bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative study on the in vitro and in vivo properties of two bovine herpesvirus-5 reference strains
Authors: Ladelfa María F , Del Médico Zajac María P , Kotsias Fiorella , Delgado Fernando , Muylkens Benoît , Thiry Julien , Thiry Etienne , Romera Sonia A
Published: June 2011

Background

Bovine herpesvirus 5 (BoHV-5) is an alphaherpesvirus responsible for meningoencephalitis in young cattle and it is antigenically and genetically related to bovine herpesvirus 1. BoHV-5 outbreaks are sporadic and restricted in their geographical distribution, being mostly detected in the Southern hemisphere. The N569 and A663 strains are prototypes of the "a" and "b" subtypes of BoHV-5, however, scarce information about theirin vitroandin vivoproperties is currently available.

Methods

For thein vitrocomparison between BoHV-5 A663 and N569 strains, viral growth kinetics, lysis and infection plaque size assays were performed. Additionally, an experimental infection of cattle with BoHV-5 A663 and N569 strains was carried out. Viral excretion, development of neurological signs, presence of specific antibodies in serum and nasal swabs and presence of latent BoHV-5 DNA in trigeminal ganglion, were analyzed. Histopathological examination of samples belonging to inoculated animals was also performed.

Results

The lytic capacity and the cell-to-cell spread was lower for the A663 strain compared to the N569 strain, however, the production of total infectious viral particles was similar between both strains. Concerning thein vivoproperties, the A663 and N569 strains are able to induce similar degrees of pathogenicity in cattle.

Conclusions

Our results show that the A663 strain used in this study is less adapted toin vitroreplication in MDBK cells than the N569 strain and, although slight differences were observed, both strains are able to induce a similar degree of virulence in the natural host.
Pain persists in DAS28 rheumatoid arthritis remission but not in ACR/EULAR remission: a longitudinal observational study
Authors: Lee Yvonne C , Cui Jing , Lu Bing , Frits Michelle L , Iannaccone Christine K , Shadick Nancy A , Weinblatt Michael E , Solomon Daniel H
Published: June 2011

Introduction

Disease remission has become a feasible goal for most rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients; however, patient-reported symptoms, such as pain, may persist despite remission. We assessed the prevalence of pain in RA patients in remission according to the Disease Activity Score (DAS28-CRP4) and the American College of Rheumatology/European League Against Rheumatism (ACR/EULAR) remission criteria.

Methods

Data were analyzed from RA patients in the Brigham Rheumatoid Arthritis Sequential Study with data at baseline and 1 year. DAS28 remission was defined as DAS28-CRP4 <2.6. The ACR/EULAR remission criteria included (a) one or more swollen joints, (b) one or more tender joints, (c) C-reactive protein ≤1 mg/dl, and (d) patient global assessment score ≤1. Pain severity was measured by using the pain score from the Multi-Dimensional Health Assessment Questionnaire (MDHAQ). The associations between baseline clinical predictors and MDHAQ pain at baseline and 1 year were assessed by using multivariable linear regression.

Results

Among the 865 patients with data at baseline and 1 year, 157 (18.2%) met DAS28-CRP4 remission criteria at both time points. Thirty-seven (4.3%) met the ACR/EULAR remission criteria at baseline and 1 year. The prevalence of clinically significant pain (MDHAQ pain ≥4) at baseline ranged from 11.9% among patients meeting DAS28-CRP4 remission criteria to none among patients meeting ACR/EULAR remission criteria. Patient global assessment, MDHAQ function, MDHAQ fatigue, MDHAQ sleep, and arthritis self-efficacy were significantly associated with MDHAQ pain in cross-sectional (P ≤ 0.0005) and longitudinal analyses (P ≤ 0.03). Low swollen-joint counts were associated with high MDHAQ pain in longitudinal analyses (P = 0.02) but not cross-sectional analyses. Other measures of inflammatory disease activity and joint damage were not significantly associated with MDHAQ pain at baseline or at 1 year.

Conclusions

Clinically significant pain continues among a substantial proportion of patients in DAS28 remission but not among those in ACR/EULAR remission. Among patients in DAS28 remission, patient global assessment, disability, fatigue, sleep problems, and self-efficacy are strongly associated with pain severity at baseline and 1 year, whereas inflammatory disease activity and joint damage are not significantly associated with elevated pain severity at either baseline or 1 year.
Travel and pregnancy: an infectious diseases perspective
Authors: Kanhutu Kudzai , Torda Adrienne
Published: June 2011

Increasing numbers of women are choosing to travel during pregnancy. In the presence of an altered immune state, exposure to certain microbes can be particularly harmful. We have undertaken a review of the literature in order to provide strategies to minimize the infectious disease risks of pregnant travel. Included is a discussion of common immunizing agents and their safety in pregnancy.
Product Variety and Capacity Investments in Congested Production Systems
Authors: Chayet Sergio , Kouvelis Panos , Yu Dennis Z.
Published: June 2011

