bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genetic Diversity and Structure of Ruzigrass Germplasm Collected in Africa and Brazil
Authors: Pessoa‐Filho Marco , Azevedo Ana Luisa S. , Sobrinho Fausto S. , Gouvea Ediene G. , Martins Alexandre M. , Ferreira Márcio E.
Published: September 2015

Ruzigrass [Urochloa ruziziensis (R. Germain & Evrard) Crins, syn. Brachiaria ruziziensis Germain & Evrard] is a tropical forage native to Africa, first introduced in Brazil in the 1960s. Ruzigrass is diploid, presents sexual reproduction, and is a model species for the generation of genomic resources in the Brachiaria genus. Brachiaria species are the most important livestock forage in the tropics, covering more than 70 million ha in Brazil alone. We have used multiplex panels of microsatellite markers to characterize the genetic diversity of ruzigrass germplasm collected in Africa, and of a local population collected in Brazil, to obtain information for its conservation and use in breeding programs. Fifteen SSR markers were used to Genotype 114 ruzigrass samples. Summary statistics, as well as estimates of FST and partitioning of genetic diversity were obtained. Clustering and genetic structure analyses were performed. Results showed high values of heterozygosity in the African and Brazilian populations. Although African and Brazilian samples formed distinct groups in clustering analyses, and Bayesian analysis of genetic structure distributed samples into three clusters, estimates of pairwise FST values showed no differentiation between African and Brazilian groups of samples. Results indicated that the introduction of ruzigrass in Brazil did not cause a major decrease in genetic diversity. Brazilian local populations might harbor favorable alleles that will be useful for ongoing and future breeding programs. They offer great opportunities for ruzigrass germplasm collection and conservation of genetic diversity, before attempts to access germplasm in its center of diversity are undertaken.
Is There a Role for Sink Size in Understanding Maize Population–Yield Relationships?
Authors: Egli D. B.
Published: September 2015

The most consistent change in management practices associated with the increase in maize (Zea mays L.) yield in the United States since 1930 has been a steady increase in plant population. Populations increased from roughly 30,000 plants ha–1 at the beginning of the hybrid era to >75,000 plants ha–1 in recent years. The purpose of this review was to evaluate the potential role of sink size in historic maize yield–population relationships. The steady increase in yield (∼4×) during the hybrid era required an increase in source activity since there was no change in harvest index. The increase in grain yield was associated with an increase in kernels per unit area, so there was a concomitant increase in both source and sink. Data collected from the literature and evaluations of hybrids from different eras demonstrate that ear size (kernels per ear) of U.S. and Canadian hybrids did not increase during the hybrid era. Ears per plant did not increase above an average of one. Since ear size and prolificacy did not change, higher plant populations were needed to increase sink size (ears and kernels per unit area). This approach to analyzing population–yield relationships suggests that higher populations didn't necessarily contribute directly to higher productivity; rather, the increase in sink size avoided a sink limitation and allowed the higher productivity of the source to be translated into grain yield. Future yield increases will, therefore, require even higher populations which could create new management challenges.
Currency crises in EU candidate countries: An early warning system approach
Authors: Bucevska Vesna
Published: September 2015

The purpose of this paper is to develop an econometric model of early warning
system (EWS) for predicting currency crises in EU candidate countries. Using
actual quarterly panel data for three EU candidate countries (Croatia,
Macedonia and Turkey) in the period January 2005 - June 2010, we estimate a
binomial logit model, which accurately predicts potential episodes of
outbreak of currency crisis. In addition, we find that real GDP growth rate,
participation in an IMF loan program, current account and fiscal balance and
short-term external indebtedness are the most significant common predictors
of currency crises across EU candidate countries. These results imply
implementing policy measures aimed at raising the growth potential of the
domestic economies of EU candidate countries, monitoring their short-term
external indebtedness, improving their external competitiveness, cutting
public spending and increasing the confidence of residents and non-residents
in their domestic banking sectors.
Reducing conspiracy theory beliefs
Authors: Stojanov Ana
Published: September 2015

This study aimed to look at possible ways to reduce beliefs in conspiracy
theories and increase the intention to have a fictitious child vaccinated.
One hundred and sixty participants answered an online questionnaire. Three
groups were used. The control group did not read any text prior to answering
whereas the two experimental groups read either only debunking information or
information about the motives of the conspiracists and the fallacy in their
reasoning in addition to the debunking paragraph. The second experimental
manipulation was effective in reducing medical conspiracy theories beliefs,
but not belief in conspiracy theories in general. Neither intervention was
effective in increasing the likelihood to have a fictitious child vaccinated.
Those not intending to vaccinate a fictitious child endorsed conspiracy
theories to a greater degree. A positive correlation between beliefs in
conspiracy theories and the experiential/intuitive information processing
system was found.
Seroprevalence of Trichinella Spp. in Pigs and Knowledge, Attitude and Practices of Pig Farmers of Eastern and Midwestern Regions of Nepal
Authors: Kathayat Dipak , Shrestha Swoyam P. , Dhakal Santosh , Ghimire Laxman , K.C. Mahesh
Published: September 2015

