bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Correlation between Genetic Variations and Serum Level of Interleukin 28B with Virus Genotypes and Disease Progression in Chronic Hepatitis C Virus Infection
Authors: Al-Qahtani Ahmed , Al-Anazi Mashael , Abdo Ayman A. , Sanai Faisal M. , Al-Hamoudi Waleed , Alswat Khalid A. , Al-Ashgar Hamad I. , Khan Mohammed Q. , Albenmousa Ali , Khalaf Nisreen , Viswan Nisha , Al-Ahdal Mohammed N.
Published: February 2015

Recent studies have demonstrated that polymorphisms near the interleukin-28B (IL-28B) gene could predict the response to Peg-IFN-a/RBV combination therapy in HCV-infected patients. The aim of the study was to correlate the serum level of IL28B in HCV-infected patients with virus genotype/subgenotype and disease progression. IL28B serum level was detected and variations at five single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in IL28B gene region were genotyped and analyzed. The variation of IL28B genetic polymorphisms was found to be strongly associated with HCV infection when healthy control group was compared to HCV-infected patients with allPvalues <0.0001. Functional analysis revealed that subjects carrying rs8099917-GG genotype had higher serum level of IL28B than those with GT or TT genotypes(P=0.04). Also, patients who were presented with cirrhosis (Cirr) only or with cirrhosis plus hepatocellular carcinoma (Cirr+HCC) had higher levels of serum IL28B when compared to chronic HCV-infected patients (P=0.005and 0.003, resp.). No significant association was found when serum levels of IL28B were compared to virus genotypes/subgenotypes. This study indicates that variation at SNP rs8099917 could predict the serum levels of IL28B in HCV-infected patients. Furthermore, IL28B serum level may serve as a useful marker for the development of HCV-associated sequelae.
Coenzyme Q10,α-Tocopherol, and Oxidative Stress Could Be Important Metabolic Biomarkers of Male Infertility
Authors: Gvozdjáková Anna , Kucharská Jarmila , Dubravicky Jozef , Mojto Viliam , Singh Ram B.
Published: February 2015

Oxidative stress, decreased antioxidant capacity, and impaired sperm mitochondrial function are the main factors contributing to male infertility. The goal of the present study was to assess the effect of the per os treatment with Carni-Q-Nol (440 mg L-carnitine fumarate + 30 mg ubiquinol + 75 IU vitamin E + 12 mg vitamin C in each softsule) in infertile men on sperm parameters, concentration of antioxidants (coenzymeQ10,  CoQ10-TOTAL,γ, andα-tocopherols), and oxidative stress in blood plasma and seminal fluid. Forty infertile men were supplemented daily with two or three Carni-Q-Nol softsules. After 3 and 6 months of treatment, improved sperm density was observed (by 48.9% and 80.9%, resp.) and after 3-month treatment the sperm pathology decreased by 25.8%. Concentrations ofCoQ10-TOTAL(ubiquinone + ubiquinol) andα-tocopherol were significantly increased and the oxidative stress was decreased. In conclusion, the effect of supplementary therapy with Carni-Q-Nol showed benefits on sperm function in men, resulting in 45% pregnancies of their women. We assume that assessment of oxidative stress,CoQ10-TOTAL, andα-tocopherol in blood plasma and seminal fluid could be important metabolic biomarkers in both diagnosis and treatment of male infertility.
Dynamic Characteristics of Electrostatically Actuated Shape Optimized Variable Geometry Microbeam
Authors: Zhang Sha , Zhang Wen-Ming , Peng Zhi-Ke , Meng Guang
Published: February 2015

We mainly analyze the dynamic characteristics of electrostatically actuated shape optimized variable geometry microbeam. A nonlinear dynamic model considering midplane stretching, electrostatic force, and electrical field fringing effects is developed. Firstly, we study the static responses of the optimized microbeams under DC polarization voltage. The generalized differential quadrature method (GDQM) is used. Secondly, the dynamic responses of the shape optimized microbeams driven by DC and AC voltages are investigated using GDQM in conjunction with Levenberg-Marquardt optimization method. The results show that the more gradual change in width, the larger the resonant frequency and the maximum amplitude at resonance. Then we further discuss in detail how do the maximum width, midsection width, and curvature of the width function affect the frequency response of the microbeams. We find that the amplitude and resonant frequency of the dynamic response are not monotonically increasing as the curvature of the width function increases and there exists a critical curvature. This analysis will be helpful in the optimal design of MEMS actuators. Finally, for more consideration, different residual stress, squeeze-film damping, and fringing effect models are introduced into the governing equation of motion and we compare the corresponding dynamic response.
Dab2IP Regulates Neuronal Positioning, Rap1 Activity and Integrin Signaling in the Developing Cortex
Authors: Qiao Shuhong , Homayouni Ramin
Published: February 2015

