bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Surveillance
Authors: Beauchamp Toby
Published: May 2014

This section includes eighty-six short original essays commissioned for the inaugural issue of TSQ: Transgender Studies Quarterly. Written by emerging academics, community-based writers, and senior scholars, each essay in this special issue, “Postposttranssexual: Key Concepts for a Twenty-First-Century Transgender Studies,” revolves around a particular keyword or concept. Some contributions focus on a concept central to transgender studies; others describe a term of art from another discipline or interdisciplinary area and show how it might relate to transgender studies. While far from providing a complete picture of the field, these keywords begin to elucidate a conceptual vocabulary for transgender studies. Some of the submissions offer a deep and resilient resistance to the entire project of mapping the field terminologically; some reveal yet-unrealized critical potentials for the field; some take existing terms from canonical thinkers and develop the significance for transgender studies; some offer overviews of well-known methodologies and demonstrate their applicability within transgender studies; some suggest how transgender issues play out in various fields; and some map the productive tensions between trans studies and other interdisciplines.
Tatume
Authors: Muñoz Vic
Published: May 2014

This section includes eighty-six short original essays commissioned for the inaugural issue of TSQ: Transgender Studies Quarterly. Written by emerging academics, community-based writers, and senior scholars, each essay in this special issue, “Postposttranssexual: Key Concepts for a Twenty-First-Century Transgender Studies,” revolves around a particular keyword or concept. Some contributions focus on a concept central to transgender studies; others describe a term of art from another discipline or interdisciplinary area and show how it might relate to transgender studies. While far from providing a complete picture of the field, these keywords begin to elucidate a conceptual vocabulary for transgender studies. Some of the submissions offer a deep and resilient resistance to the entire project of mapping the field terminologically; some reveal yet-unrealized critical potentials for the field; some take existing terms from canonical thinkers and develop the significance for transgender studies; some offer overviews of well-known methodologies and demonstrate their applicability within transgender studies; some suggest how transgender issues play out in various fields; and some map the productive tensions between trans studies and other interdisciplines.
Television
Authors: Miller Quinn
Published: May 2014

This section includes eighty-six short original essays commissioned for the inaugural issue of TSQ: Transgender Studies Quarterly. Written by emerging academics, community-based writers, and senior scholars, each essay in this special issue, “Postposttranssexual: Key Concepts for a Twenty-First-Century Transgender Studies,” revolves around a particular keyword or concept. Some contributions focus on a concept central to transgender studies; others describe a term of art from another discipline or interdisciplinary area and show how it might relate to transgender studies. While far from providing a complete picture of the field, these keywords begin to elucidate a conceptual vocabulary for transgender studies. Some of the submissions offer a deep and resilient resistance to the entire project of mapping the field terminologically; some reveal yet-unrealized critical potentials for the field; some take existing terms from canonical thinkers and develop the significance for transgender studies; some offer overviews of well-known methodologies and demonstrate their applicability within transgender studies; some suggest how transgender issues play out in various fields; and some map the productive tensions between trans studies and other interdisciplines.
Transgender
Authors: Williams Cristan
Published: May 2014

This section includes eighty-six short original essays commissioned for the inaugural issue of TSQ: Transgender Studies Quarterly. Written by emerging academics, community-based writers, and senior scholars, each essay in this special issue, “Postposttranssexual: Key Concepts for a Twenty-First-Century Transgender Studies,” revolves around a particular keyword or concept. Some contributions focus on a concept central to transgender studies; others describe a term of art from another discipline or interdisciplinary area and show how it might relate to transgender studies. While far from providing a complete picture of the field, these keywords begin to elucidate a conceptual vocabulary for transgender studies. Some of the submissions offer a deep and resilient resistance to the entire project of mapping the field terminologically; some reveal yet-unrealized critical potentials for the field; some take existing terms from canonical thinkers and develop the significance for transgender studies; some offer overviews of well-known methodologies and demonstrate their applicability within transgender studies; some suggest how transgender issues play out in various fields; and some map the productive tensions between trans studies and other interdisciplines.
Transmedia
Authors: Chen Jian , Olivares Lissette
Published: May 2014

This section includes eighty-six short original essays commissioned for the inaugural issue of TSQ: Transgender Studies Quarterly. Written by emerging academics, community-based writers, and senior scholars, each essay in this special issue, “Postposttranssexual: Key Concepts for a Twenty-First-Century Transgender Studies,” revolves around a particular keyword or concept. Some contributions focus on a concept central to transgender studies; others describe a term of art from another discipline or interdisciplinary area and show how it might relate to transgender studies. While far from providing a complete picture of the field, these keywords begin to elucidate a conceptual vocabulary for transgender studies. Some of the submissions offer a deep and resilient resistance to the entire project of mapping the field terminologically; some reveal yet-unrealized critical potentials for the field; some take existing terms from canonical thinkers and develop the significance for transgender studies; some offer overviews of well-known methodologies and demonstrate their applicability within transgender studies; some suggest how transgender issues play out in various fields; and some map the productive tensions between trans studies and other interdisciplines.
Umbrella
Authors: Singer T. Benjamin
Published: May 2014

