bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effects of low-level laser therapy on xerostomia (mouth dryness)
Authors: Pavlic Verica
Published: May 2012

Introduction. Xerostomia is a subjective complaint of mouth/oral dryness,
caused by a reduction in normal salivary secretion due to different causes.
Even though there are many available treatment modalities to enhance salivary
flow, the therapy often remains unsatisfactory. The low-level laser therapy
(low-level laser irradiation, photo-biomodulation) has been extensively used
as a new, non-invasive approach and advantageous tool for reduction of
xerostomia. Therefore, the aim of this study is to give a systematic overview
on the effects of low-level laser therapy on xerostomia. Material and
Methods. A systematic review of published articles in PubMed database was
carried out using keywords: ?low-level laser therapy?, ?xerostomia?, ?mouth
dryness?. Results. In all published articles, which were considered adequate
for this overview, positive effects of low-level laser therapy were reported.
Low-level laser therapy could significantly enhance salivary secretion and
improve antimicrobial characteristics of secreted saliva (increased level of
secretory immunoglobulin A; sIgA). Furthermore, low-level laser therapy could
improve salivary flow and regeneration of salivary duct epithelial cells.
Conclusion. The current literature suggests that low-level laser therapy can
be safely and effectively used as an advanced treatment modality for
reduction of xerostomia. Further in vivo, in vitro and clinical studies using
different irradiation parameters are suggested to determine the best laser
parameters to be used.
Evaluation of methods for rapid microalbuminuria screening in kidney diseased patients
Authors: Dajak Marijana , Bontic Ana , Ignjatovic Svetlana , Pavlovic Jelena , Majkic-Singh Nada , Lezaic Visnja
Published: May 2012

Introduction. One of the criteria for chronic kidney disease detection is
determination of microalbuminuria. Objective. This analysis was performed to
evaluate accuracy of three useful methods for microalbuminuria detection in
24h urine collection and in the morning urine specimen calculated from urine
albumin creatinine ratio, or with a dipstick in patients with different
kidney diseases or kidney function. Methods. Microalbuminuria was detected in
74 patients referred to the Outpatient Nephrology Department for kidney
function determination or regular nephrology checking. Albumin concentration
determined using immunonephelometry was lower than 300 mg/day. Discriminates
cutoff values for spot urine test strip and albumin creatinin ratio in
predicting 24 h protein ?threshold? excretion were determined using ROC
analysis. Results. Mean value of 24 h microalbuminuria was 80.3 mg/24 h, and
value >30 mg/24 h was present in 71.8% of patient. Correlation coefficients
between dipstick microalbuminuria or albumin/creatinine ratio in a spot urine
specimen and 24 h microalbuminuria were 0.709 and 0.598 (p<0.0001). For
pathological value of 24 h microalbuminuria >30 mg/24 h, the coresponding
dipstick microalbuminuria value was ?20 mg/L (AUC 0.849, specificity 95%,
positive predictive value 97.3%), and ?3.55 mg albumin/mmol creatinine ratio
(AUC 0.914, specificity 90% and positive predictive value 95.5%). No
difference was found between dipstick mikroalbuminuria and albumin/creatinine
ratio value. In addition, albumin/creatinine ratio value from 24 h urine was
similar to the value obtained from the spot urine sample. Conclusion.
Obtained results indicated that albuminuria could be determined accurately in
spot urine either with the Micral test strip or with albumin creatinine
ratio.
Antibiotic resistance of uropathogens in newborns and young children with acute pyelonephritis
Authors: Peco-Antic Amira , Paripovic Dusan , Buljugic Svetlana , Kruscic Divna , Spasojevic Brankica , Cvetkovic Mirjana , Kostic Mirjana , Laban-Nestorovic Suzana , Milosevski-Lomic Gordana
Published: May 2012

Introduction. Urinary tract infection is common in childhood. Depending on
the localization of the infection, severity of its clinical presentation and
possible acute and long-term complications, it may be described as either
acute cystitis or acute pyelonephritis. Objective. The aim of this study was
to assess the resistance patterns of uropathogens during the last 5 years in
newborns and young children with acute pyelonephritis. Methods. Uropathogens
resistance to commonly usable anti-microbial agents (ampicillin, a
combination of sulphamethoxasole and trimethoprim, cephalexin, ceftriaxone,
cefotaxime, ceftazidime, gentamycin, amikacin, ciprofloxacin, imipenem and
nalidixic acid) was retrospectively studied in newborns and young children
treated during early (2005-2007) and late (2008-2009) study periods.
Anti-bacterial susceptibility testing of the urine isolates was performed by
the standard disc diffusion method. Results. 117 newborns and 294 children
aged 9.3?0.7 months were treated during early (n=136) or late (n=275) study
period due to the first episode of acute pyelonephritis. Escherichia coli was
the most common bacterial pathogen (85.5%). Compared to children older than
one month, newborns had higher degree of antibacterial resistance to 2nd and
3rd generation cephalosporins, aminoglycosides, and nalidixic acid during
early, and to ceftazidime, aminoglycosides and nalidixic acid during late
study period. Also, multidrug resistance was more common in newborns during
the early study period. Conclusion. Newborns had higher rate of antibacterial
resistance than young children. The progressive increase of anti-microbial
resistance in children with acute pyelonephritis is of great concern.
Clinical characteristics and disease course in children with haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis treated at the University children’s hospital in Belgrade
Authors: Krivokapic-Dokmanovic Lidija , Krstovski Nada , Jankovic Srdja , Lazic Jelena , Radlovic Nedeljko , Janic Dragana
Published: May 2012