A cross-sectional study was conducted on four major pig raising districts of eastern and mid-western region of Nepal from February to May 2014 to find out the seroprevalence of Trichinella spp. A total of 184 serum samples of pigs were collected and antibodies against trichinella were detected using ID screen trichinella indirect multi- species ELISA kit. The study revealed prevalence rate of 3.8% and difference in prevalence rate according to age, sex, breed, rearing system, ecozone, region & district were statistically insignificant (P>0.05) as analysed by Chi-square test using PHStat version 2.5 and Fisher’s exact test. This study confirms that antibodies of Trichinella spp. are circulating in pigs of Nepal. Further, the knowledge, attitude and practices survey of meat borne helminthic zoonoses was conducted among 50 pig raisers and pork consumers by face to face interview using a semi-structure questionnaire. This survey concludes that although there were significant portion of the respondents aware of meat borne helminthic zoonoses but there were still a noticeable proportion of respondents who didn’t have a proper knowledge that upsurge public health risks. Moreover, present-day situation of their pig raising practices & pork consumption system possess them to a menace of public health zoonoses. be done for enhancing the potential of isolates.  Int J Appl Sci Biotechnol, Vol 3(3): 402-407
Study on Effect of Supplementary Irrigation on Rainfed Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.)
Authors: Acharya Nav Raj , Shrestha Jiban , Sharma Subarna , Lama Gun Bahadur
Published: September 2015

Chickpea is one of the important winter legumes in Nepal. It is grown after rice or maize either as sole or mixed crop. In Nepal, chickpea is mostly grown as rainfed crop on residual soil moisture or sometimes under irrigation. Lack of irrigation results drought and heat stress which affects crop growth and development. Irrigation at proper time is one of the most important factors for achieving higher crop yield.  The experiment regarding use of supplementary irrigation time on chickpea was carried out at Regional Agricultural Research Station, Khajura, Banke, Nepal during the winter season of the year 2011 and 2012. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications. Seven different time intervals of irrigation was applied in the experiment for both years. Treatments differed significantly in terms of grain yield but showed non -significant difference in days to flowering and maturity over the years. The combined analysis of the experiments showed that the highest grain yield (2318 kg/ha) was produced when irrigation was supplied at vegetative stage followed by irrigation supplied at flowering stage (2298 kg/ha) and pod fill stage (2104 kg/ha) respectively.Int J Appl Sci Biotechnol, Vol 3(3): 431-433
Establishment of Enzyme Inhibitory Activities of Lovastatin, Isolated From Pleurotus ostreatus
Authors: Talkad Muralidhar S. , Das Rajat K. , Bhattacharjee Preetham , Ghosh Sagnik , Shivajirao Undre Prasad
Published: September 2015

Enzyme inhibition is significant biological process to characterize the enzyme reaction, extraction of catalysis parameters in bio-industry and bioengineering. The enzyme inhibitors are low molecular weight chemical compounds. Inhibitor can modify one amino acid, or several side chain(s) required in enzyme catalytic activity. To protect enzyme catalytic site from any change, ligand binds with critical side chain in enzyme. Safely, chemical modification can be done to test inhibitor for any drug value. In the present day world they are known for culinary values due to their high-quality proteins, vitamins, fibers and many medicinal properties and accordingly they are called nutraceuticals. Overproduction of ROS can damage cellular biomolecules like nucleic acids, proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, proteins and enzymes resulting in several diseases. The chemical nature of the bioactive compounds present in this mushroom includes: polysaccharides, lipopolysaccharides, proteins, peptides, glycoproteins, lectins, lipids and their derivatives. We report the presence of Statins in fruiting bodies and fermentation processes from Pleurotus ostreatus. Lovastatin extracted from the Pleurotus ostreatus showed Anti-oxidant Activity when compared with Standard Quercetin, IC50 values of 3.5?g/ml and 7.5 ?g/ml respectively, amylase Assay the percentage inhibitions of 35% and 70 % with 1 and 3 mg/ml respectively. In Membrane Stability assay, the percentage inhibitions of 47.06% and 50%. Acid Phosphatase Assay: percentage inhibitions of 82.78% and 76.11% with 2mg/ml and 4mg/ml respectively. Pleurotus possess a good antioxidant and enzyme inhibitions for Alpha Amylase, Acid Phosphatase and membrane stability studies, hence as health promoter and environmental restorer is gaining more importance.Int J Appl Sci Biotechnol, Vol 3(3): 408-416
Assessment of Heavy Metals in Roadside Surface Soil and Vegetation along Mubi – Michika Major Road in Adamawa State, Nigeria
Authors: Alexander Priscilla
Published: September 2015

