bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of caffeic acid phenethyl ester and melatonin on distraction osteogenesis: an experimental study
Authors: Erdem Mehmet , Gulabi Deniz , Sen Cengiz , Sahin Seyit Ahmet , Bozdag Ergun
Published: January 2014

Aim

The aim of this experimental animal model study is to investigate the effects of caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) and melatonin on the maturation of newly-formed regenerated bone in distraction osteogenesis.

Methods

Unilateral femoral lengthening(extension) was applied to 39 adult male Wistar albino rats, which were randomly allocated to 3 groups of 13; control, melatonin and CAPE groups. Through a 7-day latent waiting period and 15 days of distraction, melatonin of 25 mg/kg and CAPE of 10 μmol/kg were administered to the respective groups. The animals were sacrificed on Day 82. Radiographic, histological and biomechanical evaluations were made and measurements were taken.

Results

At the end of 82 days, the distraction osteogenesis area was seen to be completely filled with new bone formation in all 3 groups both radiologically and histologically. Biomechanically, the maximum torsional fracture strength (Maximum Torque (N-m)) of the melatonin group was higher compared to that of the control group, although it was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). The maximum torsional momentum of the CAPE group was statistically significantly high (p < 0.05). The degree of rigidity (N-m/deg) of both the melatonin and CAPE groups was higher than that of the control group and the CAPE group was found to be statistically significantly higher than the melatonin group (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Melatonin and CAPE increase the maturation of new bone in distraction osteogenesis. These effects are probably due to the reducing effect on bone resorption by inhibiting NF-κB and free oxygen radicals.
Comparative evaluation of three interfaces for non-invasive ventilation: a randomized cross-over design physiologic study on healthy volunteers
Authors: Vaschetto Rosanna , De Jong Audrey , Conseil Matthieu , Galia Fabrice , Mahul Martin , Coisel Yannael , Prades Albert , Navalesi Paolo , Jaber Samir
Published: January 2014

Introduction

Interface choice is crucial for non-invasive ventilation (NIV) success. We compared a new interface, the helmet next (HN), with the facial mask (FM) and the standard helmet (HS) in twelve healthy volunteers.

Methods

In this study, five NIV trials were randomly applied, preceded and followed by a trial of unassisted spontaneous breathing (SB). Baseline settings, for example, 5 cmH2O of both inspiratory pressure support (PS) and positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP), were applied through FM, HS and HN, while increased settings (PS and PEEP of 8 cmH2O) were only applied through HS and HN. We measured flow, airway, esophageal and gastric pressures, and calculated inspiratory effort indexes and trigger delays. Comfort was assessed with a visual-analog-scale.

Results

We found that FM, HS and HN at baseline settings were not significantly different with respect to inspiratory effort indexes and comfort. Inspiratory trigger delay and time of synchrony (TI,synchrony) were significantly improved by FM compared to both helmets, whereas expiratory trigger delay was shorter with FM, as opposed to HS only. HN at increased settings performed better than FM in decreasing inspiratory effort measured by pressure-time product of transdiaphragmatic pressure (PTPdi)/breath (10.7 ± 9.9 versus 17.0 ± 11.0 cmH2O*s), and PTPdi/min (128 ± 96 versus 204 ± 81 cmH2O*s/min), and PTPdi/L (12.6 ± 9.9 versus 30.2 ± 16.8 cmH2O*s/L). TI, synchrony was inferior between HN and HS at increased settings and FM.

Conclusions

HN might hold some advantages with respect to interaction and synchrony between subject and ventilator, but studies on patients are needed to confirm these findings.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01610960
Within, Aside, and Too Much: On Parentheticality across Media
Authors: Scheible Jeff
Published: January 2014

In the context of the proliferation of textuality in the new media age, and the changing demands of adequately analyzing it, Scheible’s essay explores the possibilities of a reading strategy that asks how we might take parentheses as starting points for critical thinking, looking across three primary media sites: Jacques Derrida’s writing, criticism of the televisual laugh track, and Miranda July’s 2005 film Me and You and Everyone We Know. Proposing we consider not only parentheses as textual marks but also “parentheticality” as a relational structure, Scheible’s essay weaves in and out of disciplinary boundaries and questions about the legacies of critical theory, comedy, sound, sexuality, independent filmmaking, and new media aesthetics.
“Shameless”: Augustine, After Augustine, and Way After Augustine
Authors: Justice Steven
Published: January 2014

The pejorative “shameless,” applied liberally to religious and intellectual antagonists until quite recently, now has a distinct period feel, and has frequently and casually been taken to justify diagnosing those who use it as “anxious.” The essay shows that the accusation of shamelessness has a precise and fairly stable sense from antiquity through the Enlightenment; that this sense differs materially from what modern readers and scholars typically suppose it to be; that the accusation persists now, though under a different verbal formula; and that its persistence is unsurprising, because the possibility of making such an accusation is virtually a necessity of reasoned discourse.
Easy Attention: Ignatius of Loyola and Robert Boyle
Authors: Marno David
Published: January 2014

This essay traces shifts in meditative practice from Saint Ignatius of Loyola's Spiritual Exercises to the experimental philosopher Robert Boyle's Occasional Reflections, showing how Boyle's text participates in the evolution of the concept of “attention” as it changes from a spiritual ideal to a mental faculty. In the Spiritual Exercises, attention is an experience that is not independent of the spiritual ideal of attending to God but rather a sign and trace of the latter. Boyle sought to relax the strict regime of earlier meditations by offering a new recipe: his reformed program of “occasional meditation” entails surrendering to attention's “natural vagrancy” rather than resisting it. By allowing experiences that would have formerly counted as distractions to be acts of devotion, Boyle participated in the creation of a new psychological notion of attention.
Putting Faith to the Test: Anne de Gonzague and the Incombustible Relic
Authors: Hillman Jennifer
Published: January 2014

