bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interlaboratory Study of Free Cyanide Methods Compared to Total Cyanide Measurements and the Effect of Preservation with Sodium Hydroxide for Secondary‐ and Tertiary‐Treated Waste Water Samples
Authors: Stanley Brett J. , Antonio Karen
Published: November 2012

Several methods exist for the measurement of cyanide levels in treated wastewater,typically requiring preservation of the sample with sodium hydroxide to minimize loss of hydrogen cyanide gas (HCN). Recent reports have shown that cyanide levels may increase with chlorination or preservation. In this study, three flow injection analysis methods involving colorimetric and amperometric detection were compared within one laboratory, as well as across separate laboratories and equipment. Split wastewater samples from eight facilities and three different sampling periods were tested. An interlaboratory confidence interval of 3.5 ppb was calculated compared with the intralaboratory reporting limit of 2 ppb. The results show that free cyanide measurements are not statistically different than total cyanide levels. An artificial increase in cyanide level is observed with all methods for preserved samples relative to nonpreserved samples, with an average increase of 2.3 ppb. The possible loss of cyanide without preservation is shown to be statistically insignificant if properly stored up to 48 hours. The cyanide increase with preservation is further substantiated with the method of standard additions and is not a matrix interference. The increase appears to be correlated with the amount of cyanide observed without preservation, which appears to be greater in those facilities that disinfect their wastewater with chlorine, followed by dechlorination with sodium bisulfite.
Can Nonloricate Ciliate Assemblages be a Surrogate to Analyze Taxonomic Relatedness Pattern of Ciliated Protozoan Communities for Marine Bioassessment? A Case Study in Jiaozhou Bay, Northern China
Authors: Zhu Mingzhuang , Jiang Yong , Zhang Wei , Al‐Rasheid Khaled A. S. , Xu Henglong
Published: November 2012

ABSTRACT  Congruency using nonloricate ciliates as a surrogate to analyze taxonomic distinctness pattern of ciliated protozoan communities for assessing water quality was studied. The results showed that (1) with significant consistency with the total ciliate communities, the spatial pattern of nonloricate ciliates was significantly correlated with the changes of environmental status; (2) four taxonomic relatedness measures were significantly correlated with those of the total ciliate communities; (3) spatial variations in four taxonomic diversity indices of nonloricate ciliates were significantly related with the changes of environmental variables, especially nutrients; and (4) the paired taxonomic biodiversity indices of nonloricate ciliates showed a clear decreasing trend of departure from the expected taxonomic breadth in response to water quality. These results suggest that nonloricate ciliate assemblages can be used as a potential surrogate of ciliate communities to assess marine water quality using taxonomic distinctness measures, especially the paired indices based on presence or absence data.
Finite and infinite support in nominal algebra and logic: nominal completeness theorems for free
Authors: Gabbay Murdoch J.
Published: November 2012

By operations on models we show how to relate completeness with respect to permissive-nominal models to completeness with respect to nominal models with finite support. Models with finite support are a special case of permissive-nominal models, so the construction hinges on generating from an instance of the latter, some instance of the former in which sufficiently many inequalities are preserved between elements. We do this using an infinite generalisation of nominal atoms-abstraction.

The results are of interest in their own right, but also, we factor the mathematics so as to maximise the chances that it could be used off-the-shelf for other nominal reasoning systems too. Models with infinite support can be easier to work with, so it is useful to have a semi-automatic theorem to transfer results from classes of infinitely-supported nominal models to the more restricted class of models with finite support.

In conclusion, we consider different permissive-nominal syntaxes and nominal models and discuss how they relate to the results proved here.
Preoperative staging of rectal cancer: Role of 3D endorectal ultrasonography
Authors: Santoro Giulio
Published: November 2012

Endorectal ultrasonography has become important part of preoperative staging
of rectal cancer, providing adequate information for clinical decision-
making in many cases. However, with the currently available ultrasonographic
equipment and techniques, a good deal of relevant information may remain
hidden. The advent of high-resolution three-dimensional endoluminal
ultrasound, constructed from a synthesis of standard two-dimensional
cross-sectional images, and of "Volume Render Mode," a technique to analyze
information inside a threedimensional volume, promises to improve the
accuracy of rectal cancer staging. The anatomic structures in the pelvis, the
axial and longitudinal extension of the tumor, the presence of slight or
massive submucosal invasion in early rectal cancer may be imaged in greater
detail. This additional information will bring an improvement for both
planning and conduct of surgical procedures.
Laparoscopic approach for inflammatory bowel disease surgical management
Authors: Maggiori Léon , Panis Yves
Published: November 2012

For IBD surgical management, laparoscopic approach offers several theoretical
advantages over the open approach. However, the frequent presence of
adhesions from previous surgery and the high rate of inflammatory lesions
have initially questioned its feasibility and safety. In the present review
article, we will discuss the role of laparoscopic approach for IBD surgical
management, along with its potential benefits as compared to the open
approach.
Transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEM) for T1 rectal cancer
Authors: Maggiori Léon , Panis Yves
Published: November 2012

Transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEM) was introduced in 1983 as an
alternative to radical proctectomy for the management of rectal adenomas
unsuitable for endoscopic or standard transanal resection. Since, its
indications have progressively broadened to early rectal cancer. This review
article will assess the role of TEM for T1 rectal cancer management, along
with its operative and long-term results.
The possibilities of Slovakian pyrethrum production
Authors: Tóth Stefan , Stricík Michal , Týr Stefan , Veres Tomás
Published: November 2012

This paper discusses possibilities for pyrethrum Chrysanthemum
cinerariaefolium (Trevir.) Vis. production in southern regions of Slovakia,
with an emphasis on target marketing, management constraints and further
research. Pyrethrum is not a traditional crop in Slovakia but prospects have
opened up for its cultivation. The high yields and quality of some suitable
pyrethrum ecotypes provide the grounds for effective field production under
favorable conditions. Pyrethrum yielding 1.275 t of dried flowers per hectare
and having at least 1.5% pyrethrum content can be a profitable and highly
lucrative crop with an economic result ranging from 413 to 1071 ? per ha. A
SWOT analysis revealed that pyrethrum production in Slovakia could take a
course of an offensive strategy. However, intensive production of this
commodity needs further development. Prospects for this non-traditional crop
in Slovakia are also promising in terms of development of farming systems in
which plant protection products of botanical origin would be welcome.
Improved processing and stabilization of extract would further increase the
possibilities.
Induction motor IFOC based speed-controlled drive with asymptotic disturbance compensation
Authors: Stojic Djordje , Stojic Milic
Published: November 2012

This paper presents the design of digitally controlled speed electrical
drive, with the asymptotic compensation of external disturbances, implemented
by using the IFOC (Indirect Field Oriented Control) torque controlled
induction motor. The asymptotic disturbance compensation is achieved by using
the DOB (Disturbance Observer) with the IMP (Internal Model Principle). When
compared to the existing IMP-based DOB solutions, in this paper the robust
stability and disturbance compensation are improved by implementing the
minimal order DOB filter. Also, the IMP-based DOB design is improved by
employing the asymptotic compensation of all elemental or more complex
external disturbances. The dynamic model of the IFOC torque electrical drive
is, also, included in the speed-controller and DOB section design. The
simulation and experimental measurements presented in the paper illustrate
the effectiveness and robustness of the proposed control scheme.
Application of standard and modified Eh-Star test method for induction motor stray load losses and efficiency measurement
Authors: Koprivica Branko , Bozic Milos , Rosic Marko , Bjekic Miroslav
Published: November 2012

The aim of this paper is to present the application of one simple and
accurate method for the measurement of stray load losses (additional load
losses) in induction machines. That is the Eh-Star method given in the IEC
60034-2-1 standard. In this paper the theoretical background of the method
and the measurement procedure have been explained. All measurements have
been performed using modern measurement systems based on a personal
computer, data acquisition cards and LabVIEW software. According to the
measured results for the stray load losses, the efficiency of the induction
motor has been calculated. The efficiency obtained has been compared with
the IEC standard efficiency classes, in order to determine the efficiency
class of the tested motor. Additionally, measurements have been performed
using the modified Eh-Star method. The results obtained have been compared
with those obtained using the Eh-Star method. The advantages and
disadvantages of both methods have been analyzed in this paper.
The analysis of the influence of the ferromagnetic rod in an annular magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) pump
Authors: Bergoug Nassima , Kadid Zohra , Abdessemed Rachid
Published: November 2012

This paper deals with the 2D modelisation of an annular induction
magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) pump using finite volume method in cylindrical
coordinates and taking into consideration the saturation of the ferromagnetic
material. The influence of the ferromagnetic rod on the different
characteristics, in the channel of the MHD pump was studied in the paper.
The effects of physical training on cardiovascular parameters, lipid disorders and endothelial function
Authors: Rankovic Goran , Djindjic Natasa , Rankovic-Nedin Gorana , Markovic Sasa , Nejic Dragan , Milicic Branislava , Djindjic Boris
Published: November 2012

Bacground/Aim. Regular physical activity is widely accepted as factor that
reduces all-cause mortality and improves a number of health outcomes. The aim
of this study was to investigate the effects of aerobic exercise training on
cardiovascular parameters, lipid profile and endothelial function in patients
with stable coronary artery disease (CAD). Methods. The study included
seventy patients with stable CAD. All the patients were divided into two
groups: the group I - 33 patients with CAD and with regular aerobic physical
training during cardiovascular rehabilitation program phase II for 3 weeks in
our rehabilitation center and 3 weeks after that in their home setting, and
the group II (control) - 37 patients with CAD and sedentary lifestyle.
Exercise training consisted of continual aerobic exercise for 45 minutes on a
treadmill, room bicycle or walking, three times a week. We determined lipid
and cardiovascular parameters and nitric oxide (NO) concentration at the
beginning and after a six-week of training. Results. There were no
significant differences in body weight, waist circumference and waist/hip
ratio at the start and at the end of physical training program. Physical
training significantly reduced body mass index after six weeks compared to
the initial and control values. Physical training significantly reduced
systolic and diastolic blood pressure and heart rate after a six-week
training period (p < 0.05). Heart rate was significantly lower after a
training period as compared to the control (p < 0.05). A significant
reduction of triglyceride and increased high density lipoprotein cholesterol
(HDL-C) concentration after cardiovascular rehabilitation were registered (p
< 0.05). The concentration of triglycerides was significantly lower while NO
and HDL-C were higher after six weeks in the exercise training group (p <
0.05). Conclusion. Dynamic training can improve blood pressure in patients
with moderate to severe hypertension and reduce the need for medication.
Exercise programs induced favorable adaptations on lipoproteins profile,
cardiovascular parameters and endothelial function which are clinically
desirable in primary and secondary prevention of CAD.
Longidorus profundorum Hooper, 1965 (Nematoda: Dorylaimida) in the Slovak Republic
Authors: Lišková M.
Published: November 2012

