bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Validation of various adaptive threshold methods of segmentation applied to follicular lymphoma digital images stained with 3,3’-Diaminobenzidine&Haematoxylin
Authors: Korzynska Anna , Roszkowiak Lukasz , Lopez Carlos , Bosch Ramon , Witkowski Lukasz , Lejeune Marylene
Published: March 2013

The comparative study of the results of various segmentation methods for the digital images of the follicular lymphoma cancer tissue section is described in this paper. The sensitivity and specificity and some other parameters of the following adaptive threshold methods of segmentation: the Niblack method, the Sauvola method, the White method, the Bernsen method, the Yasuda method and the Palumbo method, are calculated. Methods are applied to three types of images constructed by extraction of the brown colour information from the artificial images synthesized based on counterpart experimentally captured images. This paper presents usefulness of the microscopic image synthesis method in evaluation as well as comparison of the image processing results. The results of thoughtful analysis of broad range of adaptive threshold methods applied to: (1) the blue channel of RGB, (2) the brown colour extracted by deconvolution and (3) the ’brown component’ extracted from RGB allows to select some pairs: method and type of image for which this method is most efficient considering various criteria e.g. accuracy and precision in area detection or accuracy in number of objects detection and so on. The comparison shows that the White, the Bernsen and the Sauvola methods results are better than the results of the rest of the methods for all types of monochromatic images. All three methods segments the immunopositive nuclei with the mean accuracy of 0.9952, 0.9942 and 0.9944 respectively, when treated totally. However the best results are achieved for monochromatic image in which intensity shows brown colour map constructed by colour deconvolution algorithm. The specificity in the cases of the Bernsen and the White methods is 1 and sensitivities are: 0.74 for White and 0.91 for Bernsen methods while the Sauvola method achieves sensitivity value of 0.74 and the specificity value of 0.99. According to Bland-Altman plot the Sauvola method selected objects are segmented without undercutting the area for true positive objects but with extra false positive objects. The Sauvola and the Bernsen methods gives complementary results what will be exploited when the new method of virtual tissue slides segmentation be develop.

Virtual Slides

The virtual slides for this article can be found here: slide 1: http://diagnosticpathology.slidepath.com/dih/webViewer.php?snapshotId=13617947952577 and slide 2: http://diagnosticpathology.slidepath.com/dih/webViewer.php?snapshotId=13617948230017.
Comparative ethnoentomology of edible stinkbugs in southern Africa and sustainable management considerations
Authors: Dzerefos Catherine Maria , Witkowski Ed Tadeusz Fernando , Toms Rob
Published: March 2013

Insects, such as stinkbugs, are able to produce noxious defence chemicals to ward off predators, nevertheless, some ethnic groups have recipes to render them delicious. We provide an example of edible stinkbugs (Encosternum delegorguei) used by two locally separate ethnic groups in South Africa, the Vhavenda and Mapulana, with a third group, the Bolobedu using them for commercial purposes. Structured interview schedules and observations with 106 harvesters were conducted to determine differences in use, nomenclature and oral history, methods of collection and preparation as well as perceptions pertaining to availability. The stinkbugs’ foul defence chemical and flight response necessitates nocturnal harvesting when the insect is immobilised by cold. The defence chemical stains the skin and affects vision yet protective gear is not worn. Damage to host trees was recorded when harvesters poached from plantations or private land, whereas, in communal-lands, sustainable methods were preferred. The legitimisation of stinkbug harvesting and introduction of a collection funnel could reduce conflicts with managers of plantations and private land. Two methods to remove the defence chemical for increased palatability were used. Preparation methods differed in whether or not water was used and also whether the head was left intact or removed. Stinkbugs have numerous medicinal uses, in particular as a hangover cure. Awareness and optimal use of beneficial insects, such as stinkbugs, in rural areas could lead to a reconsideration of current environmental management strategies, where harvesters act as habitat stewards and clearing, grazing or burning indigenous vegetation is kept to a minimum.
Long term enzyme replacement therapy for Fabry disease: effectiveness on kidney, heart and brain
Authors: Rombach Saskia M , Smid Bouwien E , Bouwman Machtelt G , Linthorst Gabor E , Dijkgraaf Marcel G W , Hollak Carla E M
Published: March 2013

Background

Fabry disease is an X-linked lysosomal storage disorder caused by α-galactosidase A deficiency leading to renal, cardiac, cerebrovascular disease and premature death. Treatment with α-galactosidase A (enzyme replacement therapy, ERT) stabilises disease in some patients, but long term effectiveness is unclear.

Methods

Renal, cardiac, and cerebral outcomes were prospectively studied in males and females with Fabry disease treated with ERT. Additionally, the occurrence of major cardiac events, stroke, end-stage renal disease and death was compared to a natural history (NH) cohort meeting treatment criteria.

Results

Of 75 patients on ERT (median treatment duration 5.2 years, range 0.05-11.0), prospective follow-up was available for 57 adult patients (30 males) and 6 adolescents. Renal function declined in males (-3.4 ml/min/1.73 m2 per year, SE 0.2; p < 0.001) despite ERT, but followed the normal course in females (-0.8 ml/min/1.73 m2 per year, SE 0.3; p = 0.001). Cardiac mass increased during ERT in males (+ 1.2 gram/m2.7, SE 0.3; p < 0.001), but remained stable in females (-0.3 gram/m2.7 per year, SE 0.4; p = 0.52). ERT did not prevent the occurrence of cerebral white matter lesions. Comparison of ERT treated to untreated patients revealed that the odds to develop a first complication increased with age (OR 1.05 (95% CI: 1.0-1.1) per year, p = 0.012). For development of a first or second complication the odds declined with longer treatment duration (OR 0.81 (95% CI: 0.68-0.96) per year of ERT, p = 0.015;OR 0.52 (0.31-0.88), p = 0.014 respectively).