The study of heavy metals in environmental niches is essential, especially with their potential toxicity to human life. To identify the levels of heavy metals in roadside environment, samples of roadside soils and vegetation were collected from ten (10) towns along the Mubi - Michika major road which include Mubi, Mararaba, Dzakwa, Hildi, Uba, Kudzum, Dilchim, Bazza, Watu and Michika. Subsequently, the concentrations of heavy metals particularly Cu, Pb, Cr, Fe and Cd in the samples were analyzed using atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AAS). The result revealed that Cu, Pb, Cr, Fe, and Cd were present in the soil, at the mean concentration ranged of Cu (0.20±0.01 to 1.16±0.20%), Cd (0.04±0.03 to 0.13±0.05%), Zn (6.30±0.01 to 13.90±0.23%), Pb (1.32±0.03 to 5.63±0.04%), Fe (12.00±0.20 to 32.92±0.42%), and Cr (0.04±0.02 to 0.09±0.03%). The concentrations of the heavy metals in plant leaves samples ranged from Cu (0.01±0.03 to 0.93±0.01%), Cd (0.01±0.03 to 0.09±0.02%), Zn (2.40±0.03% to 7.10+0.14%), Pb (0.26±0.01 to 2.16±0.01%), Fe (5.10±0.01 to 15.00±0.14%) and Cr (0.01±0.03 to 0.03±0.13%). The Pb concentrations in both soil and plant leaves were found to be in excess of FAO/WHO recommended limits. While the levels of the other heavy metals in both soil and plants leaves were found to be within the FAO/WHO recommended limits. The high level of Pb indicates potential health risk for human through the food chain. From the study, the heavy metals pollutant in roadside soil and vegetation along Mubi-Michika roadside villages might originate from common anthropogenic source and high rate of human activities such as automobile emission.Int J Appl Sci Biotechnol, Vol 3(3): 545-551
Morphological Divergence of Snow Trout (Schizothorax Richardsonii, Gray 1932) from Rivers of Nepal with Insights from a Morphometric Analysis
Authors: Wagle Suresh Kumar , Pradhan Neeta , Shrestha Madhav Kumar
Published: September 2015

Asala or snow trout (Schizothorax richardsonii, Cyprinidae), one of highly valued freshwater fish of Transhimalayan regions, is distributed in upper reaches of all major river systems of Nepal. Morphometric diversification between six river populations of S. richardsonii was examined to identify intraspecific unit for enabling better management of the resources. Significant differences were observed in 17 measured morphometric characters of 207 specimens among the six river populations. Multivariate analysis of variance (Wilks' test) indicated a significant difference for mean vectors of mophometric measurements (? =0.012, F85, 731 = 19.999, P<0.0001) among populations. Principal component and discriminant functions (DFs) analysis of morphometric measurements revealed high seperation of the stocks. The analysis showed that most of the shape and size variation among these populations occurs in the head region, body depth and fin length. Apparent morphometric divergence among S. richardsonii samples showed the existence of three differentiated groups viz., the Indrawati and Khudi populations, the Melamchi and Phalaku Rivers, and the Sabha and Tadi River populations of Nepal. The results of this study may be useful in fisheries management and potential exploitation of this species in coldwater aquaculture.Int J Appl Sci Biotechnol, Vol 3(3): 464-473
Thermo Stability Study of Crude Amylase from Bacillus Isolate
Authors: Lal Moti , Verma Shiv Kumar , Mishra Vipin , Debnath Mira
Published: September 2015

An amylolytic strain was collected from rotten potato and its activity evaluated. The isolated strain was cultivated for amylase production in shake flasks at 35±2oC and the fermentation pattern was studied. Optimum temperature for maximum enzyme synthesis was observed at 35°C, when initial pH of fermentation medium was adjusted to 5.5. Maximum extracellular amylase activity of 7.9 U/mL and the maximum intracellular activity of 320 U/mL was recorded. Although maximum biomass was present at 12.6 g/L but highest growth rate was observed between 08 to 40h with maximum at 36h. The extracellular amylase present in the broth was partially purified with an overall yield of 44% through purification procedure of ammonium sulphate precipitation. After completed extraction and partial purification and stabilization, the stability of enzyme was observed in a range of temperature and pH between 60°C-90°C and 2-8 pH respectively. Maximum enzyme activity was demonstrated at 90°C, and pH of 5.5 and 6.5. The thermo stability of the amylases of this Bacillus species was comparable to that of amylases from other microbial sources.Int J Appl Sci Biotechnol, Vol 3(3): 427-430
Use of Chemical Fungicides for the Management of Rice Blast (Pyricularia Grisea) Disease at Jyotinagar, Chitwan, Nepal
Authors: Magar Prem Bahadur , Acharya Basistha , Pandey Bishnu
Published: September 2015

Rice blast caused by Pyricularia grisea Sacc. is the important disease of rice and different fungicides against this disease were evaluated in summer 2014 at Karma Research and Development Center, Jyotinagar, Chitwan, Nepal. A susceptible rice cultivar ‘Mansuli’ was planted in randomized complete block design and fungicides viz. Tricyclazole  22% + Hexaconazole 3% SC (0.2%), Streptomycin 5% + Thiophanate Methyl 50% WP (0.15%), Prochloraz 25% EC (0.3%), Kasugamycin 2% WP (0.2%), Hexaconazole 4% + Zineb 68 % WP (0.2%) and Udaan (Hexaconazole 3% SC) (0.2%) were sprayed thrice at weekly interval starting from the booting stage. All these fungicides were found to be effective in controlling leaf and neck blast disease as compare to control one. Among them, Tricyclazole 22% + Hexaconazole 3% SC was found to be the most effective with least leaf blast severity (6.23%), neck blast incidence (8.97%), and highest percentage disease control (87.08% and 79.62% in leaf blast and neck blast respectively) and grain yield (4.23 t/ha) followed by Prochloraz 25% EC (0.3%) and Udaan (Hexaconazole 3% SC) (0.2%). It is therefore concluded that Tricyclazole 22% + Hexaconazole 3% SC fungicide could be used to control rice blast at weekly interval starting from the booting stage for three times. Int J Appl Sci Biotechnol, Vol 3(3): 474-478
Effect of Nitrogen and Boron in Seed Yield and Yield Attributing Characters of Broccoli
Authors: Khanal A.
Published: September 2015

