bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An integrated approach to geostatistical depth conversion and gross rock volume estimation
Authors: Jensen Line Plouman , Stürup-Toft Emil , Pearse Scott , Cherrett Adam
Published: November 2014

Static, dynamic, and geomechanical models are typically built in depth because this is required when planning and drilling wells. These models are usually driven by seismic data via structural interpretation and seismic attributes, whose position is fixed in the time domain. To incorporate seismically derived data, or interpretations, time objects must be transformed to the depth domain using the process of depth conversion. The depth-conversion model should dynamically evolve during project life, from exploration to maturation. As more data become available and the geologic understanding improves, an evolving model can accommodate requirements for specific deliverables for various disciplines, e.g., gross rock volume (GRV) estimates, drilling uncertainty windows, and structural base case models. To meet the above specifications, we used a fully geostatistical method that enabled the incorporation of a large variety of data types and their associated uncertainties. We performed depth modeling simultaneously for all layers in the model, in which all layers were coupled. This imposed a dependency on depth surfaces, such that a depth surface was influenced by surfaces above and below, moving away from a classical top-down approach of depth conversion. A scriptable and mechanized method allowed for fast scenario modeling in which various geologic and geophysical concepts or model parameterization choices can be tested to provide discrete models and avoid anchoring at a single preferred model and associated probabilistic range. Depth results from multiple scenarios can be combined to provide common confidence intervals. The proposed method including scenario modeling has been successfully implemented in the UK Culzean HPHT gas field. The model successfully delivered input to the various disciplines in the asset team, providing depth structures for static model build, GRV estimates for each reservoir, and localized drilling uncertainty estimates.
Preconditioning seismic data for channel detection
Authors: Al-Dossary Saleh
Published: November 2014

Random seismic noise, present in all 3D seismic data sets, hampers manual interpretation by geoscientists and automatic analysis by a computer program. As a result, many noise-suppression techniques have been developed to enhance image quality. Accurately suppressing seismic noise without damaging image details is crucial in preserving small-scale geologic features for channel detection. The automatic detection of channel patterns theoretically should be easy because of their unique spatial signatures and scales, which differentiate them from other common 3D geobodies. For example, one notable channel characteristic has high local linearity: Spatial coherency is much greater in one direction than in other directions. A variety of techniques, such as spatial filters, can be used to enhance this “slender” channel feature in areas of high signal-to-noise ratio (S/N). Unfortunately, these spatial filters may also reduce the edge detectability in areas of low S/N. In this paper, I compared the effectiveness of three noise reduction filters: (1) running average, (2) redundant wavelet transform (RWT), and (3) polynomial fitting. I demonstrated the usefulness of these filters prior to edge detection to enhance channel patterns in seismic data collected from Saudi Arabia. The data examples demonstrated that RWT and polynomial fitting can successfully preserve, enhance, and delineate channel edges that were not visible in conventional seismic amplitude displays, whereas the running average filter further smeared the detectability of channel edges.
Tomographic resolution limits for diffraction imaging
Authors: Huang Yunsong , Zhang Dongliang , Schuster Gerard T.
Published: November 2014

We derived formulas for the tomographic resolution limits [Formula: see text] of diffraction data. Resolution limits exhibited that diffractions can provide twice or more the tomographic resolution of specular reflections and therefore led to more accurate reconstructions of velocities between layers. Numerical simulations supported this claim in which the tomogram inverted from diffraction data was noticeably more resolved compared to that inverted from specular data. The specular synthetics were generated by sources on the surface, and the diffraction data were generated by buried diffractors. However, this advantage is nullified if the intensity and signal-to-noise ratio of the diffractions are much less than those of the pervasive specular reflections.
Pitfalls and limitations in seismic attribute interpretation of tectonic features
Authors: Marfurt Kurt J. , Alves Tiago M.
Published: November 2014

Seismic attributes are routinely used to accelerate and quantify the interpretation of tectonic features in 3D seismic data. Coherence (or variance) cubes delineate the edges of megablocks and faulted strata, curvature delineates folds and flexures, while spectral components delineate lateral changes in thickness and lithology. Seismic attributes are at their best in extracting subtle and easy to overlook features on high-quality seismic data. However, seismic attributes can also exacerbate otherwise subtle effects such as acquisition footprint and velocity pull-up/push-down, as well as small processing and velocity errors in seismic imaging. As a result, the chance that an interpreter will suffer a pitfall is inversely proportional to his or her experience. Interpreters with a history of making conventional maps from vertical seismic sections will have previously encountered problems associated with acquisition, processing, and imaging. Because they know that attributes are a direct measure of the seismic amplitude data, they are not surprised that such attributes “accurately” represent these familiar errors. Less experienced interpreters may encounter these errors for the first time. Regardless of their level of experience, all interpreters are faced with increasingly larger seismic data volumes in which seismic attributes become valuable tools that aid in mapping and communicating geologic features of interest to their colleagues. In terms of attributes, structural pitfalls fall into two general categories: false structures due to seismic noise and processing errors including velocity pull-up/push-down due to lateral variations in the overburden and errors made in attribute computation by not accounting for structural dip. We evaluate these errors using 3D data volumes and find areas where present-day attributes do not provide the images we want.
Platforms for publishing and archiving computer-aided research
Authors: Hinsen Konrad
Published: November 2014

