bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The rapid conversion of calcium aluminate cement hydrates, as revealed by synchrotron energy-dispersive diffraction
Authors: Rashid S. , Barnes P. , Turrillas X.
Published: July 2012

The exceptional speeds of data capture available with synchrotron diffraction systems have been adapted and used to examine the structural/dynamic order of events in rapid hydration and conversion of calcium aluminate cements at high temperatures (50–90°C). The time resolution of the results obtained is sufficient to reveal effects that were not detectable or even suspected from conventional laboratory analysis. In particular, C2AH8 emerges as a ubiquitous transitionary phase, initiating the formation of C3AH6 in both the hydration and conversion processes. The dynamic diffraction data are presented and interpreted in terms of model descriptions of the order of events in high-temperature hydration and conversion.
Properties of inorganic corrosion inhibition admixtures in steel-containing OPC mortars Part 2: Electrochemical properties
Authors: Yilmaz V. T. , Sagoe-Crentsil K. K. , Glasser F. P.
Published: July 2012

The inhibiting action of molybdate, borate and nitrite ions against Cl-induced corrosion of steel embedded in OPC mortar has been investigated by impedance spectroscopy and linear polarization techniques. Analytical electron microscopy has also been carried out on pure iron powder dispersed in the same mix formulations. All specimens were cured under conditions which mildly accelerate corrosion: 40°C and 100% relative humidity (RH). Anion inhibition efficiency is found to vary with cure duration, but after 180 days their inhibition is in the order nitrite < borate < molybdate. Both impedance spectroscopy and electron microscopy analyses indicate that molybdate inhibition is achieved through surface layer formation involving molybdenum participation during the normal thickening of the passivating iron oxide film. Similarities between the modes of inhibition of molybdate and borate are inferred and overall mechanisms are discussed; borate is, however, a less satisfactory additive because it inhibits cement hydration.
Application of electrical conductivity methods in interfacial cement chemistry
Authors: Xie Ping , Gu Ping , Beaudoin J. J.
Published: July 2012

The potential application of electrical conductivity methods in areas dealing with chemical reaction at interfaces is discussed. Attention is given to the alkali—aggregate reaction. The approach is also applied to a specific solid-liquid chemical reaction, i.e. pozzolanic reaction between silica fume and calcium hydroxide solution. New findings appear to be helpful in understanding the chemical reaction processes that occur in these systems.
Phase equlibria in the CaO — Al2O3 — SiO2 — H2O system at 5°C, 20°C and 38°C
Authors: Quillin K. C. , Majumdar A. J.
Published: July 2012

Gehlenite hydrate (C2ASH8) is the primary crystalline phase formed by the hydration of cements made by blending high-alumina cement with ground granulated blastfurnace slag. Phase relations in the CaO—Al2O3— SiO2—H2O system have been studied at 5°C, 20°C and 38°C to determine the likely stability of C2ASH8 in such cements. Some invariant-point compositions have been calculated using the solubility products obtained from the experimental results. These compositions have been used to identify the likely stable and metastable phase assemblages in the system. The compositions of siliceous hydrogarnets formed in the system have been determined.
Investigations on cement pastes by small-angle X-ray scattering and BET: the relevance of fractal geometry
Authors: Kriechbaum M. , Degovics G. , Laggner P. , Tritthart J.
Published: July 2012

The microstructural properties of Portland cement (PC) were studied and compared by small-angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) and the Brunauer—Emmett—Teller (BET) method. SAXS measurements have shown that the microstructure of PC samples cannot be described in terms of a classical porous medium with a well-defined specific inner surface, but rather obeys the formalism of fractal geometry. The application and potential of the SAXS technique for randomly disordered and fractal structures are outlined. Measurements have been taken on powdered and size-fractionated cement samples with different water—cement ratios (w/c) and different amounts of added chloride salts, and on different types of cements. The analysis of the data obtained by SAXS showed that inner surface and volume structure are fractal; however, only the mass fractal dimension Dm (2·3-3·0) could be evaluated with sufficient precision and reproducibility. By comparing these Dm values and the specific surface areas obtained by BET (40-70 m2/g), a correlation between Dm and BET surface was found when only one parameter (w/c) was varied. The SAXS measurements showed that drying procedures (which are necessary for BET measurements) give rise to a different microstructure of the cement samples, as revealed by different Dm values for these samples.
Dielectric behaviour of hardened cementitious materials
Authors: Gu Ping , Beaudoin J. J.
Published: July 2012

The dielectric behaviour of mature Portland cement pastes prepared at water/cement ratios 0·3 to 0·7, and pastes containing various percentages of silica fume at water/cement ratio 0·3 was investigated over a frequency range of 1 MHz to 1·5 GHz. The value of dielectric constant is water content dependent. A linear correspondence between dielectric constant and evaporable water was obtained for water-saturated pastes. Experimental results relating dielectric constants to porosity for Portland cement pastes hydrated jor one year were in good agreement with Sen s approximation for rock, e.g. ϵ′e = 1·5ϵ′cp + P1·5 (ϵ′e = 1·5ϵ′cp), where ϵ′e = the real part of the effective dielectric constant, ϵ′w = the real part of the dielectric constant of water, ϵ′cp = the real part of the dielectric constant of cement paste and P is the porosity Addition of silica fume appears to have a small and indirect effect on the dielectric constant value of the paste. This is due to the pore size effects and evaporable water content.
Use of Guided Tissue Regeneration in the Treatment of a Severe Endodontic–Periodontic Lesion: A 15‐Year Follow‐Up Case Report
Authors: Santana Ronaldo B. , Mattos Santana Carolina M.
Published: July 2012

Introduction: Treatment of combined endodontic–periodontic lesions remains a considerable challenge in clinical practice. The degree of success in the management of these lesions is related to the efficacy of both periodontal and endodontic treatments and is influenced by specific anatomic characteristics of the lesion. This report presents the long‐term clinical outcomes of a severe endodontic–periodontic lesion treated by guided tissue regeneration (GTR) and documented over a 15‐year period.