Plant nutrient is one of the limiting factors affecting crop production. Nitrogen and boron are major nutrients in case of broccoli. So, an experiment was carried out to evaluate the effect of nitrogen and boron in seed yield and yield attributing characters of broccoli in Rampur, Chitwan during winter season. The experiment was laid out in factorial RCBD design with four levels of nitrogen and two levels of boron. Each plot consists of 25 plants which were separated by 60 * 60 cm spacing. There are altogether eight treatments replicates thrice. Local variety Calabrese was used.  Significant effect of different dose of nitrogen and boron on yield attributing characters was found. Also interactive effect of nitrogen and boron in number of pods, pod length, seed yield and number of seeds per pod was found significantly different.Int J Appl Sci Biotechnol, Vol 3(3): 541-544
Deflection measurement in low-blow Charpy impact tests
Authors: Henschel Sebastian , Krüger Lutz
Published: September 2015

The determination of velocity and displacement evolution of the specimen in a low-blow Charpy impact test was critically analyzed. To this end, a laser-based measurement of velocity and displacement was applied in addition to the standard integration procedure. The applicability of this non-contact method was investigated with respect to the measurement of velocity and detection of vibrations. It was shown that the velocity of the specimen could be determined in the case of unnotched specimens as well as of notched and precracked specimens. Utilizing the velocity evolution of the specimen determined by the laser, the dynamic force calibration was possible. The high sensitivity of the laser measurement to changes in velocity enabled the detection of pop-ins and, in some cases, the detection of stable crack initiation. The analysis of the specimen vibration frequency directly after the test could be utilized to estimate the final crack length.
Electrical conductivity and hardness of ternary Ge-In-Sb allyos and calculation of the isothermal section at 300 °C
Authors: Premović Milena , Minić Duško , Mitrovica Kosovska , Manasijević Ivana , Živković Dragana
Published: September 2015

This publication presents results of experimental investigation and thermodynamic calculation of the ternary Ge-In-Sb system. Isothermal section of the Ge-In-Sb system at 300 °C has been extrapolated using optimized thermodynamic parameters for the constitutive binary systems. Microstructure analysis was carried out by light microscope, scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive spectrometry and X-ray powder diffraction methods and obtained results were compared with predicted phase equilibria. Hardness of selected alloys annealed at 300 °C was measured using Vickers microhardness test and Brinell hardness test. Electrical conductivity of a number of alloys annealed at 300 °C was experimentally determined. Good overall agreement between experimental and calculated values was obtained.
Properties, structure and creep resistance of austenitic steel Super 304H
Authors: Zieliński Adam , Dobrzański Janusz , Purzyńska Hanna , Golański Grzegorz
Published: September 2015

This paper presents selected material characteristics of Super 304H austenitic steel used for elements of boilers with super- and ultra-critical steam parameters. In particular, abridged and long-term creep tests with and without elongation measurement during testing and investigations of microstructural changes due to long-term impact of temperature and stress were carried out. The practical aspect of the use of creep test and structure investigation results in forecasting the durability of materials operating under creep conditions was presented. The characteristics of steels with regard to creep tests and structure investigations developed in this paper are used for estimation of changes in functional properties of the material of elements operating under creep conditions.
Microstructure of Al-5Ti-0.6C-1Ce master alloy and its grain-refining performance
Authors: Ding Wanwu , Zhang Xiaoyu , Zhao Wenjun , Xia Tiandong
Published: September 2015

Al-5Ti-0.6C-1Ce master alloy has been successfully prepared by a method of thermal explosion reaction in pure molten aluminum. The microstructure of the alloy was characterized by means of optical microscopy, X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy equipped with energy-dispersive spectrometry. The results showed that the Al-5Ti-0.6C-1Ce alloy was composed of α-Al, granular TiC, lump-like TiAl3 and block-like Ti2Al20Ce. When compared with the Al-5Ti-0.6C master alloy, the formation of Ti2Al20Ce compounds and the addition of Ce accelerated the formation of TiC. An excellent grain-refining performance was obtained when the addition level of Al-5Ti-0.6C-1Ce reached 0.5 wt.%. The effect of Ce on the synthesis of TiC and refinement mechanism of Al-5Ti-0.6C-1Ce has also been discussed.
Was Hitler Ill? A Reply to Eberle and Neumann
Authors: Kaplan Robert M.
Published: September 2015

Hitler’s health, both physical and mental, remains a contentious topic with regular attempts to reach a finding. Was Hitler Ill: A Final Diagnosis? published in 2012 by Henrik Eberle and Hans-Joachim Neumann with a review of the latest documentation, claims to be the definitive account, finding that, aside from routine illness at times, he did not have any health problems.1 This account, however, is challenged by the evidence—documented on film and by observers—that Hitler had Parkinson’s Syndrome (PS). There is a strong case that this arose from encephalitis lethargica, acquired during service on the Western front. The finding that Hitler was not unwell, aside from routine health issues, cannot be sustained.
Book Reviews
Authors: Davidson-Schmich Louise K. , Yoder Jennifer A. , Eigler Friederike , Mushaben Joyce M. , Schwell Alexandra , Karcher Katharina
Published: September 2015

