bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Myeloid related protein induces muscle derived inflammatory mediators in juvenile dermatomyositis
Authors: Nistala Kiran , Varsani Hemlata , Wittkowski Helmut , Vogl Thomas , Krol Petra , Shah Vanita , Mamchaoui Kamel , Brogan Paul A , Roth Johannes , Wedderburn Lucy R
Published: September 2013

Introduction

The aetiopathogenesis of juvenile dermatomyositis (JDM) remains poorly understood. In particular the contribution of monocytes or macrophages, which are frequently observed to be an infiltrate within muscle tissue very early in the disease process, is unknown. We hypothesised that these cells secrete the pro-inflammatory myeloid related protein (MRP) 8/14 which may then contribute to muscle pathology in JDM.

Methods

In this study of 56 JDM patients, serum MRP8/14 levels were compared with clinical measures of disease activity. Muscle biopsies taken early in disease were assessed by immunohistochemistry to determine the frequency and identity of MRP-expressing cells. The effects of MRP stimulation and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress on muscle were tested in vitro. Serum or supernatant levels of cytokines were analyzed by multiplex immunoassay.

Results

Serum MRP8/14 correlated with physician’s global assessment of disease activity in JDM (R = 0.65, p = 0.0003) and muscle strength/endurance, childhood myositis assessment score (CMAS, R = −0.55, p = 0.004). MRP8/14 was widely expressed by CD68+ macrophages in JDM muscle tissue. When cultured with human myoblasts, MRP8 led to the secretion of MCP-1 and IL-6, which was enhanced by ER stress. Both inflammatory mediators were detected in significantly higher levels in the serum of JDM patients compared to healthy controls.

Conclusions

This study is the first to identify serum MRP8/14 as a potential biomarker for disease activity in JDM. We propose that tissue infiltrating macrophages secreting MRP8/14 may contribute to myositis, by driving the local production of cytokines directly from muscle.
Synthesis of Fibrous Nano-silica-supported TEMPO and Its Application in Selective Oxidation of Alcohols
Authors: Zhu Jie , Zhao Xue-jing , Wang Peng-cheng , Lu Ming
Published: September 2013

A fibrous nanosized catalyst with TEMPO supported on silica nanospheres was synthesized and used in the selective oxidation of alcohols into the corresponding aldehydes or ketones. The fibrous morphologies of the catalyst allowed easy accessibility between the substrate and the catalyst, and thus, improved reaction efficiency was obtained. A pseudo-homogeneous system was formed during the reaction process, with easy recovery of the catalyst through filtration.
A pre-zygotic barrier to hybridization in two con-generic species of scleractinian corals
Authors: Baird Andrew H. , Cumbo Vivian R. , Figueiredo Joana , Harii Saki
Published: September 2013

Hybridization is often cited as a potential source of evolutionary novelty in the order Scleractinia. While hybrid embryos can be produced in vitro, it has been difficult to identify adult hybrids in the wild. Here, we tested the potential for hybridization between two closely related species in the family Fungiidae. We mixed approximately 5000 eggs of Ctenactis echinata with sperm from Ctenactis crass. No hybrid embryos were produced. This observation adds to a growing body of evidence for pre-zygotic barriers to hybridization in corals and challenges the claim that hybridization is a major source of evolutionary novelty in the order.
Kairomonal communication in mice is concentration-dependent with a proportional discrimination threshold
Authors: Vasudevan Anand , Vyas Ajai
Published: September 2013

Odors of predators are often co-opted by prey species to serve as warning signals. Perceptual properties of such kairomonal communication are under studied despite their common use in many mammals. We demonstrate that the kairomonal response in mice to rat odors varies monotonically with the volume of rat odor. Moreover, the ability of mice to differentiate between two strengths of rat odors is dependent on the ratio of the two concentrations. These results show that mice can compare kairomonal strength over a large range of values, and that kairomonal communication follows Weber’s law.
Pathways to Success for Multi-Site Clinical Data Research
Authors: McGraw Deven , Leiter Alice
Published: September 2013

There are numerous and significant challenges associated with leveraging
electronic clinical data for purposes beyond treating an individual patient and getting
paid for that care. Optimizing this secondary use of clinical data is a key underpinning
of many health reform goals and triggers numerous issues related to data stewardship
and, more broadly, data governance. These challenges often involve legal, policy and
procedural issues related to the access, use and disclosure of electronic health record
(EHR) data for quality improvement and research.This paper contributes to the ongoing
discussion of health data governance by detailing the experiences of nine multi-site
research initiatives across the country The rich set of experiences from these
initiatives, as well as a number of resources used by project participants to work
through various challenges, are documented and collected here for others wishing to
learn from their collective efforts.The paper does not attempt to catalogue the full
spectrum of governance issues that could potentially surface in the course of multi-site
research projects using electronic clinical data. Rather, the goal was to provide a
snapshot in time of data-sharing challenges and navigation strategies, as well as
validation that privacy-protective, legally compliant clinical data-sharing across sites
is currently possible.Finally, the paper also provides a foundation and framing for a
broader community resource on governance – a “governance toolkit” – that will create a
virtual space for the further discussion and sharing of promising practices.
Making Choices While Smelling, Tasting, and Listening: The Role of Sensory (Dis)similarity When Sequentially Sampling Products
Authors: Biswas Dipayan , Labrecque Lauren I. , Lehmann Donald R. , Markos Ereni
Published: September 2013

