bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genetic Variability and Control of Nodal Root Angle in Sorghum
Authors: Singh Vijaya , van Oosterom Erik J. , Jordan David R. , Hunt Colleen H. , Hammer Graeme L.
Published: August 2011

Sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] is a major dryland cereal crop in environments with low and unpredictable rainfall. Root angle at the seedling stage can potentially influence root architecture and hence adaptation to drought. The aims of this study were to investigate the extent of genetic variation in nodal root angle of sorghum and to quantify the general combining ability (GCA) and specific combining ability (SCA) for the trait. A diverse range of inbred lines and hybrids was grown in custom‐made containers in a glasshouse. Plants were harvested when six leaves had fully expanded and encompassing angle of first flush of nodal roots (relative to vertical), leaf area, and root and shoot dry weight were determined for each plant. Nodal root angle ranged from 15 to 50° for inbred lines and 14 to 43° for hybrids and had a moderately high heritability (47%) in inbred lines. However, significant interaction between male and female parents in hybrids indicated significant SCA. Variation in nodal root angle was independent of variation in plant size (shoot and root weight and leaf area). Variability in plant size among hybrids was associated with the female parent (p < 0.001) and resulted in significant GCA. Screening and selection for nodal root angle should not be affected by potential differences in plant size between inbred lines and hybrids, although the significant SCA would limit predictability of root angle in hybrids based on the root angle of the parental inbred lines.
Elevated Palmitate and Stearate Concentrations in the Oil of Low‐Phytate Soybean Lines
Authors: Gill John R. , Fehr Walter R.
Published: August 2011

The combination of low phytate (LP) and low saturated fatty esters in a soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] cultivar could improve the availability of inorganic phosphorus (Pi) in livestock rations and improve the nutrition of the oil used in human diets. Previous studies indicated that lines with the lpa1 and lpa2 alleles for LP and the fap1(C1726) and fap3(A22) alleles for reduced palmitate had greater palmitate plus stearate (saturate) concentrations than normal‐phytate (NP) lines. The objective of our study was to evaluate possible causes of the association between LP and saturate concentration. Low‐phytate and NP F3 individuals and their progeny were evaluated from three single‐cross populations segregating for Lpa1, lpa1, Lpa2, and lpa2 and homozygous for fap1(C1726) and fap3(A22). The mean palmitate, stearate, and saturate concentrations of the LP lines were significantly greater than the NP lines in all the populations. The frequency of F3:4 lines with a saturate concentration of ≤70 g kg−1 averaged across populations was 8% for the LP lines and 74% for the NP lines. The elevated saturates was not attributable to genetic factors linked to lpa1 or lpa2 but was associated with a greater concentration of Pi in LP individuals. The apparent relationship between elevated Pi and elevated saturate concentrations would hinder the development of LP cultivars with low saturated fatty esters.
Comparison of Enhanced‐Efficiency Nitrogen Fertilizers for Reducing Ammonia Loss and Improving Bermudagrass Forage Production
Authors: Connell J. A. , Hancock D. W. , Durham R. G. , Cabrera M. L. , Harris G. H.
Published: August 2011

The efficacy of enhanced‐efficiency (EE) nitrogen (N) fertilizer formulations in reducing N loss and improving the efficiency of urea‐based fertilizer products in forage production is unclear. This study compared ammonium nitrate (AN), urea, four EE urea N formulations [N‐(n‐butyl) thiophosphoric triamide (NBPT)–treated urea, NBPT and dicyanamide–treated urea, a polymer‐coated urea (PCU), and a maleic‐itaconic copolymer–treated urea (MICPU)], urea–ammonium nitrate (UAN), and two EE UAN formulations (NBPT‐treated UAN, NBPT and dicyanamide–treated UAN) in forage bermudagrass [Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers.] production. The experimental design was a randomized complete block design with four replications in each of two sites and 2 yr (2008–2009). Treatment applications were made at the rate of 168 kg N ha−1 spring dormancy‐break (ca. 30 April) and after the second harvest (ca. 25 July; total of 336 kg N ha−1 season). Response variables included trapped ammonia (NH3) and forage yield, production efficiency, N concentration, N uptake, recovery of applied N, and nitrate concentration. Urea treated with NBPT reduced NH3 volatilization and, in some situations, increased agronomic response relative to urea. Addition of NBPT produced results similar to AN and UAN, and it was never detrimental relative to untreated urea. The MICPU treatment was ineffectual relative to urea alone. The PCU reduced NH3 volatilization and improved N concentration in the forage but did not improve other agronomic characteristics. Use of UAN solutions produced results that were generally intermediate in response between urea and ammonium nitrate and were not improved by NBPT addition. Adding NBPT can reduce NH3 volatilization and increase the efficiency of urea, but further research is necessary to understand the limits of this additive.
Long-term study of migration of volatile organic compounds from cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) pipes and effects on drinking water quality
Authors: Lund Vidar , Anderson-Glenna Mary , Skjevrak Ingun , Steffensen Inger-Lise
Published: August 2011