Konrad H. Jarausch, United Germany: Debating Processes and Prospects

Reviewed by Louise K. Davidson-Schmich

Nick Hodgin and Caroline Pearce, ed. The GDR Remembered:Representations of the East German State since 1989

Reviewed by Jennifer A. Yoder

Andrew Demshuk, The Lost German East: Forced Migration and the Politics of Memory, 1945-1970

Reviewed by Friederike Eigler

Peter H. Merkl, Small Town & Village in Bavaria: The Passing of a Way of Life

Reviewed by Joyce M. Mushaben

Barbara Thériault, The Cop and the Sociologist. Investigating Diversity in German Police Forces

Reviewed by Alexandra Schwell

Clare Bielby, Violent Women in Print: Representations in the West German Print Media of the 1960s and 1970s

Reviewed by Katharina Karcher

Michael David-Fox, Peter Holquist, and Alexander M. Martin, ed., Fascination and Enmity: Russia and Germany as Entangled Histories, 1914-1945

Reviewed by Jennifer A. Yoder
Functional MRI, resting state fMRI, and DTI for predicting verbal fluency outcome following resective surgery for temporal lobe epilepsy
Authors: Osipowicz Karol , Sperling Michael R. , Sharan Ashwini D. , Tracy Joseph I.
Published: September 2015

OBJECT

Predicting cognitive function following resective surgery remains an important clinical goal. Each MRI neuroimaging technique can potentially provide unique and distinct insight into changes that occur in the structural or functional organization of “at-risk” cognitive functions. The authors tested for the singular and combined power of 3 imaging techniques (functional MRI [fMRI], resting state fMRI, diffusion tensor imaging) to predict cognitive outcome following left (dominant) anterior temporal lobectomy for intractable epilepsy.

METHODS

The authors calculated the degree of deviation from normal, determined the rate of change in this measure across the pre- and postsurgical imaging sessions, and then compared these measures for their ability to predict verbal fluency changes following surgery.

RESULTS

The data show that the 3 neuroimaging techniques, in a combined model, can reliably predict cognitive outcome following anterior temporal lobectomy for medically intractable temporal lobe epilepsy.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that these 3 imaging modalities can be used effectively, in an additive fashion, to predict functional reorganization and cognitive outcome following anterior temporal lobectomy.
Rosuvastatin for enhancement of aneurysm neck endothelialization after coil embolization: promotion of endothelial progenitor cells in a rodent model
Authors: Liu Peixi , An Qingzhu , Chen Xi , Huang Jun , Yang Guo-Yuan , Zhu Wei
Published: September 2015

OBJECT

Coil embolization is a safe, efficient, and minimally invasive technique for the treatment of intracranial aneurysms. However, coil embolization is associated with a higher risk of recurrence than clip ligation. In this study, the authors explore a new approach through the promotion of endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) to optimize endothelialization of the aneurysm neck and reduce the risk of recurrence.

METHODS

A coiled aneurysm model was created in 48 adult male Sprague-Dawley rats via microsurgery. Half of these animals were treated with rosuvastatin (20 mg/kg) in saline via gavage for 10, 20, or 30 days. The other half were administered saline without rosuvastatin. An additional 15 rats underwent “mock surgery” (identical anesthesia and saline gavage but no surgery). The endothelial repair process in the coiled aneurysms was evaluated via flow cytometry, im-munostaining, and electronic microscopy. The mock surgery group was used for comparison in flow cytometry studies. The effects of rosuvastatin on viability and functioning of Sprague-Dawley rat bone marrow-derived EPCs were also explored via MTT, migration, and tube formation assays.

RESULTS

The aneurysm neck repair score was significantly higher in the rosuvastatin-treated rats than in the untreated rats (p < 0.05). The circulating EPC count was increased and maintained at a higher level in rosuvastatin-treated rats compared with the aneurysm rats that did not receive rosuvastatin (p < 0.05). Immunostaining showed that the aneurysm neck endothelium was more integrated and the number of kinase insert domain receptor-positive cells was increased in the rosuvastatin-treated rats. Further study demonstrated that rosuvastatin promoted EPC proliferation, migration, and tube formation.

CONCLUSIONS

Rosuvastatin promoted endothelialization of the coiled aneurysm neck via induction of EPCs, suggesting that promoting endothelialization provides an additional therapeutic opportunity during vascular endothelium repair.
A systematic review of clinical and surgical predictors of complications following surgery for degenerative cervical myelopathy
Authors: Tetreault Lindsay , Ibrahim Ahmed , Côté Pierre , Singh Anoushka , Fehlings Michael G.
Published: September 2015

OBJECT

Although generally safe and effective, surgery for the treatment of cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) is associated with complications in 11%–38% of patients. Several predictors of postoperative complications have been proposed but few are used to detect high-risk patients. A standard approach to identifying “at-risk” patients would improve surgeons’ ability to prevent and manage these complications. The authors aimed to compare the complication rates between various surgical procedures used to treat CSM and to identify patient-specific, clinical, imaging, and surgical predictors of complications.

