bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of carprofen and meloxicam on C-reactive protein, ceruloplasmin, and fibrinogen concentrations in dogs undergoing ovariohysterectomy
Authors: Kum Cavit , Voyvoda Huseyin , Sekkin Selim , Karademir Umit , Tarimcilar Tugrul
Published: September 2013

Objective—To evaluate the effects of perioperative oral administration of carprofen and meloxicam on concentrations of 3 acute-phase proteins in dogs undergoing elective ovariohysterectomy (OVH).

Animals—18 healthy adult anestrous female dogs undergoing elective OVH.

Procedures—Dogs were allocated to 3 groups (6 dogs/group). A placebo treatment, carprofen (2.0 mg/kg), or meloxicam (0.2 mg/kg) was orally administered to the dogs of the respective groups. The initial doses were administered 30 minutes before premedication prior to OVH; additional doses were administered once daily for 4 days after surgery. Blood samples were collected 45 minutes before premedication and 4, 8, 12, 24, 36, 48, 72, 96, and 120 hours after the end of OVH; samples were used for measurement of total WBC and neutrophil counts and concentrations of C-reactive protein (CRP), ceruloplasmin, and fibrinogen.

Results—Values did not differ significantly among groups for WBC and neutrophil counts, serum concentrations of CRP and ceruloplasmin, and plasma concentrations of fibrinogen. Concentrations of all inflammatory markers, except serum ceruloplasmin, increased significantly following OVH, but in a similar manner for each group. No significant changes were detected in serum ceruloplasmin concentrations over time.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Perioperative administration of both carprofen and meloxicam did not significantly affect the concentrations of CRP, ceruloplasmin, and fibrinogen in dogs undergoing OVH. Thus, use of carprofen or meloxicam should not affect clinical interpretation of results for these 3 acute-phase proteins.
Degree and duration of corneal anesthesia after topical application of 0.4% oxybuprocaine hydrochloride ophthalmic solution in ophthalmically normal dogs
Authors: Douet Jean-Yves , Michel Julien , Regnier Alain
Published: September 2013

Objective—To assess the anesthetic efficacy and local tolerance of topically applied 0.4% oxybuprocaine ophthalmic solution to in dogs and compare its effects with those of 1% tetracaine solution.

Animals—34 ophthalmically normal Beagles.

Procedures—Dogs were assigned to 2 groups, and baseline corneal touch threshold (CTT) was measured bilaterally with a Cochet-Bonnet aesthesiometer. Dogs of group 1 (n = 22) received a single drop of 0.4% oxybuprocaine ophthalmic solution in one eye and saline (0.9% NaCl) solution (control treatment) in the contralateral eye. Dogs of group 2 (n = 12) received a single drop of 0.4% oxybuprocaine ophthalmic solution in one eye and 1% tetracaine ophthalmic solution in the contralateral eye. The CTT of each eye was measured 1 and 5 minutes after topical application and then at 5-minute intervals until 75 minutes after topical application.

Results—CTT changes over time differed significantly between oxybuprocaine-treated and control eyes. After instillation of oxybuprocaine, maximal corneal anesthesia (CTT = 0) was achieved within 1 minute, and CTT was significantly decreased from 1 to 45 minutes, compared with the baseline value. No significant difference in onset, depth, and duration of corneal anesthesia was found between oxybuprocaine-treated and tetracaine-treated eyes. Conjunctival hyperemia and chemosis were detected more frequently in tetracaine-treated eyes than in oxybuprocaine-treated eyes.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Topical application of oxybuprocaine and tetracaine similarly reduced corneal sensitivity in dogs, but oxybuprocaine was less irritating to the conjunctiva than was tetracaine.
Physico-chemical properties investigation of softwood surface after treatment with organic anhydride
Authors: Bodîrlău Ruxanda , Teacă Carmen-Alice , Roşu Dan , Roşu Liliana , Varganici Cristian-Dragoş , Coroabǎ Adina
Published: September 2013

Wood originating from a softwood species was subjected to chemical treatment by reaction with succinic anhydride in N, N-dimethylformamide at different concentration values. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis were used to study changes that occurred on a softwood surface. The extent of chemical treatment on softwood was evaluated by determining the weight percent gain values. Thermal properties of modified softwood and the water absorption were also evaluated. The chemical treatment with succinic anhydride influenced the thermal stability of the softwood samples with increasing anhydride concentration levels.
Corrosion depth profiles of nitrided titanium alloy in acidified sulphate solution
Authors: Jagielska-Wiaderek Karina , Bala Henryk , Wierzchon Tadeusz
Published: September 2013

Thick (400 µm) glow-discharge nitrided layers, TiN+Ti2N + αTi(N) type, have been produced on the Ti-1Al-1Mn titanium alloy. Using a progressive thinning method, the polarization characteristics at different depths of nitrided layers have been measured. From the plots of obtained potentiodynamic polarization curves the depth profiles of characteristic anodic and cathodic currents (at potentials corresponding to (a) hydride formation, (b) hydrogen evolution, (c) primary passivation, (d) oxygen evolution and (e) secondary passivation) as well as polarization resistance have been determined in 0.5 M Na2SO4 solution acidified to pH = 2. The anomalously high slope of the polarization curves in the cathodic region has been ascribed to the formation of titanium hydride. It has been shown that outer nitrided layers (up to 25 µm) exhibit excellent acid corrosion resistance owing to strong inhibition of the anodic process by TiN phase. Corrosion resistance of deeper situated layers gradually decreases and at depths of 250–370 µm the corrosion process is accelerated by presence of TiO2 precipitations. Nitrided layers, unlike the alloy core, allow oxygen evolution on the oxy-nitrided surface at potential of +1.6 V and at more positive potentials gradual transformation of the surfacial film into TiO2 takes place. Secondary passivation on nitrided titanium is less efficient than that in the absence of Ti-N species.
Preparation and Characterisation of complex Bis(pentafluorophenyl) antimony(V) anions of the type [(Rf)2SbCl3X]-
Authors: Yadav Ram Nath Prasad
Published: September 2013

