bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An alternative guideline for the teaching of English as a foreign language in secondary schools in Belo Horizonte
Authors: Souza Luiz Otávio Carvalho Gonçalves de
Published: July 2015

It is a well known fact that the teaching of English as a foreign language in secondary schools has not been effective. Among other things, current teaching sets out to develop the four linguistic skills. However, students reveal a poor command of the language in whatever skill considered, which breeds poor motivation and lack of interest. Therefore, the ultimate aim of this thesis is to provide suggestions for the improvement of EFLT in secondary schools in Belo Horizonte. So as to reach this aim, we first discuss some theoretical issues such as language concepts, the development of linguistic skills versus communicative abilities, cognitive principles and motivational factors as well as methodological trends. This theoretical discussion is relevant for the next two steps — first, the evaluation of the current teaching situation in Belo Horizonte, and secondly, the proposal of an alternative guideline. The unfolding of this thesis and the proposal further reveal that the communicative approach to language teaching together with Ausubel's theory of meaningful verbal learning can make the process more meaningful, useful, and transferable. As a result, students are likely to be more motivated and interested. A final claim is that the whole teaching/learning process could be better contextualized by having reading as a pivotal activity, which is made apparent in the illustrative study module that closes this thesis.
A micro-unit in translation pedagogy
Authors: Gohn Carlos Alberto
Published: July 2015

In this text there is a discussion about materials needed for teaching translation at university level. Our case study is the translation of the English Present Perfect. The semantics of verbal tenses both in English and Portuguese is dealt with so a6 to allow us to make some claims about how one should tackle the problem of translating the perfect tenses to express the rhetorical function of reporting past literature in academic language. Neste texto discutimos alguns materiais para o ensino de tradução a nível universitário. Exemplificamos com a tradução do «Present Perfect». A semântica dos tempos verbais em inglês e português é examinada de modo a nos permitir sugerir algumas formas de abordar o problema de traduzir os «perfect tenses» para expressar a função retórica de relatar o que já foi feito no passado, na área da literatura acadêmica em questão.
A Peircean reading of O'Neill's Emperor Jones (1920)
Authors: Clark Fred M.
Published: July 2015

The article aims at showing, through an analysis of the semiotic effects of the use of iconic, indexical and symbolic signs in the play, that O'Neill's work has to do primarily with the blurred boundaries between the actual and the imagined, the domain of a synthesis of the real and the illusory. O artigo demonstra, através da análise do efeito semiótico do uso de signos icônicos, indiciais e simbólicos na peça Emperor Jones, que esta obra de O'Neill lida principalmente com as confusas fronteiras entre o real e o imaginado, com o território da síntese entre a ilusão e a realidade.
Descentrando a crítica: a literatura das minorias
Authors: Reis Eliana Lourenço de Lima
Published: July 2015

Partindo do conceito de "literatura menor" de Deleuze e Guattari, este trabalho procura mostrar como a literatura e a crítica são encaradas por autores pertencentes ao Terceiro Mundo e a grupos minoritários dentro dos grandes centros. Ao comparar as opiniões do martiniquense Edouard Glissant e do crítico negro americano Henry Louis Gates Jr. com as idéias de autores brasileiros contemporâneos, podemos perceber como, embora originários de culturas diversas, estes autores se aproximam em seus pontos de vista, principalmente na defesa do direito à diferença. Writers and critics of the Third World and of minority groups in developed countries, despite representing different cultures, share similar points of view, especially the affirmation of the right to one's difference. In the light of Deleuze and Guattari’s concept of "minor literature", this paper endeavors to present the ideas of the Martiniquan writer Edouard and of the Negro critic Henry Louis Gates, Jr., as well as to compare them to the opinions of some contemporary Brazilian writers and critics.
Gesture and style in The moviegoer
Authors: Elliott Emory
Published: July 2015

A feminist, close reading of Walker Percy's The moviegoer. Leitura feminista e minuciosa do livro The moviegoer do escritor americano contemporâneo Walker Percy.
Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI) for Aortic Stenosis
Authors: Chung Robin
Published: July 2015

Aortic stenosis remains the commonest form of valve disease in
modern cardiology. With fifty years’ experience, surgical valve
replacement remains the gold standard treatment for survival
benefit, durability and symptomatic relief. Percutaneous
transcatheter aortic valve replacement has recently gained a
credible momentum for inoperable and very high risk patients
with severe aortic stenosis. Early and medium term results
have demonstrated a proven survival benefit over conservative
management, with documented complication rates for stroke,
vascular complications and pacemaker implantation. The
evidence base for cost effectiveness and long-term results are
eagerly anticipated.
Left ventricular geometric patterns in hypertensive Nigerians: a systematic review
Authors: Karaye Kamilu
Published: July 2015

Introduction: Several studies on left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) and LV geometric patterns in hypertensive subjects
have been carried out in Nigeria, but the results vary widely. The present article aims to systematically review published
studies carried out in Nigeria on the prevalence and pattern of LV geometry in hypertensive subjects as determined using
echocardiography.
Methods: Relevant English language papers published up to 15th November 2012 were searched for in Medline, African
Journals on Line, Google Scholar and several other websites, and enquiries were made from colleagues. Study quality was
assessed using a condensed version of the Downs and Black checklist. LVH was defined in most of the studies as LV mass
index (LVMI) >96g/m2 in women and >116g/m2 in men, or LVMI >125g/m2 for both sexes.
Results: A total of 148 records were initially obtained after excluding duplicates, but 138 articles had to be excluded (126 for
lack of relevance; 12 abstracts for lack of full length articles) while data in the remaining 10 were extracted, further analysed
and discussed. Out of a total of 1722 persons in all the included studies, 621 (36.1%) subjects had LVH, while 496 (28.8%)
had concentric remodelling and the remaining 605 (35.1%) subjects had normal geometry. Of those with LVH, 321 (51.7%) of
them had eccentric hypertrophy while the remaining 300 (48.3%) had concentric hypertrophy.
Conclusion: The findings in the present study have important clinical implications in the choice of antihypertensive treatments
to control the blood pressure, induce regression of LVH and reduce overall cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, as
recommended in standard guidelines.
Relationship between 24- hour Holter variables, chest discomfort and syncope: Does age matter?
Authors: Saha Samir
Published: July 2015

