bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predictive value of maternal second-generation thyroid-binding inhibitory immunoglobulin assay for neonatal autoimmune hyperthyroidism
Authors: Abeillon-du Payrat Juliette , Chikh Karim , Bossard Nadine , Bretones Patricia , Gaucherand Pascal , Claris Olivier , Charrié Anne , Raverot Véronique , Orgiazzi Jacques , Borson-Chazot Françoise , Bournaud Claire
Published: September 2014

Context

Hyperthyroidism occurs in 1% of neonates born to mothers with active or past Graves' disease (GD). Current guidelines for the management of GD during pregnancy were based on studies conducted with first-generation thyroid-binding inhibitory immunoglobulin (TBII) assays.

Objective

This retrospective study was conducted in order to specify the second-generation TBII threshold predictive of fetal and neonatal hyperthyroidism, and to identify other factors that may be helpful in predicting neonatal hyperthyroidism.

Methods

We included 47 neonates born in the Lyon area to 42 mothers harboring measurable levels of TBII during pregnancy. TBII measurements were carried out in all mothers; bioassays were carried out in 20 cases.

Results

Nine neonates were born with hyperthyroidism, including five with severe hyperthyroidism requiring treatment. Three neonates were born with hypothyroidism. All hyperthyroid neonates were born to mothers with TBII levels >5 IU/l in the second trimester (sensitivity, 100% and specificity, 43%). No mother with TSH receptor-stimulating antibodies (TSAb measured by bioassay) below 400% gave birth to a hyperthyroid neonate. Among mothers of hyperthyroid neonates, who required antithyroid drugs during pregnancy, none could stop treatment before delivery. Analysis of TBII evolution showed six unexpected cases of increasing TBII values during pregnancy.

Conclusion

Maternal TBII value over 5 IU/l indicates a risk of neonatal hyperthyroidism. Among these mothers, a TSAb measurement contributes to identify more specifically those who require a close fetal thyroid ultrasound follow-up. These results should be confirmed in a larger series.
A novel Amh-Treck transgenic mouse line allows toxin-dependent loss of supporting cells in gonads
Authors: Shinomura Mai , Kishi Kasane , Tomita Ayako , Kawasumi Miyuri , Kanezashi Hiromi , Kuroda Yoshiko , Tsunekawa Naoki , Ozawa Aisa , Aiyama Yoshimi , Yoneda Asuka , Suzuki Hitomi , Saito Michiko , Picard Jean-Yves , Kohno Kenji , Kurohmaru Masamichi , Kanai-Azuma Masami , Kanai Yoshiakira
Published: September 2014

Cell ablation technology is useful for studying specific cell lineages in a developing organ in vivo. Herein, we established a novel anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH)-toxin receptor-mediated cell knockout (Treck) mouse line, in which the diphtheria toxin (DT) receptor was specifically activated in Sertoli and granulosa cells in postnatal testes and ovaries respectively. In the postnatal testes of Amh-Treck transgenic (Tg) male mice, DT injection induced a specific loss of the Sertoli cells in a dose-dependent manner, as well as the specific degeneration of granulosa cells in the primary and secondary follicles caused by DT injection in Tg females. In the testes with depletion of Sertoli cell, germ cells appeared to survive for only several days after DT treatment and rapidly underwent cell degeneration, which led to the accumulation of a large amount of cell debris within the seminiferous tubules by day 10 after DT treatment. Transplantation of exogenous healthy Sertoli cells following DT treatment rescued the germ cell loss in the transplantation sites of the seminiferous epithelia, leading to a partial recovery of the spermatogenesis. These results provide not only in vivo evidence of the crucial role of Sertoli cells in the maintenance of germ cells, but also show that the Amh-Treck Tg line is a useful in vivo model of the function of the supporting cell lineage in developing mammalian gonads.
Population Genetics Inference for Longitudinally-Sampled Mutants Under Strong Selection
Authors: Lacerda Miguel , Seoighe Cathal
Published: September 2014

Longitudinal allele frequency data are becoming increasingly prevalent. Such samples permit statistical inference of the population genetics parameters that influence the fate of mutant variants. To infer these parameters by maximum likelihood, the mutant frequency is often assumed to evolve according to the Wright–Fisher model. For computational reasons, this discrete model is commonly approximated by a diffusion process that requires the assumption that the forces of natural selection and mutation are weak. This assumption is not always appropriate. For example, mutations that impart drug resistance in pathogens may evolve under strong selective pressure. Here, we present an alternative approximation to the mutant-frequency distribution that does not make any assumptions about the magnitude of selection or mutation and is much more computationally efficient than the standard diffusion approximation. Simulation studies are used to compare the performance of our method to that of the Wright–Fisher and Gaussian diffusion approximations. For large populations, our method is found to provide a much better approximation to the mutant-frequency distribution when selection is strong, while all three methods perform comparably when selection is weak. Importantly, maximum-likelihood estimates of the selection coefficient are severely attenuated when selection is strong under the two diffusion models, but not when our method is used. This is further demonstrated with an application to mutant-frequency data from an experimental study of bacteriophage evolution. We therefore recommend our method for estimating the selection coefficient when the effective population size is too large to utilize the discrete Wright–Fisher model.
Stress-Induced Mutation Rates Show a Sigmoidal and Saturable Increase Due to the RpoS Sigma Factor in Escherichia coli
Authors: Maharjan Ram , Ferenci Thomas
Published: September 2014

