bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Why do Physicians Treat Their Relatives? Exploring the Influence of Social Psychology
Authors: Scarff Jonathan R.
Published: December 2013

Physicians often receive requests for treatment, medical advice, or other intervention from relatives. Most doctors comply. Reasons for compliance can be categorized by doctors' attitudes toward the relative, colleagues, themselves, ethical guidelines, and the problem. Compliance may be influenced by elements of social psychology as well. Social exchange theory, persuasion techniques, attribution, conformity, desire for approval, and the affinity principle can induce intervention. Future research should explore doctors' attitudes toward relatives, the medium by which requests are made, treatment outcomes, changes in the relationship following treatment, cultural or familial norms, and changes in clinicians' beliefs or behavior that occur when facing opposing requests and guidelines. Awareness of these influences may help physicians to make objective decisions regarding intervention.
Social Support, Work-Family Conflict, and Emotional Exhaustion in South Korea
Authors: Lee Soojin , Kim Seckyoung Loretta , Park Eun Kyung , Yun Seokhwa
Published: December 2013

With an increase of female workforce and dual-earner families, work-family conflict has received particular attention. Using a sample of 159 employees in South Korea, this study examined whether work-family conflict mediated the relationship between social support and emotional exhaustion. Supervisor and family support were found to be related negatively to two different aspects of work-family conflict, i.e., work interference with family and family interference with work, respectively. Also, each dimension of work-family conflict was associated with employees' emotional exhaustion. The relationship between supervisor support and emotional exhaustion was mediated by work interference with family; whereas, the relationship between family support and emotional exhaustion was mediated by family interference with work. Implications and future research directions are discussed.
Immune responses of B. malayi thioredoxin (TRX) and venom allergen homologue (VAH) chimeric multiple antigen for lymphatic filariasis
Authors: Anugraha Gandhirajan , Jeyaprita Parasurama , Madhumathi Jayaprakasam , Sheeba Tamilvanan , Kaliraj Perumal
Published: December 2013

Although multiple vaccine strategy for lymphatic filariasis has provided tremendous hope, the choice of antigens used in combination has determined its success in the previous studies. Multiple antigens comprising key vaccine candidates from different life cycle stages would provide a promising strategy if the antigenic combination is chosen by careful screening. In order to analyze one such combination, we have used a chimeric construct carrying the well studied B. malayi antigens thioredoxin (BmTRX) and venom allergen homologue (BmVAH) as a fusion protein (TV) and evaluated its immune responses in mice model. The efficacy of fusion protein vaccine was explored in comparison with the single antigen vaccines and their cocktail. In mice, TV induced significantly high antibody titer of 1,28,000 compared to cocktail vaccine TRX+VAH (50,000) and single antigen vaccine TRX (16,000) or VAH (50,000). Furthermore, TV elicited higher level of cellular proliferative response together with elevated levels of IFN-γ, IL-4 and IL-5 indicating a Th1/Th2 balanced response. The isotype antibody profile showed significantly high level of IgG1 and IgG2b confirming the balanced response elicited by TV. Immunization with TV antigen induced high levels of both humoral and cellular immune responses compared to either cocktail or antigen given alone. The result suggests that TV is highly immunogenic in mice and hence the combination needs to be evaluated for its prophylactic potential.
A transmission electron microscopical study of the tegument of Maritrema feliui (Digenea: Microphallidae)
Authors: Świderski Zdzisław , Montoliu Isabel , Feliu Carlos , Gibson David , Miquel Jordi
Published: December 2013

The tegument of the microphallid digenean Maritrema feliui, examined by means of TEM, is described as a syncytial epithelium organised into two layers. The outer layer is an external anucleate, cytoplasmic region connected to a second region composed of nucleate perikarya (cytons) deeply embedded in the surrounding cortical parenchyma. The surface layer of the tegument is covered by a plasma membrane with many deep invaginations, which are apparently pinocytotic. This layer also bears numerous large, electron-dense spines of two types, which are intracellular and attached to the basal plasma membrane. Its cytoplasm is rich in free ribosomes, contains numerous mitochondria, disc-shaped granules frequently arranged in a rouleau, and several large, moderately electron-dense, membranous bodies. The subtegumentary perikarya and their nuclei, which are both flattened, are described in detail, as are their connections with the surface tegument. These perikarya appear to be the source of the disc-shaped granules and some of the other inclusions present in the surface layer. The main characteristics of the tegumental structure of M. feliui are commented upon in relation to the findings of previous publications and their suggested functions.
Parasitism of Odonata by Arrenurus (Acari: Hydrachnidia) larvae in the Lake Świdwie, nature reserve (NW Poland)
Authors: Zawal Andrzej , Buczyński Paweł
Published: December 2013