The species Longidorus profundorum Hooper, 1965 was for the first time recorded in the territory of Slovakia. It was observed in the rhizosphere of Fraxineto-Quercetum forest of riverine plain along Moravia River in south-western part of country, close to boundary with Austria. Morphometrics of females, males and four juvenile stages, morfological and molecular characteristic of Slovakian specimens are presented.
Relationships of benthic amphipod communities with environmental variables in the shallow waters of the Dardanelles
Authors: Suat Ateş A. , Sezgin Murat , Katağan Tuncer , Göksel Özdilek H. , Berber Selçuk , Kolsal Seçil , Bircan Cüneyt
Published: November 2012

The structure of the benthic amphipod assemblage and its relationship with soft-bottom characteristics (particle size, organic matter, etc.) of the coastal waters at the depths of 0–5 m at the Dardanelles, including the Turkish Straits System, was studied. A SCUBA diver took benthos and sediment samples seasonally using a quadrate system of 30×30 cm as three transects from the 8 different stations between July 2008 and April 2009. A total of 3007 individuals belonging to 50 species was reported. Among these, Corophium acutum Chevreux, 1908 had the highest dominance value (Di%=22.18) and the lowest dominance value belonged to Dexamine thea Boeck, 1861 (Di%=0.03). The highest positive correlation (rs=0.57, p<0.05) was observed between the gravel content (%) and the abundance (ind. m−2). The highest sand rate (99.59%) in the sediment was found at the Eceabat site. The lowest rate was at the Kepez Harbour station with a value of 73.01%. The highest H′ value (1.53) was recorded at the Eceabat site, and the lowest H′ value (H′=0.95) was recorded at the Gallipoli sampling station.
Magnetoelectric characteristics of cobalt-iron alloy–lead zirconate titanate bilayer planar structures
Authors: Hörner Eduard , Krykanov Ivan M. , Chashin Dmitry V. , Fetisov Yury K. , Fetisov Leonid Y. , Shamonin Mikhail
Published: November 2012

The characteristics of both direct and converse magnetoelectric (ME) interactions in bilayer composite structures comprising layers of a commercially available magnetostrictive permendur CoFe alloy and different piezoelectric PZT ceramics are investigated in detail by the method of harmonic field modulation. It is shown that, given the optimum DC magnetic bias field, a high piezomagnetic coefficient in the alloy leads to increased efficiency of ME interactions. The resonant behavior of frequency dependencies of the magnetoelectric voltage is explained by excitation of bending and planar mechanical oscillations in the structures. The results are of interest for developing highly sensitive AC magnetic field sensors and magnetoelectric transducers for energy harvesting from mechanical vibrations.
Properties of Si3N4/SiC composites produced via spark plasma sintering
Authors: Taslicukur Zeynep , Sahin Filiz Cinar , Kuskonmaz Nilgun
Published: November 2012

Si3N4 ceramics reinforced with SiC particles were fabricated via spark plasma sintering at 1650°C under 40 MPa pressure. AlN and Y2O3 were used as sintering additives. The purpose of this work was to study the influence of SiC powders on the properties of Si3N4/SiC composites. The microstructure, phase composition, and mechanical properties of the composites were investigated. It was found that mechanical properties of the composites improved, the α–β transformation and grain growth of β-Si3N4 were inhibited and the equiaxed grain increased due to the increase of SiC(w).
The Second Darwinian Revolution: Steps Toward a New Evolutionary Environmental Sociology
Authors: Mclaughlin Paul
Published: November 2012

Three decades after Catton and Dunlap's (1978, 1980) pioneering work, the promise and potential of environmental sociology remain unrealized. Despite the proliferation of theoretical frameworks and empirical foci, a "new ecological paradigm" capable of theorizing the interactions between social structures, human agency, and biophysical environments has yet to emerge. I explore this impasse by tracing the parallels between the Darwinian revolution and recent shifts in metatheoretical assumptions within environmental and mainstream sociology and related disciplines. These parallels suggest that the social sciences are in the midst of a second Darwinian revolution. A fuller appreciation of this intellectual convergence can provide the first steps toward a new evolutionary environmental sociology.
Alpha-Beta Pruning and Althöfer’s Pathology-Free Negamax Algorithm
Authors: Abdelbar Ashraf M.
Published: November 2012