Dab2IP (DOC-2/DAB2 interacting protein) is a GTPase-activating protein which is involved in various aspects of brain development in addition to its roles in tumor formation and apoptosis in other systems. In this study, we carefully examined the expression profile of Dab2IP and investigated its physiological role during brain development using a Dab2IP-knockdown (KD) mouse model created by retroviral insertion of a LacZ-encoding gene-trapping cassette. LacZ staining revealed that Dab2IP is expressed in the ventricular zone as well as the cortical plate and the intermediate zone. Immunohistochemical analysis showed that Dab2IP protein is localized in the leading process and proximal cytoplasmic regions of migrating neurons in the intermediate zone. Bromodeoxyuridine birth dating experiments in combination with immunohistochemical analysis using layer-specific markers showed that Dab2IP is important for proper positioning of a subset of layer II-IV neurons in the developing cortex. Notably, neuronal migration was not completely disrupted in the cerebral cortex of Dab2IP-KD mice and disruption of migration was not strictly layer specific. Previously, we found that Dab2IP regulates multipolar transition in cortical neurons. Others have shown that Rap1 regulates the transition from multipolar to bipolar morphology in migrating postmitotic neurons through N-cadherin signaling and somal translocation in the superficial layer of the cortical plate through integrin signaling. Therefore, we examined whether Rap1 and integrin signaling were affected in Dab2IP-KD brains. We found that Dab2IP-KD resulted in higher levels of activated Rap1 and integrin in the developing cortex. Taken together, our results suggest that Dab2IP plays an important role in the migration and positioning of a subpopulation of later-born (layers II-IV) neurons, likely through the regulation of Rap1 and integrin signaling.
A Country That Does Not Exist
Authors: Largo Marissa
Published: February 2015

This paper examines the 2013 exhibition Through the Looking Glass: Inside My Domestic Portrait of Filipino Canadian artist Julius Poncelet Manapul. I ask in this case study: What are the ways in which Filipino Canadian artists mobilize art in response to their invisibility in Canadian society? Adopting a contextual analysis, I interpret Manapul’s artwork, my interview with the artist, and his writings and place them in conversation with discourses of contemporary art, visual culture, and cultural studies.

I argue Manapul’s hybrid art practice represents an emerging queer decolonial aesthetic that challenges Western heteronormative standards of family, home, identity, and citizenship consequently creating a utopic, third space of potentiality. Through physical, symbolic, and virtual interventions, Manapul provides an alternative vision of postcolonial subjectivity, which defies essentialist readings of ethnic identity prevalent in Canada’s neoliberal multicultural discourse. I discuss the implications of Manapul’s queer decolonial aesthetic in relation to multiculturalism in Canada and its generative possibilities for contemporary queer theory.
Islands of Clay
Authors: Philip Leila
Published: February 2015

Toshiko Takaezu (1922–2011) was an important postwar Asian-American artist from Hawai‘i. My exploration of Takaezu’s work is closely informed by scholarship on hybridity and performative identity, which examines artists with hyphenated identities that bridge multiple personal and cultural formations. Takaezu has occupied an ambiguous and fluid space between cultures, artistic traditions, and assigned gender roles as Asian and American, as potter and sculptor, and as a woman who paid deference to traditional Japanese female culture but was also a pioneer artist who consistently identified with male forms of power. The essential paradoxes of Takaezu’s life and her struggle to find ways to create and perform her ethnicity without becoming trapped within it make her a fascinating case study. Her work reflects the implications of transnational flows and circulations; her clay works speaks to a heritage of migration, dispersal and the need to recapture a sense of lost homeland.
A contribution to Centaurea sect. Phaeopappa (Asteraceae, Cardueae) in Iran
Authors: Ranjbar Massoud , Heydari Razayeh
Published: February 2015

Centaurea ardabilica and C. tabriziana, two new species endemic to NW Iran, are described and illustrated. Both new species belong to C. sect. Phaeopappa. Centaurea ardabilica is closely related to C. daralagoezica and is distinguished by having median and upper cauline leaves decurrent, peduncle up to 20 mm long and median and upper cauline leaves often lyrate, and involucres smaller; C. tabriziana is distinguished from C. phaeopappa by having median cauline leaves decurrent, segments of basal cauline leaves in 6–20 pairs, phyllaries with a median appendage 15–22 mm long and a spine up to 10 mm long. An updated key to the species of C. sect. Phaeopappa in Iran is provided.
Habenaria fimbriatiloba (Orchidaceae), a new orchid species from China
Authors: Kolanowska Marta
Published: February 2015

Since it was published, Habenaria Willdenow (1805: 5) has become one of the largest and the most widespread genera of Orchidaceae. The estimated number of species included in the genus is over 800 (Govaerts et al. 2010), but novelties are published frequently (eg. Batista et al. 2012, Karthigeyan et al. 2014, Murugan et al. 2014). The highest specific diversity of Habenaria is observed in Brazil, southern and central Africa and East Asia (Kurzweil & Weber 1992), but species are found in most tropical and subtropical regions.
Wheat rusts never sleep but neither do sequencers: will pathogenomics transform the way plant diseases are managed?
Authors: Derevnina Lida , Michelmore Richard W
Published: February 2015

Field pathogenomics adds highly informative data to surveillance surveys by enabling rapid evaluation of pathogen variability, population structure and host genotype.
Does sex influence the incidence or severity of reperfusion-induced cardiac arrhythmias?
Authors: Dow Joan S , Bhandari Anil , Hale Sharon L , Kloner Robert A
Published: February 2015

