bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A late-stage hydrothermal phosphate-bearing montmorillonite argillitization from the tourmaline-bearing pegmatite of Alto dos Quintos Mine, northeast Brazil
Authors: Dill H. G. , Kaufhold S. , Dohrmann R.
Published: September 2011

The Alto dos Quintos Mine, Rio Grande do Norte, northeast region of Brazil, is one of the few mines where a LCT (Li-Cs-Ta-enriched) pegmatite is exploited for the deep blue gemstone called “Paraiba Tourmaline (PT)”. Blue cuprian elbaite, a fault-bound pink montmorillonite bearing some relict apatite and newly-formed Ca-Al-phosphate of the Al-P-sulphate group (APS minerals) also occur in the underground mine. The montmorillonite was studied using extended clay mineralogical tools (XRD, IR spectroscopy, XRF, SEM-EDX, cation exchange capacity (CEC), DTA). The structural formula method for calculation of the smectite formula based on EDX data yielded an extremely Fe-poor montmorillonite: (Ca0.22+)(Al1.7Fe0.0Mg0.4)(Si3.8Al0.2). The charge on the tetrahedral sheets accounts for approximately 30% of the total permanent negative charge. However, based on the more precise Hofmann & Klemen test, tetrahedral charge values of 11% to 13% were calculated. This is indicative of the dominance of montmorillonite rather than beidellite among the smectite minerals, which is independently proved by a pronounced IR band at 630 cm-1. The formation of pink montmorillonite is not directly related to the emplacement of the Li-bearing PT pegmatite. The sheet silicate developed after a considerable hiatus (Mesozoic?), when the Neoproterozoic pegmatites had already undergone different stages of hypogene (cookeite) and supergene (illite, kaolinite) alteration, during which Li was flushed out to a degree that formation conditions of expandable Li-bearing phyllosilicates were no longer favoured. The nature of the pinkish tint is not yet clarified. The montmorillonite formed in a temperature regime close to 250°C, when apatite was transformed into Ca-bearing APS minerals under acidic conditions. Cainozoic volcanic activity and the reactivation of deep-seated fault zones are considered to be responsible for the formation of this pink P-bearing montmorillonitic clay.
Fluorescence and phase transitions of Mg-Al-Eu ternary layered double hydroxides – dependence on annealing
Authors: Chen Yufeng , Zhou Songhua , Li Fei , Wei Junchao , Dai Yanfeng , Chen Yiwang
Published: September 2011

Fluorescence and phase transitions of a new Mg-Al-Eu ternary layered double hydroxide (LDH) and their dependence on thermal treatment were studied for the first time. Phase transitions occurred as the temperature increased from 400 to 1100°C. The process of phase transition is discussed in detail. The emissions of Eu3+ions described by the5D0–7FJtransition (J = 1,2,3,4), and especially for the5D0–7FJtransition (J = 1,2) varied markedly with phase transformations from LDH, MgO, to mixtures of MgO and MgAl2O4. Moreover,strong emissions of Eu3+ions are present in these new host materials. These results indicate that Mg-Al-Eu ternary LDH may be a potential candidate for materials applied in fluorescent devices.
Validation of the flow-through chamber (FTC) and steady-state (SS) methods for clearance rate measurements in bivalves
Authors: Larsen Poul S. , Riisgård Hans Ulrik
Published: September 2011

To obtain precise and reliable laboratory clearance rate (filtration rate) measurements with the ‘flow-through chamber method’ (FTC) the design must ensure that only inflow water reaches the bivalve's inhalant aperture and that exit flow is fully mixed. As earlier recommended these prerequisites can be checked by a plot of clearance rate (CR) versus increasing through-flow (Fl) to reach a plateau, which is the true CR, but we also recommend to plot percent particles cleared versus reciprocal through-flow where the plateau becomes the straight line CR/Fl, and we emphasize that the percent of particles cleared is in itself neither a criterion for valid CR measurement, nor an indicator of appropriate ‘chamber geometry’ as hitherto adapted in many studies. For the ‘steady-state method’ (SS), the design must ensure that inflow water becomes fully mixed with the bivalve's excurrent flow to establish a uniform chamber concentration prevailing at its incurrent flow and at the chamber outlet. These prerequisites can be checked by a plot of CR versus increasing Fl, which should give the true CR at all through-flows. Theoretically, the experimental uncertainty of CR for a given accuracy of concentration measurements depends on the percent reduction in particle concentration (100×P) from inlet to outlet of the ideal ‘chamber geomety’. For FTC, it decreases with increasing values of P while for SS it first decreases but then increases again, suggesting the use of an intermediate value of P. In practice, the optimal value of P may depend on the given ‘chamber geometry’. The fundamental differences between the FTC and the SS methods and practical guidelines for their use are pointed out, and new data on CR for the blue mussel, Mytilus edulis, illustrate a design and use of the SS method which may be employed in e.g. long-term growth experiments at constant algal concentrations.
Hormone replacement therapy: 1815.84 woman-years of follow-up main clinical events
Authors: Cortés-Prieto Joaquín , Vicente-Hernanz Maria Lina , Cortés-García Ana , Ahern Hugh
Published: September 2011

Background: One hundred and eighty-five women with a mean age of 50.71 (SD=5.58) years upon initiation of treatment were studied before, and during, treatment.