Stress-induced mutagenesis was investigated in the absence of selection for growth fitness by using synthetic biology to control perceived environmental stress in Escherichia coli. We find that controlled intracellular RpoS dosage is central to a sigmoidal, saturable three- to fourfold increase in mutation rates and associated changes in DNA repair proteins.
Solicited versus Unsolicited Metacognitive Prompts for Fostering Mathematical Problem Solving Using Multimedia
Authors: Kramarski Bracha , Friedman Sheli
Published: September 2014

The study examined how student control over metacognitive prompts in a multimedia environment affects students' ability to solve mathematical problems in immediate comprehension tasks using a multimedia program and a delayed-transfer test. It also examined the effect on metacognitive discourse, mental effort, and engagement with multimedia-based tasks. Participants were 90 8th-grade students, randomly assigned to three groups working in pairs: (a) “solicited prompts” group, with free access to multimedia-based metacognitive prompts; (b) “unsolicited prompts” group, consistently and regularly exposed to on-screen metacognitive prompts; and (c) a control group with no multimedia metacognitive prompts. Mixed method analysis showed that of the three groups the unsolicited prompts group had the highest effects in the immediate comprehension tasks ( d = 1.23; 1.92 respectively for the solicited prompts group and the control group) and the delayed-transfer problem solving test ( d = 0.55; 0.93, respectively). The level of this group's metacognitive discourse was higher, particularly in the planning phase. Group members displayed less cognitive load on the complex tasks and were more engaged in the multimedia activities. In contrast, the solicited prompts group felt they were under a heavier cognitive load than the other two groups. Finding implications and future directions for study are discussed.
Toward a Framework for Evaluating Online Instruction in Higher Education
Authors: Warford Mark K.
Published: September 2014

SUNY-wide, the online horse has left the gate. Meanwhile, campuses contend with traditional means for evaluating teaching effectiveness that do not match up against the latest standards for online instruction. Following a discussion of some of the core considerations that individual campuses need to address in responding to Open SUNY, the author proposes a model and rubrics aligned to the latest standards that center learner engagement, instructional materials, and technology on specific learning outcomes.
Going to College Online? A Pest Analysis of MOOCs
Authors: Lin Hong
Published: September 2014

Massively open? College unbound? What are the roots of Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs), and how much of a trend is it? What promises and anxieties do MOOCs bring to higher education, academic leaders, and faculty? 2013 has witnessed one of the most rapid and enthusiastic adoptions of educational innovation in history, generating numerous discussions on an endless list of questions and issues related to MOOCs and open educational resources. To better understand these questions, this article uses a PEST framework to scan the macro environment through Political, Economic, Social, and Technological lenses. Implications for higher education, faculty, professionals, and students are discussed.
Questioning as Facilitating Strategies in Online Discussion
Authors: Wang Yu-Mei
Published: September 2014

Facilitation of online discussions presents a challenge to online learning instructors. Unlike in face-to-face courses, students in online learning do not have physical contacts with instructors. They might view instructors as authoritarian figures and perceive instructor's comments as impersonal. This article details the author's personal experience in applying questioning as facilitation strategies in online discussions: identifying situations that call for facilitation, classifying question types, and choosing question types by situations. The author of the article reflects upon her experience and shares insights that might be helpful to online learning instructors who are interested in utilizing questioning as facilitating strategies in online discussions.
Examining the Storytelling Method of Dream Interpretation with Canadian Soldiers
Authors: Dale Allyson L. , DeCicco Teresa L.
Published: September 2014

The current study extended previous research on the content of the dreams of Canadian soldiers to the discovery obtained from the dreams. Participants included 25 Canadian male soldiers with operational experience in Afghanistan as well as an age and gender matched control group of 25 Canadian male civilians. Each participant filled out The Storytelling Method worksheet, and discovery passages were coded following Hall and Van de Castle content analysis guidelines. Many significant relationships were found among discovery categories for soldiers. Categories of discovery from the dream were significantly different between soldiers and civilians and support the continuity hypothesis, as was found in previous research with dream imagery. As expected, soldiers had discovery relating to specific events from tours overseas as well as much more discovery about the past when compared to civilians. Years of service in the military was also correlated with relevant discovery categories for soldiers. Limitations as well as future directions for dream interpretation techniques with soldiers are discussed.
The Trouble with Networks: Implications for the Practice of Help Documentation
Authors: Swarts Jason
Published: September 2014

This article considers why users of popular software packages choose to find answers to their task problems on user forums rather than in official documentation. The author concludes that traditional documentation is developed around an antiquated notion of “task,” which leads to restrictive ways of thinking about problems that users encounter and the solutions that might be appropriate. The author argues, instead, that tasks and problems arise from networked rhetorical situations and networked contexts for rhetorical action. The influence of networks requires a redefinition of rhetorical situation and context, from which we derive a networked picture of tasks and problems as emergent and uncertain phenomenon, best addressed in the uncertain and sometimes-chaotic setting of user forums. Forum threads are studied using discourse analytic techniques to determine what they can reveal about qualities making tasks and problems uncertain.
The influence of heat stress on metabolic status of cows
Authors: Horvat Jozef , Samanc Horea , Kirovski Danijela , Vujanac Ivan
Published: September 2014