Case Presentation: A non‐smoking, 42‐year‐old female presented with a combined endodontic–periodontic lesion consisting of a large through‐and‐through apical lesion communicating with the marginal periodontium as a result of the complete loss of the facial bone plate. Treatment consisted of GTR and grafting with absorbable hydroxyapatite. The clinical variables evaluated were plaque, bleeding on probing (BOP), gingival recession, probing depth (PD), and clinical attachment level (CAL). Reevaluation was performed 1 year and 15 years after the surgical procedure. Healing was uneventful. Measurements revealed that PD was reduced by 17 mm, a 16‐mm CAL gain was recorded, and no BOP was detected at any tooth aspect. CAL gains were maintained up to the 15‐year recall. Radiographic evaluation demonstrated a complete resolution of the bony lesion at both 1 year and 15 years after surgery.

Conclusion: Severe combined endodontic–periodontic lesions can be successfully treated via regenerative techniques, and the resultant bone and CAL gains are preserved for several years after the active treatment.
A Case Report on Combination Therapy Using a Composite Allograft Containing Mesenchymal Cells With an Amnion–Chorion Barrier to Treat a Mandibular Class III Furcation
Authors: Rosen Paul S.
Published: July 2012

Introduction: Maintaining molars with Class III furcation invasion remains one of the greatest challenges in periodontics. Surgical treatment of these areas by any means has been disappointing. This case report describes a successful combined regenerative approach using a composite allograft with mesenchymal stem cells along with a barrier derived from human amnion–chorion to close a Class III furcation.

Case Presentation: The patient was a 62‐year‐old white male referred for the treatment of his periodontal and dental implant needs. The mandibular left required functional crown lengthening for the two premolars along with management of the Class III furcation on the first molar. The unopposed second molar with both an advanced osseous lesion and 1+ degree mobility was to be extracted. Surgical exposure allowed the furcation to be thoroughly scaled and planed, treated with tetracycline for root modification, followed by intramarrow penetration and recombinant platelet‐derived growth factor applied to the roots. A composite allograft containing mesenchymal cells was used to fill the defect, and it was layered by a barrier derived from human amnion–chorion tissue. The flaps were coronally advanced and sutured with expanded polytetrafluoroethylene. Six months after the completion of surgery, the furcation was closed to a Nabers probe from both the buccal and lingual aspects and radiographically, the area was radiopaque suggestive of bone fill/containment.

Conclusion: This case report demonstrates the closure of a Class III furcation based on horizontal probing and radiographic bone fill, giving hope that this combined approach for regeneration may hold promise for treating this most challenging of clinical dilemmas.
Influence of temperature and salinity on microbial structure of marine anammox bacteria
Authors: Awata Takanori , Tanabe Katsuichiro , Kindaichi Tomonori , Ozaki Noriatsu , Ohashi Akiyoshi
Published: July 2012

Anaerobic ammonium oxidation (anammox) is a type of biological oxidation mediated by a group of Planctomycete-like bacteria. Members of the genus Candidatus Scalindua are mainly found in marine environments, but not exclusively. This group is cultured using different inoculums and conditions; however, its optimal growth conditions are not clear. Additionally, little information is known about the factors that influence the activity and the selection of a population of marine anammox bacteria. This study was conducted to investigate the influence of temperature and salinity on the marine anammox community. To accomplish this, an up-flow fixed-bed column reactor was operated, and quantitative fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) with probes specific to dominant marine anammox bacteria was conducted. Anammox activity was observed at 20 and 30 °C, but not at 10 °C. A nitrogen removal rate of 0.32 kg TN m–3 day–1 was obtained at 20 °C. These results suggest that temperature affects the activity (nitrogen removal rate) of anammox bacteria, while salinity does not affect the activity in the marine anammox biofilm.
Elements concentration analysis in groundwater from the North Serra Geral aquifer in Santa Helena-Brazil using SR-TXRF spectrometer
Authors: Justen Gisele C. , Espinoza-Quiñones Fernando R. , Módenes Aparecido Nivaldo , Bergamasco Rosangela
Published: July 2012