A series of hiteherto unreported solid salts of hexa-coordinated anions of the general formula [(Rf)2SbCl3X]- , where Rf = C6F5 ; L = Cl and X = Cl, Br, I, N3, NCS and SeCN have been prepared in the presence of tetraorgano ammonium, phosphonium, arsonium and stibonium counter ions. The complexes have been formulated and characterised on the basis of elemental analysis, molar conductances, molecular weights and solid state IR, solution state 1H NMR and 19F NMR spectral data. The physico-chemical data are consistent with six-coordinate antimony complexes.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ijasbt.v1i3.8304 Int J Appl Sci Biotechnol, Vol. 1(3) 2013 : 90-96
Medicinal Plants as a Source of Antipyretic Agent in Terai Region of Western Nepal
Authors: Singh Anant Gopal
Published: September 2013

The study was conducted during 2009-2011 using semi-structured, open-ended questionnaires, informal interviews, and group discussions with traditional healers and senior citizens having thorough knowledge about plants and plant based remedies. During present study ten phytotherapeutic practices for management of different types of fever using 50 plant species as antipyretic agent were identified and documented. These species may be used for the development of new, cheap, and effective antipyretic agent of herbal origin. Further investigation of these plant species for herbal antipyretic agents will require safety and efficacy testing. There is an urgent need to formulate suitable conservation strategies for wildly growing medicinal plants to overcome their depletion from natural resources.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ijasbt.v1i3.8383Int J Appl Sci Biotechnol, Vol. 1(3) 2013 : 118-126
Countering Supervisor Exploitation
Authors: Martin Brian
Published: September 2013

Some academic supervisors take undue credit for the work of their research students, causing damage to their careers and morale. Students should consider whether to acquiesce, leave, complain, or resist. Students should be prepared for supervisor tactics of cover-up, devaluation, reinterpretation, official channels, and intimidation. Options for addressing exploitation include prevention, negotiation, building support, and exposure.
Casting a Wider Net: Understanding the “Root” Causes of Human-Induced Soil Erosion
Authors: Whitecraft Michele , Jr. Bruce
Published: September 2013

Although science has helped us to identify and measure the threat of soil erosion to food production, we need to cast a wider net for effective solutions. Honest assessment suggests, in fact, that this kind of eco-agri-cultural issue exceeds the traditional boundaries of scientific interest. The issue of soil erosion spills out so many ways that it demands a holistic interdisciplinary approach. In this paper we explore a systems “in context” approach to understanding soil erosion built upon the interplay of Aristotle’s virtues of episteme, techne, and phronesis. We model the synergy of collaboration, where diverse ways of knowing, learning and being in the world can offer proactive soil conservation strategies—those that occur from the inside-out—instead of reactive policies, from the outside-in. We show how positivist scientific attitudes could well impede conservation efforts insofar as they can inhibit educational pedagogies meant to reconnect us to nature. In so doing, we make the ultimate argument that disparate fields of knowledge have much to offer each other and that the true synergy in solutions to soil erosion will come from the intimate interconnectedness of these different ways of knowing, learning and being in the world.
Hepatitis E Virus: Foodborne, Waterborne and Zoonotic Transmission
Authors: Yugo Danielle , Meng Xiang-Jin
Published: September 2013

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is responsible for epidemics and endemics of acute hepatitis in humans, mainly through waterborne, foodborne, and zoonotic transmission routes. HEV is a single-stranded, positive-sense RNA virus classified in the family Hepeviridae and encompasses four known Genotypes (1–4), at least two new putative genotypes of mammalian HEV, and one floating genus of avian HEV. Genotypes 1 and 2 HEVs only affect humans, while Genotypes 3 and 4 are zoonotic and responsible for sporadic and autochthonous infections in both humans and several other animal species worldwide. HEV has an ever-expanding host range and has been identified in numerous animal species. Swine serve as a reservoir species for HEV transmission to humans; however, it is likely that other animal species may also act as reservoirs. HEV poses an important public health concern with cases of the disease definitively linked to handling of infected pigs, consumption of raw and undercooked animal meats, and animal manure contamination of drinking or irrigation water. Infectious HEV has been identified in numerous sources of concern including animal feces, sewage water, inadequately-treated water, contaminated shellfish and produce, as well as animal meats. Many aspects of HEV pathogenesis, replication, and immunological responses remain unknown, as HEV is an extremely understudied but important human pathogen. This article reviews the current understanding of HEV transmission routes with emphasis on food and environmental sources and the prevalence of HEV in animal species with zoonotic potential in humans.
Inhibition of Oxidative Stress by Low-Molecular-Weight Polysaccharides with Various Functional Groups in Skin Fibroblasts
Authors: Chen Szu-Kai , Hsu Chu-Hsi , Tsai Min-Lang , Chen Rong-Huei , Drummen Gregor
Published: September 2013