METHODS

The authors conducted a systematic review of the literature and searched MEDLINE, MEDLINE in Process, EMBASE, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials from 1948 to September 2013. Cohort studies designed to evaluate predictors of complications and intervention studies conducted to compare different surgical approaches were included. Each article was critically appraised independently by 2 reviewers, and the evidence was synthesized according to the principles outlined by the Grading of Recommendation Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) Working Group.

RESULTS

A total of 5472 citations were retrieved. Of those, 60 studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in the review. These studies included 36 prognostic cohort studies and 28 comparative intervention studies. High evidence suggests that older patients are at a greater risk of perioperative complications. Based on low evidence, other clinical factors such as body mass index, smoking status, duration of symptoms, and baseline severity score, are not predictive of complications. With respect to surgical factors, low to moderate evidence suggests that estimated blood loss, surgical approach, and number of levels do not affect rates of complications. A longer operative duration (moderate evidence), however, is predictive of perioperative complications and a 2-stage surgery is related to an increased risk of major complications (high evidence). In terms of surgical techniques, higher rates of neck pain were found in patients undergoing laminoplasty compared with anterior spinal fusion (moderate evidence). In addition, with respect to laminoplasty techniques, there was a lower incidence of C-5 palsy in laminoplasty with concurrent foraminotomy compared with nonforaminotomy (low evidence).

CONCLUSIONS

The current review suggests that older patients are at a higher risk of perioperative complications. A longer operative duration and a 2-stage surgery both reflect increased case complexity and can indirectly predict perioperative complications.
Cranioplasty after decompressive craniectomy: is there a rationale for an initial artificial bone-substitute implant? A single-center experience after 631 procedures
Authors: Schwarz Falko , Dünisch Pedro , Walter Jan , Sakr Yasser , Kalff Rolf , Ewald Christian
Published: September 2015

OBJECT

The complication rate for cranioplasty after decompressive craniectomy is higher than that after other neurosurgical procedures; aseptic bone resorption is the major long-term problem. Patients frequently need additional operations to remove necrotic bone and replace it with an artificial bone substitute. Initial implantation of a bone substitute may be an option for selected patients who are at risk for bone resorption, but this cohort has not yet been clearly defined. The authors’ goals were to identify risk factors for aseptic bone flap necrosis and define which patients may benefit more from an initial bone-substitute implant than from autograft after craniectomy.

METHODS

The authors retrospectively analyzed 631 cranioplasty procedures (503 with autograft, 128 with bone substitute) by using a stepwise multivariable logistic regression model and discrimination analysis.

RESULTS

There was a significantly higher risk for reoperation after placement of autograft than after placement of bone substitute; aseptic bone necrosis (n = 108) was the major problem (OR 2.48 [95% CI1.11–5.51]). Fragmentation of the flap into 2 or more fragments, younger age (OR 0.97 [95% CI 0.95–0.98]; p < 0.001), and shunt-dependent hydrocephalus (OR 1.73 [95% CI1.02–2.92]; p = 0.04) were independent risk factors for bone necrosis. According to discrimination analysis, patients younger than 30 years old and older patients with a fragmented flap had the highest risk of developing bone necrosis.

CONCLUSIONS

Development of bone flap necrosis is the main concern in long-term follow-up after cranioplasty with autograft. Patients younger than 30 years old and older patients with a fragmented flap may be candidates for an initial artificial bone substitute rather than autograft.
Effectiveness of preoperative autologous blood donation for protection against allogeneic blood exposure in adult spinal deformity surgeries: a propensity-matched cohort analysis
Authors: Kelly Michael P. , Zebala Lukas P. , Kim Han Jo , Sciubba Daniel M. , Smith Justin S. , Shaffrey Christopher I. , Bess Shay , Klineberg Eric , Mundis Gregory , Burton Douglas , Hart Robert , Soroceanu Alex , Schwab Frank , Lafage Virginie , _ _
Published: September 2015

OBJECT

The goal of this study was to examine the effectiveness of preoperative autologous blood donation (PABD) in adult spinal deformity (ASD) surgery.

METHODS

Patients undergoing single-stay ASD reconstructions were identified in a multicenter database. Patients were divided into groups according to PABD (either PABD or NoPABD). Propensity weighting was used to create matched cohorts of PABD and NoPABD patients. Allogeneic (ALLO) exposure, autologous (AUTO) wastage (unused AUTO), and complication rates were compared between groups.

RESULTS

Four hundred twenty-eight patients were identified as meeting eligibility criteria. Sixty patients were treated with PABD, of whom 50 were matched to 50 patients who were not treated with PABD (NoPABD). Nearly one-third of patients in the PABD group (18/60, 30%) did not receive any autologous transfusion and donated blood was wasted. In 6 of these cases (6/60, 10%), patients received ALLO blood transfusions without AUTO. In 9 cases (9/60, 15%), patients received ALLO and AUTO blood transfusions. Overall rates of transfusion of any type were similar between groups (PABD 70% [42/60], NoPABD 75% [275/368], p = 0.438). Major and minor in-hospital complications were similar between groups (Major PABD 10% [6/60], NoPABD 12% [43/368], p = 0.537; Minor PABD 30% [18/60], NoPABD 24% [87/368], p = 0.499). When controlling for potential confounders, PABD patients were more likely to receive some transfusion (OR 15.1, 95% CI 2.1-106.7). No relationship between PABD and ALLO blood exposure was observed, however, refuting the concept that PABD is protective against ALLO blood exposure. In the matched cohorts, PABD patients were more likely to sustain a major perioperative cardiac complication (PABD 8/50 [16%], NoPABD 1/50 [2%], p = 0.046). No differences in rates of infection or wound-healing complications were observed between cohorts.