This section includes eighty-six short original essays commissioned for the inaugural issue of TSQ: Transgender Studies Quarterly. Written by emerging academics, community-based writers, and senior scholars, each essay in this special issue, “Postposttranssexual: Key Concepts for a Twenty-First-Century Transgender Studies,” revolves around a particular keyword or concept. Some contributions focus on a concept central to transgender studies; others describe a term of art from another discipline or interdisciplinary area and show how it might relate to transgender studies. While far from providing a complete picture of the field, these keywords begin to elucidate a conceptual vocabulary for transgender studies. Some of the submissions offer a deep and resilient resistance to the entire project of mapping the field terminologically; some reveal yet-unrealized critical potentials for the field; some take existing terms from canonical thinkers and develop the significance for transgender studies; some offer overviews of well-known methodologies and demonstrate their applicability within transgender studies; some suggest how transgender issues play out in various fields; and some map the productive tensions between trans studies and other interdisciplines.
Survivorship of standard versus modified posterior surgical approaches in metal-on-metal hip resurfacing
Authors: M. Takamura K. , Maher P. , Nath T. , Su E. P.
Published: May 2014

Objectives

Metal-on-metal hip resurfacing (MOMHR) is available as an alternative option for younger, more active patients. There are failure modes that are unique to MOMHR, which include loosening of the femoral head and fractures of the femoral neck. Previous studies have speculated that changes in the vascularity of the femoral head may contribute to these failure modes. This study compares the survivorship between the standard posterior approach (SPA) and modified posterior approach (MPA) in MOMHR.

Methods

A retrospective clinical outcomes study was performed examining 351 hips (279 male, 72 female) replaced with Birmingham Hip Resurfacing (BHR, Smith and Nephew, Memphis, Tennessee) in 313 patients with a pre-operative diagnosis of osteoarthritis. The mean follow-up period for the SPA group was 2.8 years (0.1 to 6.1) and for the MPA, 2.2 years (0.03 to 5.2); this difference in follow-up period was statistically significant (p < 0.01). Survival analysis was completed using the Kaplan–Meier method.

Results

At four years, the Kaplan–Meier survival curve for the SPA was 97.2% and 99.4% for the MPA; this was statistically significant (log-rank; p = 0.036). There were eight failures in the SPA and two in the MPA. There was a 3.5% incidence of femoral head collapse or loosening in the SPA and 0.4% in the MPA, which represented a significant difference (p = 0.041). There was a 1.7% incidence of fractures of the femoral neck in the SPA and none in the MPA (p = 0.108).

Conclusion

This study found a significant difference in survivorship at four years between the SPA and the MPA (p = 0.036). The clinical outcomes of this study suggest that preserving the vascularity of the femoral neck by using the MPA results in fewer vascular-related failures in MOMHRs. Cite this article: Bone Joint Res 2014;3:150–4
Software-assisted harmonic function discrimination
Authors: Manzo V. J.
Published: May 2014

Determining the function of chords within a diatonic key can be difficult, especially for those listeners who do not regularly play instruments capable of producing chords. Software-based instruments, however, can allow an individual to play chords by pressing a single button as opposed to plucking several strings or pressing several keys. This quantitative study addressed two research questions: to what extent is a software-based musical instrument able to assist individuals in recognizing chord-contexts to the extent that traditional chordal instruments do? In what ways does a software-based musical instrument compare to a traditional chordal instrument as a viable aid for assisting individuals in chord-determination activities? In this Pre-/Post-test designed study, two groups of undergraduate music majors using either a chordal instrument or a software-instrument completed activities that emphasized understanding chord progressions. Results were compared within the groups and between groups. Both groups improved to some extent and there was no significant difference between the improvements within both groups overall, suggesting that the software instrument was as viable a mechanism for supporting the musical task as the traditional instrument. Additionally, the data suggest that the ability to recognize two of the five progressions, the vi IV I V and the I V vi IV, improved significantly in the experimental group but not in the control group.
Pilot-testing of new software for measuring string players’ instrument tuning skills
Authors: Hopkins Michael T.
Published: May 2014

Computer-based software named the Tuning Perception Test (TPT) was developed using Processing, a free, open-source programming language. The specific pitch perception skills examined by the software included unison pitch-matching and harmonic P5 interval tuning. A pilot-test established reliability for the TPT and gathered preliminary data on string instrumentalists’ tuning accuracy at varied school levels (fifth, seventh, ninth, eleventh-grade, university music majors). Reliability was very strong for pitch-matching items (α=0.90) and for the perfect fifth tuning items (α=0.91). Pitch-matching and P5 tuning accuracy improved consistently as school level increased, suggesting that refinement of pitch perception occurs gradually over time, with beginning and intermediate string instrumentalists requiring training in pitch-matching and interval tuning to develop the pitch perception skills necessary to accurately tune a stringed instrument. Participants demonstrated a tendency towards tuning flat, with tuning accuracy decreasing at lower fundamental frequencies.
Supporting students in music technology higher education to learn computer programming
Authors: Moore David
Published: May 2014

This article examines methods for supporting students in music technology-related higher education to learn computer programming. The central argument made in this work is that using collaborative activities and encouraging regular reflective writing can benefit novices in their programming. To support this argument evidence from the teaching and learning literature will be presented along with primary research findings by the author. The research findings indicate that the collaborative activities and reflective writing exercise employed on an audio programming module were successful in supporting novices and helped to promote a more active learning environment with evidence of deeper learning and engagement in programming concepts.
Play-based, constructionist learning of Pure Data: A case study
Authors: Hancock Oliver
Published: May 2014

