bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
First Heater Cable Installed in Colombia
Authors: Acosta W.. , Garcés C. A.
Published: June 2014

In an effort to improve the production of heavy oil, an operator in Colombia installed the first heater cable in Colombia. This cable is manufactured with a technology similar to the power cables used in ESP systems, the cable have specific design to generate heat in the bottom of hole. The principle of this cable is passing the electric current through a conductor to generate internal collisions of ions. These collisions transform the energy in heat; this heat is transferred to the fluid and well formation to reduce the viscosity fluid to permit the fluid mobility into the tubing.
Technical and Financial Evaluation of a Process of Cyclic Steam Injection Using Horizontal Wells
Authors: Higalgo C. A. , Muñoz S. F. , Oliveros L. R. , Naranjo C. E.
Published: June 2014

In order to determine the best operating scheme, and taking into account the increase in demand for oil and the need of increasing the recovery of existing fields, enhanced recovery techniques are an alternative to the oil industry.

In Colombia, the stratified deposits of heavy oil have become the focus of oil exploration with EOR methods, including the one which is conceptually evaluated in this paper. However, the production of these fields has been restricted to strata having considerable thickness, forgetting about certain amounts of hydrocarbons from thin strata, representing significant potential for increasing production and reserves.

In search of the best alternative for extracting heavy oil reserves are contained in thin strata reservoir, this paper shows the technical and financial evaluation of applying cyclic steam injection using horizontal wells in these fields, using the injectivity and the benefit of the location Horizontal wells, and viscosity reductions product with steam heating. To carry out this process, It was evaluated the effect of each operational and reservoir parameters. Subsequently, due to the uncertainty of the distribution of steam in the reservoir and the importance of heterogeneities in this effect, the numerical simulation was performed with homogeneous and heterogeneous models, comparing productive behavior of each stage, to determine the best model to use in optimizing operational parameters.

Once the best scenario was determined it  was performed a sensitivity and process optimization, seeking operating conditions that showed the best results with cyclic steam injection in horizontal wells, for further financial analysis that would provide a comprehensive feasibility study .
Soil acidification as a limiting factor to agricultural production in the municipality of Ljubovija
Authors: Cakmak Dragan , Sikiric Biljana , Beloica Jelena , Belanovic-Simic Snezana , Perovic Veljko , Mrvic Vesna , Saljnikov Elmira
Published: June 2014

The process of soil acidification means, above all, a reduction of soil
solution pH. It can be the result of slow, years-long natural process or
considerably accelerated due to a combination of natural processes and
anthropogenic influences. Acidification is a very important factor in the
permanent degradation of the fertility of soil, as the most important and
hardly renewable natural resource. Studies on soil susceptibility to the
process of acidification were carried out in the Municipality of Ljubovija,
using three methods. Defining of the degree of soil susceptibility to the
process of acidification allows timely activities aimed at the reduction of
overall soil acidity. Management of agricultural land, in isolated areas,
must be focused on a balanced use of fertilizers and agrotechnical measures,
using proper planting /crops to achieve the optimum use of resources and
sustainable soil fertility.
Nectar production in species of the Genus galanthus L. (Amaryllidaceae) from Serbia
Authors: Jovanovic Filip , Obratov-Petkovic Dragica , Macukanovic-Jocic Marina
Published: June 2014

As a contribution to the study of the melliferous flora of Serbia, nectar
production in two species of the genus Galanthus L. (G. nivalis L., and G.
elwesii Hook.) was investigated. The intensity of nectar secretion was
determined directly, using the microcapillary method. The study included
determination of the total daily nectar amount per flower, and an analysis of
nectar secretion dynamics during the day and during the flower ontogeny. The
results show that the total daily amount of nectar per flower is low, and
flowers of both species exude nectar only once during the day and during the
flower ontogeny. However, despite the low nectar production, Galanthus
species represent a first valuable source of nectar and pollen to pollinators
in the early spring period, when only a small number of species are in the
flowering phenophase.
VDS info and support service: The analysis of the service’s work in 2012
Authors: Radovanovic Una , Popovic Milica
Published: June 2014

VDS info and victim support service was established as part of the
Victimology Society of Serbia in 2003, and its focus is on providing support
and assistance to victims of various forms of crime. It is also the only
service of general type in Serbia, which provides assistance and support to
victims of crime, regardless of gender, age, form of victimization or any
other personal characteristics. The aim of this paper is to analyze the work
of VDS info and victim support service in the 2012, with special emphasis on
ways of providing assistance and support to people who have contacted the
Service because of workplace and domestic violence, as well as convicts,
considering that those are also the most common causes for contacting the
Service.
Free Fatty Acid Uptake in Humans With CD36 Deficiency
Authors: Hames Kazanna C. , Vella Adrian , Kemp Bradley J. , Jensen Michael D.
Published: June 2014