We investigate a firm's product line design and capacity investment problem for vertically differentiated products along design quality levels. Customers arrive according to a Poisson process and are heterogeneous in their marginal valuation of the quality level. Customers make product choices to maximize a linear utility function of price, quality level, and waiting cost. Resulting product demands are met through capacity investments in production processes, which are modeled as queuing systems. We consider two different types of production processes: product-focused, dedicated to the production of a single-product variant; and product-flexible, processing all product variants in the product line. Capacity investment and variable production costs are functions of the processed product's quality. We develop an integrated marketing-operations model that provides insights on the factors determining the right level of product variety to offer, the relative quality positioning of the products in the line, the resulting market coverage and segmentation, and the effects on production costs and congestion levels of the processes. We show that the statistical economies of scale resulting from the congestion phenomena in the production system impose limits on the optimal product variety. For product-focused processes the market size promotes a higher optimal product variety, whereas the per-unit capacity investment and customer waiting costs act as deterrents for higher product variety. For product-flexible processes optimal product variety also depends on the specific type of flexibility and the ratio of capacity investment to variable production costs.
Surface and volume characterization of TiO2 nanomaterials by 44Ti time differential perturbed angular correlation
Authors: Butz T.
Published: June 2011

Various TiO2 nanomaterials with primary particle sizes well below 10 nm and TiO2 nanotubes with the anatase structure were studied via the nuclear quadrupole interaction (NQI) of44Ti(EC)44Sc by time differential perturbed angular correlation. In general two different NQIs were observed, the lower one attributed to the volume fraction because of the similarity to bulk values and the higher one to probes closest to the surface. Rather broad distributions of the strength of the interaction were observed which were different for nominally identical particles, contrary to the axial symmetry which is preserved to a very large extent. These distributions are interpreted as disorder arising from surface tension. These complications affect the interaction between these nanomaterials with biological systems and the environment and render toxicological assessments problematic. Dissolution studies in a synthetic body fluid mimicking blood plasma at 37 ºC for 4 weeks exhibited a very low solubility, but surprisingly slight changes in the volume fraction, probably due to surface adsorbates.
Spectroscopic monitoring of spent nuclear fuel reprocessing streams: an evaluation of spent fuel solutionsviaRaman, visible, and near-infrared spectroscopy
Authors: Bryan S. A. , Levitskaia Tatiana G. , Johnsen A. M. , Orton C. R. , Peterson J. M.
Published: June 2011

The potential of using optical spectroscopic techniques, such as Raman and visible/near infrared (Vis/NIR), for on-line process control and special nuclear materials accountability applications at a spent nuclear fuel reprocessing facility was evaluated. The availability of on-line, real-time techniques that directly measure process concentrations of nuclear materials will enhance the performance and proliferation resistance of the solvent extraction processes. Further, on-line monitoring of radiochemical streams will also improve reprocessing plant operation and safety. This paper reviews the current state of development of the spectroscopic on-line monitoring techniques for such solutions. To further examine the applicability of optical spectroscopy for this application, segments of a spent nuclear fuel, with approximate burn-up values of 70 MW d/kg M, were dissolved in concentrated nitric acid and adjusted to varying final concentrations of HNO3. The resulting spent fuel solutions were batch-contacted with tributyl phosphate/n-dodecane organic solvent. The feed and equilibrium aqueous and loaded organic solutions were subjected to optical measurements. The obtained spectra showed the presence of quantifiable Raman bands due to NO3−and UO22+and Vis/NIR bands due to multiple species of Pu(IV), Pu(VI), Np(V), the Np(V)-U(VI) cation–cation complex, and Nd(III) in fuel solutions. This result justifies spectroscopic techniques as a promising methodology for monitoring spent fuel processing solutions in real-time. The fuel solution was quantitatively evaluated based on spectroscopic measurements and was compared to inductively coupled plasma-mass spectroscopy analysis and Oak Ridge Isotope Generator (ORIGEN)-based estimates.
Structure and properties of a multi-component crystal of 2,3-dihydro-1,3-benzothiazol-2-iminium and an [MnIII
4] complex salt
Authors: Hołyńska Małgorzata , Dehnen Stefanie
Published: June 2011

A two-component salt containing an [MnIII
4O2(OAc)7(phen)2]+ (OAc-0 = acetate, phen = 1,10-phenanthroline) cation, a 2,3-dihydro-1,3-benzothiazol-2-iminium cation, acetate anions and acetic acid molecules was synthesized and characterized. The presence of protonated 4-aminobenzothiazol causes structure directing intermolecular stacking and hydrogen bonds.
Análise da estrutura de duas unidades fitofisionômicas de savana (cerrado) no sul do Brasil
Authors: Uhlmann Alexandre , Galvão Franklin , Silva Sandro Menezes
Published: June 2011

A região de Jaguariaíva. situada no Estado do Paraná, sul do Brasil, abriga os últimos remanescentes de savana no Estado e pode ser considerada como marco do limite meridional de distribuição deste tipo de vegetação no Brasil. O Parque Estadual do Cerrado (24º09" S; 50º18' WG) foi objeto deste estudo em que se analisou a estrutura da vegetação de duas fornias fisionômicas de savana, o campo cerrado e o cerrado sensu stricto. Estas duas formas são predominantes na área do Parque, ainda que este não seja coberto exclusivamente por vegetação savânica. Vinte parcelas com dimensões de 200m² (20 X 10m) foram alocadas sistematicamente em cada unidade fisionômica, onde todo indivíduo com perímetro basal (PB) igual ou maior a 15cm foi amostrado. Os resultados do levantamento apontaram para pequeno número de espécies lenhosas em ambos os tipos fisionômicos (33 espécies no cerrado sensu stricto e 18 no campo cerrado). As espécies mais importantes foram virtualmente as mesmas em ambas as formas fisionômicas, destacando-se Byrsonima coccolobifolia. Acosníium subelegans. Couepia grandiflora e Stryphnodendron adstringens. A densidade total, dominância total e diversidade foram mais elevadas no cerrado sensu stricto. Além disso, ficou aparente a maior semelhança florística com as savanas de São Paulo, especialmente aquelas situadas ao sul deste Estado.
Hospitalization of the Elderly in the United States for Nonspecific Gastrointestinal Diseases: A Search for Etiological Clues
Authors: Chui Kenneth K. H. , Jagai Jyotsna S. , Griffiths Jeffrey K. , Naumova Elena N.
Published: June 2011