It is considered that high air temperature and humidity during the summer are
the main factors which adversely affect both the health and
production-reproductive performance of high yielding dairy cows. The
resulting heath stress leads to a series of changes in endocrine regulation
of homeostasis. The changes in hormonal status reflect in some way to the
indicators of metabolic status of the cows. The objective of this work was
to investigate the influence of heat stress on metabolic status of cows. The
experiment was carried out on 20 cows of Holstein-Friesian breed during the
summer, in the period from 18th to 45th day of lactation. During the
performance of the experiment, the value of heat index (THI) was determined
hourly and then the value of average morning (from 10 pm the previous day to
9 am the current day), afternoon (from 10 am to 9 pm the current day) and
all-day THI was calculated. Blood sampling was carried out on the 1st, 2nd,
8th, 11th, 14th, 18th, 25th, 29th and 37th day of the experiment, in the
morning and the afternoon. On the basis of hourly THI values, whole
experimental period was divided into three periods: period A during which
the cows were exposed to a extreme high heat stress (THI?78) at least 7
hours in 24 hours; period B during which the cows were exposed to a moderate
heat stress (72?THI?78) at least 7 hours in 24 hours; period C during which
the cows were not exposed to a heat stress (THI?72) in 24 hours. The average
daily THI in period A (73,25?0,89) was significantly higher (p<0,01,
individually) in regard to period B (71,45?0,96) and period C (65,41?2,09).
THI was significantly higher in the period B than in the period C (p<0,01).
Significantly lower blood glucose value (p<0,05) during the afternoon period
in the cows exposed to the extreme heat stress (3,02?0,31 mmol/L) in regard
to the morning period (3,14?0,41 mmol/L) points to the fact that in such
conditions, metabolism redirects to use of glucose as an energy source
because in that way less thermal energy is produced than during
decomposition of fatty acids. Concentration of most important metabolic
profile parameters in blood (cholesterol, triglycerides, total proteins,
albumin, urea, total bilirubin, calcium, inorganic phosphorus as well as AST
and ALT activity) did not vary significantly under the influence of heat
stress. The exception was ionic calcium concentration which, under the
conditions of extreme heat stress, was on the lower limit of physiological
values (1.17?0.16 mmol/L).
The biological significance of differences in cows and sows colostrum and milk composition
Authors: Kirovski Danijela , Vujanac Ivan , Prodanovic Radisa , Djuric Miloje , Sladojevic Zeljko , Savic Djordje
Published: September 2014

The objective of this work was to compare the composition of colostrum and
milk of cows and sows (content of dry matter, protein, milk fat and lactose,
concentration of IGF-I and insulin) in samples taken on the first, second,
third and seventh day after parturition, and then based on the differences in
composition to determine a biological significance of nutrition of newborn
during the earliest stages of their life. The investigation inluded 14 cows
of Holstein breed and 14 sows of Landrace breed. The content of dry matter
and the concentration of proteins in both colostrum and milk samples were
statistically significantly higher in regard to sows mammary glands
secretion, taken on the first day after the parturition (p<0,01 and p<0,001,
individually), but their decrease in mammary glands secretion was more
pronounced in the cows than the sows, during the first seven days. The
concentration IGF-I was statistically significantly higher in the cows
colostrum and milk in regard to the sows during the whole investigation
period, while the concentration of insulin was significantly higher in the
sows in regard to the cows during the same period. The concentrations of milk
fat and lactose in cows milk samples were significantly lower in regard to
the sows in all period of the study. On the basis of the obtained results, it
can be concluded that there are significant differences in the composition of
milk and colostrum of both the investigated animal species. The differences
are probably the result of evolutionary adaptation of mammal gland function
to nutrition, energy and protection requirements of these young animals in
their early postnatal life.
Phenotype variability and relations between basic parameters of morphological development in young Balkan donkeys
Authors: Djermanovic Vladan , Mitrovic Sreten , Trailovic Ruzica , Trailovic Dragisa , Ivanov Sergej
Published: September 2014

Balkan donkey is native breed of donkeys evolutively adapted to modest
breeding conditions and different climatic systems including harsh and
severe climate of Serbian mountains. Unfortunately, the purposes for
breeding small donkeys have been lost during the 20th century so the
population is regressing. There has been no selective breeding of the
autochthonous donkeys in Serbia therefore the data on breed characteristics
are recent and few. The monitoring of morphological characteristics of
autochthonous Balkan donkey population in Serbia have been performed in aim
to characterize the population and to define the importance of autochthonous
donkeys as national genetic resource . The morphometric parameters evaluated
i.e. height at withers (HWi) body length (BLe), thorax girth (TGi), cannon
perimeter (CPe) and body weight (BW) in young Balkan donkeys bred in
traditional conditions were used for establishment of the following body
indexes: Index of Body Frame (IBF), Index of Body Compactness (BCI), Index
of Conformation (CoI) and Dactyl-costal Index (DCI) reflecting body
development and conformational relations in Balkan donkey population in
Serbia.
Paleopathological analysis of changes on animal bones originating from archaeological sites Caricin Grad and Studenica Monastery
Authors: Markovic Nemanja , Stevanovic Oliver , Marinkovic Darko
Published: September 2014

