bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using stable isotope ratios to estimate atmospheric nitrogen fixed by cyanobacteria at the ecosystem scale
Authors: Woodland Ryan J. , Cook Perran L. M.
Published: September 2013

Diazotrophic cyanobacteria are capable of fixing atmospheric N2 to satisfy their physiological nitrogen requirements. This process can result in the transfer of substantial amounts of “new” diazotrophic nitrogen (ND) to aquatic ecosystems during blooms of these taxa. Using in situ measurements of plankton natural abundance stable isotope composition and a combination of underway and fixed site survey data, the total ND flux into the Gippsland Lakes estuary (Australia) was estimated during a summer bloom of the diazotrophic cyanobacterium Nodularia spumigena. Over the course of the bloom, ND increased in the upper water column of the estuary from 33% ± 17% (mean ± SD) to 73% ± 13% of the standing pool of total particulate N. A conservative estimate of total ND flux (146 Mg) equates to an estimated 177% of the summer total N load and 22% of the annual total N load to the estuary. Combining natural abundance stable isotope measurements with relatively simple fixed and underway survey designs can provide a cost‐effective approach for monitoring the ND flux into estuary or lacustrine environments. This approach relies on an isotopic differential between the diazotrophic and the non‐diazotrophic components of the plankton community; it may not be appropriate in ecosystems that experience low‐level blooms or blooms of intermittent N‐fixing cyanobacteria. Large‐scale blooms of diazotrophic cyanobacteria are considered uncommon in estuaries, yet it is clear that these blooms can represent major sources of new N to estuarine ecosystems when and where they occur.
Improving Access to Emergency Contraception Under the Scottish Sexual Health Strategy: Can Rates of Unintended Pregnancy be Reduced?
Authors: McGowan James G
Published: September 2013

Unintended pregnancy is a global sexual health problem. Outcomes of unintended pregnancy include unwanted childbirth and abortion, which may be associated with negative physical and psychosocial health implications for women. In Scotland, the Scottish Sexual Health Strategy has the stated goal of improving the sexual health of the people of Scotland. One aim of the Strategy is to reduce rates of unintended pregnancy and one policy designed to achieve this is ‘widening access to emergency contraception’. This paper examines the success of this policy with reference to the implicit link it makes between expanding access to emergency contraception and increasing its effective use, aiming thereby to reduce rates of unintended pregnancy. Since there is evidence that previous policies and strategies expanding access to emergency contraception have failed to reduce such rates, alternative approaches to achieve a reduction in unintended pregnancies are discussed.
Predictors of Cardiovascular Risk in Women
Authors: Sallam Tamer , Watson Karol E
Published: September 2013

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in women, contributing to one in three female deaths. Despite improvements in overall cardiovascular outcomes, substantial gender and ethnic disparities remain. In order to improve outcomes among women, we recommend the following: every woman should undergo risk stratification for short-term and lifetime cardiovascular risk given the substantial long-term risk of cardiovascular disease; modifiable cardiovascular risk factors in women should be modified to the greatest extent possible; and these factors include lipid abnormalities, hypertension, smoking, diabetes, obesity, physical inactivity and, possibly, inflammatory markers. The rate of decline in heart disease is slower for women than men, highlighting the need for gender-specific interventions to address the outcomes gap.
New Strategies for Human Papillomavirus-Based Cervical Screening
Authors: Lorincz Attila , Castanon Alejandra , Lim Anita Wey Wey , Sasieni Peter
Published: September 2013

Human papillomavirus testing has been shown to be far more sensitive and robust in detecting cervical intraepithelial neoplasia 2 and above (and cervical intraepithelial neoplasia 3 and above) for cervical screening than approaches based on either cytology or visual inspection; however, there are a number of issues that need to be overcome if it is to substantially reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with cervical cancer at the population level. The two main issues are coverage (increasing the number of women who participate in screening) and the management of women who test positive for high-risk human papillomavirus. This article will review the potential for vaginal self-collection to improve coverage and the options for triage of high-risk human papillomavirus-positive women in high-resource and low-resource settings.
Clinical Implications of the Women's Ischemia Syndrome Evaluation: Inter-Relationships Between Symptoms, Psychosocial Factors and Cardiovascular Outcomes
Authors: Handberg Eileen M , Eastwood Jo-Ann , Eteiba Wafia , Johnson B Delia , Krantz David S , Thompson Diane V , Vaccarino Viola , Bittner Vera , Sopko George , Pepine Carl J , Merz Noel Bairey , Rutledge Thomas R
Published: September 2013

Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death in the USA and is associated with several modifiable (hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol, tobacco use, physical inactivity, obesity and unhealthy diet) and nonmodifiable (age, gender and family history) risk factors. The role of psychosocial risk factors in the development of cardiovascular disease has a growing body of literature, and differences in men and women have been identified. The Women's Ischemia Syndrome Evaluation provides insight into psychosocial risk factors in a cohort of women presenting with chest pain who had a comprehensive battery of psychosocial assessments and long-term follow-up. This review focuses on symptom presentation for chest pain and its relationship to cardiovascular disease morbidity and mortality, quality of life, healthcare costs and psychosocial predictor variables, including anxiety, depression, hostility and social networks. In the Women's Ischemia Syndrome Evaluation, persistent chest pain was associated with an increased rate of adverse events and relatively high rates of depression and anxiety, with reduced functional capacity and impaired quality of life, over a median of 6 years of follow-up. More research is needed to better understand the relationships between symptoms and negative emotions and to determine whether psychological (pharmacologic and/or cognitive) interventions might impact both psychological and cardiovascular outcomes.
The Incidence and Risk of Inducing Hyperthyroidism Following Amiodarone Treatment
Authors: Cozlea D L , Farcas D M , Keresztesi A A , Silivastru I , Cozlea L , Carașca E
Published: September 2013

Introduction: Amiodarone, a frequently used antiarrhythmic drug in cardiology, is very efficient in the treatment of ventricular and supraventricular tachiarrithmyas. The iodine content of amiodarone is 39%. Its chemical structure is similar to tyrosine. It is estimated that 1-23% of patients treated with amiodarone can develop hyperthyroidism. The purpose of this study is to assess and monitor the incidence of hyperthyroidism induced by amiodarone in patients admitted for various types of cardiac dysrhythmias, considering that most of the patients included in the study came from an endemic goitre area.

Material and method: One-hundred patients chosen systematically (62 men, 38 women) from 560 patients treated with amiodarone in the January 1st, 2009 - December 31, 2009 period were assessed (clinically, laboratory findings and imaging studies); their mean age was 64 years (range 50-70 years). In order to identify and diagnose hyperthyroidism, a questionnaire (Newcastle index) was used, also urinary iodine dosage, hormonal dosages (T3, T4, TSH) and thyroid imaging (ultrasound, radioactive iodine uptake test) were used.

Results: The incidence of hyperthyroidism induced by amiodarone in this study was 8%. Hyperthyroidism was more frequent in women (6 women vs. 2 men).

Conclusions: Thyroid hormonal levels have to be determined and a clinical or thyroid ultrasound examination should be made prior to initiating a treatment with amiodarone. At the end of the study, 8 patients, most of them female, were diagnosed with hyperthyroidism.
The Therapeutic Management Of Retroperitoneal Injuries
Authors: Crăciun C , Azamfirei L , Coroș M F , Hintea A , Cozma D , Sorlea S , Dobre A
Published: September 2013

Background: In the retro peritoneum different organs of various origins (vascular, nervous, muscular, fascia, etc.) are located. These represent the source of different surgical conditions that cause, even today, serious problems of early diagnosis and treatment.

Material and method: We have conducted a retrospective study throughout a period of 8 years (2004-2011). We followed the incidence, the treatment and the evolution of several types of retroperitoneal lesions.

Results: In this period 79 cases of retroperitoneal conditions were encountered, representing 0.51% from the total of 15,284 patients admitted and treated within our clinic. The most common cases were those of tumour conditions and retroperitoneal primitive tumours (RPT). Many inflammatory conditions were also encountered. There were a few cases of retroperitoneal overflows or of parasitic diseases and we did not encounter cases of retroperitoneal fibrosis or malacoplaky.

Conclusions: In our study the majority of the retroperitoneal conditions were of tumour nature, especially malignant RPTs. Secondary retroperitoneal tumours (adenopathies, metastases, relapses) were less frequent. The excision of the retroperitoneal tumours is delicate, especially due to the vascular factor caused by anatomical conditions and their own vascularisation. On well-chosen cases we can use minimally invasive surgical techniques (laparoscope, punctures and eco-guided drainages), which enable a favorable post-operative evolution.
A Retrospective Longitudinal Study Regarding The Dental Anomalies Of Position With Eruptive Etiology
Authors: (Nagy-Bota) Muica Monica-Cristina , Păcurar Mariana , (Chibelean) Cireș-Marginean Manuela , Jurcă Anamaria , (Coșarcă) Lup Adina Simona , A Tudor
Published: September 2013

Objective: Given the high frequency of dental anomalies of position and the lack of preventive measures of surveillance and monitoring of the eruption of permanent teeth, the aim of this study is to evaluate the frequency of dental anomalies of position in children.

Material and methods: We conducted a retrospective longitudinal study in the 2006-2012 period. Data were collected from the medical records and orthopantomography x-rays of 408 patients (230 female and 178 male) who presented to the Pedodontics-Orthodontics Clinic in Tîrgu Mureș. After applying the exclusion criteria, 77 patients remained in the study.

Results: From the 77 patients, 57 had dental inclusions, 15 presented ectopic teeth, dental rotations have been observed in 2 patients, and midline diastema in 5 patients. Regarding sex distribution, there was a higher frequency of dental inclusions in women (39) than men (38). The frequency of dental inclusions, regarding dental groups, in a descending order was: maxillary canine, mandibular second premolar, mandibular canine, maxillary second premolar, mandibular first premolar, maxillary first premolar, maxillary lateral incisor, maxillary central incisor and maxillary and mandibular first molars. The frequency of dental inclusions in the dental support area had the highest rate in the 12-14 years age group.