Animal models have demonstrated that CD36 facilitates cell membrane free fatty acid (FFA) transport, but its role in human metabolism is not well understood. We measured heart, liver, adipose (three depots), and muscle (truncal postural and thigh locomotive) FFA uptake using [11C]palmitate positron emission tomography (PET) scans in a family of five carrying the Pro90Ser CD36 mutation (2 homozygotes had no CD36) and matched control volunteers. PET scans were done under conditions of suppressed and slightly increased palmitate concentrations. During suppressed palmitate conditions, muscle and adipose palmitate uptake were markedly reduced in homozygotes but not heterozygotes for the Pro90Ser CD36 mutation, whereas when palmitate concentration was slightly increased, uptake in muscle and adipose did not differ between control subjects and homozygous family members. Hepatic FFA uptake was similar in all participants regardless of palmitate concentrations, whereas myocardial FFA uptake was diminished in the Pro90Ser homozygotes during both suppressed and increased palmitate conditions. We conclude that CD36 1) facilitates FFA transport into muscle and adipose tissue in humans when extracellular concentrations are reduced but not when they are modestly elevated, 2) is not rate limiting for hepatic FFA uptake, and 3) is needed for normal cardiac FFA uptake over a range of FFA concentrations from low to slightly elevated.
Influence of pH on the solubility of arsenic in heavily contaminated soils / Wpływ pH na rozpuszczalność arsenu w glebach silnie zanieczyszczonych
Authors: Gersztyn Leszek , Karczewska Anna , Gałka Bernard
Published: June 2014

The aim of this study was to determine the impact of pH on arsenic solubility in soils heavily contaminated by the former arsenic industry. For the purpose of the study, three soil samples were collected from the area affected by ore processing in Złoty Stok. Soils differed in initial pH, calcium carbonate content, organic matter content and total arsenic concentration. The amounts of arsenic released from soils at various pH were measured using extraction tests, where soil samples were shaken with various doses of HCl and NaOH in the presence of 0.01 mol • dm−3 CaCl2 as the background solution. Arsenic solubility in soils was considerably low at neutral or slightly acidic pH and increased considerably in both strongly acidic and alkaline conditions. The importance of these effects for environmental risk was discussed.
A Comparative Study of Several Classical, Discrete Differential and Isogeometric Methods for Solving Poisson’s Equation on the Disk
Authors: Nguyen Thien , Karčiauskas Keçstutis , Peters Jörg
Published: June 2014

This paper outlines and qualitatively compares the implementations of seven different methods for solving Poisson’s equation on the disk. The methods include two classical finite elements, a cotan formula-based discrete differential geometry approach and four isogeometric constructions. The comparison reveals numerical convergence rates and, particularly for isogeometric constructions based on Catmull–Clark elements, the need to carefully choose quadrature formulas. The seven methods include two that are new to isogeometric analysis. Both new methods yield O(h3) convergence in the L2 norm, also when points are included where n 6≠ 4 pieces meet. One construction is based on a polar, singular parameterization; the other is a G1 tensor-product construction.
Elucidating the Role of Neurotensin in the Pathophysiology and Management of Major Mental Disorders
Authors: Boules Mona , Fredrickson Paul , Muehlmann Amber , Richelson Elliott
Published: June 2014

Neurotensin (NT) is a neuropeptide that is closely associated with, and is thought to modulate, dopaminergic and other neurotransmitter systems involved in the pathophysiology of various mental disorders. This review outlines data implicating NT in the pathophysiology and management of major mental disorders such as schizophrenia, drug addiction, and autism. The data suggest that NT receptor analogs have the potential to be used as novel therapeutic agents acting through modulation of neurotransmitter systems dys-regulated in these disorders.
Kinetic Isotope Effect of Prostaglandin H Synthase Exhibits Inverted Temperature Dependence
Authors: Wu Gang , Kulmacz Richard , Tsai Ah-Lim
Published: June 2014

Conversion of arachidonic acid to prostaglandin G2/H2 catalyzed by prostaglandin H synthase (PGHS) is proposed to involve initial transfer of the C13 pro-(S) hydrogen atom from arachidonate to the Tyr385 radical in PGHS, followed by insertion of two oxygen molecules and several chemical bond rearrangements. The initial hydrogen-transfer was recently concluded to be a rate-limiting step in cyclooxygenase catalysis based on the observed intrinsic deuterium kinetic isotope effect values (Dkcat). In the present study, we have found that Dkcat values of both PGHS-1 and -2 show an unusual increase with temperatures in the range of 288–310 K, exhibiting an inverted temperature dependence. The value of lnDkcat, however, decreased linearly with 1/T, consistent with a typical Arrhenius relationship.
Imprinted Genes and the Environment: Links to the Toxic Metals Arsenic, Cadmium and Lead
Authors: Smeester Lisa , Yosim Andrew , Nye Monica , Hoyo Cathrine , Murphy Susan , Fry Rebecca
Published: June 2014

Imprinted genes defy rules of Mendelian genetics with their expression tied to the parent from whom each allele was inherited. They are known to play a role in various diseases/disorders including fetal growth disruption, lower birth weight, obesity, and cancer. There is increasing interest in understanding their influence on environmentally-induced disease. The environment can be thought of broadly as including chemicals present in air, water and soil, as well as food. According to the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR), some of the highest ranking environmental chemicals of concern include metals/metalloids such as arsenic, cadmium, lead and mercury. The complex relationships between toxic metal exposure, imprinted gene regulation/expression and health outcomes are understudied. Herein we examine trends in imprinted gene biology, including an assessment of the imprinted genes and their known functional roles in the cell, particularly as they relate to toxic metals exposure and disease. The data highlight that many of the imprinted genes have known associations to developmental diseases and are enriched for their role in the TP53 and AhR pathways. Assessment of the promoter regions of the imprinted genes resulted in the identification of an enrichment of binding sites for two transcription factor families, namely the zinc finger family II and PLAG transcription factors. Taken together these data contribute insight into the complex relationships between toxic metals in the environment and imprinted gene biology.
MicroRNAs in Brain Metastases: Potential Role as Diagnostics and Therapeutics
Authors: Alsidawi Samer , Malek Ehsan , Driscoll James
Published: June 2014