Conclusions

Long term ERT does not prevent disease progression, but the risk of developing a first or second complication declines with increasing treatment duration. ERT in advanced Fabry disease seems of doubtful benefit.
The effect of ethanol and acetaldehyde on brain ependymal and respiratory ciliary beat frequency
Authors: Smith Claire Mary , Radhakrishnan Priya , Sikand Kulvinder , O’Callaghan Chris
Published: March 2013

Background

Ethanol has been shown to stimulate the beat frequency of respiratory cilia at concentrations encountered during social drinking, while one of its metabolites, acetaldehyde, has been shown to cause a marked decrease in ciliary beat frequency. The aim of this study was to determine whether short-term exposure to ethanol stimulated ependymal cilia and whether exposure to acetaldehyde had a toxic effect on ependymal and respiratory cilia.

Methods

Using ex vivo rat ependymal brain slice and human nasal brush biopsy models, we investigated the effect of exposure of cilia to various concentrations of ethanol and acetaldehyde at either 37°C or 24°C. Ciliary beat frequency was measured using digital high-speed video analysis.

Results

Exposure of ependymal and respiratory cilia to control, 0.1%, 0.5% and 1% ethanol solutions resulted in a maximal increase of 15% in the ciliary beat frequency from baseline values, compared with the control of 6%. A one-way analysis of variance comparing the mean slopes for the three concentrations of ethanol and control showed no significant differences between the groups (P >0.05). Exposure of ependymal and respiratory cilia to 100 and 250 μM acetaldehyde solutions resulted in a maximal increase of 15% in the ciliary beat frequency from baseline, compared with the control of 12%. A one-way analysis of variance performed to compare the mean slopes in these groups showed no significant differences (P >0.05).

Conclusions

Short-term exposure of brain ependymal and respiratory cilia to the concentrations of ethanol likely to be encountered during episodes of heavy drinking and to acetaldehyde at concentrations well above those encountered by man did not have a significant effect on ciliary beat frequency.
In vitro gene silencing of independent phosphoglycerate mutase (iPGM) in the filarial parasite Brugia malayi
Authors: Singh Prashant Kumar , Kushwaha Susheela , Mohd Shahab , Pathak Manisha , Misra-Bhattacharya Shailja
Published: March 2013

Background

The phosphoglycerate mutase (PGM) enzyme catalyzes the interconversion of 2- and 3-phosphoglycerate in the glycolytic /gluconeogenic pathways that are present in the majority of cellular organisms. They can be classified as cofactor-dependent PGM (dPGM) or cofactor-independent PGM (iPGM). Vertebrates, yeasts, and many bacteria have only dPGM, while higher plants, nematodes, archaea, and many other bacteria have only iPGM. A small number of bacteria, including Escherichia coli and certain archaea and protozoa, contain both forms. The silencing of ipgm in Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) has demonstrated the importance of this enzyme in parasite viability and, therefore, its potential as an anthelmintic drug target. In this study, the role of the Brugia malayi (B. malayi) ipgm in parasite viability, microfilaria release, embryogenesis, and in vivo development of infective larvae post-gene silencing was explored by applying ribonucleic acid (RNA) interference studies.

Results

The in vitro ipgm gene silencing by small interfering RNA (siRNA) leads to severe phenotypic deformities in the intrauterine developmental stages of female worms with a drastic reduction (~90%) in the motility of adult parasites and a significantly reduced (80%) release of microfilariae (mf) by female worms in vitro. Almost half of the in vitro- treated infective L3 displayed sluggish movement. The in vivo survival and development of siRNA-treated infective larvae (L3) was investigated in the peritoneal cavity of jirds where a ~45% reduction in adult worm establishment was observed.

Conclusion

The findings clearly suggest that iPGM is essential for both larval and adult stages of B. malayi parasite and that it plays a pivotal role in female worm embryogenesis. The results thus validate the Bm-iPGM as a putative anti-filarial drug target.
Anvirzel™ in combination with cisplatin in breast, colon, lung, prostate, melanoma and pancreatic cancer cell lines
Authors: Apostolou Panagiotis , Toloudi Maria , Chatziioannou Marina , Ioannou Eleni , Knocke Dennis R , Nester Joe , Komiotis Dimitrios , Papasotiriou Ioannis
Published: March 2013

Background

Platinum derivatives are used widely for the treatment of many cancers. However, the toxicity that is observed makes imperative the need for new drugs, or new combinations. Anvirzel™ is an extract which has been demonstrated with experimental data that displays anticancer activity. The aim of the present study is to determine whether the combination of Cisplatin and Anvirzel™ has a synergistic effect against different types of cancer.

Materials and methods

To measure the efficacy of treatment with Cisplatin and Anvirzel™, methyl-tetrazolium dye (MTT) chemosensitivity assays were used incorporating established human cancer cell lines. Measurements were performed in triplicates, three times, using different incubation times and different concentrations of the two formulations in combination or on their own. t-test was used for statistical analysis.

Results

In the majority of the cell lines tested, lower concentrations of Anvirzel™ induced a synergistic effect when combined with low concentrations of Cisplatin after an incubation period of 48 to 72 h. The combination of Anvirzel™/Cisplatin showed anti-proliferative effects against a wide range of tumours.