This article explores the cognitive struggle against “doubt” that impeded the conversion of the female aristocrat Anne de Gonzague, princesse Palatine, in seventeenth-century France. Anne's conversion came only after a life-long intellectual battle that climaxed when she held a fragment of the True Cross in the fire to test whether it could withstand the flames. The intellectual premise for her experiment with the holy relic can be found in her own écrit or conversion narrative. Analysis of this narrative demonstrates that Anne's application of philosophical skepticism and the Cartesian method—to which she was exposed in the Scientific Academy of her physician, Pierre Michon Bourdelot—to her own irreligion actually brought about her conversion to orthodoxy. Anne's “test” of faith therefore compels us to rethink the relationship between the New Philosophy and faith in the seventeenth century.
Preparation and properties of LGF/ER/TPU/PMMA composites
Authors: Guo Jianbing , Zhang Daohai , Shao Huiju , Zhang Kaizhou , Wu Bin
Published: January 2014

A series of long glass fiber (LGF)-reinforced epoxy resin (ER), thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) elastomers, and poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) composites were prepared by using self-designed impregnation device. Dynamic mechanical properties of the LGF/ER/TPU/PMMA composites have been investigated by using dynamic mechanical thermal analysis (DMA). The results indicated that the content of PMMA and TPU and scanning frequency had important influence on dynamic mechanical properties and glass transition of the LGF/ER/TPU/PMMA composites. In addition, the Arrhenius relationship has been used to calculate the activation energy of α-transition of the LGF/ER/TPU/PMMA composites. The thermal properties of the LGF/ER/TPU/PMMA composites were studied by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Morphology and mechanical properties of the composites are investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), a universal testing machine, and a ZBC-4 Impact Pendulum.
Multifunctional di-N-oxide surfactants in fabrication of lipid nanoparticles
Authors: Wiercigroch Katarzyna , Lewińska Agnieszka , Wilk Kazimiera A.
Published: January 2014

A homologous series of dicephalic surfactants, 1,1-bis{[3-(N,N-dimethylamino)ethyl]amido}alkane-di-N-oxides (CnMEDA), is reported, and their applicability for stabilization of the lipid nanoparticles (solid lipid nanoparticles (SLNs) or nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs)) is discussed and compared with that of their counterparts, single-head–single-tail 2-alkanoylamino)ethyldimethylamines (CnEDA). For the SLN formation, solid cetyl palmitate (Crodamol CP-PA-(SG) is applied as the solid lipid, and in the case of NLCs, cetyl palmitate and triglycerides of caprylic/capric are applied as the liquid lipid. Structural parameters of the resulting nanoparticles are characterized by dynamic light scattering, transmission electron microscopy and scanning electron microscopy and thermal behavior by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The studied nanoparticles stabilized with dicephalic CnMEDA had a mean diameter of about 145 nm, whereas the particle size of those stabilized with CnEDA is around 160 nm. Zeta potential measurements demonstrated a negative charge of all obtained SLNs and NLCs, and their values are between −7 and −20 mV. These characteristics remained unchanged for samples stabilized with CnMEDA for least 3 months, suggesting good stability. According to the DSC findings, the NLCs stabilized by the tested CnMEDA had lower values for phase transition temperature, melting enthalpy and the recrystallization index than those obtained for the SLNs. The obtained findings suggest that less ordered crystalline structure is conferred by the inclusion of the liquid lipid. Moreover, the SLNs and NLCs stabilized by dicephalic surfactants constitute more stable products than those stabilized by their linear counterparts.
Development and Evaluation of an Instrument to Measure Reasoning About Managing Asthma in Older School-Age Children and Adolescents
Authors: Kintner Eileen , Cook Gwendolyn , Hull Lakisha , Meeder Linda
Published: January 2014

Background and Purpose: This article describes development and evaluation of a 4-scenario instrument designed to measure reasoning abilities for managing asthma symptoms. Methods: Existing literature informed creation of a reasoning template and the reasoning scenarios. Think-aloud interviews appraised scenario functionality. Experts assessed content validity. Data from 2 groups of students with asthma aged 9–15 years (N = 132 and 307) were used to evaluate psychometric properties. Results: The scenarios were deemed functional, content was relevant, and readability was age/grade appropriate. Cronbach’s alpha was 0.79. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses indicated a single component solution and revealed a good fit. Concurrent validity was established using correlations with asthma knowledge. Conclusion: The instrument could be used to assess reasoning about symptom management and to evaluate educational interventions.
Locke-Wallace Short Marital-Adjustment Test: Psychometric Evaluation in Caregivers for Persons With Primary Malignant Brain Tumor
Authors: Jiang Yun , Terhorst Lauren , Donovan Heidi S. , Weimer Jason M. , Choi Chien-Wen J. , Schulz Richard , Given Barbara , Sherwood Paula R.
Published: January 2014