CONCLUSIONS

Preoperative autologous blood donation was associated with a higher probability of perioperative transfusions of any type in patients with ASD. No protective effect of PABD against ALLO blood exposure was observed, and no risk of perioperative infectious complications was observed in patients exposed to ALLO blood only. The benefit of PABD in patients with ASD remains undefined.
Endoscopic corpus callosotomy and hemispherotomy
Authors: Sood Sandeep , Marupudi Neena I. , Asano Eishi , Haridas Abilash , Ham Steven D.
Published: September 2015

OBJECT

Corpus callosotomy and hemispherotomy are conventionally performed via a large craniotomy with the aid of a microscope for children with intractable epilepsy. Primary technical considerations include completeness of disconnection and blood loss. The authors describe an endoscopic technique performed through a microcraniotomy for these procedures.

METHODS

Four patients with drop attacks and 2 with intractable seizures related to a neonatal stroke underwent endoscopic complete corpus callosotomy and hemispherotomy, respectively. The surgeries were performed through a 2- to 3-cm precoronal microcraniotomy. Interhemispheric dissection to the corpus callosum was done using the standard technique. Subsequently, the bimanual technique with a suction device mounted on an endoscope was used to perform a complete corpus callosotomy, including interforniceal and anterior commissure disconnection. In patients who had hemispherotomy, the fornix was resected posteriorly and lateral disconnection was done by unroofing the temporal horn. Anteriorly, endoscopic corticectomy was done along the ipsilateral anterior cerebral artery to reach the bifurcation of the internal carotid artery to complete the anterior disconnection. Postoperative MRI and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) of the brain were performed to confirm complete disconnection.

RESULTS

The procedure was accomplished successfully in all patients, with excellent visualization secured. None of the patients required a blood transfusion. Postoperative MRI and DTI confirmed completeness of the disconnection. Patients who underwent corpus callosotomy had complete resolution of drop attacks at a mean follow-up of 6 months, and patients who underwent hemispherotomy became seizure free.

CONCLUSIONS

Endoscopic corpus callosotomy and hemispherotomy are surgically feasible procedures associated with minimal blood loss, minimal risk, and excellent visualization.
Multivariate parameter optimization for computational snow avalanche simulation
Authors: Fischer Jan-Thomas , Kofler Andreas , Fellin Wolfgang , Granig Matthias , Kleemayr Karl
Published: September 2015

Snow avalanche simulation software is a commonly used tool for hazard estimation and mitigation planning. In this study a depth-averaged flow model, combining a simple entrainment and friction relation, is implemented in the software SamosAT. Computational results strongly depend on the simulation input, in particular on the employed model parameters. A long-standing problem is to quantify the influence of these parameters on the simulation results. We present a new multivariate optimization approach for avalanche simulation in three-dimensional terrain. The method takes into account the entire physically relevant range of the two friction parameters (Coulomb friction, turbulent drag) and one entrainment parameter. These three flow model parameters are scrutinized with respect to six optimization variables (runout, matched and exceeded affected area, maximum velocity, average deposition depth and mass growth). The approach is applied to a documented extreme avalanche event, recorded in St Anton, Austria. The final results provide adjusted parameter distributions optimizing the simulation–observation correspondence. At the same time, the degree of parameter–variable correspondence is determined. We show that the specification of optimal values for certain model parameters is near-impossible, if corresponding optimization variables are neglected or unavailable.
CounterTexting One Another: Conceptual Poetics, Flarf, and Derridean Countersignature
Authors: Milesi Laurent
Published: September 2015

Using the precedent of Charles Bernstein's spoof on Charles Olson's ‘Projective Verse’ poetics manifesto as part of a long contextual introduction on issues of literary filiation, influence, and intertextuality, this essay analyses the recent exchanges between conceptualist poetry (Vanessa Place, Kenneth Goldsmith's ‘uncreative writing’) and ‘flarf’ (Drew Gardner) in the light of Derrida's twin notions of signature and countersignature. In the process it ties together reading and writing(-as-rereading) in response and co-responsibility in order to theorise the critical notion of ‘countertextuality’ as a more contemporary inflection of the mechanics of literary interaction known as intertextuality, better suited to characterise the textual interaction between current poetic movements. The critical apparatus and developments in the footnotes are also conceived as a creative enactment of the countertext, whose final instance (the epilogue, or ‘Necrologue’) is a parodic rewriting performatively exposing the creative impasse and derivativeness of several recent textual productions mimicking Sol LeWitt's ‘Sentences on Conceptual Art’. As it moves towards its final critical part, the essay also puts forward, while enacting them, more general views about the relative sterility of some aspects of contemporary poetic debates while gesturing for a possible way out, via Felix Bernstein's ‘Notes on Post-conceptual Poetry’, in order to reclaim ‘the genuinely imaginary-affective-intellectual fabric and texture of the poetical’.
A Bayesian Decision-Theoretic Approach to Logically-Consistent Hypothesis Testing
Authors: Da Silva Gustavo , Esteves Luis , Fossaluza Victor , Izbicki Rafael , Wechsler Sergio
Published: September 2015