Brain metastases remain a daunting adversary that negatively impact patient survival. Metastatic brain tumors affect up to 45% of all cancer patients with systemic cancer and account for ~20% of all cancer-related deaths. A complex network of non-coding RNA molecules, microRNAs (miRNAs), regulate tumor metastasis. The brain micro-environment modulates metastatic tumor growth; however, defining the precise genetic events that promote metastasis in the brain niche represents an important, unresolved problem. Understanding these events will reveal disease-based targets and offer effective strategies to treat brain metastases. Effective therapeutic strategies based upon the biology of brain metastases represent an urgent, unmet need with immediate potential for clinical impact. Studies have demonstrated the ability of miRNAs to distinguish normal from cancerous cells, primary from secondary brain tumors, and correctly categorize metastatic brain tumor tissue of origin based solely on miRNA profiles. Interestingly, manipulation of miRNAs has proven effective in cancer treatment. With the promise of reduced toxicity, increased efficacy and individually directed personalized anti-cancer therapy, using miRNA in the treatment of metastatic brain tumors may prove very useful and improve patient outcome. In this review, we focus on the potential of miRNAs as diagnostic and therapeutic targets for the treatment of metastatic brain lesions.
Cytotoxic Effects of Dillapiole on Embryonic Development of Mouse Blastocysts in Vitro and in Vivo
Authors: Chan Wen-Hsiung
Published: June 2014

We examined the cytotoxic effects of dillapiole, a phenylpropanoid with antileishmanial, anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and acaricidal activities, on the blastocyst stage of mouse embryos, subsequent embryonic attachment and outgrowth in vitro, and in vivo implantation via embryo transfer. Blastocysts treated with 2.5–10 μM dillapiole exhibited a significant increase in apoptosis and corresponding decrease in total cell number. Notably, the implantation success rates of blastocysts pretreated with dillapiole were lower than those of their control counterparts. Moreover, in vitro treatment with 2.5–10 μM dillapiole was associated with increased resorption of post-implantation embryos and decreased fetal weight. Our results collectively indicate that dillapiole induces apoptosis and retards early post-implantation development, both in vitro and in vivo. However, the extent to which this organic compound exerts teratogenic effects on early human development is not known at present. Further studies are required to establish effective protection strategies against the cytotoxic effects of dillapiole.
Synthesis and Cytotoxic Activity of a New Group of Heterocyclic Analogues of the Combretastatins
Authors: Lipeeva Alla , Shults Elvira , Shakirov Makhmut , Pokrovsky Mikhail , Pokrovsky Andrey
Published: June 2014

A series of new analogs of combretastatin A-4 (CA-4, 1) with the A or B-ring replaced by a 3-oxo-2,3-dihydrofurocoumarin or a furocoumarin residue have been designed and synthesized by employing a cross-coupling approach. All the compounds were evaluated for their cytotoxic activity with respect to model cancer cell lines (CEM-13, MT-4, U-937) using conventional MTT assays. Structure-activity relationship analysis reveals that compounds 2, 3, 6–8 in which the (Z)-styryl substituent was connected to the 2-position of the 3-oxo-2,3-dihydrofurocoumarin core, demonstrated increased potency compared to 3-(Z)-styrylfurocoumarins 4, 5, 9–11. The methoxy-, hydroxyl- and formyl- substitution on the aromatic ring of the (Z)-styryl moiety seems to play an important role in this class of compounds. Compounds 2 and 3 showed the best potency against the CEM-13 cell lines, with CTD50 values ranging from 4.9 to 5.1 μM. In comparison with CA-4, all synthesized compounds presented moderate cytotoxic activity to the T-cellular human leucosis cells MT-4 and lymphoblastoid leukemia cells CEM-13, but most of them were active in the human monocyte cell lines U-937.
Enhancement of Phenolics, Resveratrol and Antioxidant Activity by Nitrogen Enrichment in Cell Suspension Culture of Vitis vinifera
Authors: Sae-Lee Napaporn , Kerdchoechuen Orapin , Laohakunjit Natta
Published: June 2014

Ammonium nitrate (NH4NO3), an important nitrogen source (34% N), has been used as an elicitor to stimulate plant growth and development as well as induce secondary metabolites under controlled conditions. In the present paper, we investigated the enhancement of cell biomass, total phenolics, resveratrol levels, and antioxidant activity of Vitis vinifera cv. Pok Dum by nitrogen enrichment (MS medium supplemented with NH4NO3 at 0, 500, 1,000, 5,000 and 10,000 mg/L). The highest accumulations of biomass, phenolics and resveratrol contents were observed at 8.8-fold (86.6 g DW/L), 15.9-fold (71.91 mg GAE/g DW) and 5.6-fold (277.89 µg/g DW) by the 14th day, in the medium supplemented with 500 mg/L NH4NO3. Moreover, the antioxidant activities of cultured grape cells estimated by the DPPH· and ABTS·+ assay were positively correlated with phenolics and resveratrol, and the maximum activity was also observed in cultured cells with 500 mg/L NH4NO3 at 176.11 and 267.79 mmol TE/100 g DW, respectively.
The Role of Translational Regulation in Survival after Radiation Damage; an Opportunity for Proteomics Analysis
Authors: Stickel Stefanie , Gomes Nathan , Su Tin
Published: June 2014