Introduction. Haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is a disorder
characterised by long-standing fever, splenomegaly and bicytopoenia or
pancytopoenia. Lymphadenopathy, jaundice and neurological symptoms may also
occur. HLH may ensue in various forms of innate or acquired immunodeficiency
with impaired cytotoxic lymphocyte function resulting in excessive macrophage
activation. Objective. To describe and analyse clinical characteristics of
patients treated for HLH at the University Children?s Hospital of Belgrade
from August 2000 to August 2010. Methods. Retrospective analysis of medical
records. Results. Diagnosis of HLH was established in 13 children (five boys
and eight girls) aged from one month to 14 years. In six children HLH was
secondary (to visceral leishmaniasis in two, Ebstein-Barr virus infection in
one, Langerhans? cell histiocytosis in one and systemic juvenile rheumatoid
arthritis in two). Of the remaining seven patients, genes for perforin and
syntaxin 11 were examined in two and no mutations were found. Of the
remaining seven patients, genes encoding perforin and syntaxin 11 were
analyzed in two, but no mutations were found. All children had fever,
splenomegaly, cytopoenias, hyperferritinaemia and hypertriglyceridaemia, but
haemophagocytosis was seen in only six (46.1%). Six children were cured (four
with secondary HLH and two with primary HLH). Two children are undergoing
treatment, while five succumbed (three before treatment could be administered
and two due to complications). In four of the six cured children, HLH arose
in the first year of life. Cure rate in those who underwent haematopoietic
stem cell trans- plantation was 2/3. Conclusion. Results underscore the
importance of timely diagnosis and treatment of HLH, warranting that in all
children with fever, splenomegaly and/or cytopoenias, with or without
haemophagocytosis, HLH be actively sought.
Significance of perfectionism in understanding different forms of insomnia
Authors: Totic-Poznanovic Sanja , Saula-Marojevic Biljana , Zebic Mirjana
Published: May 2012

Introduction. Studies consistently show a connection between perfectionism as
a multidimensional construct with various psychological and
psychopathological states and characteristics. However, studies that analyze
the connection between this concept and sleep disturbances, especially
modalities of insomnia, are rare. Objective. The aim of this study was to
examine whether dimensions of perfectionism can explain different forms of
insomnia; difficulties initiating sleep (insomnia early), difficulties during
the sleep (insomnia middle), waking in early hours of the morning (insomnia
late) and dissatisfaction with sleep quality (subjective insomnia). Methods.
The sample consisted of 254 students of the School of Medicine in Belgrade.
Predictive significance of nine perfectionism dimensions, measured by Frost?s
and Hewitt?s and Flett?s scales of multi-dimensional perfectionism, related
to four modalities of insomnia, measured by a structured questionnaire, was
analyzed by multiple linear regression method. Results. Perfectionism
dimensions are significant predictors of each of the tested forms of
insomnia. Doubt about actions significantly predicts initial insomnia; to
other-oriented perfectionism in the negative pole and socially prescribed
perfectionism underlie the difficulties during the sleep, while organization
and parental criticism underlie late insomnia. Significant predictors of
subjective insomnia are personal standards and organization and to
other-oriented perfectionism on the negative pole. Three of nine analyzed
dimensions were not confirmed as significant; concern over mistakes, parental
expectations and self-oriented perfectionism. Conclusion. Various aspects of
perfectionism can be considered as a vulnerability factor for understanding
some forms of insomnia. Out of all forms of insomnia tested, perfectionism as
the personality trait proved to be the most significant for understanding
subjective insomnia.
Pendular stromal tumour of the stomach with dominant PDGFRA immunoexpression: Case report and short literature review
Authors: Latincic Stojan , Colovic Natasa , Micev Marjan , Colovic Radoje
Published: May 2012

Introduction. Gastrointestinal stromal tumours are most frequent mesenchimal
tumours of the gastrointestinal tract that originate from Cajal?s
interstitial cells that are most frequently CD-117 positive. Stromal tumours
of the stomach are the most frequent mesenchimal tumours of the
gastrointestinal tract. Such tumours are usually sessile, but rarely pendular
when they can be easily removed with a limited local excision of the stomach
wall around the pedicle. Major stomach resections are rarely necessary. Case
Outline. In a 54-year-old woman with abdominal pain and fever of unknown
aetiology, a large spherical mobile and almost painless mass was found within
the upper right abdomen. US and CT showed a mainly cystic, partly solid
tumour, of 15.5?12.5 cm in diameters. Laboratory data including tumour
markers were within normal limits. At operation a mobile and free tumour of
the stomach attached to the anterior wall with a 2.5 cm pedicle was found and
easily excised. Abdominal mucosa was normal. There was no liver metastasis or
peritoneal dissemination. Hystology and imunohistochemistry showed a rare
sclerosing sincitial subtype of stromal tumour with imunophenotype
heterogenicity with a dominant PDGFRA and rare CD-117 immunoexpression. The
postoperative recovery was uneventful. The patient was symptom-free with no
sign of recurrence after a year and a half. Conclusion. A rare subtype of
histological highly malignant stromal tumour of the stomach, macroscopically
of pendular type, that was easily excised, was presented which so far showed
a favourable evolution with no signs of recurrence.
Laparoscopic body-tail pancreatic resection for insulinoma
Authors: Cvijanovic Radovan , Ivanov Dejan , Mitrovic Milena , Djolai Matilda , Petrovic Dejan , Tesic Olivera
Published: May 2012