One hundred and forty four ambulatory, non-emergent human subjects from 20-88 years of age were investigated following
routine 24 hour Holter monitoring referred by primary and tertiary care centers primarily for evaluation of palpitations
and syncope. The patients were grouped into 3 different age categories: A) 20-59 years of age (16%), B) 60-69 years
of age (26.4%) and C) > 70 years of age (57.6%). Heart rate profile, RR intervals, symptoms, frequency of premature
supra ventricular and ventricular complexes were registered. The data show that though the occurrence and frequency
of premature atrial and ventricular contractions over a period of 24 hours did not differ between the groups, the younger
subjects documented more subjective discomforts during the Holter monitoring. Extra-systoles in excess of 1000 beats / 24
hour occured incessantly throughout the registration. Patients with syncope and those without did not differ as regards the
Holter variables. However, subjects with atrial fibrillation had acceptable rate control and had significantly lower incidence
of syncope than those with sinus rhythm. The findings suggest that in a county setting, Holter monitoring for evaluation of
syncope may not be the first hand mode of investigation in a non emergent setting. On the contrary, the modality appears
to be valuable for monitoring patients with atrial fibrillation. Even mild symptoms in the elderly population may warrant closer
clinical follow up to prevent cardiac events and/or syncope leading to serious physical injury.
Bayes Theorem and diagnostic tests with application to patients with suspected angina
Authors: Owen Andrew
Published: July 2015

Bayes Theorem and diagnostic tests with
application to patients with suspected angina
Using Multivariate Quantile Regression Analysis to Explore Cardiovascular Risk Differences in Subjects with Chronic Kidney Disease by Race and Ethnicity: Findings from the U.S. Chronic Renal Insufficiency Cohort Study
Authors: Liu Longjian
Published: July 2015

Background and Aims: Adults with chronic kidney disease (CKD) carry an extraordinarily high risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD).The present study aimed to test two hypotheses that: (1) CVD risk factors disproportionately affect non-Hispanic black (NHB) with CKD than non-Hispanic white (NHW). (2) This difference significantly contributes to an excess risk of CVD in NHB versus NHW.

 

Methods: A total of 3,939 aged 21-74 years old participating in the Chronic Renal Insufficiency Cohort Study was analyzed. A sum weighted CVDRisk score was constructed from well-established CVD risk factors. Differences in CVDRisk score by race/ethnicity were tested using quantile regression (Qreg) analysis.

 

Results: The prevalence of CVD was 30.7% in NHW and 38.2% in NHB (p<0.001). The means (SD) of CVDRisk score were 12.6 (5.7) in NHW and 14.6 (6.4) in NHB (p<0.001). Qreg analysis indicated that NHB with estimate glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) 30-59.9 ml/min/1.73m2 had significantly higher (worse) CVDRisk scores across all quantiles (Qs) than NHW. This race differences in CVDRisk were also significantly higher in NHB with eGFR 60-70 ml/min/1.73m2 in Qs 1 and 2 as compared to their NHW counterparts. An estimated 35.8% of the excess prevalent CVD could be attributable to the difference in CVDRisk for NHB versus NHW.

 

Conclusion: NHB have a significantly higher CVD risk factor score in those with moderate and mild CKD than NHW.
Estudo comparativo entre acessos e cultivares de manjericão no Estado do Tocantins
Authors: Veloso Ronice Alves , Castro Henrique Guilhon de , Cardoso Dione Pereira , Chagas Júnior Aloisio Freitas , Chagas Lillian França Borges
Published: July 2015

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o crescimento e a produção de biomassa de quatro acessos, provenientes de diferentes regiões geográficas, e duas cultivares comerciais de manjericão (Ocimum basilicum L.) cultivados sob as mesmas condições edafoclimáticas no Estado do Tocantins. Os acessos foram coletados no município de Gurupi-TO (GUR) e de Monte Alegre-GO (MAL, MVE e FPS). As sementes da cultivar comercial manjericão roxo (MR) foram adquiridas no comércio local de Gurupi-TO e as sementes da cultivar Maria Bonita (MB) foram fornecidas pelo Horto de Plantas Medicinais da Universidade Federal de Lavras. As avaliações foram realizadas em intervalos regulares de 15 dias, com avaliação da altura das plantas, diâmetro do caule, número de inflorescências e vigor das plantas. Na última época de avaliação, foram avaliadas as características de massa fresca total, massa fresca das folhas, massa fresca das inflorescências, massa fresca dos ramos, número de folhas, número de inflorescências, número de ramos, massa seca total das folhas, massa seca total das inflorescências, massa seca total dos ramos e massa seca total. Nas cultivares MB e MR foi obtida maior taxa de crescimento em altura e maior vigor em relação aos outros acessos. Nas cultivares MB e MR observaram os maiores valores de massa fresca total e massa seca total. Nos acessos silvestres (MAL, GUR, FPS e MVE) foi observado maior número de inflorescências e maior número de folhas.
Effects of Row Spacing and Population Density on Yield of Sweet Sorghum: Applications for Harvesting as Billets
Authors: Adams Curtis B. , Erickson John E. , Campbell David N. , Singh Maninder P. , Rebolledo Juan Pablo
Published: July 2015