Materials and methods: Included in the profile of patients under study were family and personal histories, gynecological and breast examinations. Population age: a) <60 years old, 171 women (92.43%), and b) aged 60 years or older, 14 women (7.57%). Dosage comprised both 0.625 mg/daily orally of conjugated equine estrogens and 2.5 or 5 mg/daily of medroxy progesterone acetate. No further specific treatment was prescribed. Mean duration of treatment was 9.82 (SD=5.42) years for all women; 9.70 (SD=5.44) in the younger group. Follow-up comprised 1815.84 woman-years, for 5 years or over (76.75%) on 142 women. Fifty-two women (28.11%) dropped out.

Results: No deaths occurred during treatment. Four cardiovascular events (2.16%) were reported. No spontaneous bone fracture was documented. Nonetheless, there were 12 bone fractures of traumatic origin (6.48%), none of them hip fractures. Five breast cancers were observed. Likewise, one diagnosis of breast cancer for every 37 treated women from our series was evidenced. There were 117 women (63.24%) without any events.

Conclusion: A higher risk of breast cancer or of serious cardiovascular events cannot be inferred from statistical analysis of 5 years or more of treatment.
On the approximations of derivatives of integrated semigroups. II
Authors: Li Miao , Morozov Vladimir , Piskarev Sergey
Published: September 2011

This paper is devoted to the regularization in the process of approximation of values of unbounded operators in Banach spaces. More precisely, we consider the approximations of unbounded generators ofC0-semigroups and integrated semigroups. We consider M. M. Lavrentiev's method. Some iterative procedures are also investigated. It is shown that in general Banach spaces the approximation of the values of unbounded operators converges in strong sense. The presentation is given in the abstract framework of the discrete approximation scheme, which includes finite element methods, finite difference schemes and projection methods.
Frömmigkeit und Herrschaft, Wonne und Weg. Landschaften in der Literatur des Mittelalters
Authors: Brall-Tuchel Helmut
Published: September 2011

This contribution examines the relationship between human beings and landscape in selected medieval texts. Literary concepts of landscape appear innately bound up with human experiences that lend expression to religious, political and aesthetic convictions. The religious appropriations of landscape revolve around cosmological ideas for or against life in this world in political contexts, landscape functions as a medium of power for the legitimisation of rule, or as an apocalyptic backdrop. Courtly poetry exploits certain details of landscape to symbolise the status of individuals in society or the condition of society itself. In accounts of pilgrimage, the sense of landscape is reduced to a consideration of the accessibility of holy sites and the measurable distance of the journey.
Annäherung an die Natur. Bilder der Landschaft bei Boccaccio
Authors: Neumeister Sebastian
Published: September 2011

In the works of Giovanni Boccaccio (1313–1375) we find various descriptions of Italian landscapes and gardens. They include arcadian and allegorical sceneries, well arranged gardens, beautiful landscape sceneries and even panoramas of wild nature. Unlike Petrarch Boccaccio shows himself capable of focussing on nature without any signifying intention or interpretation, thus placing himself, inspite of his medieval heritage, at the threshold of modernity.
Immediate Loading of Maxillary and Mandibular Implant-Supported Fixed Complete Dentures: A 1- to 10-Year Retrospective Study
Authors: Ji Ting-Jen , Kan Joseph Y. K. , Rungcharassaeng Kitichai , Roe Phillip , Lozada Jaime L.
Published: September 2011

This study evaluated the success rates of 50 full-arch maxillary and/or mandibular implant-supported fixed complete dentures. After a mean follow-up time of 42.1 months, 269 implants remained in function, which corresponded to cumulative implant success rates of 85.2% and an absolute success rate of 90.6% (269/297 implants). This study suggested that higher implant failure rates might be associated with a dental history of bruxism (29.3%) vs no history of bruxism (4.6%) and surgeons with limited experience (≤5 years; 12.2%) vs surgeons with experience (2.4%).
Differential Effects of Amelogenin on Mineralization of Cementoblasts and Periodontal Ligament Cells
Authors: Tanimoto Kotaro , Kunimatsu Ryo , Tanne Yuki , Huang Yu‐Ching , Michida Masahiko , Yoshimi Yuki , Miyauchi Mutsumi , Takata Takashi , Tanne Kazuo
Published: September 2011

Background: Amelogenin is a major component of developing extracellular enamel matrix proteins and plays a crucial role during the formation of tooth enamel. In addition, amelogenins are suggested to exert biologic functions as signaling molecules through cell‐surface receptors. The purpose of this study is to examine the effect of recombinant human full‐length amelogenin (rh174) on the mineralization of human cementoblasts (HCEMs) and human periodontal ligament cells (HPDLs).

Methods: HCEMs, namely, a cell line immortalized by transfection of human telomerase reverse transcription gene, and HPDLs isolated from human first premolars were cultured and treated with 0 to 1,000 ng/mL rh174. The messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) levels of alkaline phosphatase (ALP), osteocalcin (OCN), and bone sialoprotein (BSP) were examined by real‐time polymerase chain reaction analysis. The protein levels of OCN and BSP were examined by Western blot analysis. ALP activity and calcium deposition of cell cultures were also determined. Mineralization of cells was evaluated by red dye staining.

Results: The treatment of HCEMs with rh174 upregulated the ALP, OCN, and BSP mRNA levels. In addition, the protein levels of OCN and BSP, ALP activity, and calcium deposition were enhanced, resulting in enhanced mineralization. Conversely, there were no significant effects of rh174 on the mineralization of HPDLs.