Computational models and methods take an ever more important place in modern scientific research. At the same time, they are becoming ever more complex, to the point that many such models and methods can no longer be adequately described in the narrative of a traditional journal article. Often they exist only as part of scientific software tools, which causes two important problems: (1) software tools are much more complex than the models and methods they embed, making the latter unnecessarily difficult to understand, (2) software tools depend on minute details of the computing environment they were written for, making them difficult to deploy and often completely unusable after a few years. This article addresses the second problem, based on the experience gained from the development and use of a platform specifically designed to facilitate the integration of computational methods into the scientific record.
Correspondence
Authors: Fisher Sarah
Published: November 2014

Intensive care: is it good for your health?

Whistle blowing: the personal cost

Looking back in anger
Pulmonary embolism: an overview of treatment and nursing issues
Authors: Reid Erica
Published: November 2014

Pulmonary embolism presents with a vague clinical picture. Pathophysiological effects vary from small pulmonary infarcts to life-threatening cardiogenic shock. Therefore, radiological investigation to confirm the diagnosis is required to institute appropriate treatment. This ranges from heparin therapy to surgical embolectomy. Care of this patient group requires vigilant nursing, because of not only the risk of further embolic episodes, but also the potential serious complications of treatment. Prevention of venous thromboembolism can be pharmacological or mechanical. The proactive role that nurses take in prevention of this potentially fatal disease process is often overlooked by the medical literature.
Nurses face the same problems worldwide
Authors: Castledine George
Published: November 2014

I have recently returned from a visit to New Zealand. It was interesting that the problems facing New Zealand nurses are strikingly similar to those of nurses in Britain. For example, they are concerned about pay, staff shortages, workloads and skill mix. They are also increasingly having to rely on the support of unregulated caregivers. Although all their nurse training is at graduate level, continuing specialist nurse training is difficult to access, and nurses are expected to pay for postregistration education themselves. There is also no formal postregistration training to prepare nurses for the role of district nurse.
Is it safe for nurses to make up IV infusions?
Authors: Curran Evonne , McNamee Sandra , Kirkpatrick Pia , Jackson Brenda , Hood John , Thakker Bishan
Published: November 2014

Expanding their roles is a challenging development for nurses. An example of this is that following training and supervised practice many nurses are deemed competent to make up intravenous (IV) infusions in a ward setting. However, the safety of this practice has to be questioned because there is a possibility of contamination of the infusate from the environment while the infusion is being prepared.
Correspondence
Authors: Piercy Deborah , Arrowsmith Helen
Published: November 2014

More consultation with mental health nurses

Tegaderm vs IV3000: continued debate
Peripheral IV cannula dressings: advantages and disadvantages
Authors: Campbell Hilary , Carrington Michelle
Published: November 2014

There are many peripheral intravenous cannula dressings being used throughout the country. This article is a review of these dressings and looks at those used in the authors' trust as well as other products on the market. The article gives an overview of the advantages and disadvantages of the different dressings, including costs, that allow medical and nursing staff to make an informed choice about the type of dressing they use. The authors felt, given all the evidence, the traditional method of using gauze, tape or mefix was no longer acceptable practice.
Care study: providing effective care in palliative nursing
Authors: Dunne Kathleen , Coates Vivien E
Published: November 2014

Currently, nurses are under great pressure to demonstrate effective, evidence-based patient care. In this article a single case study will be used to demonstrate that care can be based on recent research within a palliative care setting to produce effective outcomes. Research-based interventions, which were used to provide care for a patient who will be referred to as Maria, will be discussed and evaluated to illustrate the contribution that evidence-based practice made to her nursing care. Although it is a single case study and the findings cannot be generalized, it is suggested that this article can be used to demonstrate the need for accurate interpretation of assessment data, illustrate the use of research to support nursing interventions in pain management, constipation and skin pressure damage, and show that empirical evidence alone may not be a sufficient basis for care and that moral issues must be taken into account.
Evaluating Expressed Emotion and Schizophrenia
Authors: Cutcliffe John R , Ward Martin F
Published: November 2014

Members felt that the abstract identified the research problem, but failed to specify a hypothesis or outline the methodology; however, it did identify the major findings of the report. Concerns were raised regarding the term ‘high expressed emotion (EE)’ as members felt this was a rather pejorative expression, i.e. what would it mean to a family if one of its members was labelled ‘high EE’ and similarly what affect would it have on members of staff to be given this label? In the same way that concerns have been raised regarding assigning labels to clients (Thompson et al, 1988; Clunn, 1993), perhaps clinicians and researchers should consider the possible deleterious effects of giving such labels to family carers or members of staff.
Providing correct pressure-relieving devices for optimum outcome
Authors: Phillips Lyn
Published: November 2014