Larvae of a vast majority of water mite species are parasites of aquatic insects. Owing to this, they migrate to new localities, and are able to survive unfavourable environmental conditions. This also concerns species from subgenus Arrenurus s. str., parasites of dragonflies. The detailed analysis of this phenomenon, however, has only been possible in the last several years, since the key to the identification of larvae from genus Arrenurus Dug. was published. In 2010, the parasitism of Arrenurus s. str. larvae on dragonflies in the Lake Świdwie reserve (NW Poland) was analysed. Larvae of 9 species of water mites were recorded on 107 imagines of dragonflies from 8 species. The following were identified as hosts of water mites for the first time: Anax imperator, Libellula quadrimaculata, and Leucorrhinia caudalis. The highest prevalence occurred in the case of: Erythromma najas and Lestes dryas (100%), Coenagrion pulchellum (96.5%), and C. puella (80.0%). Coenagrion pulchellum was infested by 9 species of parasites, C. puella by 6, and Erythromma najas and Lestes dryas by three species. The highest number of host species occurred in the case of Arrenurus maculator (5); followed by A. cuspidator, A. batillifer cf., A. bicuspidator, and A. tetracyphus (3 each); A. papillator, A. tricuspidator, and A. bruzelii (2 each), and A. claviger (1). Differentiation of preferences of particular parasites towards various parts of the host body was observed, probably related to the coevolution of parasites and hosts, and competition between the host species. The body sizes of the parasites suggest that approximately 50% of body size growth of water mites from subgenus Arrenurus s. str. occurs at the stage of parasitic larva.
Gonad-infecting philometrid Philometra philippinensis sp. nov. (Nematoda, Philometridae) from the bigeye barracuda Sphyraena forsteri Cuvier (Sphyraenidae) off Mariveles, Bataan Province, Philippine archipelago
Authors: Quiazon Karl , Yoshinaga Tomoyoshi
Published: December 2013

We conducted a parasitological study to identify nematodes infecting the gonads of bigeye barracuda Sphyraena forsteri Cuvier (Sphyraenidae) caught in the West Philippine Sea, off the Mariveles coast, Bataan Province, the Philippine archipelago. Males and very tiny nongravid female philometrid nematodes were collected from the ovaries of the fish. Based on light and scanning electron microscope observations, and supported by molecular analyses of the partial nucleotide sequences of the 18S small subunit ribosomal DNA, the philometrid nematode was determined to be a new species belonging to the genus Philometra Costa, 1845 in the family Philometridae (Nematoda: Dracunculoidea), and was named P. philippinensis sp. nov. This new species was clearly distinguishable morphologically from other congeners that parasitize the gonads of marine fishes. Males have unique sickle-shaped spicules and gubernaculum, and a vulva-like cloacal opening. Following Dentirumai philippinensis Quiazon et Moravec, 2013 and Philometra robusta Moravec, Möller et Heeger, 1992, this is the third philometrid species and the first gonad-infecting philometrid from the Philippine archipelago.
A widespread distribution for Arostrilepis tenuicirrosa (Eucestoda: Hymenolepididae) in Myodes voles (Cricetidae: Arvicolinae) from the Palearctic based on molecular and morphological evidence: historical and biogeographic implications
Authors: Galbreath Kurt , Ragaliauskaite Kristina , Kontrimavichus Leonas , Makarikov Arseny , Hoberg Eric
Published: December 2013

Hymenolepidid cestodes in Myodes glareolus from Lithuania and additional specimens originally attributed to Arostrilepis horrida from the Republic of Belarus are now referred to A. tenuicirrosa. Our study includes the first records of A. tenuicirrosa from the European (western) region of the Palearctic, and contributes to the recognition of A. horrida (sensu lato) as a complex of cryptic species distributed broadly across the Holarctic. Specimens of A. tenuicirrosa from Lithuania were compared to cestodes representing apparently disjunct populations in the eastern Palearctic based on structural characters of adult parasites and molecular sequence data from nuclear (ITS2) and mitochondrial (cytochrome b) genes. Morphological and molecular data revealed low levels of divergence between eastern and western populations. Phylogeographic relationships among populations and host biogeographic history suggests that limited intraspecific diversity within A. tenuicirrosa may reflect a Late Pleistocene transcontinental range expansion from an East Asian point of origin.
Toxoplasma gondii, Neospora caninum and tick-transmitted bacterium Anaplasma phagocytophilum infections in one selected goat farm in Slovakia
Authors: Čobádiová Andrea , Reiterová Katarina , Derdáková Markéta , Špilovská Silvia , Turčeková Ľudmila , Hviščová Ivana , Hisira Vladimir
Published: December 2013