Background and Purpose: Caregivers’ well-being has been found to be associated with marital adjustment. This study’s purpose was to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Locke-Wallace Short Marital-Adjustment Test (LWSMAT) in a sample of caregivers of persons with primary malignant brain tumor (PMBT). Methods: Secondary analysis of data collected from 114 caregivers. The LWSMAT was tested for factor structure, internal consistency reliability, and construct validity. Results: 5 extracted factors explained 60.55% of the total variance. Four interpretable factors (Contentment & Communication, Leisure & Sociality, Intimacy, and Shared Philosophy) had Cronbach’s alpha between 0.63 and 0.74. Convergent validity (r= −.35 andr= −.43, respectively, bothp< .0001) and discriminant validity (r= .07,p= .49; andr= −.04,p= .67) were confirmed by comparing four factors with subdimensions of the Caregiver Reaction Assessment (CRA). Conclusion: The LWSMAT is a multidimensional, reliable, and valid measure of marital adjustment in caregivers of persons with a PMBT.
Comparison of Extreme Offshore Structural Response from Two Alterna-tive Stretching Techniques
Authors: Zaki N.I. Mohd , Husain M.K. Abu , Najafian G.
Published: January 2014

Linear random wave theory (LRWT) has successfully explained most properties of real sea waves with the ex-ception of some nonlinear effects for surface elevation and water particle kinematics. Due to its simplicity, it is frequently used to simulate water particle kinematics at different nodes of an offshore structure from a reference surface elevation record; however, predicted water particle kinematics from LRWT suffer from unrealistically large high-frequency compo-nents in the vicinity of mean water level (MWL). To overcome this deficiency, a common industry practice for evaluation of wave kinematics in the free surface zone consists of using linear random wave theory in conjunction with empirical techniques (such as Wheeler and vertical stretching methods) to provide a more realistic representation of near-surface wave kinematics. It is well known that the predicted kinematics from these methods are different; however, no systematic study has been conducted to investigate the effect of this on the magnitude of extreme responses of an offshore structure. In this paper, probability distributions of extreme responses of an offshore structure from Wheeler and vertical stretching methods are compared. It is shown that the difference is significant; consequently, further research is required to deter-mine which method is more reliable.
Acute Angioedema in a Patient on Long-term Angiotensin Converting Enzyme Inhibitor Following Oral Surgery: A Case Report
Authors: Awoniyi Caleb A. , Yannaras Steven , Bauerfeind Julia M.
Published: January 2014

A relatively common side effect of angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE-I), used for the treatment of high blood pressure, is angioedema. Whereas, angioedema due to ACE-I usually appear during the first few days or weeks of treatment, delayed onset, years after initiation of treatment is often unrecognized and can lead to life-threatening adverse events. We present a case report of rapidly progressive tongue swelling a few hours following oral surgery in a 62-year-old male who had been on ACE-I therapy for seven years. Prompt recognition and treatment prevented an impending respiratory compromise that could have been catastrophic.
Treating Arterial Stiffness in Metabolic Syndrome and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Katsiki Niki , Gkaliagkousi Eugenia , Karagiannis Asterios , Mikhailidis Dimitri P.
Published: January 2014

Arterial stiffening characterizes ageing and several diseases related to increased cardiovascular (CV) risk such
as the metabolic syndrome (MetS), type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), hypertension, obesity and smoking. Several studies
have shown that arterial stiffness is a strong, independent predictor of CV morbidity and mortality risk in such patient
populations. Lifestyle measures and drugs frequently prescribed in MetS and T2DM patients such as hypolipidaemic, antihypertensive,
hypoglycaemic and antiplatelet agents, may improve arterial stiffness, thus further reducing vascular risk.
The current review considers the effects of these drugs and lifestyle changes on arterial stiffness in MetS and T2DM patients.
The potential clinical implications of such effects on treatment decisions in clinical practice remain to be established.
Multifactorial interventions may be even more beneficial in terms of CV risk reduction and thus their impact on arterial
stiffness should also be evaluated.
Towards PLEs throughwidget spaces in Moodle
Authors: Bogdanov Evgeny , Ullrich Carsten , Isaksson Erik , Palmer Matthias , Gillet Denis
Published: January 2014

Bringing flexibility and extensibility into Learning Management Systems is
crucial because it gives teachers and students a free choice of technologies
and educational materials they want to use for their courses. This paper
presents a solution by enabling widgets (OpenSocial apps) within Moodle. Our
first Moodle plugin allows teachers to freely choose a set of tools they want
to use in their courses, although students cannot change widgets proposed by
teachers. Additionally, the plugin enables the flexible interaction
interfaces inside Moodle and improves the interoperability of Moodle with
other Web platforms. The environment was evaluated with students within
several courses. Even though the environment was perceived as useful by
students, they lacked their own personalization. The second Moodle plugin
described tackles this problem.
Critical review of research on the Lower Jurassic flora of Poland
Authors: Pacyna Grzegorz
Published: January 2014

