bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fixed Dose Combination Therapy of Antioxidants in Treatment of Idiopathic Oligoasthenozoospermia: Results of a Randomized, Double-blind, Placebo-controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Malik Sonia , Kalra Sanjay , Gopinath PM , Saxena Ajit , Kalra Bharti , Kochhar Kapil , Zaveri Hemant
Published: June 2013

Introduction

To assess the effectiveness and safety of fixed dose combination (FDC) of antioxidants in treatment of idiopathic oligoasthenozoospermia.

Materials and methods

Placebo-controlled, Double-blind, randomized, Parallel three arm, Multicentric trial.

Setting

Fertility clinics of five centers across India.

Patients

One hundred and thirty-eight male subjects, aged between 21 and 50 years and subfertile for 1 year or more with the following baseline sperm selection criteria: Concentration <15 million/ml and total sperm motility <40%.

Intervention(s)

Eligible subjects were randomized to either of the three arms in a double-blind manner, i.e. arm 1 was given 2 tablets twice daily of FDC of antioxidants (coenzyme-Q10: 50 mg, L-carnitine: 500 mg, lycopene: 2.5 mg and zinc: 12.5 mg); arm 2 was given 1 tablet of FDC of antioxidants and one tablet of placebo twice daily and arm 3 was two tablets twice daily of matching placebo all for 180 days.

Main outcome measure(s)

The primary outcome measures were improvement in sperm count and sperm motility, whereas pregnancy rate was the secondary efficacy outcome.

Results

Compared to placebo, a statistically significant improvement was seen in sperm count (14.8-26.35 in arm 1 and 14.37-24.8 million/ml in arm 2, p < 0.0001), and sperm total motility (39.2-51.6% in arm 1 and 38.4-50.1% in arm 2, p < 0.0001), at 90 days, and treatment further improved these parameters at day 180. No intergroup difference was seen between arm 1 and arm 2. Mild adverse event of upper gastrointestinal discomfort by 8 subjects (three in arm 1; one in arm 2 and four subjects in arm 3) were reported. No serious adverse event was seen in the study.

Conclusion

Exogenous administration of fixed dose combination of antioxidants is a safe and effective therapy in improving the male subfertility.

How to cite this article

Gopinath PM, Kalra B, Saxena A, Malik S, Kochhar K, Kalra S, Zaveri H. Fixed Dose Combination Therapy of Antioxidants in Treatment of Idiopathic Oligoasthenozoospermia: Results of a Randomized, Doubleblind, Placebo-controlled Clinical Trial. Int J Infertility Fetal Med 2013;4(1):6-13.
Disorder of Sexual Development with Sex Chromosome Mosaicism 46 XY and 47 XXY
Authors: Govindaraj Sampath Kumar , Muralidhar Lakshmidevi , Saxena Rajiv Kumar
Published: June 2013

Incidence of abnormalities of sex chromosome is reported to be 1 in 448 new born babies. The association between clinical phenotype and sex chromosome abnormality is highly variable. A 34-year-old unmarried female patient reported to out patient department with complaints of primary amenorrhea and occasional pain in the lower abdomen. On examination, her height was 160 cm and body mass index (BMI) was 27 kg/m2. Breast development was Tanner stage 4, pubic hair was tanners stage 1 and no axillary hair was noted. Ultrasonography showed a hypoechoic structure in the place of uterus measuring around 1.7 × 1.1 × 1.0 cm and hypoechoic structures were also noted in relation to iliac vessels suggestive of gonads. Karyotyping showed 46 XY and 47 XXY mosaicism. Bilateral gonadectomy was done and histopathology showed testicular atrophy with Leydig cell hyperplasia. This case is reported in view of the interesting clinical presentation of this rare mosaicism.

How to cite this article

Govindaraj SK, Muralidhar L, Venkatesh S, Saxena RK. Disorder of Sexual Development with Sex Chromosome Mosaicism 46 XY and 47 XXY. Int J Infertility Fetal Med 2013;4(1):34-37.
Globalisation Effect on Inflation in the Great Moderation Era: New Evidence from G10 Countries
Authors: Qin Duo , He Xinhua
Published: June 2013

Dynamic econometric models are built individually for ten countries from G10 during the Great Moderation period, with the aim of analysing counterfactually the globalisation effect on inflation. The main findings are (i) the effect is highly heterogeneous from country to country; (ii) increases in trade openness could be either inflationary or deflationary whereas increased imports from low-cost emerging-market economies are mostly deflationary; and (iii) there is almost no direct globalisation impact as far as inflation persistence is concerned while the impact on inflation variability can be positive as well as negative. Overall, globalisation is found to have contributed positively to lowering rather than stabilising inflation during the Great Moderation era.
Optimizing Saharan dust CALIPSO retrievals
Authors: Amiridis V. , Wandinger U. , Marinou E. , Giannakaki E. , Tsekeri A. , Basart S. , Kazadzis S. , Gkikas A. , Taylor M. , Baldasano J. , Ansmann A.
Published: June 2013