As an emerging biofuel feedstock, sweet sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] could perhaps most readily be integrated into sugarcane production systems where existing harvesters can be utilized to process the crop. This will require row spacing compatible with the harvesters, but the literature on row spacing and planting density in sweet sorghum is scarce and gives conflicting results. In North Florida in the 2012 and 2013 growing seasons, we therefore examined the effects of row spacing configurations (61 and 76 cm single rows, 71 by 107 cm double rows (DR), and 35.5 by 35.5 by 107 cm triple rows) and initial plant population densities (74,100; 98,800; 123,500; and 148,200 plant ha−1) on fresh biomass yield, Brix, estimated sugar yield, and stem diameter. We found no advantage of multiple row configurations (double and triple rows) in 2012 on biomass yield, Brix, or estimated sugar yield, and a definitive disadvantage in 2013 compared to the single row treatments. The 61‐cm single row treatment, which is amenable to harvest with a sugarcane harvester, yielded as well or better in 2013, depending on population density, than commonly used 76‐cm single rows, which cannot be harvested with a sugarcane harvester. The data also highlighted the cultural tradeoff that exists between increasing initial plant population density and decreasing stem diameter. Considering this tradeoff, an intermediate initial plant population density, such as 123,500 plants ha−1, was found to best optimize yield and stem diameter to facilitate sweet sorghum harvest as billets.
Corn Response to Drainage and Fertilizer on a Poorly Drained, River Bottom Soil
Authors: Nash P. R. , Nelson K. A. , Motavalli P. P.
Published: July 2015

Poorly drained soils located in Missouri river bottoms have not traditionally been tile drained due to high clay content in the surface soil layers and low overall soil hydraulic conductivity. A combination of increased land and corn (Zea mays L.) grain prices along with increased variability and intensity of rainfall have stimulated interest in the region to utilize managed subsurface drainage (MD) to increase yields. The objective of the study was to determine the effect of subsurface tile drainage systems [no drainage (ND), free drainage (FD), and MD] and N fertilizer source (polymer‐coated urea [PCU] or non‐coated urea [NCU]) on corn yield in a poorly‐drained river bottom soil. Abnormally dry growing seasons in 2011 to 2013 likely limited N loss, plant N uptake, and the subsequent yield response to PCU and drainage. Applications of PCU did not impact corn yield regardless of the presence or absence of drainage. Increased corn yields with MD compared to FD were not observed over the 3‐yr study. Subsurface drainage (FD or MD) increased yields up to 13% compared to ND in 2012. Poorly‐drained river bottom soils in the Midwest typically have saturated soil conditions for an extended period of time after corn emergence regardless of whether high amounts of rainfall were received due to the low landscape position and temperature. The presence of drainage may have promoted deeper root development compared to ND and improved water use efficiency during the dry summer months which may explain the increased yield production with drainage in 2012.
Comparison of Two Selection Methods for Tolerance to Acidic, Aluminum‐rich Soil in Alfalfa
Authors: Reyno Rafael , Real Daniel , Brummer E. Charles
Published: July 2015

In acid soils (pHwater <5), Al becomes toxic, affecting alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) root growth and development. In the southeastern United States, Al toxicity and its associated deficiencies are the most significant factors limiting alfalfa production. This study aimed to compare genetic gain for acid or Al tolerance as assessed by seedling biomass production in acidic soil under greenhouse conditions using phenotypic recurrent selection with gridding (PRSG) and among and within family selection (AWFS) in ‘Bulldog 805’ and PRSG in the germplasm ‘Cultivated Alfalfa at the Diploid Level’ (CADL) for two cycles. Selection was based on aerial biomass production or visual score 60 d after germination in Al‐rich acidic (unlimed, UL) soil and limed soil. Cycles 0, 1, and 2 from each method and population were evaluated for their root and shoot dry weight (RDW and SDW) after 60 d in UL and limed soils. Unlimed/limed soil RDW and SDW ratios were computed. CADL did not respond to selection, probably because of the lack of initial variability for Al tolerance. Bulldog 805 selected in limed soil did not result in any improvement in limed or UL conditions but selection in UL soil improved performance in acidic soil after two cycles and did not negatively affect growth in limed soil. In Bulldog 805, PRSG had the largest response per cycle: over 20% over Cycle 0 (C0). Direct selection in UL soil was the best way to improve growth in acidic Al‐rich soils. These results need to be validated in the field.
Overexpression of Rice OsGAI in Rice and Tobacco Modulates Gibberellic Acid‐Dependent Responses
Authors: Roy Sheuli , Chattopadhyay Tirthartha , Maiti Mrinal K.
Published: July 2015