The Lower Jurassic plant macrofossils of Poland are poorly known. Relatively rich sources of fossils are found in only a few outcrops in the Holy Cross Mountains. Other described plant remains come from drill cores taken from most areas of Poland, but as a rule these are single specimens. The only professional descriptions of Lower Jurassic macroflora are papers by Raciborski, Makarewiczówna, and a team of researchers consisting of Reymanówna, Barbacka, Ziaja, and Wcisło-Luraniec. Raciborski’s fossil collection is still available for research and revision. Such work is in progress. The collection described by Makarewiczówna contained many interesting specimens but unfortunately the majority of them are now missing. Stratigraphic research by geologists has provided some new specimens from drill cores and outcrops in the Holy Cross Mountains but these have not been subjected to detailed palaeobotanical analysis. The palynology of the Lower Jurassic was focused on biostratigraphy from the outset of that research. As an outcome it provided spore-pollen and megaspore zonations for Lower Jurassic strata in Poland. The Polish Lower Jurassic flora is comprised of ferns (very numerous), lycopsids, sphenopsids, cycadaleans, bennettitaleans, gnetaleans, ginkgoaleans, and conifers. This flora is taxonomically poorer than the equally old and geographically close floras of Denmark, Sweden, and Germany. Macrofloristic data have been used by geologists as an important source of information for assessing the age of Lower Jurassic formations, particularly in the Holy Cross Mountains. Hence the need for the old collections to be taxonomically revised and for new material from outcrops and drill cores to be examined and described.
Optimum Dataset Size and Search Space for Minimum Zone Roundness Evaluation by Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Meo A. , Profumo L. , Rossi A. , Lanzetta M.
Published: January 2014

Roundness is one of the most common features in machining. The minimum zone tolerance (MZT) approach provides the minimum roundness error, i.e. the minimum distance between the two concentric reference circles containing the acquired profile; more accurate form error estimation results in less false part rejections. MZT is still an open problem and is approached here by a Genetic Algorithm. Only few authors have addressed the definition of the search space center and size and its relationship with the dataset size, which greatly influence the inspection time for the profile measurement and the convergence speed of the roundness estimation algorithm for a given target accuracy. Experimental tests on certified roundness profiles, using the profile centroid as the search space center, have shown that the search space size is related to the number of dataset points and an optimum exists, which provides a computation time reduction up to an order of magnitude.
A Comparative Study of SIFT and its Variants
Authors: Wu Jian , Cui Zhiming , Sheng Victor S. , Zhao Pengpeng , Su Dongliang , Gong Shengrong
Published: January 2014

SIFT is an image local feature description algorithm based on scale-space. Due to its strong matching ability, SIFT has many applications in different fields, such as image retrieval, image stitching, and machine vision. After SIFT was proposed, researchers have never stopped tuning it. The improved algorithms that have drawn a lot of attention are PCA-SIFT, GSIFT, CSIFT, SURF and ASIFT. In this paper, we first systematically analyze SIFT and its variants. Then, we evaluate their performance in different situations: scale change, rotation change, blur change, illumination change, and affine change. The experimental results show that each has its own advantages. SIFT and CSIFT perform the best under scale and rotation change. CSIFT improves SIFT under blur change and affine change, but not illumination change. GSIFT performs the best under blur change and illumination change. ASIFT performs the best under affine change. PCA-SIFT is always the second in different situations. SURF performs the worst in different situations, but runs the fastest.
Finite Element Method Analysis of Microfluidic Channel with Integrated Dielectrophoresis Electrodes for Biological Cell Permeabilization and Manipulation
Authors: Novickij V. , Grainys A. , Novickij J.
Published: January 2014

The microfluidic channel with a planar inductive microcoil for the cell membrane permeabilization and the integrated planar electrodes for cell dielectrophoretic manipulation is proposed and analyzed in the study. The analyzed setup is based on the dielectrophoretic entrapment of the biological cell followed by membrane permeabilization using high pulsed magnetic field. The finite element method analysis of the DEP force and the generated pulsed magnetic field is performed. Based on finite element method analysis the potential applications of the setup in the fields of drug delivery, biomedicine and biotechnology are discussed.
Tetraplodon angustatus (Bryopsida, Splachnaceae) in the Polish Tatra Mts
Authors: Cykowska-Marzencka Beata
Published: January 2014

The paper gives six new records of the rare coprophilous altimontane moss species Tetraplodon angustatus (Hedw.) Bruch & Schimp. from the Polish Tatra Mts in the Western Carpathians. The ecology and current distribution of the species in the Tatras are described.
Two new species of Epistephium (Orchidaceae, Vanilloideae) from Colombia
Authors: Szlachetko Dariusz L. , Kolanowska Marta
Published: January 2014

Two new species of Neotropical Orchidaceae, Epistephium epiphyticum Szlach. & Kolan. and E. cardonae Szlach. & Kolan., are described and illustrated based on Colombian material. So far the new entities are known exclusively from the type locations. Both species are placed within a key to Colombian Epistephium Kunth.
Morphological differentiation of Polygonum viviparum (Polygonaceae) in European populations
Authors: Marcysiak Katarzyna
Published: January 2014

The variation of Polygonum viviparum L. in Europe was studied in 584 plants sampled from 14 populations at different altitudes and from different substrates in the Carpathians, Alps, Dinaric Alps, Pyrenees and Scandinavian Mts. The samples were analyzed biometrically, using 12 measured stem and inflorescence characters and 10 characters calculated from those 12. The obtained ranges of values were only slightly wider than those given in the literature. All characters significantly differed between populations and six characters were statistically significant in identifying differences between regions. Altitude, substrate and the interactions between them significantly affected the differences in characters between samples. The values of most of the measured characters were lower in samples from higher locations and on poor substrate than in those from lower localities and on rich substrate. Substrate type affected the calculated characters less but it influenced the shift between vegetative and generative reproduction. Multidimensional analyses confirmed the proximity of samples from regions either geographically close or linked via routes of postglacial migrations, despite altitude and substrate differences between them.
Pigmented euglenophytes of the genera Euglena, Euglenaria, Lepocinclis, Phacus and Monomorphina from the southeastern United States
Authors: Wołowski Konrad , Poniewozik Małgorzata , Walne Patricia L.
Published: January 2014