Conclusions: From all the studied dental anomalies, dental inclusions presented the highest frequency. Regarding the dental support area, most cases of dental inclusion were observed in the 12-14 years age group.
Tattoo-Associated Skin Reactions — Clinical Cases
Authors: Fekete GyL , Fekete Júlia Edit
Published: September 2013

Tatooing has been practiced for thousands of years. It has become a common practice for people of Western countries in the last 10-20 years, where approximately 3-5% of the population has at least one tattoo. Various pigmented substances introduced into the skin may cause the occurrence of adverse irritative, immunological, infectious or other reactions of the skin. We present three clinical cases with adverse reactions after tattooing.
Communicating Hope In The Real World
Authors: Atkins Andy
Published: September 2013

This paper outlines a methodology for campaigning on environmental issues at a time when hope is in short supply. Brief consideration is given to the real world context. Current environmental concerns are set within the present economic downturn. Our science is generally much better, and many more players are interested in the environment. There has been a media revolution in the last 10 years, and there are now many more ways of communicating information. The equation ‘Proposal + People + Opportunity = Change’ is explored. The principles elucidated are applied to a case study of ‘The Bee Cause’, a Friends of the Earth campaign. The implications for Christian leaders are then investigated
SAFCEI (Southern African Faith Communities’ Environment Institute)
Authors: Davies Bishop Geoff
Published: September 2013

The Southern African Faith Communities’ Environment Institute (SAFCEI) grew out of a life-long conviction that the Christian church had failed in its responsibility to care for God’s world. Surely we who worship the God who ‘in the beginning created’ all that exists, should take a lead in its care?
The Rise In Popularity Of The Lithuanian Political Party Drasos Kelias
Authors: Mažylis Liudas , Unikaitė-Jakuntavičienė Ingrida , Ivanovas Bernaras
Published: September 2013

This article examines the genesis of a new Lithuanian political unit, the Drasos kelias party, which was created in 2012 and successfully participated in the 2012 Lithuanian parliamentary elections, reconstructing it in three stages based on the analysis of news portals. Reconstruction of the first stage is based on the competing “conspiracy versions” (two different interpretations of the unsolved criminal story in the news media) in 2009- 2010. Two archetypal characters (criminal and/or hero) were sought in the interpretation of the two aforementioned versions. Agenda setting and media framing theories were used as explanatory theories. The second stage (2011-2012) is reconstructed through further analysis of the news portals as well as through the analysis of some additional research from the interviews and focus group discussions. This data allowed us to retrace the logic of collective thinking. This logic of collective thinking contributed to the formation of a continuous “single issue” protest community which was united by the slogan “do not hand the child to a paedophilia clan”. This group of people constantly hindered the governmental institutions from the implementation of the court decision to hand the child to her mother, and over a long period of time its protest arguments expanded from “not handing the child to her mother” to protests against the entire Lithuanian legal system. Further, the third stage associated with formal institutionalization of political party and its rising of popularity among the voters in the 2012 Lithuanian parliamentary elections is analyzed. The analysis stresses the importance of social and personal networks for the regional dispersion of party election results.
The Use Of Alternative Measures In The Czech Republic
Authors: Ščerba Filip
Published: September 2013

This article deals with Czech legal regulation of alternative measures and their use in practice within the Czech criminal justice system. Attention is focused on procedural alternative measures, i.e. diversions in criminal proceedings, as well as on alternative punishments. The development of Czech criminal law has been strongly influenced by the conception of restorative justice, which was the base for the effort to spread the scope of alternative measures and to reduce the number of the imprisoned. But the introduction of new measures (diversions, community service, house arrest, etc.) was accompanied by some problems regarding their use in practice; some of them were connected with legal regulation, other ones were caused by incorrect use. The article identifies these problems (also through analysis of statistical data) and also describes solutions to the problems.
Efficience of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation in Emergency Medical Service and University Hospital
Authors: Kaleja Anita , Snucina Elina , Vanags Indulis
Published: September 2013

Introduction.Survival rate among patients with cardiac arrest remains unclear. Return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) is just the first step toward the goal of complete recovery from cardiac arrest. It depends on quality of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) during resuscitation and factors of postresuscitation care. Regular CPR analysis has not been carried out in Latvia.

Aim of the study was to evaluate survival rate among patients with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest and in-hospital cardiac arrest.

Materials and methods. The study was conducted in the State Emergency service of Latvia and Pauls Stradins Clinical University Hospital during 15 months in 2010/2011. There were 221 adult patients with in-hospital cardiac arrest and 162 adult patients with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest and performed CPR included in retrospective research. The information was analyzed by medical records. The obtained results were expressed in percents and compared, using the Pearson’s Chi-square (Pearson χ2) test.