Pressure redistributing (PR) support surfaces are positioned by manufacturers against different levels of patient vulnerability to developing pressure ulcers. However, there is no agreed method through which such linkage between a patient and an appropriate support surface can be made. This lack of clarity leads to new devices being positioned in a manner not representative of their eventual use in clinical practice. Using a data hierarchy approach, three strands of evidence (interface pressure, a pilot national survey and a randomized controlled trial) are presented to illustrate, and support, the repositioning of the Viaclin dynamic mattress overlay (formerly the Pegasus Overture) from use with medium-risk patients to use with higher-risk patients. The need for amendment is seen most strikingly in the two clinical studies featured in this article, during which 87% of all patients nursed on the Viaclin dynamic mattress overlay were at high- to very high-risk of developing ulcers.
General nursing does not seem to have progressed
Authors: Castledine George
Published: November 2014

It is 21 years since I wrote my first ever column for the Nursing Mirror (Castledine, 1978). On that occasion I discussed my role as a joint appointment between education and service. Half my time was spent as a charge nurse and the other half as a lecturer in the Department of Nursing at the University of Manchester. Now, several years later, I have decided again to devote half my time to clinical practice. The reason for doing this is that I have become disillusioned at the way the theory–practice gap has widened and general nursing care has deteriorated. Twenty one years ago I believed that nursing in the UK was at an exciting and critical stage in its development. We were moving away from a reductionist model of task–oriented nursing to a more research-based holistic approach which emphasized patient involvement and individualized care.
Nursing the geriatric equine patient
Authors: Pritchard Phillippa
Published: November 2014

This article provides general information for veterinary nurses to consider when nursing the elderly equine patient. Knowledge of pre-existing conditions and their implications on how that patient is nursed is outlined, as this is more important in the elderly than others in the equine population. Pre-existing conditions in the elderly can continue to be managed at the clinic when there is awareness of the patients' individual requirements, which can be obtained by speaking with the owner. Conditions such as laminitis, Cushing's disease, arthritis and dental disease are discussed as well as cardiac disease and common forms of neoplasia that are noted in the older equine.
International differences in the journey toward compulsory veterinary nurse registration
Authors: Harvey Laura , Ladyman Rebecca , Farnworth Mark
Published: November 2014

This paper seeks to explore the veterinary nursing profession and its regulation using five countries as examples, namely the UK, New Zealand, Australia, the Republic of Ireland and the United States of America (USA). It also briefly examines the concept of working towards an internationally unified or standardised approach to the regulation of the veterinary nursing profession, which may be beneficial to the profession. Finally, it provides brief information for veterinary nurses who may wish to transfer their careers between the five example countries described. The focus of this paper is from a New Zealand perspective, but relates to veterinary nurses worldwide.
Antibiotic resistance in animals: the Government's AMR strategy
Authors: Marier Elizabeth
Published: November 2014

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a serious and growing global public health concern with implications for every Government and the populations they serve. The Strategy, which adheres to the ‘one health’ approach, sets out a ‘call to action’.
Ambiente, petróleo y vulnerabilidad política en el Oriente Ecuatoriano: ¿hacia nuevas formas de gobernanza energética?
Authors: Juteau-Martineau Guilhem , Becerra Sylvia , Maurice Laurence
Published: November 2014

Este estudio propone un análisis histórico de la gobernanza de la explotación petrolera en la Región Amazónica Ecuatoriana (rae), respecto a los fuertes impactos sociales y ambientales que tuvieron desde la década de 1960 hasta hoy. Tres etapas marcan la evolución de la gobernanza, hacia una institucionalización reciente de la regulación de los impactos de las actividades petroleras a través de políticas públicas centralistas. La pertinencia, factibilidad y eficacia de estas políticas, así como el papel futuro de los gobiernos descentralizados, son parámetros llaves en la evolución de la vulnerabilidad social a los impactos de las actividades petroleras.
El porvenir de una ilusión: la ideología del Buen Vivir
Authors: Caria Sara , Domínguez Martín Rafael
Published: November 2014

El objetivo del artículo es analizar el concepto y estrategias oficiales del «Buen Vivir» a través del filtro de las principales definiciones de ideología de las tradiciones marxista, psicoanalítica y cognitiva, como falsa conciencia, programa movilizador o discurso hegemónico y como mecanismo cognitivo de reducción de la complejidad. Para ello se contrapone el discurso oficial del «Buen Vivir» (recogido en la Constitución de 2008, los Planes Nacionales para el «Buen Vivir» 2009-2013 y 2013-2017, y en la publicística e intervenciones públicas de las máximas autoridades políticas del Ecuador) con la orientación y resultados de las políticas públicas, que, en realidad, aspiran a lograr un proceso de desarrollo basado en una diversificación de la estructura productiva del país por ahora inédita.
Transferencias federales, desigualdad interregional y redistribución en América Latina
Authors: González Lucas
Published: November 2014

Esta investigación analiza el impacto de las transferencias federales y del gasto subnacional en el desarrollo humano y la equidad interregional. Los datos de transferencias y gasto subnacional en Argentina, Brasil, México, Chile y Colombia, entre 1983-2011, indican que el poder redistributivo del gobierno central está asociado con mejoras en la equidad interregional, pero no con mejores valores de desarrollo humano, exactamente al contrario de lo que sucede con el gasto social subnacional.
Factors Affecting Fin Damage of Farmed Rainbow Trout
Authors: Cvetkovikj Aleksandar , Radeski Miroslav , Blazhekovikj-Dimovska Dijana , Kostov Vasil , Stevanovski Vangjel
Published: November 2014