The objectives of this study were to investigate migration of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) pipes used for drinking water produced by different production methods, and to evaluate their potential risk for human health and/or influence on aesthetic drinking water quality. The migration tests were carried out in accordance with EN-1420-1, and VOCs were analysed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The levels of VOC migrating from new PEX pipes were generally low, and decreasing with time of pipe use. No association was found between production method of PEX pipes and concentration of migration products. 2,4-di-tert-butyl phenol and methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE) were two of the major individual components detected. In three new PEX pipes, MTBE was detected in concentrations above the recommended US EPA taste and odour value for drinking water, but decreased below this value after 5 months in service. However, the threshold odour number (TON) values for two pipes were similar to new pipes even after 1 year in use. For seven chemicals for which conclusions on potential health risk could be drawn, this was considered of no or very low concern. However, odour from some of these pipes could negatively affect drinking water for up to 1 year.
Private Schools and Residential Choices: Accessibility, Mobility, and Welfare
Authors: Hanushek Eric A , Sarpça Sinan , Yilmaz Kuzey
Published: August 2011

Private schools free households from a strict link between residential location decisions and the tax-school quality bundles they consume. In order to study the impact of private schools on educational outcomes, we develop a general equilibrium model that simultaneously incorporates locational choice built on access and locational choice built on tax-school quality attributes of jurisdictions. We conclude that private school choice enhances the welfare of all households—both those attending private schools and those attending public schools—while also working to reduce the amount of housing and school segregation in equilibrium. Investigation of alternative school policies indicates that greater choice, including using targeted school vouchers, can improve welfare and achievement. Finally, we demonstrate how the fiscal burden arising from some households paying less taxes than they consume in public services varies significantly with the structure of school choice options.
Measurement of the midpalatal suture width
Authors: Fricke-Zech Susanne , Gruber Rudolf M. , Dullin Christian , Zapf Antonia , Kramer Franz-Josef , Kubein-Meesenburg Dietmar , Hahn Wolfram
Published: August 2011

Objective:

To conduct a pilot study to investigate the potentiality to determine the midpalatal sutural width radiographically with a flat-panel volume computed tomography (fpVCT) in a porcine model.

Materials and Methods:

Bone samples from the midpalatal suture of five young (16 weeks) and five old (200 weeks) sus scrofa domestica were gathered. The midpalatal suture width was measured via fpVCT and compared to respective histological preparations. Results with P < .05 were considered significant.

Results:

The data obtained by fpVCT and by histomorphometric analysis reveal a highly significant age dependency of the measured suture width (both P < .0001), with lower suture width values in older subjects compared to the younger group. The averaged suture widths measured in the fpVCT images shows a distinctively higher mean compared to the histomorphometric data with high statistical significance (P < .0001). The evaluated difference between both methods was almost constant.

Conclusion:

fpVCT is a powerful tool for determining midpalatal sutural width.
Remarks to the validity of Genbank sequences of Myxobolus spp. (Myxozoa, Myxosporidae) infecting Eurasian fishes
Authors: Molnár Kálmán
Published: August 2011

Of the 850 known Myxobolus spp., 89 named species have DNA (in most cases 18S rDNA) sequences deposited in the Genbank. Only a part of the deposited sequences represent well identified samples collected from adequate organs of the original hosts. Some of the samples were collected from additional hosts or from fishes genetically far standing from the type-host. In the paper, reliability of sequences of some best known Myxobolus spp., deposited in the Genbank from freshwater fishes of Eurasia’s Palaearctic Region, are surveyed. Genbank sequences are classified into three groups. Sequences obtained from morphologically well characterised Myxobolus spp., which were collected from the type hosts, compose the group of valid sequences. To the group of probable valid sequences belong samples from spores morphologically corresponding to the original description, but collected from fishes closely related to the type-host; while sequences obtained from hosts genetically far standing from the type-hosts represent the category of the un-valid group.
Phylogenetic studies explain the discrepant host distribution of Allopodocotyle heronensis sp. nov. (Digenea, Opecoelidae) in Great Barrier Reef serranids
Authors: Downie Abigail , Cribb Thomas
Published: August 2011

We report a new species of Allopodocotyle Pritchard, 1966 from the intestine of two species of Serranidae, Cromileptes altivelis and Epinephelus fuscoguttatus, from the southern Great Barrier Reef. Despite the examination of eight other species of Epinephelus from the same region this species appears anomalous in its distribution in one species of Epinephelus and the single species of Cromileptes. Molecular phylogenetic studies of the Epinephelinae suggest, however, that these two species are closely related so that the host specificity demonstrated by this species is actually stenoxenic (phylogenetically related hosts) rather than euryxenic.
Aerodynamic and thermal characteristics of a maxwell type vortex tube
Authors: Rahman S. , Mujumdar A.
Published: August 2011

A three-dimensional (3D) computational fluid dynamic simulation of a vortex tube is carried out to examine its flow and thermal characteristics. The aim of this work is to model the performance of the vortex tube and to capture the highly swirling compressible flow behavior inside the tube for an understanding of the well known temperature separation process. Simulations were carried out using the standard k-ɛ, k-omega, RNG k-ɛ and swirl RNG k-ɛk-ɛ turbulence models. An experimental setup was built and tested to validate the simulation results. The RNG k-ɛ turbulence model yielded better agreement between the numerical predictions and experimental data. This model captured well the essential features of the flow including formation of the outer vortex and the inner reverse vortex flow. Flow and geometric parameters that affect the flow behavior and energy separation are studied numerically. Effects of the inlet pressure, with and without an insert in the tube, are examined by numerical experiments.
Free Light Chains of Immunoglobulin as a Prognostic Factor for Some Plasmaproliferative Diseases
Authors: Mijušković Zoran , Radović Vesna , Pejović Janko , Tukić Ljiljana , Marjanović Slobodan , Stojanović Jelica
Published: August 2011