This article examines a teaching approach founded on play-based learning, and underpinned by constructionist learning theory. This study describes a pilot programme introducing Pure Data (Pd) to undergraduate Music Production students as part of an Electronic Music module. The project was allowed to evolve and develop during the module in response to student needs and feedback. The teaching materials and pedagogy are presented along with lesson observations, tutor reflections and student feedback. The resources are evaluated using the Sig-Glue framework, and also examined for other desirable features of play-based resources. It is concluded that the resources incorporate many, but not all features which are conducive to play-based learning, and that students exhibit some behaviours typical of play-based learning. It is suggested that the approach may particularly suit non-programmers. Preliminary insights are offered along with recommendations for improvements and further applications.
MÉTODOS DE AVALIAÇÃO DA ADESÃO FARMACOTERAPÊUTICA ADOTADOS NO BRASIL
Authors: Trauthman Silvana Cristina , Biudes Marcela Ferro Biudes Ferro Biudes , Mello Alexandra Ferro de , Rosa Fernanda Santana , Peters Carla Antunes , Galato Dayani
Published: May 2014

Um dos maiores desafios para a promoção do uso racional de medicamentos é a promoção da adesão e, portanto, há a necessidade de avaliação deste comportamento. Com o objetivo de identificar os métodos utilizados para medir a adesão terapêutica no Brasil, foi realizada uma revisão bibliográfica narrativa. Pesquisou-se nas bases SCIELO, MEDLINE e BVS adotando-se os descritores: adesão ao tratamento, adesão à medicação, medicamento, Brasil e psicometria e suas respectivas traduções em inglês e espanhol. Foram localizados 542 trabalhos, excluídos os repetidos, aqueles que não avaliavam a adesão e os artigos de revisão, foram selecionados 67 trabalhos. A investigação da adesão ganhou destaque no país, principalmente, a partir do ano 2000. As doenças mais investigadas foram a Aids e tuberculose. O tipo de estudo mais adotado foi o transversal, geralmente investigando pacientes adultos. Foram encontradas 16 diferentes métodos de medida, dos quais os mais frequentes foram os instrumentos de medida de adesão e os inquéritos sobre a administração de medicamento em um determinado período. Estes resultados apontam que o estudo da adesão terapêutica no Brasil é recente, sendo verificada a utilização, principalmente nas doenças infecciosas e através de técnicas indiretas de medida. É observada a falta de padronização na avaliação da adesão considerando as especificidades terapêuticas demandadas pelas diferentes doenças.
PREVALÊNCIA DE MEDICAMENTOS POTENCIALMENTE INAPROPRIADOS PARA IDOSOS ENTRE OS PADRONIZADOS NO HOSPITAL UNIVERSITÁRIO REGIONAL DE MARINGÁ DE ACORDO COM OS CRITÉRIOS DE BEERS-FICK
Authors: Stroher Amanda , Zubioli Arnaldo
Published: May 2014

No Brasil, a transição demográfica de país jovem para idoso foi uma das mais rápidas do mundo. O metabolismo de fármacos em um indivíduo idoso pode ser alterado por vários fatores, sendo agravado pela presença de enfermidades crônicas e eventualmente por processos patológicos agudos. Isso geralmente leva os idosos a serem submetidos à terapêutica farmacológica com diversos fármacos. Alguns métodos podem ser utilizados para se avaliar a terapêutica farmacológica nessas pessoas, como os critérios de Beers-Fick, que pretende identificar medicamentos potencialmente inapropriados para idosos (MPI). O uso de MPI associado à terapêutica farmacológica com diversos fármacos aumenta a incidência de efeitos adversos. Nesse sentido, o propósito deste estudo é verificar a prevalência de MPI para idosos, de acordo com os critérios de Beers-Fick, entre os padronizados no Hospital Universitário Regional de Maringá. Foi observada uma alta prevalência desses medicamentos (24%), com vários fármacos associados a mais de um tipo de reação adversa. Os resultados sugerem que apesar de os critérios de Beers-Fick não contemplarem alguns fármacos passíveis de reações adversas, ele tem sido útil para identificar a maioria desses efeitos. A identificação dessas reações adversas permite aperfeiçoar a terapêutica farmacológica e diminuir os gastos com a saúde, além de melhorar a qualidade de vida dos pacientes idosos.
Modulation of the electrochemical properties of SBS-based anionic membranes by the amine molecular structure
Authors: Filpi Antonio , Boccia Massimiliano , Pucci Andrea , Ciardelli Francesco
Published: May 2014

In this work, different amines (bifunctional, as diazabicyclo[2.2.2]octane (Dabco) and monofunctional, as N-methylimidazole or trimethylamine) were utilized for the amination of benzyl chloride-grafted polystyrene-b-poly(butadiene)-bpolystyrene triblock copolymers (SBS-g-VBC). The use of Dabco solutions in mixture with variable amounts of monoamine or at different concentration allowed to modulate the degree of crosslinking of the SBS-based membranes and their electrochemical parameters. More specifically, tuning Dabco concentration permitted the reduction of water uptake without significantly affecting ionic conductivity.
Synthesis, characterization, and drug delivery property of 2-N-carboxymethyl-6-O-diethylaminoethyl-chitosan
Authors: Zhang Aidi , Ding Derun , Ren Jicun , Zhu Xiangli , Yao Youhong
Published: May 2014