The aim of this study was to evaluate the in cellulo inhibition of hydrogen-peroxide-induced oxidative stress in skin fibroblasts using different low-molecular-weight polysaccharides (LMPS) prepared from agar (LMAG), chitosan (LMCH) and starch (LMST), which contain various different functional groups (i.e., sulfate, amine, and hydroxyl groups). The following parameters were evaluated: cell viability, intracellular oxidant production, lipid peroxidation, and DNA damage. Trolox was used as a positive control in order to allow comparison of the antioxidant efficacies of the various LMPS. The experimentally determined attenuation of oxidative stress by LMPS in skin fibroblasts was: LMCH > LMAG > LMST. The different protection levels of these LMPS may be due to the physic-chemical properties of the LMPS’ functional groups, including electron transfer ability, metal ion chelating capacities, radical stabilizing capacity, and the hydrophobicity of the constituent sugars. The results suggest that LMCH might constitute a novel and potential dermal therapeutic and sun-protective agent.
Modes of Neighbouring Group Participation by the Methyl Selenyl Substituent in β-Methylselenylmethyl-substituted 1-Phenylethyl Carbenium Ions
Authors: Harris Benjamin , White Jonathan
Published: September 2013

Selenium substituents which are disposed β to an electron deficient centre, such as a carbocation p-orbital, or the π* orbital of an electron deficient p-system, interact in a stabilising way by a combination of C-Se hyperconjugation (σSe-C–π* interaction), and a through-space homoconjugative nSe–π* interaction. The relative importance of these two modes of interaction is dependant on the electron demand of the cation, with hyperconjugation predominating for low electron demand systems, and the nSe–π* interaction predominating for high electron demand cations.
Lipid Classes and Fatty Acid Regiodistribution in Triacylglycerols of Seed Oils of Two Sambucus Species (S. nigra L. and S. ebulus L.)
Authors: Dulf Francisc , Oroian Ioan , Vodnar Dan , Socaciu Carmen , Pintea Adela
Published: September 2013

The oil content and fatty acid composition of total lipids (TLs) and main lipid classes (NLs- neutral and PLs- polar lipids) in seeds of two wild Sambucus species (S. nigra and S. ebulus) from Transylvania (Romania) were determined by capillary gas chromatography (GC-MS). In addition, the positional distribution of fatty acids in seed triacylglycerols (TAGs) was determined by hydrolysis with pancreatic lipase. The seeds were found to be rich in fat (22.40–24.90 g/100g) with high amounts of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) ranging from 68.96% (S. ebulus) to 75.15% (S. nigra). High ratios of PUFAs/SFAs (saturated fatty acids), ranging from 7.06 (S. nigra) to 7.64 (S. ebulus), and low ratios of n-6/n-3, ranging from 0.84 (S. nigra) to 1.51 (S. ebulus), were determined in both oils. The lipid classes/subclasses analyzed (PLs, MAGs—monoacylglycerols, DAGs—diacylglycerols, FFAs—free fatty acids, TAGs and SEs—sterol esters) were separated and identified using thin-layer chromatography. The fatty acid compositions of the TAG fractions were practically identical to the profiles of TLs, with the same dominating fatty acids in both analyzed species. SEs and FFAs, were characterized by high proportions of SFAs. The sn-2 position of TAGs was esterified predominantly with linoleic acid (43.56% for S. nigra and 50.41% for S. ebulus).
A Comparative Analysis of the Influence of Human Salivary Enzymes on Odorant Concentration in Three Palm Wines
Authors: Lasekan Ola
Published: September 2013

The influence of human salivary enzymes on palm wines’ odorant concentrations were investigated by the application of aroma extracts dilution analysis (AEDA) and by the calculation of odour activity values (OAVs), respectively. The odorants were quantified by means of stable isotope dilution assays (SIDA), and the degradation profiles of odorants by human saliva were also studied. Results revealed 46 odour-active compounds in the flavour dilution (FD) factor range of 4-256, and all were subsequently identified. Of the 46 odorants, 41 were identified in the Elaeis guineensis wine, 36 in Raphia hookeri wine and 29 in Borassus flabellifer wine. Among the odorants, the highest FD-factors were obtained from acetoin, 2-acetyl-1-pyrroline and 3-isobutyl-2-methoxypyrazine. Among the 13 potent odorants identified, five aroma compounds are reported here as important contributors to palm wine aroma, namely 3-isobutyl-2-methoxy-pyrazine, acetoin, 2-acetyl-1-pyrroline, 3-methylbutylacetate and ethyl hexanoate. Meanwhile, salivary enzymic degradation of odorants was more pronounced among the aldehydes, esters and thiols.
Evaluation of Clear-Sky Incoming Radiation Estimating Equations Typically Used in Remote Sensing Evapotranspiration Algorithms
Authors: Sun Zhigang , Gebremichael Mekonnen , Wang Qinxue , Wang Junming , Sammis Ted , Nickless Alecia
Published: September 2013