This work presents the estimation of incidence and analysis of
paleopathological changes on skeletal remains of the animals from
archaeological sites Caricin Grad and Studenica Monastery. Moreover, there
has been carried out the assessment of the skeletal elements, as well as
taxonomic and age determination. The total of 2595 bones or bone fragments
were examined. In 22 specimens there were noticed various abnormal skeletal
changes in following animal species: cattle, sheep, goats, pigs, horses,
donkeys and camels. Pathological changes were noticed on the teeth,
mandibles, joints of long bones and phalanxes. By macroscopic analysis of
these acquired pathological changes on bones of the animals, there was
determined that the observed lesions had had proliferative, hypertrophic and
chronic character. Proliferative changes on the bones of the cattle, horses,
donkeys and camels point out to the fact that these animals were used for
towing and/or load carrying. Identified diseases of oral cavity in small
ruminants point out to improper and inadequate nutrition of these animals in
the past.
Parasitic infections of wild rabbits and hares
Authors: Ilic Tamara , Petrovic Tamas , Dimitrijevic Sanda
Published: September 2014

The paper presents the most important parasitic infections of wild rabbits
and hares, which harmful effect in this animal population is manifested as a
gradual weakening of the immune system, reduction in fertility, weight loss
and constant exhaustion. Order of Lagomorpha (hares or lagomorphs) belongs to
superorder of higher mammals which includes the family of rabbits (Leporidae)
which are represented in Europe as well as the family of whistleblowers
(Ochotonidae) which live only in North America and Northern regions of Asia.
The most important representatives of Leporidae family are European hare
(Lepus europeus) and wild rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus). The most important
endoparasitosis of hares and wild rabbits are: coccidiosis,
encephalitozoonosis (nosemosis), toxoplasmosis, sarcocystosis, giardiasis,
cryptosporidiosis, protostrongylosis, trichostrngylodosis, passalurosis,
anoplocephalidosis, cysticercosis and fasciolosis. The most frequent
ectoparasites of rabbits and wild hares are fleas, lice and ticks. Reduction
in hare population, which is noticed in whole Europe including Serbia, is
caused by changed living conditions, quantitatively and qualitatively
insufficient nutrition, increased use of herbicides as well as various
infectious diseases and the diseases of parasitic etiology. Since wild
rabbits and hares pose a threat to health of domestic rabbits and people,
knowledge of parasitic fauna of these wild animals is of extreme
epizootiological and epidemiological importance.
Animal poisoning - veterinary-medical and criminal-legal aspects
Authors: Aleksic Jelena , Batricevic Ana , Jovasevic Dragan , Aleksic Zoran
Published: September 2014

Apart from approved or planned poisoning with agricultural purpose, an
increase in the number of cases of intentional animal poisoning (primarily
referring to cats and dogs) has been detected in Serbia, and it is suspected
that their number is significantly larger than the one shown by the official
statistics data. Under the conditions prescribed by the Criminal Code of the
Republic of Serbia, such activities may represent the crime of killing and
torture of animals, but also the crime of causing a general danger. It would
be impossible to conduct the procedure of discovering and proving these
criminal offences and the responsibility of their perpetrators without
findings and opinion of forensic veterinary-medicine experts. They play an
important role when it comes to site inspection, crime scene processing,
collecting the samples from the crime scene, processing of samples and
autopsy and exhumation of a potentially poisoned animal body. Just like other
evidence in criminal procedure, findings and opinion of experts of veterinary
medicine are estimated in accordance with the principle of free assessment of
evidence. However, due to the specificity of such cases of killing and
torture of animals, their impact on court?s decision on the existence of
criminal offence and perpetrator?s liability is crucial. In this paper, the
authors discuss the scope of animal poisoning in Serbia, particularly in
Belgrade, analyze possible criminal - legal consequences of these illegal
activities and point out to a significant role that experts of veterinary
medical profession have in discovering and proving such cases and the
liability of their perpetrators.
Tuberous Sclerosis Complex 1–Mechanistic Target of Rapamycin Complex 1 Signaling Determines Brown-to-White Adipocyte Phenotypic Switch
Authors: Xiang Xinxin , Lan He , Tang Hong , Yuan Fang , Xu Yanhui , Zhao Jing , Li Yin , Zhang Weizhen
Published: September 2014

Interconversion of white and brown adipocytes occurs between anabolic and catabolic states. The molecular mechanism regulating this phenotypic switch remains largely unknown. This study explores the role of tuberous sclerosis complex 1 (TSC1)–mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling in the conversion of brown to white adipose tissue (WAT). A colony of Fabp4-Tsc1−/− mice, in which the Tsc1 gene was specifically deleted by the fatty acid binding protein 4 (FABP4)-Cre, was established. Western blotting and immunostaining demonstrated the absence of TSC1 and activation of ribosomal protein S6 kinase 1, the downstream target of mTOR complex 1 (mTORC1) signaling, in the brown adipose tissues (BATs) of Fabp4-Tsc1−/− mice. Accumulation of lipid droplets in BAT was significantly increased. Levels of brown adipocyte markers were markedly downregulated, while white adipocyte markers were upregulated. Rapamycin reversed the conversion from BAT to WAT in Fabp4-Tsc1−/− mice. Deletion of the Tsc1 gene in cultured brown preadipocytes significantly increased the conversion to white adipocytes. FoxC2 mRNA, the transcriptional factor for brown adipocyte determination, was significantly decreased, while mRNAs for retinoblastoma protein, p107 and RIP140, the transcriptional factors for white adipocyte determination, increased in the BAT of Fabp4-Tsc1−/− mice. Our study demonstrates that TSC1-mTORC1 signaling contributes to the brown-to-white adipocyte phenotypic switch.
Glycated Hemoglobin and All-Cause and Cause-Specific Mortality in Singaporean Chinese Without Diagnosed Diabetes: The Singapore Chinese Health Study
Authors: Bancks Michael P. , Odegaard Andrew O. , Pankow James S. , Koh Woon-Puay , Yuan Jian-Min , Gross Myron D. , Pereira Mark A.
Published: September 2014