Whether sex affects the acute phase of myocardial ischemia in experimental animal models is currently being debated. Our purpose was to determine if sex influences either the incidence or severity of reperfusion-induced arrhythmias resulting from a brief coronary occlusion. Male and female Sprague–Dawley rats were assigned to the study. Anesthetized animals were subjected to a 5-minute coronary artery occlusion followed by 5 minutes of reperfusion. Mortality differed by sex: 10/27 (37%) of males died due to VT/VF while only 1/16 females (6%) died due to VT/VF (p = 0.033). Quantitative analysis of the electrocardiogram was performed on data acquired from 17 male and 15 female survivors. Analysis showed no other significant differences in ventricular arrhythmias between the two groups. Conclusion: Lethal reperfusion-induced arrhythmias led to a higher mortality in male rats versus female rats. Among survivors there was no difference in any other arrhythmic parameters measured.
EMT and tumor metastasis
Authors: Heerboth Sarah , Housman Genevieve , Leary Meghan , Longacre Mckenna , Byler Shannon , Lapinska Karolina , Willbanks Amber , Sarkar Sibaji
Published: February 2015

EMT and MET comprise the processes by which cells transit between epithelial and mesenchymal states, and they play integral roles in both normal development and cancer metastasis. This article reviews these processes and the molecular pathways that contribute to them. First, we compare embryogenesis and development with cancer metastasis. We then discuss the signaling pathways and the differential expression and down‐regulation of receptors in both tumor cells and stromal cells, which play a role in EMT and metastasis. We further delve into the clinical implications of EMT and MET in several types of tumors, and lastly, we discuss the role of epigenetic events that regulate EMT/MET processes. We hypothesize that reversible epigenetic events regulate both EMT and MET, and thus, also regulate the development of different types of metastatic cancers.
Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization, Nanostructure-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization and Carbon Nanohorns in the Detection of Antineoplastic Drugs. 1. The Cases of Irinotecan, Sunitinib and 6-Alpha-Hydroxy Paclitaxel
Authors: Calandra Eleonora , Crotti Sara , Agostini Marco , Nitti Donato , Roverso Marco , Toffoli Giuseppe , Marangon Elena , Posocco Bianca , Traldi Pietro
Published: February 2015

The development of surface-assisted laser desorption/ionization (SALDI) methodologies in mass spectrometry allows, in principle, the development of new analytical approaches to qualitative and quantitative measurements on small molecules. Some of these methods have been applied to characterize two antineoplastic drugs: irinotecan (1) and sunitinib (2), and also 6- α-hydroxy-paclitaxel (3), the main metabolite of paclitaxel. Three different SALDI approaches have been tested employing nanostructure-assisted laser desorption/ionization (NALDI), carbon nanohorns (NHs) and carbon NHs covered by liquid additives. The results so obtained have been compared to those observed under matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) conditions. Compounds 1 and 2 show the easy formation of protonated molecular species under all the experimental conditions, but the highest absolute intensity was achieved by NALDI. On the contrary, ionic species of low intensity are present for 3, among which are those that exhibit the highest intensity caused by [M + K]+ ions. After a critical evaluation of the obtained data, the linear response of the [M + H]+ ion intensity of 1 versus different deposited sample amounts was investigated, and the best results ( R2 = 0.9889) were obtained under MALDI conditions. The analysis of plasma samples spiked with 1 showed, again, that the MALDI approach was the best one ( R2 = 0.9766). The failure of NALDI measurements could be rationalized by the presence of ion-suppression effects.
Using environment modification and doll therapy in dementia
Authors: Hahn Sue
Published: February 2015

Given the rise in the global number of people with dementia, the need for interventions to reduce the behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) is ever present. This paper explores the evidence for the effectiveness of two non-pharmacological approaches; doll therapy and environment modification, to reduce behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia. The evidence base is relatively weak owing to the small number of studies on this topic and the lack of rigor of the methodologies used. Despite this, the outcome from the studies reviewed generally supports the use of both interventions for reducing BPSD in people with dementia.
Living with advanced-stage Huntington's disease: an exploration of the experiences of Maltese family caregivers
Authors: Scerri Rosanne
Published: February 2015

Aim:

The aims of this study were to explore the experiences of Maltese family caregivers (FCs) caring for individuals with advanced-stage Huntington's disease (HD) and to integrate findings using grounded theory principles.

Method:

Data collection and analysis were based on grounded theory principles. Eight in-depth semi-structured interviews were carried out with carers of individuals who were living at home or in an institution. The software programme MAXQDA was used to assist with analysis.

Results:

The results of this study indicate that the experiences of HD FCs centred around the psychological impact of their caregiving experience. The interrelationship between the different categories and sub-categories is suggested using an integrative diagram.

Conclusions:

This study can be considered as a robust pilot study which has integrated different aspects of the caregiver's experiences. Practical and policy implications centre on the need to develop measures to support FCs. Future research aimed at developing a theoretical framework is warranted.
Multiple sclerosis and disease modifying therapies: results of two UK surveys on factors influencing choice
Authors: Colhoun Samantha , Wilkinson Carmel , Izat Alan , White Sarah , Pull Emily , Roberts Megan
Published: February 2015

Background:

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a disease of the central nervous system. There is no cure for MS but there are treatments available which reduce the severity, frequency and duration of relapses, known as disease modifying therapies (DMTs).

Aim:

The objective of the study was to gain insight into the factors influencing choice of DMT when starting or switching therapy.

Methodology:

Two separate surveys of MS nurses and people with MS taking a DMT were designed by a group of MS nurses; they were funded and supported by Novartis Pharmaceuticals UK Ltd and implemented in 2014.

Results:

Patients clearly stated that while highly valuing their MS nurse and neurologist, they wanted more clarity around the effectiveness, side effects and risks of DMTs. Some 84% of patients wanted to be part of the decision-making process regarding their treatment.