The frequency of hospitalization among the elderly in the United States caused by gastrointestinal diseases between 1991 and 2004 increased dramatically, especially hospitalization of elderly individuals with nonspecific diagnoses. We analyzed 6 640 304 gastrointestinal disease–associated hospitalization records in this 14-year period by comparing the peak times of nonspecific gastrointestinal diseases with those of specific diseases. We found that most nonspecific gastrointestinal diseases peak concurrently with viral enteritis, suggesting a lack of diagnostic testing for viruses, which may adversely affect the efficiency of prevention, surveillance, and treatment efforts.
Willow wood production on radionuclide polluted areas
Authors: Rodkin Oleg , Ivanukovic Vladimir , Pronko Svetlana , Kresova Elena
Published: June 2011

ABSTRACT: One of the key environmental problems in Belarus is effective use
of agricultural lands contaminated by radionuclide due to the Chernobyl
disaster. The alternative method to traditional agricultural crops is fast
growing willow cultivation. It is possible to use biomass of willow as
renewable energy source. The goal of our investigation was the estimation of
environmental aspects of willow wood production on polluted areas. The field
study experiments (2007-2010) were conducted at Krichev district of Mogilev
region in eastern Belarus. This region characterized by high level of Cs-137
contamination as well as high level of heavy metals pollution. In the first
stage of experiments, the concentration of cesium-137 in different parts of
willow biomass had been measured and transfer factor calculated. The
measuring had been done for leaves, roots, and wood. To control cesium-137
accumulation in willow biomass we apply different types (nitrogen N,
phosphorus P and potassium K) and dose of fertilizer. The experiments show
that potassium mineral fertilizer is the key factor for radionuclide
accumulation control. The optimal dose of potassium is 90 kg per hectare. On
the base of experimental results the model of cesium-137 accumulation in the
wood for a 21 year has been developed. In accordance with calculation to the
end of willow cultivation (21 year) concentration of cesium-137 in wood will
not be higher than permitted even with the level of cesium-137 contamination
in the soil 1480 kBq/m2 (maximum 140 kqB/m2 with permitted level for firewood
is 740 Bq/kg.). The concentration of cesium-137 in the roots increases
gradually and get maximum in 21 year (3000 kqB/m2). Our results confirm that
in the sum about 0.8 million hectares of radionuclide polluted arable lands
partly excluded from agricultural practice in Belarus could be used for
willow biomass production.
Massalongia olechiana (Massalongiaceae, Peltigerales), a new lichen species from the Antarctic
Authors: Alstrup Vagn , Søchting Ulrik
Published: June 2011

Massalongia olechiana (Massalongiaceae, Peltigerales), a new lichen species from the Antarctic

A new species of lichenized ascomycete, Massalongia olechiana Alstrup et Søchting, sp. nov. (Massalongiaceae) is described from the South Shetland Islands and the Antarctic Peninsula. The species is distinguished by laminal isidia and 5-7-septate ascospores. The relationships with the other species of the genus are discussed. From Massalongia carnosa, recorded from both the Arctic and the Antarctic, the new species is distinguished by its lack of isidioid squamules and in having pluriseptate ascospores instead of 1-septate ascospores.
Analysis of cultivable aerobic bacteria isolated from bottom sediments in the Wijdefjorden region, Spitsbergen
Authors: Konieczna Iwona , Wojtasik Barbara , Kwinkowski Marek , Burska Dorota , Nowiński Kamil , Żarnowiec Paulina , Kaca Wiesław
Published: June 2011

Analysis of cultivable aerobic bacteria isolated from bottom sediments in the Wijdefjorden region, Spitsbergen

The paper presents the first physicochemical and microbiological studies conducted in the northern area of Svalbard (Spitsbergen). Ten sediment samples were collected from the bottom of the longest fjord in the region, Wijdefjorden. Bottom sediments from ten lakes lo- cated along the shores of Wijdefjorden and Woodfjorden were also sampled. Organic matter content (LOI), water content, temperature, pH, and salinity of the sediments were determined. The quantity of aerobic bacteria cultured on various growth media at 4°C, 14°C, and 37°C ranged from 102to 106cfu/g of wet sediment mass, depending on the type of sampling station (fjord or lake). The number of bacteria did not correlate with organic matter content. Out of the 37 bacterial strains isolated from Wijdefjorden, 48% and 70% revealed ureolytic and proteolytic activity, respectively. The proportion of freshwater strains with ureolytic and proteolytic activitywas 32% and 55%, respectively. Antibiotic resistance testing indicated that bacterial strains from the bottom sediments of the lakes were resistant to 8 antibiotics (out of the 18 investigated). Possible sources of this resistance are discussed. Using 16S DNA analysis, bacterial isolates from the lakes were identified asPseudomonassp., whereas frequently occurring strains in bottom sediment of the fjord werePseudoalteromonassp.
Dynamic Performance of a Back-to-Back HVDC Station Based on Voltage Source Converters
Authors: Khatir Mohamed , Zidi Sid-Ahmed , Hadjeri Samir , Fellah Mohammed-Karim
Published: June 2011