Results. The short-term ROSC was achieved among patients with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) in 62 cases and among patients with in-hospital cardiac arrest (IHCA) in 186 cases. Survival to discharge was achieved in 20.3% among patients with OHCA and 15.8% among patients with IHCA. The most commonly used CPR algorithm was pulseless electrical activity/asystole (72 - 73%). Short-term ROSC was achieved most frequently by ventricular fibrillation/pulseless ventricular tachycardia (41.3-56%), but the largest number of unsuccessful CPR episodes was observed by pulseless electrical activity/ asystole.

Conclusion. Results of CPR were different among patients with OHCA and IHCA. ROSC is rhythm-specific outcome.
Application of Novel Methods for Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (Nsclc) Biomarker Discovery
Authors: Spaks Artjoms , Pirtnieks Ainis , Grusina-Ujumaza Jelena , Basko Jazeps , Krievins Dainis
Published: September 2013

Introduction. Research in NSCLC biomarker field and application of new methods is essential as it is promising strategy to reduce cancer mortality.

Aim of the study. The aim of the study was to develop new approach for lung cancer biomarker research and introduce novel method into surgical practice, verifying method’s safety and evaluate intraoperative and postoperative complications.

Materials and methods. 50 patients with early stage NSCLC undergoing lobectomy were randomized into two groups - experimental (n = 25) and control group (n = 25). In experimental group at the time of thoracotomy and resection of the lung, paired blood samples were obtained from the lobar pulmonary vein draining lung segment containing tumor and from the peripheral vein which represents the systemic circulation. Safety of the procedure and its influence on surgery was evaluated.

Results. New approach for lung cancer biomarker research was developed. Injuries of major anatomical structures as pulmonary blood vessels, bronchi, trachea and pericardium due to blood sample collection were not observed. There was no difference in hospital stay and chest tube drainage duration. There were no perioperative deaths in both groups. Morbidity rate in experimental group was similar to control group.

Conclusions. Application of new method for developing multimodal lung cancer model is safe and does not increase the risk of intraoperative and postoperative complications.
Chronic Total Coronary Artery Occlusion Recanalization with Percutaneous Coronary Intervention Using Anterograde and Retrograde Approach – Riga East Clinical University Hospital Experience
Authors: Kalnins Artis , Lukstins Guntis , Kurcalte Irena , Lejnieks Aivars
Published: September 2013

Introduction. Despite advantages in interventional cardiology during last decade, chronic total occlusions (CTO) still remains one of the biggest problem in percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI) (10,14). CTO prevalence is high, but only less than 10% of percutaneous revascularizations are CTO interventions (17). There are no prospective randomized trials, properly powered for hard clinical endpoints, comparing modern optimal medical therapy with contemporary state of the art CTO recanalization (6).

Aim of the study. The aim of our study was to compare CTO PCI procedural parameters and treatment results using anterograde and/or retrograde approach.

Materials and methods. The study included all patients undergoing PCI for CTO at single tertiary PCI center between January 2007 and December 2012. 5568 PCI procedures were done in this period in our institution. 486 (8,64%) of them were CTO PCI. Retrograde approach was used in 138 (28,7% of all CTO PCI) cases. Patients were grouped according PCI year performing, approach (anterograde or retrograde) and PCI results (successful or unsuccessful). Demographic and procedural data were collected at the time of intervention.

Results. A total of 405 patients undergoing CTO PCI were included. The median age was 64yrs(38-88) and 79,2% was male. Retrograde approach (RA) was used in 138(28,7%) cases. RA usage has increase from 15.9% in 2007 till 46,8% of cases in 2012(p=0,0000218). The overall patient and procedure success rates were 77,8% (315/90) and 69,9%(340/146) respectively. Overall success rate has increase from 61,4% in 2007 till 87,1% in 2012 (p<0,001). Overall survival was found better in patients group after successful procedure (Long-rank test p=0,019).

Conclusions. Retrograde approach usage significantly increase CTO PCI success rate, but doesn’t increase risk of complications. Long-term outcome and survival after CTO PCI is not depending on approach (anterograde or retrograde), but on procedural success.
Duplex Ultrasound Versus Computed Tomography for Follow Up of Complications after Evar with Nellix Endograft: First Clinical Experience
Authors: Ezite Natalija , Savlovskis Janis , Gedins Marcis , Kisis Kaspars , Dombure Polina , Krievins Dainis
Published: September 2013

Introduction.Contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) has become the ‘gold-standard’ imaging modality for surveillance following EVAR (2, 20). However repeated CT is related to increased cost, risk of contrast nephropathy and radiation exposure. Duplex ultrasound (DUS) is a less invasive but considered less accurate method than CT.

Aim of the study. The aim of this study was to determine the diagnostic accuracy of both imaging modalities for detection of complications in post-EVAR patients where the new generation sac-sealing endograft was used and to compare cost-effectiveness and sensitivity of both imaging modalities.

Methods. Analysis of 23 post-EVAR patients with implantation of new generation sac-sealing endograft device (Nellix®, Endologix, USA) was performed, making a comparison of CT and DUS. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography was taken as the ‘goldstandard’ investigation. DUS was compared to CT for analysis of sensitivity, post-imaging complications and cost-effectiveness. Statistical analysis of data was performed using v19.0 SPSS software (IBM).