Conclusion

The results showed that the combination of Anvirzel™ and Cisplatin is more effective than monotherapy, even when administered at low concentrations; thus, undesirable toxic effects can be avoided.
When is reacquisition necessary due to high extra-cardiac uptake in myocardial perfusion scintigraphy?
Authors: Johansen Allan , Lomsky Milan , Gerke Oke , Edenbrandt Lars , Johansson Lena , Hansen Gunhild , Jensen Birgitte , Reid Maria Sallerup , Johansson Lise-Lott , Olofsson Camilla , Minarik David , Nyström Karin , Wollmer Per , Trägårdh Elin
Published: March 2013

Background

Technetium-labeled agents, which are most often used for assessing myocardial perfusion in myocardial perfusion scintigraphy (MPS), are cleared by the liver and excreted by the biliary system. Spillover from extra-cardiac activity into the myocardium, especially the inferior wall, might conceal defects and lower the diagnostic accuracy of the study. The objective was to determine rules of thumb for when reacquisition is useful due to high extra-cardiac uptake, i.e., when interpretation of the studies was affected by poor image quality.

Methods

Patients admitted to MPS at any of the three study sites, who also underwent a reacquisition due to high extra-cardiac uptake were included. Image quality was assessed by ten technologists on a scale ranging from 1 to 5. Interpretations regarding the presence/absence of ischemia/infarction, including the certainty of the diagnosis, were made by three physicians.

Results

There was a statistically significant increase in image quality between the first and the repeated acquisition (1,256 cases of increased quality at the repeated study (66%), 134 cases of decreased quality at the repeated study (7%), 510 cases of unchanged quality (27%) P < 0.0001). The number of equivocal studies, interpreted by physicians, decreased when evaluating the repeated studies compared to the first studies for all physicians, both for the interpretations of ischemia and for infarction. Receiver operating characteristic analyses revealed that for both endpoints (ischemia, infarction) and all physicians, the optimal cutoff point for performing a reacquisition was between quality categories 2 and 3.

Conclusion

This study indicates that repeat acquisition is useful when (1) the intensity of the extra-cardiac uptake is equal to or higher than the cardiac uptake when there is no separation between the extra-cardiac uptake and the inferior cardiac wall and (2) when the intensity of the extra-cardiac uptake is higher than the cardiac uptake when there is a separation between the extra-cardiac uptake and the inferior wall of less than one cardiac wall.
Redistribution of H3K27me3 upon DNA hypomethylation results in de-repression of Polycomb target genes
Authors: Reddington James P , Perricone Sara M , Nestor Colm E , Reichmann Judith , Youngson Neil A , Suzuki Masako , Reinhardt Diana , Dunican Donncha S , Prendergast James G , Mjoseng Heidi , Ramsahoye Bernard H , Whitelaw Emma , Greally John M , Adams Ian R , Bickmore Wendy A , Meehan Richard R
Published: March 2013

Background

DNA methylation and the Polycomb repression system are epigenetic mechanisms that play important roles in maintaining transcriptional repression. Recent evidence suggests that DNA methylation can attenuate the binding of Polycomb protein components to chromatin and thus plays a role in determining their genomic targeting. However, whether this role of DNA methylation is important in the context of transcriptional regulation is unclear.

Results

By genome-wide mapping of the Polycomb Repressive Complex 2-signature histone mark, H3K27me3, in severely DNA hypomethylated mouse somatic cells, we show that hypomethylation leads to widespread H3K27me3 redistribution, in a manner that reflects the local DNA methylation status in wild-type cells. Unexpectedly, we observe striking loss of H3K27me3 and Polycomb Repressive Complex 2 from Polycomb target gene promoters in DNA hypomethylated cells, including Hox gene clusters. Importantly, we show that many of these genes become ectopically expressed in DNA hypomethylated cells, consistent with loss of Polycomb-mediated repression.

Conclusions

An intact DNA methylome is required for appropriate Polycomb-mediated gene repression by constraining Polycomb Repressive Complex 2 targeting. These observations identify a previously unappreciated role for DNA methylation in gene regulation and therefore influence our understanding of how this epigenetic mechanism contributes to normal development and disease.
KISS1R Induces Invasiveness of Estrogen Receptor-Negative Human Mammary Epithelial and Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Cvetković Donna , Dragan Magdalena , Leith Sean J. , Mir Zuhaib M. , Leong Hon S. , Pampillo Macarena , Lewis John D. , Babwah Andy V. , Bhattacharya Moshmi
Published: March 2013

Kisspeptins (KPs), peptide products of the KISS1 metastasis-suppressor gene, are endogenous ligands for a G protein-coupled receptor (KISS1R). KISS1 acts as a metastasis suppressor in numerous human cancers. However, recent studies have demonstrated that an increase in KISS1 and KISS1R expression in patient breast tumors correlates with higher tumor grade and metastatic potential. We have shown that KP-10 stimulates invasion of estrogen receptor α (ERα)-negative MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells via transactivation of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR). Here, we report that either KP-10 treatment of ERα-negative nonmalignant mammary epithelial MCF10A cells or expression of KISS1R in MCF10A cells induced a mesenchymal phenotype and stimulated invasiveness. Similarly, exogenous expression of KISS1R in ERα-negative SKBR3 breast cancer cells was sufficient to trigger invasion and induced extravasation in vivo. In contrast, KP-10 failed to transactivate EGFR or stimulate invasiveness in the ERα-positive MCF7 and T47D breast cancer cells. This suggested that ERα negatively regulates KISS1R-dependent breast cancer cell migration, invasion, and EGFR transactivation. In support of this, we found that these KP-10-induced effects were ablated upon exogenous expression of ERα in the MDA-MB-231 cells, by down-regulating KISS1R expression. Lastly, we have identified IQGAP1, an actin cytoskeletal binding protein as a novel binding partner of KISS1R, and have shown that KISS1R regulates EGFR transactivation in breast cancer cells in an IQGAP1-dependent manner. Overall, our data strongly suggest that the ERα status of mammary cells dictates whether KISS1R may be a novel clinical target for treating breast cancer metastasis.
Sensitive and Specific Time-Resolved Fluorescence Immunoassay of Rat C-Peptide for Measuring Hormone Secretory and Storage Capacity of β-Cells In Vivo and In Vitro
Authors: van Genderen Farah T. , Gorus Frans K. , Pipeleers Daniel G. , van Schravendijk Christiaan F. H.
Published: March 2013