Marketers are increasingly allowing consumers to sample sensory-rich experiential products before making purchase decisions. The results of seven experimental studies (two conducted in field settings, three conducted in a laboratory, and two conducted online) demonstrate that the order in which consumers sample products and the level of (dis)similarity between the sensory cues of the products influence choices. In the absence of any moderators, when sampling a sequence of sensory-rich experiential products (e.g., fragrances, chocolates, flavored beverages, music) with similar sensory cues (e.g., smell, taste, color, sound), consumers prefer the first product in the sequence. However, when sampling a sequence of products with dissimilar sensory cues, consumers prefer the last product. These findings (1) contribute to a better understanding of the role of sequential sensory cues on consumer choice formation, (2) have implications for effects related to sensory habituation and sensory trace fading, and (3) help resolve apparent inconsistencies in prior research on order effects in the context of choices for sequentially sampled experiential products.
Learned Helplessness among Newly Hired Salespeople and the Influence of Leadership
Authors: Boichuk Jeffrey P. , Bolander Willy , Hall Zachary R. , Ahearne Michael , Zahn William J. , Nieves Melissa
Published: September 2013

This article investigates the sales force socialization process, wherein newly hired salespeople often face failure-prone environments. Drawing from the learned helplessness paradigm, the authors hypothesize that cumulative periods of sales performance failure are associated with sales-oriented behavior intentions. In addition, the authors examine the influence of leadership, expecting core transformational leadership to have a diminishing effect as unmet sales goals accumulate. Study 1 finds support for these hypotheses using panel survey data from 221 new hires during six months of a furniture retailer's sales force socialization process. Then, aiming to uncover the underlying mechanism driving salesperson helplessness and a managerial approach that has a sustained impact, the authors conduct Study 2, a scenario-based experiment focused on the business-to-business insurance industry. The authors find that perceived task difficulty mediates the focal relationship and that error management enables core transformational leadership to have a lasting effect such that new hires have the lowest sales-oriented behavior intentions when transformational sales managers encourage them to make errors during their interactions with customers and to actively learn from their failures.
Close Encounter with the Hard Discounter: A Multiple-Store Shopping Perspective on the Impact of Local Hard-Discounter Entry
Authors: Vroegrijk Mark , Gijsbrechts Els , Campo Katia
Published: September 2013

“Hard discounters” (HDs) have become a considerable force in grocery retailing. With rock-bottom prices and minimal assortments, they differ greatly from “large discounters” such as Wal-Mart, constituting complements to, rather than substitutes for, more traditional supermarkets. Therefore, the authors propose that HD impact of entry on local incumbents is different as well. Using a store choice and spending model that explicitly accounts for interstore synergies and multiple-store shopping behavior, the authors study consumer responses to 194 HD openings. Although they find that HDs, like large discounters, especially appeal to private label–prone shoppers and lead to sizable incumbent losses, the results confirm that the nature of these losses is different. First, HDs do not cause incumbent chains to lose their best customers; instead, shoppers who have already visited other chains alongside the incumbent are lost. Second, the authors find that chains located in close proximity to new HDs do not suffer more from their entry. Third, losses are lower for upscale chains and incumbents that strongly complement the HD. The authors conclude by discussing implications for proper response to HD entry.
The relationship between estimated average glucose and fasting plasma glucose
Authors: Kim Hyun-Young , Lee Soo-Youn , Suh Sunghwan , Kim Jae Hyeon , Lee Moon Kyu , Park Hyung-Doo
Published: September 2013

Background: Estimated average glucose (eAG) is a value calculated from hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) that reflects average glycemic status over the preceding few months. A linear relationship between HbA1c and eAG was demonstrated by the International HbA1c-Derived Average Glucose (ADAG) Trial in 2008. We investigated the relationship between fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and eAG.

Methods: This retrospective study was conducted by reviewing the medical records of 6443 subjects, including 5567 diabetic patients and 876 non-diabetic subjects. The levels of HbA1c and FPG were reviewed and eAG was calculated using the regression equation published by the ADAG trial: eAGmmol/L=1.59×HbA1c(NGSP, %)–2.59[eAGmg/dL= 28.7×HbA1c(NGSP, %)−46.7].