Conclusion:

Shared decision making underpins effective disease management and is particularly important in relation to DMT prescribing. The importance of the MS nurse role in providing patients with individually tailored information is supported by the results of this survey.
Bed care for patients in palliative settings: considering risks to caregivers and bed surfaces
Authors: Fragala Guy
Published: February 2015

Ensuring patients are comfortable in bed is key to effective palliative care, but when moving and positioning patients in bed, health professionals face an occupational risk of injury. The turning and positioning (TAP) system is a new method of moving patients in bed, that evidence has shown to reduce the risk of injury to caregivers. Providing the correct bed surface is another aspect of bed care essential to the comfort of the palliative patient, and to aid wound prevention and treatment. It is important to take a patient-centred approach when considering the most appropriate bed surface patients. This article provides an overview and discussion of these two aspects of bed care for palliative patients.
Perinatal death: bereavement interventions used by US and Spanish nurses and midwives
Authors: Steen Sue E
Published: February 2015

Background:

Little research has been published from a global perspective regarding needs of nurses and midwives related to perinatal bereavement.

Objective:

To identify needs and concerns of US and Spanish nurses and midwives who have worked with perinatal death and to identify the bereavement interventions they use to help families with this experience.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study was conducted. Data were collected in 2011 from US (n=44) and Spanish (n=15) nurses and midwives via a questionnaire.

Results:

Statistically significant differences between the nurses/midwives in each country were found regarding needs relating to knowledge, communication skills and managing personal feelings. Interventions of accompanying, listening, offering keepsakes, baptism discussion, and funeral planning were also found to be significantly different between the two groups.

Conclusions:

These findings demonstrate a continued need to increase the standard and consistency of perinatal bereavement care worldwide. Bereavement education in nursing curricula and practice settings in both cultures is essential to increase the standard of care.
Optimum Utilization of Regional Anaesthesia for Eye Surgery in Children
Authors: Shah Mehul A. , Shah Shreya M. , Kalyani Janak D. , Pandya Jaimini S. , Patel Nirav L.
Published: February 2015

Objective: To study effectiveness of innovative method of anaesthesia for eye surgeries in paediatric age group. 
Methods: This is a retrospective study. We retrieved data from Medical Record Department for all children (0 to 18) who had undergone ocular surgeries between January 2008 to December 2013 at tertiary eye care centre. Sedation along with regional anaesthesia (topical or peribulbar block) or general anaesthesia was the preferred mode of anaesthesia under which cataract, strabismus, lacrimal, ocular trauma and retinal surgeries were performed. All surgeries, methods, medicines and complications of anaesthesia were properly documented. 
Results: In all, 1941 cases were operated. Among them 1084 were males and 857 were females; 520 were cataract surgeries, 723 were strabismus surgeries, 285 were lacrimal surgeries, 185 were ocular trauma and 228 were retinal surgeries. Median age of patients was 8+/-4.8 (0 to 17). All surgeries were eventless and no serious perioperative complication was encountered. 
Conclusion: Combination of sedation and regional anaesthesia is a good cost effective method for ocular anaesthesia in children for eye surgeries.
Impact of Exposure to Potentially Traumatic Events on Individuals With Intellectual Disability
Authors: Berger Rony , Gelkopf Marc , Versano-Mor Kerem , Shpigelman Carmit-Noa
Published: February 2015

This study explored the prevalence of posttraumatic symptomatology (PTS) and functional problems among Israeli individuals with intellectual disability (ID) who live in supported residential care settings and who have been exposed to political violence. The sample included 196 residents exposed to chronic missile attacks and 91 residents with ID who were not exposed. Results showed PTS and functional problems to be higher in the exposed group compared to the nonexposed one, although still low compared to the general exposed population. Exposure was found to be related to PTS and functioning problems suggested individuals with ID are reactive to political violence, though the underlying mechanisms are not clear. Implications for research, caretakers, and policy are discussed.
The soul gets typecast: The reincarnation film in popular Hindi cinema
Authors: Wright Neelam Sidhar
Published: February 2015

This article introduces the reincarnation film as an (unacknowledged) Indian film genre. After a brief historical overview of the reincarnation film, the genre’s conventions are explored through an analysis of select films – particularly Neel Kamal (1968) by Ram Maheshwari and Om Shanti Om (2007) by Farah Khan. Rather than applying a psychoanalytical approach (which would suggests that these films are primarily concerned with sexual trauma and surfacing repressed desires), I observe how reincarnation philosophy informs the style and form of these texts to address Hindu anxieties about rebirth. Reincarnation narratives are not simply a by-product of the western Gothic, but informed by and best understood in relation to ancient Indic cultural practices. Furthermore, Hindu cultural consciousness conflicts with key psychoanalytical concepts of death and the past. This research addresses the cultural specificity of film genre. It demonstrates how religious philosophy can be used to investigate film aesthetics as an alternative to the common-practice application of western psychoanalysis.
Report
Authors: Mitchell Louisa
Published: February 2015

Report on the 27th Leeds International Film Festival, 6–21 November 2013
Reviews
Authors: Bhatia Sidharth , Cleminson Richard , Hart Patricia , Holdaway Dom
Published: February 2015

World Film Locations: Mumbai, Helio San Miguel (ed.) (2012), Bristol: Intellect Books, 128 pp., ISBN: 9781841506326, p/bk, £14.99