Gibberellin, or gibberellic acid (GA), is a crucial phytohormone for its role in overall plant growth and development, particularly in the regulation of plant height. Among the GA‐signaling mutants, the gai (GA insensitive) gene has been well studied in Arabidopsis [Arabidopsis thaliana (L.) Heynh.] system. The wild‐type GAI, being a DELLA‐family protein, acts as a nuclear‐localized GA‐signaling repressor that restrains the expression of other genes associated with GA‐induced growth processes. Here we document alteration in GA‐dependent multiple responses obtained through overexpression and expression of the rice (Oryza sativa L.) wild‐type GAI (OsGAI) gene in the endogenous (rice) and heterologous (tobacco [Nicotiana tabacum L.]) plant systems, respectively. In both cases, the transgenic lines were found to have significantly reduced plant height, decreased seed α‐amylase activity, reduced early seedling growth, a higher level of anthocyanin pigmentation, and reduced stem cell‐wall lignifications. Leaf chlorophyll content was found to be increased in transgenic rice but decreased in transgenic tobacco lines. The reduced lignification in transgenic tobacco was observed to be reversible on exogenous GA application and correlated to the hypersensitivity toward oxidative stress. Findings of the present research advance our understanding on the complex interplay between GAI and interacting molecules responsible for several physiological processes in plant systems.
Medical Oxygen Concentrators for Releasing Seed Dormancy
Authors: Brenner David M. , Dekker Jack , Niemi Jarad , Pfiffner Lisa
Published: July 2015

A new method is demonstrated for using concentrated oxygen (O2 gas) to release seed dormancy. Concentrated O2 gas in air is known to release seed dormancy in some seeds, including some foxtail (Setaria) species. New medical equipment makes O2 gas easier to work with than before, so laboratories working with dormant seeds can now use concentrated O2 gas as a seed treatment on a production basis. Use of medical O2 gas concentrators is simpler and safer than using O2 gas supplied by pressurized gas cylinders. Suitable medical O2 gas concentrators in new or used condition are readily available, operate on standard electrical current, and deliver O2 gas with low‐pressure tubes and fittings. Resealable plastic bags are inflated with concentrated O2 gas and then sealed as seed treatment chambers. This use of concentrated O2 gas is confirmed to significantly increase the germination of dormant seeds of giant foxtail (Setaria faberi Herrm) and plains bristlegrass (S. macrostachya Kunth).
Central Nervous System Involvement as Relapse in Undiagnosed Whipple’s Disease with Atypical Symptoms at Onset
Authors: Zalonis Ioannis , Christidi Foteini , Potagas Constantin , Rentzos Michalis , Evdokimidis Ioannis , Kararizou Evangelia
Published: July 2015

Whipple’s disease (WD) is a rare systemic disease caused by the gram-positive bacillusTropheryma Whippleiand mostly characterized by arthralgias, chronic diarrhea, weight loss, fever and abdominal pain. Central Nervous System involvement is not uncommon and it may precede other disease manifestations, appear after treatment and improvement of gastrointestinal signs or rarely be the only WD symptom. We report a case in a middle-aged male with unexplained neurological signs and symptoms which were presented as relapse of previously undiagnosed WD with atypical symptoms at onset. After diagnosis confirmation, the patient was appropriately treated which resulted in improvement of major symptoms.
Dilative Arteriopathy and Leucencephalopathy as Manifestations of a Neurometabolic Disease
Authors: Finsterer Josef , Bastovansky Adam
Published: July 2015

Background:

Dilative arteriopathy plus leucencephalopathy as a manifestation of a mitochondrial disorder (MID) is rare.

Case report:

In a 70yo Caucasian female, height 160cm, weight 62kg, with mild right-sided hemiparesis due to subacute ischemic stroke in the posterior leg of the left internal capsule, a megadolichobasilar artery and marked leucencephalopathy and gliosis of the pons were detected. In addition, microbleeds in a peripheral distribution at the cortical/subcortical border were noted. After the exclusion of various differentials, which could have explained her abnormalities, a MID was suspected.

Conclusions:

Dilative arteriopathy of the intra-cerebral arteries, in association with recurrent stroke and supra- and infratentorial leucencephalopathy, but the absence of neurofibromatosis or increased low-density lipoprotein values, is most likely attributable to a non-syndromic MID.
Solving the Measurement Problem and then Steppin’ Out over the Line Riding the Rarest Italian: Crossing the Streams to Retrieve Stable Bioactivity in Majorana Bound States of Dialy zed Human Platelet Lysates
Authors: Roedersheimer Mark
Published: July 2015

Exhaustive dialysis (ED) of lysed human platelets against dilute HCl yields stable angiogenic activity. Dialysis against a constrained external volume, with subsequent relaxation of the separation upon opening the dialysis bag, produces material able to maintain phenotypes and viability of human cells in culture better than ED material. Significant graded changes in MTT viability measurement tracked with external volume. The presence of elements smaller than the MW cutoff, capable of setting up cycling currents initiated by oriented flow of HCl across the membrane, suggests that maturation of bioactivity occurred through establishment of a novel type of geometric phase. These information-rich bound states fit recent descriptions of topological order and Majorana fermions, suggesting relevance in testing Penrose and Hameroff’s theory of Orchestrated Objective Reduction, under conditions more general, and on finer scales, than those dependent on tubulin protein. The Berry curvature appears to be a good tool for building a general field theory of physiologic stress dependent on the quantum Hall effect. A new form of geometric phase, and an associated “geometric” quantum Hall effect underlying memory retrieval, dependent on the rate of path traversal and reduction from more than two initial field influences is described.
Cerebral Palsy: A Lifelong Challenge Asks for Early Intervention
Authors: Panteliadis Christos P , Hagel Christian , Karch Dieter , Heinemann Karl
Published: July 2015