The aims of this study were to determine the influence of the factors affecting fin damage under different rainbow trout production systems and to compare the findings with the known experimental reports. The study was based on a questionnaire that included information about the main factors i.e. oxygen level in exit water, water temperature, stocking density, daily feed ration, number of meals and grading frequency on seven rainbow trout farms. Standard multiple regression analysis, based on a previously published fin damage dataset, was used to assess the relationship between the level of fin damage per fin and the factors. Daily feed ration received the strongest weight in the model for the caudal, anal and both pectoral fins, whereas number of meals received the strongest weight in the model for both pelvic fins. Grading frequency received the strongest weight only in the dorsal fin model. Lower levels of daily feed ration and number of meals combined with higher water temperature increased the level of fin damage, whereas stocking density had no effect. The results conform to the experimental research on fin damage in rainbow trout. The research model contributes to the overall assessment of fish welfare and the regression analysis used in this study could be used on rainbow trout farms to evaluate the effect of the main factors on the level of fin damage.
Problems of efficient processing and use of collagen-containing materials
Authors: Koliada Maksym , Plavan Vikroriia
Published: November 2014

Collagen is an important biopolymer in numerous applications due to its special characteristics, such as biodegradability and weak antigenecity. Interest recently, has grown in fish collagen. This stems from the fact, that the use of animal collagen is unsafe due to the effects from cattle rabies disease. Furthermore, fish collagen is 96 % identical to human protein. Modern fish production is accompanied by the formation of a large number of protein-containing wastes. Depending on the degree of fish processing waste hydrolysis we obtain different products, such as feed additives or growth accelerators. Available technologies are unacceptable, because they require the consumption of large amounts of time and energy. The enzymatic method of obtaining collagen hydrolysates is the most suitable because it can be implemented under milder conditions and it prevents the destruction of amino acids, carbohydrates and other substances contained in the waste. Application of the alkaline enzymatic hydrolysis method with hydrogen peroxide pretreatment at elevated temperature provides a collagen hydrolysate, which is characterized by a high content of total nitrogen; collagen is amorphous, has fully homogeneous structure and has a balanced amino acid composition.
The Subjective Experience of Poverty
Authors: Schweiger Gottfried , Graf Gunter
Published: November 2014

What significance should the subjective experiences of poor people have in a normative philosophical critique of poverty? In this paper, we take up this question and answer it by looking at two different normative theories: the capability approach of Amartya Sen and Martha Nussbaum and the recognition approach of Axel Honneth. While Sen and Nussbaum are largely quite reluctant toward the role of subjective experiences of poor people, the recognition approach views them as central for its social critique of poverty. We will defend the thesis that a more inclusive view on the role of the subjects of suffering and injustice is needed, that such subjective experiences and the unique first-hand knowledge it produces cannot be substituted by objective criteria, while such criteria are needed to bolster – and in some cases also criticize – the poverty knowledge of poor people.
On the Possibility of Realist Dialetheism
Authors: Estrada-González Luis
Published: November 2014

Realist dialetheism is the view that there are contradictions in reality. One argument against this idea says that it is impossible because it has to make room for the possibility of a trivial reality, which is metaphysically impossible. Another argument against it says that the metaphysical structure of reality is such that it is impossible to have contradictions in it. I argue here that both arguments fail to establish the impossibility of realist dialetheism because they are based on a misconception about the notions of negation and contradiction, which leads them, in the first case, to wrongly hold that dialetheism has to be compatible with trivialism, and, in the second case, to assume that the validity of the Aristotelian principle of non-contradiction prevents the existence of dialetheias.
Use of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) powder and granules as aggregate replacement in concrete mixtures
Authors: Bolat Hakan , Erkus Pınar
Published: November 2014

Concrete is one of the materials in which polymer wastes are utilized. Generally, these wastes are added at specific rates in scientific studies but an important problem of waste polymers is size irregularity. Even when consistent dosage rates are used, variations in polymer size can lead to variability in the physical and mechanical properties of the concrete produced. The aim of this study is to determine physical and mechanical properties of polyvinyl chloride (PVC)-containing concretes. In order to produce normal and high strength concretes, 10%, 20%, and 30% replacement ratios of PVC powder and granules by volume of aggregate are used. Slump, fresh and hardened densities, compressive strength, capillary water absorption, and abrasion were tested on all concrete types. As the PVC ratio increases, important changes are seen in all physical and mechanical concrete properties. The unit weights of the 10%, 20%, and 30% replacement PVC powder concretes are lower by ∼4%, 8%, and 13%, respectively, as compared to the reference mixtures, and the replacement PVC granule concretes are lower by ∼2%, 4%, and 7%. Compressive strength test results showed similar trends. As PVC replacement increases, the capillary water absorption decreases between 10% and 50%, and abrasion decreases between 27% and 77%.
Evidência de Validade de Construto do NEUPSILIN Utilizando Análise Fatorial Confirmatória
Authors: Pawlowski Josiane , Remor Eduardo , Fumagalli de Salles Jerusa , De Mattos Pimenta Parente Maria Alice , Paz Fonseca Rochele , Ruschel Bandeira Denise
Published: November 2014