Dynamic Performance of a Back-to-Back HVDC Station Based on Voltage Source Converters

The recent developments in semiconductors and control equipment have made the voltage source converter based high voltage direct current (VSC-HVDC) feasible. This new DC transmission is known as "HVDC Light or "HVDC Plus by leading vendors. Due to the use of VSC technology and pulse width modulation (PWM) the VSC-HVDC has a number of potential advantages as compared with classic HVDC. In this paper, the scenario of back-to-back VSC-HVDC link connecting two adjacent asynchronous AC networks is studied. Control strategy is implemented and its dynamic performances during disturbances are investigated in MATLAB/Simulink program. The simulation results have shown good performance of the proposed system under balanced and unbalanced fault conditions.
Approaches to Performance Analysis of Packed Switched Optical Ring
Authors: Lacković Marko
Published: June 2011

Approaches to Performance Analysis of Packed Switched Optical Ring

An optical ring network employing optical packet switching is investigated. An analytical approach allowing the computation of end-to-end cell loss ratio (CLR) is proposed. The CLR dependence on topological parameters (number of stations), network parameters (number of wavelengths), and node structure (buffer capacity) is computed assuming a uniform traffic load. A discrete event simulation confirms the analytical results.
Generalization of Patterns by Identification with Polynomial Neural Network
Authors: Zjavka Ladislav
Published: June 2011

Generalization of Patterns by Identification with Polynomial Neural Network

Artificial neural networks (ANN) in general classify patterns according to their relationship, they are responding to related patterns with a similar output. Polynomial neural networks (PNN) are capable of organizing themselves in response to some features (relations) of the data. Polynomial neural network for dependence of variables identification (D-PNN) describes a functional dependence of input variables (not entire patterns). It approximates a hyper-surface of this function with multi-parametric particular polynomials forming its functional output as a generalization of input patterns. This new type of neural network is based on GMDH polynomial neural network and was designed by author. D-PNN operates in a way closer to the brain learning as the ANN does. The ANN is in principle a simplified form of the PNN, where the combinations of input variables are missing.
Electrical Treeing Propagation in Nanocomposites and the Role of Nanofillers: Simulationwith the Aid of Cellular Automata
Authors: Pitsa Despoina , Vardakis George , Danikas Michael , Kozako Masahiro
Published: June 2011

Electrical Treeing Propagation in Nanocomposites and the Role of Nanofillers: Simulationwith the Aid of Cellular Automata

In this paper the propagation of electrical treeing in nanodielectrics using the DIMET (Dielectric Inhomogeneity Model for Electrical Treeing) is studied. The DIMET is a model which simulates the growth of electrical treeing based on theory of Cellular Automata. Epoxy/glass nanocomposites are used as samples between a needle-plane electrode arrangement. The diameter of nanofillers is 100 nm. The electric treeing, which starts from the needle electrode, is examined. The treeing growth seems to be stopped by the nanofillers. The latter act as elementary barriers to the treeing propagation.
Multicriteria Selection of Optimal Location of TCSC in a Competitive Energy Market
Authors: Alomoush Muwaffaq
Published: June 2011

Multicriteria Selection of Optimal Location of TCSC in a Competitive Energy Market

The paper investigates selection of the best location of thyristor-controlled series compensator (TCSC) in a transmission system from many candidate locations in a competitive energy market such that the TCSC causes a net valuable impact on congestion management outcome, transmission utilization, transmission losses, voltage stability, degree of fulfillment of spot market contracts, and system security. The problem is treated as a multicriteria decision-making process such that the candidate locations of TCSC are the alternatives and the conflicting objectives are the outcomes of the dispatch process, which may have different importance weights. The paper proposes some performance indices that the dispatch decision-making entity can use to measure market dispatch outcomes of each alternative. Based on agreed-upon preferences, the measures presented may help the decision maker compare and rank dispatch scenarios to ultimately decide which location is the optimal one. To solve the multicriteria decision, we use the preference ranking organization method for enrichment evaluations (PROMETHEE), which is a multicriteria decision support method that can handle complex conflicting-objective decision-making processes.
Raman Spectra of Two Samples of Rubrene Layers
Authors: Kadlečíková Magdaléna , Breza Juraj , Liday Jozef , Sitter Helmut , Al-Baqi Shaima
Published: June 2011

Raman Spectra of Two Samples of Rubrene Layers

This experimental work deals with measuring Raman spectra of rubrene. The objective is to optimize the measurement procedure of rubrene layers on a substrate. The main outcome of the work is identification of rubrene and of the single-crystalline nature of the measured spots of the rubrene layer.
Semiconducting Organic Molecular Materials
Authors: Filo Juraj , Putala Martin
Published: June 2011

Semiconducting Organic Molecular Materials

This feature article gives an overview of recent advances in development of high performance molecular organic semiconductors for field-effect transistors with emphasis on the structure of molecular materials and requirements for high-performance.
Measuring Static Parameters of Embedded ADC Core
Authors: Novak Franc , Mrak Peter , Biasizzo Anton
Published: June 2011