Introduction. Insulinomas are the most common endocrine tumours of the
pancreas. They are more frequent in females, and they are commonly less than
2 cm in diameter. If conservative treatment of typical clinical symptoms
fails, detailed diagnostic procedures are necessary and surgical treatment is
indicated. The aim of this report was to emphasize the need of pancreatic
resection when insulinoma is poorly visualized during surgery and when it is
not possible to perform intraoperative ultrasonography. Case Outline. A
27-year-old female patient suffered from hypoglycaemic episodes during
physical efforts and fasting periods. After examination, diagnostic
procedures and preoperative preparation, laparoscopic surgery was performed.
The tumour was less than 10 mm in diameter, and it could not be visualized
during laparoscopic exploration. The body and the tail of the pancreas were
mobilized using ultrasound scissors and the resection was performed by two
Endo GIA staplers. The surgical specimen was removed in an endo-bag. The
postoperative course was without complications and the glycemic level was
normalized. Macroscopic examination of the resected specimen showed a
solitary, poorly demarcated, dark grey lesion, 0.8 cm in diameter, with a
solid consistence in comparison with the surrounding gland tissue.
Histological examination showed a poorly demarcated, subcapsular tissue in
this area, consisting of uniform, irregular, cubic and short cylindrical
cells, organized in clusters with pseudoglandular and ?zellballen?
formations. Conclusion. In case when the insulinoma is so small in size that
it cannot be visualized during operation, pancreas resection is a surgical
procedure of choice. Laparoscopic surgery is preferred because of less
postoperative complications and faster recovery.
Distal ileal endometriosis as a cause of ileus: A case report
Authors: Gregoric Pavle , Doklestic Krstina , Pandurovic Milena , Radenkovic Dejan , Karadzic Borivoje , Raspopovic Milos , Micev Marjan , Ivancevic Nenad , Sijacki Ana , Bajec Djordje
Published: May 2012

Introduction. Endometriosis is a benign condition affecting females of
reproductive age. Although intestinal endometriosis is common, it is rarely
manifested as an acute bowel obstruction secondary to ileal endometriosis.
Enteric endometriosis should be considered as a differential diagnosis when
assessing females of reproductive age with acute small bowel obstruction.
Case Outline. A 41-year-old woman presented with symptoms and signs of an
acute small bowel obstruction requiring emergency surgery. A small bowel
resection was performed with end-to-end anastomosis. Histological examination
demonstrated endometriosis with fibrosis and stricture of the ileal segment.
This case is important to report as it highlights the diagnostic difficulty
this particular condition presents to an emergency surgeon. Conclusion. In
the differential diagnosis, endometriosis should be taken into consideration
when assessing females of reproductive age who present with abdominal pain
and small bowel obstruction.
Immediate allergic reaction to methylprednisolone with tolerance of other corticosteroids
Authors: Atanaskovic-Markovic Marina , Gavrovic-Jankulovic Marija , Jankovic Srdja , Blagojevic Gordan , Cirkovic-Velickovic Tanja , Milojevic Irina , Simic Dusica , Nestorovic Branimir
Published: May 2012

Introduction. In spite of the wide usage of corticosteroids for the treatment
of a plethora of diseases, sometimes they can induce immediate
hypersensitivity reactions, which are however uncommon. Case Outline. We
report a case of immediate allergic reaction induced by intravenous
methylprednisolone given before operation for surgical repair of an arm
contracture as a sequel of burns, which the child had tolerated a month
before. Six weeks later the patient repeated the anaphylactic reaction during
skin testing to methylprednisolone. In addition, basophile activation test
with methylprednisolone (BAT) was positive. Conclusion. This case report
describes a patient who experienced intraoperative anaphylaxis and
anaphylactic reaction induced by skin testing. This is the first report on
induction of both anaphylactic reactions by methylprednisolone in the same
child. Clinical findings, positive BAT and positive skin tests with
methylprednisolone imply that the child developed type-I hypersensitivity.
The lack of cross-reactivity with other corticosteroids emphasizes that the
reactions were caused by the steroid molecule.
Cystic fibrosis
Authors: Radlovic Nedeljko
Published: May 2012

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a multisystemic autosomal recessive disease caused by
a defect in the expression of CFTR protein, i.e. chloride channel present in
the apical membrane of respiratory, digestive, reproductive and sweat glands
epithelium. It primarily occurs in the Caucasians, while being considerably
or exceptionally rare in persons of other races. Absence, deficit or
structural and functional abnormalities of CFTR protein lead to mucosal
hyperconcentration in the respiratory, digestive and reproductive systems and
malabsorption of chloride and sodium in the sweat glands. Thus, the clinical
features of patients? with CF are predominated by respiratory, digestive and
reproductive disorders, as well as the tendency to dehydration in the
condition of increased sweating. Beside genotype variations, the degree of
disease manifestation is also essentially influenced by various exogenous
factors, such as the frequency and severity of respiratory infections, the
level of aero-pollution, quality of immunoprophylaxis, patients? nutritional
condition and other. Chloride concentration of over 60 mmol/L in sweat, a
high level of immunoreactive chymotrypsinogen in blood and the verification
of homozygous mutation of CFTR gene are the basic methods in the diagnostics
of the disease. CF belongs to the group of severe and complex chronic
diseases, and therefore requires multidisciplinary therapeutic approach.
Owing to the improvement of healthcare provision, most patients with CF now
survive into adulthood. In addition, their quality of life is also
considerably improved.
A spectral characterization of skeletal maps
Authors: Banakh Taras , Kucharski Andrzej , Martynenko Marta
Published: May 2012