Results: In all subjects, FPG showed a moderate correlation with eAG (r=0.672, p<0.001). When diabetic and non-diabetic subjects were divided into subgroups according to FPG level, the correlation between eAG and FPG decreased in both diabetic [FPG ≥10.0 mmol/L (180 mg/dL), r=0.425; FPG 7.2–9.9 mmol/L (130–179 mg/dL), r=0.373; FPG <7.2 mmol/L (130 mg/dL), r=0.202] and non-diabetic [FPG 5.6–6.9 mmol/L (100–125 mg/dL), r=0.363; FPG <5.6 mmol/L (100 mg/dL), r=0.186] subgroups as the FPG level decreased. The differences between eAG and FPG were statistically significant (p<0.001). Only 81% (4487/5567) of diabetic patients had a lower FPG level than eAG level.

Conclusions: Our results suggest that the relationship between eAG and FPG may depend on glycemic control, thereby enhancing our understanding of eAG.
Akathisia preceding an oculogyric crisis in a patient treated with prochlorperazine for hyperemesis gravidarum
Authors: Williams Patrick , Abenhaim Haim
Published: September 2013

Prochlorperazine is a class I-A anti-emetic recommended for the treatment of severe nausea and vomiting in pregnancy. We present a case where a patient presented with hyperemesis gravidarum refractory to pyridoxine/doxylamine and dimenhydrinate and developed akathisia and dystonia after receiving prochlorperazine. Her condition resolved immediately following the administration of diphenhydramine. While procholorperazine is known to very rarely cause focal dystonias such as an oculogyric crisis, the influence of phenothiazines and neuroleptics on dopaminergic receptors can also trigger behavioural changes, which can rapidly evolve into a life-threatening condition.
Decision Support in the Rioja Wine Production Sector
Authors: Latorre-Biel Juan-Ignacio , Jiménez-Macías Emilio , Blanco-Fernández Julio , Sáenz-Díez Juan Carlos
Published: September 2013

The global environment, where many companies compete for their survival, requires a continuous adaptation to changes in the market and to other environment variables. Food industry, agriculture in particular, is a field where the companies are especially sensitive to modifications in regulations and market requirements. It is very convenient to provide the companies of this sector with a theoretical basis, as well as with practical tools for developing an efficient management that may guarantee not only their survival but also their success. In this area, decision-support systems based on the simulation of models, developed by means of the paradigm of the Petri nets, can offer a significant help for improving the efficiency of farming companies, based on the appropriate decision making. In this article, a methodology for decision making, supported by artificial intelligence, is applied to the farming field and an application case is analyzed for better understanding of the advantages and drawbacks of this approach. In particular, a decision-making methodology for improving the management of the operation and redesign of traditional companies in the farming industry is applied to the wine sector in the region of La Rioja (Spain).
On the derived length of a finite Alperin 2-group
Authors: Wilkens Bettina
Published: September 2013

Let
Marine-Lenhart syndrome in a young girl
Authors: Şen Yaşar , Cimbek Emine Ayça , Yuca Sevil Arı , Gedik Gonca Kara , Sarı Oktay
Published: September 2013

Graves’ disease is the most common reason of hyperthyroidism in children. Graves’ disease with accompanying functioning nodules is defined as Marine-Lenhart syndrome. This syndrome has not been described in children before. Here, a 15-year-old girl with Graves’ disease and a coexisting cold nodule is presented. A thyroid scan showed diffuse uptake of Tc-99m pertechnatate in both lobes and decreased uptake in accordance with the left lobe nodule. The nodule was histologically diagnosed as benign. The patient was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes mellitus and polyglandular autoimmune syndrome during clinical follow-up. The differential diagnoses of Graves’ disease with coexisting nodules should include the Marine-Lenhart syndrome. Treatment options should be determined taking this rare condition into account.
Breastfeeding is natural but not always easy: intervention for common medical problems of breastfeeding mothers – a review of the scientific evidence
Authors: Bergmann Renate L. , Bergmann Karl E. , von Weizsäcker Katharina , Berns Monika , Henrich Wolfgang , Dudenhausen Joachim W.
Published: September 2013

Natural processes do not always function perfectly. In breastfeeding, problems are encountered in up to 80% of mother-infant dyads. Altogether, in Western societies, the difficulties reduce the breastfeeding rate within the first months drastically. To deal with the problems of breastfeeding efficiently requires a profound understanding of its physiology, as well as of its psychological and social determinants. This review focuses on the current knowledge of breastfeeding physiology, only touching the psychosocial factors, which are included in the promotion strategies. Subsequently, it scrutinizes definitions, incidences, prevention, and treatment of breastfeeding problems faced most frequently by nursing mothers and their consultants. Not all measures used in counseling mothers and not all treatments for the most common medical problems withstand a careful evaluation on the basis of current scientific data. However, applying proven prevention strategies will significantly improve the well being of mothers and their infants, and may contribute to an affective attitude that increases the success, frequency, and duration of breastfeeding.
Alternative biological assumptions strongly influence models of climate change effects on mountain gorillas
Authors: Thorne James H. , Seo Changwan , Basabose Augustine , Gray Maryke , Belfiore Natalia M. , Hijmans Robert J.
Published: September 2013