Measuring Static Parameters of Embedded ADC Core

The paper presents the results of a feasibility study of measuring static parameters of ADC cores embedded in a System-on-Chip. Histogram based technique is employed because it is suitable for built-in self-test. While the theoretical background of the technique has been covered by numerous papers, less attention has been given to implementations in practice. Our goal was the implementation of histogram test in a IEEE Std 1500 wrapper. Two different solutions pursuing either minimal test time or minimal hardware overhead are described. The impact of MOS switches at ADC input on the performed measurements was considered.
Identification of Nonlinear Cascade Systems with Time-Varying Backlash
Authors: Vörös Jozef
Published: June 2011

Identification of Nonlinear Cascade Systems with Time-Varying Backlash

Recursive identification of cascade systems with time-varying input backlash and linear dynamic system is presented. A new analytic form of backlash characteristic description is used, hence all the parameters in the cascade model equation are separated and their estimation is solved as a quasi-linear problem using the recursive least squares method with internal variable estimation. Simulation studies are included.
Epitaxial Growth of GaP/InxGa1-xP (xIn ≥ 0.27) Virtual Substrate for Optoelectronic Applications
Authors: Hasenöhrl Stanislav , Novák Jozef , Vávra Ivo , Šoltýs Ján , Kučera Michal , Šatka Alexander
Published: June 2011

Epitaxial Growth of GaP/InxGa1-xP (xIn ≥ 0.27) Virtual Substrate for Optoelectronic Applications

Compositionally graded epitaxial semiconductor buffer layers are prepared with the aim of using them as a virtual substrate for following growth of heterostructures with the lattice parameter different from that of the substrates available on market (GaAs, GaP, InP or InAs). In this paper we report on the preparation of the step graded InxGa1-xP buffer layers on the GaP substrate. The final InxGa1-xP composition xIn was chosen to be at least 0.27. At this composition the InxGa1-xP band-gap structure converts from the indirect to the direct one and the material of such composition is suitable for application in light emitting diode structures. Our task was to design a set of layers with graded composition (graded buffer layer) and to optimize growth parameters with the aim to prepare strain relaxed template of quality suitable for the subsequent epitaxial growth.
Determination of Particle Shape and Size Distribution of Model Types of Nanomaterials
Authors: Bretšnajdrová Edita , Svoboda Ladislav , Zelenka Jiří
Published: June 2011

Determination of Particle Shape and Size Distribution of Model Types of Nanomaterials

At present, great attention is given to study of preparation and properties of various nanomaterials usable in many applications. They are utilized in varied fields of human activity - eg in electronics, medicine, paint industry etc. Besides the detailed chemical structure, such nanoparticle properties as the shape and size distribution are fundamental to the given application. To measure these parameters various methods are used, e.g. transmission electron microscopy (TEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), acoustic spectrometry, methods based on the light scattering and X-ray disc centrifuge system.
Assessing of IDF curves for hydrological design by simple scaling of 1-day precipitation totals
Authors: Bara M. , Kohnová S. , Szolgay J. , Gaál L. , Hlavčová K.
Published: June 2011

Assessing of IDF curves for hydrological design by simple scaling of 1-day precipitation totals

In this paper the scaling properties of short term extreme rainfall in Slovakia were investigated. The simple scaling theory was applied to the intensity-duration-frequency (IDF) characteristics of a short duration rainfall. This method allows for the estimation of the design values of rainfall of selected recurrence intervals and durations shorter than a day by using only the daily data. The scaling behavior of rainfall intensities was examined, and the possibility of using simple scaling in Slovakia was verified. The methodology for the simple scaling of rainfall is demonstrated using an example of the meteorological station in Ilava.
Disturbing potential and its geometrical properties
Authors: Janák J. , Slovík S. , Fašková Z. , Mikula K.
Published: June 2011

Disturbing potential and its geometrical properties

Disturbing potential is probably the most crucial quantity in gravity field modelling. Usually, the disturbing potential is converted into a geoid height or height anomaly and presented as a contour map of a geoid or quasigeoid. In our contribution we present a spatial geometry of the equipotential surfaces of the disturbing potential around the Earth. The models presented are solutions of a mixed boundary value problem; they combine the Neumann and Dirichlet boundary conditions, and are solved using the Finite Element Method. The boundary values are generated from an EGM2008 geopotential model. However, the combination of the terrestrial measurement and the satellite gravity gradiometry-originated data can be used in the future. Therefore this work can be seen as a preliminary study before the exploitation of the actual gravity gradiometry data. The disturbing potential model is presented in the form of a 3D model up to an altitude of 20000 km above the Earth's surface.
Role of Plasma B-type Natriuretic Peptide in Diagnosing Heart Failure
Authors: Alam Mohammed Saiful , Haque DHMS Sirajul , Amin Md Nurul
Published: June 2011

Ibrahim Card Med J 2011; 1(1):36-40
A Multicentre Open-Label Safety and Efficacy Study of Tetrodotoxin for Cancer Pain
Authors: Hagen Neil , Lapointe B. , Ong-Lam M. , Dubuc B. , Walde D. , Gagnon B. , Love R. , Goel R. , Hawley P. , Ngoc A. Ho , du Souich P.
Published: June 2011