Free Light Chains of Immunoglobulin as a Prognostic Factor for Some Plasmaproliferative Diseases

Quantitation of monoclonal immunoglobulins and their fragments is used for monitoring the plasmaproliferative disease course and the effect of therapy. The aim of free light chains examination was to evaluate the significance of the FLC ratio as a prognostic factor for remission, progression and survival in different disease groups. The concentrations of immunoglobulins and free light chains were measured by an immunonephelometric method on a »SIEMENS« DADE BN II analyser with reagents (Freelite, The Binding Site, UK). In this examination 151 patients from 3 different disease groups: 1. Light chain disease or Bence Jones myeloma (37), 2. Biclonal gammopathy with FLC (23) and 3. Monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (91), were investigated during a period of 7 years. The reference interval for FLC ratio is 0.26-1.65. According to the International Staging System for multiple myeloma, a serum FLC ratio of <0.03 or >32 was taken as abnormal. The patients with light chain disease and biclonal gammopathy with FLC with an abnormal FLC ratio and a combination of adverse risk factors (76.7%) had median survival times of 22-30 months, versus patients with a normal or slightly varied FLC ratio without adverse risk factors (23.3%) with median survival times of 39-51 months. About 38% of patients who had shown lowered free light chains values by more than 50% under therapy, achieved disease remission in the light chain disease and biclonal gammopathy with FLC groups. In the group of patients with monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance, 66.0% had a normal or slightly modified FLC ratio which corresponds to low and low-intermediate risk of disease progression, as opposed to 34.0% with an abnormal FLC ratio (<0.25 or >4) which corresponds to high and high-intermediate risk. An abnormal FLC ratio in the examined groups could be an independent risk factor for progression and poorer disease prognosis.
Effects of DI-(2-Ethylhexyl) Phthalate on Rat Ovarian Function
Authors: Xu Cheng-kang , Wang Xiao-hong , Tang Shuang-bo
Published: August 2011

Effects of DI-(2-Ethylhexyl) Phthalate on Rat Ovarian Function

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of di-(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP) on estrous cycle, sex hormone levels and ovary histological features. A total of 80 female SD rats were randomly divided into 8 groups (n=10 per group): short-course control group, short-course low-dose group, short-course medium-dose group, and short-course high-dose group, long-course control group, long-course low-dose group, long-course medium-dose group and long-course high-dose group. Intragastrical DEHP was administrated at 1000 mg/kg/d (low dose), 2000 mg/kg/d (medium dose) and 3000 mg/kg/d (high dose) independently for 14 days (short course) or 28 days (long course). Rats in control groups were untreated. Vaginal smearing was used to detect the estrous cycle and rats were weighed at every Monday and Thursday to evaluate the growth status. At the end of study, rats were sacrificed and bilateral ovaries were obtained for histological examination. In addition, ELISA determined levels of serum progesterone, estradiol, testosterone, follicle stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone. DEHP treatment limited body weight gain (p<0.05), prolonged the estrous cycle (p<0.05), decreased the ovarian mass index (p<0.05) and ovarian weight. No evident degeneration, necrosis or other pathological features were found in the ovaries. The testosterone levels were decreased by DEHP treatment in a dose dependent manner. DEHP treatment could increase serum testosterone level, inhibit ovulation and prolong the estrous cycle of rats, exerting reproductive toxicity in a dose dependent manner. We speculate DEHP can affect the endocrine regulatory function of the ovary and limit the body weight gain, resulting in chronic toxicity.
Cardiovascular Mortality in Hemodialysis Patients: Clinical and Epidemiological Analysis
Authors: Petrović Dejan , Obrenović Radmila , Trbojević-Stanković Jasna , Majkić-Singh Nada , Stojimirović Biljana
Published: August 2011

Cardiovascular Mortality in Hemodialysis Patients: Clinical and Epidemiological Analysis

Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death in hemodialysis (HD) patients. The annual cardiovascular mortality rate in these patients is 9%, with left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy, ischemic heart disease and heart failure being the most prevalent causes of death. The aim of this study was to determine the cardiovascular mortality rate and estimate the influence of risk factors on cardiovascular mortality in HD patients. A total of 115 patients undergoing HD for at least 6 months were investigated. Initially a cross-sectional study was performed, followed by a two-year follow-up study. Beside the standard biochemical parameters, C-reactive protein (CRP), homocysteine, cardiac troponins (cTn) and the echocardiographic parameters of LV morphology and function (LV mass index, LV fractional shortening, LV ejection fraction) were determined. Results were analyzed using Cox regression analysis, Kaplan-Meier and Log-Rank tests. The average one-year cardiovascular mortality rate was 8.51%. Multivariate Cox regression analysis identified increased CRP, cTn T and I, and LV mass index as independent risk factors for cardiovascular mortality. Patients with cTnT > 0.10 ng/mL and CRP > 10 mg/L had significantly higher cardiovascular mortality risk (p < 0.01) than patients with cTnT > 0.10 ng/mL and CRP ≤ 10 mg/L and those with cTnT ≤ 0.10 ng/mL and CRP ≤ 10 mg/L (p < 0.01). HD patients with high cTnT and CRP have a higher cardiovascular mortality risk.
Cellular immune response of pigeons in the conditions of endotoxin fever and pyrogenic tolerance
Authors: Dudek K. , Bednarek D.
Published: August 2011