Endangered species conservation planning needs to consider the effects of future climate change. Species distribution models are commonly used to predict future shifts in habitat suitability. We evaluated the effects of climate change on the highly endangered mountain gorilla (Gorilla beringei beringei) using a variety of modeling approaches, and assessing model outputs from the perspective of three spatial habitat management strategies: status quo, expansion and relocation. We show that alternative assumptions about the ecological niche of mountain gorillas can have a very large effect on model predictions. ‘Standard' correlative models using 18 climatic predictor variables suggested that by 2090 there would be no suitable habitat left for the mountain gorilla in its existing parks, whereas a ‘limiting‐factor' model, that uses a proxy of primary productivity, suggested that climate suitability would not change much. Species distribution models based on fewer predictor variables, on alternative assumptions about niche conservatism (including or excluding the other subspecies Gorilla beringii graueri), and a model based on gorilla behavior, had intermediate predictions. These alternative models show strong variation, and, in contrast to the standard approach with 18 variables, suggest that mountain gorilla habitat in the parks may remain suitable, that protected areas could be expanded into lower (warmer) areas, and that there might be climactically suitable habitat in other places where new populations could possibly be established. Differences among model predictions point to avenues for model improvement and further research. Similarities among model predictions point to possible areas for climate change adaptation management. For species with narrow distributions, such as the mountain gorilla, modeling the impact of climate change should be based on careful evaluation of their biology, particularly of the factors that currently appear to limit their distribution, and should avoid the naïve application of standard correlative methods with many predictor variables.
Social Norms for Intimate Partner Violence
Authors: Witte Tricia H. , Mulla Mazheruddin M.
Published: September 2013

This study investigated perceived descriptive norms (i.e., perceived prevalence) for intimate partner violence (IPV) among college students. Male and female college students were asked to estimate the prevalence of IPV for same-sex “typical students” on their campus. Perpetrators of IPV made higher estimates than nonperpetrators. Both perpetrators and nonperpetrators overestimated the prevalence of IPV when compared to actual prevalence rates. Findings lend support for using social-norms-based prevention programs on college campuses.
Genetic Correlations among Haploids, Doubled Haploids, and Testcrosses in Maize
Authors: Geiger Hartwig H. , Andrés Gordillo G. , Koch Silvia
Published: September 2013

Doubled haploid (DH) lines produced via in vivo haploid induction have become an indispensable tool in maize (Zea mays L.) breeding and research. To determine the predictive value of the per se performance of haploid and DH lines in population and hybrid breeding, genetically balanced sets of haploid and DH lines along with testcrosses of the DH lines were evaluated in field trials across four locations over 2 yr in Germany. Suitable material sets were provided by three collaborating breeders. Each set comprised 54 to 58 DH lines developed from a proprietary elite dent single cross. These DH lines were crossed with one or two flint testers and subjected to haploid induction for production of corresponding haploid versions. Haploid lines, DH lines, and testcrosses were grown in separate but adjacent blocks. Haploid lines were surrounded by a mixture of inbred lines functioning as pollen source. Most haploid plants were male sterile but showed a certain degree of female fertility. Highly significant genetic variation reflected by high heritability coefficients existed in all material sets for all traits. Genetic correlations between haploid and DH lines were moderate to strong (0.5 < genetic correlation coefficient [rg] < 0.9) for early vigor, silking date, plant height, and stover weight per plant. Correlations between DH lines and testcrosses varied from nonsignificant to moderately strong for grain yield but were strong for silking date, plant height, stover yield, and grain moisture content. Silking date, early vigor, and plant height of haploid lines were moderately but significantly associated with grain yield of testcrosses. Somewhat higher estimates were obtained for the corresponding correlations between DH lines and testcrosses. In conclusion, selection for silking date, early vigor, plant height, and stover weight at the haploid level is expected to result in positive correlated genetic gain for various traits not only at the DH but also at the testcross level. Likewise, selection at the DH level may substantially speed up progress in combining ability.
Managing long-term capacity in the age of conservation
Authors: Qiao Frank , Michael Wang Z. , McCarthy Jim
Published: September 2013

This paper illustrates the long-term planning challenge for water utilities in the age of conservation using detailed operating data of three sampling entities from the mid 1990s to 2009. The induced behavioral change from conservation measures is found to be of a permanent nature and the unit consumption to be in long-term descent. This in turn may call for a paradigm change in pricing and capacity planning for utilities. The ever-declining per capita consumption alters many commonly acknowledged norms for utilities, in particular for fast growing ones that may have taken on additional financial leverage to support previously anticipated growth. If not managed properly, the full cost recovery mechanism of pricing may force those utilities into an unsustainable future of ever-decreasing total demand and ever-increasing cash flow shortfall. Collection of more detailed water demand data in a timely fashion may prove to be a necessary exercise for sound management of median to large water utilities.
Water distribution network optimization using maximum entropy under multiple loading patterns
Authors: Czajkowska Anna M. , Tanyimboh Tiku T.
Published: September 2013