OBJECTIVE

Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) is a robust biomarker of the preceding 2 to 3 months average blood glucose level. The aim of this study was to examine the association between HbA1c and mortality in a cohort of Southeast Asians.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Analysis of 7,388 men and women, mean age 62 years, from the Singapore Chinese Health Study who provided a blood sample at the follow-up I visit (1999–2004) and reported no history of diabetes, previous adverse cardiovascular events, or cancer. A total of 888 deaths were identified through 31 December 2011 via registry linkage. Participants represented a random study sample of potential control subjects for a nested case-control genome-wide association study of type 2 diabetes in the population. Hazard ratios (HRs) for all-cause and cause-specific mortality by six categories of HbA1c were estimated with Cox regression models.

RESULTS

Relative to participants with an HbA1c of 5.4–5.6% (36–38 mmol/mol), participants with HbA1c ≥6.5% (≥48 mmol/mol) had an increased risk of all-cause, cardiovascular, and cancer mortality during an average of 10.1 years of follow-up; HRs (95% CIs) were 1.96 (1.56–2.46), 2.63 (1.77–3.90), and 1.51 (1.04–2.18), respectively. No level of HbA1c was associated with increased risk of respiratory mortality. Levels <6.5% HbA1c were not associated with mortality during follow-up. The results did not materially change after excluding observation of first 3 years post–blood draw.

CONCLUSIONS

HbA1c levels consistent with undiagnosed type 2 diabetes (≥6.5%) are associated with an increased risk of all-cause and cause-specific mortality in Chinese men and women.
Greater Dose-Ranging Effects on A1C Levels Than on Glucosuria With LX4211, a Dual Inhibitor of SGLT1 and SGLT2, in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes on Metformin Monotherapy
Authors: Rosenstock Julio , Cefalu William T. , Lapuerta Pablo , Zambrowicz Brian , Ogbaa Ike , Banks Phillip , Sands Arthur
Published: September 2014

OBJECTIVE

To assess the dose-ranging efficacy and safety of LX4211, a dual inhibitor of sodium–glucose cotransporter (SGLT) 1 and SGLT2, in type 2 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Type 2 diabetic patients inadequately controlled on metformin were randomly assigned to 75 mg once daily, 200 mg once daily, 200 mg twice daily, or 400 mg once daily of LX4211 or placebo. Primary end point was A1C change from baseline to week 12. Secondary end points included changes in blood pressure (BP) and body weight.

RESULTS

Baseline characteristics in 299 patients randomly assigned to LX4211 or placebo in this 12-week dose-ranging study were similar: mean age 55.9 years, A1C 8.1% (65 mmol/mol), BMI 33.1 kg/m2, and BP 124/79 mmHg. LX4211 significantly reduced A1C to week 12 in a dose-dependent manner by 0.42% (4.6 mmol/mol), 0.52% (5.7 mmol/mol), 0.80% (8.7 mmol/mol), and 0.92% (10.0 mmol/mol), respectively (P < 0.001 each), compared with 0.09% (1.0 mmol/mol) for placebo. Greater A1C reductions were produced by 400 mg once a day than 200 mg once a day LX4211 without higher urinary glucose excretion, suggesting a contribution of SGLT1 inhibition. Significant reductions were seen in body weight (−1.85 kg; P < 0.001) and systolic BP (−5.7 mmHg; P < 0.001), but diastolic BP was unchanged (−1.6; P = 0.164). Adverse events with LX4211 were mild to moderate and similar to placebo, including urinary tract infections and gastrointestinal-related events; genital infections were limited to LX4211 groups (0–5.0%). No hypoglycemia occurred.

CONCLUSIONS

Dual inhibition of SGLT1/SGLT2 with LX4211 produced significant dose-ranging improvements in glucose control without dose-increasing glucosuria and was associated with reductions in weight and systolic BP in metformin-treated patients with type 2 diabetes.
Lysine as corrosion inhibitor for low alloy carbon steel in acidic media
Authors: Jano Albana , Lame Alketa , Kokalari Efrosini
Published: September 2014