Objetivou-se apresentar evidências de validade de construto do Instrumento de Avaliação Neuropsicológica Breve NEUPSILIN. Foram avaliados 1017 brasileiros saudáveis, 67.1% mulheres, de 12 a 90 anos de idade (M = 36.72; DP = 23.90) e de 1 a 27 anos de escolaridade (M = 8.71, DP = 4.13). Foram aplicadas as 32 tarefas do NEUPSILIN, que avaliam orientação, atenção, percepção, memória, habilidades aritméticas, linguagem, praxias e funções executivas. Modelos teóricohipotéticos, ajustados e alternativos de linguagem, memória, praxias e funções executivas foram analisados com o método de Mínimos Quadrados Generalizados do AMOS (18.0). Os modelos ajustados de linguagem e praxias, o modelo teóricohipotético de memória verbal e o modelo alternativo de funções executivas apresentaram melhores indicadores de ajuste. Os resultados apontam evidências de validade das medidas de linguagem, memória, praxias e funções executivas do NEUPSILIN.
Neurobiology of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and its Frontostriatal Implications: a short review
Authors: Sánchez Castillo Hugo , Paz-Trejo Diana , Vazquéz Ramírez Josselyn , Zarate González Pavel , Migliaro Martin
Published: November 2014

Throughout its evolutionary course, stress has remained as an adaptive response to stimuli that may jeopardize the integrity of an organism. Within this perspective, we can classify the stressors as psychological,physical or harmful to cardiovascular stability. However, when intense stressful events occur, there is a possibility of developing PTSD. This disorder makes use of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, which is commonly activated during stress and is kept activated even when the stressful stimulus has ended months ago. The consequences of this condition are observed at the neuroendocrine, neurochemical and anatomical level. This review aims to give a brief report of the neurobiology of stress, PTSD, and its implications in various structures,such as the amygdala, hippocampus and prefrontal cortex.
Breed related odds ratio and anatomic distribution of canine mast cell tumours in Austria
Authors: Freeman K. , Kirtz G. , Hooijberg E. H. , Sick K. , Leidinger E. F.
Published: November 2014

Objective: An increased risk of mast cell tumours (MCT) in certain breeds has been described repeatedly in the literature. The incidence of MCTs for registered breeds in Austria, an estimate of the risk by means of the odds ratios based on breed as well as the anatomic localisation of MCTs were examined. Material and methods: In the first part of the study, the ranking of breeds in Austria based on 147,802 dogs with known breed (including mixed breed) was determined, based on those dogs included in the laboratory data base from 2000 to 2010. In the second part of the study, 476 dogs were identified with MCTs and analysed by age, sex, Patnaik grade of MCT and breed distribution. The odds ratios with confidence intervals were calculated for all breeds with skin tumours. Results: The age distribution showed a peak in the age group from 6.1 to 8.0 years; 70% of MCTs were localised to the head and trunk. No significant difference was found based on gender. The evaluation of the odds ratios showed that only four of the 20 of the most popular in Austria breeds (Boxer, Bernese Mountain Dog, Golden Retriever, Spaniel) had an increased risk; on the other hand, some breeds which have not been previously identified in the literature were indicated to have a significantly increased risk for MCT (e.g., Dogo Argentino, Tibetan Spaniel, Pyrenean Mountain Dog, Beauceron, and Austrian Smooth-haired Hound). Conclusion and clinical relevance: Because disease risk may influence the popularity of some currently rare breeds, consultation with breeders and owners regarding the identification of the breeds newly identified in this study as an increased risk for development of mast cell tumours is indicated.
PROGRAMAÇÃO LINEAR E OS CUSTOS PARA PLANEJAMENTO
Authors: Krauss Valter Augusto , Lyra Ricardo Luiz Wüst Corrêa de , Silva Tarcísio Pedro da
Published: November 2014

A regressão linear simples é uma ferramenta estatística muito útil para a área de ciências sociais, aplicável para analisar e predizer o valor de uma variável, sabendo-se o valor de outra. Com base em dados coletados sobre estas duas variáveis, obtém-se uma equação que serve para determinar valores de uma variável, quando conhecidos valores de outra, estimar valores de uma variável e predizer valores futuros. As técnicas de regressão e correlação referem-se à estimação de uma relação que possa existir em uma população. A regressão e a correlação baseiam-se em dados amostrais para determinar como duas variáveis são relacionadas entre si. A correlação fornece um número que resume o grau de relacionamento entre duas variáveis e a regressão tem como resultado uma equação matemática que descreve o relacionamento entre as variáveis.
Heterogeneity of riparian habitats mediates responses of terrestrial arthropods to a subsidy of Pacific salmon carcasses
Authors: Collins S. F. , Baxter C. V.
Published: November 2014