Parasitic diseases of livestock together with poor welfare conditions can negatively affect the health status and production of small ruminants. Protozoan parasites and tick-borne infectious agents are common threat of livestock including small ruminants mostly during the pasture season. Therefore the priority of the study was to analyse the circulation and presence of two protozoan parasites Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum as well as tick-transmitted bacterium Anaplasma phagocytophilum in one selected goat farm in Eastern Slovakia. Throughout a three-year study period we have repeatedly screened the sera and blood of goats and dogs from monitored farm. In total, 343 blood serum samples from 116 goats were examined by ELISA. The mean seropositivity for T. gondii was 56.9% (66/116, CI (95%) = 48–66.0) and 15.5% (18/116, CI (95%) = 9.3–22.7) for N. caninum. The permanent occurrence of anti-Toxoplasma and anti-Neospora antibodies was detected in repeatedly examined goats during the whole monitored period. The presence of both parasites in the flock was analysed by PCR. DNA of T. gondii was confirmed in 12 out of 25 Toxoplasma-seropositive goats and N. caninum in 14 samples out of 18 Neospora-seropositive animals; four goats were co-infected with both pathogens. The risk of endogenous transmission of both parasites was pursued by examination of 41 kid’s sera, where seropositivity for toxoplasmosis was 31.7% and for neosporosis 14.6%. In dogs 61.1% seropositivity for T. gondii and 38.9% for N. caninum was found, however, their faeces were negative for coccidian oocysts. Eight out of 108 tested animals were infected with A. phagocytophilum, the causative agent of tick-borne fever. Seven of them were simultaneously infected with T. gondii and A. phagocytophilum, out of which four goats were concurrently infected with all three pathogens.
New records and new species of mites of the subfamily Harpirhynchinae (Acariformes: Harpirhynchidae) infesting birds in Manitoba, Canada
Authors: Bochkov Andre , Galloway Terry
Published: December 2013

Five new species and one new genus of the subfamily Harpirhynchinae (Acariformes: Harpirhynchidae) are described from birds in Canada: Harpyrhynchoides heatherae sp. nov. from Junco hyemalis (Passeriformes: Emberizidae), H. botaurus sp. nov. from Botaurus lentiginosus (Pelecaniformes: Ardeidae), H. phalaropus sp. nov. from Phalaropus lobatus (Charadriiformes: Scolopacidae), Neharpyrhynchus loxia sp. nov. from Loxia curvirostra (Passeriformes: Fringillidae), and Fainharpirhynchus contopus gen. nov., sp. nov. from Contopus cooperi (Passeriformes: Tyrannidae). Additionally, 3 species were recorded in Canada (Manitoba) for the first time: Harpyrhynchoides tracheatus (Fritsch, 1954) from Buteo jamaicensis (Accipitriformes: Accipitridae) (new host), H. modestus (Fain, 1976) from Columba livia (Columbiformes: Columbidae) (new host), and Neharpyrhynchus pilirostris (Berlese et Trouessart, 1889) from Passer domesticus (Passeriformes: Passeridae).
Kinetics of anti-Neospora antibodies during the period of two consecutive pregnancies in chronically infected dairy cows
Authors: Špilovská Silvia , Moskwa Bożena , Reiterová Katarina
Published: December 2013

The course of anti-Neospora antibody kinetics during two consecutive pregnancies has been evaluated in five chronically infected dairy cows. The blood samples of cows were collected monthly. Anti-Neospora antibodies in blood sera were detected by indirect ELISA (ID-VET, France). During whole period of the study cows remained seropositive; with S/P% values (iELISA) ranging from 94 to 214%. The antibody kinetics determined by iELISA showed a significant increase (P<0.0059) of specific IgG antibodies in the third trimester of both pregnancies. The monitored cows gave birth to 10 healthy calves (4 steers and 6 heifers). To confirm the occurrence of vertical transmission of Neospora from mothers to offspring in the herd, dam-daughter serology was performed. Anti-Neospora antibodies was found in 4 from 6 heifers (>6 months old). Study presents original data reporting on the very similar persistent pattern of anti-Neospora antibody levels during the third trimester of pregnancies in all five dairies. Based on the high seropositivity of female offspring, the reactivation of a latent infection of cows rather than a re-infection can be supposed.
New data on the occurrence of Acanthocephala in some fish in Admiralty Bay (South Shetland Islands)
Authors: Zdzitowiecki Krzysztof , Laskowski Zdzisław
Published: December 2013

New data on the infection with Acanthocephala of 33 fish caught in Admiralty Bay in November 2007 to January 2008 are given. These fish belong to 5 species: Notothenia rossii (22 immature specimens), Lindbergichthys nudifrons (n = 7), Trematomus bernacchii (n = 1), T. newnesi (n = 1) and Harpagifer antarcticus (n = 2). Three species of Echinorhynchida: Aspersentis megarhynchus, Metacanthocephalus dalmori and M. johnstoni and four species of Polymorphida: Corynosoma arctocephali, C. bullosum, C. hamanni and C. pseudohamanni, were found. Prevalence of N. rossii and L. nudifrons was 100%. The mean abundance of infection of N. rossii (125.09) was larger than that of Notothenia coriiceps (82.93). Data of infection of N. rossii in 2007 was almost identical with that in 1979 (mean abundance 118.66). The most abundant in this host were A. megarhynchus, M. johnstoni, C. hamanni and C. pseudohamanni (mean abundances 36.36, 29.77, 13.86 and 44.73, respectively). In total Echinorhynchida were more abundant than Polymorphida in 2007/08 (66.18 versus 58.91). Reverse situation was in 1979 (mean abundance 47.36 for Echinorhynchida and 71.3 for Polymorphida. Only 7 L. nudifrons were examined in 2007/08 and Echinorhynchida were more numerous in this host (mean abundance 26.71) than Polymorphida (10.29). Single specimens of other fish were infected with a few Acanthocephala belonging to species recorded in the same hosts with those found in 1978/79.
Detection of Dirofilaria immitis in mid-western arid Argentina
Authors: Cuervo Pablo , Mera y Sierra Roberto , Waisman Viviana , Gerbeno Leticia , Sidoti Laura , Albonico Francesca , Mariconti Mara , Mortarino Michele , Pepe Paola , Cringoli Giuseppe , Genchi Claudio , Rinaldi Laura
Published: December 2013