A novel route is demonstrated for the synthesis of 2-N-carboxymethyl-6- O-diethylaminoethyl-chitosan (DEAE-CMC) by incorporation of carboxymethyl groups as hydrophilic moieties to the C2-NH2, and diethylaminoethyl groups as hydrophobic moieties to the C6-CH2OH of the structural unit of chitosan, via a protection-graft-deprotection procedure with benzaldehyde as protective agent. The structure, morphology, and thermal properties of the chitosan graft copolymers were characterized by means of FT-IR, 1H NMR, SEM, TGA and DSC. Chitosan and its derivatives were used as carrier of model drug-Vitamin B12 (VB12), and their controlled delivery behaviour in phosphate buffer solution (pH 7.4) were studied. The results show that the release rate of VB12 from the carrier of DEAE-CMC copolymer becomes much slower than that of chitosan in phosphate buffer solution.
A numerical study on deformation of Newtonian droplets through converging cylindrical dies
Authors: Mostafaiyan M. , Saeb M.R. , Ahmadi Z. , Khonakdar H.A. , Wagenknecht U. , Heinrich G.
Published: May 2014

In this work, the dynamic deformation of a viscose Newtonian droplet passing through cylindrical converging dies has been studied. The changes in the interfacial area between two immiscible Newtonian fluids have been considered as a variable representing the time-dependent deformation of a circular droplet along converging dies. To do so, a surface tracking method has been incorporated into a finite element code, developed by the authors, which quantifies the deformation of the droplet through the converging path, and where the surface area of the deformed drop has been consequently chosen as a criterion for a two-phase interface. In this study, it has been revealed that by changing both rheological and geometrical parameters it is possible to manage the value of interface area between two phases. Ultimately, a unique curve is developed for each droplet to primary phase viscosity ratio which can correlate drop deformation with geometrical parameters.
Unperturbed dimensions of polymers revisited through the blob theory: the viscometric expansion factor
Authors: Dondos Anastasios
Published: May 2014

Plotting log([η]/M1/2) versus log(N/Nc) where [η] is the intrinsic viscosity of the macromolecular chain of molecular mass equal to M and N/Nc is the number of blobs of which this chain consists (N: the number of statistical segment of the chain and Nc : the number of statistical segment of one blob), we obtain the unperturbed dimensions parameter of the blob, Kθb. This graphical representation in this article is based on a modified, original equation of Han [6] based on the blob theory. The obtained value of Kθb for a given polymer, dissolved in a good solvent, is lower than the unperturbed dimensions parameter, Kθ, obtained for the same polymer in the Flory’s theta conditions. Having Kθb < Kθ we obtain for the viscometric expansion factors of a polymer, based on Kθb or Kθ, αηb > αη. With the obtained values of αηb we find αηb3/αs2αH ≈ 1, as predicted by Weill and des Cloizeauz [1], where using αη we obtain αη3/αs2αH ≈ 0.85 (αs and αH are the static and dynamical expansions factors).
Acicular precipitated calcium carbonate as inorganic whisker for reinforcing of polypropylene fibers
Authors: Vogel Roland , Boldt Regine , Vučak Marijan , Nover Christoph , Häussler Liane , Brünig Harald
Published: May 2014

Acicular precipitated calcium carbonate (PCC) was used as appropriate inorganic whisker for improving the mechanical properties of melt spun polypropylene fibers. Nucleation effects of the PCC in dependence to concentration, surface coating and pre-shearing were analyzed. Melt-spinning experiments were carried out in order to determine the reinforcing effect.
Evolving Domestic Bond Markets and Financial Deepening in Asia
Authors: Das Dilip K.
Published: May 2014

The principal thesis of this paper is growth and development of the debt securities markets in Asia, which resulted in financial deepening. In the post-Asian financial crisis period development of Asian currency dominated long-term bond markets was given a high priority. Conception and launch of the ABMI initiative proved to be exceedingly meaningful in this regard. Additionally, with an objective to develop well-capitalized regional bond markets, the EMEAP group of central banks launched the Asian Bond Fund or the ABF1 and ABF2. This process was exceedingly helpful in providing opportunities for learning the game of issuing and investing in bonds. In the post-Asian crisis phase central bankers and finance ministries in several Asian economies were successful in their efforts to develop domestic or local currency bond markets, which included both the government and corporate bond sectors. The paper discusses both the government and corporate bond markets in Asia. During the decade of the 2000s domestic debt securities markets in several Asian economies expanded dramatically. This paper shows that the global financial crisis and the Eurozone sovereign debt crisis have had both direct and indirect impacts over the global economy. However, statistical data show that the global financial crisis (2007–2009) had only a minor impact on the Asian bond issue trend.
Humor in leader-follower relationships: Humor styles, similarity and relationship quality
Authors: Wisse Barbara , Rietzschel Eric
Published: May 2014