Abstract. We demonstrate improvements in CALIPSO dust extinction retrievals over North Africa and Europe when corrections are applied regarding the Saharan dust lidar ratio assumption, the separation of dust portion in detected dust mixtures, and the averaging scheme introduced in the Level 3 CALIPSO product. First, a universal, spatially constant lidar ratio of 58 sr instead of 40 sr is applied to individual Level 2 dust-related backscatter products. The resulting aerosol optical depths show an improvement compared with synchronous and co-located AERONET measurements. An absolute bias of the order of −0.03 has been found, improving on the statistically significant biases of the order of −0.10 reported in the literature for the original CALIPSO product. When compared with the MODIS co-located AOD product, the CALIPSO negative bias is even less for the lidar ratio of 58 sr. After introducing the new lidar ratio for the domain studied, we examine potential improvements to the climatological CALIPSO Level 3 extinction product: (1) by introducing a new methodology for the calculation of pure dust extinction from dust mixtures and (2) by applying an averaging scheme that includes zero extinction values for the non-dust aerosol types detected. The scheme is applied at a horizontal spatial resolution of 1° × 1° for ease of comparison with the instantaneous and co-located dust extinction profiles simulated by the BSC-DREAM8b dust model. Comparisons show that the extinction profiles retrieved with the proposed methodology reproduce the well-known model biases per sub-region examined. The very good agreement of the proposed CALIPSO extinction product with respect to AERONET, MODIS and the BSC-DREAM8b dust model, makes this dataset an ideal candidate for the provision of an accurate and robust multi-year dust climatology over North Africa and Europe.
The role of horizontal model resolution in assessing the transport of CO in a middle latitude cyclone using WRF-Chem
Authors: Klich C. A. , Fuelberg H. E.
Published: June 2013

Abstract. We use the Weather Research and Forecasting with Chemistry (WRF-Chem) online chemical transport model to simulate a middle latitude cyclone in East Asia at three different horizontal resolutions (45, 15, and 5 km grid spacing). The cyclone contains a typical warm conveyor belt (WCB) with an embedded squall line that passes through an area having large surface concentrations (>400 ppbv) of carbon monoxide (CO). Model output from WRF-Chem is used to compare differences between the large-scale CO vertical transport by the WCB (the 45 km simulation) with the smaller-scale transport due to its convection (the 5 km simulation). Forward trajectories are calculated from WRF-Chem output using HYSPLIT. At 45 km grid spacing, the WCB exhibits gradual ascent, lofting surface CO to 6–7 km. Upon reaching the warm front, the WCB and associated CO ascend more rapidly and later turn eastward over the Pacific Ocean. Convective transport at 5 km resolution with explicitly resolved convection occurs much more rapidly, with surface CO lofted to altitudes greater than 10 km in 1 h or less. We also compute CO vertical mass fluxes to compare differences in transport due to the different grid spacings. Upward CO flux exceeds 110 000 t h−1 in the domain with explicit convection when the squall line is at peak intensity, while fluxes from the two coarser resolutions are an order of magnitude smaller. Specific areas of interest within the 5 km domain are defined to compare the magnitude of convective transport to that within the entire 5 km region. Although convection encompasses only a small portion of the 5 km domain, it is responsible for ~40% of the upward CO transport. We also examine the vertical transport due to a short wave trough and its associated area of convection, not related to the cyclone, that lofts CO to the upper troposphere. Results indicate that fine-scale resolution with explicitly resolved convection is important when assessing the vertical transport of surface emissions in areas of deep convection.
Long-term observations of positive cluster ion concentration, sources and sinks at the high altitude site of the Puy de Dôme
Authors: Rose C. , Boulon J. , Hervo M. , Holmgren H. , Asmi E. , Ramonet M. , Laj P. , Sellegri K.
Published: June 2013

Abstract. Cluster particles (0.8–1.9 nm) are key entities involved in nucleation and new particle formation processes in the atmosphere. Cluster ions were characterized in clear sky conditions at the Puy de Dôme station (1465 m a.s.l). The studied dataset spread over five years (February 2007–February 2012), which provided a unique chance to catch seasonal variations of cluster ion properties at high altitude. Statistical values of the cluster ion concentration and diameter are reported for both positive and negative polarities. Cluster ions were found to be ubiquitous at the Puy de Dôme and displayed an annual variation with lower concentrations in spring. Positive cluster ions were less numerous than negative ones but were larger in diameters. Negative cluster ion properties seemed insensitive to the occurrence of a new particle formation (NPF) event while positive cluster ions appeared to be significantly more numerous and larger on event days. The parameters of the balance equation for the positive cluster concentration are reported, separately for the different seasons and for the NPF event days and non-event days. The steady state assumption suggests that the ionization rate is balanced with two sinks which are the ion recombination and the attachment on aerosol particles, referred as "aerosol ion sink". The aerosol ion sink was found to be higher during the warm season and dominated the loss of ions. The positive ionization rates derived from the balance equation were well correlated with the ionization rates obtained from radon measurement, and they were on average higher in summer and fall compared to winter and spring. Neither the aerosol ion sink nor the ionization rate were found to be significantly different on event days compared to non-event days, and thus they were not able to explain the different positive cluster concentrations between event and non-event days. Hence, the excess of positive small ions on event days may derive from an additional source of ions coupled with the fact that the steady state was not verified on event days.
Macrofaunal community inside and outside of the Darwin Mounds Special Area of Conservation, NE Atlantic
Authors: Serpetti N. , Gontikaki E. , Narayanaswamy B. E. , Witte U.
Published: June 2013