Net radiation is a key component of the energy balance, whose estimation accuracy has an impact on energy flux estimates from satellite data. In typical remote sensing evapotranspiration (ET) algorithms, the outgoing shortwave and longwave components of net radiation are obtained from remote sensing data, while the incoming shortwave (RS) and longwave (RL) components are typically estimated from weather data using empirical equations. This study evaluates the accuracy of empirical equations commonly used in remote sensing ET algorithms for estimating RS and RL radiation. Evaluation is carried out through comparison of estimates and observations at five sites that represent different climatic regions from humid to arid. Results reveal (1) both RS and RL estimates from all evaluated equations well correlate with observations (R2 ≥ 0.92), (2) RS estimating equations tend to overestimate, especially at higher values, (3) RL estimating equations tend to give more biased values in arid and semi-arid regions, (4) a model that parameterizes the diffuse component of radiation using two clearness indices and a simple model that assumes a linear increase of atmospheric transmissivity with elevation give better RS estimates, and (5) mean relative absolute errors in the net radiation (Rn) estimates caused by the use of RS and RL estimating equations varies from 10% to 22%. This study suggests that Rn estimates using recommended incoming radiation estimating equations could improve ET estimates.
Damage to Buildings in Large Slope Rock Instabilities Monitored with the PSInSAR™ Technique
Authors: Frattini Paolo , Crosta Giovanni , Allievi Jacopo
Published: September 2013

The slow movement of active deep-seated slope gravitational deformations (DSGSDs) and deep-seated rockslides can cause damage to structures and infrastructures. We use Permanent Scatterers Synthetic Aperture Radar Interferometry (PSInSAR™) displacement rate data for the analysis of DSGSD/rockslide activity and kinematics and for the analysis of damage to buildings. We surveyed the degree of damage to buildings directly in the field, and we tried to correlate it with the superficial displacement rate obtained by the PSInSAR™ technique at seven sites. Overall, we observe that the degree of damage increases with increasing displacement rate, but this trend shows a large dispersion that can be due to different causes, including: the uncertainty in the attribution of the degree of damage for buildings presenting wall coatings; the complexity of the deformation for large phenomena with different materials and subjected to differential behavior within the displaced mass; the absence of differential superficial movements in buildings, due to the large size of the investigated phenomena; and the different types of buildings and their position along the slope or relative to landslide portions.
Disabled People and the Post-2015 Development Goal Agenda through a Disability Studies Lens
Authors: Wolbring Gregor , Mackay Rachel , Rybchinski Theresa , Noga Jacqueline
Published: September 2013

The purpose of this study was to examine the role and visibility of disabled people in the discourses of various global policy processes related to sustainable development and the Post-2015 development agenda. This article makes several recommendations for strengthening the role of disabled people in these discourses. The research addresses the question of how the disability community and sustainable development community relate to each other in these discourses. This study provides quantitative and qualitative data on three aspects of the relationship. One set of data highlights who is seen as a stakeholder in general and the visibility of disabled people in the social sustainability, sustainable consumption, Rio+20 and Post-2015 development agenda proposals discourses and what participants of the online consultation for a disability inclusive development agenda towards 2015 and beyond had to say about the issues of visibility of disabled people in development discourses. A second set of data illuminates the attitudes towards disabled people evident in the SD discourses including through the eyes of the participant of the online consultation for a disability inclusive development agenda towards 2015 and beyond. The final set of data compares the goals and actions seen as desirable for the advancement of SD evident in the SD literature covered and the online consultation for a disability inclusive development agenda towards 2015 and beyond. This study interpreted the data through a disability studies lens. The study found that disabled people were barely visible to invisible in the SD literature covered, that the goals and actions proposed in the SD discourses are of high relevance to disabled people but that these discussions have generally not been explicitly linked to disabled people. It found further that disabled people have clear ideas why they are invisible, what the problems with development policies are and what needs to happen to rectify the problems. It found also that there was a lack of visibility of various SD areas and goals within the disability discourse. This paper provides empirical data that can be used to further the goal of mainstreaming of disabled people into the SD and Post-2015 development discourses as asked for in various high-level UN documents. However, we posit that the utility of our paper goes beyond the disability angle. Our quantitative data also highlights other forms of social group visibility unevenness in the literature and as such, we argue that the data we present in this paper is also of use for other stakeholders such as youth, women and indigenous people and also for NGOs and policy makers.
Diagnosis of West Nile Virus Human Infections: Overview and Proposal of Diagnostic Protocols Considering the Results of External Quality Assessment Studies
Authors: Sambri Vittorio , Capobianchi Maria , Cavrini Francesca , Charrel Rémi , Donoso-Mantke Olivier , Escadafal Camille , Franco Leticia , Gaibani Paolo , Gould Ernest , Niedrig Matthias , Papa Anna , Pierro Anna , Rossini Giada , Sanchini Andrea , Tenorio Antonio , Varani Stefania , Vázquez Ana , Vocale Caterina , Zeller Herve
Published: September 2013