The transfer of nutrients and energy across habitat or ecosystem boundaries, or resource subsidies, is important in structuring ecological communities. Variation in biotic and abiotic characteristics of patches receiving resource subsidies may mediate their effects, including responses by consumers, however few studies have investigated this explicitly or the potential effects at broader spatial scales. To test the role recipient patches may play in mediating effects of a subsidy and consequences at larger reach scales, we conducted an experiment to evaluate changes in arthropod community composition and abundance in response to a subsidy of salmon carcasses in vegetated and un‐vegetated riparian patches, where carcasses are frequently deposited by animals, and how these patterns in patches mediate responses at reach scales. Arthropod community composition differed between habitats, and salmon additions yielded strong positive changes in arthropod abundance among select families. Four dipteran families responded positively to additions of carcasses to riparian habitats, and effects were generally stronger in vegetated habitats. Salmon carcasses in un‐vegetated habitats desiccated whereas in vegetated habitats they remained moist which likely facilitated rapid consumption. Of the five predatory arthropod families observed, only the coleopteran, Staphylinidae, increased in response to the salmon carcass subsidy, and only in vegetated habitats. Differences in effect size between habitats suggest selection of salmon carcasses by riparian arthropods changes with habitat context. Additionally, we detected significant increases in adult Calliphoridae biomass at reach scales, with the largest increases occurring at streams with more carcasses in vegetated patches. Our results show that the responses to the subsidy of salmon carcasses are not ubiquitous among riparian arthropods, nor are they spatially homogenous. Rather, our findings demonstrate that spatial variation in recipient habitat can mediate the responses of primary and secondary consumers to a subsidy, with effects manifesting at broader spatial extents, highlighting an additional means by which landscape heterogeneity influences the dynamics of food webs.
Experimental comparison of canal models for control purposes using simulation and laboratory experiments
Authors: Horváth Klaudia , Galvis Eduard , Rodellar José , Valentín Manuel Gómez
Published: November 2014

Considerable amounts of water can be saved by automating irrigation canals. The design of most of the practical automatic controllers rely on a simplified model of the irrigation canal. This model can be obtained from measured data (identification) or can be formulated (white box models) assuming simplifications in the physical concepts and using the canal geometry. Several models of this kind are presently available. Moreover, short canals reveal a resonance problem, due to the back and forth of waves. This paper is focused on how to choose a suitable model for short canal pools with the purpose of control design. Four simple models are applied to two different types (resonant and non-resonant) of short canals: First order transfer function based on the Hayami model, Muskingum model, Integrator Delay (ID), and Integrator Delay plus Zero (IDZ). Model predictive controllers are developed based on these models and they are tested numerically and experimentally in order to evaluate their contribution to the control effectiveness. The controllers based on the ID and IDZ model showed the best performance.
α-Kuramoto partitions from the frustrated Kuramoto model generalise equitable partitions
Authors: Kirkland Stephen , Severini Simone
Published: November 2014

The Kuramoto model describes the collective dynamics of a system of coupled
oscillators. An ?-Kuramoto partition is a graph partition induced by the
Kuramoto model, when the oscillators include a phase frustration parameter.
We prove that every equitable partition is an ?-Kuramoto partition, but
that the converse does necessarily not hold. We give an exact
characterization of ?-Kuramoto bipartitions.
Education in Post-Katrina New Orleans: Where are We Now and Where Might Imagination Take us?
Authors: Mirón Luis
Published: November 2014

In the nearly 10 years since Hurricane Katrina, the educational landscape of New Orleans has changed swiftly and dramatically. The educational and social consequences of the storm and subsequent reforms are highlighted in order to better understand the progress and obstacles that define New Orleans in the present moment. From everyday concerns facing students and families to more philosophical and political concerns facing policymakers and scholars, the experiences of New Orleans since 2005 provide fertile ground for imagining better public educational opportunities.
Comparison of pharmacokinetics of marbofloxacin after subcutaneous administration of various multiple-dose regimens to water buffalo calves (Bubalus bubalis)
Authors: Baroni Eduardo E. , Rubio Sonia , De Lucas José J. , Andrés María D. San , Andrés Manuel I. San
Published: November 2014

Objective—To determine pharmacokinetics of marbofloxacin in water buffalo calves (Bubalus bubalis) after multiple SC administrations and to assess differences in regimen efficacy.

Animals—18 healthy buffalo calves.

Procedures—Calves (n = 6 calves/group) were assigned to receive marbofloxacin SC in the neck at 1 of 3 dosages (2 mg/kg, q 24 h for 6 days [regimen 1]; 4 mg/kg, q 48 h for 6 days [regimen 2]; and 4 mg/kg, q 24 h for 3 days [regimen 3]). Serum marbofloxacin concentrations were analyzed. Efficacy predictors were estimated on the basis of minimum inhibitory concentration and mutant prevention concentration reported for Pasteurella multocida and Mannheimia haemolytica.