Background: Cancer pain is highly prevalent, and existing treatments are often insufficient to provide adequate relief. Objectives: We assessed the long-term safety and efficacy of subcutaneous tetrodotoxin treatment in reducing the intensity of chronic cancer-related pain. Methods: In this multicentre open-label longitudinal trial, 30 μg tetrodotoxin was administered subcutaneously twice daily for 4 days in a heterogeneous cohort of patients with persistent pain despite opioids and other analgesics. “Responder” was defined as a mean reduction of 30% or more in pain intensity from baseline; and “clinical responder” as some pain reduction, but less than 30%, plus agreement on the part of both the patient and the physician that a meaningful analgesic response to treatment had occurred. Results: Of 45 patients who entered the longitudinal trial, 41 had sufficient data for analysis. Of all 45 patients, 21 (47%) met the criteria for “responder” [16 patients (36%)] or “clinical responder” [5 patients (11%)]. Onset of pain relief was typically cumulative over days, and after administration ended, the analgesic effect subsided over the course of a few weeks. No evidence of loss of analgesic effect was observed during subsequent treatments (2526 patient–days in total and a maximum of 400 days in 1 patient). One patient withdrew from the study because of adverse events. Toxicity was usually mild (82%) or moderate (13%), and remained so through subsequent treatment cycles, with no evidence of cumulative toxicity or tolerance. Conclusions: Long-term treatment with tetrodotoxin is associated with acceptable toxicity and, in a substantial minority of patients, resulted in a sustained analgesic effect. Further study of tetrodotoxin for moderate-to-severe cancer pain is warranted.
Managing Treatment-Related Adverse Events Associated with egfr Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors in Advanced Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Hirsh V.
Published: June 2011

Non-small-cell lung cancer (nsclc) has the highest prevalence of all types of lung cancer, which is the second most common cancer and the leading cause of cancer-related mortality in Canada. The need for more effective and less toxic treatment options for nsclc has led to the development of agents targeting the epidermal growth factor receptor (egfr)–mediated signalling pathway, such as egfr tyrosine kinase inhibitors (egfr-tkis). Although egfr-tkis are less toxic than traditional anti-neoplastic agents, they are commonly associated with acneiform-like rash and diarrhea. This review summarizes the clinical presentation and causes of egfr-tki–induced rash and diarrhea, and presents strategies for effective assessment, monitoring, and treatment of these adverse effects. Strategies to improve the management of egfr-tki–related adverse events should improve clinical outcomes, compliance, and quality of life in patients with advanced nsclc.
Pan-Canadian Initiatives in Colorectal Cancer Screening: Adopting Knowledge Translation Tools to Accelerate Uptake and Impact
Authors: Bryant H.E. , Fekete S.V. , Major D.H.
Published: June 2011

Background: Despite the positive conclusions of several randomized controlled trials and the publication of national recommendations on colorectal cancer (crc) screening, uptake remained low. The inauguration of the National Colorectal Cancer Screening Network in 2007, the same year that the first screening program was announced in Canada, provided an opportunity for integrated knowledge translation to accelerate the processes of program implementation and screening uptake. Aim: Two primary aims were identified. The first focused on means to monitor the effects of various implementation plans in delivering high-quality population-based crc screening. The second focused on identifying and addressing knowledge gaps that may impair screening participation. Method: The methods used are described in the context of the knowledge-to-action cycle and demonstrate that the initiative itself dictates the point in the cycle at which to start. Results: The identified need to monitor various implementation plans resulted in the shared development of a quality determinants document. All programs committed to designing data collection so that core components could be measured and compared; 6 operating programs have conducted the first data collection, which will allow for monitoring and for new knowledge creation as the process develops further. The knowledge gap identification project started with new knowledge creation, which identified a higher-than-expected willingness of Canadians to discuss crc screening with physicians, but a low level of understanding of screening as a wellness-related behaviour. Knowledge translation interventions have been developed with the stakeholders to address those gaps, and ongoing surveys to be carried out later in 2011 will help to gauge progress in the understanding and acceptance of crc screening by the population. Conclusions: A national network that engaged all programs, policymakers, experts, and lay representatives successfully used knowledge translation principles to enhance the trajectory of crc screening in Canada.
L'Afrique noire comme paradigme fondateur des sciences sociales françaises et francophones du développement (1920-2010)
Authors: Copans Jean
Published: June 2011

Résumé Grâce à une périodisation en trois époques qui va de 1920 à 2010, il est rappelé que pour la France la question de la mise en valeur puis de la modernisation et du développement a été essentiellement appliquée dans les colonies africaines. Cette situation explique que le champ des recherches appliquées puis fondamentales (empiriques et théoriques) en sciences sociales se soit cantonné, de fait, à ce seul espace géopolitique, malgré une diversification plus marquée depuis les années 1980 (Amériques, Asie). Même après une modification méthodologique profonde des objets à étudier (les opérations elles-mêmes et non les seuls bénéficiaires), le modèle sociétal africain est demeuré le référent de base.
Démocratisation et décentralisation en Afrique. Un exemple mauritanien
Authors: Leservoisier Olivier
Published: June 2011