The minimax algorithm, also called the negamax algorithm, remains today the most widely used search technique for two-player perfect-information games. However, minimaxing has been shown to be susceptible to game tree pathology, a paradoxical situation in which the accuracy of the search can decrease as the height of the tree increases. Althöfer’s alternative minimax algorithm has been proven to be invulnerable to pathology. However, it has not been clear whether alpha-beta pruning, a crucial component of practical game programs, could be applied in the context of Alhöfer’s algorithm. In this brief paper, we show how alpha-beta pruning can be adapted to Althöfer’s algorithm.
Cell and Gene Therapy Approaches for Cardiac Vascularization
Authors: Melly Ludovic , Boccardo Stefano , Eckstein Friedrich , Banfi Andrea , Marsano Anna
Published: November 2012

Despite encouraging preclinical results for therapeutic angiogenesis in ischemia, a suitable approach providing sustained, safe and efficacious vascular growth in the heart is still lacking. Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) is the master regulator of angiogenesis, but it also can easily induce aberrant and dysfunctional vascular growth if its expression is not tightly controlled. Control of the released level in the microenvironment around each cell in vivo and its distribution in tissue are critical to induce stable and functional vessels for therapeutic angiogenesis. The present review discusses the limitations and perspectives of VEGF gene therapy and of different cell-based approaches for the implementation of therapeutic angiogenesis in the treatment of cardiac ischemia.
Protection against Ischemia-Induced Oxidative Stress Conferred by Vagal Stimulation in the Rat Heart: Involvement of the AMPK-PKC Pathway
Authors: Kong Shan-Shan , Liu Jin-Jun , Yu Xiao-Jiang , Lu Yi , Zang Wei-Jin
Published: November 2012

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) production is an important mechanism in myocardial ischemia and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase is one of major sources of ROS in the heart. Previous studies showed that vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is beneficial in treating ischemic heart diseases. However, the effect of VNS on ROS production remains elusive. In this study, we investigated the role of VNS onischemia-induced ROS production. Our results demonstrated that VNS alleviated the myocardial injury, attenuated the cardiac dysfunction, reserved the antioxidant enzyme activity and inhibited the formation of ROS as evidenced by the decreased NADPH oxidase (Nox) activity and superoxide fluorescence intensity as well as the expression of p67phox, Rac1 and nitrotyrosine. Furthermore, VNS resulted in the phosphorylation and activation of adenosine monophosphate activated protein kinase (AMPK), which in turn led to an inactivation of Nox by protein kinase C (PKC); however, the phenomena were repressed by the administration of a muscarinic antagonist atropine. Taken together, these data indicate that VNS decreases ROS via AMPK-PKC-Nox pathway; this may have potential importance for the treatment of ischemic heart diseases.
Stability Computations for Isomers of La@Cn (n = 72, 74, 76)
Authors: Slanina Zdeněk , Uhlík Filip , Lee Shyi-Long , Adamowicz Ludwik , Akasaka Takeshi , Nagase Shigeru
Published: November 2012

Density-functional theory calculations are presented for low-energy La@C72, La@C74 and La@C76 isomers with IPR (isolated pentagon rule) and non-IPR cages. The relative isomeric production yields at high temperatures are evaluated using the calculated terms, and the relationships to observations are discussed.
Finger Vein Recognition Based on Local Directional Code
Authors: Meng Xianjing , Yang Gongping , Yin Yilong , Xiao Rongyang
Published: November 2012

Finger vein patterns are considered as one of the most promising biometric authentication methods for its security and convenience. Most of the current available finger vein recognition methods utilize features from a segmented blood vessel network. As an improperly segmented network may degrade the recognition accuracy, binary pattern based methods are proposed, such as Local Binary Pattern (LBP), Local Derivative Pattern (LDP) and Local Line Binary Pattern (LLBP). However, the rich directional information hidden in the finger vein pattern has not been fully exploited by the existing local patterns. Inspired by the Webber Local Descriptor (WLD), this paper represents a new direction based local descriptor called Local Directional Code (LDC) and applies it to finger vein recognition. In LDC, the local gradient orientation information is coded as an octonary decimal number. Experimental results show that the proposed method using LDC achieves better performance than methods using LLBP.
Use of an Innovative Web-Based Laboratory Surveillance Platform to Analyze Mixed Infections Between Human Metapneumovirus (hMPV) and Other Respiratory Viruses Circulating in Alberta (AB), Canada (2009–2012)
Authors: Fathima Sumana , Lee Bonita E. , May-Hadford Jennifer , Mukhi Shamir , Drews Steven J.
Published: November 2012

We investigated the proportions of mono vs. mixed infections for human metapneumovirus (hMPV) as compared to adenovirus (ADV), four types of coronavirus (CRV), parainfluenza virus (PIV), RSV, and enterovirus/rhinovirus (ERV) in Alberta, Canada. Using the Data Integration for Alberta Laboratories (DIAL) platform, 26,226 respiratory specimens at ProvLab between 1 July 2009 and 30 June 2012 were selected and included in the study. Using the Respiratory Virus Panel these specimens tested positive for one or more respiratory virus and negative for influenza A and B. From our subset hMPV was the fourth most common virus (n=2,561) with 373 (15%) identified as mixed infection using DIAL. Mixed infection with hMPV was most commonly found in infants less than 6 months old and ERV was most commonly found in mixed infection with hMPV (230/373, 56%) across all age groups. The proportion of mixed-infection vs. mono-infection was highest for ADV (46%), followed by CRV 229E (32%), CRV HKU1 (31%), CRV NL63 (28%), CRV OC43 (23%), PIV (20%), RSV (17%), hMPV (15%) and ERV (13%). hMPV was significantly more likely to be identified in mono infection as compared with ADV, CRV, PIV, and RSV with the exception of ERV [p < 0.05].
Value Orientations and Normative Evaluations of Individuals Visiting Coral Reef Areas in Hawai'i
Authors: Ceurvorst Robyn L. , Needham Mark D.
Published: November 2012