The biogeography and taxonomy of euglenophytes from the southeastern United States were studied in material from lakes, ponds and rivers of Alabama, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina and Tennessee. The 68 taxa found, 26 of which are new for this region, belong to the genera Euglena (26 taxa), Euglenaria (2), Lepocinclis (13), Phacus (25) and Monomorphina (2). The taxa occurred at low density, sometimes as a single specimen. Euglenophyte diversity was highest in ponds; rivers had the fewest taxa. Euglenophytes were present in most plankton samples.
Oligonema flavidum (Myxomycetes): a species new to Poland
Authors: Salamaga Agnieszka
Published: January 2014

This study presents the first collection of Oligonema flavidum (Peck) Peck in Poland. Its description, illustrations, substrate and habitat types are provided.
On unitary Cauchy filters on topological monoids
Authors: Averbukh Boris G.
Published: January 2014

For Hausdorff topological monoids, the concept of a unitary
Cauchy net is a generalization of the concept of a fundamental
sequence of reals. We consider properties and applications
of such nets and of corresponding filters and prove, in
particular, that the underlying set of a given monoid, endowed
with the family of such filters, forms a Cauchy space whose
convergence structure defines a uniform topology. A commutative
monoid endowed with the corresponding uniformity is
uniform. A distant purpose of the paper is to transfer the classical
concepts of a completeness and of a completion into the
theory of topological monoids.
A Journey through Time and Place in Debajehmujig’s The Global Savages: A Slideshow
Authors: Freeman Barry , Berti Ron
Published: January 2014

This slideshow features images from Debahjehmujig – Storytellers’ (Debaj) ongoing performance project The Global Savages, which comprises storytelling, intercultural exchange and community dialogue. Commentary on the photos by Barry Freeman and Debaj’s Artistic Producer and photographer Ron Berti.
State of Denial: Cultural Diversity as a Resource for Alternative Globalization
Authors: Varma Rahul
Published: January 2014

Rahul Varma discusses his choice to write a fictional script, State of Denial, rather than create a verbatim performance, as part of his work on the Oral History and Performance Working Group of the Montreal Life Stories Oral History Project. He underlines the importance of recognizing Canada’s cultural diversity as a resource for developing alternative approaches to globalization. Varma’s play, State of Denial, tells the story of Odette, a Rwandan-born Canadian filmmaker, who goes to Turkey to investigate stories of genocide. She meets Sahana, an old Turkish woman, who has devoted her life to helping Armenian survivors of genocide. On her deathbed, Sahana reveals a long-kept secret to Odette, asking her to make it public; Odette promises to do so. On a mission to make Sahana’s secret public, Odette ends up revealing her own. A state of denial ends and a new life begins.
Reconsidering Wealth: From a Treatise on Political Economy to a Transnational Artistic Project
Authors: Bédard Réjean , Graham Catherine
Published: January 2014

Réjean Bédard describes the working relationship between Québec’s Théatre Parminou and French theatre company La Tribouille that led to the creation of the Théâtre Parminou’s Trilogie de la Richesse. Working from a report on new measures of wealth prepared for the government of France by Patrick Viveret, each of the companies created their own set of three plays questioning how we measure wealth, how speculation has affected currencies, and how society might look different if we valued relationships more than material goods. The article also discusses the application of open-source or creative commons principles to theatrical creation, underlining the importance of making the intellectual property developed through the creative process freely available to other groups working on issues of alter-globalization.
Identifying Balance and Fall Risk in Community-Dwelling Older Women: The Effect of Executive Function on Postural Control
Authors: Muir-Hunter Susan W. , Clark Jennifer , McLean Stephanie , Pedlow Sam , Van Hemmen Alysia , Montero Odasso Manuel , Overend Tom
Published: January 2014

Purpose: The mechanisms linking cognition, balance function, and fall risk among older adults are not fully understood. An evaluation of the effect of cognition on balance tests commonly used in clinical practice to assess community-dwelling older adults could enhance the identification of at-risk individuals. The study aimed to determine (1) the association between cognition and clinical tests of balance and (2) the relationship between executive function (EF) and balance under single- and dual-task testing. Methods: Participants (24 women, mean age of 76.18 [SD 16.45] years) completed six clinical balance tests, four cognitive tests, and two measures of physical function. Results: Poor balance function was associated with poor performance on cognitive testing of EF. In addition, the association with EF was strongest under the dual-task timed up-and-go (TUG) test and the Fullerton Advanced Balance Scale. Measures of global cognition were associated only with the dual-task performance of the TUG. Postural sway measured with the Standing Balance Test, under single- or dual-task test conditions, was not associated with cognition. Conclusions: Decreased EF was associated with worse performance on functional measures of balance. The relationship between EF and balance was more pronounced with dual-task testing using a complex cognitive task combined with the TUG.
Clinical significance of imaging and histological characteristics of filum terminale in tethered cord syndrome
Authors: Thompson Eric M. , Strong Michael J. , Warren Garth , Woltjer Randy L. , Selden Nathan R.
Published: January 2014

Object

The pathophysiology of tethered cord syndrome (TCS) is uncertain; however, it has been suggested that fibrous and fatty elements within the filum terminale (FT) play a role. The objective of this study was to describe the radiological and histological features of the FT in TCS and determine if there are associations between those features and clinical outcomes, complications, and urodynamics.

Methods

In this retrospective study, histological, MRI, and clinical data obtained in 293 patients with TCS who underwent FT transection were reviewed and analyzed in a multivariate analysis.