Results. Analysis of CT and DUS studies compared in 23 patients. Both imaging modalities can detect AAA sac dimensions, endoleaks, and graft patency. The cost difference between two imaging techniques is substantial. Our results demonstrate that DUS surveillance during follow-up after EVAR where new generation sac-sealing endograft is used can accurately detect aneurysm size, endoleaks, graft deformations and stenotic or kinked graft limbs while lowering the overall costs of surveillance and eliminating CT related radiation and nephrotoxicity.

Conclusion. CT and DUS imaging can both detect AAA sac dimensions, endoleaks, and graft patency. The cost difference between the two imaging techniques is substantial. Our results demonstrate that in post-EVAR patients where new-generation sac-sealing endograft was deployed DUS surveillance performed by experienced radiologist can accurately detect aneurysm size, endoleaks, graft deformations and stenotic or kinked graft limbs while lowering the overall costs of surveillance and avoiding CT-related complications.
Conducted EMI of Switching Frequency Modulated Boost Converter
Authors: Stepins Deniss
Published: September 2013

In this paper conducted electromagnetic interference (EMI) of boost converter with switching frequency modulation (SFM) is theoretically analyzed in details. In the analysis line impedance stabilization network parameters, power inductor and input filtering capacitor parameters are taken into account. The analysis shows that the conducted EMI attenuation due to the use of SFM depends not only on modulation index as it is assumed in numerous research papers, but also on central switching frequency. Useful expressions to numerically calculate SFM boost converter conducted EMI spectrum and attenuation due to the use of triangular and sawtooth modulation waveforms are derived. Additionally experimental verification of the theoretical results is performed using a superheterodyne spectrum analyzer. Moreover a procedure for the choice of optimum SFM parameters (modulation waveform, frequency deviation and modulation frequency) to get maximum conducted EMI attenuation is proposed.
Land Tax in Local Government
Authors: Balážová Eva , Petrášová Viera
Published: September 2013

Currently the land tax causes difficulties to the managers of agricultural and forest land as it does not fulfill its historical function. Stagnant market for agricultural products together with damages caused by climate changes (floods or droughts) brings complications to the land managers by decreasing their profit. The research focuses on an analysis of land tax in Central Europe and its functioning as a municipal economic tool taking into account environmental protection and usage of nonrenewable resources. The article offers suggestions for municipalities with regard to changes in land taxation which are derived from their influence on agricultural and forest land usage.
Ecotoxicological characterisation of exhaust particulates from diesel-powered light-duty vehicles
Authors: Ács András , Ferincz Árpád , Kovács Anikó , Jancsek-Turóczi Beatrix , Gelencsér András , Kiss Gyula , Kováts Nora
Published: September 2013

Diesel exhaust is one of the major sources of fine and ultrafine particulate matter in urban air. Toxicity of diesel-powered engine emissions has been quite widely assessed, however, much less information is available on their ecotoxicity. In our study the kinetic version of the Vibrio fischeri bioluminescence inhibition bioassay, based on the ISO 21338:2010 standard, was used to characterise the ecotoxicity of diesel-powered cars. The method is sensitive enough to test the ecotoxic effect of the emission of individual vehicles. In general, significant positive correlation was found between ecotoxicity (expressed as Toxic Unit /TU/values) and total carbon (TC) as well as between TU and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) concentrations.
Needlestick Injuries among Nurses in a Tertiary Care Hospital: A Work Hazard or Lack of Awareness?
Authors: Angrup Archana , Kamlesh Thakur , Chand Jaryal Subhash , Anuradha Sood , Lata Chandel
Published: September 2013

Objectives: The present study addresses this important issue of NSI and aims at determining their occurrence among the nursing staff in Dr Rajendra Prasad Government Medical College (RPGMC) and hospital, Kangra at Tanda (H.P). Methods: A cross sectional study undertaken amongst the nursing staff of Dr RPGMC and hospital, Kangra at Tanda. Results: Out of the 164 respondents, 35(21.3%) reported to having one or more NSIs in their career and the maximum of these were amongst the nurses whose work experience was less than five years (13.4%). Conclusions: The results of this study confirm the importance of the need for an increased awareness of the risk of needlestick injury, the need to provide for the training and education of health-care workers DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ajms.v5i1.4971 Asian Journal of Medical Science Vol.5(1) 2014 pp.58-62
Application of Robotics Technology in Clinical Practice in India
Authors: Karandikar Pratibha M. , Tayade Motilal C.
Published: September 2013

