickness was 105.0 ± 26.1 (SD) μm (range 65–117). The mean microkeratome head cut thickness was 324.5 ± 10.9 μm (range 310–345). Precut and postcut ECDs averaged 2250 ± 222 and 2093 ± 286 cells/mm2, respectively, representing 6.9% of cell loss. No corneas were perforated.

Conclusions

Femtosecond FS60 lasers and Moria CBm 300-μm microkeratomes can be used sequentially to prepare consistently thin DSAEK grafts with no irregular cuts or cornea perforations.
Estratégias de ajustes posturais em indivíduos idosos diante do distúrbio de pegar uma bola
Authors: Santos Eloá Cristhina Carvalho , Claudino Renato , Santos Marcio José
Published: June 2013

Introdução: Alterações relacionadas com o envelhecimento podem levar a importantes limitações na estabilidade postural em idosos, como déficits nas estratégias de ajuste postural antecipatório e compensatório. Entretanto, o conhecimento dessas estratégias nessa população durante perturbações posturais usadas comumente na prática clínica é escasso. Objetivo: Investigar os ajustes posturais em idosos durante perturbações externas da postura comparando-os a indivíduos jovens adultos. Métodos: Avaliou-se a estabilidade postural de 20 indivíduos (dez idosos e dez jovens) por meio da atividade eletromiográfica dos músculos posturais e do deslocamento do centro de pressão corporal, após os participantes receberem uma perturbação externa gerada pelo impacto de uma bola. Resultados: Os idosos mostraram maior atividade eletromiográfica e mais deslocamento do centro de pressão corporal. Conclusão: Apesar de os idosos apresentarem uma maior ativação muscular antecipatória do que os jovens, eles demonstraram mais instabilidade postural, o que pode estar relacionado à ineficiência em gerar sinergismos musculares apropriados.