Dirofilariosis, caused by Dirofilaria immitis and D. repens, is (re-) emerging worldwide. Dogs are the main reservoirs, while human infection has recently become an important focus of interest and attention. In Argentina, canine D. immitis infection has been described in eastern and northern subtropical and temperate humid regions, but never reported in mid-western arid regions so far. In this research note we report for the first time the occurrence of autochthonous human and canine D. immitis infection in the region.
First report of Eucoleus boehmi in red foxes (Vulpis vulpis) in Denmark, based on coprological examination
Authors: Al-Sabi Mohammad , Kapel Christian
Published: December 2013

Red foxes can be infected with diverse range of parasite species that can be transmitted to humans and pet animals, and the differential diagnosis is essential for veterinary and zoonotic risk assessment. In the present study, faecal flotation and microscopy of parasite eggs was done on 31 foxes originating from two distant localities in Denmark, the city of Copenhagen in the north east part of the island Zealand and from the southern part of the peninsular Jutland. In total, eggs of Eucoleus boehmi were recovered from a surprisingly high number of foxes (n = 22 samples; 71%). The findings represent the first observations of E. boehmi in Denmark, which is likely an overlooked infection of the upper respiratory tract of red foxes, which can be also found in other canids. Several morphological features of the eggs of E. boehmi can be used to distinguish it from other the closely related trichuroid eggs. Detecting cardiopulmonary parasites by faecal examination can be indicative of the presence of cardiopulmonary parasites based on the more sensitive post mortem analysis.
Proposed Guidelines for International Clinical Education in US-Based Physical Therapist Education Programs: Results of a Focus Group and Delphi Study
Authors: Pechak Celia M. , Black Jill D.
Published: December 2013

Background

Physical therapist students are increasingly engaging in international clinical education (ICE). The growth of international engagement has been accompanied by appeals to ensure that these experiences are conducted in an ethical manner. Although detailed guidelines have been developed to guide global health training in general, they do not specifically address all aspects relevant to ICE in physical therapist education.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to systematically develop recommendations for the implementation of ICE in physical therapist education to promote ethical practice.

Methods

An initial virtual focus group of 5 physical therapist faculty with expertise in ICE provided input to review and revise global health training guidelines previously developed by non–physical therapists. The revised guidelines were distributed to a pool of 19 physical therapist faculty with ICE experience for additional review and revision through 3 online Delphi survey rounds.

Results

The participants accepted 31 of the original guidelines with or without revisions, rejected 2 guidelines, and developed 10 new guidelines or subguidelines. Most notably, they rejected a guideline related to students pursuing training outside of a structured program, stressing that ICE should never be done outside of a formal program.

Limitations

The primary limitation is that the study included only faculty from sending institutions and thus lacked the voices of the host institutions, students, partner organizations, or funders.

Conclusions

This study systematically produced guidelines for ICE in physical therapist education using a range of ICE experts from sending institutions. The recommendations may be used by educators and other decision makers to optimally design new ICE opportunities or to improve existing ones. Additional validation should be done to ensure relevance for all stakeholders.
Gender and Citizenship Center Stage
Authors: Hafez Sherine
Published: December 2013

Sondra Hale’s deep and long-term relationship with Sudan has produced a substantial body of scholarship that has transformed the anthropology of gender in the Middle East. She argues in her work that a version of Islamic citizenship was articulated by Hassan al-Turabi’s Islamist government in Sudan in the 1990s to shape society’s notion of the ideal Muslim woman. This essay looks at Hale’s work on women’s citizenship in Sudan to examine the constitution of this notion and how it shapes women’s citizenship in post-Arab Spring Egypt. My aims are to explore the various conflicting powers through which ideals of women’s citizenship in Egypt after the revolution are produced and to problematize Hale’s notion of citizenship to better understand the role that Islamism plays in shaping these gendered political subjectivities.
The Waive of the Future? School Accountability in the Waiver Era
Authors: Polikoff Morgan S. , McEachin Andrew J. , Wrabel Stephani L. , Duque Matthew
Published: December 2013

Forty-two states and the District of Columbia have recently received waivers to the school accountability requirements of the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB). As the prospects for reauthorizing the Act in the near term are dim, these new accountability systems will be law for at least several years. Drawing on a four-part framework from the measurement literature, we describe and critique the approved waiver accountability plans, comparing them to the NCLB accountability rules. We find a mixed bag—some states have made large improvements and others have not. Overall we conclude that states missed opportunities to design more effective school accountability systems that might minimize negative unintended consequences of these policies. The article concludes with suggestions for state and federal policy in light of the available literature.
A Review of Deaths in Custody in Three Canadian Provinces
Authors: Antonowicz Daniel , Winterdyk John
Published: December 2013