One of the oldest and probably well-known examples of cerebral palsy is the mummy of the Pharaoh Siptah about 1196–1190 B.C., and a letter from Hippocrates (460–390 B.C.). Cerebral palsy (CP) is one of the most common congenital or acquired neurological impairments in paediatric patients, and refers to a group of children with motor disability and related functional defects. The visible core of CP is characterized by abnormal coordination of movements and/or muscle tone which manifestvery earlyin the development. Resulting from pre- or perinatal brain damage CP is not a progressive condition per se. However, without systematic medical and physiotherapeutic support the dystonia leads to muscle contractions and to deterioration of the handicap. Here we review the three general spastic manifestations of CP hemiplegia, diplegia and tetraplegia, describe the diagnostic procedures and delineate a time schedule for an early intervention.
Comparative efficacy and safety of daclatasvir/asunaprevir versus IFN-based regimens in genotype 1b hepatitis C virus infection
Authors: Signorovitch James E , Betts Keith A , Song Yan , Sorg Rachael A , Li Junlong , Behl Ajay S , Kalsekar Anupama
Published: July 2015

Aim:
Efficacy and safety comparison of daclatasvir/asunaprevir (DCV + ASV) versus peginterferon-α/ribavirin (A/R) alone or combined with telaprevir, boceprevir, simeprevir or sofosbuvir in chronic genotype 1b hepatitis C virus infection.
Methods:
Network meta-analysis (NMA) and matching-adjusted indirect comparisons (MAICs).
Results:
Among treatment-naive patients, DCV + ASV demonstrated higher sustained virologic response (SVR) rates than telaprevir + A/R, boceprevir + A/R and A/R in NMA and MAICs and simeprevir + A/R in NMA. DCV + ASV among treatment-experienced patients had higher SVR rates than telaprevir + A/R, boceprevir + A/R, simeprevir + A/R and A/R in MAICs. DCV + ASV had lower adverse events rates than comparators.
Conclusion:
DCV + ASV demonstrated superior efficacy and safety compared with A/R-based regimens
On commutativity of quasi-minimal groups
Authors: Moconja Slavko
Published: July 2015

We investigate if every quasi-minimal group is abelian, and give a positive
answer for a quasi-minimal pure group having a ?-definable partial order with
uncountable chains. We also relate two properties of a complete theory in a
countable language: the existence of a quasi-minimal model and the existence
of a strongly regular type. As a consequence we derive the equivalence of
conjectures on commutativity of quasi-minimal groups and commutativity of
regular groups.
Series pid pitch controller of large wind turbines generator
Authors: Micic Aleksandar , Matausek Miroslav
Published: July 2015

For this stable process with oscillatory dynamics, characterized with small
damping ratio and dominant transport delay, design of the series PID pitch
controller is based on the model obtained from the open-loop process step
response, filtered with the second-order Butterworth filter Fbw. Performance
of the series PID pitch controller, with the filter Fbw, is analyzed by
simulations of the set-point and input/output disturbance responses,
including simulations with a colored noise added to the control variable.
Excellent performance/robustness tradeoff is obtained, compared to the
recently proposed PI pitch controllers and to the modified internal model
pitch controller, developed here, which has a natural mechanism to compensate
effect of dominant transport delay.
Papillomavirus infection of roe deer in the Czech Republic and fibropapilloma-associated levels of metallothionein, zinc, and oxidative stress
Authors: Král Jiří , Banďouchová Hana , Brichta Jiří , Kováčová Veronika , Ondráček Karel , Osičková Jitka , Hrubá Hana , Hutařová Zdeňka , Komínková Markéta , Cernei Natalia , Konečná Marie , Tmejová Kateřina , Zítka Ondřej , Adam Vojtěch , Kizek René , Škorič Miša , Tremlová Bohuslava , Treml František , Pikula Jiří
Published: July 2015

The present study aimed at the aetiological diagnosis of skin tumours of roe deer (Capreolus capreolus) in the Czech Republic. A total of 33 roe deer specimens showing skin masses were sampled for histopathology, virus detection and identification using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and deoxyribonucleic acid sequence (DNA) analysis, and to investigate fibropapilloma-associated levels of metallothionein, zinc and oxidative stress in 2012 and 2013. Ticks (Ixodes ricinus) and deer keds (Lipoptena cervi) were also collected and pooled from sampled game specimens. Ticks found on dogs in hunting grounds under study were pooled into another sample. Skin tumours, ranging from 2 to 10 per inspected specimen and 2 to 5 cm in size, were classified as fibropapillomas by histopathology. All 33 viral-infection-suspected skin samples from roe deer in South Moravia and South Bohemia were PCR positive. The nucleotide sequences of PCR products were 100% homologous to the Western roe deer papillomavirus 1 isolate CcPV-1. Ticks and deer keds from positive roe deer and ticks from dogs were PCR and DNA sequence positive for the roe deer papillomavirus. Viral DNA was also demonstrated in one blood sample from a roe deer female. Differences in metallothionein, zinc, taurine and electrochemical index among samples from lesions and normal skin of affected roe deer and negative controls from papillomavirus-non-infected animals were non-significant. While we have demonstrated circulation of specific roe deer papillomavirus in the Czech Republic that results in multiple fibropapillomatous skin tumours, many ecological and epidemiological issues of this wildlife disease still remain unanswered.
Modernization of a surface grinding machine with a novel ball screw drive
Authors: Çelen Serap
Published: July 2015

Several manufacturing methods have been adopted to modify old grinding machines. The purpose of the present study has two aspects: the design of a novel bear housing and a rigid ball screw system, and their exact manufacture to provide accuracy and reduce voices at the cross axis. The components of the new ball screw system were manufactured and they were integrated in a legendary Jones Shipman grinding machine.
Ductile fracture behavior of low carbon high strength steel using continuum damage mechanics
Authors: Ajit K. Priya , Gautam Abhinav , Sarkar P. K.
Published: July 2015