Abstract. Spatial distribution and patchiness of deep sea macrofaunal communities were studied from samples collected in the Rockall Trough, NE Atlantic. In June 2011, two areas, located outside and within the Darwin Mound Special Area of Conservation (SAC), were sampled. Three megacores were deployed in each area at approximately 900 m depth. The two areas, ~ 18 km apart, did not differ in terms of sediment organic matter and percentage of mud content, but small significant differences were found in sediment median grain size and depth. Macrofaunal communities were found to differ significantly, with the difference mostly driven by changes in the abundance of polychaetes, crustaceans and nematodes whilst no significant differences were seen for the other phyla. Whereas overall macrofaunal abundance was higher outside the SAC compared to within, this pattern varies considerably between phyla. Diversity indices showed no significant differences between protected and unprotected sites. Deep-water trawling regularly take place outside the Darwin Mounds SAC whilst the area inside the SAC has been closed to bottom trawling since 2004, and the above distribution patterns are discussed in the context of both environmental and anthropogenic causes.
Nanofiltration for water and wastewater treatment – a mini review
Authors: Shon H. K. , Phuntsho S. , Chaudhary D. S. , Vigneswaran S. , Cho J.
Published: June 2013

Abstract. The application of membrane technology in water and wastewater treatment is increasing due to stringent water quality standards. Nanofiltration (NF) is one of the widely used membrane processes for water and wastewater treatment in addition to other applications such as desalination. NF has replaced reverse osmosis (RO) membranes in many applications due to lower energy consumption and higher flux rates. This paper briefly reviews the application of NF for water and wastewater treatment including fundamentals, mechanisms, fouling challenges and their controls.
Landslide and debris flow susceptibility zonation using TRIGRS for the 2011 Seoul landslide event
Authors: Park D. W. , Nikhil N. V. , Lee S. R.
Published: June 2013

Abstract. This paper presents the results from application of a regional, physically-based stability model: Transient Rainfall Infiltration and Grid-based Regional Slope-stability analysis (TRIGRS) for a catchment on Woomyeon Mountain, Seoul, Korea. This model couples an infinite-slope stability analysis with a one-dimensional analytical solution to predict the transient pore pressure response to the infiltration of rainfall. TRIGRS also adopts the Geographic Information Systems (GIS) framework for determining the whole behaviour of a slope. In this paper, we suggest an index for evaluating the results produced by the model. Particular attention is devoted to the prediction of routes of debris flow, using a runoff module. In this context, the paper compares observed landslide and debris flow events with those predicted by the TRIGRS model. The TRIGRS model, originally developed to predict shallow landslides, has been extended in this study for application to debris flows. The results predicted by the TRIGRS model are presented as safety factor (FS) maps corresponding to transient rainfall events, and in terms of debris flow paths using methods proposed by several researchers in hydrology. In order to quantify the accuracy of the model, we proposed an index called LRclass (landslide ratio for each predicted FS class). The LRclass index is mainly applied in regions where the landslide scar area is not well defined (or is unknown), in order to avoid over-estimation of the model results. The use of the TRIGRS routing module was proposed to predict the paths of debris flow, especially in areas where the rheological properties and erosion rates of the materials are difficult to obtain. Although an improvement in accuracy is needed, this module is very useful for preliminary spatiotemporal assessment over wide areas. In summary, the TRIGRS model is a powerful tool of use to decision makers for susceptibility mapping, particularly when linked with various advanced applications using GIS spatial functions.
Assigning Wikipedia editing: Triangulation toward understanding university student engagement
Authors: Roth Amy , Davis Rochelle , Carver Brian
Published: June 2013

Professors across the United States participated in the first direct effort by the Wikimedia Foundation, the non-profit that supports Wikipedia, to engage the academic community and integrate Wikipedia into a class assignment. Three project participants, from different areas of study, conducted independent research into university student motivations for a Wikipedia assignment. We triangulate those data in this paper to describe how student motivations differ for a Wikipedia assignment from a traditional research paper assignment. Several themes emerged through the research; many of the dominant themes were linked. The global audience both motivated and intimidated students. Students appreciated the usefulness of contributing to Wikipedia and found satisfaction in making information accessible to the public worldwide. Students engaged with an online community and appreciated feedback and collaboration. Some recognized a degree of possessiveness that they felt toward the article. Both instructors and students observed that student research and writing skills improved. Overall, qualitative data indicated that students are more engaged in a Wikipedia assignment than a traditional research paper assignment.
Access, accommodation, and science: Knowledge in an “open” world
Authors: Kelly Ashley Rose , Autry Meagan Kittle
Published: June 2013

The rising popularity of open access (OA) publishing in scholarly communities is purportedly leading to increased public knowledge. At least, that’s a key piece of the OA moral argument. This is especially true for discussions of scientific research. We argue, however, that while there have been significant moves to provide better material/technological access to research, OA advocates must still tackle the issue of making original scientific research conceptually accessible. Despite being freely available on the Internet, articles are not also by default linguistically, conceptually, or ideologically accessible to the global public(s) they are intended to reach. In this article, we examine how OA coupled with innovative scientific communication practices can help align the ideals of OA with the realities of complex, specialized genres of writing to provide better, more “open,” access to research. We look to PLOS ONE and the PLOS Blog Network to discuss how the innovative material access of PLOS ONE coupled with the communication strategies of PLOS Bloggers can work together toward more openly accessible original scientific research articles.
Performing Ethnicity in Southern Shan State, Burma/Myanmar: The Ozi and Gong Traditions of the Myelat
Authors: Douglas Gavin
Published: June 2013