Background: The field of mechanical engineering in association with electronics and computer science concerned with developing robotic devices that can move and react to sensory input. However the implementations and application of robotics in clinical practice was really a question? We planned to study the assessment of awareness, will and work level of medical robotics from medical professionals in clinical practice in India. Study Design: We used self prepared model questioner containing information related to applications, awareness, will etc. of medical professionals for application of medical robotics in clinical practice. The questioner was approved by IJBAMR Forum, Pune, India. The data was collected during June 2012 to January 2013. Such 220 questionnaires were filled and analyzed. Observations and Results: Only 1.36 % professionals observed with professional training. It was also observed that, only 54.54% professionals were known about current aspects about robotics application & knowledge regarding training centers. Conclusion: It is promising fact found in study that 88.63% professionals were very excited and willful for the application of robotics in their practice in future. From our study, it is concluded that there is noted a huge lake of awareness regarding application of medical robotics technology in Indian medical professionals. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/ajms.v5i1.7991   Asian Journal of Medical Science Vol.5(1) 2014 pp.29-33
Are There Realistic Possibilities for a Higher “Batting” Average? On Improving Residential Energy Efficiency in Canada
Authors: Ryan David L. , Jahangir Junaid Bin
Published: September 2013

The main use of energy in the residential sector in Canada is for space heating. Reductions in residential energy use, therefore, are likely to be achieved primarily through energy-saving retrofits, such as improved insulation. Reasons advanced to explain the foot-dragging of the residential sector in this regard are examined here, along with various policy options. Canadian survey data from 2003 are used to examine and compare the most energy-inefficient households who saw no need for retrofits with other households who provided a similar response, with a view to assessing whether there are factors that can be exploited to increase the uptake of such retrofits. The results suggest there is likely to be no quick fix. In the absence of large retrofit subsidies, with their accompanying free-rider problem, or a multi-pronged strategy that includes a whole array of policy instruments, including one that changes the relative importance of energy costs in household budgets, the outlook for sizeable improvements in residential energy efficiency in Canada via residential retrofits does not appear to be overly promising.
The Use of a Social Cost of Carbon in Canadian Cost-Benefit Analysis
Authors: Heyes Anthony , Morgan Dylan , Rivers Nicholas
Published: September 2013

The Social Cost of Carbon (SCC) is being adopted for systematic use in cost-benefit analysis (CBA) conducted by the Government of Canada. Although there are potential efficiency gains from its application, we argue that the SCC may be inappropriate for use in CBA for three reasons. First, as currently calculated, the SCC typically excludes the potential for catastrophes and certain types of climate damages, and assumes perfect substitutability between natural and human capital. For these reasons, it is likely to be biased downwards, and as such would provide misleading advice to policy-makers. Second, the SCC is a global measure of benefits, whereas standard practice in CBA is to include only domestic costs and benefits. Accounting for costs borne outside of Canada and along only one dimension (carbon damage) risks reducing economic efficiency and confusing the users of CBA studies. Third, SCC-based decision-making is unlikely to be consistent with Canadian commitments to international partners on emissions reductions; so its adoption risks institutionalizing non-delivery of those commitments.
Market-Based Policies for Green Motoring in Canada
Authors: Antweiler Werner , Gulati Sumeet
Published: September 2013

The most effective policy to address environmental externalities from vehicular fuel use is an appropriate fuel tax. Instead of raising fuel taxes, Canada’s provincial and federal governments prefer to subsidize the purchase of fuel-efficient vehicles and the accelerated retirement of old vehicles. Are these programs effective? Can they be improved? We argue that subsidies for hybrids and electric vehicles are not cost-effective and instead recommend building on Canada’s brief and modest experience with ”feebates.” While British Columbia’s pioneering accelerated vehicle retirement program is cost-effective, its success rests significantly on inducing participants to switch from personal vehicles to alternative transportation modes. Policy refinements will be needed to adapt the lessons learnt from this program to less favourable conditions elsewhere in Canada.
The End of the Beginning
Authors: Parry Ross
Published: September 2013

This article is an attempt to frame a way of seeing museums after the digital revolution. By introducing the concept of the ‘postdigital’, its aim is to evidence a tipping point in the adoption of new media in the museum—a moment where technology has become normative. The intention is not to suggest that digital media today is (or, indeed, should be) universally and equally adopted and assimilated by all museums, but rather to use the experience of several (national) museums to illustrate the normative presence digital media is having within some organizational strategies and structures. Having traced this perceived normativity of technology in these localized institutional settings, the article then attempts to reflect upon the consequences that the postdigital and the normative management of new media have for our approach to museological research.
National Museums, Globalization, and Postnationalism
Authors: Mason Rhiannon
Published: September 2013

In recent years it has been asked whether it is time to move ‘beyond the national museum’. This article takes issue with this assertion on the grounds that it misunderstands not only museums as cultural phenomenon but also the ways in which globalization, nationalism, and localism are always enmeshed and co-constitutive. The article begins by considering theories of globalization, postnationalism, and cosmopolitanism and their relevance for national museums in the European context. Specific theories of cosmopolitanism are subsequently further explored in relation to two museum examples drawn from the National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh and the Museum of European Cultures in Berlin. In different ways both examples demonstrate the potential for museums to engage visitors with ideas of cosmopolitanism, globalization, and postnationalism by revisiting, reframing, and reinterpreting existing national collections and displays. In the process the article makes the case for the merits of a nationally situated approach to cosmopolitanism in European museums. At the same time it acknowledges some of the potential limits to such endeavors. The article concludes by imagining what a ‘cosmopolitan museology’ would offer in terms of practice, politics, and ethics.
Heritage
Authors: Bouquet Mary
Published: September 2013