The limitations of current rat C-peptide assays led us to develop a time-resolved fluorescence immunoassay for measurements in plasma, incubation media, and tissue/cell extracts. The assay uses 2 monoclonal antibodies, binding to different parts of the C-peptide molecule, and allowing, respectively, capture of the peptide and its detection by europium-labeled streptavidin. It is performed on 25-μL samples for a dynamic range from 66pM up to 3900pM C-peptide and displays over 95% recovery of added peptide in the range of 111pM to 2786pM. Its inter- and intra-assay coefficients of variations are, respectively, lower than 7.6% and 4.8%. Cross-reactivities by rat insulin and by human and porcine C-peptide are negligible, and cross-reactivity by mouse C-peptide is 6% ± 2%. The assay has been validated for in vivo and in vitro measurements of C-peptide release and cellular content. Release patterns were similar to those for insulin and occurred in equimolar concentrations for both peptides. The molar C-peptide contents in purified β-cells and isolated islets were similar to the corresponding insulin contents. This was also the case for pancreatic extracts containing protease inhibitors.
Elaborate Metallosupramolecular Architectures through Desymmetrization Self-assembly of Symmetric Building Blocks
Authors: Nakamura Takashi , Ube Hitoshi , Shionoya Mitsuhiko
Published: March 2013

Desymmetrization self-assembly of symmetric building blocks is a powerful method to construct elaborate metallosupramolecular architectures. Herein several examples are given to discuss how to build up self-assembled complexes with low symmetry, focusing on 1) stabilization of local structural motifs by template molecules and/or interligand interactions, 2) rigidity regulation of ligand scaffolds, and 3) control of intermediate complexation conditions. Unsymmetrically assembled supramolecular host complexes exhibit unique functions reflecting their structural frameworks.
2011–2012 Gary L. Lilien ISMS-MSI Practice Prize Competition—Special Section Introduction
Authors: Winer Russell S.
Published: March 2013

I introduce the work of the finalists in the 2011–2012 Gary L. Lilien ISMS-MSI Practice Prize Competition, representing once again the best combinations of rigor and relevance produced by marketing scientists. The winning paper is by a team who developed an innovative approach to measuring the impact of a social media campaign for an Indian premium ice cream retailer, Hokey Pokey. The other two finalists are from a team that developed a category management tool for a leading wine brand, Beringer, and a team that developed a system called PROSAD, which determines optimal bids to maximize an advertiser's profit per search engine advertising keyword.
The redox chemistry of neptunium inγ-irradiated aqueous nitric acid
Authors: Mincher Bruce J. , Precek Martin , Mezyk Stephen P. , Elias Gracy , Martin Leigh R. , Paulenova Alena
Published: March 2013

The redox chemistry of neptunium in irradiated 4 M nitric acid was investigated usingγ-ray irradiation and UV/Vis spectroscopic measurements. Irradiation caused changes in the abundances of Np(V) and Np(VI) regardless of the initial fractional components of these oxidation states. At low absorbed doses Np(V) was oxidized to Np(VI) in irradiated solution, due to its reaction with oxidizing, radiolytically-produced, free radicals. However, when sufficient radiolytically-produced nitrous acid accumulated, the reduction of Np(VI) to Np(V) occurred, even at this high nitric acid concentration. Neptunium(IV) was not produced. A kinetic model which incorporates the standard water radiolysis reactions, estimated radical yields for 4 M HNO3, and rate constants for neptunium reactions available from the literature was used to successfully reproduce the experimental results.
Ab Initio Study of Cooperative Effects in Complexes X:HBO:Z, with X, Z=LiH, HNC, HF, HCN, HCl, ClF, and HBO: Structures, Binding Energies, and Spin-Spin Coupling Constants across Intermolecular Bonds
Authors: Del Bene Janet Elaine , Alkorta Ibon , Sánchez-Sanz Goar , Elguero José
Published: March 2013

A systematic ab initio investigation has been carried out to determine the structures, binding energies, and spin-spin coupling constants of ternary complexes X:HBO:Z for X, Z= LiH, HNC, HF, HCN, HCl, ClF, and HBO. All complexes X:HBO:Z are linear with C∞ v symmetry, except for HCl:HBO:Z and ClF:HBO:Z which have Cs symmetry, thereby reflecting the structures of the corresponding X:HBO and HBO:Z complexes. Cooperative effects on energies are synergistic in all ternary complexes. The enhanced binding energies of complexes X:HBO:Z correlate with the binding energies of the X:HBO and HBO:Z complexes. Coupling constants 1J(B-H) and 2hJ(B-A) across B-H···sA hydrogen bonds correlate with the B-A distance, and exhibit synergistic effects due to the presence of Z. 1hJ(H-A) indicates that these bonds have little proton-shared character. Coupling constants across D-H···sO hydrogen bonds, H-Li···sO lithium bonds, and F-Cl···sO halogen bonds are also sensitive to the synergistic effects arising from the presence of X. D-H···sO hydrogen bonds in ternary complexes are traditional (normal) hydrogen bonds.
Surface Dilational Properties of Sodium 4-(1-methyl)-Alkyl Benzene Sulfonates: Effect of Alkyl Chain Length
Authors: Zhang Ji-Chao , Guo Lan-Lei , Zhang Lei , Dong Lin-Fang , Zhang Lu , Luo Lan , Zhao Sui
Published: March 2013