Results—Mean ± SD area under the concentration-time curve was 5.92 ± 0.40 μg•h/mL for regimen 1, which differed significantly from that for regimens 2 (14.26 ± 0.92 μg•h/mL) and 3 (14.17 ± 0.51 μg•h/mL). Mean residence time and mean elimination half-life for regimen 2 (9.93 ± 0.20 hours and 8.77 ± 0.71 hours) both differed significantly from those for regimens 1 (721 ± 0.11 hours and 5.71 ± 0.38 hours) and 3 (759 ± 0.13 hours and 737 ± 1.19 hours). Values obtained from indices for P multocida and M haemolytica had an excessively wide range because of the various degrees of antimicrobial susceptibility (low, medium, and high) of the strains.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Regimen 3 had the most favorable indices, and it would be conducive for owner compliance and require less handling of animals.
Identification of potential biomarkers of P-glycoprotein substrate neurotoxicity in transgenic mice expressing the mutated canine ABCB1 gene
Authors: Zhu Min , Ming Yi , Swaim Heidi , Swain Marla D. , Myers Michael J. , Deaver Christine , Wu Xiaolin , Jones Yolanda L. , Yancy Haile F.
Published: November 2014

Objective—To identify biomarkers of P-glycoprotein (P-gp) substrate neurotoxicity in transgenic mice expressing the mutant canine ABCB1 gene (ABCB1-1Δ).

Animals—8 ABCB1 knock-in and knock-out transgenic mice expressing the ABCB1-1Δ gene and 8 control mice expressing the wild-type canine ABCB1 gene (ABCB1-WT).

Procedures—Groups including 2 ABCB1-1Δ mutant mice and 2 ABCB1-WT mice were administered the P-gp substrates ivermectin (10 mg/kg, SC), doramectin (10 mg/kg, SC), moxidectin (10 mg/kg, PO), or digoxin (1.53 mg/kg, SC). A toxicogenomic approach based on DNA microarrays was used to examine whole-genome expression changes in mice administered P-gp substrates.

Results—Compared with control ABCB1-WT mice, ABCB1-1Δ mutant mice developed neurotoxic signs including ataxia, lethargy, and tremors similar to those reported for dogs with the ABCB1-1Δ mutation. Microarray analysis revealed that gene expression was altered in ABCB1-1Δ mutant mice, compared with findings for ABCB1-WT mice, following administration of the same P-gp substrates. Gene pathway analysis revealed that genes with a ≥ 2-fold gene expression change were associated with behavior and nervous system development and function. Moreover, 34 genes were altered in the ABCB1-1Δ mutant mice in all 4 drug treatment groups. These genes were also associated with behavior, which was identified as the top-ranked gene network.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—These study data have facilitated understanding of the molecular mechanisms of neurotoxicosis in ABCB1-1Δ mutant mice following exposure to various P-gp substrates. Some genes appear to be potential biomarkers of P-gp substrate neurotoxicity that might be used to predict the safety of those drugs in dogs with the ABCB1-1Δ mutation.
A clinicopathological study of dysfunctional uterine bleeding
Authors: Katuwal N , Gurung G , Rana A , Jha A
Published: November 2014

Background: Dysfunctional uterine bleeding is a form of abnormal uterine bleeding when there is absence of organic disease of the genital tract. The objective of this study was to find out the clinical and pathological aspect of women presenting with dysfunctional uterine bleeding.Materials and Methods: A descriptive study was conducted over a period of one year from April 14th 2010 to April 13th 2011 in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology and Department of Pathology, Tribhuvan University Teaching Hospital, Kathmandu, Nepal. A complete history, clinical examination, pelvic scan, hormonal status if required and endometrial biopsy were done to diagnose dysfunctional uterine bleeding.Results: A total of 120 cases were included. The age of the patients diagnosed dysfunctional uterine bleeding were ranging from 24 -63 years. Dysfunctional uterine bleeding was most common in the age group 40-44 yrs (30%) followed by 45-49 yrs (27.5%). Menorrhagia (41.7%) was the most common presenting sign. Majority histopathology of endometrium revealed anovulatory pattern (61.7%) followed by ovulatory (38.3%). Of the cases with an anovulatory pattern 48.6% was proliferative endometrium, 33.8% disordered proliferative endometrium, 6.8%atrophic, 5.4% weakly proliferative and 2.7% each of simple hyperplasia without atypia and complex hyperplasia with atypia. All cases with ovulatory pattern showed secretory endometrium.Conclusion: Dysfunctional uterine bleeding was the most common in the perimenopausal age group and chiefly in the form of an anovulatory endometrium. . Histopathological evaluation of endometrium helps exclude the local causes and establishes the diagnosis of dysfunctional uterine bleeding, its types, and clinical correlation to histopathological findings and finally helps to determine the mode of management.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jpn.v4i8.11500 Journal of Pathology of Nepal; Vol.4,No. 8 (2014) 635-638
Evaluation of AgNoR scores in aspiration cytology smears of breast lesions and their correlation with histopathology
Authors: Nepal N , Talwar OP
Published: November 2014