In this review, we will summarize the data from different model systems that illustrate the need for proteome-wide analyses of the biological consequences of ionizing radiation (IR). IR remains one of three main therapy choices for oncology, the others being surgery and chemotherapy. Understanding how cells and tissues respond to IR is essential for improving therapeutic regimes against cancer. Numerous studies demonstrating the changes in the transcriptome following exposure to IR, in diverse systems, can be found in the scientific literature. However, the limitation of our knowledge is illustrated by the fact that the number of transcripts that change after IR exposure is approximately an order of magnitude lower than the number of transcripts that re-localize to or from ribosomes under similar conditions. Furthermore, changes in the post-translational modifications of proteins (phosphorylation, acetylation as well as degradation) are profoundly important for the cellular response to IR. These considerations make proteomics a highly suitable tool for mechanistic studies of the effect of IR. Strikingly such studies remain outnumbered by those utilizing proteomics for diagnostic purposes such as the identification of biomarkers for the outcome of radiation therapy. Here we will discuss the role of the ribosome and translational regulation in the survival and preservation of cells and tissues after exposure to ionizing radiation. In doing so we hope to provide a strong incentive for the study of proteome-wide changes following IR exposure.
Sur l'improbable douceur du feu dans la cosmologie de Parménide (v. 57 du Fr. 8 DK)
Authors: Todoua Maïa
Published: June 2014

D'après la théorie physique de Parménide, deux éléments fondamentaux régissent le monde, le feu éthéré de la flamme et la nuit obscure. Dans l'énumération des adjectifs (v. 57-59 du Fr. 8 DK), qui n'est pas sans rappeler un système de paires d'opposés, chacun de deux éléments reçoit les caractéristiques opposées les unes des autres. Il se trouve que, suite à des interventions ultérieures, le vers 57 nous est parvenu sous forme d'un heptamètre au lieu d'un hexamètre attendu, donnant ainsi lieu à une irrégularité métrique qui soulève un problème davantage dogmatique que textuel. Tous les manuscrits du Commentaire à la Physique de Simplicius, notre source unique pour ce passage, établissent, pour l'élément du feu, trois épithètes : ήπιον, « doux », άραιόν, « clairsemé », et έλαφρόν, « léger ». Dès les premières éditions de Parménide, la lecture consensuelle a consisté à conserver ήπιον, « doux », en éliminant soit άραιόν, « clairsemé », soit έλαφρόν, « léger », considérés, à tour de rôle, comme une glose l'un de l'autre. Quant à ήπιον, traduit tantôt comme « calme, non intense », tantôt comme « doux, favorable », sa véritable portée dans ce contexte n'a jamais été dûment expliquée. Le présent article essaie de démontrer que la conservation de ήπιον au vers 57 va à rencontre du principe même d'un système cosmologique fondé sur une opposition fondamentale. Selon la théorie physique de Parménide, les éléments premiers, ainsi que leurs caractéristiques, sont établis à part les uns des autres (χωρίς απ' αλλήλων). Chaque qualificatif du feu devrait donc trouver son pendant dans la description de la nuit. Or ήπιον est le seul terme qui échappe à cette règle. Dans ma tentative de réfuter l'opinion consensuelle concernant l'authenticité de ήπιον au vers 57 du Fr. 8 DK, j'ai trouvé que le cardinal Bessarion, dans sa traduction latine de ce passage, offrait une lecture proche de cette idée non orthodoxe. Par ailleurs, Simon Karsten, auteur de la reconstitution définitive du poème de Parménide, se sentait, lui aussi, tenté par cette hypothèse.
ἩΜΙΘΕΟΣ en question : l'homme, le héros et le demi-dieu
Authors: Delattre Charles
Published: June 2014

The notion of 'demi-god' is both a modem category, useful for defining certain characters of Greek mythology, and a term with inherited meanings from classical semantics, which means that its definition is just as complex as that of the term hero to which it is linked. In the archaic tradition, the term 'demi-god' is used to designate a set, a group of individuals collectively understood as having two lines of descent, one human, the other divine. This group is defined by a certain number of common characteristics, which place them on the borderlines between mortality and immortality. These characteristics disappear when the characters which make up this group are no longer considered collectively but individually, as was already the practice of the mythographers of the Hellenistic and Roman periods. The mortality / immortality antinomy, which is nonetheless the basis of their definition, no longer functions in analyses of individual destiny, and it becomes impossible, on this basis, to provide a single and general characterisation of the demi-god.
Winckelmann et les monnaies antiques
Authors: De Callataÿ François
Published: June 2014

Cet article s'intéresse aux connaissances et à l'utilisation que fit Johann Joachim Winckelmann des monnaies antiques, avec ses faiblesses (ses fautes quelquefois) mais aussi ses originalités. Contrairement à ce qui a pu être écrit, Winckelmann s'est beaucoup intéressé aux monnaies antiques : ne voyait-t-il pas dans la tête d'Aréthuse des monnaies de Syracuse un témoignage d'insurpassable beauté ? Sans surprise, les questions de style et de gravure sont celles qui l'ont le plus préoccupé.
Scale effects of nanomechanical properties and deformation behavior of Au nanoparticle and thin film using depth sensing nanoindentation
Authors: Maharaj Dave , Bhushan Bharat
Published: June 2014