In this paper ductile fracture of low carbon high strength steel is estimated following the phenomenological approach of continuum damage mechanics (CDM) evolved by Lemaitre. This assumes damage, corresponding to void growth and their coalescence during large deformation, to be isotropic and ductile in nature. The CDM formalism allows estimating the ductile behavior by a damage variable D. This is evaluated from elastic modulus degradation measurement of uniaxial tensile tests with loading–unloading cycles. The result obtained in terms of D
C, the critical value of damage, is found to be 0.44. This gives a measure of ductile fracture from the CDM approach. Respective average D values corresponding to every elastic modulus degradation estimate are used for simulation of ductile behavior of the material. The simulation result closely approximates the experimental flow curve up to about 15 % of strain with minor deviation beyond this strain level up to fracture. The method shown provides a way to evaluate ductile behavior of a material conveniently.
Post-Angiography Contrast-Induced Encephalopathy
Authors: Shareef Adnan , Anam Ahmad Mursel , Alam Meher Nigar , Rabbani Raihan
Published: July 2015

The use of radio-contrast agents are increasing day by day in modern imaging modalities. But they are not completely risk free. Among others, contrast-induced encephalopathy is a rare adverse effect. We report a patient with end-stage renal disease developing contrast induced encephalopathy following coronary angiogram (CAG).Bangladesh Crit Care J September 2014; 2 (2): 85-86
Patterns of AKI Patients Requiring Sustained Low Efficiency Dialysis (SLED) Admitted in an ICU of Bangladesh
Authors: Fatema Kaniz , Faruq Mohammad Omar , Ahsan ASM Areef , Ahmed Fatema
Published: July 2015

Background: Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common and serious complication among patients admitted in intensive care units (ICUs). The incidence, cause, severity and outcome of AKI in Bangladeshi ICUs is largely unknown. The aim of this study was to find out the cause of AKI among the hemodynamically unstable patients requiring SLED admitted to the ICU of BIRDEM Hospital, Dhaka, Bangladesh.Methods: All critically ill patients of AKI admitted to the 10 bed mixed adult ICU over a period of a year were studied prospectively if they needed SLED. Standard demographic, physiologic and clinical data were collected. Severity of illness was assessed using acute physiology and chronic health evaluation (APACHE) II score. Diagnosis of AKI was based on Acute Kidney Injury Network (AKIN) criteria.Results: 43 hemodynamically unstable patients with AKI were studied. Mean age of the patients were 60.12 ± 14.57 with 67.4% male patients. 35% patients had de novo AKI where as 65% had acute on chronic renal failure. There was high prevalence of DM (72.1%) and HTN (60.5%) among study patients. Septic shock (48.83%) and cardiac cause including acute myocardial infarction and/or cardiogenic shock (46.51%) were the two commonest causes of AKI in our ICU.Conclusion: Higher age, pre-existing chronic renal impairment, DM and HTN were associated with AKI with hemodynamic instability requiring SLED. Sepsis is the commonest cause of AKI followed by cardiac causes. As expected, sicker patients with high APACHE II score were more likely to develop AKI. However, a larger scale study should be done including all hemodynamically unstable AKI patients admitted in different ICUs of BangladeshBangladesh Crit Care J September 2014; 2 (2): 68-70
When do our patients need a pinch of salt
Authors: Saseedharan Sanjith
Published: July 2015

Hyponatremia is a well known occurrence in traumatic and non traumatic brain injury which is known to complicate the management, affect the prognosis and increase hospital length of stay. Hypertonic saline is one of the drugs among the clinicians armamentarium in order to combat this complication. However its use is marked with many controversies and myths due to lack of robust evidence and non uniformity of trial protocols. In this review the author attempts to review the use of hypertonic saline in brain injury touching on practical use, indications, limitations and goes on to suggest a practical protocol for hypertonic saline in brain injury with raised intracranial pressure. Data Sources: MEDLINE, MICROMEDEX, The Cochrane database of Systematic Reviews from 1967 through May 2012.Bangladesh Crit Care J March 2015; 3 (1): 22-26
Accounting in Islamic Perspective: A Timely Opportunity, a Timely Challenge
Authors: Arif Billah Alim Al Ayub Ahmed , Islam Md Alidul
Published: July 2015

Accounting from Islamic Perspectives (AIP) is an emerging field. Recent years have attracted scholars from around the world who have contributed their thoughts about how accounting can be seen from the Islamic lens. However, the efforts so far are rather fragmented and without a clear agenda for future research. This paper presents a review of the literary achievements made in the field and the areas of current focus. Although the field carries a huge growth potential, the author argues that there are several challenges and problems that the proponents of AIP will face as the field develops further. This paper outlines these problems and challenges and makes suggestions to surmount the potential pitfalls. It is argued herein that, in order to develop AIP as a formal discipline and integrate it within real-life business practices, the research efforts need to be more organized through an international consortium of researchers. A brief proposal for such consortium is included here. Finally, recommendations are made for potential research directions in which future research on AIP can be pursued.IIUC Studies Vol.9 December 2012: 187-214
Toward Islamization of Science and Technology
Authors: Ferdous Fouzia , Uddin Muhammad Athar
Published: July 2015