Placeres ocultos: Gays y lesbianas en el cine español de la transición/‘Gays and Lesbians in Spanish Cinema during the Transition’, Alejandro Melero Salvador (2010), Madrid: Notorious Ediciones, 278 pp., ISBN: 9788493714888, €18.95

The Sound Studies Reader, Jonathan Sterne (ed.) (2012), Abingdon, Oxon: Routledge, 566 pp., ISBN: 9780415771306, h/bk, $130; ISBN: 9780415771313, p/bk, $45.95

The New Neapolitan Cinema, Alex Marlow-Mann (2011), Edinburgh: Edinburgh University Press, 256 pp., ISBN: 9780748668779, p/bk, £22.99; ISBN: 9780748640669, h/bk, £65.00
A Real Human Being and a Real Hero: Stylistic excess, dead time and intensified continuity in Nicolas Winding Refn’s Drive
Authors: Rogers Anna Backman , Kiss Miklós
Published: February 2015

This article sets forth that Nicolas Winding Refn’s Drive (2011) exhibits a ‘complex transformation’ of an American film genre by foregrounding features associated with art cinema and, more specifically, European and auteur film-making. We argue that the film’s appeal derives precisely from an intelligent and cine-literate deployment of the tensions in this dichotomy of European/American film-making. As such, Drive is a film that foregrounds or reveals its own construction in a number of ways, but its appeal lies in the fact that it does not prevent intense emotional engagement on the part of the viewer. It is neither a cold exercise in mere style nor a simple copy of an earlier formula, but rather a film that manages to marry a number of narrative and stylistic features in such a way that the film itself, arguably, is not easy to categorize.
Game over? The (re)play of horror in Michael Haneke’s Funny Games U.S.
Authors: Messier Vartan
Published: February 2015

Michael Haneke’s Funny Games U.S. (2007) is a meticulously faithful American remake of his European horror film of the same name, Funny Games (1997), which depicts the plight of a bourgeois family terrorized by two young men at their lakeside property. The purpose of this paper is twofold. First, it demonstrates how the film’s aesthetics of terror produces affective responses that undermine the characteristic emphasis on cathartic violence of the horror genre. Second, it addresses how the remake’s fidelity to the original prompts us to consider the transnational properties of representational violence. Retracing the psychoanalytic underpinnings of the ‘family in peril’ sub-genre of horror cinema, I first argue that Funny Games U.S. unsettles the viewer’s expectations by simultaneously exploiting and subverting generic conventions. Rather than resorting to spectacles of blood and gore, the film utilizes the affective potentialities of duration and self-reflexivity to rattle the audience and critique the viewing pleasure associated with representational violence. Next, I examine cinematic remakes as indicators of cultural variation, arguing that the minute differences of setting and characters between the original and the remake only aim to reinforce their similarities. In thus rendering the viewing experience almost identical, as mirroring and serial works, the films recast our understanding of the cultural specificity of spectatorship.
High-Speed Photo-Polarimetry of Magnetic Cataclysmic Variables
Authors: Potter S. B.
Published: February 2015

I review recent highlights of the SAAO High-speed Photo-POlarimeter (HIPPO) on the study of magnetic Cataclysmic Variables. Its high-speed capabilities are demonstrated with example observations made of the intermediate polar NY Lup and the polar IGRJ14536-5522.
Evolution and Outbursts of Cataclysmic Variables
Authors: Qian S.-B. , Zhu L.-Y. , Zhao E.-G. , Fernández Lajús E. , Zhang J. , Shi G. , Han Z.-T.
Published: February 2015

Mass transfer and accretion are very important to understand the evolution and observational properties of cataclysmic variables (CVs). Due to the lack of an accretion disk, eclipsing profiles of polars are the best source to study the character of mass transfer in CVs. By analyzing long-term photometric variations in the eclipsing polar HU Aqr, the property of mass transfer and accretion are investigated. The correlation between the brightness state change and the variation of the ingress profile suggests that both the accretion hot spot and the accretion stream are produced instantaneously. The observations clearly show that it is the variation of mass transfer causing the brightness state changes that is a direct evidence of variable mass transfer in a CV. It is shown that it is the local dark-spot activity near the L1 point to cause the change of the mass transfer rather than the activity cycles of the cool secondary star. Our results suggest that the evolution of CVs is more complex than that predicted by the standard model and we should consider the effect of variable mass accretion in nova and dwarf nova outbursts.
The Nova V5584 Sgr: A Short Review
Authors: Poggiani R.
Published: February 2015

The nova V5584 Sgr was discovered during 2009 October. It has been monitored in different domains of the electromagnetic spectrum: optical, infrared and X-rays. The optical and infrared observations suggest that V5584 Sgr is a Fe II nova that formed dust. No X-ray emission was observed around the time of maximum.
Non Relational Models for the Management of Large Amount of Astronomical Data
Authors: Martino B. L. , Federici M.
Published: February 2015

The objective of this paper is the comparison between two different database typologies: the relational and the nonrelational architecture, in the context of the applications related to the use and distribution of astronomical data. The specific context is focused to problems quite different from those related to administrative and managerial environments within which were developed the leading technologies on which are based the modern systems of massive storage of data. The data provided by astronomical instrumentation are usually filtered out by the front-end system (trigger, anticoincidence, DSP etc.), so they do not require special controls of congruence. Moreover, the related storage systems must be able to ensure an easy growth, minimizing human systemistic interventions and automating the related actions. The use of a non-relational architecture (NoSQL), offers great advantages during the insertion of informations within a data base, while the response speed of the queries is mainly tied to their type and complexity.
GLORIA and Study of Cataclysmic Variables
Authors: Hudec R. , Šimon V.
Published: February 2015