The present study focuses on how humor may affect the quality of the relationship between leader and follower (LMX). More specifically, we examined the impact of follower self-reported humor style and leader self-reported humor style on the extent to which followers perceived their relationship with their leader to be of high quality (in terms of affect, loyalty, contribution and professional respect). We also investigated the role of congruence between leader humor style and follower humor style in the reported quality of their relationship. We present the results of a multi-level study of leaders (N = 88) and their followers (N = 257) showing that LMX is positively related to follower affiliative humor style and negatively related to follower aggressive humor style. In addition, LMX is higher with stronger congruence in self-defeating humor styles: leaders' self-defeating humor was positively associated with LMX when followers were high (and not when they were low) in self-defeating humor. These results imply that future studies may benefit from differentiating between different humor styles in order to better understand the role of humor in the intricate relationship between leaders and their followers.
Evaluation and Optimization of Steam and Lye Peeling Processes of Sweet Potato (Ipomea batatas) using Response Surface Methodology (RSM)
Authors: Oladejo Ayobami O. , Sobukola Olajide P. , Awonorin Samuel O. , Adejuyigbe Samuel B.
Published: May 2014

Sweet potato of uniform sizes and shape were subjected to steam peeling (temperature 80–100°C and peeling time 5–15 min) and lye peeling (sodium hydroxide concentration 8–12%, temperature 80–100°C and peeling time 3–5 min). Response surface methodology was used to analyze and optimize the process parameters in each case. For steam peeling, the peel loss and unpeeled surface area were 6.85 and 28.16%, respectively, while optimum peeling conditions where temperature and peeling time of 100°C and 5 min, respectively, for minimum peel loss and unpeeled surface area. For lye peeling, however, the peel loss and unpeeled surface area were 13.19 and 13.35%, respectively, and optimum peeling conditions were lye concentration, temperature and peeling time of 8.89%, 100°C and 4.75 min, respectively, for minimum peel loss and unpeeled surface area. The models developed in each case (R-squared of 0.9225 and 0.8428; 0.5929 and 0.8346) were adequate in producing responses as a function of the independent variables. From the optimized values and results obtained, lye peeling was more suitable for sweet potato.
Placenta-secreted circulating markers in pregnant women with obstructive sleep apnea
Authors: Bourjeily Ghada , Curran Patrizia , Butterfield Kristen , Maredia Hasina , Carpenter Marshall , Lambert-Messerlian Geralyn
Published: May 2014

Aims: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is associated with placenta-mediated adverse clinical outcomes. We aimed at comparing placenta-secreted proteins, such as first and second trimester Down syndrome screening markers which have been linked to preeclampsia, and markers of angiogenesis in pregnant women with OSA, and pregnant controls at low risk for OSA.

Methods: A case-control study of pregnant women with OSA and controls at low risk for OSA was performed. Levels of first and second trimester markers were reported as multiple of median (MoM), and adjusted for body mass index (BMI). Stored samples were tested for markers of angiogenesis and adjusted for gestational age, BMI, and chronic hypertension.

Results: A total of 24 women with OSA and 166 controls had screening markers. BMI was higher in cases compared to controls, P=0.01. MoM levels of placenta associated plasma protein-A (PAPP-A) were significantly lower in cases versus controls, even after adjusting for BMI (0.52 IQR 0.48 vs. 1.01 IQR 0.63, P=0.009). The ratio of soluble vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 1 to placental growth factor was significantly higher in cases than controls, even after adjusting for confounders (4.42 IQR 2.52 vs. 2.93 IQR 2.01, P=0.009).

Conclusion: Circulating placenta-secreted glycoproteins and markers of angiogenesis are altered in pregnant women with OSA.
Crystal structure of 2-methyl-1-((4-((2-methyl-1H-benzo[d]imidazol-1-yl)- methyl)phenyl)methyl)-1H-benzo[d]imidazole (2,5-dicarboxybenzoate), C42H34N4O12
Authors: Chen Shi-Jun , Li Shi-Hui
Published: May 2014

C
Crystal structure of 2-(methylthio)thiazolo[5,4-c]pyridine, C7H6N2S2
Authors: Tian Xin-Zhe , Du Jin-Ping , Sun Yan-Pei
Published: May 2014

C
Estimating the bioavailability of trace metals/metalloids and persistent organic substances in terrestrial environments: challenges and need for multidisciplinary approaches
Authors: Fedotov Petr S.
Published: May 2014

Definitions and terms related to bioavailability and bioaccessibility of trace metals/metalloids and organic contaminants in soil are briefly discussed and critically evaluated. Main distinguishing features of estimating the bioavailability by biological (in vivo) methods are characterized. Assessment of bioaccessibility using biomimetric (in vitro) methods and existing correlations with in vivo tests are summarized. The most promising biomimetric methods can be as follows: CaCl2 extraction for the assessment of metals biouptake into plants; solid-phase micro extraction, supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) under mild conditions as well as Tenax and hydroxypropyl-beta-cyclodextrin (HPCD) extractions for the estimation of biouptake of persistent organic compounds (e.g., polynuclear aromatic hydrocarbons and polychlorinated biphenyls) by soil-dwelling organisms (mainly earthworms); SFE under mild conditions, HPCD and Tenax extraction for the prediction of biodegradability (microbial degradation) of organic contaminants. However, method development should be extended to further classes of substances. In addition, multidisciplinary approaches are needed for (i) standardization and round-robin studies of the most promising biomimetric methods and protocols so that the data obtained in different laboratories can be compared; (ii) further assessment and critical evaluation of correlations between in vitro and in vivo tests; application of chemometric techniques for handling sets of data obtained both by biomimetric and biological methods is of particular importance in order to evaluate new criteria for risk assessment.
Fabrication and modification of mixed matrix polyvinylchloride based heterogeneous cation exchange membrane by Ag nanolayer/plasma treatment: investigation of nanolayer deposition rate effect
Authors: Zendehnam Akbar , Arabzadegan Mina , Hosseini Sayed Mohsen , Robatmili Nasrin
Published: May 2014