Nanoscale research of bulk solid surfaces, thin films and micro- and nano-objects has shown that mechanical properties are enhanced at smaller scales. Experimental studies that directly compare local with global deformation are lacking. In this research, spherical Au nanoparticles, 500 nm in diameter and 100 nm thick Au films were selected. Nanoindentation (local deformation) and compression tests (global deformation) were performed with a nanoindenter using a sharp Berkovich tip and a flat punch, respectively. Data from nanoindentation studies were compared with bulk to study scale effects. Nanoscale hardness of the film was found to be higher than the nanoparticles with both being higher than bulk. Both nanoparticles and film showed increasing hardness for decreasing penetration depth. For the film, creep and strain rate effects were observed. In comparison of nanoindentation and compression tests, more pop-ins during loading were observed during the nanoindentation of nanoparticles. Repeated compression tests of nanoparticles were performed that showed a strain hardening effect and increased pop-ins during subsequent loads.
Stereoselective synthesis of carbocyclic analogues of the nucleoside Q precursor (PreQ0)
Authors: Llona-Minguez Sabin , Mackay Simon P
Published: June 2014

A convergent and stereoselective synthesis of chiral cyclopentyl- and cyclohexylamine derivatives of nucleoside Q precursor (PreQ0) has been accomplished. This synthetic route allows for an efficient preparation of 4-substituted analogues with interesting three-dimensional character, including chiral cyclopentane-1,2-diol and -1,2,3-triol derivatives. This unusual substitution pattern provides a useful starting point for the discovery of novel bioactive molecules.
A TRUNCATION METHOD BASED ON HERMITE EXPANSION FOR UNKNOWN SOURCE IN SPACE FRACTIONAL DIFFUSION EQUATION
Authors: Zhao Zhenyu , Xiea Ou , You Lei , Meng Zehong
Published: June 2014

In this paper we consider the problem for identifying an unknown steady source in a space fractional diffusion equation. A truncation method based on a Hermite function expansion is proposed, and the regularization parameter is chosen by a discrepancy principle. An error estimate between the exact solution and its approximation is given. A numerical implementation is discussed and corresponding results are presented to verify the effectiveness of the method.
Pfcrt mutant haplotypes may not correspond with chloroquine resistance
Authors: Goswami Diganta , Dhiman Sunil , Rabha Bipul , Kumar Dinesh , Baruah Indra , Sharma Dhirendra Kumar , Veer Vijay
Published: June 2014

Introduction: Chloroquine resistance in Plasmodium falciparum is associated with mutations in pfcrt and pfmdr1 genes. The frequency distribution of pfcrt K76T and pfmdr1 N86Y mutations and their association with chloroquine susceptibility was studied in an endemic area along the Indo-Bangladesh border. Methodology: A single-arm prospective study of clinical and parasitological responses in P. falciparum malaria patients to chloroquine was conducted in vivo. PCR-RFLP assay was used to detect pfcrt K76T and pfmdr1 N86Y mutations in P. falciparum. The PCR products of pfcrt gene were sequenced,  translated and aligned for haplotyping. Results: Out of 63 cases, 44 (69.8%) responded adequately to chloroquine treatment. Pfcrt K76T mutation was recorded in 100% of the treatment failure cases, whereas pfmdr1 N86Y mutation was found in 52.6% of the cases only. Early treatment failure (84.2%) occurred more frequently than late treatment failure (15.8%). Kaplan–Meier survival analysis showed that the probability estimate for treatment success after 7 and 15 days was 0.84 (95% CI = 0.72-0.92) and 0.70 (95% CI = 0.57-0.80), respectively. Sequence analysis of 72 to 76 pfcrt gene codons revealed the presence of two mutant (CVMNT, CVIET) and two wild (CVMNK, CVIEK) haplotypes. The mutant CVIET haplotype was predominantly distributed (42.1%). Conclusions: The presence of mutations in pfcrt K76T and pfmdr1 N86Y genes is not sufficient to explain the therapeutic efficacy of chloroquine to P. falciparum. Study suggests that pfcrt K76T mutant haplotypes are widely distributed and are spreading diligently, which needs to be taken into account in devising an antimalarial policy.
Occurrence of extended-spectrum beta-lactamases in human and bovine isolates of Escherichia coli from Oyo state, Nigeria
Authors: Inwezerua Christiana , Mendonça Nuno , Calhau Vera , Domingues Sara , Adeleke Olufemi Ezekiel , Da Silva Gabriela Jorge
Published: June 2014

Introduction: The main objective of the study was the molecular characterization of extended spectrum β-lactamases (ESBL) in Escherichia coli isolates collected from human and bovine samples in Oyo state, Nigeria. Methodology: Between August 2010-2011, 114 E. coli isolates were collected from hospitals (n = 57) and bovine (n = 57). PCR and sequencing were used for identification of ESBLs, upstream sequences, plasmid-mediated quinolone resistance (PMQR) genes and class 1 integrons. Plasmid incompatibility groups were identified among ESBL-positive isolates by PCR. Genetic relatdness was assessed by rep-PCR and MLST. Transfer of ESBL determinants to the recipient strain E. coli J53 was performed by broth mating assays. Results: CTX-M15 was the unique ESBL found in eight human isolates. Six CTX-M-15 producers also carry the aac(6’)-lb-cr gene and/or qnrB gene, and class 1 integrons. FIA, FIB, H11, H12, F, Y and K were the plasmid replicon types found. CTX-M-15 and PMQR determinants were transferred by conjugation in two E. coli assigned by MLST to ST131 and ST2695, a new allele. Conclusions: The study highlights the dissemination hability of CTX-M-15 associated with PMQR, and the presence of class 1 integrons, able to capture additional genes, justifying the urgent need of antimicrobial resistance surveillance in Nigeria.
Intestinal parasites in children hospitalized at the Central Hospital in Maputo, Mozambique
Authors: Fonseca Ana Maria , Fernandes Natercia , Ferreira Filipa S , Gomes Joana , Centeno-Lima Sónia
Published: June 2014