In this work the analysis of elements concentration in groundwater was performed using the synchrotron radiation total-reflection X-ray fluorescence (SR-TXRF) technique. A set of nine tube-wells with serious risk of contamination was chosen to monitor the mean concentration of elements in groundwater from the North Serra Geral aquifer in Santa Helena, Brazil, during 1 year. Element concentrations were determined applying a SR-TXRF methodology. The accuracy of SR-TXRF technique was validated by analysis of a certified reference material. As the groundwater composition in the North Serra Geral aquifer showed heterogeneity in the spatial distribution of eight major elements, a hierarchical clustering to the data was performed. By a similarity in their compositions, two of the nine wells were grouped in a first cluster, while the other seven were grouped in a second cluster. Calcium was the major element in all wells, with higher Ca concentration in the second cluster than in the first cluster. However, concentrations of Ti, V, Cr in the first cluster are slightly higher than those in the second cluster. The findings of this study within a monitoring program of tube-wells could provide a useful assessment of controls over groundwater composition and support management at regional level.
Organic trace pollutants in the aquatic environment – regulatory and technical problem-solving approaches in Germany and China
Authors: Koester Stephan , Beier Silvio , Zhao Fang Fang , Sui Qian , Yu Gang , Pinnekamp Johannes
Published: July 2012

In recent years, worldwide awareness of an aquatic environment polluted by organic trace pollutants, e.g. pharmaceutical residues and industrial chemicals, has risen tremendously. The present paper outlines similarities and differences in how to face the organic trace pollutants occurring in the natural and urban water cycles in Germany and China. Our joint review clearly shows that this emerging environmental problem is in both countries being widely discussed on a scientific level and it is evidently perceived in a comparable way. However, while the state of knowledge, which is still unsatisfactory, induces further investigations in China, the research activities in Germany have already led to first full-scale applications to remove trace pollutants. While Germany seems to be one step ahead, China possibly is in a better position for a later trace pollutants removal due to the massively increasing use of membrane bioreactors as a key technology for the necessary expansion of wastewater treatment capacities.
Separation of oil-in-water emulsions by microbubble treatment and the effect of adding coagulant or cationic surfactant on removal efficiency
Authors: Van Le Tuan , Imai Tsuyoshi , Higuchi Takaya , Doi Ryosuke , Teeka Jantima , Xiaofeng Sun , Teerakun Mullika
Published: July 2012

This study examined the efficiencies of microbubble (MB) treatment, MB treatment with polyaluminium chloride (PAC) as a coagulant, and MB treatment with cetyltrimethylammonium chloride (CTAC) as a cationic surfactant in the separation of emulsified oil (EO) by modified column flotation. Batch mode experiments were conducted by synthesizing emulsified palm oil (d<20 μm), and the chemical oxygen demand (COD) of the influent and effluent was measured to evaluate the treatment performance. MB treatment with PAC and MB treatment with CTAC were found to be more efficient in EO removal than the MB treatment alone. At an EO concentration of ∼1,000 mg L−1 (pH 7) and under identical treatment conditions (MB generation time: 2.5 min, flotation time: 30 min), MB treatment with PAC (50 mg L−1) and that with CTAC (0.5 mg L−1) showed equally high EO removal efficiencies of 92 and 89%, respectively. This result is of significant relevance to studies focusing on the development of economical and high-efficiency flotation systems. Furthermore, the effect of pH was investigated by varying the sample pH from 3 to 8, which showed that the EO separation efficiency of MB alone increased drastically from slightly alkaline to acidic condition.
Raw water quality weight factors: Vaal basin, South Africa
Authors: Dzwairo B. , Otieno F. A. O. , Ochieng G. M. , Bezuidenhout J. J.
Published: July 2012

Weight factors (WFs) were developed for surface raw water pollution indicator variables in Vaal River's Upper and Middle Vaal sub-basins, in South Africa. The overall objective was to formulate a quantifiable ranking system to indicate importance of pollutant variables given their established effects on human and environmental health. Multi-criteria decision analysis (MCDA) was applied to qualitative data that were obtained from South Africa's target water quality ranges as well as from literature which represented expert opinion. The human and environmental health effect choice sets were ranked from 1 to 5 on nine pollutant variable criteria: NH3/NH4+, Cl−, conductivity (EC), dissolved oxygen (DO), pH, F−, NO3−/NO2−, PO43− and SO42−. The weighted-sum method (WSM) then assigned highest and lowest normalised weights (NWs) to F− and Cl−, respectively, for human health effects (εhh) alternative. Highest and lowest NWs were assigned to NH3/NH4ε and EC, respectively, for environmental health effects (εeh) alternative. After aggregating the εhh and εeh WFs, resultant values ranked the variables from highest to lowest as follows: F−>NO3−/NO2−>/NH3/NH4+>DO>pH>SO42−>PO43−>EC>Cl−. The results represented the importance of variables given their established effects on human and environmental health. It was concluded that WFs provided a quantifiable barometer which could signal harmful exposure to elucidate negative effects of using polluted surface raw water in the study area. The values could be incorporated into water quality models like water quality indices. The approach could be used to develop WFs for other sites, taking into account issues like the site's pollution variables of concern as well as using a ranking key constructed from established literature.
Treatment of Bleach Pulp Mill Effluent by MF‐MBR
Authors: Amaral Míriam C.S. , Lange Liséte C. , Borges Cristiano P.
Published: July 2012

The types of treatment most commonly used by pulp mills are biological treatments in combination with sedimentation or coagulation/flocculation as pretreatment. The main issues faced by these types of treatment are low efficiency in the removal of organic matter and the loss of aggregate value for the recovered fiber. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the use of microfiltration (MF) combined with a membrane bioreactor (MBR) for the treatment of bleach pulp mill effluents. The results showed that the use of the MF‐MBR system was an excellent alternative for the treatment of bleach pulp mill effluents with an average COD removal of 95%. The microfiltration allowed the recovery of fibers, which can be returned to the production process without losing economic value, and produced a better quality effluent for further treatment in the MBR. The MBR presented high efficiency removal of organic matter.
Adsorption of Microcystin‐LR from Water with Iron Oxide Nanoparticles
Authors: Gao Yu‐qiong , Gao Nai‐yun , Deng Yang , Gu Jin‐shan , Shen Yi‐chen , Wang Shao‐xiang
Published: July 2012