Cellular immune response of pigeons in the conditions of endotoxin fever and pyrogenic tolerance

The aim of this study was to investigate changes in selected parameters of cellular immune response in the conditions of endotoxin fever and pyrogenic tolerance in pigeons. On the first day of observation the experimental birds (n=18) were intravenously injected withEscherichia coliLPS at a dose of 10 μg/kg b.w., while the control animals (n=6) received apyrogenic physiological saline also in the form of injection. On the second and the third day of the experiment LPS was injected additionally at 24 h intervals. Four and a half hours after the saline and pyrogen administration blood samples were collected from the control and experimental pigeons. The following immunological assays were performed: WBC, leucogram and immunophenotyping of lymphocyte subsets in peripheral blood, i.e. CD 3+(T lymphocytes), CD 4+(T helper lymphocytes) and CD 8+(T suppressor/ cytotoxic lymphocytes) cells. In the conditions of endotoxin fever (i.e. after the first LPS injection) leucopenia, monocytopenia, heterophilia and eosinophilia were observed. Additionally, the immunophenotyping of peripheral blood lymphocytes indicated an increase in percentage of CD 3+, CD 4+and CD 8+cells in response to the single injection of LPS. In contrast, the consecutive injections of LPS, which created a pyrogenic tolerance effect, caused a decrease in WBC value, heteropenia, eosinopenia and lymphocytosis. Moreover, during this state an increase in percentage of CD 3+and CD 8+cells was demonstrated in contrast to the percentage of CD 4+lymphocytes. The general tendencies in cellular immune response of the affected pigeons in the conditions of endotoxin fever and pyrogenic tolerance aim at activation of defence mechanisms against LPS for its prompt elimination from the animal's organism.
A survey of anti-Ostertagia ostertagii antibody levels in bulk tank milk samples (BTM) in dairy herds in Lower Silesia Region (Poland)
Authors: Płoneczka-Janeczko K. , Piekarska J. , Rypuła K. , Mazurkiewicz M.
Published: August 2011

A survey of anti-Ostertagia ostertagii antibody levels in bulk tank milk samples (BTM) in dairy herds in Lower Silesia Region (Poland)

This work presents serological evidence of cattle ostertagiosis in the Lower Silesia Region (Poland), based on the measurement of antibodies in bulk tank milk (BTM) samples. It represents the first evidence of this parasite examined with the use of the ELISA test and milk samples in Poland. The prevalence of Ostertagia ostertagii antibodies was determined in BTM from 32 dairy cattle herds. Antibodies to O. ostertagii were demonstrated in all herds. The optical density ratio (ODR) varied from -0.088 to 1.024. The mean ODR value in the examined region was 0.53.
Isolation of an atypical pigeon paramyxovirus type 1 in Poland
Authors: Śmietanka K. , Minta Z.
Published: August 2011

Isolation of an atypical pigeon paramyxovirus type 1 in Poland

In this study, a pigeon paramyxovirus type 1 (PPMV-1) isolated from a flock of ornamental pigeons in Poland in 2010 is described. The PPMV-1/Poland/H2/10 isolate showed the amino acid sequence at the cleavage site of F2/F1 112KRQKRF117 i.e. typical of virulent strains. Despite having the monoclonal antibody binding pattern typical of pigeon variants PPMV-1 (antigenic group "P"), the Polish isolate clustered into genetic sublineage 4a, which is usually associated with PMV-1 isolated from poultry.
Treatment of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in dogs and cats
Authors: Malewska K. , Rychlik A. , Nieradka R. , Kander M.
Published: August 2011

Treatment of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in dogs and cats

The treatment of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) possesses numerous difficulties owing to the unclear etiology of the disease. This article overviews the drugs used in the treatment of IBD depending on the intensity of clinical symptoms (Canine Inflammatory Bowel Disease Activity Index and Canine Chronic Enterophaty Clinical Activity Index). Patients demonstrating mild symptoms of the disease are usually placed on an appropriate diet which may be combined with immunomodulative or probiotic treatment. In moderate progression of IBD, 5-aminosalicylic acid (mesalazine or olsalazine) derivatives may be administered. Patients showing severe symptoms of the disease are usually treated with immunosuppressive drugs, antibiotics and elimination diet. Since the immune system plays an important role in the pathogenesis of the disease, the advancements in biological therapy research will contribute to the progress in the treatment of canine and feline IBD in the coming years.
The influence of porcine pancreas digestion parameters and islet histomorphology on islet isolation outcome
Authors: Kinasiewicz J. , Sabat M. , Antosiak-Iwańska M. , Godlewska E. , Sitarek E. , Orłowski T.
Published: August 2011

The influence of porcine pancreas digestion parameters and islet histomorphology on islet isolation outcome