We prove that a map between two realcompact spaces is skeletal if and only if it is homeomorphic to the limit map of a skeletal morphism between ω-spectra with surjective limit projections.
Infrared stimulated luminescence (IRSL) properties of natural aluminum corrosion
Authors: Şahiner Eren , Meriç Niyazi
Published: May 2012

In this paper, the infrared stimulated luminescence (IRSL) property of naturally corroded aluminum and its possible applications in retrospective dosimetry have been briefly studied. Results are interesting, in particular with regard to the efforts of finding new and widely available materials for accident dosimetry. For aluminum corrosion, the dose response was found to be approximately linear between 2–80 Gy and to reach saturation before 300 Gy. The signal also showed good repro-ducibility without significant fading over storage durations of up to four mounts at room temperature. In addition to the luminescence, the corrosion samples were also analysed by X-ray Fluorescence (XRF) and X-ray Diffraction (XRD), but conclusive identification of the luminescent phase could not be made. It is concluded that the IRSL signals of this material can be favourable for dosimetry research.
Performing Gender by Performing Music: Constructions of Masculinities in a College Music Scene
Authors: Ramirez Michael
Published: May 2012

Using interview data from twenty-eight men performing in independent rock bands in a college music town, this study examines the consequences informal careers have on constructions of masculinities. First, musicians illustrate the ways in which musical commitment poses challenges to normative masculinities as they move into adulthood. In particular, parents, families, and peers regard musicianhood as lacking the attainment of full adulthood, as well as a lesser achievement of normative masculinity. Second, musicians illustrate the consequences of musical commitment, particularly how they negotiate and construct their masculinities within musical contexts. In general, men use musical worlds as a site to play with innovative gender identities, but continue to be bound by traditional assumptions of culturally-appropriate adult masculinities.
“Cowboy up!”: Non-Hegemonic Representations of Masculinity in Children's Television Programming
Authors: Myers Kristen
Published: May 2012

Because children consume television as their identities are being formed, it is important to analyze the messages that are communicated to them through television programming. Entire television networks are marketed toward children from a very young age. Many series present male characters that are not hegemonically masculine. Potentially, non-hegemonic male characters could help disrupt the traditional gendered order by providing alternative, pro-feminist role models for young children. However, in my analysis of programming in four television series aimed at elementary school children (ages 5–11), I find that the non-hegemonic males actually helped reinscribe the dominance of hegemonic masculinity, ultimately reinforcing the traditional gendered order. Although children do not passively accept messages from television, these messages do shape larger gendered scripts that inform interactions.
“Looking for a Married Hookup”: An Examination of Personal Ads Posted by Men Seeking Sex with Married Men
Authors: Cheeseman Kelly , Goodlin-Fahncke Wendi , Tewksbury Richard
Published: May 2012

Bulletin board websites and the Internet have created new ways for individuals to find partners for casual sexual encounters through personal ads. This paper examines men who are seeking sexual encounters with married men through placement of a “men seeking men” personal ad found on a free, non-sexual, large mainstream bulletin board classified website. Three thousand advertisements were analyzed to reveal themes among advertisements including items such as marital status, sexual act desired, sexual roles desired, whether or not individuals were seeking safe sex encounters, race and age. The results (based on descriptive statistics) reveal that men who are seeking sexual encounters with married men are more likely to be married themselves, open to a variety of types of sexual encounters, are most often looking for safe sex and are more likely to report that they are drug and disease free.
“Say it, Don't Do It”: Male Speech and Male Action in Saturday Night and Sunday Morning
Authors: Lewis Daniel
Published: May 2012

Alan Sillitoe's 1958 novel Saturday Night and Sunday Morning explores shifting masculine roles for working and middle-class men in England following the Second World War and the Korean War. I propose a reading of Sillitoe's novel that focuses on the abilities and the limits of male speech in the construction of a working-class masculine gender identity, including how those utterances work to establish differences and similarities. Furthermore, I argue that male speech creates and complicates hierarchical relationships between men and women in the novel. Taking into account the relative economic affluence in England following World War II, I also look at how these economic and social issues influenced changing working-class masculine ideals and responsibilities in England at that time.
Characteristics of ocean waters reaching Greenland's glaciers
Authors: Straneo Fiammetta , Sutherland David A. , Holland David , Gladish Carl , Hamilton Gordon S. , Johnson Helen L. , Rignot Eric , Xu Yun , Koppes Michele
Published: May 2012

Interaction of Greenland’s marine-terminating glaciers with the ocean has emerged as a key term in the ice-sheet mass balance and a plausible trigger for their recent acceleration. Our knowledge of the dynamics, however, is limited by scarcity of ocean measurements at the glacier/ocean boundary. Here data collected near six marine-terminating glaciers (79 North, Kangerdlugssuaq, Helheim and Petermann glaciers, Jakobshavn Isbræ, and the combined Sermeq Kujatdleq and Akangnardleq) are compared to investigate the water masses and the circulation at the ice/ocean boundary. Polar Water, of Arctic origin, and Atlantic Water, from the subtropical North Atlantic, are found near all the glaciers. Property analysis indicates melting by Atlantic Water (AW; found at the grounding line depth near all the glaciers) and the influence of subglacial discharge at depth in summer. AW temperatures near the glaciers range from 4.5˚C in the southeast, to 0.16˚C in northwest Greenland, consistent with the distance from the subtropical North Atlantic and cooling across the continental shelf. A review of its offshore variability suggests that AW temperature changes in the fjords will be largest in southern and smallest in northwest Greenland, consistent with the regional distribution of the recent glacier acceleration.
Dynamic instability of marine-terminating glacier basins of Academy of Sciences Ice Cap, Russian High Arctic
Authors: Moholdt Geir , Heid Torborg , Benham Toby , Dowdeswell Julian A.
Published: May 2012