This paper proposes a maximum entropy-based multi-objective genetic algorithm approach for the design optimization of water distribution networks (WDNs). The novelty is that in contrast to previous research involving statistical entropy the algorithm can handle multiple operating conditions. We used NSGA II and EPANET 2 and wrote a subroutine that calculates the entropy value for any given WDN configuration. The proposed algorithm is demonstrated by designing a six-loop network that is well known from previous entropy studies. We used statistical entropy to include reliability in the design optimization procedure in a computationally efficient way.
Effect of dead cells on biofouling in the reverse osmosis process
Authors: Shin Myung Seop , Kim Lan Hee , Kim Sung-Jo , Kim Chang-Min , Chae Kyu-Jung , Kim In S.
Published: September 2013

Biofilm formation in membrane processes causes a flux decline, pressure drop increase, and other adverse effects. Understanding the mechanisms of fouling, control, and cleaning are important in order to resolve fouling problems. In this paper, the effect of cell viability on biofouling was studied via a feed water analysis and membrane autopsy. Pseudomonas aeruginosa PAO1 was used as the model bacteria. Biofouling tests were divided into two parts: live cells and dead cells (autoclaved cells). The feed water was periodically collected every 3 h to analyze the total direct counts (TDCs), heterotrophic plate counts (HPCs), and extracellular polymeric substances (EPS). A membrane autopsy was performed to characterize the fouled membrane through TDCs and EPS. When dead cells were inoculated into the feed water, low concentrations of TDCs and EPS were measured in both the feed water and fouled membrane. As a result, it was determined that initial flux decline by biofouling can be reduced if feedwater is disinfected before the reverse osmosis process.
Modeling role of rice paddy field and its implication in water management
Authors: Park Hyunju , Kim Tschungil , Kim Hyunwoo , Han Mooyoung
Published: September 2013

The objective of this study is to develop a conceptual model to analyze the role of rice paddy fields in water management and to use the model to suggest an appropriate countermeasure for land development. Rice paddy fields are traditionally seen in East and South-East Asia, particularly in areas that have a considerable seasonal variation in rainfall resulting in flooding and drought. One of the advantages of these fields in East Asia is that the period of rainfall is similar to the period of the water demand of the rice paddy. In this study, the water management functions of rice paddy are evaluated using rainfall–storage–discharge (RSD) modeling. The RSD system is a type of onsite structure used for rainwater management. In this study, the area of the rice paddy is assumed to be 10,000 m2, and the rice paddy is considered to perform the storage and catchment functions of a rainwater harvesting system. The RSD system can be used for analyzing the outflow rate according to the rice paddy area and the peak outflow curves for a 100-year period; further, the effectiveness of the RSD system in reducing the final water discharge rate through a rice paddy is evaluated.
The use of process simulation models in virtual commissioning of process automation software in drinking water treatment plants
Authors: Worm G. I. M. , Kelderman J. P. , Lapikas T. , van der Helm A. W. C. , van Schagen K. M. , Rietveld L. C.
Published: September 2013

This research deals with the contribution of process simulation models to the factory acceptance test (FAT) of process automation (PA) software of drinking water treatment plants. Two test teams tested the same piece of modified PA-software. One team used an advanced virtual commissioning (AVC) system consisting of PA-emulation and integrated process simulation models. The other team used the same PA-emulation but basic parameter relations instead of the process simulation models, the virtual commissioning (VC) system. Each test team found one (different) error of the 13 errors put into the software prior to the experiment; most of the errors were found prior to the functional test. The team using the AVC-system found three errors, the team using the VC-system found four, but the AVC-team judged 1% of the test items ‘not possible’, the VC-team 17%. It was concluded that the hypothesis that with AVC more errors could be found than with VC could not be accepted. So, for the FAT of PA-software of drinking water treatment plants, the addition of basic parameter relations to PA-emulation was sufficient. It was not the exact process behavior that helped to find errors, but the passing of process thresholds.
Public–private partnership in the water sector in Romania: success or failure?
Authors: Iliescu F. , Popescu S. , Dragomir M. , Dragomir D.
Published: September 2013

The paper is focused on analyzing the public–private partnerships (PPP) in the water sector in Romania. A methodology based on the system lifecycle approach of ISO/IEC 15288:2008 is proposed to study the challenges in designing and implementing this type of policy instrument. The authors use structured approaches for investigating key issues related to PPP projects and they also illustrate the application potential of the concept by comparing two categories of projects, through a case study. One of the studied project categories refers to successful implementations of PPP, whilst the other refers to failures, thus showcasing the power of abstractization of systems engineering in understanding the real issues involved in these undertakings and allowing for improvement opportunities to be discovered.
Granulation of Fe-Al-Ce nano-adsorbent for fluoride removal from drinking water using inorganic binder
Authors: Su Chao-Li , Chen Lin , Wang Ting-Jie , Yu Li-Xin , Jin Yong
Published: September 2013