Transplantation of the pig islets of Langerhans is considered as the future treatment for patients suffering from type Idiabetes mellitus. Despite the adaptation of modified Ricordi method and highly purified collagenase, the results of pancreas digestions are precarious. Selection of proper donor and optimal digestion procedure are fundamental. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of pancreas procuring parameters on pig islets yield. The pancreata were harvested from 69 market sows weighting over 150 kg. After intraductal injection of cold collagenase solution pancreata were transported in UW solution or under conditions of two layer method (TLM). In laboratory pancreata were digested at 37°C according to Ricordi isolation method or stationary in the bottle. The particular parameters of isolation procedure were considered as substantial. Pig weight, volume of infused collagenase solution, TLM application and pancreas dividing before digestion positively affected islet yield. Additionally, the influence of pancreatic islet tissue histomorphology on isolation outcome was studied. Proper donor selection as well as adequate digestion parameters could improve pig islet recovery during islet isolation.
A New Benzofuran Glucoside from Ficus Tikoua Bur
Authors: Wei Shao-Peng , Luan Jie-Yu , Lu Li-Na , Wu Wen-Jun , Ji Zhi-Qin
Published: August 2011

From the water-soluble portion of the methanol extract of stems of Ficus tikoua Bur., a new benzofuran glucoside, named 6-carboxyethyl-5-hydroxybenzofuran 5-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (1), together with one known benzofuran glucoside (2) were isolated. Their structures were elucidated by 1D and 2D (1H-1H COSY, HMQC, and HMBC) NMR spectroscopy and HRMS techniques. The antioxidant activities of the isolated compounds were assayed based on the scavenging activities of DPPH free radical. Compounds 1 and 2 exhibited moderate antioxidant activities, and the IC50 values were 242.8 μg·mL−1 and 324.9 μg·mL−1, respectively.
Thermoresponsive Polymers for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Ward Mark A. , Georgiou Theoni K.
Published: August 2011

Thermoresponsive polymers are a class of “smart” materials that have the ability to respond to a change in temperature; a property that makes them useful materials in a wide range of applications and consequently attracts much scientific interest. This review focuses mainly on the studies published over the last 10 years on the synthesis and use of thermoresponsive polymers for biomedical applications including drug delivery, tissue engineering and gene delivery. A summary of the main applications is given following the different studies on thermoresponsive polymers which are categorized based on their 3-dimensional structure; hydrogels, interpenetrating networks, micelles, crosslinked micelles, polymersomes, films and particles.
Sustainable Development in Sweden – a success story
Authors: Ahlberg Malin
Published: August 2011

Résumé En Suède, le terme de « développement durable » est bien connu et est souvent utilisé comme leitmotiv dans diverses parties de la société. Depuis la Conférence sur l’environnement et le développement à Rio en 1992, le développement durable est devenu de plus en plus indispensable aux débats politiques et est même devenu un argument crucial dans les décisions managériales du secteur privé. En raison de la tradition de consensus politique de la Suède et du grand investissement des groupes d’intérêt dans la prise de décision politique, l’idée de développement durable comme concept politique global est arrivée sur un terrain fertile.
Quand un fonds de capital-risque “assemble” un acteur industriel
Authors: Schmitt Jean
Published: August 2011

Résumé Rachetée par Sofinnova, Sagem Mobiles, devenue Sagem Wireless, s’est séparée de ses usines et concentrée sur sa propriété intellectuelle. L’expertise et l’investissement de Sofinnova devraient lui permettre de devenir un leader mondial.
Preliminary analysis of the GIC Alberta groundwater data - a prospective data source for regional scale aquifer assessment
Authors: Wozniak P R J , Grasby S E , Chen Z
Published: August 2011

Groundwater data managed by The Groundwater Information Centre (GIC) of Alberta Environment are the most comprehensive source of hydrogeologic data in the province of Alberta. Preliminary analysis of the data's spatial distribution indicates the GIC data provide
relatively good sampling of Alberta's geology over 44% of the province. Hydraulic conductivity and water-types are aggregated by surficial and bedrock geology units mapped at different scales across the province. The data are presented in summary tables as an overview of the combined geologic
and hydrogeologic data. The hydrogeologic source data used to compile the tables are provided in an accompanying database and include: top of bedrock picks, wells classified as surficial and bedrock completions, static water-levels, and geochemistry data. Results indicate the data has potential for
differentiating hydrogeologic characteristics of aquifers in surficial materials and bedrock, and for identifying differences in the hydrogeologic properties of Alberta's mapped geology.
Efficacy of Dapoxetine in the Treatment of Premature Ejaculation
Authors: McMahon Chris G.
Published: August 2011

Introduction

Premature ejaculation (PE) is a common male sexual disorder which is associated with substantial personal and interpersonal negative psychological factors. Pharmacotherapy of PE with off-label antidepressant SSRI drugs is common. Development and regulatory approval of drugs specifically for the treatment of PE will reduce reliance on off-label treatments and serve to fill a unmet treatment need.

Aimml

To review evidence supporting the efficacy and safety of dapoxetine in the treatment of PE.

Methods

MEDLINE and the proceedings of major international and regional scientific meetings during the period 1994-2010 were searched for publications or abstracts using the word dapoxetine in the title, abstract or keywords. This search was then manually cross-referenced for all papers. This review encompasses studies of dapoxetine pharmacokinetics, animal studies, human phase 1, 2 and 3 efficacy and safety studies and drug-interaction studies.