Conclusion: The present study shows that rh174 enhances mineralization accompanied by upregulation of mineralization markers in HCEMs, whereas it has no effect on that in HPDLs, suggesting different effects of amelogenin on PDL and cementum.
Effect of Mechanical Debridement on Distal Periodontal Aspects of Second Molars After the Extraction of Third Molars: A Systematic Review
Authors: Ramírez Valeria , Marró Patricio , López Rodrigo
Published: September 2011

Background: The risk of periodontal defects after the extraction of third molars continues to challenge clinicians.

Methods: Intervention trials, including subgingival scaling and/or root planing, were systematically reviewed. Data sources included the Cochrane Oral Health Group Trials Register and MEDLINE. The primary outcome was postoperative change in pocket probing depth (PD).

Results: The electronic search yielded 751 abstracts, and manual searching added one study. From them, four trials fulfilled the inclusion criteria and were selected for review. The overall sample size of the studies was small, ranging from 15 to 30 participants. Only one trial was considered to present with low risk for bias in the sequence generation, the concealment of allocation to treatment, and the strategy for masking. The lack of information provided by the authors of the remaining studies resulted in unclear or high risk of bias for the chief dimensions of trial quality. The heterogeneity of the studies did not allow the use of meta‐analysis to summarize the results of several studies. Preliminary evidence originating from a small study suggests that ultrasonic root debridement of the second molar and a three‐visit plaque control program may have a beneficial effect on PD levels on the second molar.

Conclusion: The available intervention trials on this topic have important limitations, and, consequently, there is insufficient evidence to recommend the use of mechanical debridement of second molars after the extraction of third molars.
Seed quality effects on seedling emergence, plant stand establishment and grain yield in two-row barley
Authors: RAJALA A. , NISKANEN M. , ISOLAHTI M.
Published: September 2011

Seed viability and vigour play important roles in seedling emergence, plant stand establishment and yield potential. The majority of cereal fields in Finland are typically sown with farm saved seed (FSS). If the quality of the seed is not known, there can be insidious yield reduction. This research was conducted to study the effects of seed quality on seedling emergence rate, seedling number and yielding capacity. The study comprised three-year field experiments conducted during 20072009, established at three sites: Jokioinen, Nousiainen and Ylistaro. Spring barley cultivars Saana (2007) and Annabell (2008-2009) were sown at rate of 500 germinating seeds m-2. Five seed lots were included as treatments: farm saved seed (FSS); downgraded seed 2.7 mm); upgraded seed >2.7 mm with disinfection (FSS>2.7 mm + dis); and commercial certified seed with disinfection (CCS). Up- and down-graded seed lots (FSS2.7 mm, and FSS>2.7 mm + dis) all originated from the FSS. Seedling emergence rate was measured from the time when coleoptiles started to break through the soil surface. The number of seedlings (3 × 1 m row per plot) was recorded at five-day intervals four times from the same rows. Plots were harvested at physiological maturity and grain yield (kg ha-1), hectolitre weight (HLW, kg) single grain weight (SGW, mg) and grain protein content (%) were recorded. Seed lots of CCS and FSS>2.7 mm + dis enhanced seedling emergence rate and increased the number of plants compared with other treatments. These two seed lots also produced the highest grain yield and had the lowest grain protein. Seed quality had an apparent effect on plant stand establishment and grain yield. A seed lot effect was evident despite identical targeted sowing rates that took into account germination rate and seed weight. Therefore, differences in seedling emergence and yielding capacity were likely outcomes of variation in seed vigour among the five treatments.;
Improved extraction of prolamins for gluten detection in processed foods
Authors: KANERVA P. , SONTAG-STROHM T. , BRINCK O.
Published: September 2011

A problem in gluten analysis has been inconsistent extractability of prolamins, particularly from processed foods consisting of unknown portions of prolamins from wheat, barley, and rye. This study aimed at improving the extraction of prolamins for immunological analysis, regardless of the cereal species and the production process. The prolamins were extracted with varying concentrations of ethanol, 1-propanol, and 2-propanol. Sodium dodecyl sulphate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and Western blotting were applied to study the protein composition of the extracts and the antibody recognition of the prolamin subgroups. We characterized the affinities of prolamin-specific antibodies that are used in gluten analysis against the prolamin groups that were soluble in 40% 1-propanol. The antibody R5 recognized more abundantly the medium-molecular weight groups, including polymeric proteins, and less the high-molecular weight groups than the anti-ù-gliadin antibody. In the present study, the prolamins were most efficiently extracted by 40% 1-propanol with 1% dithiothreitol at 50 °C . The prolamins were extracted from processed bread samples with efficiency similar to that from untreated meal samples.;
Quality assurance of the Serbian national E-PRTR register reported data for large combustion plants
Authors: Savic Marina , Redzic Nebojsa , Jovanovic Jovan , Jovanovic Mica
Published: September 2011