Adsorption of microcystin‐LR (MC‐LR) from water using iron oxide (α‐Fe2O3) nanoparticles was investigated in this study. Adsorption of MC‐LR adsorption was well‐described by a pseudo second order kinetics model and Freundlich and Langmuir isotherm equations at 15 to 35 °C. Thermodynamic analysis showed that the Gibbs free energy was negative, whereas standard enthalpy and entropy changes were positive at this temperature range. These findings suggest that the adsorption of MC‐LR on iron oxide nanoparticles was spontaneous and endothermic. The effects of initial pH, inorganic cations, and competing compounds with carboxyl groups on absorption of MC‐LR were also evaluated. Typically, adsorption efficiency decreased with increasing pH from 2 to 11. Sodium ions did not appear to significantly affect MC‐LR adsorption, whereas calcium ions slightly enhanced the MC‐LR adsorption capacity of the iron oxide nanoparticles. Moreover, the inhibiting effect of competing organic compounds was increased with increasing numbers of carboxyl groups, as follows: citric acid (3) > oxalic acid (2) > benzoic acid (1).
The effects of solvents and structure on the electronic absorption spectra of the isomeric pyridine carboxylic acid N-oxides
Authors: Drmanic Sasa , Nikolic Jasmina , Marinkovic Aleksandar , Sekularac Gavrilo , Jovanovic Bratislav
Published: July 2012

The ultraviolet absorption spectra of the carboxyl group of three isomeric
pyridine carboxylic acids N-oxides (picolinic acid N-oxide, nicotinic acid
N-oxide and isonicotinic acid N-oxide) were determined in fourteen solvents
in the wavelength range from 200 to 400 nm. The position of the absorption
maxima (?max) of the examined acids showed that the ultraviolet absorption
maximum wavelengths of picolinic acid N-oxide are the shortest, and those of
isonicotinic acid N-oxide acid are the longest. In order to analyze the
solvent effect on the obtained absorption spectra, the ultraviolet absorption
frequencies of the electronic transitions in the carboxylic group of the
examined acids were correlated using a total solvatochromic equation of the
form max = v0 + s? + a?+ b?, where ?max is the absorption frequency (1/?max),
p is a measure of the solvent polarity, ? represents the scale of solvent
hydrogen bond acceptor basicities and ? represent the scale of solvent
hydrogen bond donor acidities. The correlation of the spectroscopic data was
carried out by means of multiple linear regression analysis. The solvent
effects on the ultraviolet absorption maximums of the examined acids were
discussed.
Military necessity in Geneva conventions of 1949
Authors: Joncic Vladan , Petrovic Milos
Published: July 2012

The fundamental question of international law of armed conflict is the
question of military necessity principle in international law of armed
conflict, ie. in international humanitarian law. Hearings on this issue is
necessary because it is still the danger that the principle of recognition of
the needs of military regulations and deceive the application of
international law of armed conflict. That?s why the military needs to be seen
as a permitted deviation from compliance with rules of war. Extreme, this
concept has led to the emergence of the theory of the military. Its radical
variant of the proceeds from the Maxims of German classical scholars of
international law. The result of theoretical assumptions had the effect of
limiting the acceptance of military necessity of the first codification of
the day. The four Geneva Conventions of 1949. The heavily consider the
military. In all the texts of international conventions is determined by
military necessity, as a circumstance or set of circumstances which affect
the duty of obeying the regulations of international law. In international
law there is no general rule of military necessity as a basis or reason for
justified violations of rules of international law of armed conflict. The
rules of international law represent a compromise between the desire for a
decoration rules of warfare and the need to ensure all the necessary tools
that can lead to victory. The four Geneva Conventions of 1949. the military
need to provide in terms of the principles of humanity. Set rules on military
necessity in the Geneva Conventions give the right correction factor in the
role of the law of armed conflict. The Geneva Conventions there is a degree
of confusion in terminology, where the concept of military necessity
needlessly allocated a number of synonyms. This is because the international
law of armed conflict and emerged as a normative regulation of
proportionality between the military needs) and general principles and humane
principles.
Geopolitics of the horn of Africa
Authors: Radakovic Milovan
Published: July 2012

At the beginning, author provides concretization of terms geopolitics and
conflict and an explanation of geographical term Horn of Africa. In the
following discussion, characterization and classification of the conflict
between African countries is carried out. The work also comprises an analysis
of geopolitical characteristics of the Horn of Africa and provides a brief
synthesis of the countries in the region. Further, it explains the mutual
relations and the nature of the conflict between Ethiopia and Eritrea,
current military presence in the Horn of Africa and the importance of
Bab-el-Mandeb strait. The author analyzes energy connection between Horn of
Africa and the Middle East, regional and interregional impacts on the Horn of
Africa countries and gives concluding remarks.
Chronic kidney disease during a 12-year period at tertiary health institution
Authors: Paripovic Aleksandra , Stajic Natasa , Putnik Jovana , Bogdanovic Radovan
Published: July 2012