Results

Dapoxetine is a potent selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitor, which is administered on-demand 1-3 hours prior to planned sexual contact. Dapoxetine is rapidly absorbed and eliminated, resulting in minimal accumulation and has dose-proportional pharmacokinetics, which are unaffected by multiple dosing. Dapoxetine 30 mg and 60 mg has been evaluated in 5 randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled studies in 6081 men aged > 18 years. Outcome measures included stopwatch-measured intravaginal ejaculatory latency time (IELT), Premature Ejaculation Profile (PEP) inventory items, clinical global impression of change (CGIC) in PE, and adverse events. Mean IELT, all PEP items and CGIC improved significantly with both doses of dapoxetine vs. placebo (P < 0.001 for all). The most common treatment related adverse effects included nausea (11.0% for 30 mg, 22.2% for 60 mg), dizziness (586% for 30 mg, 10.9% for 60 mg), and headache (5.6% for 30 mg, 8.8% for 60 mg), and evaluation of validated rated scales demonstrated no SSRI class-related effects with dapoxetine use.

Conclusion

Dapoxetine, as the first drug developed for PE, is an effective and safe treatment for PE and represents a major advance in sexual medicine.
Some Remarks on the Algebraic Sum of Ideals and Riesz Subspaces
Authors: Wnuk Witold
Published: August 2011

Following ideas used by Drewnowski and Wilansky we prove that if I is an infinite dimensional and infinite codimensional closed ideal in a complete metrizable locally solid Riesz space and I does not contain any order copy of ℝN then there exists a closed, separable, discrete Riesz subspace G such that the topology induced on G is Lebesgue, I ∩ G = {0}, and I + G is not closed.
The 11-13+6 Weeks Scan: Where do We Stand? A 5-year Review at Fernandez Hospital
Authors: Vavilala Suseela , Geeta K
Published: August 2011

Objective

To examine the clinical utility of 11-13+6 weeks scan for screening for chromosomal abnormalities and to assess the potential value of the same ultrasound examination in the early diagnosis of fetal structural anomalies.

Design

A prospective interventional study at Fetal Medicine Unit, Fernandez Hospital Pvt Ltd, a tertiary care perinatal center, Hyderabad, India, between September 2005 and March 2010.

Methods

All pregnant women < 13+6 weeks at booking are offered a routine obstetric scan between 11 and 13+6 weeks. All scans are done by obstetricians who are accredited by Fetal Medicine Foundation. All expectant mothers undergoing 11-13+6 weeks scan were included; all expectant mothers with antenatal booking after 14 weeks were excluded from the study.

Results

Between September 2005 and March 2010, a total of 11,012 scans were done between 11 and 13+6 weeks. Complete follow-up was available for 7,916 cases; 1,460 are ongoing pregnancies and 1,636 expectant mothers were lost to follow-up. The median maternal age in our population is 27 years and 340 (4.30%) mothers had advanced (> 35 years) maternal age. The median NT in our population is 1.58 mm. Increased nuchal translucency (NT > 95th percentile) was found in 362 (4.59%) scans. Miscarriages/abortions and termination of pregnancy were significantly higher in women whose fetus had an increased nuchal translucency thickness. Nuchal translucency thickness was significantly higher in women with advanced maternal age (ANOVA F = 0.002, Fishers exact test p-value for equality of medians = 0.04). Absent fetal nasal bones were present in 20 (5.57%) of women with increased NT compared to five (0.07%) women with normal NT. Among 7,916 women, 367 (4.64%) women were screen positive for chromosomal abnormalities. After counseling, only 40 screen-positive women accepted prenatal diagnostic procedures. Skull/brain abnormalities were found in 25 fetal images, abdominal abnormalities in 17, spinal abnormalities in eight, bladder abnormalities in five and cardiac abnormalities in five fetal images.

Conclusion

The 11-13+6 weeks ultrasound scan is an important diagnostic tool that should be offered to all pregnant women as a routine standard of antenatal care in the first trimester of pregnancy in India. However, as a screening tool, it mandates addition of cost-effective biochemical tests. To make the combined screening cost-effective, this study calls for making a national policy for Down's syndrome screening for India.
Analysis of 42 Cases of First Trimester Screening in a Private Set-up
Authors: Venkatraman Manasi , Dikshit Sameer , Gundavda Ketan
Published: August 2011

Combined NT and first trimester biochemistry for aneuploidy has become a standard practice. This study was conducted in a busy private clinic. The results of this study showed that this study can be successfully performed in a busy private clinic. The results of the combined screening match those of the conventional screening tests. Proper counseling help the women to take a decision towards invasive testing in screen positive cases.
Organização e representação de áreas do conhecimento em ciência e tecnologia: princípios de agregação em grandes áreas segundo diferentes contextos de produção e uso de informação
Authors: Souza Rosali Fernandez de
Published: August 2011

A Organização do Conhecimento é área tradicional de pesquisa e ensino em Ciência da Informação. Grande parte da literatura nesta área trata do processo, das atividades e dos instrumentos especialmente desenvolvidos no tratamento de documentos para armazenamento, disseminação, recuperação e uso em sistemas e serviços de informação. Os diferentes tipos e demandas de informação têm demonstrado a crescente diversidade em organização do conhecimento em outros contextos de aplicação. O presente trabalho é de natureza exploratória. Analisa exemplos de tabelas e esquemas de classificação em C&T com o objetivo de identificar agregações em nível de super-ordenação de áreas do conhecimento para diferentes necessidades de produção e uso de informação. Os instrumentos analisados foram: esquemas de classificação bibliográfica, tabelas de classificação de áreas do conhecimento para propósitos de comunicação em ciência, administração de programas de agências de fomento a para a produção de estatísticas nacionais. Apresenta também uma abordagem temática de classificação dos saberes no contexto da educação. Os resultados mostraram que há consenso na agregação de áreas em grandes áreas do conhecimento em C&T, embora ocorram diferenças no número e na ordem de apresentação das grandes áreas em função da natureza do objeto de representação, assim como da finalidade da organização do conhecimento.
La producción española en biblioteconomía y documentación (isi 1995-2005)
Authors: Grupo Scimago Grupo
Published: August 2011