The attitude and knowledge of Muslim Scientists can play an important role in the efforts for Islamization of Knowledge. Unfortunately, all sciences including Engineering and Technology of today which flourished at the hands of Muslim scholars in the medieval age are void completely from Islamic attitude and spirit. The Muslim Scientists of today are obligated to the Muslim Ummah to bring the spirit of sciences back in accordance with the spirit of Islam. Concrete proposals with specific plans should be further pursued, both academically and practically in the process of Islamization of Science and Technology.IIUC Studies Vol.9 December 2012: 233-242
Conflicting Incentives Risk Analysis: A Case Study of the Normative Peer Review Process
Authors: Wangen Gaute
Published: July 2015

This paper presents an approach to conduct risk assessments of complex incentive systems, using a case study of the normative Peer Review Process (PRP). This research centers on appliances and adaptations of the Conflicting Incentives Risk Analysis (CIRA). First as an approach to Root Cause Analysis of a known incident, and then for a full assessment of the incentives in the PRP together with possible risk treatments. CIRA uses an alternative notion of risk, where risk modeling is in terms of conflicting incentives between the risk owner and the stakeholders concerning the execution of actions. Compared to traditional risk assessment approaches, CIRA provides an insight into the underlying incentives behind a risk, and not just the technical vulnerability, likelihood and consequence. The main contributions of this work are an approach to obtain insight into incentives as root causes, and an approach to detecting and analyzing risks from incentives in the normative PRP. This paper also discusses risk treatments in terms of incentives to make the PRP more robust, together with a discussion of how to approach risk analysis of incentives.
Purification and Structural Identification of Polysaccharides from Bamboo Shoots (Dendrocalamus latiflorus)
Authors: Wu Jinsong , Zheng Jiong , Xia Xuejuan , Kan Jianquan
Published: July 2015

Three kinds of polysaccharides, namely, BSP1A, BSP2A, and BSP3B, were isolated from raw bamboo shoot (Dendrocalamus latiflorus) after purification and classification by DEAE cellulose-52 (ion-exchange chromatography) and Sephadex G-50. The molecular weights of BSP1A, BSP2A, and BSP3B were 10.2, 17.0 and 20.0 kDa, respectively, which were measured through GPC (gel performance chromtatography) methods. BSP1A contained arabinose, glucose, and galactose in a molar ratio of 1.0:40.6:8.7. BSP2A and BSP3B contained arabinose, xylose, glucose, and galactose in molar ratios of 6.6:1.0:5.2:10.4 and 8.5:1.0:5.1:11.1, respectively. The existence of the O-glycopeptide bond in BSP1A, BSP2A, and BSP3B was demonstrated by β-elimination reaction. FTIR spectra of the three polysaccharides showed that both BSP2A and BSP3B contained β-d-pyranose sugar rings. However, BSP1A exhibited both β-d-pyranose and α-d-pyranose sugar rings. Congo red test indicated that BSP1A and BSP2A displayed triple helix structures, but BSP3B did not. NMR spectroscopy revealed that BSP1A may exhibit a β-1,6-Glucan pyran type as the main link, and few 1,6-glycosidic galactose pyranose and arabinose bonds were connected; BSP2A mainly demonstrated →5)β-Ara(1→and→3)β-Gal(1→connection. Furthermore, BSP3B mainly presented →3)β-Glu(1→and→3)β-Gal(1→connection and may also contain few other glycosidic bonds.
Extremophiles in Mineral Sulphide Heaps: Some Bacterial Responses to Variable Temperature, Acidity and Solution Composition
Authors: Watling Helen , Shiers Denis , Collinson David
Published: July 2015

In heap bioleaching, acidophilic extremophiles contribute to enhanced metal extraction from mineral sulphides through the oxidation of Fe(II) and/or reduced inorganic sulphur compounds (RISC), such as elemental sulphur or mineral sulphides, or the degradation of organic compounds derived from the ore, biota or reagents used during mineral processing. The impacts of variable solution acidity and composition, as well as temperature on the three microbiological functions have been examined for up to four bacterial species found in mineral sulphide heaps. The results indicate that bacteria adapt to sufficiently high metal concentrations (Cu, Ni, Co, Zn, As) to allow them to function in mineral sulphide heaps and, by engaging alternative metabolic pathways, to extend the solution pH range over which growth is sustained. Fluctuating temperatures during start up in sulphide heaps pose the greatest threat to efficient bacterial colonisation. The large masses of ores in bioleaching heaps mean that high temperatures arising from sulphide oxidation are hard to control initially, when the sulphide content of the ore is greatest. During that period, mesophilic and moderately thermophilic bacteria are markedly reduced in both numbers and activity.
Development and Characterization of Novel EST-SSRs from Larix gmelinii and Their Cross-Species Transferability
Authors: Zhang Guojun , Sun Zhenzhen , Zhou Di , Xiong Min , Wang Xian , Yang Junming , Wei Zunzheng
Published: July 2015

A set of 899 L. gmelinii expression sequence tags (ESTs), available at the National Center of Biotechnology Information (NCBI), was employed to address the feasibility on development of simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers for Larch species. Totally, 634 non-redundant unigenes including 145 contigs and 489 singletons were finally identified and mainly involved in biosynthetic, metabolic processes and response to stress according to BLASTX results, gene ontology (GO) categories and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) maps. Approximately 11.7% (74) unigenes contained 90 candidate SSRs, which were mainly trinucleotides (29, 32.2%) and dinucleotides (26, 28.9%). A relatively high frequency of SSRs was respectively found in the Open Reading Frame (ORF, about 54.4%) and 5′-untranslated region (5′-UTR, 31.2%), while a low frequency was observed in the 3′-untranslated region (3′-UTR, about 14.4%). Of the 45 novel EST-SSRs markers, nine were found to be polymorphic at two L. gmelinii populations. The number of alleles per locus (Na) ranged from two to four, and the observed (Ho) and expected (He) heterozygosity values were 0.200–0.733 and 0.408–0.604, respectively. The inbreeding coefficients (FIS) for all loci were more than zero except Lg41. Most of these 9EST-SSR markers were transferable to its related species L. kaempferi, L. principis-rupprechtii and L. olgensis. These novel EST-SSRs will be useful for further research on comparative genomics, genetic resources conservation and molecular breeding in larch trees.
Facing Hymenoptera Venom Allergy: From Natural to Recombinant Allergens
Authors: Perez-Riverol Amilcar , Justo-Jacomini Débora , Zollner Ricardo , Brochetto-Braga Márcia
Published: July 2015