West Nile virus, genus Flavivirus, is transmitted between birds and occasionally other animals by ornithophilic mosquitoes. This virus also infects humans causing asymptomatic infections in about 85% of cases and <1% of clinical cases progress to severe neuroinvasive disease. The virus also presents a threat since most infections remain unapparent. However, the virus contained in blood and organs from asymptomatically infected donors can be transmitted to recipients of these infectious tissues. This paper reviews the presently available methods to achieve the laboratory diagnosis of West Nile virus infections in humans, discussing the most prominent advantages and disadvantages of each in light of the results obtained during four different External Quality Assessment studies carried out by the European Network for ‘Imported’ Viral Diseases (ENIVD).
DNA-Encoded Flagellin Activates Toll-Like Receptor 5 (TLR5), Nod-like Receptor Family CARD Domain-Containing Protein 4 (NRLC4), and Acts as an Epidermal, Systemic, and Mucosal-Adjuvant
Authors: Nyström Sanna , Bråve Andreas , Falkeborn Tina , Devito Claudia , Rissiek Björn , Johansson Daniel , Schröder Ulf , Uematsu Satoshi , Akira Shizuo , Hinkula Jorma , Applequist Steven
Published: September 2013

Eliciting effective immune responses using non-living/replicating DNA vaccines is a significant challenge. We have previously shown that ballistic dermal plasmid DNA-encoded flagellin (FliC) promotes humoral as well as cellular immunity to co-delivered antigens. Here, we observe that a plasmid encoding secreted FliC (pFliC(-gly)) produces flagellin capable of activating two innate immune receptors known to detect flagellin; Toll-like Receptor 5 (TLR5) and Nod-like Receptor family CARD domain-containing protein 4 (NRLC4). To test the ability of pFliC(-gly) to act as an adjuvant we immunized mice with plasmid encoding secreted FliC (pFliC(-gly)) and plasmid encoding a model antigen (ovalbumin) by three different immunization routes representative of dermal, systemic, and mucosal tissues. By all three routes we observed increases in antigen-specific antibodies in serum as well as MHC Class I-dependent cellular immune responses when pFliC(-gly) adjuvant was added. Additionally, we were able to induce mucosal antibody responses and Class II-dependent cellular immune responses after mucosal vaccination with pFliC(-gly). Humoral immune responses elicited by heterologus prime-boost immunization with a plasmid encoding HIV-1 from gp160 followed by protein boosting could be enhanced by use of pFliC(-gly). We also observed enhancement of cross-clade reactive IgA as well as a broadening of B cell epitope reactivity. These observations indicate that plasmid-encoded secreted flagellin can activate multiple innate immune responses and function as an adjuvant to non-living/replicating DNA immunizations. Moreover, the capacity to elicit mucosal immune responses, in addition to dermal and systemic properties, demonstrates the potential of flagellin to be used with vaccines designed to be delivered by various routes.
Avatares del tiempo histórico en dos poetas nicaragüenses de hoy : Ernesto Cardenal y Pablo Antonio Cuadra
Authors: Pailler Claire
Published: September 2013

Se estudia, en los textos de los dos poetas nicaragüenses Pablo Antonio Cuadra y Ernesto Cardenal, el recurso al tiempo de los mitos primordiales por la actualización de la figura del héroe fundador y, paralelamente la proyección de una situación histórica presente a una perspectiva escatológica, en la que el fin de los tiempos es también el fin y el cumplimiento del Tiempo.
Encapsulation of Mesenchymal Stem Cells by Bioscaffolds Protects Cell Survival and Attenuates Neuroinflammatory Reaction in Injured Brain Tissue after Transplantation
Authors: Sarnowska Anna , Jablonska Anna , Jurga Marcin , Dainiak Maria , Strojek Lukasz , Drela Katarzyna , Wright Kathleen , Tripathi Anuj , Kumar Ashok , Jungvid Hans , Lukomska Barbara , Forraz Nico , McGuckin Colin , Domanska-Janik Krystyna
Published: September 2013

Since the brain is naturally inefficient in regenerating functional tissue after injury or disease, novel restorative strategies including stem cell transplantation and tissue engineering have to be considered. We have investigated the use of such strategies in order to achieve better functional repair outcomes. One of the fundamental challenges of successful transplantation is the delivery of cells to the injured site while maintaining cell viability. Classical cell delivery methods of intravenous or intraparenchymal injections are plagued by low engraftment and poor survival of transplanted stem cells. Novel implantable devices such as 3D bioactive scaffolds can provide the physical and metabolic support required for successful progenitor cell engraftment, proliferation, and maturation. In this study, we performed in situ analysis of laminin-linked dextran and gelatin macroporous scaffolds. We revealed the protective action of gelatin–laminin (GL) scaffolds seeded with mesenchymal stem cells derived from donated human Wharton's jelly (hUCMSCs) against neuroinflammatory reactions of injured mammalian brain tissue. These bioscaffolds have been implanted into (i) intact and (ii) ischemic rat hippocampal organotypic slices and into the striatum of (iii) normal and (iv) focally injured brains of adult Wistar rats. We found that transplantation of hUCMSCs encapsulated in GL scaffolds had a significant impact on the prevention of glial scar formation (low glial acidic fibrillary protein) and in the reduction of neuroinflammation (low interleukin-6 and the microglial markers ED1 and Iba1) in the recipient tissue. Moreover, implantation of hUCMSCs encapsulated within GL scaffolds induced matrix metalloproteinase-2 and -9 proteolytic activities in the surrounding brain tissue. This facilitated scaffold biodegradation while leaving the remaining grafted hUCMSCs untouched. In conclusion, transplanting GL scaffolds preseeded with hUCMSCs into mammalian brain tissue escaped the host's immune system and protected neural tissue from neuroinflammatory injury. This manuscript is published as part of the International Association of Neurorestoratology (IANR) supplement issue of Cell Transplantation.
Transplantation of Human Adipose Tissue-Derived Stem Cells Delays Clinical Onset and Prolongs Life Span in ALS Mouse Model
Authors: Kim Kwang S. , Lee Hong J. , An Jin , Kim Yun B. , Ra Jung Chan , Lim Inja , Kim Seung U.
Published: September 2013