Introduction. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a significant cause of
morbidity and mortality in paediatric population. Objective. The aim of the
study was analysis of aetiology, staging and associated complications of CKD
at the time of diagnosis. Methods. Data of 97 patients (56 boys) of average
age 7.8?5.8 years, referred for the first time to the Institute for Mother
and Child Healthcare ?Dr Vukan Cupic?, Belgrade in the period 1998- 2009, due
to CKD, stage 2-5, were analysed. In each patient illness history was
obtained, and physical examination, laboratory, X-ray and other
investigations were performed according to the indications. CKD was
classified according to the glomerular filtration rate into four grades: 2 -
mild (60-90 ml/min/1.73 m2); 3 - moderate (30-60 ml/min/1.73 m2); 4 -
advanced (15-30 ml/ min/1.73 m2); and 5 - terminal (<15 ml/min/1.73 m2).
Results. The most frequent causes of CKD were congenital anomalies of the
kidney and urinary tract (43.3%), followed by glomerular diseases (17.5%),
hereditary kidney diseases (16.5%), metabolic diseases (7.2%) and other
causes (15.5%). Mild CKD was found in 29.8%, moderate in 28.9%, advanced in
22.7%, and terminal in 18.6% children. Among patients with CKD stage 4 and 5,
75% of patients presented with acute renal failure, while 25% had earlier
detected CKD (stage 1), but were not under regular follow-up. Associated
complications included metabolic acidosis (63%), anaemia (60%), hypertension
(42.3%), short stature (25.8%), renal osteodystrophy (13.4%) and
cardiovascular diseases (7.2%). Conclusion. Congenital anomalies of the
kidney and urinary tract are the leading cause of CKD in paediatric
population. A significant proportion (41.3%) of patients had advanced and
terminal CKD. In most patients CKD was diagnosed late and with associated
complications.
Dusan Cotic - tvorac modernog pristupa i programa ujedinjenih nacija za prevenciju kriminala i krivicno pravosudje
Authors: Zvekic Ugljesa
Published: July 2012

nema
From the universal to the particular through intercultural united nations crime prevention law and practice
Authors: Redo Sławomir
Published: July 2012

The article focuses on some legal and criminological counter aspects of the
functionalist approach to public international law, by taking as the example
United Nations crime prevention law. On this basis, the article?s author
analyses the theoretical and practical meaning of cross-disciplinary concepts
of the Universal and the Particular, known also in law and criminology as the
General and the Specific. He emphasizes the coexistence of both concepts and
their mutual reinforcement through the intercultural United Nations policy
and action.
Procedural and legal status of the injured party according to the new criminal procedure code of the Republic of Serbia
Authors: Grubac Momcilo
Published: July 2012

In this article the author is critically analyzing certain solutions of the
new Criminal Procedure Code of the Republic of Serbia from 2011 which
consider the injured party and their rights in the criminal proceeding. He
states that unlike the previous ones, this Code does not improve the status
of the injured party but makes it even worse. The author particularly claims
that the legislator yet again failed to establish the right of the injured
party to be efficiently compensated in the event of a serious offense from a
special fund and immediately after the crime has been committed, but prior to
the end of the criminal proceeding. In the provision of the Code which states
that the injured party may take over the prosecution and become a prosecutor
replacing the Public Prosecutor (subsidiary prosecutor) only if the Public
Prosecutor withdraws after having confirmed the indictment, however not in
the cases of rejection of criminal charges or withdrawal from the prosecution
in the previous proceeding, the author sees not only the limitation of the
rights of the injured party, but also jeopardy of the public interest. This
is due to the fact that, freed from a threat of the subsidiary accusation by
the injured party, the Public Prosecutor has gained an absolute and
uncontrolled monopoly over the initiation of criminal proceeding. According
to the author, the subject of the proceedings will not have any substantial
use from some rights which the new Code assigns to the injured party (for
example the right to appeal against the judgment on the adjudicated property
claim). In conclusion, the author stresses out that in spite of his
objections against certain provisions in the Code, the legal status of the
injured party is more favorable in the criminal law of Serbia then in many
other countries.
Caterus and Descartes on ideas, causality and eternal truths
Authors: Milidrag Predrag
Published: July 2012

The article analyzes the objections of Johannes Caterus, the author of the
Fist objections on Meditations, concerning Descartes? understanding of the
objective reality of ideas, as well as Descartes? First replies. Caterus?
critique rests on late Scholastics understanding of the act of conceiving and
its objective terminus, and subsequent notions esse objectivum and realitas
objectiva. Since they are extrinsic denominations of extramental represented
thing, Caterus concludes that there is no room for the question about their
cause. Despite his late Scholastics background, and without knowing for
Descartes? doctrine about the creation external truths, Caterus realized that
for Descartes the degree of the objective reality of ideas is intrinsic
denomination of the essence of thing, that requires efficient cause and that
is equivalent with the creation of eternal truths. In his response, Descartes
contrasts late Scholastics understanding with his new ?ontology of the
possible? according to which there are intramental essences of things, with
objective being (esse objectivum) which cannot be reduced to extrinsic
denomination (?non nihil?) and which requires actual efficient cause. From
that he concludes that very conceivability and intelligibility of essences
requires efficient cause.
Tractatus and Kant
Authors: Sumonja Milos
Published: July 2012