This article uses data from a survey of 1,422 individuals visiting six coral reef areas in Hawai'i to examine their value orientations (e.g., protection–use, biocentric–anthropocentric) toward these areas and how these orientations influence their norms regarding use densities
at these areas. Belief statements measured value orientations (e.g., “coral reefs have value whether humans are present or not”) and photographs of increasing use densities measured norms. The largest number of users had strong protectionist orientations toward reef areas and these
individuals were more likely to feel that higher use densities should not be allowed in these areas, had more crystallization or consensus about use densities that should and should not be allowed, and believed more strongly that use levels were important to manage at these areas.
Killer Whale Killers
Authors: Parsons E. C. M.
Published: November 2012

In February 2010, a SeaWorld trainer was killed by a killer whale (Orcinus orca). The particular killer whale involved has been involved in three of the four human deaths attributed to killer whales in captivity. A second trainer had been killed just 9 weeks earlier by a SeaWorld
killer whale on loan to a facility in the Canary Islands. As a result of the most recent incident, the US Occupational Safety and Health Administration cited SeaWorld in August 2010 for a willful violation of the US Occupational Safety and Health Act, because of the potential and specific
dangers the agency considered killer whales to pose to trainers. SeaWorld appealed the citation, which went to court in September/November 2011. In addition, the controversy over holding killer whales in captivity led the US House of Representatives Subcommittee on Insular Affairs, Oceans
and Wildlife to hold an oversight hearing in April 2010.
Poster Presentations in the Virtual world
Authors: Sloan Rosalind
Published: November 2012

This column describes a creative virtual-world approach used by the American Nurses Association Center for Continuing Education and Professional Development to provide an additional venue for continuing nursing education within a large conference format. Hurdles that were overcome in developing a virtual world of poster presentations included determining how to award contact hours, how to secure funding, how to separate sponsorship from the integrity of the learning activity, and how to manage submissions and content.
Ideal Position for Thumb Interphalangeal Arthrodesis in the Era of Smartphones and Text Communication
Authors: Yao Jeffery , Park Min Jung , Davis Drew , Chang James
Published: November 2012

The hypothesis of this study was that arthrodesis of the thumb interphalangeal joint at a degree of flexion greater than the recommended 0° to 15° in the era of widespread use of handheld devices would potentially be more beneficial for the use of these devices. For patients who rely heavily on a smart-phone or handheld device and require dominant thumb arthrodesis, thumb interphalangeal arthrodesis at an angle of 10° or 30° will neither improve nor impede their use of the device.
Bone Grafting in Shoulder Arthroplasty
Authors: Riboh Jonathan C. , Garrigues Grant E.
Published: November 2012

Educational Objectives

As a result of reading this article, physicians should be able to:

1.

Describe options for managing posterior glenoid bone loss in primary anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty.

2.

Describe the indications for and results of bone grafting for glenoid loss in revision anatomic total shoulder arthroplasty.

3.

Describe options for managing superior glenoid bone loss and discuss the role of bony lateralization in primary reverse total shoulder arthroplasty.

4.

Describe the design features of fracture stems and options for bone grafting augmentation in the treatment of proximal humerus fractures.

Shoulder arthroplasty is one of the fastest-growing fields in orthopedic surgery. Deficiency of the glenoid or humeral bone stock is a major challenge that can result from degenerative arthritis, component loosening or extraction, fracture, or malignancy. Approximately 15% of primary reconstructions will require bone grafting, and the rate is higher for revisions. The authors present a systematic review of the current literature focused on the indications for and results of bone grafting techniques. This provides the practicing surgeon with a set of strategies to address bone loss in the primary and revision settings, whether using an anatomic or reverse design.
Locking Versus Nonlocking Palmar Plate Fixation of Distal Radius Fractures
Authors: Osti Michael , Mittler Christoph , Zinnecker Richard , Westreicher Christoph , Allhoff Clemens , Benedetto Karl Peter
Published: November 2012

This study compared functional and radiological outcomes after treatment of extension-type distal radius fractures with conventional titanium nonlocking T-plates or titanium 1.5-mm locking plates. A total of 60 patients were included and followed for 4 to 7 years after receiving nonlocking T-plates (group A; n=30) or locking plates (group B; n=30) with and without dorsal bone grafting. Bone grafting was significantly more often performed in the nonlocking group to increase dorsal fracture fixation and stability (
P
<.003). Pre- and postoperative and follow-up values for palmar tilt, radial inclination, radial shortening, and ulnar variance were recorded. Age, sex, and fracture type were similarly distributed between the 2 groups. Postoperative and follow-up evaluation revealed equal allocation of intra-articular step formation and osteoarthritic changes to both groups. The overall complication rate was 25%. Compared with the nonlocking system, patients undergoing locking plate fixation presented with statistically significantly better values for postoperative palmar tilt (5.53° vs 8.15°;
P
<.02) and radial inclination (22.13° vs 25.03°;
P
<.02). However, forearm pronation was significantly better in group A (
P
<.005). At follow-up, radial inclination tended to approach a statistically significant difference in favor of group B. All clinical assessment, including Mayo wrist score, Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score, Green and O’Brien score, Gartland and Werley score, visual analog scale score, and grip strength, yielded no statistically significant difference between the 2 groups. Locking plates seem to provide benefits regarding surgical technique and comfort, improvement in implant anchorage (especially in osteoporotic bone), and reduce the necessity of additional bone grafting.
Cocaine Use and Surgical Outcomes of Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Sadhu Anita , Ahn Nicholas U.
Published: November 2012