Ice sheets and smaller ice caps appear to behave in dynamically similar ways; both contain slow-moving ice that is probably frozen to the bed, interspersed with fast-flowing ice streams and outlet glaciers that terminate into the ocean. Academy of Sciences Ice Cap (Akademii Nauk ice cap; 5570 km2), Severnaya Zemlya, Russian High Arctic, provides a clear example of this varied flow regime. We have combined satellite measurements of elevation change and surface velocity to show that variable ice-stream dynamics dominate the mass balance of the ice cap. Since 1988, the ice cap has lost 58±16 Gt of ice, corresponding to ~3% of its mass or 0.16mm of sea-level rise. The climatic mass balance is estimated to be close to zero, and terminus positions have remained stable to within a few kilometers, implying that almost all mass loss has occurred through iceberg calving. The ice-cap calving rate increased from ~0.6 Gt a–1 in 1995 to ~3.0 Gt a–1 in 2000–02, but has recently decreased to ~1.4 Gt a–1 due to a likely slowdown of the largest ice stream. Such highly variable calving rates have not been reported before from High Arctic ice caps, suggesting that these ice masses may be less stable than previously thought.
Imaginary Cubes and Their Puzzles
Authors: Tsuiki Hideki
Published: May 2012

Imaginary cubes are three dimensional objects which have square silhouette projections in three orthogonal ways just as a cube has. In this paper, we study imaginary cubes and present assembly puzzles based on them. We show that there are 16 equivalence classes of minimal convex imaginary cubes, among whose representatives are a hexagonal bipyramid imaginary cube and a triangular antiprism imaginary cube. Our main puzzle is to put three of the former and six of the latter pieces into a cube-box with an edge length of twice the size of the original cube. Solutions of this puzzle are based on remarkable properties of these two imaginary cubes, in particular, the possibility of tiling 3D Euclidean space.
Developing a Real Time Sensing System to Monitor Bacteria in Wound Dressings
Authors: Farrow Malcolm J. , Hunter Iain S. , Connolly Patricia
Published: May 2012

Infection control is a key aspect of wound management strategies. Infection results in chemical imbalances and inflammation in the wound and may lead to prolonged healing times and degradation of the wound surface. Frequent changing of wound dressings may result in damage to healing tissues and an increased risk of infection. This paper presents the first results from a monitoring system that is being developed to detect presence and growth of bacteria in real time. It is based on impedance sensors that could be placed at the wound-dressing interface and potentially monitor bacterial growth in real time. As wounds can produce large volumes of exudate, the initial system reported here was developed to test for the presence of bacteria in suspension. Impedance was measured using disposable silver-silver chloride electrodes. The bacteria Staphylococcus aureus were chosen for the study as a species commonly isolated from wounds. The growth of bacteria was confirmed by plate counting methods and the impedance data were analysed for discernible differences in the impedance profiles to distinguish the absence and/or presence of bacteria. The main findings were that the impedance profiles obtained by silver-silver chloride sensors in bacterial suspensions could detect the presence of high cell densities. However, the presence of the silver-silver chloride electrodes tended to inhibit the growth of bacteria. These results indicate that there is potential to create a real time infection monitor for wounds based upon impedance sensing.
Impact of Vibration Time on Compressive Strength of Hardened Sandcrete Building Blocks
Authors: Omoregie Alohan
Published: May 2012

The majority of the sandcrete blocks used in the Nigerian building industry fall short of the minimum specification standards. There is evidence to suggest a wide variation in compressive strength from one block manufacturer to another and also within block samples from a single source. This problem has been attributed to poor quality control and substandard constituent materials. Also very alarming is the ignorance surrounding the usage and engineering properties of some of the widely used fine aggregate deposits. As a way forward, this paper aims to re-establish the impact of vibration time in sandcrete block production using six fine aggregate deposits found within Benin City (Midwestern Nigeria) and their various pair combinations. Some of the basic properties like silt content, grading parameters—co-efficient of uniformity (Cu), curvature co-efficient (Cc) and the fineness modulus (Fm)—of these fine aggregates were established by laboratory means. In addition, the wet and dry compressive strength of these sandcrete blocks made from these sands were established. A total of 1,080 block samples produced under very controlled conditions were used in this investigation. It was revealed that the utility value of sand can be improved when the weaker and commonly used sands were combined with those that are better, more expensive and less frequently used at different vibration periods and ratios. Findings further revealed that sand types and the sand combination approach adopted were very significant to grading parameters and strength; at a much higher vibration time the compressive strength and durability properties were also considerably improved.
Synthesis and Properties of 2-Alkylidene-1,3-dithiolo[4,5-d]-4,5-ethylenediselenotetrathiafulvalene Derivatives and Crystal Structures of Their Cation Radical Salts
Authors: Furuta Keisuke , Kohno Shuhei , Shirahata Takashi , Yamasaki Koya , Hino Shojun , Misaki Yohji
Published: May 2012