In this research, mixed matrix cation exchange membranes were prepared by the solution casting technique using polyvinylchloride (PVC) as base binder, resin powder as functional groups agent, iron-nickel oxide nanoparticles as adsorptive filler and silver (Ag) nanolayers as surface modifier. Ag nanolayer was deposited on the membrane surface by the magnetron sputtering method. The effects of nanolayer deposition rate (low, medium and high) on physicochemical and antibacterial characteristics of the membranes were studied. X-ray diffraction (XRD) results revealed that membrane crystallinity was improved with increase in deposition rate. In addition, atomic force microscopy (AFM) results showed that membrane roughness was decreased by increase in deposition rate. Membrane selectivity was slightly enhanced by increase in Ag nanolayer deposition rate in modified membranes. Ionic fluxes were also increased by increase in Ag nanolayer deposition rate in membranes. Moreover, membranes containing Ag nanolayers showed good ability in Escherichia coli removal. The Ag nanolayer-modified membranes at a high deposition rate showed better performance compared to others.
A new approach for the development of textile waste cotton reinforced composites (T-FRP): laminated hybridization vs. coupling agents
Authors: Bodur Mehmet Safa , Bakkal Mustafa , Savas Mehmet , Berkalp Omer Berk
Published: May 2014

This paper presents two separate methods to improve the tensile strength (TS) of textile waste cotton reinforced polymer composites (T-FRP) as prospective functional materials with respect to environmental concerns. Two very different methods were designed in order to improve the TS of the composite. In the first method, maleated anhydride polyethylene was added as the coupling agent into the composite composition, whereas in the second method, a totally new glass fiber and glass fabric laminated hybrid composite structure was designed. In this first study, the coupling agent was mixed up to 5 wt% into the composite structure in order to improve the bonding interface between low density polyethylene (LDPE) matrix and cotton waste fibers. The effect of the coupling agent was evaluated and compared with the unmodified one. By contrast, chopped glass (CG) fibers and woven biaxial glass fabrics were introduced into the composite layers with the intention of designing a new hybrid composite structure as a second study. The TS of the materials was evaluated and the fracture surface was assessed with an optical microscope. Consequently, an improvement in TS of 50% and 230% was achieved by the addition of the coupling agent and the creation of a new hybrid composite, respectively.
Investigation on the influence of metal ion impurities on the complexation behavior of generator produced 90Y with different bifunctional chelators
Authors: Pandey Usha , Gamre Naresh , Chakravarty Rubel , Pillai Maroor Raghavan Ambikalmajan , Dash Ashutosh
Published: May 2014

While the 90Sr/90Y generator is the exclusive source of obtaining `no carrier added' 90Y for
targeted therapy, the presence of trace metals in the radiolabeling solutions poses a serious challenge owing to their ability to
diminish the 90Y complexation yields with bifunctional chelators (BFCs). p-SCN-Bn-PCTA is a novel ligand having faster
complexation kinetics with a number of radiometals. In this work, a systematic investigation was performed to evaluate the chelating
ability of p-SCN-Bn-PCTA for 90Y and the influence of trace metal ions on it's complexation with 90Y in
comparison to p-SCN-Bn-DTPA and p-SCN-Bn-DOTA using 90YCl3 obtained from an electrochemical generator. Results from our
study indicate that while p-SCN-Bn-PCTA gave very good radiolabeling yields with 90Y when the reaction was carried out by
heating for few minutes, it was most sensitive to the presence of trace metals, especially Fe(III). An independent and useful
observation is that p-SCN-Bn-PCTA could be considered as the ligand of choice for assessing the chemical purity of generator derived
90Y.
The adsorption kinetics and thermodynamics of cationic surfactants on graphite oxide
Authors: Lin Shun-Jia , Sun Hong-Juan , Peng Tong-Jiang , Wang Pei-Cao
Published: May 2014

The adsorption isotherms and structural evolution of alkyl quaternary ammonium bromide (C
n
TAB) on graphite oxide (GO) were measured by means of an elemental analyzer, X-ray diffraction and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. In order to interpret the adsorption mechanism of surfactants onto GO, the adsorption kinetics and thermodynamics were further investigated. It was found that GO is a relatively efficient adsorbent within a wide range of temperatures (297–353 K), and the C
n
TAB was intercalated and then agglomerated into the interlayer spacing of GO via ionic bonding and hydrophobic bonding. The saturation amount of alkyl ammonium adsorbed on GO was decreased with the rise in temperature, and the experimental data fitted well into the modified Langmuir (Langmuir-Freundlich) equation. In addition, the negative values of ΔG and ΔH showed that the adsorption process of C
n
TAB onto the GO was spontaneous and exothermic.
Thioredoxin‐interacting protein regulates protein disulfide isomerases and endoplasmic reticulum stress
Authors: Lee Samuel , Min Kim Soo , Dotimas James , Li Letitia , Feener Edward P , Baldus Stephan , Myers Ronald B , Chutkow William A , Patwari Parth , Yoshioka Jun , Lee Richard T
Published: May 2014