In-custody deaths have garnered considerable attention in recent years, both within Canada and internationally. This study represents the first examination of death-in-custody cases across three provinces – Alberta, British Columbia, and Ontario – between 2000 and 2009. To provide context, the article reviews deaths in custody in several international jurisdictions. The objective of this project was to identify baseline indicators of the nature and extent of custody deaths in Canada. Using all completed cases from the offices of Medical Examiners and Coroners, this paper compares and contrasts the manner and causes of death by type of custody (provincial vs. federal) and further compares the mortality trends (natural vs. non-natural) between the provinces. The results and findings from this comparison are then examined and the implications for policy makers are identified. Most of the recommendations relate to improved intake and more sophisticated pre-screening strategies for inmates.
Failure Analysis of a Hardened Steel Clamping Head
Authors: Atapek Ş. Hakan , Zeren Muzaffer , Kahrıman Fulya
Published: December 2013

In this study, fracture analysis of a eutectoid steel used as material for a clamping head and which failed in service was carried out to investigate the effect of heat treatment and also the microstructural features on the failure. The fracture surface was initially examined by scanning electron microscopy to determine the fracture type and possible paths for crack propagation. In the next step, the cross section of the steel was prepared by metallographical techniques and the matrix phases were determined using light microscope in etched condition. The steel surface exhibited a mixed fracture consisting of typical intergranular and quasi-cleavage fracture. The matrix showed segregation regions as band structure and included retained austenite in addition to martensite. Furthermore, several internal cracks were observed in the matrix due to the quenching effect, and the martensitic regions were very effective on the formation of intergranular fracture. Retained austenite possibly plays an important role in forming quasi-cleavage fracture during service loading.
Improvement of Surface Properties of Nickel-Based Superalloys Grade Haynes 214 by Pack Aluminizing
Authors: Keeratimas Pasuta , Visuttipitukul Patama , Wangyao Panyawat
Published: December 2013

This research studied mechanical properties and oxidation resistance of Haynes 214 after pack aluminizing. The Haynes 214 samples were heat treated at various temperatures (973 K, 1073 K and 1173 K) for 1, 1.25, 4 and 6.25 hours, respectively. After aluminizing, there were two layers at the surface: the inner layer (Ni2Al3) located adjacent to Haynes 214 substrate and the outer layer (Ni2Al3 and NiAl3) at the surface. After aluminizing, surface hardness significantly increases from about 250 HV of substrate to more than 570 HV. With increasing hardness, wear resistance of aluminized samples can also be improved as can be seen from decreasing the specific wear rate from 2.24 × 10−6 g N−1m−1 to 7.6 × 10−7 g N−1m−1 after aluminizing. Cyclic oxidation tests of Haynes 214 with and without aluminizing show that both of them have good oxidation resistance due to slow growth rate of oxide film.
Hazard assessment of glacial lake outburst floods from Kyagar glacier, Karakoram mountains, China
Authors: Haemmig Christoph , Huss Matthias , Keusen Hansrudolf , Hess Josef , Wegmüller Urs , Ao Zhigang , Kulubayi Wubuli
Published: December 2013

Kyagar glacier is located in the Chinese Karakoram mountains. The glacier tongue entirely blocks the riverbed in the upper Shaksgam valley and impounds a glacial lake, which was the source of several violent and disastrous glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs). A GLOF early warning system was implemented between 2011 and 2013. We present an integrative analysis of the hazard potential of Kyagar lake, taking into account the ice flow dynamics of Kyagar glacier as well as the recent surface mass-balance response to climate change. Comparison of two high-resolution digital elevation models (DEMs) for the ice dam shows surface lowering rates of >5ma– 1 between 2002 and 2011, leading to a significant reduction in the maximum potential lake volume. However, two DEMs covering the entire glacier for the period 2000–10 indicate mass gains in its central part, and flow speed measurements show an acceleration in this region. This pattern of local ice-thickness changes combined with varying ice flow velocities is typical for surge-type glaciers. The velocity of the glacier surface and of the ice dam between 2011 and 2012 are analyzed at high temporal and spatial resolution, based on feature tracking of synthetic aperture radar (SAR) images.
Future fluctuations of Mer de Glace, French Alps, assessed using a parameterized model calibrated with past thickness changes
Authors: Vincent C. , Harter M. , Gilbert A. , Berthier E. , SIX D.
Published: December 2013

Simulations of glacier evolution are needed to assess future changes in the runoff regime of mountain catchments. A simplified parameterized model is applied here to simulate future thickness changes and glacier retreat of Mer de Glace, French Alps. A normalized thickness change function describing the spatial distribution of surface-elevation changes as a function of elevation has been determined. The model reveals that under present climatic conditions Mer de Glace will continue to shrink dramatically in the coming decades, retreating by 1200 m between now and 2040. The method has certain limitations related to the uncertainties of the normalized function based on thickness change data. An error of 10% in the normalized function leads to uncertainties of 46%, 30% and 18% in Mer de Glace front, surface area and glacier-wide mass-balance changes respectively in 2040. Because the difference of the normalized function largely exceeds 10% from one glacier to another, even within a given glacier size class and elevation range, it would be very risky to extrapolate the normalized function to unmeasured glaciers. Consequently, the method is applicable only on glaciers where past surface elevation changes are well constrained.
Effect of Kalajira on Lipid Profile in Normal & Hypercholesterolemic Rats
Authors: Ara Shahin , Habib Md Anwar , Rashid MU
Published: December 2013