Tetrathiafulvalene derivatives condensed with 2-alkylidene-1,3-dithiole moiety, MeDTES (2-isopropylidene-1,3-dithiolo[4,5-d]-4,5-ethylenediselenotetrathiafulvalene), EtDTES (2-(pentan-3-ylidene)-1,3-dithiolo[4,5-d]-4,5-ethylenediselenotetrathiafulvalene), and CPDTES (2-cyclopentanylidene-1,3-dithiolo[4,5-d]-4,5-ethylenediselenotetrathiafulvalene) have been synthesized. Crystal structure analysis of MeDTES salts with Au(CN)4−, ReO4−, and I3− and a CPDTES salt with I3− reveals that the donor−anion ratios of all salts are 1:1. Band calculation of (MeDTES)[Au(CN)4] suggests a quasi-one-dimensional Fermi surface that could be the result of the uniform stack of donor molecules. In spite of this stacking, the salt is a Mott insulator because of a large on-site Coulomb interaction U. (MeDTES)(ReO4)(H2O)0.5 possesses Fermi points and exhibits semiconducting behavior with small activation energy (Ea = 0.058 eV). I3− ions form disordered infinite chain in (MeDTES)(I3)(DCE)0.25, but those in (CPDTES)(I3) exist as discrete ions. They show low conductivity (10−4−10−2 S cm−1) at room temperature and the band calculation suggests that they are band insulator.
Is Early Puberty Triggered by Catch-Up Growth Following Undernutrition?
Authors: Proos Lemm , Gustafsson Jan
Published: May 2012

Undernutrition during fetal and postnatal life is still a major problem in many low- and middle-income countries. Even in high-income countries malnutrition may exist in cases of intrauterine growth retardation, as well as in chronic conditions such as anorexia nervosa and inflammatory bowel disease. Children adopted from developing countries are often chronically malnourished. Nutritional rehabilitation, resulting in catch-up growth, is often complicated by influences originating in fetal life as well as during postnatal growth. This may result in hormonal and metabolic changes as well as alterations in pubertal development. The present review focuses on fetal, postnatal and fetal-postnatal undernutrition and subsequent catch-up growth as well as catch-up growth in relation to pubertal development. Catch-up growth in children can be associated with early puberty following fetal or combined fetal-postnatal undernutrition. However, early puberty does not seem to occur following catch-up growth after isolated postnatal undernutrition. Gonadotropins have been reported to be elevated in prepubertal adopted girls as well as during catch-up growth in animals. Even if other factors may contribute, linear catch-up growth seems to be associated with the timing of pubertal development. The mechanisms behind this are still unknown. Future research may elucidate how to carry out nutritional rehabilitation without risk for early pubertal development.
Dextran and Polymer Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) Coating Reduce Both 5 and 30 nm Iron Oxide Nanoparticle Cytotoxicity in 2D and 3D Cell Culture
Authors: Yu Miao , Huang Shaohui , Yu Kevin Jun , Clyne Alisa Morss
Published: May 2012

Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles are widely used in biomedical applications, yet questions remain regarding the effect of nanoparticle size and coating on nanoparticle cytotoxicity. In this study, porcine aortic endothelial cells were exposed to 5 and 30 nm diameter iron oxide nanoparticles coated with either the polysaccharide, dextran, or the polymer polyethylene glycol (PEG). Nanoparticle uptake, cytotoxicity, reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation, and cell morphology changes were measured. Endothelial cells took up nanoparticles of all sizes and coatings in a dose dependent manner, and intracellular nanoparticles remained clustered in cytoplasmic vacuoles. Bare nanoparticles in both sizes induced a more than 6 fold increase in cell death at the highest concentration (0.5 mg/mL) and led to significant cell elongation, whereas cell viability and morphology remained constant with coated nanoparticles. While bare 30 nm nanoparticles induced significant ROS formation, neither 5 nm nanoparticles (bare or coated) nor 30 nm coated nanoparticles changed ROS levels. Furthermore, nanoparticles were more toxic at lower concentrations when cells were cultured within 3D gels. These results indicate that both dextran and PEG coatings reduce nanoparticle cytotoxicity, however different mechanisms may be important for different size nanoparticles.
Screening of New Microsatellite DNA Markers from the Genome of Platyeriocheir formosa
Authors: Cheng Hui-Ling , Lee Yan-Horn , Hsiung Dai-Shion , Tseng Mei-Chen
Published: May 2012

The catadromous Platyeriocheir formosa is a crab endemic in Taiwan. To conserve P. formosa population diversity and ensure the sustainable use of this natural resource, we have developed new genetic markers, 17 polymorphic microsatellite loci, to promote the study of its population genetics in the future. In this study, more than 70 microsatellite sequences were found. Among these, 18 loci were selected to analyze the genetic diversity of P. formosa. With the exception of the Pfo15 locus, all of the remaining loci were polymorphic with allelic numbers ranging from 3–14. Heterozygosity within all 17 polymorphic loci ranged from 0.2–0.95 with an average of 0.55, which suggested that these loci are proper markers for studying population genetics. After we tested cross-specific amplification, eight and six primer sets could be successfully used for the amplification of microsatellite loci in morphologically similar Eriocheir sinensis and E. japonica, respectively; this suggests that they are useful markers for closely related species.
FG020326 Sensitized Multidrug Resistant Cancer Cells to Docetaxel-Mediated Apoptosis via Enhancement of Caspases Activation
Authors: Wang Xiu-Wen , Wang Xiao-Kun , Zhang Xu , Liang Yong-Ju , Shi Zhi , Chen Li-Ming , Fu Li-Wu
Published: May 2012