Introduction: Intestinal parasites are important contributors to the global disease burden, especially in children of low-income countries. The present study determined the frequency of intestinal parasites in children hospitalized at the diarrhea section of the Infectious-Contagious Diseases ward and at the Malnutrition ward of the Department of Pediatrics of the Maputo Central Hospital in Mozambique. Methodology: This pilot study conducted between February and March 2009 enrolled a total of 93 children between 1.5 and 48.2 months of age; 87.1% were younger than 24 months. Parasite detection in stool samples was achieved using direct microscopic observation and Ritchie’s concentration technique. Results: Infection with pathogenic intestinal parasites was detected in 16.1% (15/93) of the children. Giardia duodenalis and Trichuris trichiura were the most common parasites (6.5%, 6/93 each), followed by Ascaris lumbricoides (2.2%, 2/93). One case of mixed infection with A. lumbricoides plus T. trichiura was also detected. Conclusion: This study reinforces the importance of routinely examining stool samples for the diagnosis of intestinal parasites (including protozoa) in children hospitalized in endemic areas.
GEDIFO: A Cross-Organizational Approach to Learning in Communities of Practice
Authors: Merl Christina , Schönbauer Ulrich
Published: June 2014

In today’s globalized economy, organizations face international competition; the need for technology-driven innovation; inefficiencies due to hierarchical structures; cost-cutting; and frequently a deterioration in working conditions as a result thereof. The current paper focusses on the situation of works councils who are challenged to support the interests of employees on the one hand and to act as co-managers on the other. GEDIFO, an initiative by the Vienna Chamber of Labor and the educational body of the Austrian Trade Union, seeks to advance cross-organizational learning among works councils in communities of practice (CoP).
The Missing Link: How Lack of Branding Can Drive to Failures in e-Business and e-Commerce Ventures
Authors: Koumpis Adamantios
Published: June 2014

In the paper we present first hand and personal experiences from the lack of branding and how much it can influence the failure of a project or a venture. We do so in terms of present a personal failure story, namely this of the PACE toolkit, a methodology that the author has co-developed at ALTEC Research Programmes Division for valuating intellectual and intangible assets, in parallel with the success story of the business model canvas developed by Alex Osterwalder. We emphasise on the need for e-business and e-commerce professionals and practitioners to more seriously and enthusiastically invest in branding related activities. Involving others such as future potential users or customers as well as investors is a key in the adoption and uptake of our offerings.
Integration Solutions for Video Data in Educational Platforms
Authors: Gabor Andrei Marius , Vasiu Radu
Published: June 2014

Interdisciplinarity will become more and more not just a way of restructuring content, but also a new method of organizing the teaching process. The need of reusing video data or parts of it in the context or content of diverse courses is often imposed. Successful management of large video data implies using the results obtained on queries based on semantics. This paper aims to present the mode in which video data are modeled in e-Learning platforms trough semantic annotation of the content, using the MPEG-7 standard and specific ontologies of the e-Learning domain and as far as retrieval and reuse of results in specific applications for creating interactive courses.
Students' Adoption of Social Networks as Environments for Learning and Teaching: The Case of the Facebook
Authors: Daher Wajeeh M.
Published: June 2014

Little is known about the conditions and consequences of using the Facebook in learning. This research attempts to describe such conditions and consequences when teachers experiment using it as students in a second degree course. Fifteen students/teachers aged from 24 to 53 years old participated in the course in which they were required to attend mathematical Facebook sites. The research findings arrived at using the grounded theory show that the conditions which affected the teachers/students' work in the Facebook were: (1) causal conditions: the course's requirement; (2) intervening conditions: the participant's image of the Facebook, the participant's work characteristics and the participant's competence in computers and the internet; (3) contextual conditions: The site's subject and the environment's characteristics or conditions. These conditions influenced students' learning actions and interactions in the Facebook, especially their level of participation. The actions/interactions of the participants, together with the various conditions influenced the consequences of students' educational work in the social networking site. These consequences varied, starting from discovering how to utilize the Facebook for teaching and being aware of the advantages/ disadvantages of doing so, to proceeding with the use of the Facebook in contexts other than those being suggested in the course.
A Framework for Collaborative Networked Learning in Higher Education: Design & Analysis
Authors: Issa Ghassan F. , El Ghalayini Haya , Shubita Ahmad F. , Abu-Arqoub Mohammed H.
Published: June 2014

This paper presents a comprehensive framework for building collaborative learning networks within higher educational institutions. This framework focuses on systems design and implementation issues in addition to a complete set of evaluation, and analysis tools. The objective of this project is to improve the standards of higher education in Jordan through the implementation of transparent, collaborative, innovative, and modern quality educational programs. The framework highlights the major steps required to plan, design, and implement collaborative learning systems. Several issues are discussed such as unification of courses and program of studies, using appropriate learning management system, software design development using Agile methodology, infrastructure design, access issues, proprietary data storage, and social network analysis (SNA) techniques.
Towards a Conceptual Framework for Open Systems Developments
Authors: Cowling James A. , Morgan Christopher V. , Cloutier Robert
Published: June 2014