In this paper I explore the presence of Kant?s heritage in Wittgenstein?s
Tractatus through examination of hypotesis that Tractatus represents form of
critical philosophy after language turn: that Wittgenstein limited language
by restricting it to it?s descriptive use, as Kant limited knowledge by
restricting it to experience.
The why of consciousness, theoretical gap and a double-aspect theory
Authors: Soc Andrija
Published: July 2012

In the first part of this paper I will outline the debate in philosophy of
mind between those who, to borrow from Chalmers (Chalmers 1996) recognize the
existence of the hard problem of consciousness and between those who do not.
I will call the two groups non-reductivists and reductivists, respectively.
The second part will put forward a specific type of criticism against
reductivists - in short that its proponents incorrectly assume the resolution
of another dispute, the one between the so-called pessimistic and optimistic
inductivists. It will be claimed that such an assumption should not be made,
and that until the latter debate is settled, or at least until a specific
solution is offered within the context of the philosophy of mind, we have
every right to be skeptical towards reductivist attempts. In the third part
of the paper I will propose a possible solution which might offer some hope
of finding the middle ground between the two sides.
Once-Weekly Glucose-Lowering Therapy for Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: LaRue Susan , DeYoung Mary Beth , Blickensderfer Amy , Chen Steve
Published: July 2012

IN BRIEF

Exenatide once weekly (QW), a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist, is the first and only glucose-lowering therapy approved for once-weekly administration to patients with type 2 diabetes. In clinical trials, significant reductions in A1C (−1.3 to −1.9%) and weight (−2 to −4 kg) were observed over 6 months with minimal risk of hypoglycemia in the absence of a sulfonylurea. Although the risk of injection-site reactions and mild to moderate gastrointestinal events increased after initiation of exenatide QW, tolerability improved over time. Reductions in A1C and weight were maintained for 3 years in patients who continued to use exenatide QW.
A new piecewise-quasilinearization method for solving chaotic systems of initial value problems
Authors: Motsa Sandile
Published: July 2012

In this paper, a modification of the successive linearization method (SLM) for solving nonlinear initial value problems is introduced for the first time. The proposed method is based on a novel technique of extending the standard SLM and adapting it to a sequence of multiple intervals. In this new application the method is referred to as the piecewise successive linearization method(PSLM). This new algorithm is applied to chaotic and non-chaotic differential equations that model the Lotka-Volterra, Lorenz, Rössler and Genesio-Tesi systems. A comparative study between the new algorithm and the MATLAB Runge-Kutta based in-built solver (ode45) method is presented. The results demonstrate accuracy and reliability of the proposed PSLM algorithm.
Immobilization in biotechnology and biorecognition: from macro- to nanoscale systems
Authors: Bučko Marek , Mislovičová Danica , Nahálka Jozef , Vikartovská Alica , Šefčovičová Jana , Katrlík Jaroslav , Tkáč Ján , Gemeiner Peter , Lacík Igor , Štefuca Vladimír , Polakovič Milan , Rosenberg Michal , Rebroš Martin , Šmogrovičová Daniela , Švitel Juraj
Published: July 2012

Biological molecules such as enzymes, cells, antibodies, lectins, peptide aptamers, and cellular components in an immobilized form are extensively used in biotechnology, in biorecognition and in many medicinal applications. This review provides a comprehensive summary of the developments in new immobilization materials, techniques, and their practical applications previously developed by the authors. A detailed overview of several immobilization materials and technologies is given here, including bead cellulose, encapsulation in ionotropic gels and polyelectrolyte complexes, and various immobilization protocols applied onto surfaces. In addition, the review summarises the screening and design of an immobilization protocol, practical applications of immobilized biocatalysts in the industrial production of metabolites, monitoring, and control of fermentation processes, preparation of electrochemical/optical biosensors and biofuel cells.
Crossing Disciplinary Borders: Perspectives on Learning About Sustainable Development
Authors: Dimenäs Jörgen , Alexandersson Mikael
Published: July 2012

Crossing Disciplinary Borders: Perspectives on Learning About Sustainable Development

With regard to education, traditional environmentally-related issues have been intertwined with courses in natural sciences, which could entail opportunities as well as difficulties. The study concerns two knowledge matters that are usually divided into two different subject traditions - water and justice. In this article, we focus on the way teachers consider instruction within the frameworks of these two discourses and how teaching is related to sustainable development. The findings suggest that water and justice are two examples that are suitable for the problematisation of sustainable development with respect to holistic education. Current educational policies in Sweden advocate a tendency towards a more closed and subject-centred discourse, which means that the ability to successfully teach about sustainable development is made even more problematic.
Pre-Service Teachers' Use of Images in Integrating Environmental Sustainability Lessons
Authors: Muthersbaugh Debbie , Kern Anne
Published: July 2012

Pre-Service Teachers' Use of Images in Integrating Environmental Sustainability Lessons

Environmental sustainability is a topic widely discussed in the field of science education, yet, few entities have committed to developing environmental sustainability education standards. The Washington State Department of Education has created K-12 Integrated Environmental and Sustainability Learning Standards (IESLS, 2009), which align with current research and practices in environmental and sustainability education. This study focuses on the perceptions of secondary pre-service teachers about the use of images to teach environmental sustainability topics integrated in their content area. The research explores the question what secondary pre-service teachers' perceptions of sustainability and using images to teach environmental sustainability topics in their content area are. The participants were comprised of secondary pre-service teachers enrolled in an instructional methodology course from a small university in the Pacific Northwestern United States. Teaching environmental sustainability and integrating lessons using images had a noticeable impact on pre-service teachers' perceived future teaching practices. Participants also changed beliefs over the course of the study about using images to teach environmental sustainability topics.
Aggressiveness of Fusarium langsethiae isolates towards wheat, barley and oats in an in vitro leaf assay
Authors: Opoku Nelson , Back Matthew , Edwards Simon
Published: July 2012