Apoptotic resistance is the main obstacle for treating cancer patients with chemotherapeutic drugs. Multidrug resistance (MDR) is often characterized by the expression of P-glycoprotein (P-gp), a 170-KD ATP-dependent drug efflux protein. Functional P-gp can confer resistance to activate caspase-8 and -3 dependent apoptosis induced by a range of different stimuli, including tumor necrosis and chemotherapeutic drugs such as docetaxel and vincristine. We demonstrated here that comparison of sensitive KB cells, P-gp positive (P-gp+ve) KBv200 cells were extremely resistant to apoptosis induced by docetaxel. FG020326, a pharmacological inhibitor of P-gp function, could enhance concentration-dependently the effect of docetaxel on cell apoptosis and sensitize caspase-8, -9 and -3 activation in P-gp overexpressing KBv200 cells, but not in KB cells. Therefore, the enhancement of caspase-8, -9 and -3 activation induced by docetaxel may be one of the key mechanisms of the reversal of P-gp mediated docetaxel resistance by FG020326.
Solid-Phase Parallel Synthesis of Drug-Like Artificial 2H-Benzopyran Libraries
Authors: Lee Taeho , Gong Young-Dae
Published: May 2012

This review covers the construction of drug-like 2H-benzopyrans and related libraries using solid-phase parallel synthesis. In this context, the preparation of substituted benzopyrans such as mono-, di- and trisubstituted benzopyran derivatives and additional ring-fused benzopyrans such as benzopyranoisoxazoles, benzopyranopyrazoles, six-membered ring-fused benzopyrans, and polycyclic benzopyrans are highlighted.
Saponins with Neuroprotective Effects from the Roots of Pulsatilla cernua
Authors: Liu Jian-Yu , Guan Ying-Li , Zou Li-Bo , Gong Yi-Xia , Hua Hui-Ming , Xu Yong-Nan , Zhang Hui , Yu Zong-Gui , Fan Wen-Hao
Published: May 2012

Four new oleanene-type triterpenoid saponins together with six known saponins were isolated from the roots of Pulsatilla cernua and their structures were elucidated on the basis of spectroscopic data, including 2D NMR spectra and chemical evidence. Among these one of the aglycones (gypsogenin) is reported for the first time from this genus. Some of these compounds showed significant neuroprotective effects against the cytotoxicity induced by β-amyloid25–35 (Aβ25–35) on human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells.
Two New Aryltetralin Lignans from the Roots of Dolomiaea souliei
Authors: Wei Hua , He Chunnian , Peng Yong , Zhang Sen , Chen Xiaoguang , Xiao Peigen
Published: May 2012

Two new aryltetralin-type lignans, dolomiaeasin A (1) and dolomiaeasin B (2), were isolated from the roots of Dolomiaea souliei. Their structures were elucidated by means of various spectroscopic analyses. The cytotoxicities of 1 and 2 were tested by the MTT method, and both compounds showed no significant cytotoxic activities against the A549 and A2780 human cancer cell lines. This is the first time that aryltetralin-type lignans were isolated from the genus Dolomiaea.
Synthesis and Characterization of Some New C2 Symmetric Chiral Bisamide Ligands Derived from Chiral Feist’s Acid
Authors: Al Majid Abdullah M. A. , Islam Mohammad Shahidul , Al-Othman Zeid , Al-Salhoob Ahlam F. , Barakat Assem
Published: May 2012

The hemilabile chiral C2 symmetrical bidentate substituted amide ligands (1R,2R)-5a-d and (1S,2S)-6a-d were synthesized in quantitative yield from (1R,2R)-(+)-3-methylenecyclo-propane-1,2-dicarboxylic acid (1R,2R)-3 and (1S,2S)-(-)-3-methylene-cyclopropane-1,2-dicarboxylic acid (1S,2S)-3, in two steps, respectively. The chiral Feist’s acids (1R,2R)-3 and (1S,2S)-3 were obtained in good isomeric purity by resolution of trans-(±)-3-methylene-cyclopropane-1,2-dicarboxylic acid from an 8:2 mixture of tert-butanol and water, using (R)-(+)-α-methylbenzyl amine as a chiral reagent. This process is reproducible on a large scale. All these new synthesized chiral ligands were characterized by 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR, IR, and mass spectrometry, as well as elemental analysis and their specific rotations were measured. These new classes of C2 symmetric chiral bisamide ligands could be of special interest in asymmetric transformations.
The masculine foundation of business education: France and Norway in comparison (1870s-1940s)
Authors: Larsen Eirinn
Published: May 2012

Résumé À l’initiative de communautés d’affaires locales, des écoles de haut enseignement commercial ont émergé en France et en Norvège à la fin du XIX e siècle. Loin de répondre à une demande du marché ou à des besoins de connaissances nouvelles, ces écoles ont été établies comme un moyen de fournir une identité professionnelle et un statut social à de futurs hommes d’affaires. Cependant les réformes de l’enseignement en faveur des filles des classes moyennes ainsi que la demande croissante pour le travail des femmes représentaient une menace pour cette construction culturelle, en rendant explicite la logique sexiste de ces écoles de gestion. Par crainte des effets potentiels de dévalorisation de cette féminisation, les femmes restèrent exclues de ces écoles et des trajectoires de formation différentes se développèrent en conséquence
Impact du péage urbain sur la répartition modale et la structure temporelle du trafic automobile
Authors: Mirabel François
Published: May 2012