La producción de un determinado país y una determinada disciplina en el ISI Web of Knowledge, es un claro indicador de la investigación de calidad que es capaz de generar ese país en esa disciplina. En el presente artículo se analiza la producción ISI española en la categoría “Information Science and Library Science” de los últimos once años (1995-2005). Se presentan datos de producción por revista, revistas citadas, producción/citación por instituciones y producción/citación por autor. Este trabajo es la actualización de un par de artículos anteriores que cubrían el periodo 1995-2004.
A computational method for determining XBT depths
Authors: Stark J. , Gorman J. , Hennessey M. , Reseghetti F. , Willis J. , Lyman J. , Abraham J.
Published: August 2011

Abstract. A new technique for determining the depth of expendable bathythermographs (XBTs) is developed. This new method combines a forward-stepping calculation which incorporates all of the forces on the XBT devices during their descent. Of particular note are drag forces which are calculated using a new drag coefficient expression. That expression, obtained entirely from computational fluid dynamic modeling, accounts for local variations in the ocean environment. Consequently, the method allows for accurate determination of depths for any local temperature environment. The results, which are entirely based on numerical simulation, are compared with an experimental descent of an LM-Sippican T-5 XBT. It is found that the calculated depths differ by less than 3 % from depth estimates using the industry standard FRE. Furthermore, the differences decrease with depth. The computational model allows an investigation of the fluid patterns along the outer surface of the probe as well as in the interior channel. The simulations take account of complex flow phenomena such as laminar-turbulent transition and flow separation.
Dural Arteriovenous Fistulas in the Cavernous Sinus: Clinical Research and Treatment
Authors: Kurata Akira , Suzuki Sachio , Iwamoto Kazuhisa , Nakahara Kuniaki , Sasaki Makoto , Kijima Chihiro , Inukai Madoka , Abe Katsutoshi , Niki Jun , Satou Kimitoshi , Fujii Kiyotaka , Kan Shinichi
Published: August 2011

Introduction. The purpose of this paper is to clarify the clinical course, with the dural carotid cavernous fistula (CCF), featuring a pallet of symptoms, paying special attention to radiological findings. Methods. Seventy-six consecutive patients with dural CCFs were investigated in detail, all of whom were defined by angiography. Results. The most common initial symptom was diplopia in 47 patients (62%) and the most frequently observed on arrival were type II, featuring cranial nerve palsies followed by the classical triad in 27, and then type I only with cranial nerve palsies. The time until admission with type I (mean: ) was significantly shorter than that with type II (mean: ). Branches from bilateral carotid arteries widely inflowing into bilateral carotid cavernous sinus were present in 30 (39%), 20 (26%) of which also demonstrated direct inflow into the intercavernous sinus. type I and II had more multiple venous drainage routes as compared with type III (classical triad only on arrival) and IV (initial development of the classical triad followed by cranial nerve palsy). Conclusion. In our series of dural CCF patients, the most common initial symptom was cranial nerve palsy, mostly featuring multiple venous drainage including cortical drainage. Such palsies should be added to the classical triad as indicative symptoms. Bilateral carotid arteries often inflow into cavernous and intercavernous sinuses, which should be taken into account in choice of therapeutic strategy.
Prevalence of War-Related Mental Health Conditions and Association With Displacement Status in Postwar Jaffna District, Sri Lanka
Authors: Husain Farah , Anderson Mark , Lopes Cardozo Barbara , Becknell Kristin , Blanton Curtis , Araki Diane , Kottegoda Vithana Eeshara
Published: August 2011

Context

Nearly 2.7 million individuals worldwide are internally displaced (seeking refuge in secure areas of their own country) annually by armed conflict. Although the psychological impact of war has been well documented, less is known about the mental health symptoms of forced displacement among internally displaced persons.

Objectives

To estimate the prevalence of the most common war-related mental health conditions, symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression, and to assess the association between displacement status and these conditions in postwar Jaffna District, Sri Lanka.

Design, Setting, and Participants

Between July and September 2009, a cross-sectional multistage cluster sample survey was conducted among 1517 Jaffna District households including 2 internally displaced persons camps. The response rate was 92% (1448 respondents, 1409 eligible respondents). Two percent of participants (n = 80) were currently displaced, 29.5% (n = 539) were recently resettled, and 68.5% (n = 790) were long-term residents. Bivariable analyses followed by multivariable logistic regression models were performed to determine the association between displacement status and mental health.

Main Outcome Measures

Symptom criteria of PTSD, anxiety, and depression as measured by the Harvard Trauma Questionnaire and the Hopkins Symptom Checklist–25.