We report here on the ongoing EU FP7 Project GLORIA (GLObal Robotic-telescopes Intelligent Array) with emphasis on possibility of investigation of cataclysmic variables by users. GLORIA will enable the first free and open-access network of robotic telescopes in the world. We show several examples of the not often used topics (but suitable for GLORIA) for the studies of activity of cataclysmic variables, e.g. search for outbursts in intermediate polars and the fluctuations of brightness in their quiescence, and investigation of the optical counterparts of supersoft X-ray sources.
Concluding Remarks
Authors: Bisikalo D. V.
Published: February 2015

Concluding Remarks
A quantitative model of technological catch-up
Authors: Gholizadeh Hossein , Bonyadi Naeini Ali , Moini Alireza
Published: February 2015

This article presents a quantitative model for the analysis of technological gap. The rates of development of technological leaders and followers in nanotechnology are expressed in terms of coupled equations. On the basis of this model (first step) comparative technological gap and rate of that will be studied. We can calculate the dynamics of the gap between leader and follower. In the Second step, we estimate the technology gap using the metafrontier approach. Then we test the relationship between the technology gap and the quality of dimensions of the Catch-up technology which were identified in previous step. The usefulness of this approach is then demonstrated in the analysis of the technological gap of nanotechnology in Iran, the leader in Middle East and the world. We shall present the behaviors of the technological leader and followers. At the end, analyzing Iran position will be identified and implying effective dimension of catch-up Suggestions will be offered which could be a fundamental for long-term policies of Iran.
Crystal structure of 4-bromo-4’-methoxy-biphenyl, at 200 K, C13H11BrO
Authors: Hosten Eric C. , Betz Richard
Published: February 2015

C13H11BrO, orthorhombic, Pca21 (no. 29), a = 6.0941(6) Å, b = 7.3417(7) Å, c = 24.394(2) Å, V = 1091.4 Å3, Z = 4, Rgt(F) = 0.0472, wRref(F2) = 0.1175, T = 200 K.
Crystal structure of pentastrontium bis(dinitridocobaltate(I)), Sr5[CoN2]2, Co2N4Sr5
Authors: Ovchinnikov Alexander , Höhn Peter , Borrmann Horst , Kazancioğlu Monika , Kniep Rüdiger
Published: February 2015

Co2N4Sr5, tetragonal, P4/ncc (no. 130), a = 8.6730(5) Å, c = 12.443(1) Å, V = 936.0 Å3, Z = 4, Rgt(F) = 0.0293, wRref(F2) = 0.0684, T = 295 K.
Effect of V/III ratio on the growth of hexagonal boron nitride by MOCVD
Authors: Paduano Qing S. , Snure Michael , Shoaf Jodie
Published: February 2015

In this report, we describe a process for achieving atomically smooth, few-layer thick, hexagonal boron nitride (h-BN) films on sapphire substrates by MOCVD, using Triethylboron (TEB) and NH3 as precursors. Two different growth modes have been observed depending on the V/III ratio. Three-dimensional (3D) island growth is dominant in the low V/III range; in this range growth rate decreases with increasing deposition temperature. This island growth mode transitions to a self-terminating growth mode when V/III > 2000, over the entire deposition temperature range studied (i.e. 1000-1080oC). Raman spectroscopy verifies the h-BN phase of these films, and atomic force microscopy measurements confirm that the surfaces are smooth and continuous, even over atomic steps on the surface of the substrate. Using X-ray reflectance measurements, the thickness of each film grown under a range of conditions and times was determined to consistently terminate at 1.6nm, with a variation of less than 0.2 nm. Thus we have identified a self-terminating growth mode that enables robust synthesis of h-BN with highly uniform and reliable thickness on non-metal catalyzed substrates. Furthermore, this self-terminating growth behavior has shown signs of transitioning to continuous growth as deposition temperature increases.
Coupling of single DBT molecules to a graphene monolayer: proof of principle for a graphene nanoruler
Authors: Mazzamuto G. , Tabani A. , Pazzagli S. , Rizvi S. , Reserbat-Plantey A. , Schädler K. , Navickaite G. , Gaudreau L. , Cataliotti F.S. , Koppens F. , Toninelli C.
Published: February 2015

We report on our recent progress in the study of single Dibenzoterrylene (DBT) molecules as single photon sources and nanoscale probes. We consider DBT molecules embedded in thin anthracene films, a system that allows stable single photon emission both at room and at cryogenic temperatures. We investigate the most important optical properties of the DBT:anthracene system as a whole. We then perform a full statistical study of the coupling between single DBT molecules by measuring the lifetimes of DBT both in the coupled and in the uncoupled case. The experimental results are framed into a simple universal scaling model, where the magnitude of coupling depends solely on universal parameters and on the distance d between the single emitter and the graphene monolayer. We apply this model to infer d and provide a proof of principle for a position ruler at the nanoscale [1].
First-principles study of point defects in cerium dioxide and comparison to uranium dioxide
Authors: Shi Lei , Vathonne Emerson , Freyss Michel , Bertolus Marjorie , Oison Vincent , Hayn Roland
Published: February 2015