The purpose of this study was to determine the average age of individuals diagnosed with cervical spinal myelopathy who are known cocaine users vs nonusers, as well as the postoperative change in neurological condition between cocaine users and nonusers. Medical records of patients diagnosed with cervical spinal myelopathy between January 1990 and May 2006 were reviewed. Ninety-four patients were identified who underwent any surgical intervention with at least 2 years of follow-up. Group 1 comprised patients with cervical spinal myelopathy who had used cocaine, and group 2 comprised patients with cervical spinal myelopathy who had not used cocaine. All patients were clinically evaluated by the Nurick grade preoperatively and at most recent follow-up. Mean follow-up was 25 months. Mean age at presentation was 52 years (range, 44–62 years) in group 1 and 56 years (range, 42–88 years) in group 2. Average duration of symptoms prior to surgical intervention was 18.6 months in group 1 and 10 months in group 2. Average Nurick grade at presentation was 2.7 for group 1 and 2.7 for group 2. Average postoperative Nurick grade was 1.9 for group 1 and 1.33 for group 2. Change in Nurick grade was 0.8 for group 1 and 1.11 for group 2. Linear regression analysis comparing change in Nurick grade (from pre- to postoperative) was conducted, showing a correlation of −0.45 with a
P
value of .044.

To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study demonstrating that cocaine use has an effect on postoperative improvement of neurological function in cervical spondylotic myelopathy.
Posttraumatic Chronic Patellar Dislocation Treated by Distal Femoral Osteotomy and Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Purushothaman Balaji , Agarwal Amit , Dawson Matt
Published: November 2012

Chronic patellar dislocation is a rare condition where the patella remains dislocated throughout knee range of motion during flexion and extension. In adults, the delayed presentation of this condition is often due to symptoms caused by the onset of severe secondary osteoarthritis. To the authors’ knowledge, all of the cases reported in the literature have been treated by patellofemoral or total knee replacements depending on patient age and the extent of the arthritis.

This article describes a rare case of a 22-year-old woman who sustained a traumatic chronic patellar dislocation for 5 months. Clinical examination revealed a valgus deformity of the left leg secondary to childhood injury and that the patella lay lateral to the lateral femoral condyle throughout flexion and extension. Radiographs of the knee revealed patellar dislocation. Long-leg radiographs of the left leg showed an anatomic tibiofemoral angle of 17° valgus. The anatomical (74°) and mechanical (80°) lateral distal femoral angles were abnormal, whereas the medial proximal tibial angle (87°) was normal, confirming that the valgus deformity was due to the abnormal distal femur. The authors performed a distal femoral osteotomy to correct the valgus deformity. Medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction using a hamstring autograft was performed to stabilize the patella.
Significance of Cyclin D1 Polymorphisms in Patients with Head and Neck Cancer
Authors: Sabir Maimoona , Baig Ruqia Mehmood , Mahjabeen Ishrat , Kayani Mahmood Akhtar
Published: November 2012

Cyclin D1 plays a key role in cell cycle control, particularly in the transition from G1 to S phase, regulated by cyclin-dependent kinases. The objective of the present study was to screen the cyclin D1 gene (CCND1) for polymorphisms in patients with head and neck cancer (HNC). Genomic DNA was isolated from blood samples of 380 HNC patients and 350 controls. In a hospital-based case-control study using the PCR-SSCP technique we found 3 novel germline mutations: g3578C>A, g3475G>C and g3383delA. The commonly reported guanine to adenine polymorphisms in exon 4 g7656G>A (rs9344) and g10861C>A (rs7177) in 3′UTR of CCND1 were also observed. The calculated frequencies of the g7656G>A (rs9344) polymorphism in GG, GA and AA genotypes were 27.3%, 38.6%, and 33.9% in HNC cases, and 44.2%, 29.4%, and 26.2% in normal healthy controls, respectively. Adjusted by age (in years), sex and smoking status, multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that the AA and GA genotypes were associated with a significantly increased risk (OR 1.34, 95% CI 1.03-1.64, p=0.028) for HNC. The CCND1 AA genotype variant was associated with an increased risk in individuals who were <40 years old (OR 1.45, 95% CI 1.02-2.08, p=0.04). In conclusion, it is suggested that the CCND1 G/A polymorphism is associated with the early onset of HNC and may contribute to HNC susceptibility in a Pakistani population.
The Public and Its Affective Problems
Authors: Clarke Lynn
Published: November 2012