Results

The overall prevalences of symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, and depression were 7.0% (95% confidence interval [CI], 5.1%-9.7%), 32.6% (95% CI, 28.5%-36.9%), and 22.2% (95% CI, 18.2%-26.5%), respectively. Currently displaced participants were more likely to report symptoms of PTSD (odds ratio [OR], 2.71; 95% CI, 1.28-5.73), anxiety (OR, 2.91; 95% CI, 1.89-4.48), and depression (OR, 4.55; 95% CI, 2.47-8.39) compared with long-term residents. Recently resettled residents were more likely to report symptoms of PTSD (OR, 1.96; 95% CI, 1.11-3.47) compared with long-term residents. However, displacement was no longer associated with mental health symptoms after controlling for trauma exposure.

Conclusion

Among residents of Jaffna District in Sri Lanka, prevalence of symptoms of war-related mental health conditions was substantial and significantly associated with displacement status and underlying trauma exposure.
Design and application of a steam temperature optimizer in a combined cycle
Authors: Nevado Antonio , Martín Isaías , Mur Francisco
Published: August 2011

This paper presents the application of an adaptive predictive control system, entitled ‘Steam Temperature Optimizer’ (STO), in the combined cycle of the Empresa Nacional de Electricidad SA at Barranco de Tirajana in the Canary Islands. This combined cycle comprises two gas turbines of 70 MW each, two recovery boilers, and one steam turbine also of 70 MW. The STO was applied to the control of the temperature of the high‐pressure recovery boilers and integrated in parallel with the plant's distributed control system by means of object linking and embedding for process control communication. The STO control strategies, designed to deal with the specific attemperation control problems and plant instrumentation limitations, are presented and the experimental results analyzed in comparison with those obtained by the existing PID‐based system. The STO improved significantly the control precision and the stability of the steam temperature and confirmed adaptive predictive control as a reliable self‐tuning methodology for this kind of process. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Borderline personality traits and adult attention‐deficit hyperactivity disorder symptoms: A genetic analysis of comorbidity
Authors: Distel Marijn A. , Carlier Angela , Middeldorp Christel M. , Derom Catherine A. , Lubke Gitta H. , Boomsma Dorret I.
Published: August 2011

Previous research has established the comorbidity of adult Attention‐Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) with different personality disorders including Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD). The association between adult ADHD and BPD has primarily been investigated at the phenotypic level and not yet at the genetic level. The present study investigates the genetic and environmental contributions to the association between borderline personality traits (BPT) and ADHD symptoms in a sample of 7,233 twins and siblings (aged 18–90 years) registered with the Netherlands Twin Register and the East Flanders Prospective Twin Survey (EFPTS) . Participants completed the Conners' Adult ADHD Rating Scales (CAARS‐S:SV) and the Personality Assessment Inventory‐Borderline Features Scale (PAI‐BOR). A bivariate genetic analysis was performed to determine the extent to which genetic and environmental factors influence variation in BPT and ADHD symptoms and the covariance between them. The heritability of BPT and ADHD symptoms was estimated at 45 and 36%, respectively. The remaining variance in BPT and ADHD symptoms was explained by unique environmental influences. The phenotypic correlation between BPT and ADHD symptoms was estimated at r = 0.59, and could be explained for 49% by genetic factors and 51% by environmental factors. The genetic and environmental correlations between BPT and ADHD symptoms were 0.72 and 0.51, respectively. The shared etiology between BPT and ADHD symptoms is thus a likely cause for the comorbidity of the two disorders. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
PDGFR‐α inhibition preserves blood‐brain barrier after intracerebral hemorrhage
Authors: Ma Qingyi , Huang Bin , Khatibi Nikan , Rolland William , Suzuki Hidenori , Zhang John H. , Tang Jiping
Published: August 2011

Objective:

Perihematomal edema results from disruption of the blood‐brain barrier (BBB) by key mediators, such as thrombin, following intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). Platelet‐derived growth factor receptor alpha (PDGFR‐α), a tyrosine kinase receptor, was found in previous studies to play a role in orchestrating BBB impairment. In the present study, we investigated the role of PDGFR‐α following ICH‐induced brain injury in mice, specifically investigating its effect on BBB disruption.

Methods:

Brain injury was induced by autologous arterial blood (30μl) or thrombin (5U) injection into mice brains. A PDGFR antagonist (Gleevec) or agonist (PDGF‐AA) was administered following ICH. PDGF‐AA was injected with a thrombin inhibitor, hirudin, in ICH mice. Thrombin‐injected mice were given Gleevec or PDGF‐AA neutralizing antibody. A p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) inhibitor, SB203580, was delivered with PDGF‐AA in naïve animals. Postassessment included neurological function tests, brain edema measurement, Evans blue extravasation, immunoprecipitation, western blot, and immunohistology assay.

Results:

PDGFR‐α suppression prevented neurological deficits, brain edema, and Evans blue extravasation at 24 to 72 hours following ICH. PDGFR‐α activation led to BBB impairment and this was reversed by SB203580 in naïve mice. Thrombin inhibition suppressed PDGFR‐α activation and exogenous PDGF‐AA increased PDGFR‐α activation, regardless of thrombin inhibition. Animals receiving a PDGF‐AA–neutralizing antibody or Gleevec showed minimized thrombin injection–induced BBB impairment.

Interpretation:

PDGFR‐α signaling may contribute to BBB impairment via p38 MAPK‐mediated matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activation/expression following ICH, and thrombin may be the key upstream orchestrator. The therapeutic interventions targeting the PDGFR‐α signaling may be a novel strategy to prevent thrombin‐induced BBB impairment following ICH. ANN NEUROL 2011;70::920–931