Along with food and drug allergic reactions, a Hymenoptera insect Sting (Apoidea, Vespidae, Formicidae) is one of the most common causes of anaphylaxis worldwide. Diagnoses of Hymenoptera venom allergy (HVA) and specific immunotherapy (SIT) have been based on the use of crude venom extracts. However, the incidence of cross-reactivity and low levels of sensibility during diagnosis, as well as the occurrence of nonspecific sensitization and undesired side effects during SIT, encourage the search for novel allergenic materials. Recombinant allergens are an interesting approach to improve allergy diagnosis and SIT because they circumvent major problems associated with the use of crude venom. Production of recombinant allergens depends on the profound molecular characterization of the natural counterpart by combining some “omics” approaches with high-throughput screening techniques and the selection of an appropriate system for heterologous expression. To date, several clinically relevant allergens and novel venom toxins have been identified, cloned and characterized, enabling a better understanding of the whole allergenic and envenoming processes. Here, we review recent findings on identification, molecular characterization and recombinant expression of Hymenoptera venom allergens and on the evaluation of these heterologous proteins as valuable tools for tackling remaining pitfalls on HVA diagnosis and immunotherapy.
L'un des plus anciens papiers du monde exhumé récemment en Mongolie – découverte, analyses physico-chimiques et contexte scientifique
Authors: André Guilhem , Desroches Jean-Paul , Drège Jean-Pierre , Rouchon Véronique
Published: July 2015

Although the existence of paper is attested in China by recent archaeological excavations linked to the Han dynasties (206 BC-220 AD), such discoveries remain very rare in Eastern Asia. Until recent times, the presence of paper was only confirmed in China. The oldest example known to date outside of the Chinese boundaries, and precisely dated between the end of the 1st century BC and the middle of the 1st century AD, has just been discovered by the French archaeological Mission in Mongolia at the site of Gol Mod in Central Mongolia. The Gol Mod necropolis is one of the rare burial sites intended for the elite of a half-nomadic tribe confederation known as Xiongnu (ca. 3rd c. BC-3rd c. AD). In this cemetery, one of the largest monuments, the grave T20, revealed a substantial quantity of artifacts, amongst which chariots must apparently be regarded as specific symbols of power. In this grave, the chariot 2 contained a paper fragment used as filling material. First, we will describe the vehicle and compare it with specimens found in China and Mongolia. Then, we will provide the result of the test made on this fragment which allows its identification. The study will continue by locating the fragment in the set of the preceding discoveries of old papers in China and more generally in the history of the invention of paper.
Nouvelles perspectives pour la connaissance de l'histoire de la fin de la période angkorienne au Cambodge : notes sur quelques bas-reliefs de la galerie intérieure du Bayon
Authors: Provost-Roche Ludivine
Published: July 2015

This paper refers to some conclusions of a Ph.D. thesis which deals with the history and art history of Ancient Cambodia at the end of the Angkorian period (ca. 1220-ca. 1431). After a presentation of previous studies about these little documented centuries, a brief picture of historical and religious context is provided, emphasizing the principal events. While dynastic chronology is interrupted for fifty years (1220 -1270), the Mahāyānic form of Buddhism is suddenly ousted by Saivite sectarian devotees. At the same time, the Theravāda, the alternative Buddhist current, comes to the fore. On such subjects, we open new vistas based on the study of "bas-reliefs" pertaining to the inner gallery of the Bayon temple at Angkor. First, we determine some dating criteria which confirm that these bas-reliefs have been sculpted at the end of the Angkorian period. Then, looking at some of the iconographical subjects appearing here, we have been able to show the presence of the two latest Mahāyānic scenes known in Ancient Cambodian art and to underline the historical consequences of that fact : it proves that Mahāyāna Buddhism, which is usually said to have disappeared after the death of king Jayavarman VII, has in fact persisted after that. We have also noticed that these bas-reliefs are, on the whole, innovative and they prove that Indian contributions are not forsaken.
A Cross-Cultural Study of Oral Narrative Style
Authors: Tannen Deborah
Published: July 2015

Proceedings of the 4th Annual Meeting of the Berkeley Linguistics Society (1978), pp. 640-650
Communication Strategies in Conversation: The Case of Scenes from a Marriage
Authors: Lakoff Robin Tolmach , Tannen Deborah
Published: July 2015

Proceedings of the Fifth Annual Meeting of the Berkeley Linguistics Society (1979), pp. 581-592
Evidence Against the Use of Word Boundaries in Tonological Rules: An Autosegmental Approach to the Fast Speech of the Tokyo Dialect of Japanese
Authors: Hasegawa Nobuko
Published: July 2015

Proceedings of the Fifth Annual Meeting of the Berkeley Linguistics Society (1979), pp. 385-396