Between the Burman lowlands and the Shan highlands of Myanmar lies a transitional zone known as the myelat that is home to several ethnic minorities. The Danu, Pa-O, Taungyo, and Intha communities all define themselves in contrast to the Burman and Shan populations that dominate to the west and the east. In this paper I examine the performance of ethnic identities through their use of distinct ozi drum traditions articulated with different drum sizes, rhythms, accompanying instruments, tempos, dance props, and gestures. The ozi and gong ensembles operate as markers of difference between the region’s ethnicities, but also, given their stylistic similarities, reveal a clear example of the malleable and relational aspects of identity in a region of the world where ethnic affiliation is the primary marker of social identity and also the source of much political strife.
Connecting Histories: Liturgical Songs as Classical Compositions in Hindustānī Music
Authors: Ho Meilu
Published: June 2013

Although a majority of Hindustani classical vocal compositions are sung in the Braj language and are Vaisoava in content, the role that this musical, poetic, and religious culture has played in the evolution of the art tradition has remained relatively under-discussed. I uncover a repertoire of liturgical songs (kīrtan) that have been performed and recorded as canonical compositions of classical lineages (gharāna), in which the transformation of form, style, and context in the courtly environment rendered the medieval, Braj-based, Vaiṣṇava poet, poetic content, and temple ritual use anonymous, unrecognizable, and irrelevant. In doing so, I propose that this geographical and culture area and its liturgical practices be foregrounded in our view of history, both as a source for composition and as a pre-modern, stylistic core for the latterly evolved, classical tradition.
Listening in the Wilderness: The Audience Reception of Oliver Mtukudzi’s Music in the Zimbabwean Diaspora
Authors: Kyker Jennifer W.
Published: June 2013

Documenting the diasporic audience reception of Zimbabwean popular musician Oliver Mtukudzi, I argue that transnational identities and subjectivities are not only shaped through live performance, but are also negotiated, articulated, and produced through musical listening. Foregrounding intersections between diaspora, kinship, and moral obligation, I suggest that Mtukudzi’s songs enable audiences to symbolically reposition themselves within the social relations of a remembered home. In the process, audiences routinely interpret Mtukudzi’s songs about migration and diaspora, ostensibly directed beyond Zimbabwe’s borders, as reflecting back within the nation, conveying a powerful yet subtle critique of postcolonial domestic politics.
John Blacking, Composer
Authors: Rogers Victoria
Published: June 2013

John Blacking (1928-90) made his mark as an ethnomusicologist and social anthropologist, and his enduring reputation stems from his work in these areas. Yet his interests were more far reaching and included cognition and language, dance and movement, the biology of music making, music psychology, and--perhaps surprisingly--composition. The very existence of Blacking’s compositions raises a number of enticing questions. What was the nature of his musical language? What might a study of his compositions tell us about his ethnomusicology? What might his ethnomusicology tell us about his compositions? These questions give rise to the central focus of this article: the intersection of Blacking’s composition and ethnomusicology. The article concludes that Blacking’s conceptualization of music as an expression of social processes and cultural values extended beyond non-Western musics, infusing the compositions which he himself created within the musical paradigm of his own culture.
Results of reference pricing and reimbursement discount rate schemes of Turkey
Authors: Kockaya Guvenc , Atikeler Kagan , Tuna Esin , Kılıc Pelin , Tanyeri Pelin , Umman Nurcan , Vural İsmail Mert , Altun Omer , Akbulat Akif , Artiran Guven , Simsek Ercan , Gursoz Hakkı , Kerman Saim
Published: June 2013

OBJECTIVES: General Directorate of Pharmaceuticals and Pharmacy (IEGM) is responsible for setting all prices for human medicinal products. The reference pricing system is used for setting these prices. Reference countries are reviewed annually and may be subject to certain alterations. There were 5 reference countries in 2009: Spain, Italy, Germany, France and Greece. The aim of this study is to show the distribution of reference countries which were used for reference pricing.METHODS: The price list of pharmaceuticals which was published by IEGM on 15.04.2011 was used for analysis. Distribution of reference countries and prices were evaluated.RESULTS: Prices of 6,251 generic and 3,703 original products were set according to the price list. 5,283 of generics and 3,306 of originals were in the positive list for reimbursement. Reference pricing was used for 2,352 generics and 2,281 originals. Prices of the remaining were set outside of reference pricing. 32 different countries were used for reference pricing. Italy was the most popular country for reference pricing. Even if it was not a reference country, Germany was used in some of the pharmaceuticals. The average reimbursement discount rate and price were 24.43% and 249 TL, respectively. There were no colerations between price and reimbursement discount rate, or reference country and reimbursement rate.CONCLUSION: It has been shown that Italy has the highest impact on the pricing of all pharmaceuticals in Turkey. Even if it was not a reference country, Germany showed to affect pharmaceuticals more than other countries which were also not used for reference pricing. Even if reimbursement discount rates are stated by the Social Security Institution (SGK), there are different discount rates for pharmaceuticals. The analysis stated that there were correlation between price, country and discount rates. This analysis is first for the literature. Further analysis is necessary in the light of price changes and newly launched pharmaceuticals.
From the Quixotic to the Pragmatic: The Hamburg Declaration, Adult Education, and Work
Authors: Rose Amy
Published: June 2013

This chapter examines Theme 5 of the Hamburg Declaration: Adult learning and the changing world of work.
The Economics of Adult Education
Authors: Desjardins Richard
Published: June 2013