The dilational properties of absorbed film of three sodium 4-(1-methyl)-alkyl benzene sulfonates at the air-water interface have been investigated by drop shape analysis method. The influences of time, dilational frequency and surfactant bulk concentration on surface dilational modulus and phase angle have been expounded. The nature of interfacial film depends on the molecular structure of surfactants. For 2Φ-14 and 2Φ-16, the diffusion-exchange process controls the dilational properties and the film shows viscoelastic character. As an increase of the hydrophobic chain, the dilational modulus of 2Φ-18 is independent on applied frequency in the studied bulk concentration except for 1 × 105mol/L, which indicates the adsorbed layer behaves nearly purely elastic. Furthermore, the phase angle of 2Φ-14 and 2Φ-16 are remarkably higher than those of 2Φ-18, confirming that the presence of strong interactions between hydrophobic chains of 2Φ-18. Best agreements with the experimental data have been obtained from the curves of dilational modulusvs.surface pressure.
Oxygen and Hydrogen Isotopic Preference in Hydration Spheres of Chloride and Sulfate Ions
Authors: Oi Takao , Morimoto Hiroaki
Published: March 2013

Molecular orbital calculations were performed to estimate the 18O/16O and D/H isotopic reduced partition function ratios (RPFRs) of water molecules around chloride and sulfate ions. Cl-(H2O)
n
and SO4
2-(H2O)
n
clusters with n up to 120 were considered as models of aqueous solution containing those anions. The calculations indicated that the decreasing order of the 18O preference over 16O in the primary hydration sphere is: (bulk water) > SO4
2- > Cl-. That is, water molecules in the primary hydration spheres of those anions are expected to be depleted in the heavier isotope of oxygen relative to water molecules in bulk, and the degree of the depletion is larger for the chloride ion than for the sulfate ion. Similar tendency was also observed for the isotope preference of hydrogen. No such isotopic preference was observed either for oxygen or for hydrogen in the secondary and outer hydration spheres.
Interaction of Hydrogen with a Cobalt(0001) Surface
Authors: Huesges Zita , Christmann Klaus
Published: March 2013

The interaction of hydrogen and deuterium with the Co(0001) surface has been studied in UHV between 90 and 500 K by means of LEED, temperature-programmed thermal desorption (TPD) and work function change (ΔΦ) measurements. Hydrogen adsorbs spontaneously and dissociatively in two atomic binding states denoted as β
1 and β
2 with a high initial sticking probability. The adsorption energies E(β
1) and E(β
2) are 80 and 100 kJ/mol, respectively, if a first-order desorption kinetics is assumed (a second-order kinetic analysis yields unreasonably low values for both the desorption energies and frequency factors). At sufficiently low temperatures, the adsorbed H atoms form a faint (2 × 2) LEED superstructure, which is best developed after an exposure of ∼20 L. From the temperature dependence of the fractional-order beam intensity at different exposures we determine the critical temperature of the (2 × 2) phase as ∼ 243 ( ± 10) K. Similar to the H-on-Ni(111) system the existence range of the (2 × 2) phase in the temperature–coverage plane is asymmetric; i.e., below the critical coverage Θ
crit the respective long-range order has a higher range of stability than above Θ
crit. By analogy with H/Ni(111), we assume a similar honeycomb H structure also for the H-on-Co(0001) system and suggest the critical coverage Θ
crit to be 0.5, i.e., half a monolayer of H atoms. The H-induced work function change is surprisingly small; it decreases, forms a shallow minimum of −18 meV after ∼20 L exposure around the optimum coverage of the (2 × 2) phase and reaches a saturation value of −10 meV. Our data are discussed and compared with previous work on H/Co(0001) and other close-packed transition metal surfaces, especially with the H-on-Ni(111) system.
Isocrates on paradoxical discourse
Authors: Blank Thomas G. M.
Published: March 2013

It has long been stated that, in Isocrates' Helen, there seems to be an open contradiction between the author's harsh criticism of logoi paradoxoi and the simple fact that his own encomia of Helen and Busiris appear to be specimens of that very genre. Traditionally, this contradiction has been explained by Isocrates' need to distanciate his own work from that of his predecessors.

This paper undertakes a different approach. Isocrates' criticism of paradoxographic literature is based upon observations about what is and what is not allowed in moral epideictic discourse. Isocrates' specific instructions about proper and improper moral argumentation can function as hermeneutical tool to analyze Helen and Busiris. Only in Helen does he observe the rules of argumentation formulated in that very discourse. In Busiris, however, Isocrates adopts the typical modes of argumentation in paradoxographic literature as represented in the works of Gorgias or Polycrates. In consequence, his arguments in Busiris prove to be unconvincing when measured by his own standards formulated in the proemium of both Helen and Busiris. Consequently, the discourse ends in an apology of these arguments which is, once again, defective. In his corresponding discourses Helen and Busiris, Isocrates implictly demonstrates the moral and technical defects inherent in paradoxical discourse. He explicitly reflects these defects in the proemia and epilogues of both speeches. Helen and Busiris should, therefore, be understood as Isocrates' manifesto for moral discourse as opposed to paradoxographic showpieces.
Rhetoric and Poetic in Milton's Polemics of 1659–60
Authors: Egan James
Published: March 2013