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/ibmcj.v2i1.17309 IBMC J 2011; 2(1): 08-10
Infection Rate of Percutaneous Kirschner Wire Fixation for Open Colle's Fracture
Authors: Rashid Md Abdur , Pramanik Md Abul Kasem , Haidary MH , Haque M Enamul
Published: December 2013

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/ibmcj.v2i1.17310 IBMC J 2011; 2(1): 11-13
The Great British Music Hall: Its Importance to British Culture and ‘The Trivial’
Authors: Gerrard Steven
Published: December 2013

By 1960, Britain’s once-thriving Music Hall industry was virtually dead. Theatres with their faded notions of Empire gave way to Cinema and the threat of Television. Where thousands once linked arms singing popular songs, watch acrobatics, see feats of strength, and listen to risqué jokes, now the echoes of those acts lay as whispers amongst the stalls’ threadbare seats.

The Halls flourished in the 19th Century, but had their origins in the taverns of the 16th and 17th Centuries. Minstrels plied their trade egged on by drunken crowds. As time passed, the notoriety of the Music Hall acts and camaraderie produced grew. Entrepreneurial businessman tapped into this commerciality and had purpose-built status symbol theatres to provide a ‘home’ for acts and punters. With names like The Apollo giving gravitas approaching Olympian ideals, so the owners basked in wealth and glory.

The Music Hall became the mass populist entertainment for the population. Every town had one, where everyone could be entertained by variety acts showing off the performers’ skills. The acts varied from singers, joke-tellers, comics, acrobats, to dancers. They all aimed to entertain. They enabled audiences to share a symbiotic relationship with one another; became recruitment officers for the Army; inspired War Poets; showed short films; and they and the halls reflected both the ideals and foibles of their era.

By using Raymond Williams’ structures of feeling as its cornerstone, the article will give a brief history of the halls, whilst providing analysis into how they grew into mass populist entertainment that represented British culture. Case studies of famous artistes are given, plus an insight into how Music Hall segued into radio, film and television.
Becoming Trivial: The Book Trailer
Authors: Voigt Kati
Published: December 2013

Despite the introduction of audiobooks and e-books, printed stories still are in high demand. However, in a globalized world which is more and more ruled by mass media and technology, it is increasingly difficult for writers and publishers to promote their books. The solution is almost ironic: popular media, which is assumed to decrease readership, is turned into a tool to increase the number of readers. In 2002 the book trailer emerged as a new web-based marketing strategy for the launch of new books. Since then the appearance of the book trailer has changed considerably. The article examines specific examples and highlights methods that establish the relationship between the content of the book and its representation in the book trailer. Although guidelines apply for the production of book trailers, such as constraints relating to time and content, there are no limitations for the imagination of the producers. A book trailer may be simple, supported only by music and pictures, but they may also be as complex as short films. Additionally, book trailers are not limited to the promotion of one specific genre or age group. Depending on the viral potential of social networks such as YouTube, Facebook, and Tumblr book trailers reach a global audience and, therefore, open up new markets. It can be argued, while book trailers have not yet reached the realm of the everyday, they will gradually come to the attention of academics and this article wants to present a starting point for this development.
Numerical Optimal Control of Turbo Dynamic Ventricular Assist Devices
Authors: Amacher Raffael , Asprion Jonas , Ochsner Gregor , Tevaearai Hendrik , Wilhelm Markus , Plass André , Amstutz Alois , Vandenberghe Stijn , Daners Marianne
Published: December 2013

The current paper presents a methodology for the derivation of optimal operating strategies for turbo dynamic ventricular assist devices (tVADs). In current clinical practice, tVADs are typically operated at a constant rotational speed, resulting in a blood flow with a low pulsatility. Recent research in the field has aimed at optimizing the interaction between the tVAD and the cardiovascular system by using predefined periodic speed profiles. In the current paper, we avoid the limitation of using predefined profiles by formulating an optimal-control problem based on a mathematical model of the cardiovascular system and the tVAD. The optimal-control problem is solved numerically, leading to cycle-synchronized speed profiles, which are optimal with respect to an arbitrary objective. Here, an adjustable trade-off between the maximization of the flow through the aortic valve and the minimization of the left-ventricular stroke work is chosen. The optimal solutions perform better than constant-speed or sinusoidal-speed profiles for all cases studied. The analysis of optimized solutions provides insight into the optimized interaction between the tVAD and the cardiovascular system. The numerical approach to the optimization of this interaction represents a powerful tool with applications in research related to tVAD control. Furthermore, patient-specific, optimized VAD actuation strategies can potentially be derived from this approach.
Bayesian Reliability Estimation for Deteriorating Systems with Limited Samples Using the Maximum Entropy Approach
Authors: Xiao Ning-Cong , Li Yan-Feng , Wang Zhonglai , Peng Weiwen , Huang Hong-Zhong
Published: December 2013