Nano-adsorbents usually have high fluoride adsorption capacity. However, they cannot be used in packed beds because of their low hydraulic conductivity. Granulation with organic binder usually causes a great loss of adsorption capacity due to the active sites of the adsorbent being extensively occupied by the organic binder. Using inorganic sol as a binder is expected to have a potential for reducing the loss of adsorption capacity. In this paper, aluminium, zirconium, titanium and silica sol were employed as binders for Fe-Al-Ce nano-adsorbent granulation. The nano-adsorbent was mixed with sol and dried to form lumps, then calcinated and ground into powder. The morphology, adsorption capacity and structure of the compound powder were analysed. As an optimization, aluminium sol was selected as a binder in the granulation of Fe-Al-Ce nano-adsorbent using extrusion method. The effects of sol on the adsorbent and the granule structure were characterized. The granules showed a high adsorption capacity, reaching over 90% capacity of Fe-Al-Ce nano-adsorbent, much higher than that of using acrylic-styrene copolymer latex as a binder in our previous research. It is inferred that aluminium sol is a suitable binder which does no damage to the active hydroxyl group of Fe-Al-Ce adsorbent.
Spatial variability of 137Cs in the soil of Belgrade region (Serbia)
Authors: Jankovic-Mandic Ljiljana , Dragovic Ranko , Djordjevic Milan , Djolic Maja , Onjia Antonije , Dragovic Snezana , Bacic Goran
Published: September 2013

Among radionuclides in the soil deposited after Chernobyl accident, 137Cs
poses considerable environmental and radiological problems because of its
relatively long half-life (30.17 y), its abundance in the fallout, high
mobility and similarity to potassium as the major plant nutrient. In this
study the samples of undisturbed surface soil (n=250) were taken from 70
regions in Belgrade, during 2006-2010. The specific activities of 137Cs were
measured by gamma-ray spectrometry. Based on obtained results external
effective dose rates were calculated according to the internationally
accepted activity to dose rate conversion equations. The specific activities
of 137Cs were geographically mapped. The presence of 137Cs has been detected
in all soil samples, with high variability of its specific activity, ranging
from 3 Bq kg-1 to 87 Bq kg-1. The mean specific activity of 137Cs was 23 Bq
kg-1 and the corresponding absorbed dose was 1.5 nSv h-1. The observed range
reflects the inhomogeneity of the deposition process following the Chernobyl
accident. It could also be attributed to topographic differences and spatial
differences in physicochemical and biological soil properties, soil type and
vegetation cover. The results of the present study could be valuable database
for future estimations of the impact of radioactive pollution.
Effect of thermal energy storage in energy consumption required for air conditioning system in office building under the African Mediterranean climate
Authors: Abdulgalil Mohamed , Kosi Franc , Musbah Mohamed , Komatina Mirko
Published: September 2013

In the African Mediterranean countries, cooling demand constitutes a large
proportion of total electrical demand for office buildings during peak hours.
The thermal energy storage systems can be an alternative method to be
utilized to reduce and time shift the electrical load of air conditioning
from on-peak to off-peak hours. In this study, the Hourly Analysis Program
has been used to estimate the cooling load profile for an office building
based in Tripoli weather data conditions. Preliminary study was performed in
order to define the most suitable operating strategies of ice thermal
storage, including partial (load leveling and demand limiting), full storage
and conventional A/C system. Then, the mathematical model of heat transfer
for external ice storage would be based on the operating strategy which
achieves the lowest energy consumption. Results indicate that the largest
rate of energy consumption occurs when the conventional system is applied to
the building, while the lowest rate of energy consumption is obtained when
the partial storage (demand limiting 60%) is applied. Analysis of results
shows that the new layer of ice formed on the surface of the existing ice
lead to an increase of thermal resistance of heat transfer, which in return
decreased cooling capacity.
The Bayesian Approach to Radiocarbon Calibration Curve Estimation: The IntCal13, Marine13, and SHCal13 Methodologies
Authors: Niu M , Heaton T J , Blackwell P G , Buck C E
Published: September 2013

This article outlines the Bayesian models and methods used to facilitate construction of the 2013 internationally agreed radiocarbon calibration curves known as IntCal13, Marine13, and SHCal13. The models build on those used for the 2004 and 2009 estimates of the curves and, as in 2009, arc implemented using Markov chain Monte Carlo sampling, specifically a Metropolis-within-Gibbs sampler. In addition to the data structures accounted for within the 2004 and 2009 models, the approach outlined here also allows for: the presence of additional uncertainty that the data providers have been unable to quantify; tree-ring data that derive their calendar age from wiggle-matching (in addition to ring counting); varve-counted data that exhibit zero increase in calendar age error between 2 or more consecutive layers; and any data source for which we have dependent calendar age uncertainties.
Death Distress among Two Samples of Lower and Higher Stress in Health Care Professionals
Authors: Ayyad Fatma
Published: September 2013