Uranium dioxide, as the standard nuclear fuel in pressurized water reactors, motivates intensive research to get further insight into the link between radiation damage and microstructure evolution of the material. Cerium dioxide is often considered as a non-radioactive model material for uranium dioxide, for which the experimental study of radiation damage could be performed more easily. Using first-principles calculations based on the density functional theory (DFT) and its DFT+U variant, we compare these two oxides in terms of point defect formation.
Modeling of the Amorphous Phase of Poly-CO with He and N
Authors: Batyrev Iskander G
Published: February 2015

Density functional theory (DFT) and variational density functional perturbation theory (DFPT) simulations of amorphous poly-CO structures were performed to understand the stability of the polymerized structure at low pressures and to study the mechanism of destruction of the extended network at low pressures. Charge population analyses accompanied the search of the “weakest link” in the covalently bonded network. IR and Raman spectra of amorphous p-CO, calculated at 15 and 5.02 GPa, show significant contributions of CO molecules, carbonyl groups fragments decorating chains, and lactones of amorphous p-CO structures. DFT simulations of formation of amorphous polymeric structures were also done with the addition (as a result of replacement of CO molecules) of N or He atoms to the crystalline delta phase of CO. For the CO-N mixtures, the concentration of N was varied in the range from 6.25 % to 50% with different distribution patterns of N atoms in the unit cell. For all studied CO-N concentrations, isotropic compression led to CO polymerization beginning at a pressure of 11 GPa; the N was incorporated in the random network in low concentration. In CO-He mixtures He atoms appear to facilitate complete formation of the random structure which is almost completely polymerized at a pressure of 18 GPa. He atoms also help stabilize the structure at low pressures.
THE RESULTS OF THE DEFECT PLACES INVESTIGATION OF DONETSK RAILWAY ROAD BED BY GROUND PENETRATING RADAR COMPLEX
Authors: Petrenko V. D. , Kovalevych V. V.
Published: February 2015

Purpose. Defective places definition of road bed at ground penetrating radar is examined. Methodology. For achievement of this goal the experimental research on ground penetrating radar inspection of road bed defective places of the Donetsk Railway, which are caused by a complex of various reasons of geotechnical and constructive character, were conducted. Findings. According to these diagnostic results of road bed on the three districts of the Donetsk Railway is revealed the main causes which lead to the defects appearance, deformities and injuries in it, there is abuse of process parameters and modify its physic mechanical soil properties of natural and technology-related factors. As it is established, the use of ground penetrating radar of series “Losa” on the railways of Ukraine allows searching ballast tank in the body of road bed, defining damp places in soil road bed and foundations, to find arrangement of foreign matter in the soil road bed and work search heterogeneity and places weakening soil. In addition, the use of ground penetrating radar provides rapid detection of defects, deformation and damage of railway track, especially in areas the most dangerous for rolling stock that creates the high level security at the main and auxiliary lines of Ukrzaliznytsia. In conducting the research was justified the high level of reliability and performance with autonomous use of ground penetrating radar. Originality. In modern conditions of defects determination, deformations and damages by traditional methods with application of engineering-geological investigations, it is impossible in connection with their insufficient efficiency. Therefore the using of highly effective methodology of expeditious tool identification of defective places allows reducing significantly the periods of repair of a railway track which is very important for introduction of the highspeed movement on the Ukrainian Railways. Practical value. On the basis of the executed investigations the main actions for defects elimination, deformations and damages which consist in the device of counter dams, the draining sections, the augercast and augured piles are offered.
Aloysio de Castro and Uruguay
Authors: Wilson Eduardo
Published: February 2015

Aloysio de Castro, when Director of the School of Medicine of Rio de Janeiro, and Américo Ricaldoni, when Dean of the School of Medicine of Montevideo, Uruguay, started a period of intense collaboration between both institutions. In this period, Aloysio visited Montevideo in many occasions, giving lectures, donating scientific material and publishing papers in Uruguay. Ricaldoni retributed his visits, distinguishing Aloysio as the first foreign Honorary Professor of the Medical School of Uruguay, participating in the inauguration of the new building of the School in Rio. Even after Ricaldoni’s death in 1928, for many years, Aloysio continued with his visits. A poem by Aloysio de Castro dedicated to Montevideo is attached.
Piribedil and Pathological Gambling in six Parkinsonian patients
Authors: Micheli Federico E. , Giugni Juan C. , Espinosa Micke E. De Arco , Calvo Daniela S. , Raina Gabriela B.
Published: February 2015

Impulse control disorders (ICD) in Parkinson's disease (PD) have attracted increasing interest. They are characterized by the inability to control the impulse to perform an act that can be detrimental to them or to others. Although dopamine agonists (DA), as a group, have been associated with impulse control disorders (ICD), piribedil has rarely been reported to cause them. Method Case reports of six parkinsonian patients on piribedil presenting pathological gambling (PG). Results All of the patients presented ICD associated with piribedil use. Two of them received this medication as first treatment and four of them who had developed ICDs secondary to other DA that reappeared with piribedil. Conclusion Despite piribedil is commercially available in only a few countries, it should be considered in the differential diagnosis of PG in patients with PD.
Safety and tolerability of controlled-release oxycodone on postoperative pain in patients submitted to the oncologic head and neck surgery
Authors: Cavalcanti Ismar Lima , Carvalho Ana Claudia Geraldino de , Musauer Mariana Gonçalves , Rodrigues Vanessa Salóes , Migon Renato Nobre , Figueiredo Nubia Verçosa , Vane Luis Antonio
Published: February 2015