Background: Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in Asia. The number of intra-nuclear silver stained structures, termed AgNORs, is significantly higher in malignant cells than in normal, reactive or benign cells. The main purpose of this study was to evaluate the AgNOR scores in aspiration cytology smears of breast lesions and their correlation with histopathology.Materials and Methods: This was a prospective study conducted over a period of 24 months from October, 2009 to 2011. A total of 40 cases were included in the study, including fine needle aspiration and biopsy. AgNOR stain was done in both cytology and histopathology slides and scoring was done and analyzed.Results: The mean AgNOR counts were 1.734 for benign cases and 4.508 for malignant cases. Statistically significant ‘P’ value < 0.05 for both benign and malignant cases was observed. The AgNOR dots morphology was homogenous, symmetric with regular contours in both FNAC and histopathology slides of benign breast lesion. In malignant breast lesions, the dots were asymmetric with irregular contours and were aggregated, smaller and more scatteredConclusion: The mAgNOR counts were significantly higher in smears from malignant breast lesions than in those from benign. These results were similar to those obtained for tissue sections and were comparable to established data. Both AgNOR counts and SAPA score gave similar results done in this study, indicating that SAPA is also as convenient, reproducible and rapid method of AgNOR evaluation.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jpn.v4i8.11592 Journal of Pathology of Nepal; Vol.4,No. 8 (2014) 649-653
Leiomyoma on the penile shaft
Authors: Gautam K , Pyakurel D , Amatya U
Published: November 2014

Primary soft tissue tumors of the penis, such as leiomyomas, are very rare. To the best of our knowledge, less than ten cases have been reported till date. The lesion gradually increases in size and can mimic a malignant lesion. Excisional biopsy and histopathological examination can provide the diagnosis as well as cure, both physical and psychological. We report a case of a penile shaft leiomyoma in a 49 year old male.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jpn.v4i8.11598 Journal of Pathology of Nepal; Vol.4,No. 8 (2014) 680-681
Survival for 38 years with Animal-type malignant melanoma
Authors: Ranabhat S , Tiwari M , Maharjan S , Shrestha R , Pandey CP
Published: November 2014

Animal-type melanoma is a low-grade malignant tumor with a good prognosis. Although it is common in old grey horses, the tumor is exceedingly rare in humans. Only 173 cases have been reported till 2011. We report a case in a 38-year-old woman who had the neoplasm in the left labium majus since birth. The tumor was composed of heavily melanized polygonal tumor cells with mildly atypical nuclei proliferating diffusely and in nests in the dermis and subcutis with invasion of hair follicles and nerve bundles. Mitotic figures were not seen. Regional lymph nodes were not enlarged. Present case describes a patient with animal-type melanoma who has had the lesion since birth and who is still living despite having the tumor for 38 years. It attests to the fact that this tumor has indolent biologic behaviour despite being malignant. Mistaking this case for other highly pigmented melanocytic tumors, benign or malignant, is a potential diagnostic pitfall.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jpn.v4i8.11599 Journal of Pathology of Nepal; Vol.4,No. 8 (2014) 685-687
Extra - Intestinal Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor of Omentum
Authors: Basnet S , Lakhey A
Published: November 2014

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors are rare tumors, constituting less than 3% of all gastrointestinal malignant neoplasms but are the most common mesenchymal tumors of the gastrointestinal tract. Approximately 10% of gastrointestinal stromal tumors are extraintestinal and mostly arise from the mesentery or omentum. Here we report a rare case of an extraintestinal gastrointestinal stromal tumor of mesentery. Morphological and immunohistochemical features led to a diagnosis of extra-gastrointestinal stromal tumor.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jpn.v4i8.11610 Journal of Pathology of Nepal; Vol.4,No. 8 (2014) 682-684
The influence of addition of citric acid on the physical properties of metallic oxide nanorods via Sol-Gel route preparation
Authors: Yang Zao , Zhang Fuquan , Liu Quanhui , Gu Zhongwei , Zhang Xingdong , Wang Yunbin
Published: November 2014

ZnO nanorods of 25 – 100 nm in diameter and 0.2 – 1 lm in length were fabricated through a citric acid assisted annealing process. The nanorods were characterized by means of X-ray diffraction, field-emission scanning electron microscopy, fourier transform infrared spectroscopy spectrophotometry, ultraviolet visible spectroscopy and photoluminescence spectroscopy. The obtained ZnO nanorods have good crystal quality and excellent optical properties. The effects of addition of citric acid with Chirality Multi-acid Chemistry function on the optical properties of ZnO nanorods have been investigated.
MicroRNA Signatures as Biomarkers and Therapeutic Target for CNS Embryonal Tumors: The Pros and the Cons
Authors: Shalaby Tarek , Fiaschetti Giulio , Baumgartner Martin , Grotzer Michael
Published: November 2014

Embryonal tumors of the central nervous system represent a heterogeneous group of childhood cancers with an unknown pathogenesis; diagnosis, on the basis of histological appearance alone, is controversial and patients’ response to therapy is difficult to predict. They encompass medulloblastoma, atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumors and a group of primitive neuroectodermal tumors. All are aggressive tumors with the tendency to disseminate throughout the central nervous system. The large amount of genomic and molecular data generated over the last 5–10 years encourages optimism that new molecular targets will soon improve outcomes. Recent neurobiological studies have uncovered the key role of microRNAs (miRNAs) in embryonal tumors biology and their potential use as biomarkers is increasingly being recognized and investigated. However the successful use of microRNAs as reliable biomarkers for the detection and management of pediatric brain tumors represents a substantial challenge. This review debates the importance of miRNAs in the biology of central nervous systemembryonal tumors focusing on medulloblastoma and atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumors and highlights the advantages as well as the limitations of their prospective application as biomarkers and candidates for molecular therapeutic targets.