A convenience sample of 195 volunteer nurses working in different medical departments was recruited (77 Kuwaiti, 118 non-Kuwaiti from 10 countries; 55 men, 140 women; ages 25 to 51 years). Participants responded in English to the Arabic Scale of Death Anxiety, the Death Depression Scale, the Death Obsession Scale, and the Reasons for Death Fear Scale. Pearson correlations between the four scales were statistically significant and positive. The only significant sex difference was on the Death Depression Scale with men reporting more stress. It was also found that nurses dealing with critical cases and working in higher stress departments (Intensive Care Unit and Heart Department) obtained higher mean scores on the Death Depression Scale, Death Obsession Scale, and Reasons for Death Fear Scale than their counterparts working in lower stress departments such as internal medicine. It was concluded that working in higher stress nursing departments affected death distress. Nurses with high scores on death distress may benefit from a thanatopsis program. There is reason to believe that this may ameliorate relations with patients.
Using Geographical Information Systems as an Information Visualization Tool. A Case Study
Authors: Măzăreanu Valentin Petru
Published: September 2013

The geographical information system represents a branch of information technology that was developed along with the traditional business information technologies. It enables viewing of complex data in a graphical manner easy to understand, providing a more realistic view of the conditions which must be evaluated. The geographical information systems are used in various fields, like geography, geology and all the related fields, public administration, military activities, transportation and infrastructure administration, business, healthcare, social services or land properties management.

In this paper we will emphasize how these systems can be used as a powerful information visualization tool in educational environment, taking into account that information visualization makes data easier to understand using direct sensory experience, especially the visual one.
Adverse Incentive Effects of the Unemployment Benefit Level in Romania
Authors: Enache Cosmin
Published: September 2013

This paper proposes an empirical analysis of the effects of unemployment benefit on unemployment in Romania. First, the existence of a long-run equilibrium relation between the two variables was checked using single-equation cointegration tests. The results showed that such a relation does not exist. Next, in order to evaluate the short-term effects of unemployment benefit on unemployment level, a VAR analysis was employed. Impulse response functions analysis showed that the number of persons registered as unemployed is expecting to rise as the value of monthly unemployment benefit is increasing. However, the variance decomposition analysis pointed out that only a small part (under 5%) of unemployment short-term dynamics could be explained by potential shocks in the unemployment benefit level.
Magnetic ground survey of Slovakia for the 2007.5 epoch – accuracy of geomagnetic elements distribution maps
Authors: Dolinský Peter , Valach Fridrich , Váczyová Magdaléna
Published: September 2013

Magnetic ground or repeat station surveys are performed to determine the geomagnetic field (GMF) spatial distribution, which is of great importance for scientific purposes as well as for many applications, for instance the aerial navigation. In for the information about the GMF distribution to be complete, the accuracy of the geomagnetic maps need to be known. It is a custom in the papers dealing with magnetic surveys that the precision of the instruments employed for the measurements are listed there. However, such information is not sufficient to answer the question about the quality of the geomagnetic maps because our experience shows that the spatial variations at a distance of several kilometers often exceed the precisions of the instruments. In the paper we proposed a simple method for the evaluation of the accuracy of the GMF distribution maps. We applied it to the maps which were the results of the magnetic ground survey carried out in Slovakia in the 2007.5 epoch. The method is based on the following procedure which is accomplished for each observation point of the magnetic ground survey network: A single point drops out of the data base, then the map is generated in a standard way, whereupon the observed value of the geomagnetic element for the dropped out observation point is compared with the value of the geomagnetic element which is determined from the map. Thus the image of the accuracy of the complete map can be tagged together for the surveyed territory
The results of an 18–year old beech trees (Fagus sylvatica L.) provenance trial in the Łobez Forest District
Authors: Kowalkowski Wojciech
Published: September 2013

The experimental area is located in the Węgorzyno Forest Sub-District, Łobez Forest District. 29 Polish provenances of beech from their natural range were growth in a completely randomised block design with four replications. In 2010, after the end of the growing season, measurements were carried out on the experimental plot, including: determination of the survival rate and the diameter at breast height, and height of trees. Moreover, the total basal area and the total volume were calculated. Using ANOVA, statistically significant differences between provenances were apparent for four of the five traits measured; all except diameter at breast height. Provenances characterised by high values for the analysed traits were considered the best adapted to the habitat conditions in the experimental plot, while provenances reaching low values were considered unsuitable for use under the conditions similar to those at the trial site location
The significance of old-growth forests in maintaining lichen diversity – an example from the remnants of the Mazovian Forest
Authors: Kubiak Dariusz
Published: September 2013