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a neurodegenerative disease that selectively affects motor neurons in the cortex, brain stem, and spinal cord. The precise pathogenic mechanism remains unknown, and there is currently no effective therapy. We evaluated the therapeutic effects of human adipose tissue-derived stem cells (ASCs) in an animal model of ALS. Human abdominal subcutaneous fat tissues were obtained by simple liposuction from donors, and ASCs were isolated from the fat stromal vascular fraction. ASCs were found to differentiate into adipocytes, chondrocytes, osteocytes, and neurons. SOD1G93A ALS mice were divided into three groups: sham, intravenous (IV), and intracerebroventricular (ICV) groups. Human ASCs were transplanted in the ALS mice at 70 postnatal days before the appearance of clinical symptoms. Behavior of transplanted animals was assessed by rotarod test, paw grip endurance (PaGE), and reflex index. Mice in every group were sacrificed after 4 weeks posttransplantation. Transplanted ASCs were identified in the lumbar spinal cords with an antihuman mitochondria antibody and cell type-specific markers for neurons or astrocytes. Delayed onset of clinical symptoms (26 days) and extended survival of animals (24 days) were observed in ALS mice transplanted with ASCs via ICV route. ASCs were found to secrete high levels of neurotrophic factors such as NGF, BDNF, IGF-1, and VEGF. Reduction of apoptotic cell death by these factors was confirmed in cultured CNS cells and in the ALS spinal cord. These results indicate that transplantation of ASCs in ALS mice provides neuroprotective effects by production of cytokines/growth factors, delays disease progression, and prolongs the life span of ALS mice.
ETdAnalyser
Authors: Loureiro Isabel F. , Leão Celina P. , Costa Fábio , Teixeira José , Arezes Pedro M.
Published: September 2013

Ergonomic Tridimensional Analysis (ETdA) is a new ergonomic approach that makes possible the identification and description of several ergonomic contexts defined by common areas where clients or consumers are subject to similar activities normally carried out by professionals. The development of this decision tool includes several steps, such as conceptualization of the problem, definition of the three ETdA dimensions and observation tools, data collection, and weighting the results leading to ergonomic intervention proposal. The software, named ETdAnalyser, is proposed to provide the ergonomist or analyst a fast and simple way of collecting and analysing data. This system is considered to be a decision-making support tool for ergonomic intervention, representing a relevant contribution to the advance of the ergonomics field.
Promoting Human-Computer Interaction and Usability Guidelines and Principles Through Reflective Journal Assessment
Authors: Issa Tomayess , Isaias Pedro
Published: September 2013

This chapter aims to examine the challenges to, and opportunities for, promoting Human Computer Interaction (HCI) and usability guidelines and principles through reflective journal assessment by information systems students from the Australian and Portuguese higher education sectors. In order to raise students’ awareness of HCI and aspects of usability, especially in the Web development process, a new unit was developed by the first researcher called Information Systems 650 (IS650) in Australia. From this unit was derived the Web Site Planning and Development (WSPD) course introduced in Portugal. The reflective journal assessment approach was employed to enhance students' learning and knowledge of HCI and its usability aspects. This study provides empirical evidence from 64 students from Australia and Portugal, based on quantitative and qualitative data derived from three sources: students’ formal and informal feedback and an online survey. Students confirmed that the use of reflective journal assessment consolidated their understanding of HCI and usability guidelines and principles and improved their reading, searching, researching, and writing skills, and their proficiency with the endnote software.
Validation of conceptual hydro-salinity model (Cirfle) for the irrigated area of Kalaat El Andalous in Tunisia
Authors: Ferjani Noura , Daghari Hedi
Published: September 2013

A simulation study of the volume of water, salt concentrations and loads in irrigation return flows was carried out in the irrigated area of Kalaât El Andalous during three hydrologic years (2007/2008, 2008/2009 and 2009/2010) using a Conceptual Irrigation Return Flow hydro-salinity model considering the Leaching Efficiency of salts (CIRFLE). Results show that the measured and calculated values are in good agreement. Scenario-analysis for management variable (irrigated area) and environmental parameters (precipitation) were performed. A good correlation between measured and calculated values was observed specially in the case of an average year (487 mm). Results show that in the case of wet year (800 mm), leaching of soil is operated naturally. So the leaching fraction can be reduced. However, if rainfall is low, there is a risk of salts accumulation in soil. In an average year (rainfall = 500 mm), if we project to irrigate the entire area (2905 ha), the water volume of surface irrigation return flow becomes very important (16. 106 m3). In such situation, the salt concentration of drainage water is increased by 12% and the mass of salts removed is very high (106 801 tons). In this case, there will be no risk of salinization. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4038/jas.v8i3.6068 The Journal of Agricultural Sciences, 2013, vol.8, no3 p. 107-121
Heterosis in F1 generations of two Indica rice crosses for growth and yield characteristics
Authors: Perera U I P , Bentota A P , Ratnasekara D , Senanayake S G J N
Published: September 2013