The systems engineering discipline has made great strides in developing a manageable approach to system development. This is predicated on thoroughly articulating the stakeholder requirements. However, in some engineering environments, requirements are changing faster than they can be captured and realized, making this ‘traditional' form of systems engineering less tenable. An iterative system refinement approach, characterized by open systems developments, may be a more appropriate and timely response for fast-changing needs. The open systems development approach has been utilized in a number of domains including open source software, Wikipedia®, and open innovation in manufacturing. However, open systems development appears difficult to recreate successfully, and while domain tradecraft advice is often available, no engineering management methodology has emerged to improve the likelihood of success. The authors discuss the essential features of openness in these three domains and use them to propose a conceptual framework for the further exploration of the effect of governance in determining success in such open endeavors. It is the authors' hope that further research to apply this conceptual framework to open source software projects may reveal some rudimentary elements of a management methodology for environments where requirements are highly uncertain, volatile, or ‘traditional' systems engineering is otherwise sub-optimal.
A Hierarchical Security Model for Multimedia Big Data
Authors: Chen Min
Published: June 2014

In this paper, the author proposes a hierarchical security model (HSM) to enhance security assurance for multimedia big data. It provides role hierarchy management and security roles/rules administration by seamlessly integrating the role-based access control (RBAC) with the object-oriented concept, spatio-temporal constraints, and multimedia standard MPEG-7. As a result, it can deal with challenging and unique security requirements in the multimedia big data environment. First, it supports multilayer access control so different access permission can be conveniently set for various multimedia elements such as visual/audio objects or segments in a multimedia data stream when needed. Second, the spatio-temporal constraints are modeled for access control purpose. Finally, its security processing is efficient to handle high data volume and rapid data arrival rate.
ICT Powered Strategic Flexibility System Dynamic Model
Authors: Mindila Agnes , Rodrigues Anthony , McCormick Dorothy , Mwangi Ronald
Published: June 2014

Resource-Based View (RBV) of the firm in strategic management literature focuses on firm internal endowments in terms of resources, capabilities and dynamic capabilities for their development. By establishing a learning mechanism, where they are able to adapt and influence the environment, enterprises build a dynamic competence and sustainable competitive advantage. This paper posits that this dynamic competence or strategic flexibility as referred to by strategic management scholars is a phenomenon that needs to be understood by scholars and practitioners in MSEs so that effective intervention programs can be designed. The paper argues that by treating strategic flexibility as a CAS provides a methodology within which models based on known theories in strategic management are employed and tested using system dynamics. The paper also posits that System Dynamics (SD) modeling is a good modeling methodology that captures the dynamism in a CAS. The paper therefore presents a conceptual model for strategic flexibility and a system dynamic model that reveals the variables in play and their relationships. In so doing the paper exposes influence points in the CAS that act as intervention points by practitioners in strategic flexibility of firms. The paper presents ICTs as interventions at the influence points and presents a generic strategic flexibility system dynamic model that brings to play the impact of ICT.
Dynamic Modeling in New Product Development
Authors: González Diana B. Queb , Salvador Marisela Rodríguez
Published: June 2014

One of the main problems for medium-sized companies located in the city of Monterrey, Mexico, is how to establish an efficient way to develop new products which not only considers factors that involve technical aspects, but also those that concern cultural issues. Frequently, medium-sized companies in Latin America do not have a clear leadership policy for their staff, despite this factor being increasingly important inachieving better performance. The objective of this research is to create a simulation model that represents the process of new product development (NPD) in the food industry. For this purpose, a medium-sized company in Monterrey was analyzed. The main focus was to develop a systematic approach that could help reduce the time span of product development. As a result, a dynamic simulation model (DSM) based on sequential logic was built that can be used widely in the new product development process. The proposed model helped us monitor each stage of new product development at the company studied. In order to achieve this, the authors incorporated certain knowledge management elements, particularly leadership and trust within teams. The authors then observed and conceptualized their effects on response time inthe new product development process. This research intends to offer new ways to understand this process by considering other factors beyond technical ones.
Cancer Chemoprevention: Current State of the Art
Authors: Landis-Piwowar Kristin R. , Iyer Neena R.
Published: June 2014

The aim of cancer chemoprevention is disruption or delay of the molecular pathways that lead to carcinogenesis. Chemopreventive blocking and/or suppressing agents disrupt the molecular mechanisms that drive carcinogenesis such as DNA damage by reactive oxygen species, increased signal transduction to NF-κB, epigenomic deregulation, and the epithelial mesenchymal transition that leads to metastatic progression. Numerous dietary phytochemicals have been observed to inhibit the initiation phase of carcinogenesis, and therefore are useful in primary chemoprevention. Moreover, phytochemicals are capable of interfering with the molecular mechanisms of metastasis. Likewise, numerous synthetic compounds are relevant and clinically viable as chemopreventive agents during the fundamental stages of carcinogenesis. While molecularly targeted anti-cancer therapies are in constant stages of development, superior patient outcomes are observed if carcinogenic processes are prevented altogether. This article reviews the role of chemopreventive compounds in inhibition of cancer initiation and their ability to reduce cancer progression.
Spectral Analysis of the Dirac Polaron
Authors: Sasaki Itaru
Published: June 2014