Aggressiveness of Fusarium langsethiae isolates towards wheat, barley and oats in an in vitro leaf assay

Fusarium langsethiae has been identified as the primary producer of HT-2 and T-2 in European cereals. HT-2 and T-2 are considered as two of the most potent trichothecenes mycotoxins and a public health concern in Europe. There is currently no legislation on HT-2 and T-2, however, there is a discussion limit of 500 μg kg-1 in unprocessed oats, 200 μg kg-1 for oat products and 50 μg kg-1 for infant food. There are limited data regarding F. langsethiae's pathogenicity and mycotoxin production, but it is evident that its behaviour deviates from traditional trichothecene-producing Fusarium species. This experiment was aimed at assessing the aggressiveness (measured by lesion length) of 20 different F. langsethiae isolates on wheat, barley and oats using an in vitro detached leaf assay. There was a significant (P<0.001) difference between lesion lengths formed by different F. langsethiae isolates used. Isolate Fl/2004/17(a) caused the shortest lesion on all cereals and this was significantly (P<0.001) different from that caused by isolate Fl/0/08/009/1 which caused the longest lesion on all cereals used. A highly significant difference (P<0.001) was also observed between lesions on the different cereals (wheat, barley and oats). Lesions on oats were the longest, followed by barley with wheat showing the shortest lesions.
The effects of fungicides on Fusarium spp. and their associated mycotoxins in naturally infected winter wheat grain
Authors: Suproniene Skaidre , Mankeviciene Audrone , Gaurilcikiene Irena
Published: July 2012

The effects of fungicides on Fusarium spp. and their associated mycotoxins in naturally infected winter wheat grain

Field trials conducted at the Institute of Agriculture, Lithuanian Research Centre for Agriculture and Forestry (central part of Lithuania) in 2009 were aimed to evaluate the effect of fungicides on Fusarium Head Blight (FHB) in a naturally infected field. A single application of dimoxystrobin + epoxiconazole (Swing Gold), prothioconazole (Proline), metconazole (Juventus), tebuconazole (Folicur), prothioconazole + tebuconazole (Prosaro) was applied to winter wheat cv. ‘Zentos’ at the manufacturer's recommended doses at anthesis (BBCH 65). The FHB incidence and severity were assessed at milk and hard maturity stages. The percentage of Fusarium infected grain and deoxynivalenol (DON), zearalenone (ZEN) and T-2 toxin (T-2) concentrations in harvested grain were determined. In all fungicide treated plots a significant reduction of FHB incidence and severity was determined; however the fungicides did not exert any effect on the amount of Fusarium-infected grain as compared with the untreated control. A reduction of DON, ZEN and T-2 contents in grain was determined in tebuconazole treatments. Fusarium avenaceum (Fr.) Sacc, F. culmorum (W. G. Sm.) Sacc., F. poae (Peck) Wollenw, F. sporotrichioides Sherb. and F. tricinctum (Corda) Sacc were identified in wheat grain, F. poae was prevalent.
The Reliability and Accuracy of Knee Implants Sizing Predicted by Digital Templating
Authors: Zadorožnijs Sergejs , Kalnberzs Konstantins
Published: July 2012

Introduction. Osteoarthritis of the knee is a common and frequently symptomatic illness. Total knee replacement (TKR) has evolved as an accepted, cost-effective and efficacious treatment modality for osteoarthritis and other forms of arthritic conditions of the knee joint. Preoperative planning is an important part of the surgical procedure. The inability to accurately determine the magnification factor of the radiograph is one of the major problems in analog preoperative planning of TKR. With the use of calibration objects, the digital images can be corrected for the magnification factor.

Aim of the Study. We aimed to determine the reliability and accuracy of digital templating in the pre-operative work-up for TKR.

Materials and Methods. A retrospective study was done in 105 caucasian adults, who had osteoarthritis of the knee. Digital templating was performed using a calibrating 25-mm metallic ball and Agfa Orthopaedic Tools digital software package by a surgeon not involved with the operation, who was blinded to the size of the implant inserted. The Press Fit Condylar Sigma Knee system was used in all the patients. Digital anteroposterior and lateral radiographs of the knee were used in measuring the implant size. The results from digital images were compared with the size of actual femoral and tibial implants used at the time of surgery.

Results. The correct size of the implant was predicted in 73 of 105 (69,5%) of the femoral and 70 of 105 (66,7%) of the tibial components. The correct size of the whole system was predicted in 58 of 105 (55,2%) cases. The digital preoperative planning predicted 104 of 105 (99,0%) femoral and tibial implants and 103 of 105 (98,1%) whole systems to within one size.