In this paper the combinations of maximum entropy method and Bayesian inference for reliability assessment of deteriorating system is proposed. Due to various uncertainties, less data and incomplete information, system parameters usually cannot be determined precisely. These uncertainty parameters can be modeled by fuzzy sets theory and the Bayesian inference which have been proved to be useful for deteriorating systems under small sample sizes. The maximum entropy approach can be used to calculate the maximum entropy density function of uncertainty parameters more accurately for it does not need any additional information and assumptions. Finally, two optimization models are presented which can be used to determine the lower and upper bounds of systems probability of failure under vague environment conditions. Two numerical examples are investigated to demonstrate the proposed method.
Economic Impact of Food Safety Outbreaks on Food Businesses
Authors: Hussain Malik , Dawson Christopher
Published: December 2013

A globalized food trade, extensive production and complex supply chains are contributing toward an increased number of microbiological food safety outbreaks. Moreover, the volume of international food trade has increased to become very large. All of these factors are putting pressure on the food companies to meet global demand in order to be competitive. This scenario could force manufacturers to be lenient toward food safety control intentionally, or unintentionally, and result in a major foodborne outbreak that causes health problems and economic loss. The estimated cost of food safety incidents for the economy of the United States is around $7 billion per year which comes from notifying consumers, removing food from shelves, and paying damages as a result of lawsuits. Most other countries similarly have economic losses. Much of these losses represent lost markets, loss of consumer demand, litigation and company closures. Concrete steps are needed to improve safety of foods produced for local or overseas markets to avoid unexpected food scandals and economic losses.
Waterpipe Smoking among Middle and High School Jordanian Students: Patterns and Predictors
Authors: Alzyoud Sukaina , Weglicki Linda , Kheirallah Khalid , Haddad Linda , Alhawamdeh Khalid
Published: December 2013

Despite the increase in attention to waterpipe tobacco smoking, the patterns and predictors of this method of tobacco use among Jordanian youth are not well known. The current study was conducted to assess the patterns and the predictors of waterpipe tobacco smoking among school aged students in one of Jordan’s Central Governorates. A cross-sectional survey was conducted to investigate the patterns and predictors of waterpipe tobacco smoking among youth (grades 6, 8, 10 and 12). Using a multistage random sampling more than 1,000 students was selected. Data were collected using the Arabic Youth Tobacco Use Composite Measure (YTUCM). Waterpipe smoking was assessed for “past 12 months”, “past month” and “past week”. Students’ ages ranged from 11 to 18 years, (mean age ± 14.7; SD ± 1.9 years). The percentage of girls who smoked waterpipe was greater for all frequencies of use than it was for boys. Age, gender, and belief that smoking makes more friends were predictors of smoking among study participants. This is the first known study to examine waterpipe smoking among youth aged 11 and 12. Our findings illustrate the need for public health campaigns to reach and educate youth, their families, teachers and school systems regarding the growing recognized health risks of waterpipe smoking.
Can Smartphones Enhance Telephone-Based Cognitive Assessment (TBCA)?
Authors: Kwan Rick , Lai Claudia
Published: December 2013

TBCA has emerged to solve the limitations of administering cognitive assessments face-to-face. The recent development of telephones and knowledge advances in the area of cognitive impairment may affect the development of TBCA. The purpose of this paper is to discuss how smartphones can be used to enhance the applicability of TBCA, which has previously been administered by conventional telephone. This paper will first review, describe and critique the existing TBCA instruments. It will then discuss the recent developments in tele-technology, the popularity of tele-technology among the elderly, potential benefits and challenges in using smartphones for cognitive assessment, and possible future developments in this technology. In the systematic review, eighteen TBCA instruments were identified. They were found to be valid in differentiating between people with and without dementia. TBCA was previously found to be launched on a conventional telephone platform. The advances in understanding of cognitive impairment may demand that telephones be equipped with more advanced features. Recently, the development and penetration of smartphones among the elderly has been rapid. This may allow the smartphone to enhance its TBCA applicability by overcoming the limitations of the conventional telephone, rendering the TBCA more efficient in addressing the increasing demand and complexity of cognitive assessments in the future. However, more research and technology developments are needed before smartphones can become a valid platform for TBCA.
Assessment of Natural Radioactivity Levels of Cements and Cement Composites in the Slovak Republic
Authors: Eštoková Adriana , Palaščáková Lenka
Published: December 2013