This work addresses an important issue regarding the performance of simultaneous test procedures: the construction of multiple tests that at the same time are optimal from a statistical perspective and that also yield logically-consistent results that are easy to communicate to practitioners of statistical methods. For instance, if hypothesis A implies hypothesis B, is it possible to create optimal testing procedures that reject A whenever they reject B? Unfortunately, several standard testing procedures fail in having such logical consistency. Although this has been deeply investigated under a frequentist perspective, the literature lacks analyses under a Bayesian paradigm. In this work, we contribute to the discussion by investigating three rational relationships under a Bayesian decision-theoretic standpoint: coherence, invertibility and union consonance. We characterize and illustrate through simple examples optimal Bayes tests that fulfill each of these requisites separately. We also explore how far one can go by putting these requirements together. We show that although fairly intuitive tests satisfy both coherence and invertibility, no Bayesian testing scheme meets the desiderata as a whole, strengthening the understanding that logical consistency cannot be combined with statistical optimality in general. Finally, we associate Bayesian hypothesis testing with Bayes point estimation procedures. We prove the performance of logically-consistent hypothesis testing by means of a Bayes point estimator to be optimal only under very restrictive conditions.
An Estimation of the Economic Impact of Surfing in the United Kingdom
Authors: Mills Bryan , Cummins Andy
Published: September 2015

The academic community's interest in surf tourism continues to grow with important contributions being made to our understanding of culture, economic behavior, and impact at specific sites. However, there was little understood about the impact surfers and surf tourism have on the overall
economy of the UK. Given the estimated 500,000 surfers in the UK in 2007 by the Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, and given unique access to a comprehensive database of UK surfers it has been possible to go some way toward correcting this data shortage. By analyzing 2,159
questionnaire responses, and after taking account of economic multipliers, a total contribution to the UK economy by domestic surfers of ?4.95 billion with an average direct spend of ?2,980 per year on surfing-related expenditure may be estimated making surfing an important contributor to
UK tourism and the UK economy.
Whale Watching in Norway Caught Between More Traditional Hunting Canons and the Lucrative Promise of Seismic Airguns
Authors: Bertella Giovanna , Vester Heike Iris
Published: September 2015

This research note concerns the role of whale-watching tourism providers in the debate over protection of the marine environment. The case reported is about northern Norwegian whale-watching organizations. Based on the analysis of local newspapers and on the direct experience of one
member of our research team, this research note concludes that the whale-watching companies, and more in general the wildlife tourism companies, engage only marginally in the debate. This can be explained referring to the companies' limited availability of resources and experience in the field,
and to the existence of different perspectives relative to the way humans can use and impact the marine environment and its inhabitants.
Recent Advances in Whale-Watching Research: 2013–2014
Authors: Scarpaci Carol , Parsons E. C. M.
Published: September 2015

Whale-watching research encompasses a wide variety of disciplines and fields of study, including monitoring the biological impacts of whale-watching activities on cetaceans and assessments of the effectiveness of whale-watching management and regulations, to the sociological and economic aspects of whale watching on communities hosting such activities. This article is the latest in a series of annual digests, which describes the variety and findings of whale-watching studies published between June 2013 and May 2014.
Engineering Pichia pastoris for improved NADH regeneration: A novel chassis strain for whole-cell catalysis
Authors: Geier Martina , Brandner Christoph , Strohmeier Gernot A , Hall Mélanie , Hartner Franz S , Glieder Anton
Published: September 2015

Many synthetically useful reactions are catalyzed by cofactor-dependent enzymes. As cofactors represent a major cost factor, methods for efficient cofactor regeneration are required especially for large-scale synthetic applications. In order to generate a novel and efficient host chassis for bioreductions, we engineered the methanol utilization pathway of Pichia pastoris for improved NADH regeneration. By deleting the genes coding for dihydroxyacetone synthase isoform 1 and 2 (DAS1 and DAS2), NADH regeneration via methanol oxidation (dissimilation) was increased significantly. The resulting Δdas1 Δdas2 strain performed better in butanediol dehydrogenase (BDH1) based whole-cell conversions. While the BDH1 catalyzed acetoin reduction stopped after 2 h reaching ~50% substrate conversion when performed in the wild type strain, full conversion after 6 h was obtained by employing the knock-out strain. These results suggest that the P. pastoris Δdas1 Δdas2 strain is capable of supplying the actual biocatalyst with the cofactor over a longer reaction period without the over-expression of an additional cofactor regeneration system. Thus, focusing the intrinsic carbon flux of this methylotrophic yeast on methanol oxidation to CO2 represents an efficient and easy-to-use strategy for NADH-dependent whole-cell conversions. At the same time methanol serves as co-solvent, inductor for catalyst and cofactor regeneration pathway expression and source of energy.