Résumé Les études récentes sur le développement ont sensiblement renouvelé l’anthropologie politique en France. Alors que cet apport est souvent passé sous silence, cet article tente, à partir de l’exemple des enjeux de la décentralisation et de la démocratisation en Mauritanie, de démontrer l’intérêt des approches de la socio-anthropologie du développement dans l’analyse des pouvoirs locaux et des espaces publics. Dans cette perspective, une attention particulière est accordée aux catégories sociales dont l’étude se révèle déterminante pour saisir les enjeux et les effets des politiques de développement.
Le « prénom de famille » en Angleterre. Un exemple ethnographique
Authors: Massard-Vincent Josiane
Published: June 2011

Résumé À partir d’une enquête dans un bourg du Derbyshire associant registres baptismaux et entretiens (1998-2005), l’auteur examine la pratique anglaise consistant à attribuer des « prénoms de famille » aux enfants (surtout de sexe masculin), dans ses rapports avec la parenté contemporaine et dans ses incidences temporelle et symbolique. La transmission de noms familiaux coexiste avec le « libre choix » du prénom par les parents : en résulte une image composite où l’ancrage historique renforcé par le recyclage de noms traditionnels le dispute au souci de renouveler l’onomastique par des noms singuliers. Censé valoriser l’individu plutôt que le groupe, le nom choisi est soumis à une rotation de plus en plus rapide tandis que le nom repris participe de la mémoire familiale et du temps long.
La libre circulation des personnes : réflexions sur l'expérience de la C.E.M.A.C. et de la C.E.D.E.A.O.
Authors: Zogo Nkada Simon-Pierre
Published: June 2011

La liberté de circulation des personnes constitue dans le contexte actuel de globalisation des échanges un instrument essentiel par lequel se matérialisent les politiques d’intégration régionale à travers le monde et dont le modèle le mieux achevé à ce jour est celui de l’Union européenne. La notion de liberté telle que définie par l’article 4 de la Déclaration française des droits de l’Homme (de 1789) semble donner une grande importance à l’aspect individuel de ce concept (liberté d’aller et de venir) que garantissent aussi bien le droit des États modernes que les conventions internationales relatives aux droits et libertés individuelles. La consécration de la liberté de mouvement comme droit individuel inaliénable dans l’ordre juridique interne a progressivement été admise et codifiée par le droit international. Si le principe de libre circulation des personnes ne rencontre pas de restrictions dans la plupart des législations internes des États, en l’occurrence pour les citoyens de ces États, en revanche le droit communautaire qui admet ce principe comme un facteur déterminant du processus d’intégration des espaces économiques souverains dans un vaste ensemble n’en pose pas moins certaines conditions préalables. Les exemples de la Communauté économique et monétaire de l’Afrique centrale (CEMAC) et de la Communauté économique des États de l’Afrique de l’Ouest (CEDEAO) sont une illustration pertinente de l’intérêt du processus d’intégration économique à l’échelle régionale qui se manifeste dans toutes les parties du monde à l’instar du MERCOSUR, de l’ASEAN et l’ALENA notamment. Si la construction des espaces de libre-échange dans les régions de l’Afrique centrale (CEMAC) et de l’Afrique de l’Ouest (CEDEAO) peut présenter des similitudes au plan des synergies qui accompagnent ce processus à l’intérieur des États concernés – notamment à travers le volontarisme affiché des acteurs institutionnels, et la mise en place d’un cadre juridique adapté à l’attente de l’objectif de libre circulation des personnes –, cette dynamique observée depuis plusieurs décennies dans l’une et l’autre région de l’Afrique n’obéit pas à la même approche pratique, car la mise en œuvre du processus d’intégration économique régionale au moyen de la liberté d’établissement et du droit de résidence est soumise à de nombreuses contraintes d’ordre politique et structurel – de manière plus accentuée dans la CEMAC en raison du penchant souverainiste des États membres. Aussi le contournement de ces obstacles à la construction d’espace de libres échanges viables en Afrique centrale et occidentale est inévitable ; et cela peut se réaliser par une implication plus accrue des acteurs politiques du processus et davantage par une réforme des instruments juridiques de réalisation de cet objectif, dans le cas plus spécifique de la CEMAC.
The response of meiofauna to human trampling on coral reefs
Authors: Sarmento Visnu C. , Barreto Aliny F.S. , Santos Paulo J.P.
Published: June 2011

Coastal environments are trampled by humans worldwide; however, there are few studies that evaluate the effect of trampling on the meiofauna of hard substrates, and none on meiofauna of reef environments. We investigated the effects of trampling due to tourism on the meiofauna of reef formations on the northeastern coast of Brazil. Samples were taken from five paired stations located in two areas on the reef: an area protected since 2004, and an area open to tourist visits. Trampling caused important changes in the meiofaunal assemblage. The densities of the total meiofauna and of the commonest groups were negatively affected in the trampled area. Among the major groups, Polychaeta proved to be very sensitive to this disturbance. The meiofauna groups showed different response patterns to trampling depending on the species of algae trampled. Reductions in animal densities were partly attributed to the loss of turf biomass and associated sand caused by trampling, and partly to the direct effect of people stepping on the animals. Considering the importance of meiofauna in the food web as well as its biodiversity, these results highlight the possible negative effects of human trampling on the ecological and economic “services” that coral reefs provide.
Larval fish assemblages in coastal waters of central Greece: reflections of topographic and oceanographic heterogeneity
Authors: Somarakis Stylianos , Isari Stamatina , Machias Athanassios
Published: June 2011