This article examines the changing relationship between museums and heritage using a number of Dutch cases. It argues that if heritage was once defined as being museological in character, this order of precedence is under revision as museums themselves are recursively transformed by heritage dynamics. Such dynamics include the display of renovation work-in-progress; the enhancement of historical collections by relocation to prominent new sites and buildings; the transformation of old industrial sites into new art and public spaces; and a mutual reinforcement between the urban landscape setting and the institutions that compose it by virtual means. Postcolonial heritage practices worldwide enfold museums in a further set of transformatory dynamics: these include claims on cultural property that was removed in colonial times, but also the strategic transformation of cultural property into heritage for didactic purposes. Museums are subject to the recursive dynamics of heritage, which are turning them inside out.
Exhibitions as Research
Authors: Herle Anita
Published: September 2013

Drawing on a recent exhibition, Assembling Bodies: Art, Science and Imagination, at the University of Cambridge Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology (MAA), this article argues that curatorial techniques, involving a sustained engagement with objects, can play a vital role in anthropological research. Processes involved in the creation and reception of the exhibition facilitated the investigation of how bodies are composed, known, and acted upon in different times, places, and disciplinary contexts. Assembling Bodies attempted to transcend the dualism of subject and object, people and things, by demonstrating how different technologies for making bodies visible bring new and oft en unexpected forms into focus. Processes of exploration and experimentation continued after the exhibition opened in the discussions and activities that the displays stimulated, and in the reflections and ideas that visitors took away.
"Ceremonies of Renewal"
Authors: Peers Laura
Published: September 2013

Access to heritage objects in museum collections can play an important role in healing from colonial trauma for indigenous groups by facilitating strengthened connections to heritage, to ancestors, to kin and community members in the present, and to identity. This article analyzes how touch and other forms of sensory engagement with five historic Blackfoot shirts enabled Blackfoot people to address historical traumas and to engage in ‘ceremonies of renewal’, in which knowledge, relationships, and identity are strengthened and made the basis of well-being in the present. The project, which was a museum loan and exhibition with handling sessions before the shirts were placed on displays, implies the obligation of museums to provide culturally relevant forms of access to heritage objects for indigenous communities.
Cultural Collisions in Socially Engaged Artistic Practice
Authors: Marstine Janet
Published: September 2013

In this article I explore how socially engaged artistic practice draws upon hybridity as a methodological approach advancing social justice. Through the case study of Theaster Gates’s To Speculate Darkly (2010), a project commissioned by the Chipstone Foundation of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and shown at the Milwaukee Art Museum, I consider how socially engaged practice mobilizes continually shifting notions of postcolonial hybridity to help museums make meaningful symbolic reparations toward equality and inclusivity. The research is based on interviews I conducted with Gates and with the director and the curator of the Chipstone Foundation. The article will demonstrate that, with hybridity, artists have the potential to subvert hegemonic power structures and to inspire reconciliations between museums and communities. While such reconciliations generally involve complex processes with no clear end point, the evolving concept of hybridity is an effective vehicle to foster pluralistic institutions, cultural organizations characterized by practices built upon shared authority, reciprocity, and mutual trust. Theaster Gates refers to the methodology of hybridity as ‘temple swapping’, an exchange of values between seemingly unlike groups, in his case the black church and the museum, to explore their interconnections and relational sensibilities. Temple swapping, I aim to show, is a valuable metaphor through which to examine socially engaged artistic practice and its implications for museum ethics.
Violent Asphyxial Death: A Study in Dinajpur Medical College, Dinajpur
Authors: Rahman Md. Mizanur , Haque Md. Rezaul , Bose Polash Kumar
Published: September 2013

Background: The word asphyxia is now commonly used to describe a range of conditions for which the lack of oxygen whether it is partial (hypoxia) or complete (anoxia) is considered to be the cause. The cardinal signs of asphyxia are cyanosis, congestion and petechial haemorrhage. Objective: To investigate the causes and manner of asphyxial death. Materials and Methods: It was a retrospective study conducted in the department of Forensic Medicine, Dinajpur Medical College, Dinajpur during July 2004 to June 2006. A total of 96 cases were examined and recorded. These cases were brought to the morgue of Dinajpur Medical College from 13 different police stations and 1 railway GRP station of Dinajpur district. The data were collected from the autopsy reports (preserved third copy) with permission of the concerned autopsy surgeons. Results: 88.55% of asphyxia deaths were due to hanging, 6.25% due to strangulation and 5.20% were due to suffocation. Conclusion: Most of the asphyxial deaths are due to hanging. Journal of Enam Medical College; Vol 3 No 2 July 2013; Page 91-93 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jemc.v3i2.16131
Exercise for the Management of Diabetes Mellitus: A Review of the Evidence
Authors: Khan Md. Shahjamal
Published: September 2013