This chapter considers Theme 9 of the Hamburg Declaration: The economics of adult learning.
Whither Utopia?
Authors: Nesbit Tom
Published: June 2013

This chapter reaffirms the necessity of rekindling the hope and promise of the Hamburg Declaration.
Ultra‐Flexible Boron‐Oxygen 3D Solid‐State Networks
Authors: Claeyssens Frederik , Hart Judy N. , Norman Nicholas C. , Allan Neil L.
Published: June 2013

The existence of ultra‐flexible low‐energy forms of boron oxides (B2O3 and BO) is demonstrated, in particular structures in which B3O3 or B4O2 six‐membered rings are linked by single B‐O‐B bridges. The minima in the energy landscapes are remarkably broad; the variation in the internal energies is very small over a very large range of volumes. Such volume changes may even exceed 200%. This remarkable behavior is attributed predominantly to the pronounced angular flexibility of the B‐O‐B bridges linking the rings, which is unusual for a covalent bond. At larger volumes, the structures are nanoporous; the pores collapse upon compression with negligible change in energy, making these suitable as guest‐host materials. In marked contrast, in other materials where low density frameworks have been reported or predicted, such low‐density phases are considerably higher in energy. The flexibility of the structures also offers a resolution of the long‐standing controversy reconciling the structure and density of vitreous B2O3.
Remote‐Controlled Hydrogel Depots for Time‐Scheduled Vaccination
Authors: Gübeli Raphael J. , Hövermann Désirée , Seitz Hanna , Rebmann Balder , Schoenmakers Ronald G. , Ehrbar Martin , Charpin‐El Hamri Ghislaine , Daoud‐El Baba Marie , Werner Martin , Müller Martin , Weber Wilfried
Published: June 2013

Remote‐controlled drug depots represent a highly valuable tool for the timely controlled administration of pharmaceuticals in a patient compliant manner. Here, the first pharmacologically controlled material that allows for the scheduled induction of a medical response in mice is described. To this aim, a novel, humanized biohybrid material that releases its cargo in response to a small‐molecule stimulus licensed for human use is developed. The functionality of the material in mice is demonstrated by the remote‐controlled delivery of a vaccine against the oncogenic human papillomavirus type 16. It is shown that the biohybrid depot‐mediated immunoprotection is equivalent to the classical multi‐injection‐based vaccination. These results indicate that this material can be used as a universal remote‐controlled vehicle for the patient‐compliant delivery of vaccines and pharmaceuticals.
Neanderthal teeth from moula‐guercy, Ardèche, France
Authors: Hlusko Leslea J. , Carlson Joshua P. , Guatelli‐Steinberg Debbie , Krueger Kristin L. , Mersey Ben , Ungar Peter S. , Defleur Alban
Published: June 2013

Here we describe dental remains from a Neanderthal fossil assemblage from Moula‐Guercy, France. Our report demonstrates that the Moula‐Guercy hominid remains contribute important morphological, developmental, and behavioral data to understanding Neanderthal evolutionary history. We include gross comparative morphological descriptions and enamel surface microstructure and microwear data. These teeth reveal numerous characteristics that are diagnostic of Neanderthals and provide no evidence for the presence of any other hominid taxa. Enamel growth increment data from the Moula‐Guercy specimens yield evidence of a Neanderthal pattern of development, although at the lower end of the range of variation. The presence of a significant number of linear enamel hypoplasias indicates that these individuals were stressed during childhood. Molar microwear data suggest that these Neanderthals did not differ significantly from modern humans in terms of the fracture properties of the food they were consuming. The incisor microwear and macro striations provide evidence that these individuals may have been using their anterior teeth as tools, similar to the practices of several modern human populations such as the Inuit, Ipiutak, and Australian Aboriginals, and reminiscent of evidence from other Neanderthals from Krapina, Croatia, as well as the 600,000 year old hominids from Sima de los Huesos, Spain. Am J Phys Anthropol 151:477–491, 2013.© 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Desloratadine‐montelukast combination improves quality of life and decreases nasal obstruction in patients with perennial allergic rhinitis
Authors: Cingi Cemal , Oghan Fatih , Eskiizmir Gorkem , Yaz Aytekin , Ural Ahmet , Erdogmus Nagehan
Published: June 2013

Background

The effects of desloratadine‐montelukast combination on quality of life (QoL) and nasal airflow of patients with perennial allergic rhinitis (PAR) has not been reported. The objective of this work was investigate the efficacy of desloratadine‐montelukast combination on nasal obstruction and health‐related quality of life (HRQL) of patients with PAR.

Methods

The patients with PAR (n = 40) were assessed using acoustic rhinometry (AcR) and Rhinoconjunctivitis QoL Questionnaire (RQLQ) before therapy. Desloratadine‐montelukast fixed‐dose combination treatment was applied to every patient once daily. The AcR and RQLQ score were reevaluated at the first and third months; and statistical comparison of pretreatment and posttreatment results was performed.