Patterns in the mesoscale distribution of larval fish in the coastal waters of central Greece, an area of high topographic and bathymetric complexity, were analysed using samples collected during two ichthyoplankton surveys in July 1998 and June 1999. Salinities were lower in the eastern (Aegean) part of the study area due to the influence of waters originating from the Black Sea. In this region, larvae of many epipelagic and benthopelagic (typically summer spawning) species were less abundant in June 1999, when waters were significantly cooler, compared to July 1998. Multivariate analyses identified ‘neritic’ and ‘pelagic’ groups of stations dominated by larvae of epipelagic/bethopelagic (typically shelf dwelling) and mesopelagic species. In the west (Ionian Sea), a prominent third group of stations located in the deep and highly enclosed Korinthiakos Gulf was also defined with very high abundances of mesopelagic fish larvae. However, the genera Cyclothone and Vinciguerria that dominated the neighbouring offshore assemblage of the Ionian Sea were absent from this gulf. In the study area, Korinthiakós Gulf ( > 900 m) and North Evoikos ( > 400 m) Gulf comprise unique ‘fjord-like’ ecosystems in the Mediterranean with increased productivity and significantly cooler deep waters compared to adjacent open sea basins.
Yersinia pestis YopE Contains a Dominant CD8 T Cell Epitope that Confers Protection in a Mouse Model of Pneumonic Plague
Authors: Lin Jr-Shiuan , Szaba Frank M. , Kummer Lawrence W. , Chromy Brett A. , Smiley Stephen T.
Published: June 2011

Septic bacterial pneumonias are a major cause of death worldwide. Several of the highest priority bioterror concerns, including anthrax, tularemia, and plague, are caused by bacteria that acutely infect the lung. Bacterial resistance to multiple antibiotics is increasingly common. Although vaccines may be our best defense against antibiotic-resistant bacteria, there has been little progress in the development of safe and effective vaccines for pulmonary bacterial pathogens. The Gram-negative bacterium Yersinia pestis causes pneumonic plague, an acutely lethal septic pneumonia. Historic pandemics of plague caused millions of deaths, and the plague bacilli’s potential for weaponization sustains an ongoing quest for effective countermeasures. Subunit vaccines have failed, to date, to fully protect nonhuman primates. In mice, they induce the production of Abs that act in concert with type 1 cytokines to deliver high-level protection; however, the Y. pestis Ags recognized by cytokine-producing T cells have yet to be defined. In this study, we report that Y. pestis YopE is a dominant Ag recognized by CD8 T cells in C57BL/6 mice. After vaccinating with live attenuated Y. pestis and challenging intranasally with virulent plague, nearly 20% of pulmonary CD8 T cells recognize this single, highly conserved Ag. Moreover, immunizing mice with a single peptide, YopE69–77, suffices to confer significant protection from lethal pulmonary challenge. These findings suggest YopE could be a valuable addition to subunit plague vaccines and provide a new animal model in which sensitive, pathogen-specific assays can be used to study CD8 T cell-mediated defense against acutely lethal bacterial infections of the lung.
Cutting Edge: T Cells Monitor N-Myristoylation of the Nef Protein in Simian Immunodeficiency Virus-Infected Monkeys
Authors: Morita Daisuke , Igarashi Tatsuhiko , Horiike Mariko , Mori Naoki , Sugita Masahiko
Published: June 2011

The use of the host cellular machinery is essential for pathogenic viruses to replicate in host cells. HIV and SIV borrow the host-derived N-myristoyl-transferase and its substrate, myristoyl-CoA, for coupling a saturated C14 fatty acid (myristic acid) to the N-terminal glycine residue of the Nef protein. This biochemical reaction, referred to as N-myristoylation, assists its targeting to the plasma membrane, thereby supporting the immunosuppressive activity proposed for the Nef protein. In this study, we show that the host immunity is equipped with CTLs capable of sensing N-myristoylation of the Nef protein. A rhesus macaque CD8+ T cell line was established that specifically recognized N-myristoylated, but not unmodified, peptides of the Nef protein. Furthermore, the population size of N-myristoylated Nef peptide-specific T cells was found to increase significantly in the circulation of SIV-infected monkeys. Thus, these results identify N-myristoylated viral peptides as a novel class of CTL target Ag.
MPTP Neurotoxicity and Testosterone Induce Dendritic Remodeling of Striatal Medium Spiny Neurons in the C57Bl/6 Mouse
Authors: Antzoulatos Eleni , Jakowec Michael W. , Petzinger Giselle M. , Wood Ruth I.
Published: June 2011

Nigrostriatal damage is increased in males relative to females. While estrogen is neuroprotective in females, less is known about potential protective effects of testosterone in males. We determined if castration enhances neuronal injury to 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP). Castrates or sham-castrated mice were sacrificed 1 week following injection of MPTP (4×20 mg/kg) or saline (n=11-12/group). The right striatum was immunostained for tyrosine hydroxylase (TH). The left hemisphere was stained by Golgi Cox to quantify neuronal morphology in medium spiny neurons (MSNs) of the dorsolateral striatum. MPTP reduced TH, but there was no effect of castration and no interaction. For MSN dendritic morphology, MPTP decreased the highest branch order and increased spine density on 2nd-order dendrites. Castrated males had shorter 5th-order dendrites. However, there was no interaction between gonadal status and MPTP. Thus, castration and MPTP exert nonoverlapping effects on MSN morphology with castration acting on distal dendrites and MPTP acting proximally.