Conclusions. We conclude that digital templating using a calibrating 25-mm metallic ball and Agfa Orthopaedic Tools digital software is a reliable method of predicting the implant to within one size.
Reaction of Subcutaneous Connective Tissue of Experimental Animals on Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stromal Cell Coated Hydroxyapatite
Authors: Zavorins Aleksejs , Pilmane Mara , Salms Girts , Skagers Andrejs , Cakstina Inese , Locs Janis
Published: July 2012

Introduction. Hydroxyapatite (HAp) scaffolds have become an alternative to autologous bone grafts in orthopedic surgery, because it is possible to fill larger scale bone defects and of the decreased operation time and complication risks at the graft donor site, a promising method in bone regeneration is to load bone marrow - mesenchymal stromal cells (BM-MSCs) on to a HAp scaffold.

Aim of the Study. The aim of our study is to compare subcutaneous tissue reaction of experimental animals to implantation of HAp and HAp that is coated with BM-MSCs.

Materials and Methods. Autologous BM-MSCs were cultivated from crista iliaca dextra biopsy, 4 HAp ceramic implants were coated with BM-MSC and implanted in subcutaneous tissue on one side and non-coated HAp implants on the other side of the spine of 4 rabbits. Immunohistochemical staining of BM-MSC and connective tissue included TUNEL assay, NFkBp105, HSP 70k, Wnt1, TNF-α, VEGF, MMP-2 antibodies, microscoped at 400X magnification and analyzed semiquantitatively.

Results. Routine staining with haemotoxilin and eosin demonstrated formation of granulation tissue around the HAp implant, which was more distinct on the control side. There was an increased number of NFκB p105 positive cells (fibroblasts, myocytes, endotheliocytes) on the experimental side (+++), in comparison to the control side (++). HSP70 and apoptosis index was decreased on the experimental side (++ and 60%), in comparison to the control side (+++ and 70%). Number of MMP2 positive structures was increased on the control side in the fibrous capsule (++), in comparison to the experimental side, where the result varied (0 - +)

Conclusions. Cultured BM-MSC activity is partly limited due to the apoptosis, which is probably induced by environmental factors. BM-MSC coated HAp implant stimulates secretion of proliferation marker NFkBp105 in subcutaneous tissue, decreases cell stress, apoptosis and tissue degradation (decreased HSP 70, apoptotic cell count and MMP 2) to improve the local tissue quality and proving BM-MSC tissue protective effect
Pulsed Radiofrequency Effects on the Lumbar Dorsal Root Ganglion of the Domestic Porcine: Pilot Study
Authors: Arons Mihails , Pilmane Mara , Vasilevskis Edgars , Evansa Irina , Panihins Igors , Maloshik Dmitry
Published: July 2012

Introduction.Pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) is a percutaneous minimal invasive procedure for chronic pain management that can be used when conservative treatment methods have been ineffective. The effectiveness of PRF was demonstrated in various good quality randomized control studies, but mechanisms of action are still unclear.

Aim of the Study.The aim of our study is to analyse the histological effects of PRF on the domestic porcine dorsal root ganglion (DRG), and evaluate the expression of biomarkers in gangliocytes of the subject(s).

Materials and Methods.A total 3 domestic porcines were investigated. Under general anaesthesia and X-ray control, DRG PRF was performed. Four lumbar DRGs (L1, L2, L3, L4) were randomly treated. The opposite side DRGs was used as control. One month after the procedure the animal was euthanized. The lumbar region of the spine was placed in 10% formaldehyde for a month. After this fixation DRG samples were prepared for slide analysis. They were embedded in paraffin in order to obtain 3mm thick sections, which were then cut by microtome and collected on slide glasses. Using standard immunohistochemical reactions, the materials were tinted to define biomarkers neurofilaments (NF), glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), heat shock protein - 70 (Hsp-70) expression and apoptosis by transferase-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL) analysis.

Results.The number of cells with NF (26,0 ± 3,0 vs 16,1 ± 3,3; p<0,05), GFAP (12,0 ± 1,3 vs 3,2 ± 0,9; p<0,05) and Hsp-70 (10,0 ± 1,6 vs 4,2 ± 1,0; p<0,05) expression, were larger in the PRF side comparing with the control side. Additionally, glial cells in spinal ganglia of both sides demonstrated immunoreactivity. The instances of apoptosis were not significantly different, in statistical terms, between the control and experimental sides (18,0 ± 4,0 vs 20,0 ± 4,0; p=0,35).

Conclusions.PRF in spinal gangliocytes of lumbar region increases neural tissue cytoskeleton factors like NF and GFAP suggesting about active regeneration processes into the cells 1 month after the procedure. Spinal gangliocytes one month after PRF treatment notably increases Hsp-70 expression suggesting about activation of cellular activity and inhibitory role reducing of oxidative stress. Similar number of apoptotic cells in spinal ganglia of lumbar region after PRF and control side suggests about inhibitory role of PRF on programmed cell death and stimulation of cell survival.
Management of Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma of Distal Trachea
Authors: Silins Ints , Spaks Artjoms , Apsvalks Maris , Lejnieks Juris Peteris , Saba Ingrida
Published: July 2012

Tracheal neoplasms occur infrequently, the majority of primary tracheal tumours in adults are malignant, and in 40% of cases it is adenoid cystic carcinoma, which can be asymptomatic for a long period of time. Surgical treatment can be justified even in advanced disease, because progression of tracheal tumour usually causes obstruction of airways. Improved long-term outcome seems to follow combined surgical resection and full-dose radiotherapy. Patients after resection of adenoid cystic carcinoma need careful and long-term observations to detect a relapse