Results

Nasal symptoms and signs such as itching, sneezing, discharge, congestion, and edema, and color change of turbinates have been decreased after treatment. In AcR, minimum cross‐sectional area (MCA) measurements and volume results were increased after the treatment. Correlation was found between the volume results and nasal discharge and/or congestion in right nasal passages. In left nasal passages, statistical relation was observed between the MCA and itching and/or change of turbinate color (p < 0.05). A significant decrease in the overall RQLQ score was determined at the first and third months of therapy. The difference between scores at baseline and end of the first and third months for all domains was statically significant (p < 0.001). The treatment difference in change from the first month to the end of the third month was statistically significant (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Desloratadine‐montelukast combination therapy causes subjective and objective decrease in nasal obstruction, reduces the other symptoms of PAR and improves the disease‐specific QoL.
Regulation of inflammation‐associated olfactory neuronal death and regeneration by the type II tumor necrosis factor receptor
Authors: Pozharskaya Tatyana , Liang Jonathan , Lane Andrew P.
Published: June 2013

Background

Olfactory loss is a debilitating symptom of chronic rhinosinusitis. To study the impact of inflammation on the olfactory system, the inducible olfactory inflammation (IOI) transgenic mouse was created in which inflammation can be turned on and off within the olfactory epithelium. In this study, the type II tumor necrosis factor (TNF) receptor (TNFR2) was knocked out, and the effect on the olfactory loss phenotype was assessed.

Methods

IOI mice were bred to TNFR2 knockout mice to yield progeny IOI mice lacking the TNFR2 receptor (TNFR2−/−). TNF‐α expression was induced within the olfactory epithelium for 6 weeks to generate chronic inflammation. Olfactory function was assayed by electro‐olfactogram (EOG), and olfactory tissue was processed for histology and immunohistochemical staining.

Results

Compared to IOI mice with wild‐type TNFR2, IOI mice lacking the TNFR2 demonstrated similar levels of inflammatory infiltration and enlargement of the subepithelial layer. However, IOI‐TNFR2−/− mice differed markedly in that the neuronal layer was largely preserved and active progenitor cell proliferation was present. Odorant responses were maintained in the IOI‐TNFR2−/− mice, in contrast to IOI mice.

Conclusion

TNFR2 is the minor receptor for TNF‐α, but appears to play an important role in mediating TNF‐induced disruption of the olfactory system. This finding suggests that neuronal death and inhibition of proliferation in CRS may be mediated by TNFR2 on olfactory neurons and progenitor cells. Further studies are needed to elucidate the subcellular pathways involved and develop novel therapies for treating olfactory loss in the setting of CRS.
Microwave‐Assisted Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of Some Benzimidazole Derivatives Containing a 1,2,4‐Triazol Ring
Authors: Menteşe Emre , Karaali Nesrin , Yılmaz Fatih , Ülker Serdar , Kahveci Bahittin
Published: June 2013

A new series of 2‐(4‐(trifluoromethyl)phenyl)‐1H‐benzo[d]imidazole derivatives containing a 1,2,4‐triazole ring were synthesized via microwave technique. This efficient procedure provides pure products within a few minutes. The newly synthesized compounds were confirmed by 1H NMR and 13C NMR spectra and they were screened for their lipase inhibition and antioxidant activities. Compounds 4a, 4b, 5a, and 5b showed very good scavenging activity.
Untersuchungen zu Betonabplatzungen an Brückenkappen infolge Frost‐Taumitteleinwirkungen
Authors: Breitenbücher Rolf , Youn Bou‐Young
Published: June 2013

An den Beton für Brückenkappen werden zwei einander entgegenlaufende Anforderungen gestellt. Auf der einen Seite ist für einen hohen Frost‐Taumittelwiderstand (XF 4) ein niedriger Wasserzementwert anzustreben, auf der anderen Seite soll dieser Kennwert nicht zu niedrig sein, um die Betonfestigkeit und damit die rissbreitenbeschränkende Bewehrung nicht zu sehr anwachsen zu lassen.

In letzter Zeit sind mehrfach Frostabwitterungen an den Oberflächen von Brückenkappen festgestellt worden. Dies wird gelegentlich damit in Verbindung gebracht, dass heute vermehrt auch bei Brückenkappen CEM II‐ und CEM III‐Zemente anstelle der früher üblichen Portlandzemente verwendet werden. Um den Einfluss der verschiedenen beton‐und ausführungstechnischen Parameter auf den Frost‐Taumittelwiderstand unter den speziellen Randbedingungen von Brückenkappen zu erfassen, wurden einschlägige Laboruntersuchungen (CDF‐Tests) durchgeführt. Dabei zeigte sich u.a., dass der in ZTV‐ING für Kappenbetone als maximal zulässig vorgegebene w/z‐Wert von 0,50 grenzwertig ist. Nur eine geringfügige Überschreitung führte zu signifikanten Frostabwitterungen. Dies zeigte sich bei den Betonen mit CEM II‐Zementen noch stärker als bei denen mit CEM I‐Zement. Daher kommt bei Brückenkappen der Abstimmung von Zement und Wasserzementwert eine hohe Bedeutung zu.

Investigations of concrete scaling at edge beams of bridges due to freeze deicing salt attacks

Two nearly contrary requirements are set to the concrete of edge beams on bridges. On the one hand a low water‐cement‐ratio is sought with respect to a sufficient freeze deicing salt resistance (XF 4). On the other hand the same characteristic value should be not too low as the concrete strength and in sequence the crack‐limiting reinforcement should be kept below certain ranges.