Objective: To evaluate the safety and tolerability of controlled-release oxycodone in the treatment of postoperative pain of head and neck oncologic resections.Methods: We conducted a prospective, observational and open study, with 83 patients with moderate to severe pain after head and neck oncological operations. All patients received general anesthesia with propofol, fentanyl and sevoflurane. Postoperatively, should they have moderate or severe pain, we began controlled-release oxycodone 20 mg 12/12 b.i.d on the first day and 10 mg b.i.d. on the second. We assessed the frequency and intensity of adverse effects, the intensity of postoperative pain by a verbal numeric scale and the use of rescue analgesia from 12 hours after administration of the drug and between 7 and 13 days after the last oxycodone dose.Results: The most common adverse events were nausea, vomiting, dizziness, pruritus, insomnia, constipation and urinary retention, most mild. No serious adverse events occurred. In less than 12 hours after the use of oxycodone, there was a significant decrease in the intensity of postoperative pain, which remained until the end of the study. The rescue medication was requested at a higher frequency when the opioid dose was reduced, or after its suspension.Conclusion: Controlled release oxycodone showed to be safe and well tolerated and caused a significant decrease in post-operative pain.
Hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal function in men with liver cirrhosis before and after liver transplantation
Authors: Zacharias Bruno T. , Coelho Julio C. U. , Parolin Mônica B. , Matias Jorge E. F. , Freitas Alexandre C. T. de , Godoy José Luiz de
Published: February 2015

Objective: To evaluate the influence of end-stage liver disease and orthotopic liver transplantation in the pituitary function and hormone metabolism before and after liver transplantation.Methods: In a prospective study, serum levels of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), estradiol (E2) and prolactin (PRL) of 30 male patients with cirrhosis were determined two to four hours before and six months after liver transplantation. The results were compared according to the Model for End-stage Liver Disease (MELD).Results: male patients with liver cirrhosis have hypogonadism. FSH was normal, but inappropriately low due to androgen failure; E2 and PRL, on their turn, were high. After liver transplantation, FSH and LH levels increased (p < 0.05), whereas E2 and PRL normalized (p < 0.05). The MELD score did not influence changes in FSH, PRL and LH, however, the more severe the cirrhosis was, the more significant was the normalization of E2 (p = 0.01).Conclusion: Patients with cirrhosis and male hypogonadism have inappropriately normal levels of FSH and LH, associated with an increase in E2 and LRP. After liver transplantation, FSH and LH increased, while E2 and PRL returned to normal. Changes in E2 levels were most pronounced in patients with MELD > 18. The severity of cirrhosis had no influence on FSH, PRL and LH.
ALTERAÇÕES DA MATRIZ EXTRACELULAR ESPLÊNICA EM CÃES NATURALMENTE INFECTADOS COM Leishmania (Leishmania) infantum chagasi
Authors: Martins Nathálya dos Santos , Coelho Glaucia Barbosa , Santos Larissa Sarmento dos , Oliveira Rudson Almeida de , Silva Ana Lúcia Abreu , Melo Ferdinan Almeida
Published: February 2015

Objetivou-se estudar as alterações da matriz extracelular no baço de cães naturalmente infectados com Leishmania (Leishmania) infantum chagasi correlacionando-as com aspectos clínicos, histopatológicos e parasitológicos. Foram utilizados 18 cães, divididos em três grupos: seis animais não infectados (grupo controle) e doze animais infectados. Todos sem raça e idade definidas, provenientes da região do Município de São Luis-MA. Cortes parafinados do baço foram corados pela Hematoxilina e Eosina (H&E); Prata amoniacal de Gomori, para marcação das fibras reticulares e pela técnica Imuno-histoquímica da estreptoavidina-peroxidase para detecção de formas amastigotas de Leishmania. As análises morfométricas foram feitas utilizando-se o programa KS300 e o sistema de análise de imagens Kontron Elektronic/Carl Zeiss, Germany. Os resultados mostram que há um aumento significativo da deposição de fibras colágenas no baço quando comparadas aos animais controles, revelando diferenças significativas entre os animais sintomáticos e assintomáticos. Encontraram-se correlações positivas entre a presença do parasitismo tecidual e a deposição de colágeno. Os animais sintomáticos apresentaram uma maior deposição de colágeno no baço, que pode estar associada ao maior parasitismo tecidual encontrado. Os resultados demonstram que na leishmaniose visceral canina há uma fibrogênese intensa no baço, sendo esta associada ao parasitismo tecidual e a processos degenerativos decorrentes da doença.
A prática de enfermagem em uma Unidade de Queimados: análise dos discursos dos enfermeiros
Authors: Rossi Lídia Aparecida
Published: February 2015

Este estudo teve como objetivo analisar a prática de enfermagem em uma Unidade de Queimados. Essa análise foi realizada a partir dos depoimentos de enfermeiros dessa Unidade, obtidos em um estudo anterior através de técnica de observação participante e de registro cursivo(19). Concluímos que os enfermeiros estão insatisfeitos com os salários, com a jornada de trabalho, com o relacionamento médico-enfermeiro e com as situações que envolvem o sofrimento e a agressividade dos pacientes. O cuidado direto parece consistir em uma fonte de satisfação, mas o enfermeiro está dividido entre a realização desse cuidado e os problemas que têm que resolver. O planejamento da assistência foi ajustado às rotinas do serviço e não às necessidades dos pacientes.