The Serbian E-PRTR register (The European Pollutant Release and Transfer
Register) was established in 2007 and harmonized with PRTR protocol of Arhus
convention and E-PRTR directive. In this paper, the quality of 2009 data
reported to the Serbian PRTR register was analyzed. The analysis includes 37
large combustion plants with the capacity equal or greater than 50 MW. The
combustion plants include power plants, heating plants and industrial energy
units. The calculation is done using EMEP/EEA 2009 methodology and Tier 2
approach. The analysis obtained presents an overview of the quality of the
reported data for SOx, NOx and TSP emissions for 61 combustion units e.g.
emitters (stacks). The results show that all 61 emitters reported data with
the deviation greater than 25%, with 55% of the emitters reporting data that
differed from pollutant to pollutant in comparison to the estimated data. Out
of those, 30% of the emitters reported smaller and 8% reported greater
emissions than estimated emissions with 7% of the emitters not submitting any
emissions data. The analysis also includes calculation of the emissions scope
limit within 95% confidence interval. According to these results, it can be
concluded that only 15% of the emitters have emission levels that fall within
the scope limits, 47% of the emitters reported data of which two data fall
within the scope limits, 28% of the emitters reported data of which only one
data fall within the scope limits, 3% of the emitters had data that didn?t
fall within the scope limits, and 7% did not reported any emission data. The
results of the analysis can be summarized as: 1) operators in facilities do
not know how to calculate emissions from their sources, and 2) the
application of global emission factors can lead to considerable errors. The
main reasons for significant deviation are different fuel quality, type of
technical units and human error, thus national emission factors should be
developed.
Specific approach for continuous air quality monitoring
Authors: Zivkovic Predrag , Tomic Mladen , Ilic Gradimir , Vukic Mica , Stevanovic Zana
Published: September 2011

Rapid industry development as well as increase of traffic volume across the
world resulted in air quality becoming one of the most important factors of
everyday life. Air quality monitoring is the necessary factor for proper
decision making regarding air pollution. An integral part of such
investigations is the measurement of wind characteristics, as the wind is the
most influential factor in turbulent pollution diffusion into the atmosphere.
The most of the air pollution originates from combustion processes, so it is
important to make quantitative, as well as qualitative analysis, as the
sources of pollution can be very distant. In this paper, specific methodology
for continuous wind, temperature and air quality data acquisition is
presented. Comparison of the measured results is given, as well as the
detailed presentation of the characteristics of the acquisition software
used.
Phytochemical screening and biological activity of extracts of plant species Halacsya sendtneri (Boiss.) Dörfl.
Authors: Maskovic Pavle , Manojlovic Nedeljko , Mandic Anamarija , Misan Aleksandra , Milovanovic Ivan , Radojkovic Marija , Cvijovic Milica , Solujic Slavica
Published: September 2011

This study is aimed at examining total polyphenol, flavonoid, gallotannin and
condensed tannins content in acetone, chloroform, ethyl acetate and petroleum
ether extracts of Halacsya sendtneri (Boiss.) D?rfl., their antimicrobial and
antioxidant activities, as well as identifying and quantifying the phenolic
components. The antioxidant activity is consistent with the results of total
quantity of phenolic compound. The results showed that the acetone extract of
plant species Halascya sendtneri (Boiss.) D?rfl. possessed the highest
antioxidant activity. IC50 values were determined: 9.45?1.55 ?g/mL for DPPH
free radical scavenging activity, 13.46?1.68 ?g/mL for inhibitory activity
against lipid peroxidation, 59.11?0.83 ?g/mL for hydroxyl radical scavenging
activity and 27.91?0.88 ?g/mL for ferrous ion chelating ability. The
antimicrobial activity was tested using broth dilution procedure for
determination of the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC). The MICs were
determined for 8 selected indicator strains. All of the extracts showed
strong to moderate strong antimicrobial activity. The phenolic composition of
Halacsya sendtneri extracts was determined by the HPLC method. The dominant
phenolic compound in acetone, chloroform and ethyl acetate extract is
rosmarinic acid. Ethyl acetate extract was also abundant in p-hydroxybenzoic
acid and ferulic acid. The main compounds in petrol ether extract were
chlorogenic acid and quercetin.
Causes and consequences of the Spanish economic crisis: Why the recovery is taken so long?
Authors: Carballo-Cruz Francisco
Published: September 2011

Spain is currently facing its worst crisis in the last fifty years. The
crisis began as an extension of the international financial crisis, but the
internal imbalances accumulated in the pre-crisis period aggravated the
situation. At present their incomplete adjustment is making difficult the
economic recovery. This paper describes the evolution of the economic crisis
in Spain. The real estate sector and the banking sector are analyzed in
detail, as they played a key role in the detonation and the deepening of the
crisis. The results of the main reforms carried out so far are also carefully
examined. It also discusses the main factors that have delayed the economic
recovery up to now (unemployment and indebtedness), and present some
alternatives to define an exit strategy.
Influence of the Curing Mode on Fluoride Ion Release of Self-adhesive Resin Luting Cements in Water or During pH-Cycling Regimen
Authors: Aguiar TR , Pinto CF , Cavalli V , Nobre-dos-Santos M , Ambrosano GMB , Mathias P , Giannini M
Published: September 2011

Clinical Relevance

Within the limited experimental conditions, the self-adhesive cements provided fluoride ion release capacity. The fluoride release for all resin cements was not uniform during pH cycling, decreasing throughout the duration of the study.
Effects of Flicker Rate, Complexity, and Color Combinations of Chinese Characters and Backgrounds on Visual Search Performance with Varying Flicker Types
Authors: Huang Kuo-Chen , Lin Rung-Tai , Wu Chih-Fu
Published: September 2011