Recurring features of Miltonic rhetoric during the 1640s include the structural patterns of the oration and the animadversion, widespread deployment of the classical high, low, and middle styles, and an epideictic mode of praise and blame. Equally noteworthy is the close relationship of rhetoric and poetic. These features can be used as a template to characterize Milton's work in 1659–60, his final period as a political controversialist. Five texts make up this period: Civil Power (1659), Likeliest Means (1659), two editions of The Readie Way (1660), and Brief Notes (1660). In 1659–60 the oration remains Milton's preferred form of public, inaugural address, yet traces of the Puritan sermon can also be found. As he had done in the 1640s, Milton later relied on the classical low style for argument, documentation, and narration. The poetic qualities of Miltonic polemic are as evident in 1659–60 as they had been in the 1640s. The well-developed mimetic identity of the second edition of The Readie Way represents a sophistication of the localized mimesis of the 1640s.
The effect of embryo presence on the expression of peroxisome proliferator activated receptor (PPAR) genes in the porcine reproductive system during periimplantation
Authors: Bogacka Iwona , Bogacki Marek , Wasielak Marta
Published: March 2013

This study was undertaken to determine the effect of the presence of embryos in the uterine horn on peroxisome proliferator activated receptors (PPARs; A, D, G) gene expression in the reproductive tissues of gilts subjected to a surgical procedure. The uterus consisted of one intact horn connected to the uterine corpus and the second horn detached from the uterine corpus but connected with the contiguous ovary. The gilts were hormonally stimulated and divided into two groups: the first group, inseminated (pregnant) and the second group (cyclic), with surgical procedure but not inseminated. The animals of both groups were slaughtered on day 14 of pregnancy or on day 14 of the oestrous cycle, respectively. PPARs mRNA abundance in the endometrium and the corpus luteum (CL) was analysed by quantitative real-time PCR. During pregnancy, PPARA and PPARD μmRNA abundance in the porcine endometrium was significantly higher in the horn containing embryos than in the contralateral horn, where embryos were absent. The endometrial PPARG1 mRNA abundance did not differ between the two horns during pregnancy and the oestrous cycle, but a higher level of the transcript was observed during pregnancy when compared to the oestrous cycle. In the CL, there were no significant differences in PPARA and PPARDμ mRNA abundance between horns in pregnant or cyclic sows. However, there was a significant increase of PPARA and PPARD transcript level in the CL from cyclic compared with pregnant sows. The results of our study suggest that PPARA and PPARD have regulatory functions in early pregnancy, and they indicate that increased levels of endometrial gene expression are correlated with the presence of embryos in the uterine horn. Higher levels of PPARA and PPARD expression in the porcine CL on day 14 of the oestrous cycle than on day 14 of pregnancy suggest that both forms are involved in the regulation of CL functions.
The effectiveness of natural and synthetic immunomodulators in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease in dogs
Authors: Rychlik Andrzej , Nieradka Renata , Kander Małgorzata , Nowicki Marcin , Wdowiak Michał , Kołodziejska-Sawerska Anna
Published: March 2013

The aim of the study was to evaluate the usefulness of immunomodulators in the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in dogs. Twenty-eight dogs diagnosed with IBD took part in the study. The animals received a food containing extruded immunomodulators: β-1,3/1,6-D-glucan, β-hydroxy-β-methyl-butyrate (HMB) and levamisole for 42 days. Whole blood samples were analysed before and after therapy assessing changes in phagocyte activity (respiratory burst activity, RBA and potential killing activity, PKA), evaluation of proliferation response of mitogen-stimulated lymphocytes and serum gamma globulin levels, lysozyme activity, ceruloplasmin levels and interleukin activity (IL-6 and IL-10). In this experiment, β-1,3/1,6-D-glucan delivered the highest level of treatment efficacy by producing the quickest therapeutic effect, lowering Canine Inflammatory Bowel Disease Activity Index (CIBDAI) values to below 3, improving histopathological parameters, decreasing IL-6 levels, increasing IL-10 concentrations, and producing remission periods longer than six months. HMB and levamisole were also effective in lowering CIBDAI scores, but the abatement of clinical symptoms was slower and less pronounced in comparison with β-1,3/1,6-D-glucan. The results indicate that β-1,3/1,6-D-glucan can be useful in the treatment of canine IBD.
Effect of sex ratios, spiking and extra artificial insemination on the breeding efficiency of broiler breeders
Authors: Végi Barbara , Váradi Éva , Szőke Zsuzsanna , Barna Judit
Published: March 2013

Since early fertility decline is a permanent problem of broiler breeders, the aim of this study was to test the effects of various sex ratios, spiking strategies and additional artificial inseminations (AI) on their breeding efficiency. Six breeder flocks were analysed during the whole reproduction cycle. In Flock A the sex ratio was maintained at 10% during the whole cycle (control), while in Flock B the number of males was increased to a final ratio of 16%. In Flocks C (technological control), D, E and F the ratio of males was gradually decreased from 10% to 6.5% until the end of the cycle. Moreover, at the age of 44 weeks in Flocks D and E 50 and 100% of cockerels were replaced by young ones, respectively, while in Flock F additional artificial inseminations were applied in the second half of the reproduction cycle. The increase of sperm transport was successful only in Groups B (increase in male numbers) and D (50% replacement of old cockerels with young ones); however, it was not sufficient for increasing the fertility rates in either group. Nor did additional artificial inseminations (Flock F) have an effect on fertility. As a conclusion, it can be established that increasing the sperm count in the hens’ oviducts in any way could not improve fertility in the last third of the production cycle. The results also suggest that the expensive and labour-intensive spiking technique used in broiler breeder management is useless. The prime factor responsible for the shortened persistence of fertility may be the reduced ability of the female oviduct to accept and store sperm.
Ultrastructural lesions and immunohistochemical analysis of Bcl-2 protein expression in the kidney of chickens with experimental ochratoxicosis
Authors: Solcan Carmen , Timofte Dorina , Floristean Viorel , Carter Stuart , Solcan Gheorghe
Published: March 2013