Results

The median patient age was 4.9 years (range 0.3–64.3 years). On MRI, a fatty filum was present in 65% of patients and a thickened filum (> 2 mm) was seen in 45%. Histologically, the FT contained prominent fibrous tissue in 95%, nerve twigs in 79%, adipose tissue in 59%, and vascular tissue in 36%. Histological features associated with a thickened filum on MR images were adipose tissue (OR 3.5, p < 0.001), nerve twigs (OR 2.2, p = 0.028), and vascular tissue (OR 0.5, p = 0.025). Adipose tissue was associated with a conus level below the L2–3 disc space (OR 2.3, p = 0.031) and with a fatty filum on imaging (OR 9.8, p < 0.001). Nerve twigs were associated with abnormal urodynamics (OR 10.9, p = 0.049). The only variable predictive of clinical improvement was conus level; patients with conus levels caudal to L-2 were less likely to improve postoperatively (OR 0.3, p = 0.042).

Conclusions

Fibrous tissue was ubiquitous and may be important in the pathophysiology of TCS. Nerve twigs and adipose tissue were associated with abnormal urodynamics and low-lying coni, respectively. Although the majority of patients clinically improved, patients with normal conus levels had significantly better outcomes.
Carbon Nanotube- and Carbon Fiber-Reinforcement of Ethylene-Octene Copolymer Membranes for Gas and Vapor Separation
Authors: Sedláková Zuzana , Clarizia Gabriele , Bernardo Paola , Jansen Johannes , Slobodian Petr , Svoboda Petr , Kárászová Magda , Friess Karel , Izak Pavel
Published: January 2014

Gas and vapor transport properties were studied in mixed matrix membranes containing elastomeric ethylene-octene copolymer (EOC or poly(ethylene-co-octene)) with three types of carbon fillers: virgin or oxidized multi-walled carbon nanotubes (CNTs) and carbon fibers (CFs). Helium, hydrogen, nitrogen, oxygen, methane, and carbon dioxide were used for gas permeation rate measurements. Vapor transport properties were studied for the aliphatic hydrocarbon (hexane), aromatic compound (toluene), alcohol (ethanol), as well as water for the representative samples. The mechanical properties and homogeneity of samples was checked by stress-strain tests. The addition of virgin CNTs and CFs improve mechanical properties. Gas permeability of EOC lies between that of the more permeable PDMS and the less permeable semi-crystalline polyethylene and polypropylene. Organic vapors are more permeable than permanent gases in the composite membranes, with toluene and hexane permeabilities being about two orders of magnitude higher than permanent gas permeability. The results of the carbon-filled membranes offer perspectives for application in gas/vapor separation with improved mechanical resistance.
Towards an Ecological Understanding of Dinoflagellate Cyst Functions
Authors: Bravo Isabel , Figueroa Rosa
Published: January 2014

The life cycle of many dinoflagellates includes at least one nonflagellated benthic stage (cyst). In the literature, the different types of dinoflagellate cysts are mainly defined based on morphological (number and type of layers in the cell wall) and functional (long- or short-term endurance) differences. These characteristics were initially thought to clearly distinguish pellicle (thin-walled) cysts from resting (double-walled) dinoflagellate cysts. The former were considered short-term (temporal) and the latter long-term (resting) cysts. However, during the last two decades further knowledge has highlighted the great intricacy of dinoflagellate life histories, the ecological significance of cyst stages, and the need to clarify the functional and morphological complexities of the different cyst types. Here we review and, when necessary, redefine the concepts of resting and pellicle cysts, examining both their structural and their functional characteristics in the context of the life cycle strategies of several dinoflagellate species.
[15]aneN4S: Synthesis, Thermodynamic Studies and Potential Applications in Chelation Therapy
Authors: Torres Nuno , Gonçalves Sandrina , Fernandes Ana , Machado J. , De Brito Maria , Oliveira Nuno , Castro Matilde , Costa Judite , Cabral Maria
Published: January 2014

The purpose of this work was to synthesize and characterize the thiatetraaza macrocycle 1-thia-4,7,10,13-tetraazacyclopentadecane ([15]aneN4S). Its acid-base behaviour was studied by potentiometry at 25 °C and ionic strength 0.10 M in KNO3. The protonation sequence of this ligand was investigated by 1H-NMR titration that also allowed the determination of protonation constants in D2O. Binding studies of [15]aneN4S with Mn2+, Fe2+, Co2+, Ni2+, Cu2+, Zn2+, Cd2+, Hg2+ and Pb2+ metal ions were further performed under the same experimental conditions. The results demonstrated that this compound has a higher selectivity and thermodynamic stability for Hg2+ and Cu2+, followed by Ni2+. The UV-visible-near IR spectroscopies and magnetic moment data for the Co(II) and Ni(II) complexes indicated a tetragonal distorted coordination geometry for both metal centres. The value of magnetic moment and the X-band EPR spectra of the Cu(II) complex are consistent with a distorted square pyramidal geometry.
Comparison of the Effect of Two Human Milk Fortifiers on Clinical Outcomes in Premature Infants
Authors: Thoene Melissa , Hanson Corrine , Lyden Elizabeth , Dugick Laura , Ruybal Leslie , Anderson-Berry Ann
Published: January 2014