A system of a Dirac particle interacting with the radiation field is considered. The Hamiltonian of the system is defined by

H = \mathbf \alpha\cdot(\hat{\mathbf p}-q\mathbf A(\hat{\mathbf x}))+m\beta + H_f

, where

q\in\mathbb R

is a coupling constant,

\mathbf A(\hat{\mathbf x})

the quantized vector potential and

H_f

the free photon Hamiltonian. Since the total momentum is conserved,

H

is decomposed with respect to the total momentum with fiber Hamiltonian

H(\mathbf p), (\mathbf p\in\mathbb R^3)

. Since the self-adjoint operator

H(\mathbf p)

is bounded from below, one can define the lowest energy

E(\mathbf p,m):=\inf\sigma(H(\mathbf p))

. We prove that

E(\mathbf p,m)

is an eigenvalue of

H(\mathbf p)

under the following conditions: (i) infrared regularization and (ii)

E(\mathbf p,m)<E(\mathbf p,0)

. We also discuss the polarization vectors and the angular momentums.
Criteria for Defining ‘Severe Septal Deviation’
Authors: Muzaffar Rahil , Mattoo Owais , Khurshid Raja Salman , Islam Shafqat
Published: June 2014

Objective

Criteria for defining ‘severe septal deviation’ and to describe the clinical profile of the same.

Study

Retrospective study.

Materials and methods

Hundred patients who were diagnosed with severe DNS and treated with extracorporeal septoplasty (ECSP) from September 2010 to December 2012, were retrospectively evaluated for this study. A review of their clinical charts formed the basis of this study.

Results

In this study, majority of patients (96%) had nasal obstruction as their prime symptom followed by postnasal discharge in 60% cases, headache in 40% cases and anterior nasal discharge in 30% cases. External nasal deformity was reported by 22 patients. Snoring was seen in 24% of patients with same percentage complaining of altered sense of smell and throat discomfort. Epistaxis, sneezing and facial pain were seen in 14% patients. Epiphora was complained by only 8% of patients.

In this study, nasal endoscopy/anterior rhinoscopy was used to type the septal deformity. The commonest septal deviation was C-shaped cephalocaudal (48%), followed by S-shaped cephalocaudal (18%), C-shaped AP (16%), S-shaped AP (12%) and sharp septal deviation/angulation in 6% cases.

All but three patients (6%) had deviated nasal septum involving multiple Cottle's areas. These three patients had sharp septal angulation involving Cottle's area 2 only.

In this study, most common region involving DNS was area 1 + 2 + 3 (48%) followed by area 2 + 4 + 5 (28%) and 1 + 2 + 3 + 4 (18%).

Area 2 was invariably involved in 100% of cases.

NOSE (nasal obstruction symptom evaluation) scores.

Preoperatively, mean NOSE score was 67.60 ± 5.26 (65.34-72.86).

NSS (nasal symptoms score):

– Preoperatively, mean NSS was –5.08 ± 0.38 (–5.46-–4.70).

Conclusion

A septal deviation is regarded as ‘severe’ if patient satisfies all of the below-mentioned criteria:

– Preoperatively, mean NOSE score should be 65.34 or more.

Preoperatively, mean NSS should be –4.70 or more negative.

The septal deviation must cause significant obstruction to Cottle's area 2 or nasal valve area.

Patients of severe septal deviation report significantly higher rates of snoring (24% in our study) and PND (60% in our study) when compared with mild/moderate cases.

All severe septal deviations display significant obstruction of Cottle's area 2/nasal valve area and it is thus concluded that a severe septal deviation must cause significant obstruction of area 2/nasal valve.

How to cite this article

Mattoo O, Muzaffar R, Khurshid RS, Islam S. Criteria for Defining ‘Severe Septal Deviation’. Int J Head Neck Surg 2014;5(1):6-8.
The Modified Hockey-Stick Incision for Neck Dissection
Authors: Goswamy Jay , Murthy Praduman
Published: June 2014

The treatment of cancers of the head and neck often involves removal of selected lymph node groups in the neck. It may also include sacrifice of structures within the neck in order to achieve clearance of disease. To make this possible, one must first gain adequate access to the neck. There are many techniques described in the literature to achieve this. This article will describe some common incisions and will discuss their strengths and pitfalls. It will also explain in detail the authors’ experience of the ‘modified hockey-stick incision’ and will explain why it is recommended.

How to cite this article

Goswamy J, Murthy P. The Modified Hockey-Stick Incision for Neck Dissection. Int J Head Neck Surg 2014;5(1):22-24.
Lymphoepithelial Cyst of Tonsil
Authors: Rao Kavita , Priya NS , Shantharam Lakshmi , Somashekara KG
Published: June 2014

The tissue interactions between epithelium and mesenchyme are few of the events which result in pathological processes. One such interaction of epithelium and lymphoid tissue may result in lymphoepithelial lesions in the oral cavity. Lymphoepithelial cyst (LEC) is a rare developmental cystic lesion of the oral cavity with various histogenetic implications. Documented cases of LEC of the tonsil are low in number in the literature. We are hereby reporting a case of LEC of the tonsil in a male patient with review of literature.

How to cite this article

Somashekara KG, Priya NS, Rao K, Shantharam L. Lymphoepithelial Cyst of Tonsil. Int J Head Neck Surg 2014;5(1):28-30.