Diabetes mellitus is a public health problem in both developed and developing countries and has increased alarmingly, giving the disease the dimension of an epidemic. The aetiology of diabetes is multifactorial involving genetic, environmental, and behavioural origins. Exercise is an important part for the management of diabetes mellitus. Regularly planned exercise reduces insulin resistance, improves glucose tolerance, improves lipid profile and increases cardiovascular and cardiopulmonary function. This article critically reviews the more relevant evidence on the interrelationships between exercise and diabetes mellitus. This study included bibliography research from both the review and the research literatures on exercise in diabetes mellitus. From this review it appears that the effects of aerobic exercise are well established, and interventions with more vigorous aerobic exercise programmes resulted in greater reductions in HbA1c, greater increase in oxygen consumption and greater increase in insulin sensitivity. Considering the available evidence, it appears that resistance training could be an effective intervention to help glycaemic control, especially considering that the effects of this form of intervention are comparable with what is reported with aerobic exercise. It is well established that physical activity produces general and specific health benefits for diabetic patients. The basic principles of an effective exercise programme are the intensity, duration and frequency of exercise in an appropriate environment. Usually, moderate-intensity and long-duration exercise programmes are considered most suitable for diabetic patients. As it is supported by published evidence, encouragement to adopt increased physical activity and reduction of sedentary behaviour is a successful public health approach for diabetes mellitus prevention and management. Journal of Enam Medical College; Vol 3 No 2 July 2013; Page 99-108 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jemc.v3i2.16133
ARF1 and SAR1 GTPases in Endomembrane Trafficking in Plants
Authors: Cevher-Keskin Birsen
Published: September 2013

Small GTPases largely control membrane traffic, which is essential for the survival of all eukaryotes. Among the small GTP-binding proteins, ARF1 (ADP-ribosylation factor 1) and SAR1 (Secretion-Associated RAS super family 1) are commonly conserved among all eukaryotes with respect to both their functional and sequential characteristics. The ARF1 and SAR1 GTP-binding proteins are involved in the formation and budding of vesicles throughout plant endomembrane systems. ARF1 has been shown to play a critical role in COPI (Coat Protein Complex I)-mediated retrograde trafficking in eukaryotic systems, whereas SAR1 GTPases are involved in intracellular COPII-mediated protein trafficking from the ER to the Golgi apparatus. This review offers a summary of vesicular trafficking with an emphasis on the ARF1 and SAR1 expression patterns at early growth stages and in the de-etiolation process.
Neuroprotective Effects of α-Tocotrienol on Kainic Acid-Induced Neurotoxicity in Organotypic Hippocampal Slice Cultures
Authors: Jung Na , Lee Kyung , Won Ran , Lee Bae
Published: September 2013

Vitamin E, such as alpha-tocopherol (ATPH) and alpha-tocotrienol (ATTN), is a chain-breaking antioxidant that prevents the chain propagation step during lipid peroxidation. In the present study, we investigated the effects of ATTN on KA-induced neuronal death using organotypic hippocampal slice culture (OHSC) and compared the neuroprotective effects of ATTN and ATPH. After 15 h KA (5 µM) treatment, delayed neuronal death was detected in the CA3 region and reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation and lipid peroxidation were also increased. Both co-treatment and post-treatment of ATPH (100 µM) or ATTN (100 µM) significantly increased the cell survival and reduced the number of TUNEL-positive cells in the CA3 region. Increased dichlorofluorescein (DCF) fluorescence and levels of thiobarbiturate reactive substances (TBARS) were decreased by ATPH and ATTN treatment. These data suggest that ATPH and ATTN treatment have protective effects on KA-induced cell death in OHSC. ATTN treatment tended to be more effective than ATPH treatment, even though there was no significant difference between ATPH and ATTN in co-treatment or post-treatment.
Monitoring the Cure State of Thermosetting Resins by Ultrasound
Authors: Lionetto Francesca , Maffezzoli Alfonso
Published: September 2013

The propagation of low intensity ultrasound in a curing resin, acting as a high frequency oscillatory excitation, has been recently proposed as an ultrasonic dynamic mechanical analysis (UDMA) for cure monitoring. The technique measures sound velocity and attenuation, which are very sensitive to changes in the viscoelastic characteristics of the curing resin, since the velocity is related to the resin storage modulus and density, while the attenuation is related to the energy dissipation and scattering in the curing resin. The paper reviews the results obtained by the authors’ research group in the last decade by means of in-house made ultrasonic set-ups for both contact and air-coupled ultrasonic experiments. The basics of the ultrasonic wave propagation in polymers and examples of measurements of the time-evolution of ultrasonic longitudinal modulus and chemical conversion of different thermosetting resins are presented. The effect of temperature on the cure kinetics, the comparison with rheological, low frequency dynamic mechanical and calorimetric results, and the correlation between ultrasonic modulus and crosslinking density will be also discussed. The paper highlights the reliability of ultrasonic wave propagation for monitoring the physical changes taking place during curing and the potential for online monitoring during polymer and polymer matrix composite processing.