A study was conducted to evaluate the nephrotoxic effect of ochratoxin A (OTA) in broiler chickens. Forty Ross 308 broilers (6 days old) were divided into two groups: one group received daily, by gavage, ochratoxin A at a daily dose of 50 μg/kg body weight for up to 21 days, while the control group received only diluent (sunflower oil). After 21 days, the chickens were euthanised and the kidneys removed for analysis by histopathology and immunohistochemistry to detect an anti-apoptotic marker (Bcl-2), and by transmission electron microscopy. Macroscopically the kidneys were enlarged, showing degeneration and gout deposits. Histologically, glomerulonephrosis and tubulonephrosis were common lesions in all chicks. In two of the five chicks exposed to OTA for 21 days, focal tubular cell proliferation, multiple adenoma-like structures and Bcl-2-positive epithelial cells were identified in layers of the renal papilla and in convoluted tubules. Transmission electron microscopy of the proximal convoluted tubules identified abnormal forms of mitochondria. The nephrotoxic effect of ochratoxicosis in chickens is probably due to carcinogenic changes induced in the epithelial tissues.
Effect of lignin supplementation of a diet contaminated with Fusarium mycotoxins on blood and intestinal lymphocyte subpopulations in chickens
Authors: Revajová Viera , Levkut Mikuláš , Levkutová Mária , Bořutová Radka , Grešaková Ľubomíra , Košiková Božena , Leng Ľubomír
Published: March 2013

The objective of the study was to investigate the effects of lignin supplementation of a diet contaminated with the Fusarium mycotoxins deoxynivalenol (DON) and zearalenone (ZEA) on peripheral blood leukocytes and duodenal immunocompetent cells in broiler chickens. From day 1 after hatching, all chickens were fed an identical control diet for two weeks. Then chickens of Group 1 continued to be fed the control diet, whereas Group 2 was fed the same diet supplemented with lignin at 0.5% level. Simultaneously, Group 3 started to receive a diet contaminated with DON (2.95 mg kg−1) and ZEA (1.59 mg kg−1), while Group 4 received an identical contaminated diet supplemented with 0.5% lignin for further two weeks. Samples of blood and duodenal tissue were collected from 6 birds of each group at 4 weeks of age. Neither counts of white blood cells nor phagocytic function in the peripheral blood were significantly affected in the mycotoxin- and/or lignin-treated birds. As compared to the control, increased numbers of IgM-bearing cells were found in the peripheral blood in Group 3 fed the contaminated diet (P < 0.05) and in Group 4 given the contaminated diet supplemented with lignin (P < 0.01). While the contaminated diet led to reduced numbers of duodenal CD4+ cells, in Group 2 treated only with lignin the number of duodenal CD4+ cells was increased. Lignin enrichment of the contaminated diet did not eliminate the mycotoxin-induced reduction in the number of duodenal CD4+ cells. The results suggest that dietary supplementation of lignin as an indigestible compound to poultry feed may increase the density of some intestinal immunocompetent cells without exerting effects on that in the peripheral blood. However, when added to a diet contaminated with Fusarium mycotoxins, lignin did not prevent the mycotoxin-induced changes in the numbers of blood and intestinal immunocompetent cells.
The tumor cured, but what about the patient?
Authors: Könczöl Franciska , Farkas Nelli
Published: March 2013

Background: Polyneuropathy is defined as a simultaneous malfunction of several peripheral nerves, which could be a toxic side effect of cancer therapy; however, this is reported to occur rarely and difficult to confirm. Aims: The purpose of the study was to introduce, at the first time, the calorimetry in the diagnosis of neuropathy in an experimental animal model. The study was inspired by the forensic investigation of a 53-year-old cancer survivor female patient, in whom the development of polyneuropathy could be caused by cyclophosphamide therapy. Methods: Adult guinea pigs were injected intraperitoneally with the dose of cyclophosphamide, comparable to the human dosage. Animals were euthanized, then nerve and muscle samples were analyzed using a SETARAM Micro calorimeter. Denaturation temperatures were measured and the calorimetric enthalpies were calculated based on the areas under thermal absorption curves. Results: Thermal denaturations of the samples were decreased and the calorimetric enthalpies were increased depending on the doses of cyclophosphamide. The nerves were more sensitive to chemotherapy as compared to the muscles. Conclusion: It is concluded that toxic effects of cyclophosphamide on peripheral nerves and muscles can be measured and analysed by calorimetry, and that the effect was dose dependent. Orv. Hetil., 2013, 154, 510–515.
Materials for All-Solid-State Lithium Ion Batteries
Authors: Narayanan Sumaletha , Truong Lina , Thangadurai Venkataraman
Published: March 2013