Dewey emphasizes the perception of “indirect consequences” of transactions as the basis of responsible public identity and organization. These consequences are external; they appear in the scientifically observable world and are susceptible to technical control. But transactions may have indirect affective consequences that are part of a culturally influenced inner reality, pose obstacles to speech and communication, and fund an irresponsible public identity-cum-organization. Rhetorical theory that builds on Dewey's “public” ignores these consequences at considerable cost. This claim is supported by a social psychoanalytic conception of affects and by an interpretive-analysis of public speech-acts that moved from opposition to the largely unauthorized immigration of Latin Americans to Nashville-Davidson County, Tennessee, to reactionary endorsement and legislative passage of an “English-first” ordinance.
MOS Current Mode Logic with Capacitive Coupling
Authors: Gupta Kirti , Pandey Neeta , Gupta Maneesha
Published: November 2012

A new MOS current mode logic (MCML) style exhibiting capacitive coupling to enhance the switching speed of the digital circuits is proposed. The mechanism of capacitive coupling and its effect on the delay are analytically modeled. SPICE simulations to validate the accuracy of the analytical model have been carried out with TSMC 0.18 μm CMOS technology parameters. Several logic gates such as five-stage ring oscillator, NAND, XOR2, XOR3, multiplexer, and demultiplexer based on the proposed logic style are implemented and their performance is compared with the conventional logic gates. It is found that the logic gates based on the proposed MCML style lower the delay by 23 percent. An asynchronous FIFO based on the proposed MCML style has also been implemented as an application.
Honey Discrimination Using Visible and Near-Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Li Yun , Yang Haiqing
Published: November 2012

This study aims to investigate the potential of honey discrimination by visible and near-infrared (vis-NIR) spectroscopy with wavelength reduction. A total of 80 samples from four brands of honey produces were measured by a mobile fiber-type USB4000 spectrophotometer with recorded wavelength range of 380.17~939.98 nm for model calibration. Firstly, principal components analysis (PCA) was used for extracting principal components (PCs). Next, the first seven PCs, which accounted for 97% of variance of the spectra, were combined separately with support vector machine (SVM) and linear discriminate analysis (LDA) to develop PC-SVM and PC-LDA models, both of which achieved 100% discrimination accuracy. In addition, the spectra were subjected to successive wavelength reduction rates (WRRs) of 2x, x = 1–9, for wavelength reduction. The PC-LDA and PC-SVM models developed for these reduced wavelengths produced almost the same performance as compared with those developed for original full wavelengths. This experiment suggests that vis-NIR spectral wavelengths can be reduced at large spacing interval, which allows easing data analysis as well as developing a simpler and cheaper sensor for honey discrimination in practice.
Querying the Causal Role of Attitudes in Educational Attainment
Authors: Gorard Stephen
Published: November 2012

This paper synthesizes the evidence on the causal impact of attitudes on educational attainment using a simple four-element model of causation—requiring association, sequence, intervention, and explanation. Overall, there was no clear evidence that intervening to change the educational attitudes of disadvantaged students will lead to enhanced attainment. Some mental concepts, such as external motivation, show promise and could be developed further. Others, like locus of control, show little promise and could even be dangerous if used without care. Given that there are other approaches that can help to overcome the poverty gradient in schools, raising aspirations is not the way for policy to go. The stratification of educational outcomes is more likely to be structural rather than mental. An improved attitude without the competence to do something about it could be ineffective, whereas competence may be sufficient in isolation. The current evidence is that attitudes do not cause variation in attainment, and so policies and practices based on a belief that they do are being, and will continue to be, ineffective. Such policies also present opportunity costs, using budget that could be used for more promising approaches, and leaving the poverty gradient largely untouched for yet another generation.
Host Defence against Bacterial Biofilms: “Mission Impossible”?
Authors: Hänsch Gertrud Maria
Published: November 2012

Bacteria living as biofilms have been recognised as the ultimate cause of persistent and destructive inflammatory processes. Biofilm formation is a well-organised, genetically-driven process, which is well characterised for numerous bacteria species. In contrast, the host response to bacterial biofilms is less well analysed, and there is the general believe that bacteria in biofilms escape recognition or eradication by the immune defence. In this review the host response to bacterial biofilms is discussed with particular focus on the role of neutrophils because these phagocytic cells are the first to infiltrate areas of bacterial infection, and because neutrophils are equipped with a wide arsenal of bactericidal and toxic entities. I come to the conclusion that bacterial biofilms are not inherently protected against the attack by neutrophils, but that control of biofilm formation is possible depending on a timely and sufficient host response.
The Linares Addictive Potential Model
Authors: Oscar A. Linares
Published: November 2012

The Salerian Addictive Potential (SAP) hypothesis indicates that addictive potential may be calculated as A=E/Tmax x t1/2, where A is addictive potency, E euphoric potency, Tmax (hr) is the time to reach peak plasma concentration, and t½ (hr) is the plasma elimination half-life. However, this approach is inconsistent with first-order linear pharmacokinetics. The units of the denominator of the equation are units of acceleration (hr2), not speed (the first derivative). Therefore, the present contribution presents a minimal-model hypothesis for quantifying a drug's addictive potential. This model is superior to the SAP model because it is the simplest model, with the minimum number of parameters and assumptions, and it decreases variance through less loss of information.
Study on the Household Use of Iodised Salt in Sindh and Punjab Provinces, Pakistan: Implications for Policy Makers
Authors: Gul Nawaz Khan  , Imtiaz Hussain  , Sajid Bashir Soofi  , Arjumand Rizvi  , Zulfiqar A. Bhutta
Published: November 2012