Rice (Oryza sativa L.) is the main food crop for more than half of the world population. Use of heterosis is one of the greatest practical achievements of plant breeding. Two single crosses, Bg 379-2 x Mu 8-7 (Cross 1) and Bg 379-2 x Bw 400 (Cross 2) were chosen to study the heterosis and genetic effects in yield related agronomic characters of rice. F1 hybrids along with their parents were evaluated in a Randomized Complete Block Design with four replicates. Cross 1 showed significant heterobeltiosis for leaf width (LW), panicle length (PL) and plant height (PH) while Cross 2 showed significant heterobeltiosis for LW, culm length (CL), and PH. Additive genetic effect is higher than the dominance effect in days to 50% flowering (DF), CL and panicles per plant (PP) in Cross 1, while dominance effect is higher than the additive genetic effect in seedling height, LW, CL and PH in Cross 2. Bg 379-2 x Mu 8-7 is a more potential cross that agreed with breeding objectives, especially to extract short age high yielding breeding lines. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4038/jas.v8i3.6082 The Journal of Agricultural Sciences, 2013, vol.8, no3 p. 136-141
Transformasie, partisipasie en pluraliteit – die Kappadosiese erfenis vir die Sistematiese Teologie in die derde millennium
Authors: Van Wyk Tanya
Published: September 2013

Transformation, participation and plurality: The Cappadocian heritage for Systematic Theology in the third millennium. The aim of this article is to demonstrate how Systematic Theology in the third millennium utilises facets from the legacy of the Cappadocian fathers. The focal point is the influence on present-day Trinitarian theology. Aspects which are discussed include matters of metaphysics, philosophy, morality and spirituality. The influence of the legacy of the Cappadocian fathers concerns the challenge which diversity and plurality create in systematic theology. This legacy is explored by means of the ‘lived experiences’ of the life stories of the Cappadocians. These narratives illustrate a shift from the ‘impersonal’ to the ‘personal’, from ‘disengaged abstraction’ to ‘relational participation’. The latter is referred to as ‘a pastoral doctrine of the Trinity’ by Paul S. Fiddes. The emphasis on ‘economical ontology’ confirms the Cappadocians’ relevance for a present-day ethical discourse and the ‘aesthetics of a feeling for the Other’.
Resident Scholarship Expectations and Experiences: Sources of Uncertainty as Barriers to Success
Authors: Ledford Christy J. W. , Seehusen Dean A. , Villagran Melinda M. , Cafferty Lauren A. , Childress Marc A.
Published: September 2013

Background

Scholarly activity during residency is vital to resident learning and ultimately to patient care. Incorporating that activity into training is, however, a challenge for medical educators. Most research on medical student and resident attitudes toward scholarly activity to date has been quantitative and has focused on level of interest, desire to perform scholarship, and perceived importance of scholarship.

Objective

We explored attitudes, expectations, and barriers regarding participation in scholarly activity among current residents and graduates of a single family medicine residency program.

Methods

Using a phenomenologic approach, we systematically analyzed data from one-on-one, semistructured interviews with residents and graduates. Interviews included participant expectations and experiences with scholarly activity in residency.

Results

The 20 participants (residents, 15 [75%]; residency graduates, 5 [25%]) identified uncertainty in their attitudes toward, and expectations regarding, participation in scholarly activity as an overarching theme, which may present a barrier to participation. Themes included uncertainty regarding their personal identity as a clinician, time to complete scholarly activity, how to establish a mentor-mentee relationship, the social norms of scholarship, what counted toward the scholarship requirements, the protocol for completing projects, and the clinical relevance of scholarship.

Conclusions

Uncertainty about scholarly activity expectations can add to learner anxiety and make performing scholarly activity during residency seem like an insurmountable task. Programs should consider implementing a variety of strategies to foster scholarly activity during residency, including clarifying and codifying expectations and facilitating mentoring relationships with faculty.
What big size you have! Using effect sizes to determine the impact of public health nursing interventions
Authors: McMorris B.J. , Raynor L.A. , Monsen K. A. , Johnson K. E.
Published: September 2013

Background: The Omaha System is a standardized interface terminology that is used extensively by public health nurses in community settings to document interventions and client outcomes. Researchers using Omaha System data to analyze the effectiveness of interventions have typically calculated p-values to determine whether significant client changes occurred between admission and discharge. However, p-values are highly dependent on sample size, making it difficult to distinguish statistically significant changes from clinically meaningful changes. Effect sizes can help identify practical differences but have not yet been applied to Omaha System data.

Methods: We compared p-values and effect sizes (Cohen’s d) for mean differences between admission and discharge for 13 client problems documented in the electronic health records of 1,016 young low-income parents. Client problems were documented anywhere from 6 (Health Care Supervision) to 906 (Caretaking/parenting) times.

Results: On a scale from 1 to 5, the mean change needed to yield a large effect size (Cohen’s d 0.80) was approximately 0.60 (range = 0.50 – 1.03) regardless of p-value or sample size (i.e., the number of times a client problem was documented in the electronic health record).