Résumé Le papier que nous présentons s’inscrit dans la lignée du modèle de T. TABUCHI (1993). Il étudie simultanément les comportements des individus en termes de choix d’horaire et de choix modal pour les déplacements domicile-travail ; il se démarque toutefois de son analyse en prenant comme référence les coûts liés au temps pour éclairer les comportements individuels de déplacement. Dans ce cadre, et dans la lignée des travaux de H. MOHRING (1972), on montre qu’à long terme, le coût subi par les passagers des transports en commun n’est plus constant et dépend directement du nombre d’utilisateurs. Nous montrons alors l’efficacité, pour la collectivité, d’une tarification de l’usage des infrastructures routières urbaines.
L'expérience technopolitaine de Hsinchu à Taiwan : un pôle de croissance en transition vers un district industriel ?
Authors: Paulmier Thierry
Published: May 2012

Résumé À travers l’expérience technopolitaine du Parc de Hsinchu à Taiwan, cet article soulève la question d’une possible transition d’un pôle de croissance vers un district industriel. Étant un produit artificiel de l’intervention publique et non un produit de l’histoire comme le district industriel, le technopôle n’est pas supposé constituer une entité socio-territoriale reposant sur une communauté de valeurs. Mais dans le contexte socioculturel d’une société traditionnelle et holiste comme la société chinoise, plusieurs caractéristiques de l’organisation du technopôle de Hsinchu laissent à penser qu’une transition vers un district industriel est possible.
La configuration des réseaux d'innovation : une approche par la proximité des acteurs
Authors: Loilier Thomas , Tellier Albéric
Published: May 2012

Résumé L’objectif de cet article est d’élaborer une typologie des réseaux fondée sur les notions de proximités géographique et électronique. Cette classification est ensuite confrontée au terrain au moyen d’une approche quantitative s’appuyant sur un échantillon de 77 projets de développement de produits nouveaux dans l’industrie française. Enfin, les rôles respectifs des deux proximités sont analysés à l’aide d’indicateurs habituellement utilisés en gestion de projet.
Impact économique régional d'un pôle universitaire : application au cas Strasbourgeois
Authors: Gagnol Laurent , Héraud Jean-Alain
Published: May 2012

Résumé Cet article analyse les résultats d’une étude de l’impact économique d’un pôle universitaire sur son territoire local. L’université est, en effet, une structure consommatrice directe de biens et services, pouvant induire un impact significatif sur l’économie locale. Son impact direct concerne également la localisation d’un certain nombre de salariés et d’étudiants, eux-mêmes acteurs économiques à part entière. Enfin, de par sa vocation d’enseignement et de recherche, l’Université agit comme un moteur du développement local, puisqu’elle pourvoit à l’amélioration du « capital humain » et agit ainsi comme une force attractive pour toute une catégorie d’entreprises à la recherche de compétences universitaires. Outre les résultats obtenus (représentatifs d’un grand site universitaire régional), cet article évoque les questions méthodologiques liées à ce type d’évaluation économique.
Comparaison des politiques de l'eau en matière de pollution industrielle en France et en Allemagne
Authors: Castay Valérie , Destandau François , Klein Michael , Point Patrick
Published: May 2012

Résumé La France et l’Allemagne ont développé leur propre politique de régulation de la pollution des eaux, qui combine plus ou moins étroitement instruments économiques et normes. En effet, des traditions d’organisation ainsi que des différences démographiques et géographiques ont conduit à des modes de régulation différents. Dans ce papier, on se propose de décrire ces deux systèmes. Puis on compare dans un cas particulier la charge financière associée à ces politiques qu’une firme supporterait en France et en Allemagne. On conclut que le système allemand procure davantage d’incitations à réduire la pollution.
Districts industriels et territorialisation du rapport salarial : un éclairage à partir des réalités vénétiennes
Authors: Perrat Jacques
Published: May 2012

Résumé Des observations de terrain menées en Vénétie mettent en lumière les principaux facteurs de réussite des districts industriels italiens, mais aussi les facteurs de leur fragilisation. Il en ressort des enseignements quant aux limites de la notion de district industriel, mais aussi quant à ses capacités méthodologiques à exprimer certains aspects de la réalité, et plus particulièrement la spécificité de l’articulation rapport salarial/construction de territoire. Des pistes peuvent ainsi être dégagées pour une meilleure appréhension de ces questions dans le contexte français.
Compétition territoriale : un modèle de différenciation spatiale
Authors: Philippe-Dussine Marie-Pierre
Published: May 2012

Résumé Cet article propose tout d’abord d’analyser la compétition territoriale à travers un modèle de différenciation spatiale tel que celui de HOTELLING. Il montre alors que le principe de différenciation minimale est bien loin d’être vérifié dans un tel jeu. Au contraire, en matière de compétition interrégionale, la différenciation paie. Elle peut même conduire à un équilibre. Mais elle n’est pas seulement à rechercher dans des stratégies de prix. L’intégration d’autres variables, et en particulier la capacité à communiquer, peut en effet considérablement enrichir le jeu, voir même limiter sensiblement la portée de la concurrence fiscale.