This study investigated the effects of number of strokes in Chinese characters, flicker rate, flicker type, and character/background color combination on search performance. 37 participants ages 14 to 18 years were randomly assigned to each flicker-type condition. The search field contained 36 characters arranged in a 6 × 6 matrix. Participants were asked to search for the target characters among the surrounding distractors and count how many target characters were displayed in the search array. Analysis indicated that the character/background color combination significantly affected search times. The color combinations of white/purple and white/green yielded search times greater than those for black/white and black/yellow combinations. A significant effect for flicker type on search time was also identified. Rotating characters facilitated search time, compared with twinkling ones. The number of strokes and the flicker rates also had positive effects on search performances. For flicker rate, the search accuracy for 0.5 Hz was greater than that for 1.0 Hz, and the latter was also greater than that for 2.0 Hz. Results are applicable to web advertisement designs containing dynamic characters, in terms of how to best capture readers' attention by various means of dynamic character presentation.
Image Quality of a Mobile Display under Different Illuminations
Authors: Lin Po-Hung , Kuo Wen-Hung
Published: September 2011

This study constructed the image quality models for a small mobile display under different ambient illumination levels using Group Method and Data Handling (GMDH) and described the relationship between perceived image quality and physical measurements. 33 college students took part in this experiment and were asked to evaluate the image quality under 1,500 lux (typical indoor office illumination) and 7,000 lux (simulated outdoor environment) in Stage One and Stage Two, respectively. In each stage, the participants had to evaluate 21 images. 17 sets of the data as a training set were used to build the model and four sets of the data as a testing set were used to verify the model. The results indicated that the effects of luminance, contrast, correlated color temperature (CCT), and resolution were significant on perceived image quality under 1,500 lux. However, color temperature was not a significant physical characteristic, and an interaction between luminance and contrast was found below 7,000 lux. From the results of the experiment, it is considered that the outdoor environment (7,000 lux) is not suitable for using mobile displays. Finally, once a valid image quality model is built, the subjective image quality can be established when the measurements of significant physical characteristics are provided. The results of subjective ratings can also be provided for mobile display manufacturers to improve the product quality so that their products can meet customers' requirements.
An Investigation of Surface Reconstruction from Binocular Disparity Based on Standard Regularization Theory: Comparison between “Membrane” and “Thin-Plate” Potential Energy Models
Authors: Shiraiwa Aya , Hayashi Takefumi
Published: September 2011

Visible surfaces of three-dimensional objects are reconstructed from two-dimensional retinal images in the early stages of human visual processing. In the computational model of surface reconstruction based on the standard regularization theory, an energy function is minimized. Two types of model have been proposed, called “membrane” and “thin-plate” after their function formulas, in which the first or the second derivative of depth information is used. In this study, the threshold of surface reconstruction from binocular disparity was investigated using a sparse random dot stereogram, and the predictive accuracy of these models was evaluated. It was found that the thin-plate model reconstructed surfaces more accurately than the membrane model and showed good agreement with experimental results. The likelihood that these models imitate human processing of visual information is discussed in terms of the size of receptive fields in the visual pathways of the human cortex.
Investigating Word Class Effects in First and Second Languages
Authors: Furtner Marco R. , Rauthmann John F. , Sachse Pierre
Published: September 2011

According to Zyzik in 2009, only a few recent studies have investigated similarities in use of words in comprehension of first languages (L1) and second languages (L2). Furtner, Rauthmann, and Sachse showed a rank order of word classes by frequency of eye-gaze regression when reading other difficult words: nouns, adjectives, closed-class words, verbs. The hypothesis was that a L1–L2 word-class similarity effect between German (L1) and English (L2) would occur, and this was tested with jumbled word reading of English text (wherein letters within words have been jumbled) and eye-tracking by 141 participants. Analyses of regressive fixations from one word class to others showed that nouns were regressed most often and there was a rank order of importance among the word classes apparently used to enhance comprehension of other difficult words (nouns, adjectives, verbs, closed-class words). Thus, previous findings for L1 were largely replicated. Findings are discussed regarding language acquisition.
Comparison of the Home Advantage in Nine Different Professional Team Sports in Spain
Authors: Gómez Miguel A. , Pollard Richard , Luis-Pascual Juan-Carlos
Published: September 2011

Home advantage is a well-established phenomenon in many sports. The present study is unique in that it includes different sports analysed in the same country, at the same level of competition, and over the same time period. Nine team sports from Spain were included: baseball, basketball, handball, indoor soccer, roller hockey, rugby, soccer, volleyball, and water polo. Data for five seasons (2005–2006 to 2009–2010) were obtained, totaling 9,472 games. The results confirmed the existence of home advantage in all nine sports. There was a statistically significant difference between the sports; home advantage was highest in rugby (67.0%), and lowest in volleyball (55.7%), water polo (56.2%), and roller hockey (58.3%). The design of the study controlled for some of the likely causes of home advantage, and the results suggested that the high home advantage for rugby was likely a reflection of the continuous, aggressive, and intense nature of the sport.
Temporal and Spatial Parameters of Stepping in Place in Children and Adults
Authors: Ikeda Yoshifumi , Kamiyama Yu , Okuzumi Hideyuki , Hirata Shogo , Kokubun Mitsuru
Published: September 2011