Purpose: To assess knowledge, attitude and practices with respect to use of iodised salt, and to estimate its uptake at household level in Sindh and Punjab, Pakistan.
Methods: A cross sectional survey was conducted between January and March 2007. A structured questionnaire was administered and household salt tested for iodine content across 9,701 households to identify current knowledge and practices towards use of iodised salt.
Results: Nearly 85% of the salt tested had no iodine, 8% had iodine levels of at least 75 ppm, whereas 7% of the salt contained between 15 and 50 ppm of iodine.The results of multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that in comparison to urban areas, rural households were more likely not to use of iodised salt (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) =1.38, 95% CI 1.16-1.62), and Province Sindh was less likely not to use of iodised salt as compare to Punjab (AOR =0.81, 95% CI 0.69-0.96). In addition, results also revealed that illiteracy (AOR =1.61, 95% CI 1.28-2.04), no knowledge of iodised salt (AOR =2.09, 95% CI 1.44-3.04), unavailability of iodised salt (AOR =2.93, 95% CI 2.10-4.07), and unawareness about the advantages of use of iodised salt (AOR =1.97, 95% CI 1.65-2.36) were the main associated factors with non-use of iodised salt for cooking at household levels in Sindh and Punjab provinces, Pakistan.
Conclusions: Despite awareness of iodised salt,actual use of adequately iodised salt was much lower, hence collaborative efforts between public and private sectors are strongly recommended to increase the availability and salt iodization in Pakistan.
Quercetin Enhances Endurance Capacity via Antioxidant Activity and Size of Muscle Fibre Type 1
Authors: Leelayuwat  , S. Laddawan  , Y. Kanpetta  , M. Benja  , D. Wongpan  , O. Tunkamnerdthai  , J. Wattanathorn  , S. Muchimapura  , J. Yamauchi
Published: November 2012

This study aimed to examine effects of quercetin on 1) endurance capacity 2) malondialdehyde (MDA) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity in skeletal muscle and 3) muscle fibre density and size in mice after an intense exercise. There were 5 groups: control, vitamin C (250 mg/kg body weight), quercetin 150, 300, and 450 mg/kg body weight respectively once a day for 28 days. Endurance capacity was measured by exhaustive swimming exercise test which was done 24-h after swimming at high intensity. Then muscles were analyzed for MDA, SOD activity, and muscle fibre density and size. After the 28-day treatment, endurance time in vitamin C and quercetin treated groups at dose of 150 mg/kg body weight were longer than the vehicle group (p
Phytochemical Investigations and Nutritive Potential of Eight Selected Plants from Ghana
Authors: Rita A. Dickson  , Kofi Annan  , Theophilus C. Fleischer  , Isaac K. Amponsah  , Kwabena Nsiah  , J.A. Oteng
Published: November 2012

In Ghana and most parts of Africa, traditional vegetables and herbs are important sources of proteins, minerals and vitamins for the general population. In order to meet the daily recommended nutritional requirements for the betterment of health and general well being, these vegetables and herbs are seen as an integral part of the diet of the people. In this study, the phytochemical constituents, mineral content and nutritive potential of eight selected plants, Amaranthus incurvatus (Amaranthaceae), Launaea taraxacifolia (Asteraceae), Manihot utilissima (Euphorbiaceae), Ceiba pentandra (Malvaceae), Manniophyton fulvum (Euphorbiaceae), Corchorus olitorius (Malvaceae), Talinum triangulare (Portulacaceae) and Hibiscus sabdariffa (Malvaceae), were evaluated using standard methods. The results showed that, alkaloids, glycosides, flavonoids, terpenoids, phytosterols and tannins are present in almost all the plant samples. Vitamin C is the abundant vitamin present in the selected plants followed by vitamin A. The crude protein ranged from 7.44 – 31.5% with A. incurvatus and T. triangulare providing the highest amount. The elemental analysis in mg/100g of dry matter revealed H. sabdariffa calyx contained the highest amount of magnesium (Mg) and iron (Fe), providing about 43.48% and 72% of the respective daily value of these minerals. The sodium (Na) and potassium (K) contents of the samples were within recommended daily values except H. sabdariffa which exceeded it daily value for potassium (K). The selected plants may therefore be considered asviable and cheap sources of dietary nutrients and their incorporation in diets may be said to be scientifically justifiable.
Access to data and reports after completion of a research project
Authors: Nagy Murielle
Published: November 2012

During research projects, ethical protocols must be followed to ensure protection of the rights and intellectual property of Aboriginal peoples and researchers. In such a context, researchers collect and analyse data, write reports, present their findings at conferences, and publish them. Once the project is completed, what are the researchers’ rights to the data they have collected and the reports they have written? What are their duties? These questions are particularly relevant to those researchers who work with or for Aboriginal organisations. Before signing any contract or research agreement, researchers should make a point of retaining the right to use the data and reports for their own writing and publishing.

We are beginning to realise the obvious: a story does not exist as something to be captured but as something to be passed on (Morrow and Schneider 1995: 2).