The use of inhibitors is one of the most practical means for protecting metals against corrosion, especially in acidic media. The interest is to use organic compounds as inhibitors due mainly to their inherent and non-toxic nature. Amino acids are attractive as corrosion inhibitors because they are nontoxic, relatively easy to produce with high purity at low cost, and are soluble in aqueous media. Lysine, one kind of amino acid is used as inhibitor. The aims of this study are to show corrosion protection efficiency of lysine and to explain the mechanism of corrosion. The experimental results demonstrated that the lysine offered protection for low alloy carbon steel in aggressive environments like H2SO4. Materials under investigation are two types of low alloy carbon steel marked as: Steel 39, Steel 44 (usually applied to concrete as reinforcing bars). The corrosion media consists in sulfuric acid in presence of chloride ions, in form of NaCl (H2SO4 1M + Cl- 10-3M). Potentiodynamic polarization methods are used for inhibitor efficiency testing. Potentiodymanic polarization measurements showed that the presence of lysine in acidic solution decreases the corrosion current to a good extent. The corrosion inhibition efficiency improves with the increase of the lysine concentration. The use of this inhibitor (1g/L) protects steel 39 in acidic media with 78.88% efficiency. That means lysine is a good corrosion inhibitor for these aggressive conditions.
Fat soluble vitamins and fatty acid composition of wild Black sea mussel, rapana and shrimp
Authors: Merdzhanova Albena , Dobreva Diana A. , Stancheva Mona , Makedonski Lubomir
Published: September 2014

Many studies suggest that marine molluscs are one of the most important dietary sources of fat soluble vitamins (E, D3 and A) and essential fatty acids (FA). The most commercially important species from the Bulgarian Black Sea are the Black mussel, rapana and shrimp. There is scarce information in the scientific literature about fat soluble vitamins and FA composition of these Black Sea molluscs. The aims of the present study are to determine and compare fat soluble vitamins content as well as relative daily intake, FA composition and atherogenic index (IA), thrombogenicity index (IT) and flesh-lipid quality index (FLQ) in wild Black Sea mussel (Mytilus galloprovincialis), rapana (Rapana venosa) and shrimp (Crangon crangon). Fat soluble vitamins were analysed simultaneously using RP-HPLC system. The FA profile was analysed by GC-MS. All of the analysed samples presented significant amounts of vitamin E, followed by vitamin A and D3. Black Sea molluscs are excellent sources of fat soluble vitamins, especially for vitamin D3 - one survey provides more than 100% of the RDI established in Bulgaria. The FA composition of total lipids showed significant differences and the present study revealed that SFA content was significantly higher than MUFA (p<0.001) and PUFA (p<0.001) (SFA>PUFA>MUFA) in shrimp and mussel whereas rapana showed opposite trends (PUFA>SFA>MUFA). The omega6/omega3 and PUFA/SFA ratios of the analysed species were greater than the FAO/WHO recommendations.
Nanostructured materials for solar hydrogen production
Authors: Schoonman Joop , Perniu Dana
Published: September 2014

One of the main requirements for a future Hydrogen Economy is a clean and efficient process for producing hydrogen using renewable energy sources. Hydrogen is a promising energy carrier because of its high energy content and clean combustion. In particular, the production of hydrogen from water and solar energy, i.e., photocatalysis and photoelectrolysis, represent methods for both renewable and sustainable energy production. Here, we will present the principles of photocatalysis and the PhotoElectroChemical cell (PEC cell) for water splitting, along with functional materials. Defect chemical aspects will be high-lighted. To date, the decreasing length scale to the nanoscale of the functional materials attracts widespread attention. The nanostructure is beneficial in case diffusion lengths of the photo-generated charge carriers are substantially different.
The inhibition effects of methionine on mild steel in acidic media
Authors: Jano Albana , Lame Alketa , Kokalari Efrosini
Published: September 2014

The corrosion of metal surfaces causes huge financial damages to the industries annually, what has lead to an increase in the search for substances that can slow down or prevent corrosion rate. Green inhibitors which are biodegradable, without any heavy metals and other toxic compounds, are promoted. Amino acids are attractive as corrosion inhibitors because they are nontoxic. We have used methionine as corrosion inhibitor. Materials under investigation are two kind of low allow carbon steel marked as: Steel 39, Steel 44 usually applied to concrete as reinforcing bars, and manufacture in Elbasan. The inhibition effect of methionine on the corrosion behavior of low allow steel is investigated in sulfuric acid in presence of chloride ions, in form of NaCl (H2SO4 1M + Cl- 10-3M). Potentiodynamic polarization method is used for inhibitor efficiency testing. The pitting corrosion current shows that increasing concentration of the inhibitor causes a decrease in pitting current density, and inhibition efficiency increases with increasing concentration of the inhibitors.
Studies on Aspergillus Flavus Link. Isolated From Maize in Iran
Authors: Houshyar-Fard Mahmoud , Rouhani Hamid , Falahati-Rastegar Mahrokh , Mahdikhani-Moghaddam Esmat , Malekzadeh-Shafaroudi Saeed , Probst Claudia
Published: September 2014