The paper presents the results of a lichenological study conducted in 2012 in the ‘Lekowo’ forest complex, situated in the north-western part of Mazovia (Forest Division of Ciechanów). It is the largest forest complex in the area, covering 1596 ha. The research area comprises two small nature reserves (‘Lekowo’ - 5,31 ha, and ‘Modła’ - 9,36 ha) with old-growth oak trees (160-200 years of age) and adjacent managed pine forests (76-107 years of age). The aim of this study was to investigate the species composition of the lichen biota in both reserves and to determine the role of nature reserves in preserving lichen diversity. Results of the study showed that old-growth stands, in particular those composed of oak trees above recommended felling age, provide habitats for a large group of stenotopic forest lichens which are absent in managed forests. The ‘Lekowo’ and ‘Modła’ nature reserves, despite their small areas, are valuable refuges that help to conserve remarkable lichen diversity at the local scale, and serve as potential diaspore sources for many rare and threatened lichen species
Determination of biodegradation rate of carrier for microorganism immobilization fabricated based on starch
Authors: Tomaszewska-Ciosk Ewa , Golachowski Antoni , Zdybel Ewa
Published: September 2013

The study was aimed on the determination of biodegradation rate of extruded starch carriers, with or without immobilized microorganisms in diversified storage conditions. The research was conducted on potato starch, in which Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast cells were immobilized. Preparations with and without yeasts were than placed for 84 days in the environments of: light soil, heavy soil, compost, water and activated sludge. After 0, 7, 14, 21, 49 and 84 days of storage the preparations were perfused with water and analyzed. In the recovered samples the following tests were carried out: the force causing fracture, the elongation caused by the mentioned force, the mass and the diameter of the carrier. Due to the degradation the size and the mechanical properties of the samples were decreased. The rate of the degradation was strongly dependent on the environment of the storage. The fastest degradation of the carriers were observed for compost and heavy soil, while the slowest biodegradation was observed for the samples placed in the water environment. The rate of biodegradation was also influenced by the Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeasts. The rate of biodegradation was faster in the samples containing yeast cells, than in the extrudates without the microorganisms.
The application of ultrafiltration for separation of glycerol solution fermented by bacteria
Authors: Tomczak Wirginia , Gryta Marek
Published: September 2013

A biotechnological synthesis generated a fermentation broth containing the dissociated forms of organic compounds and residual mineral salts. An effective method of selective removal of the ionic species and organic compounds from solutions comprises nanofiltration and reverse osmosis. Ultrafiltration (UF) was used in this work as a pre-treatment method for the preparation of feed for these processes. The UF study was carried out with a real broth, which was obtained using Citrobacter freundii bacteria for the fermentation of glycerol solutions, resulting in the UF permeate with turbidity below 0.1 NTU. However, a significant decline of the permeate flux was observed during the UF process. The influence of the transmembrane pressure on the fouling intensity of used ceramic membranes was investigated. A periodical membrane cleaning was carried out by rinsing with water and a 1 wt % solution of sodium hydroxide. The applied cleaning procedures permitted to restore the initial permeate flux.
OSL and TL characteristics of fine grain quartz from Mongolian prehistoric pottery used for dating
Authors: Solongo Saran , Richter Daniel , Begzjav Tuguldur , Hublin Jean-Jacques
Published: September 2013

The OSL, post-IR OSL and pulsed post-IR OSL applied to polymineral grains and calculated by fitting to the data the contributions from fast, medium and slow components revealed that the polymineral samples under study are dominated by the medium component. An increase in De’s with increasing integration intervals was observed, which is considered as an indication of increasing medium and decayed fast component; and the equivalent doses obtained using different components or minerals reflect also the shape of the dose distributions. The identified fast component in polymineral sample has photoionization cross section of 1.2±0.02 × 10−17 cm2. The present study shows the usefulness of the application of different luminescence techniques combined with fitting procedures as a check which should be adopted in dating protocols. Based on luminescence ages obtained on poly-mineral grains from prehistoric pottery samples from the Boroo settlement, Mongolia, which are in agreement with independent age control by 14C on charcoal material, it is argued that the manufacturing of Xiongnu — pottery at this site lasted until ca. 130±75 AD.
Caroli's Disease: A case report
Authors: Patowary BN , Kumar S , Pun A , Kafle P , Chhetri PK
Published: September 2013

Caroli's disease (CD) is a rare congenital abnormality characterized by dilatation of intra-hepatic bile ducts, recurrent cholangitis, formation of calculi inside these ducts with normal extra hepatic ducts and higher risk for cholangiocarcinoma. Association of this disease with congenital hepatic fibrosis is named as Caroli's syndrome. We reported 30 years old women with recurrent epigastric pain for 2 years with normal Liver function Test however involving both lobes of liver who developed cholangiocarcinoma approximately 6 months later. Journal of College of Medical Sciences-Nepal, 2012, Vol-8, No-3, 51-54 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jcmsn.v8i3.8685
Unusual calcified foreign body in ureter
Authors: Agarwal A , Praveen CR , Pradhan SK , Belokar WK
Published: September 2013

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jcmsn.v8i3.8688 Journal of College of Medical Sciences-Nepal,2012,Vol-8,No-3, 47-50