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is responsible for protein folding, modification, and trafficking. Accumulation of unfolded or misfolded proteins represents the condition of ER stress and triggers the unfolded protein response (UPR), a key mechanism linking supply of excess nutrients to insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes in obesity. The ER harbors proteins that participate in protein folding including protein disulfide isomerases (PDIs). Changes in PDI activity are associated with protein misfolding and ER stress. Here, we show that thioredoxin‐interacting protein (Txnip), a member of the arrestin protein superfamily and one of the most strongly induced proteins in diabetic patients, regulates PDI activity and UPR signaling. We found that Txnip binds to PDIs and increases their enzymatic activity. Genetic deletion of Txnip in cells and mice led to increased protein ubiquitination and splicing of the UPR regulated transcription factor X‐box‐binding protein 1 (Xbp1s) at baseline as well as under ER stress. Our results reveal Txnip as a novel direct regulator of PDI activity and a feedback mechanism of UPR signaling to decrease ER stress.
A 15-year-old adolescent with a rare pituitary lesion
Authors: Manousaki Despoina , Deal Cheri , De Bruycker Jean Jacques , Ovetchkine Philippe , Mercier Claude , Alos Nathalie
Published: May 2014

Cystic sellar lesions are a rare cause of hypopituitarism and extremely rare in the pediatric age group. The differential diagnosis is large and includes both primary pituitary abscesses and cystic components on pre-existing lesions, such as adenoma, craniopharyngioma, Rathke's cleft cyst, leukemia, granulomatous disease and lymphocytic hypophysitis. In the absence of a definitive diagnosis, treatment can be challenging. We report a case of a 15-year-old female, who presented with headaches, altered consciousness and diplopia after a molar extraction, for which she had received oral antibiotics. Broad-spectrum i.v. antibiotics were given for presumed meningitis. Blood cultures failed to identify pathogens. Cerebral magnetic resonance imaging showed a pituitary cystic lesion. Endocrine studies revealed abnormal pituitary function. In the absence of a therapeutic response, the patient underwent a transsphenoidal biopsy of the pituitary gland, which yielded a purulent liquid, but cultures were negative. Histopathology showed lymphocytic infiltrates but no neutrophils, compatible with an inflammation of autoimmune or infectious origin. High-dose glucocorticoid therapy was started and pursued, along with i.v. antibiotics, for 6 weeks, leading to clinical and radiological improvement but with persistence of endocrine deficits. In conclusion, this is a case of secondary panhypopituitarism due to a cystic pituitary lesion, with a differential diagnosis of lymphocytic hypophysitis vs abscess in a context of decapitated meningitis. Combination therapy with antibiotics and glucocorticoids is a legitimate approach in the face of diagnostic uncertainty, given the morbidity, and even mortality, associated with these lesions.

Learning points

It is not always easy to differentiate primary cystic sellar lesions (such as a primary infectious pituitary abscess) from cystic components on pre-existing lesions (such as adenoma, craniopharyngioma, Rathke's cleft cyst, leukemia or lymphocytic hypophysitis).

Because of the absence of specific symptoms and of immunohistochemical and serum markers, response to glucocorticoids can be the only way to differentiate lymphocytic hypophysitis from pituitary lesions of another origin. In addition, microbiological cultures are negative in 50% of cases of primary infectious sellar abscesses, thus the response to antibiotic treatment is often the key element to this diagnosis.

A short course of high-dose glucocorticoids combined with antibiotics is not harmful in cases where there is no diagnostic certainty as to the origin of a cystic sellar mass, given the morbidity and mortality associated with these lesions.

This approach may also diminish inflammation of either infectious or autoimmune origin while ensuring that the most likely pathogens are being targeted.
Developmental programing: impact of testosterone on placental differentiation
Authors: Beckett E M , Astapova O , Steckler T L , Veiga-Lopez A , Padmanabhan V
Published: May 2014