The Aspergillus flavus population structure from maize kernels was examined. During 2011, samples were collected from two main grain maize production areas in Iran (Fars and Ardebil provinces), shortly before harvest. One-hundred nine A. flavus isolates were recovered on Dichloran Rose Bengal Chloramphenicole (DRBC) agar and Aspergillus flavus/parasiticus medium (AFPA) and grouped into morphotypes and Vegetative Compatibility Groups (VCGs) based on morphological (e.g. sclerotia production), physiological (e.g. aflatoxin-producing ability) and genetic criteria (e.g. heterokaryosis). In general, morphotype and VCG composition were highly dissimilar in both provinces. In total, 43.8% and 44.3% of A. flavus isolates from Ardebil and Fars, respectively, produced sclerotia. Sclerotia producers were identified as A. flavus L and S strain morphotypes in Ardebil (66.7% and 33.3%, respectively) and Fars (29.6% and 70.4%, respectively). Furthermore, 71 isolates (65.1%) were able to produce aflatoxin (Ardebil 40.8%, Fars 59.2%). The aflatoxin values were categorized into four different classes (< 10, 10-100, 100-1,000 and > 1,000 ppb). In total, 51 aflatoxin producing isolates of A. flavus (Ardebil n = 22, Fars n = 29) were assigned into 26 VCGs by complementation of nit auxotrophs on nitrate medium. None of the A. flavus isolates from Ardebil complemented with any isolates from Fars. Genetic diversity of A. flavus isolates was 59.1% and 41.8% for Ardebil and Fars, respectively. The different geographical adaptation and genetic make-up of A. flavus isolates may be due to different climatic conditions, soil types and crop sequences in both maize production areas.
Biodiversity of Segetal Weed Communities when Chlorsulfuron-Based Weed Control is Being Used on Continuous Winter Wheat
Authors: Pawlonka Zbigniew , Rymuza Katarzyna , Starczewski Krzysztof , Bombik Antoni
Published: September 2014

The purpose of the study was to determine the relationship between herbicide rate and weed community biodiversity in continuous wheat. A six-year field experiment was conducted to examine the effect of four chlorsulfuron rates in comparison with untreated (the control) plots, on the status and severity of weed infestation - in successive study years of cultivating winter wheat in monoculture. In addition, the following indices were calculated: Shannon-Wiener and Simpson’s index of biodiversity, and Simpson’s index of domination. A total of 36 weedy species were identified in the experimental plots. The richest segetal communities were established in the control plots. An application of herbicide reduced the biodiversity of the agrophytocensosis. A short-term monoculture did not impoverish the species richness of the weed community established in winter wheat. The average number of species in the community was significantly greater in the second study year. In the initial study years of monoculture, the biodiversity of the segetal community increased markedly compared with rotation-based cultivation. The calculated indices of biodiversity were not significantly affected by herbicide rate or monoculture but the indices confirmed the trends outlined by an analysis of the status and level of weed infestation.
Mathematical Identity for a Sustainable Future: An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis
Authors: Pipere Anita , Mičule Ilona
Published: September 2014

Individual in-depth, semi-structured interviews with three mathematics teachers were conducted to investigate the dynamics of their life-long relationships with mathematics, synthesised as mathematical identity from different identity positions in the context of dialogical self. The qualitative data were scrutinised employing interpretive phenomenological analysis that displayed mostly positive instrumental relationships with mathematics and explicit connections between the teachersí life experiences and their disctinct identity voices that surfaced in interviews. Similarly, teachers appeared to be experts in different professional spheres: pedagogy, subject or didactics. The teachersí accounts contain various models of relationships between the other-motive and the self-motive as reflected in their pedagogical approaches. Emergent patterns resulting from the interaction of the teachersí mathematical identity and their perception of studentsí mathematical philia/phobia included the humanistic approach with an instrumental interpretation of mathematics and its teaching methods, self-actualisation in achieving success in mathematics through hard work and the issue of attribution of failure in mathematics either to external or internal factors. Moreover, these dialogical models and interactive patterns show alignement with one of the core competences for educators in education for sustainable development, that is, achieving transformation in what it means to be an educator, in teaching and learning, as well as in the entire education system. Practical implementation of findings and limitations of the study are outlined along with venues for future research.
Re-examining the Importance of Indigenous Perspectives in the Western Environmental Education for Sustainability: “From Tribal to Mainstream Education”
Authors: Chandra Doreen Vikashni
Published: September 2014

This paper highlights the importance of integrating indigenous perspectives on environmental sustainability into mainstream education as a way of bridging the gap in the understanding of indigenous knowledge systems into Western science explanations of sustainable development (SD) in education, at the same time ensuring traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) continuity for future generations as well as taking a steady stand in the global debates on SD. The first part of the paper will attempt to explore the issue of SD through Western and indigenous perspectives and will emphasise on the model of strong sustainability (in theory). Secondly, the importance of TEK will be examined and justified through case studies on Aboriginal peoples of British Colombia and Roviana people of Solomon Islands in achieving goals of sustainability. Thirdly, challenges for TEK will be investigated and some possibilities of protecting the rapid disappearance of indigenous knowledge will be dealt with. Lastly, a pedagogical approach to sustainability will be provided that postulates the relevance of indigenous pedagogy to formal and informal education, attempting to integrate Tilburyís (1995) characteristics of environmental education for sustainability.
Phases and interruptions in postglacial development of humic lake margin (Lake Suchar Wielki, NE Poland)
Authors: Drzymulska Danuta , Zieliński Piotr
Published: September 2014