Characteristics of synchronized and self-paced stepping in place were examined by analyzing a temporal parameter (step frequency) and a spatial parameter (step height). Participants were 20 adults (10 women, 10 men; M age = 22.5 yr., range = 21–23) and 10 children (5 girls, 5 boys; M age = 6.1 yr., range = 5–6). Results indicated that: (1) the step frequencies, which were equivalent for both groups, were well coincident with stimulus frequencies; (2) when step frequencies were imposed, the step height decreased with increasing step frequency, except for the lowest frequency condition in children; (3) movement consistency was the highest at 2 Hz and deteriorated if the step frequency was higher or lower; and (4) the self-paced stepping in place was optimal in terms of movement consistency. These results showed that stepping in place is a rhythmic movement at a given range of frequency which is coordinated so as to keep the product of step frequency and step height constant.
Relative Power of Harmonics in Human Frequency-Following Responses Associated with Voice Pitch in American and Chinese Adults
Authors: Jeng Fuh-Cherng , Costilow Cassie E. , Stangherlin Daniela P. , Lin Chia-Der
Published: September 2011

When the fundamental frequency ( f0) is removed from a complex stimulus, the pitch of the f0 is still perceived by the listener. Through the use of the scalp-recorded frequency-following response, this study examined the relative contributions of the f0 and its harmonics in pitch processing by systematically manipulating the speech stimulus to remove component frequencies. 12 American and 12 Chinese adults were recruited. There were statistically significant effects of pitch strength and frequency error for the experimental-condition factor. There were significantly larger responses to the harmonics-only conditions than those obtained in the f0-only and control conditions. No statistically significant difference was observed between the two groups of participants. These findings indicate that neural responses associated with individual harmonics dominate the pitch processing in the human brainstem, irrespective of whether the listener's native language is nontonal or tonal.
Auditory Mismatch Negativity: Detecting Spectral Contrasts in a Modulated Noise
Authors: Stoody Tina M. , Saoji Aniket A. , Atcherson Samuel R.
Published: September 2011

The ability to detect sinusoidal spectral envelope from an unmodulated (flat) spectrum has shown a strong correlation with speech perception in quiet and noisy listening conditions in normal hearing, hearing-impaired, and cochlear implant users. In this study, the mismatch negativity (MMN) was collected from 10 normal-hearing adult listeners and used to determine if modulation detection thresholds derived electrophysiologically correlate with the psychophysically measured spectral modulation detection thresholds. MMNs were present for most participants with spectral contrasts of 10 and 20 dB, suggesting that the MMN may be a promising neurophysiologic measure of spectral envelope perception when nonbehavioral measures are desired.
Synthesis and electronic spectra of new low-molecular weight compounds with possible application in electroluminescent layers
Authors: Dobrikov Georgi , Dobrikov Georgi , Aleksandrova Mariya
Published: September 2011

Two new low-molecular weight compounds — (Z)-4-(4-(dimethylamino)benzylidene)-1-(9-ethyl-9H-carbazol-3-yl)-2-phenyl-1H-imidazol-5(4H)-one and 2-(6-hydroxyhexyl)-6-(pyrrolidin-1-yl)-1H-benzo[de]isoquinoline-1,3(2H)-dione) — with possible application in organic light-emitting devices were synthesized. Their photophysical properties in solution and in polymer films were investigated. The determined relative fluorescence quantum yields in solution for both compounds were 0.003 and 0.51, while those in poly(methyl methacrylate) films were around 0.10 and 1.0, respectively. For 1H-imidazol-5(4H)-one derivative, single-layer organic displays with one emitting layer were prepared by spin-coating technology. The applied voltage was 40 V (AC) with 1–3 KHz frequency. The emission maximum of the experimental AC display structures was at 600–630 nm. For displays with 2-(6-hydroxyhexyl)-6-(pyrrolidin-1-yl)-1H-benzo[de]isoquinoline-1,3(2H)-dione) the applied voltage was 60 V (AC) with 6-9 KHz frequency, but its future success will require more appropriate binding polymers. Based on the obtained experimental results, it is concluded that the investigated compounds could be applied for preparation of color electroluminescent structures.
A novel redox-active calix[4]arene-tetrathiafulvalene dyad
Authors: Zhao Bang-Tun , Zhu Xiao-Min , Peng Qi-Ming , Yan Zhen-Ning , Derf Franck , Sallé Marc
Published: September 2011

A novel redox-active calix[4]arene-TTF 5 was prepared by the reaction of p-tert-butylcalix[4]arene 4 with the tosylated TTF 3 in the presence of cesium fluoride. The structure of the dyad 5 was identified by X-ray diffraction analysis, and the preliminary electrochemical properties of 5 were investigated by cyclic voltammetry (CV), for which two reversible one-electron waves were observed. Moreover, the UV-vis absorption spectra studies show that the dyad 5 undergoes progressive oxidation at the TTF moiety in presence of increasing amounts of Cu2+ or Hg2+.
The relationship between the mercury concentration in fish muscles and scales/fins and its significance
Authors: Červenka Rostislav , Bednařík Antonín , Komárek Josef , Ondračková Markéta , Jurajda Pavel , Vítek Tomáš , Spurný Petr
Published: September 2011

The determination of mercury in fish typically involves analysis of muscles. For predicting the concentration of mercury in fish muscle on the basis of the analysis of fish scales or fins, the relationship between total mercury concentrations in fish muscles and in fish scales and fins was studied. Mercury content in fish muscles, scales and fins was determined by atomic absorption spectrometry with thermal decomposition of the sample in a flow of oxygen. A number of scale treatments were applied in order to remove impurities and to enhance the prediction quality. For scale treatment, 40 min of washing with DI water in an ultrasonic bath is recommended. A coefficient of determination r2= 0.93 for the relationship between Hg concentrations in muscles and scales was achieved for 40 fish among the different fish species tested (European bream, perch, roach) from the Hamry Reservoir, Czech Republic. With respect to fin sampling, the coefficient of determination r2 for these fish was 0.86. The analysis of fish scales and caudal fins is a useful screening tool for assessing the relative mercury contamination of monitored fish. The method of sampling scales is not suitable for fish species with small scales such as brown trout.
Effects of Asian Sand Dust on Mucin Gene Expression and Activation of Nasal Polyp Epithelial Cells
Authors: Kim Seon-Tae , Ye Mi-Kyung , Shin Seung-Heon
Published: September 2011

Background

Asian sand dust (ASD) contains a variety of chemical and microbiological materials such as lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and beta-glucan that can cause inflammation. The increase in the atmospheric concentration of ASD has been associated with asthma severity and adverse effects on respiratory function. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of ASD on the inflammatory process and mucin gene expression in nasal epithelial cells.