Gestational testosterone treatment causes maternal hyperinsulinemia, intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR), low birth weight, and adult reproductive and metabolic dysfunctions. Sheep models of IUGR demonstrate placental insufficiency as an underlying cause of IUGR. Placental compromise is probably the cause of fetal growth retardation in gestational testosterone-treated sheep. This study tested whether testosterone excess compromises placental differentiation by its androgenic action and/or via altered insulin sensitivity. A comparative approach of studying gestational testosterone (aromatizable androgen) against dihydrotestosterone (non-aromatizable androgen) or testosterone plus androgen antagonist, flutamide, was used to determine whether the effects of testosterone on placental differentiation were programed by its androgenic actions. Co-treatment of testosterone with the insulin sensitizer, rosiglitazone, was used to establish whether the effects of gestational testosterone on placentome differentiation involved compromised insulin sensitivity. Parallel cohorts of pregnant females were maintained for lambing and the birth weight of their offspring was recorded. Placental studies were conducted on days 65, 90, or 140 of gestation. Results indicated that i) gestational testosterone treatment advances placental differentiation, evident as early as day 65 of gestation, and culminates in low birth weight, ii) placental advancement is facilitated at least in part by androgenic actions of testosterone and is not a function of disrupted insulin homeostasis, and iii) placental advancement, while helping to increase placental efficiency, was insufficient to prevent IUGR and low-birth-weight female offspring. Findings from this study may be of relevance to women with polycystic ovary syndrome, whose reproductive and metabolic phenotype is captured by the gestational testosterone-treated offspring.
Fighting a Losing Battle: Vigorous Immune Response Countered by Pathogen Suppression of Host Defenses in the Chytridiomycosis-Susceptible FrogAtelopus zeteki
Authors: Ellison Amy R , Savage Anna E , DiRenzo Grace V , Langhammer Penny , Lips Karen R , Zamudio Kelly R
Published: May 2014

The emergence of the disease chytridiomycosis caused by the chytrid fungus Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd) has been implicated in dramatic global amphibian declines. Although many species have undergone catastrophic declines and/or extinctions, others appear to be unaffected or persist at reduced frequencies after Bd outbreaks. The reasons behind this variance in disease outcomes are poorly understood: differences in host immune responses have been proposed, yet previous studies suggest a lack of robust immune responses to Bd in susceptible species. Here, we sequenced transcriptomes from clutch-mates of a highly susceptible amphibian, Atelopus zeteki, with different infection histories. We found significant changes in expression of numerous genes involved in innate and inflammatory responses in infected frogs despite high susceptibility to chytridiomycosis. We show evidence of acquired immune responses generated against Bd, including increased expression of immunoglobulins and major histocompatibility complex genes. In addition, fungal-killing genes had significantly greater expression in frogs previously exposed to Bd compared with Bd-naïve frogs, including chitinase and serine-type proteases. However, our results appear to confirm recent in vitro evidence of immune suppression by Bd, demonstrated by decreased expression of lymphocyte genes in the spleen of infected compared with control frogs. We propose susceptibility to chytridiomycosis is not due to lack of Bd-specific immune responses but instead is caused by failure of those responses to be effective. Ineffective immune pathway activation and timing of antibody production are discussed as potential mechanisms. However, in light of our findings, suppression of key immune responses by Bd is likely an important factor in the lethality of this fungus.
Notes from the Nanaimo bar trail
Authors: Newman Lenore Lauri
Published: May 2014

Archival work suggests that the Nanaimo bar is based on a recipe for unbaked chocolate cake published in the Vancouver Sun in 1947 and republished in 1948. The bar itself was likely developed by a member or members of the Nanaimo Hospital Auxiliary, and the first known recipe was published in 1952 in that group’s cookbook. The mystery of the bar’s origins is explored, the bar's place within the tradition of 'dainties' is noted, and its current role within Nanaimo’s efforts at place making is documented.
The spaces for farmers in the city: A case study comparison of Direct Selling Alternative Food Networks in Toronto, Canada and Belo Horizonte, Brazil
Authors: Pratley Erin Maureen , Dodson Belinda
Published: May 2014

The current focus of Alternative Food Network (AFN) literature in the global North overlooks the reality of Southern AFNs and the potential contributions from studying Southern case studies.  In this research, we used interviews and observation to determine how the differing valuations of ‘local’ food and farmers in two case study locations, one in the global North (Toronto, Canada) and one in the global South (Belo Horizonte, Brazil), affected the physical, economic, and political spaces in the city for farmers participating in the AFNs. The geographical concepts of scale, space and place are central to understanding Alternative Food Networks (AFNs).  Drawing on work by Cook and Crang (1996) on ‘geographical knowledges’, we examined how farmers and consumers reinforced and constructed different narratives of ‘local’ food, which was valued by affluent consumers in Toronto but not by affluent consumers in Belo Horizonte. In Toronto, farmers operated in physical spaces that put them in contact with affluent consumers, and they were able to take advantage of both at market and off market economic spaces. In Belo Horizonte, farmers were relegated to marginal physical spaces, and had limited economic and political power. There were broader social justice implications related to whether the AFN operated mainly within affluent or marginal spaces. These case studies demonstrate that the scale, space and place are actively constructed, and certain constructions privilege some actors over others in the AFN and within the city.
Food by Jennifer Clapp
Authors: Yordy Christopher
Published: May 2014

The economic shocks witnessed at the time of the global food price crisis of 2008 were a stress test for governance mechanisms in the global food economy. As the decisions at the top of the largest transnational food corporations are often shrouded in secrecy, the associated patterns of governance have typically remained a matter for speculation for all but the most seasoned agribusiness and trade experts. Jennifer Clapp’s Food succeeds in exposing some of the primary forces behind the food economy, and maps the relationship between government, private industry, and the international institutions involved in food regulation. Through a compelling narrative, she offers a simplified view of the ascent of transnational corporations within this triumvirate, revealing their sources of power through a number of policy processes. Clapp’s work is essential reading for the contemporary food studies researcher, offering a stern forewarning that high food prices are likely to remain a permanent feature of the world food economy if no regulatory changes are made.