Garnet-type electrolytes are currently receiving much attention for applications in Li-ion batteries, as they possess high ionic conductivity and chemical stability. Doping the garnet structure has proved to be a good way to improve the Li ion conductivity and stability. The present study includes effects of Y- doping in Li5La3Nb2O12 on Li ion conductivity and stability of “Li5+2xLa3Nb2-xYxO12” (0.05 ≤ x ≤ 0.75) under various environments, as well as chemical stability studies of Li5+xBaxLa3-xM2O12 (M = Nb, Ta) in water. “Li6.5La3Nb1.25Y0.75O12” showed a very high ionic conductivity of 2.7 х 10−4 Scm−1 at 25 °C, which is comparable to the highest value reported for garnet-type compounds, e.g., Li7La3Zr2O12. The selected members show very good stability against high temperatures, water, Li battery cathode Li2CoMn3O8 and carbon. The Li5+xBaxLa3-xNb2O12 garnets have shown to readily undergo an ion-exchange (proton) reaction under water treatment at room temperature; however, the Ta-based garnet appears to exhibit considerably higher stability under the same conditions.
Synthesis of Different Molybdenum Disulfide Nanostructures and their Applicability in Lithium Ion Batteries with Ionic Liquid Electrolytes
Authors: Albrecht Daniel , Wulfmeier Hendrik , Ivanov Svetlozar , Bund Andreas , Fritze Holger
Published: March 2013

Molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) nanostructures with three different morphologies are synthesized and tested with respect to their applicability in lithium ion batteries. Thereby, electrolytes based on ionic liquids are used. The electrochemical performance of nanostructures and thin films is compared to evaluate the influence of the morphology. Characterization methods include X-Ray diffraction (XRD), cyclic voltammetry (CV), galvanostatic cycling and thin film calorimetry. The thin film and the nanostructured samples show a reversible capacity of 525 mAh/g and a maximum capacity 225 mAh/g, respectively.
Anemia and functional capacity in elderly Brazilian hospitalized patients
Authors: Bosco Raquel de Macedo , Assis Elisa Priscila Souza , Pinheiro Renata Rosseti , Queiroz Luiza Cristina Viana de , Pereira Leani S. M. , Antunes Carlos Maurício Figueiredo
Published: March 2013

This study evaluated the association between anemia and physical functional capacity in a cross-sectional population-based sample of 709 hospitalized elderly patients aged 60 years and over admitted to the Madre Teresa Hospital, Belo Horizonte, State of Minas Gerais, Brazil. The Mann-Whitney or "t" test, and chi-square or Fisher exact test were used for quantitative and categorical variables, respectively, and hierarchical binary logistic regression was used to identify significant predictors. The presence of anemia was found in 30% of participants and was significantly associated with decreased functionality according to the two measures which were used - ADL (activities of daily living) and IADL (instrumental activities of daily living). Anemia was also independently associated with older age. The results of this study demonstrate a strong association between the presence of anemia and lower levels of functional capacity. Further investigations are needed to assess the impact of anemia treatment on the functionality and independence of older people.
Desigualdades sociais na distribuição espacial das hospitalizações por doenças respiratórias
Authors: Antunes Fernanda Pedro , Costa Maria da Conceição Nascimento , Paim Jairnilson Silva , Vieira-da-Silva Ligia Maria , Cruz Álvaro Augusto , Natividade Márcio , Barreto Mauricio L.
Published: March 2013

Para verificar as desigualdades sociais nas hospitalizações por doenças do aparelho respiratório em Salvador, Bahia, Brasil, 2001-2007, realizou-se estudo ecológico espacial, tendo como unidade de análise zonas de informação. Estas foram estratificadas considerando um indicador de condições de vida e analisadas por regressão de Poisson. A distribuição espacial das taxas de hospitalização por doenças do aparelho respiratório variou de 3,3 a 80,5/10 mil habitantes. Asma, pneumonia e doença pulmonar obstrutiva crônica (DPOC) apresentaram padrão espacial heterogêneo, no qual estratos de piores condições de vida apresentaram maior risco de ocorrência dessas internações. A taxa de hospitalização por doenças do aparelho respiratório foi 2,4 vezes maior no estrato de condições de vida muito baixas do que no primeiro estrato. Houve redução das desigualdades para pneumonia e aumento para asma e DPOC. A existência de forte gradiente social reforça a hipótese de que aspectos socioeconômicos são determinantes das hospitalizações por doenças do aparelho respiratório.
Estratégia Saúde da Família em comparação a outras fontes de atenção: indicadores de uso e qualidade dos serviços de saúde em Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brasil
Authors: Lima-Costa Maria Fernanda , Turci Maria Aparecida , Macinko James
Published: March 2013

Foram comparados indicadores de uso e qualidade dos serviços de saúde em uma amostra probabilística de adultos (N = 7.534) cobertos por plano privado, Estratégia Saúde da Família (ESF) e unidade básica de saúde (UBS) "tradicional" no Município de Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brasil. Após ajustamentos por fatores demográficos, condições de saúde e situação socioeconômica, os indicadores de uso (longitudinalidade, procura por atenção e consultas médicas) apresentaram melhor performance entre usuários regulares da ESF e afiliados a plano privado em comparação aos cobertos pela UBS. As hospitalizações, os exames de rastreamento e a vacinação contra a gripe variaram pouco entre esses grupos. Os indicadores de qualidade (dificuldades para obter consultas, existência de filas, queixa para obtenção de medicamentos e obtenção de consultas em 24 horas) foram melhores entre afiliados a plano privado. A recomendação para outra pessoa dos serviços de saúde utilizados foi mais frequente entre usuários regulares da ESF (61,9%) e afiliados a plano privado (55,6%), em comparação à UBS (45,4%).