Methods

Primary nasal polyp epithelial cells were exposed to ASD for 72 hours, and then the supernatants were collected. To determine the activation of the epithelial cells, IL-6, IL-8, and granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor were measured. In addition, the potential cytotoxic effects of ASD on the epithelial cells were evaluated. Quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction for MUC4, MUC5AC, MUC5B, and MUC8 mRNA expression, in the nasal epithelial cells, was performed.

Results

ASD stimulated the production of chemical mediators in a time-dependent manner. The cytokine production was highest at 100 micrograms/mL of ASD. MUC4 and MUC5B mRNA expression was significantly increased at 10 and 50 micrograms/mL of ASD.

Conclusion

Atomospheric exposure to various chemical species and microbiological materials carrying ASD may affect upper airway inflammation through the production of inflammatory cytokines and mucin.
Quercetin Increases Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator–Mediated Chloride Transport and Ciliary Beat Frequency: Therapeutic Implications for Chronic Rhinosinusitis
Authors: Zhang Shaoyan , Smith Nicholas , Schuster Daniel , Azbell Christopher , Sorscher Eric J. , Rowe Steven M. , Woodworth Bradford A.
Published: September 2011

Background

Increasing epithelial chloride (Cl− ) secretion in the upper airways represents a putative method for promoting mucociliary clearance through augmentation of airway surface liquid depth. Several naturally occurring flavonoid compounds, including quercetin, have shown the capacity to increase transepithelial Cl− transport. Quercetin exhibits well-known antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity and is now recognized as a potent activator of the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) anion channel activity in a fashion largely independent of cyclic adenosine monophosphate signaling. The present study investigates whether this compound activates Cl− secretion and ciliary beat frequency (CBF) in well-characterized culture models of sinonasal epithelium.

Methods

Cystic fibrosis and non-cystic fibrosis primary human sinonasal epithelial (HSNE) and murine nasal septal epithelial (MNSE) cultures were studied for transepithelial ion transport in Ussing chambers under voltage clamp conditions and CBF was performed using pharmacologic manipulation.

Results

Change in short circuit current (DeltaI SC, expressed as microamperes per squared centimeter) in response to quercetin were significantly greater than controls in both MNSE (23.23 ± 5.44 versus 2.47 ± 1.62; p < 0.0001) and HSNE (-8.72 ± 1.88 versus -1.88 ± 0.66; p < 0.01) cultures. CBF was significantly increased in quercetin-treated cells (expressed as fold change over baseline) in wild type (1.65 ± 0.13 versus 1.23 ± 0.05 [control]; p < 0.01), but not CFTR−/- ( 1.65 ± 0.29 versus 1.48 ± 0.38; p = 0.23).

Conclusion

Quercetin significantly increased transepithelial Cl− transport and CBF in MNSE and HSNE cultures. Future studies investigating quercetin as a means to promote mucociliary transport in individuals with rhinosinusitis are warranted.
Effectiveness of Nasal Surgery Alone on Sleep Quality, Architecture, Position, and Sleep-Disordered Breathing in Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome with Nasal Obstruction
Authors: Choi Ji Ho , Kim Eun Joong , Kim Yeon Soo , Kim Tae Hoon , Choi June , Kwon Soon Young , Lee Heung Man , Lee Sang Hag , Lee Seung Hoon
Published: September 2011

Background

The goal of this study was to evaluate the effect of nasal surgery alone on sleep quality, architecture, position, and sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) (including obstructive apnea and snoring) in adult patients with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) and nasal obstruction.

Methods

A total of 22 consecutive male patients (mean age, 41.3 ± 10.9 years) with OSAS and nasal obstruction, who underwent nasal surgery alone, were enrolled in the study. We compared polysomnographic data related with sleep quality (sleep efficiency [SE] and arousal index [ArI]), sleep architecture (stages N [nonrapid eye movement], 1, 2, and 3, and R [rapid eye movement]), the distribution of sleep positions, and SDB (apnea–hypopnea index [AHI], apnea index [AI], minimum arterial oxygen saturation [SaO 2 ], and snoring) before and after nasal surgery.

Results

SE (from 86.6 ± 6.3% to 89.7 ± 7.1%; p = 0.039), stage R (from 15.3 ± 4.8% to 18.6 ± 5.4%; p = 0.016) and snoring (from 32.2 ± 16.4% to 25.8 ± 18.6%; p = 0.045) significantly changed after nasal surgery. However, there were no significant changes in ArI, other sleep stages, the proportion of sleep time spent in the supine position, AHI, AI, and minimum SaO 2 after nasal surgery.