Conclusions: Researchers using the Omaha System should report effect sizes to help readers determine which differences are practical and meaningful. Such disclosures will allow for increased recognition of effective interventions.
Multiannual changes of CO2 emissions in China: indirect estimates derived from satellite measurements of tropospheric NO2 columns
Authors: Berezin E. V. , Konovalov I. B. , Ciais P. , Richter A. , Tao S. , Janssens-Maenhout G. , Beekmann M. , Schulze E.-D.
Published: September 2013

Abstract. Multiannual satellite measurements of tropospheric NO2 columns are used for evaluation of CO2 emission changes in China in the period from 1996 to 2008. Indirect top-down annual estimates of CO2 emissions are derived from the satellite NO2 column measurements by means of a simple inverse modeling procedure involving simulations performed with the CHIMERE mesoscale chemistry–transport model and the CO2-to-NOx emission ratios from the Emission Database for Global Atmospheric Research (EDGAR) global anthropogenic emission inventory and Regional Emission Inventory in Asia (REAS). Exponential trends in the normalized time series of annual emissions are evaluated separately for the periods from 1996 to 2001 and from 2001 to 2008. The results indicate that the both periods manifest strong positive trends in the CO2 emissions, and that the trend in the second period was significantly larger than the trend in the first period. Specifically, the trends in the first and second periods are best estimated to be in the range from 3.7 to 8.3 and from 11.0 to 13.2% per year, respectively, taking into account statistical uncertainties and differences between the CO2-to-NOx emission ratios from the EDGAR and REAS inventories. Comparison of our indirect top-down estimates of the CO2 emission changes with the corresponding bottom-up estimates provided by the EDGAR (version 4.2) and Global Carbon Project (GCP) glomal emission inventories reveals that while acceleration of the CO2 emission growth in the considered period is a common feature of both kinds of estimates, nonlinearity in the CO2 emission changes may be strongly exaggerated in the global emission inventories. Specifically, the atmospheric NO2 observations do not confirm the existence of a sharp bend in the emission inventory data time series in the period from 2000 to 2002. A significant quantitative difference is revealed between the bottom-up and indirect top-down estimates of the CO2 emission trend in the period from 1996 to 2001 (specifically, the trend was not positive according to the global emission inventories, but is strongly positive in our estimates). These results confirm the findings of earlier studies that indicated probable large uncertainties in the energy production and other activity data for China from international energy statistics used as the input information in the global emission inventories. For the period from 2001 to 2008, some quantitative differences between the different kinds of estimates are found to be in the range of possible systematic uncertainties associated with our estimation method. In general, satellite measurements of tropospheric NO2 are shown to be a useful source of information on CO2 sources collocated with sources of nitrogen oxides; the corresponding potential of these measurements should be exploited further in future studies.
Impacts of different plant functional types on ambient ozone predictions in the Seoul Metropolitan Areas (SMA), Korea
Authors: Kim H.-K. , Woo J.-H. , Park R. S. , Song C. H. , Kim J.-H. , Ban S.-J. , Park J.-H.
Published: September 2013

Abstract. Plant functional type (PFT) distributions affect the results of biogenic emission modeling as well as O3 and PM simulations using chemistry-transport models (CTMs). This paper analyzes the variations of both surface biogenic VOC emissions and O3 concentrations due to changes in the PFT distributions in the Seoul Metropolitan Areas, Korea. Also, this paper attempts to provide important implications for biogenic emissions modeling studies for CTM simulations. MM5-MEGAN-SMOKE-CMAQ model simulations were implemented over the Seoul Metropolitan Areas in Korea to predict surface O3 concentrations for the period of 1 May to 31 June 2008. Starting from MEGAN biogenic emissions analysis with three different sources of PFT input data, US EPA CMAQ O3 simulation results were evaluated by surface O3 monitoring datasets and further considered on the basis of geospatial and statistical analyses. The three PFT datasets considered were "(1)KORPFT", developed with a region specific vegetation database; (2) CDP, adopted from US NCAR; and (3) MODIS, reclassified from the NASA Terra and Aqua combined land cover products. Comparisons of MEGAN biogenic emission results with the three different PFT data showed that broadleaf trees (BT) are the most significant contributor, followed by needleleaf trees (NT), shrub (SB), and herbaceous plants (HB) to the total biogenic volatile organic compounds (BVOCs). In addition, isoprene from BT and terpene from NT were recognized as significant primary and secondary BVOC species in terms of BVOC emissions distributions and O3-forming potentials in the study domain. Multiple regression analyses with the different PFT data (δO3 vs. δPFTs) suggest that KORPFT can provide reasonable information to the framework of MEGAN biogenic emissions modeling and CTM O3 predictions. Analyses of the CMAQ performance statistics suggest that deviations of BT areas can significantly affect CMAQ isoprene and O3 predictions. From further evaluations of the isoprene and O3 prediction results, we explored the PFT area-loss artifact that occurs due to geographical disparity between the PFT and leaf area index distributions, and can cause increased bias in CMAQ O3. Thus, the PFT-loss artifact must be a source of limitation in the MEGAN biogenic emission modeling and the CTM O3 simulation results. Time changes of CMAQ O3 distributions with the different PFT scenarios suggest that hourly and local impacts from the different PFT distributions on occasional inter-deviations of O3 are quite noticeable, reaching up to 10 ppb. Exponentially diverging hourly BVOC emissions and O3 concentrations with increasing ambient temperature suggest that the use of representative PFT distributions becomes more critical for O3 air quality modeling (or forecasting) in support of air quality decision-making and human health studies.