Our study concerns the development of marginal zone of Lake Suchar Wielki (Wigry National Park). This humic lake is characterised by mire occurrence in its marginal zone, covered with a floating mat spreading on water surface. Biogenic sediments (peat archive) present in lakeside allow recognising the thousands years’ development pattern of lake surrounded by mire. The wetland records were analysed for plant macroremains, degree of peat decomposition, sediment geochemical features along with age assessment. Morphological characteristics of the catchment were integrated with the wetland records. Our research showed that after the lake origin in the Allerod, accumulation in its marginal zone was interrupted, which was probably connected with high precipitation in the past. Slope processes could be possible. Stabilisation of environmental conditions took place in the younger Holocene. Despite these perturbations marginal zone of the lake was permanently terrestrial in character, as indicated by values of atomic C:N ratio.
Patients' Use of a Home-Based Virtual Reality System to Provide Rehabilitation of the Upper Limb Following Stroke
Authors: Standen Penny J. , Threapleton Kate , Connell Louise , Richardson Andy , Brown David J. , Battersby Steven , Sutton Catherine Jane , Platts Fran
Published: September 2014

Background

A low-cost virtual reality system that translates movements of the hand, fingers, and thumb into game play was designed to provide a flexible and motivating approach to increasing adherence to home-based rehabilitation.

Objective

Effectiveness depends on adherence, so did patients use the intervention to the recommended level? If not, what reasons did they give? The purpose of this study was to investigate these and related questions.

Design

A prospective cohort study, plus qualitative analysis of interviews, was conducted.

Methods

Seventeen patients recovering from stroke recruited to the intervention arm of a feasibility trial had the equipment left in their homes for 8 weeks and were advised to use it 3 times a day for periods of no more than 20 minutes. Frequency and duration of use were automatically recorded. At the end of the intervention, participants were interviewed to determine barriers to using it in the recommended way.

Results

Duration of use and how many days they used the equipment are presented for the 13 participants who successfully started the intervention. These figures were highly variable and could fall far short of our recommendations. There was a weak positive correlation between duration and baseline reported activities of daily living. Participants reported lack of familiarity with technology and competing commitments as barriers to use, although they appreciated the flexibility of the intervention and found it motivating.

Limitations

The small sample size limits the conclusions that can be drawn.

Conclusions

Level of use is variable and can fall far short of recommendations. Competing commitments were a barrier to use of the equipment, but participants reported that the intervention was flexible and motivating. It will not suit everyone, but some participants recorded high levels of use. Implications for practice are discussed.
Flexible Mixed Reality and Situated Simulation as Emerging Forms of Geovisualization
Authors: Lonergan Chris , Hedley Nick
Published: September 2014

This article reports on the applied research behind a geospatial mobile augmented reality system that can run in situ simulations of dynamic spatial phenomena. The authors summarize previous work that has led to a critical convergence of enabling technologies and identify new forms of geovisualization facilitated by these technologies. The article introduces situated simulation as a new form of augmented situated geovisual analysis, using two versions of a prototype system called A Touch of Rain. This system allows users to run augmented precipitation simulations in real space, in which virtual rain falls on and interacts with real landscapes and buildings, and thus to perform augmented geovisual analysis. This method opens up new opportunities to link geospatial data, models, and everyday spaces. The authors conclude by discussing implications and opportunities for GIScience.
Monitoring of the Environment at the Transplant Unit—Hemato-Oncology Clinic
Authors: Matoušková Ivanka , Holy Ondřej
Published: September 2014

Aims: Aim of this study was to monitor the environment at the Transplant Unit—Hemato-Oncology Clinic, University Hospital Olomouc (Olomouc, Czech Republic) and identify risks for the patients. Methods and Results: Microorganisms were cultivated under standard aerobic conditions. Strains were biochemically identified using the BD Phoenix™ PID Panel (USA). Legionella pneumophila was identified by DNA sequencing. From the air, the most frequently isolated strains were coagulase-negative staphylococci (94.3%), Micrococcus spp. and Bacillus spp. No Gram-negative strains were isolated from the air. From the surfaces, the most frequently isolated Gram-positive strains were coagulase-negative staphylococci (67.4%), Bacillus spp., enterococci (5.5%), Staphylococcus aureus (2.3%) and Micrococcus spp. (1.7%). From the surfaces, the most frequently isolated Gram-negative strains were from genera Pseudomonas (28%), Enterobacter (28%), E. coli (6%), and Klebsiella spp. (5%). From the personnel, the most frequently isolated Gram-positive strains were coagulase-negative staphylococci (59.6%), Bacillus spp. (24.1%) and Staphylococcus aureus (9.8%). From the personnel, the most frequently isolated Gram-negative strains were Enterobacter spp. (61%), Klebsiella oxytoca (18%), and E. coli (11%). Microscopic filamentous fungi were isolated in 13 cases (2.71%). Isolated strains were Aspergillus spp. (4), Trichoderma spp. (2), Penicillium spp. (2), one case of the strains Paecilomyces spp., Eurotium spp., Monilia spp. Conclusions: The study found no significant deviations in the microbial contamination of the cleanroom air. The personnel entrance of the Transplant Unit represent a high risk area, an extreme value (7270 CFU/m3) was recorded. Regime measures are fully effective, no other deficiencies were found. Significance and Impact of the Study: This epidemiological study, which was held for the duration of one year at the Transplant Unit—Hemato-Oncology Clinic, University Hospital Olomouc. The study monitored microbial contamination of the cleanroom air, surfaces, water, colonization of the personnel by bacterial strains of epidemiological consequence.