Conclusion

Nasal surgery alone was partially effective in improving sleep quality, architecture, and snoring, but it had no effect on the change of the distribution of sleep positions and obstructive apnea in patients with OSAS and nasal obstruction.
Efficacy of Using a Hydrodebrider and of Citric Acid/Zwitterionic Surfactant on a Staphylococcus Aureus Bacterial Biofilm in the Sheep Model of Rhinosinusitis
Authors: Valentine Rowan , Jervis-Bardy Josh , Psaltis Alkis , Tan Lor Wai , Wormald Peter-John
Published: September 2011

Background

Biofilms in chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) patients are associated with recalcitrant disease patterns. Citric acid/zwitterionic surfactant (CAZS) has been shown to have significant efficacy at in vitro biofilm eradication. Unique hydrodebrider systems have been shown to have effective antibiofilm efficacy. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of the CAZS/hydrodebrider treatment on Staphylococcus aureus biofilms in the sheep model of CRS.

Methods

Forty-two sheep frontal sinuses were inoculated with S. aureus, followed by 7 days of biofilm growth. Sinuses were randomized to one of nine treatment groups: control, hydrodebrider with saline or CAZS (killed on day 0 or day 7 posttreatment), CAZS, or saline flush (killed on day 0 or day 7 posttreatment). Confocal scanning laser microscopy (CSLM) was used to confirm extent of biofilm reduction. Samples of each sinus were taken, assessing cilia morphology using electron microscopy.

Results

A mean of 37.22 ± 9.65% of control (no treatment) CSLM images taken showed biofilms. Both CAZS flush and CAZS/hydrodebrider treatments showed initial improvements in biofilms but biofilm regrowth followed treatment, 14.74 ± 9.58% to 18.91 ± 12.14% and 15.60 ± 13.92% to 24.70 ± 3.66%, respectively (p > 0.05). Saline/hydrodebrider treatments showed a nonsignificant improvement in biofilm treatment, which was maintained, 18.34 ± 11.85% to 12.04 ± 10.28% (p > 0.05). Cilial morphology grade was significantly worse in the CAZS treatment groups (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

CAZS solution (with and without a hydrodebrider system) can significantly adversely affect cilia morphology. The hydrodebrider system, when combined with saline, may be a useful treatment adjunct for mucosal biofilms.
The Elevated Expression of Osteopontin and Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor in Sinonasal Inverted Papilloma and Its Relationship with Clinical Severity
Authors: Liu Wenlong , Li Zuwang , Luo Qing , Lai Yinyan , Zhang Jing , Chen Fenghong , Shi Jianbo , Li Huabin , Xiong Guanxia , Xu Geng , Wang Hongtian
Published: September 2011

Background

Osteopontin (OPN) is involved in cell survival, immunity, and tumor progression. The overexpression of OPN has been proposed as a biomarker of progression and metastasis for several tumor types, but it is still unclear whether it is up-regulated in sinonasal inverted papilloma (SIP).

Methods

We enrolled 33 subjects with SIP and 15 normal controls to determine the importance of OPN and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in SIP. Using immunohistochemistry, quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, we examined the distribution, mRNA expression, and protein levels, respectively, of OPN and VEGF. We then correlated these values with clinical severity.

Results

The immunostaining levels for OPN and VEGF were significantly increased in SIP tissues compared with control tissues (p < 0.05), as were their mRNA expression and protein levels (p < 0.05). The correlation between OPN and VEGF expression and the clinical stage of SIP was significant (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that OPN and VEGF were both overexpressed in the analyzed SIP tissues and were associated with clinical severity, suggesting that the OPN–VEGF axis might contribute to tumor progression by enhancing angiogenesis. Therefore, OPN may serve as a potential therapeutic target for preventing SIP progression and recurrence.
Disagreement and Responses to Climate Change
Authors: Long Graham
Published: September 2011

The potential harms associated with global climate change demand an urgent response. But at the same time, the nature and extent of both the problem and our proper response to it are continually contested, within the academic community and wider society. What should be the ethical import
of this disagreement? In this paper I set out John Rawls' theory of reasonable disagreement as a way of analysing such contestation. On Rawls' account, reasonable disagreement is founded in diversity rather than straightforward error. I argue that many aspects of the scientific and ethical
debate on climate change can be usefully viewed from within such a perspective. This raises, I suggest, serious problems for deciding what the human response to global warming must be. Lastly, I survey two responses which might be thought to cope with such pervasive disagreement. Neither,
however, is clearly effective. In my conclusion I suggest that reasonable disagreement might be tackled best in a model of deliberative democracy. Such a model, however, does not generate easy answers to the problems of climate change.
Conservation of Adaptive Self-Construction: A Flux-Centred Solution to the Paradox of Nature Preservation
Authors: Child Matthew F.
Published: September 2011

There is widespread public misunderstanding of ecology and conservation. A culturally entrenched 'balance of nature' paradigm abets consumerism by encouraging the use of materialism to preserve a static socioeconomic identity. Static self-identities do not foster the depth and breadth
of individual self-meaning that is necessary to integrate the existential properties of biodiversity into a popular culture of conservation. The 'flux of nature' paradigm, however, provides dynamic narrative devices for expounding the link between adaptive individuality and functioning social-ecological
systems. Shifting from a product-idealised to process-based self-construction will empower individual agency by emancipating self-identity from regulatory social, economic and political institutions. Thus, the flux paradigm has the potential to rescue the practice of conservation from its
perceived paradox and to instil lasting ecological morality based on existential freedom.