The use of human milk fortifiers (HMF) helps to meet the high nutritional requirements of the human milk-fed premature infant. Previously available powdered products have not met the protein requirements of the preterm infant population and many neonatologists add powder protein modulars to help meet protein needs. The use of powdered products is discouraged in neonatal intensive care units (NICU) due to concern for invasive infection. The use of a commercially available acidified liquid product with higher protein content was implemented to address these two concerns. During the course of this implementation, poor growth and clinically significant acidosis of infants on Acidified Liquid HMF (ALHMF) was observed. The purpose of this study was to quantify those observations by comparing infant outcomes between groups receiving the ALHMF vs. infants receiving powdered HMF (PHMF). A retrospective chart review compared outcomes of human milk-fed premature infants <2000 g receiving the ALHMF (n = 23) and the PHMF (n = 46). Infant growth, enteral feeding tolerance and provision, and incidence of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), metabolic acidosis, and diaper dermatitis were compared between the two groups. No infants were excluded from this study based on acuity. Use of ALHMF resulted in a higher incidence of metabolic acidosis (p = 0.002). Growth while on HMF as measured in both g/kg/day (10.59 vs. 15.37, p < 0.0001) and in g/day (23.66 vs. 31.27, p = 0.0001) was slower in the ALHMF group, on increased mean cal/kg/day (128.7 vs. 117.3, p = 0.13) with nearly twice as many infants on the ALHMF requiring increased fortification of enteral feedings beyond 24 cal/ounce to promote adequate growth (48% vs. 26%, p = 0.10). Although we were not powered to study NEC as a primary outcome, NEC was significantly increased in the ALHMF group. (13% vs. 0%, p = 0.03). Use of a LHMF in an unrestricted NICU population resulted in an increase in clinical complications within a high-acuity NICU, including metabolic acidosis and poor growth. Although further research is needed to assess outcomes among infants with a variety of clinical acuities, gestational ages, and weights to confirm these findings, based on this experience, caution is urged to avoid potential risks.
Long-Term Clinical Outcomes of Peritoneal Dialysis Patients: 9-Year Experience of a Single Center from North India
Authors: Vikrant Sanjay
Published: January 2014

Objective

There is a paucity of published data on the outcome of maintenance peritoneal dialysis (PD) since the initiation of continuous ambulatory PD (CAPD) in India in 1991. The purpose of this study is to report long-term clinical outcomes of PD patients at a single center.

Design

Retrospective study.

Setting

A government-owned tertiary-care hospital in North India.

Patients

Patients who were initiated on CAPD between October 2002 and June 2011, and who survived and/or had more than 6 months’ follow-up on this treatment with last follow-up till December 31, 2011, were studied.

Results

A total of 60 patients were included in the analysis. The mean age of the patients was 60.2 ± 9.2 years. The majority (65%) of the patients lived in rural areas. A high proportion (47%) were diabetic and 62% had ≥ 2 comorbidities. Total duration on peritoneal dialysis treatment was 1,773 patient-months (148 patient-years) with a mean duration of 29.6 ± 23 patient-months and median duration of 25 patient-months (range 6 – 110 patient-months). Overall patient and technique survival at 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 years was 77%, 53%, 25%, 15%, and 10% respectively. Patient survival of diabetics vs non-diabetics at 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 years was 68% vs 84%, 54% vs 53%, 14% vs 34%, 11% vs 19%, and 11% vs 13%, respectively. The mortality in non-diabetics (16/32) was less than that in diabetic (18/28) patients (p = not significant). The main cause of mortality in these patients was cardiac followed by sepsis. There were 58 episodes of peritonitis. The rate of peritonitis was 1 episode per 30.6 patient-months or 0.39 episodes per patient-year. Furthermore, the total number of episodes of peritonitis and number of episodes of peritonitis per patient were higher in the non-survival group (p < 0.05). The incidence of tuberculosis (TB), herpes zoster (HZ) and hernias was 15%, 10% and 5% respectively.

Conclusion

The study reports long-term outcomes of the PD patients, the majority of whom were elderly with a high burden of comorbidities. There was a high proportion of diabetics. The survival of diabetic vs non-diabetic and elderly vs non-elderly PD patients was similar in our study. The mortality in non-diabetics was less than that in diabetic patients. TB and HZ were common causes of morbidity. Peritonitis was associated with mortality in these patients.
The Association between Arterial Stiffness and Fluid Status in Peritoneal Dialysis Patients
Authors: Kocyigit Ismail , Sipahioglu Murat Hayri , Orscelik Ozcan , Unal Aydin , Celik Ahmet , Abbas Samer R. , Zhu Fansan , Tokgoz Bulent , Dogan Ali , Oymak Oktay , Kotanko Peter , Levin Nathan W.
Published: January 2014

Objectives

In this study our aim was to evaluate the relationship between degree of fluid status and arterial stiffness measured by pulse wave velocity (PWV) in peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients. Fluid status was determined by different methods including fluid overload measured by bioimpedance (Body Composition Monitor, BCM), calf normalized resistivity (CNR), plasma N-terminal fragment of B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) and extracellular to intracellular water ratio (ECW/ICW).

Methods

Sixty PD patients were evaluated. They were stratified into normo- and hypervolemic groups according to their fluid overload (FO). CNR was calculated from resistance at 5 kHz using calf bioimpedance spectroscopy. Arterial stiffness was assessed by PWV. Additionally, all patients underwent transthoracic echocardiography and had levels of NT-proBNP measured.