In the last few years at several times scaling at concrete surfaces of edge beams on bridges due to the attack by freeze and deicing salt has been observed. This casually is associated with the fact, that today also in concretes for these edge beams more and more CEM II‐ and CEM III‐cements are used – contrary to the past, where traditionally CEM I‐cement had been applied. To check the influence of the various parameters of concrete and execution on the freeze deicing salt resistance considering the specific random conditions of bridges appropriate lab tests (CDF‐tests) had been performed. Amongst others it could be demonstrated that the w/c‐ratio, with 0.50 set in ZTV‐ING as maximum allowable value, seems to be marginal. Only a small exceeding of this value resulted in significant increased scaling. This was quite more evident in the concretes with CEM II‐cements than in those with CEM I. Thus the specific adjustment between cement and water‐cement‐ratio is of very high importance in concretes for edge beams on bridges.
Echtzeitgeregelte Massendämpfer für Wolgograd‐Brücke
Authors: Weber Felix , Distl Hans
Published: June 2013

Im Mai 2010 traten auf der Wolgograd‐Brücke windinduzierte Biegeschwingungen mit geschätzten Amplituden bis 40 cm auf. Seit November 2011 wird die Wolgograd‐Brücke durch adaptive Massendämpfer bedämpft, deren Frequenz und Dämpfung über geregelte MR‐Dämpfer in Echtzeit an die aktuelle Schwingfrequenz der Brücke angepasst sind. Im schlechtesten Fall bedämpft dieses Konzept die Brücke gleich stark wie passive Massendämpfer und in allen übrigen Fällen stärker. Diese Verbesserung ist mit ungefähr nur halb so viel Massendämpfermasse im Vergleich zu passiven Massendämpfern erreicht, was der Bauweise der Brücke entgegenkommt.

Real‐time controlled tuned mass dampers for Wolgograd Bridge

In May 2010, the Wolgograd Bridge underwent wind‐induced bending vibrations with estimated amplitudes of up to 40 cm. Since November 2011, the Wolgograd Bridge is mitigated by adaptive tuned mass dampers whose frequency and damping are adjusted to the actual frequency of vibration in real‐time by controlled MR dampers. This concept mitigates the bridge in the worst case similarly to and in all other cases better than passive tuned mass dampers. This improvement is achieved by approximately half the mass damper mass compared to passive tuned mass dampers which is a desirable feature for the bridge construction type.
WU‐Dächer – Weiße Dächer und Decken aus Stahlbeton
Authors: Bastert Heinrich , Conrad Wolfgang
Published: June 2013

Wasserundurchlässige Dächer und Decken in Betonbauweise, sogenannte “Weiße Dächer und Decken” oder kurz “WU‐Dächer”, folgen der in über vier Jahrzehnten entwickelten und angewandten WU‐Bauweise. Der Kenntniszuwachs aus Praxis und Grundlagenforschung der WU‐Bauweise ermöglicht mittlerweile die zielsichere Errichtung von Bauwerken, bei denen die konstruktiven Betonbauteile auch die dichtende Funktion gegenüber drückendem und nichtdrückendem Wasser erfolgreich übernehmen. Wie bei den für Bodenfeuchte und drückendes Wasser ausgelegten “Weißen Wannen” gilt die DAfStb‐Richtlinie “Wasserundurchlässige Bauwerke aus Beton” (WU‐Richtlinie) grundsätzlich auch für die WU‐Bauweise von Dächern und Decken. Dieser Beitrag befasst sich mit den planerischen und konstruktiven Besonderheiten dieser Bauweise, die sich ergänzend zu den Regelungen der o.g. Richtlinie bewährt haben und daher bei Planung und Bauausführung Beachtung finden sollten. Neben den mittlerweile bewährten Planungs‐ und Konstruktionsgrundsätzen wird auch der aktuelle Erfahrungsstand aus Sicht von Planern und Bauausführenden dargestellt.

Waterproof Concrete Roofs and Floors

Waterproof roofs and floors have been built for more than four decades in the construction of buildings, industrial facilities etc. The rules of the Code of Practice for Waterproof Concrete Structures published by the German Committee for Reinforced Concrete (DAfStb e. V.) also apply to waterproof roofs but they do not include detailed provisions regarding roofs and floors. Beyond the design and construction principles of the code of practice this paper gives additional information about design principles, concrete technology, and construction work that should be considered to ensure the quality of a waterproof reinforced concrete roof.
Einsparung von Grauer Energie bei Hochhäusern
Authors: Berger Tobias , Prasser Patrick , Reinke Hans Georg
Published: June 2013

Angesichts schrumpfender Ressourcen und der stetig zunehmenden Belastung unserer Umwelt durch Schadstoffe und zu deponierende Abfälle muss das Ziel im Bauwesen in einer erheblichen Neuorientierung der Konstruktionsweisen bestehen. Die gebaute Umwelt (Hochbau, Tiefbau, Infrastruktur) steht für ca. 35% des Energieverbrauchs, 35% der Emissionen, 50% des Ressourcenverbrauchs und – zumindest in Zentraleuropa – für mehr als 50% des Massenmüllaufkommens. Mittel‐ bis langfristig ist dies im Interesse einer nachhaltigen Bewahrung unserer Umwelt für die nach uns kommenden Generationen nicht mehr zu vertreten. Ziel muss sein, die permanente Entnahme von Rohstoffen aus der Natur stark zu reduzieren (langfristig auf Null) und gleichzeitig das Entstehen nicht anderweitig zu verwendenden Abfalls möglichst zu vermeiden. Ein recyclinggerechtes Konstruieren ist für das Erreichen dieser Ziele eine wichtige Voraussetzung. Ziel muss eine Kreislaufwirtschaft sein, bei der idealerweise nur die Ressourcen genutzt werden, die sich bereits vorher im Stoffkreislauf befanden. Um dies praktisch erreichen zu können, sind allerdings viele durchgreifende Veränderungen notwendig, die jetzt den entwerfenden und konstruierenden Ingenieur erreicht haben.