Results

PWV was higher in the hypervolemic compared to normovolemic patients (9.99 ± 2.4 m/sec vs 7.48 ± 2.3 m/sec, p < 0.001). Hypervolemic patients had higher NT-proBNP levels (3065 ± 981 pg/mL vs 1095 ± 502 pg/mL, p < 0.001), a higher ratio of ECW/ICW; (0.93 ± 0.11 vs 0.81 ± 0.08, p < 0.001) and lower CNR (13.7 ± 2.4 vs 16.0 ± 3.3 W m3/kg*10−2, p = 0.005). NT-pro BNP level, ECW/ICW ratio, relative FO, and left ventricular (LV) mass index were positively and CNR negatively correlated with PWV. Relative FO and CNR independently predicted PWV in multivariate analysis adjusted for age, duration of PD, body mass index and mean arterial pressure.

Conclusions

Arterial stiffness is increased in fluid-overloaded PD patients. Our results indicated that fluid status is an independent predictor of PWV.
Bioimpedance Spectroscopy for the Detection of Fluid Overload in Chinese Peritoneal Dialysis Patients
Authors: Kwan Bonnie Ching-Ha , Szeto Cheuk-Chun , Chow Kai-Ming , Law Man-Ching , Cheng Mei Shan , Leung Chi-Bon , Pang Wing-Fai , Kwong Vickie Wai-Ki , Li Philip Kam-Tao
Published: January 2014

Background

Fluid overload probably contributes to the cardiovascular risk of peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients. We studied the relationship between over-hydration as determined by bioimpedance spectroscopy and dialysis adequacy, nutritional status, and arterial stiffness in Chinese PD patients.

Methods

We studied 122 asymptomatic prevalent PD patients: bioimpedance spectroscopy, arterial pulse wave velocity, dialysis adequacy and nutritional status were determined.

Results

Of the 122 patients, 88 (72.1%) had over-hydration of ≥ 1 L, while 25 (20.5%) were ≥ 5 L. Over-hydration significantly correlated with total body water (r = 0.474, p < 0.001) and extracellular water (r = 0.755, p < 0.001). Over-hydration was more severe in male and diabetic patients, and significantly correlated with Charlson's comorbidity score, blood pressure, body mass index, body weight, peritoneal transport characteristics, and carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity. Over-hydration significantly correlated with Kt/V (r = -0.287, p = 0.016), serum albumin level (r = -0.465, p < 0.001) and malnutrition inflammation score (r = 0.410, p = 0.006), but not residual renal function.

Conclusion

Over-hydration is common in asymptomatic Chinese PD patients. The degree of over-hydration is particularly pronounced in patients who are inadequately dialyzed, have multiple comorbid conditions and low serum albumin levels. Over-hydration is associated with high blood pressure and arterial stiffness, and may contribute to the excessive risk of cardiovascular disease in this group of patients.
PLAYING GOD IN NIGERIAN POLITICAL EXPERIENCE: TOWARDS A CHRISTIAN RESPONSIBILITY / DIEVO VAIDMUO NIGERIJOS POLITINIUOSE POTYRIUOSE: LINK KRIKŠČIONIŠKOSIOS ATSAKOMYBĖS
Authors: Igboin Benson Ohihon
Published: January 2014

The Nigerian universe is a religious one; all phenomena and experiences are apparently explained in the supernatural. It is in this sense that religion and politics are inseparable, though ambidextrous. In this sense, the theoretical or constitutional separation thesis differs from the apodictic demonstrative reality. The latter form of this relationship attributes all events to acts of God, whether good or evil, but more evil than good. The act, will or grace of God (Insha'Allah) in the Nigerian political experience, in the assessment of Christian principles, calls for an evaluation of the political and politicians' recourse to God in the face of anti-God and anti-people display of political power. It is the argument of this paper that God is an alibi in Nigerian political development, thus making the political system to play God. Through the gristmill of critical analysis, it is argued that Christian eligible voters in a democracy bear crucial responsibility of not only correctly and critically, in a contextual manner, interpreting the scriptures, but also going beyond prayer for leadership, which source and ascendancy to power is questionable and illegitimate. The Christian responsibility must therefore be comprehensive, authentic and pragmatic.

Santrauka

Nigerijos pasaulis yra religinis: visi reiškiniai ir potyriai akivaizdžiai aiškinami antgamtiškumu. Šia prasme religija ir politika yra neatskiriamos, tačiau dviveidės. Tad teorinio ar konstitucinio atsidalijimo tezė skiriasi nuo apodiktinės akivaizdžios realybės. Pastaroji šio santykio forma visus įvykius priskiria Dievo veiklai, – tiek gėrį, tiek ir blogį, tačiau labiau blogį nei gėrį. Išanalizavus krikščionybės principus, Nigerijos politiniame gyvenime Dievo (Insha'Allah) veikla, valia ar malonė antdievo bei antžmoniu, demonstruojančių politinę galią, akivaizdoje kviečia įvertinti politikos ir politikų atsigręžima į Dievą. Šiame straipsnyje argumentuojama, kad Dievas yra Nigerijos politinės raidos alibi, verčiantis politinę sistemą vaidinti Dievą. Pasitelkiant griežtą kritinę analizę, įrodinėjama, kad tinkami rinkėjai demokratijos sąlygomis yra atsakingi ne tik korektiškai ir kritiškai, kontekstualiu būdu interpretuodami šventuosius raštus, bet taip pat ir dėl vadovavimo, kurio šaltinis ir įtaka valdžiai yra abejotini ir neteisėti. Todėl krikščioniškoji atsakomybė turi būti visapusė, autentiška ir pragmatiška.