Reduction of weight and embodied energy in Highrise construction

The built environment (architectural engineering, civil engineering, infrastructure) stands for approx. 35% of the energy consumption, 35% of the emissions, 50% of the consumption of resources, and – that is to say in Central Europe – for more than 50% of the mass waste volume. In medium to long‐term considerations about a sustainable preservation of the environment and for the benefit of the coming generations this view can no longer be hold. In the light of dwindling resources and of the steadily increasing pollution of the environment by pollutants and by waste to be landfilled the target must consist in a radical re‐orientation – both with regard to the question, how we are building and with regard to the question, how we are using our built environment. We must succeed in drastically reducing the permanent withdrawal of natural resources from the nature (in the long term down to zero) and simultaneously in avoiding the development of non‐reusable waste. At the same time it will be necessary to produce the entire energy required for the built environment on the regenerative way. A recyclable design is an indispensable precondition for reaching these goals. The aim must be a circular economy with ideal use of resources which were already before integrated in the material cycle. Indeed this can in fact be reached with radical changes only.
Using the cre–lox system to randomize target gene expression states and generate diverse phenotypes
Authors: Niesner Bradley , Maheshri Narendra
Published: June 2013

Modifying the expression of multiple genes enables both deeper understanding of their function and the engineering of complex multigenic cellular phenotypes. However, deletion or overexpression of multiple genes is typically laborious and involves multiple sequential genetic modifications. Here we describe a strategy to randomize the expression state of multiple genes in Saccharomyces cerevisiae using Cre–loxP recombination. By inserting promoters flanked by inverted loxP sites in front of a gene of interest we can randomly alter its expression by turning it OFF or ON, or between four distinct expression states. We show at least 6 genes can be randomized independently and argue that using orthogonal loxP sites should increase this number to at least 15. Finally, we show how combining this strategy with mating allows easy introduction of native regulation as an additional expression state and use this to probe the role of four different enzymes involved in base excision repair in tolerance to methyl methane sulfonate (MMS), a genotoxic DNA alkylating agent. The set of vectors developed here can be used to randomize the expression of both heterologous genes and endogenous genes, and could immediately prove useful for metabolic engineering in yeast. Because Cre–loxP recombination works in many organisms, this strategy should be readily extendable. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2013;110: 2677–2686. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Sonication‐Assisted Low‐Temperature Routes for the Synthesis of Supported Fe–TiO2 Econanomaterials: Partial Photooxidation of Glucose and Phenol Aqueous Degradation
Authors: Colmenares Juan C. , Magdziarz Agnieszka , Chernyayeva Olga , Lisovytskiy Dmytro , Kurzydłowski Krzysztof , Grzonka Justyna
Published: June 2013

Fe‐doped TiO2‐supported photocatalytic materials prepared by the use of a mild ultrasound‐assisted protocol have been found to possess excellent selectivities in glucose oxidation and total phenol mineralization. These materials were characterized by a number of techniques such as XRD, diffuse reflectance UV/Vis spectroscopy, N2 physisorption, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, SEM with X‐ray microanalysis, HRTEM, and flame atomic absorption spectroscopy. The proposed synthesis method was found to have a significant effect on textural properties, morphology, and visible‐light responsiveness of nanophotocatalysts. The dopant agent was found to be in the form of Fe3+ ions. The effects of the textural properties, together with the Fe presence and the adsorption ability of the material (acidic properties), seem to be involved in the optimum photocatalytic activities found for Fe–TiO2 supported on zeolite. In phenol photodegradation, although Fe doping demonstrated the detrimental effect on the conversion rate, an improvement in the direct mineralization of phenol to CO2 and water, particularly for the SiO2‐supported photocatalyst, with a negligible content of toxic byproducts in water has been observed in comparison with commercially available Evonik P25.
Clean Synthesis of Amides over Bifunctional Catalysts of Rhodium‐Loaded Titanosilicates
Authors: Xu Le , Li Ningning , Peng Hong‐gen , Wu Peng
Published: June 2013

Rhodium‐loaded titanosilicates were prepared and employed as efficient bifunctional catalysts in the one‐pot synthesis of benzamide from benzaldehyde, hydrogen peroxide, and ammonia, which took place through a tandem reaction including ammoximation of benzaldehyde to benzaldehydeoxime and a sequential dehydration–rehydration reaction to benzamide. Various parameters that influenced the activity and product selectivity were investigated, such as crystalline topologies of the titanosilicate supports, types of transition metals, rhodium content, reaction temperature, time, solvent, and NH3/benzaldehyde molar ratio. Ti‐MWW was proved to be a suitable support for loading the Rh(OH)x species. Rh(OH)x/Ti‐MWWgave 84.9 % of benzaldehyde conversion and 86.9 % of benzamide selectivity, and it was also catalytically active for the transformation of a variety of aldehydes to the corresponding amides. The reusability of the bifunctional catalyst was also investigated. The in situ FTIR technique confirmed that the one‐pot reaction included Ti‐catalyzed ammoximation of benzaldehyde to the benzaldehyde oxime intermediate and sequential rhodium hydroxide related dehydration–rehydration reaction of oximes to amides.