The radionuclide activities of 226Ra, 232Th and 40K and radiological parameters (radium equivalent activity, gamma and alpha indices, the absorbed gamma dose rate and external and internal hazard indices) of cements and cement composites commonly used in the Slovak Republic have been studied in this paper. The cement samples of 8 types of cements from Slovak cement plants and five types of composites made from cement type CEM I were analyzed in the experiment. The radionuclide activities in the cements ranged from 8.58–19.1 Bq·kg−1, 9.78–26.3 Bq·kg−1 and 156.5–489.4 Bq·kg−1 for 226Ra, 232Th and 40K, respectively. The radiological parameters in cement samples were calculated as follows: mean radium equivalent activity Raeq = 67.87 Bq·kg−1, gamma index Iγ = 0.256, alpha index Iα = 0.067, the absorbed gamma dose rate D = 60.76 nGy·h−1, external hazard index Hex = 0.182 and internal hazard index Hin was 0.218. The radionuclide activity in composites ranged from 6.84–10.8 Bq·kg−1 for 226Ra, 13.1–20.5 Bq·kg−1 for 232Th and 250.4–494.4 Bq·kg−1 for 40K. The calculated radiological parameters of cements were lower than calculated radiological parameters of cement composites.
EZH2 Down-Regulation Exacerbates Lipid Accumulation and Inflammation in in Vitro and in Vivo NAFLD
Authors: Vella Serena , Gnani Daniela , Crudele Annalisa , Ceccarelli Sara , De Stefanis Cristiano , Gaspari Stefania , Nobili Valerio , Locatelli Franco , Marquez Victor , Rota Rossella , Alisi Anna
Published: December 2013

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is one of the most prevalent, chronic liver diseases, worldwide. It is a multifactorial disease caused by complex interactions between genetic, epigenetic and environmental factors. Recently, several microRNAs, some of which epigenetically regulated, have been found to be up- and/or down-regulated during NAFLD development. However, in NAFLD, the essential role of the Polycomb Group protein Enhancer of Zeste Homolog 2 (EZH2), which controls the epigenetic silencing of specific genes and/or microRNAs by trimethylating Lys27 on histone H3, still remains unknown. In this study, we demonstrate that the nuclear expression/activity of the EZH2 protein is down-regulated both in livers from NAFLD rats and in the free fatty acid-treated HepG2. The drop in EZH2 is inversely correlated with: (i) lipid accumulation; (ii) the expression of pro-inflammatory markers including TNF-α and TGF-β; and (iii) the expression of miR-200b and miR-155. Consistently, the pharmacological inhibition of EZH2 by 3-Deazaneplanocin A (DZNep) significantly reduces EZH2 expression/activity, while it increases lipid accumulation, inflammatory molecules and microRNAs. In conclusion, the results of this study suggest that the defective activity of EZH2 can enhance the NAFLD development by favouring steatosis and the de-repression of the inflammatory genes and that of specific microRNAs.
Screening Mangrove Endophytic Fungi for Antimalarial Natural Products
Authors: Calcul Laurent , Waterman Carrie , Ma Wai , Lebar Matthew , Harter Charles , Mutka Tina , Morton Lindsay , Maignan Patrick , Olphen Alberto , Kyle Dennis , Vrijmoed Lilian , Pang Ka-Lai , Pearce Cedric , Baker Bill
Published: December 2013

We conducted a screening campaign to investigate fungi as a source for new antimalarial compounds. A subset of our fungal collection comprising Chinese mangrove endophytes provided over 5000 lipophilic extracts. We developed an accelerated discovery program based on small-scale cultivation for crude extract screening and a high-throughput malaria assay. Criteria for hits were developed and high priority hits were subjected to scale-up cultivation. Extracts from large scale cultivation were fractionated and these fractions subjected to both in vitro malaria and cytotoxicity screening. Criteria for advancing fractions to purification were developed, including the introduction of a selectivity index and by dereplication of known metabolites. From the Chinese mangrove endophytes, four new compounds (14–16, 18) were isolated including a new dimeric tetrahydroxanthone, dicerandrol D (14), which was found to display the most favorable bioactivity profile.
Identification of Four New agr Quorum Sensing-Interfering Cyclodepsipeptides from a Marine Photobacterium
Authors: Kjaerulff Louise , Nielsen Anita , Mansson Maria , Gram Lone , Larsen Thomas , Ingmer Hanne , Gotfredsen Charlotte
Published: December 2013

During our search for new natural products from the marine environment, we discovered a wide range of cyclic peptides from a marine Photobacterium, closely related to P. halotolerans. The chemical fingerprint of the bacterium showed primarily non-ribosomal peptide synthetase (NRPS)-like compounds, including the known pyrrothine antibiotic holomycin and a wide range of peptides, from diketopiperazines to cyclodepsipeptides of 500–900 Da. Purification of components from the pellet fraction led to the isolation and structure elucidation of four new cyclodepsipeptides, ngercheumicin F, G, H, and I. The ngercheumicins interfered with expression of virulence genes known to be controlled by the agr quorum sensing system of Staphylococcus aureus, although to a lesser extent than the previously described solonamides from the same strain of Photobacterium.
In Vitro Action of Flavonoids in the Canine Malignant Histiocytic Cell Line DH82
Authors: Silva Gabriel , Fachin Ana , Beleboni Renê , França Suzelei , Marins Mozart
Published: December 2013

Cancer is commonly diagnosed in dogs over the age of 10 and is a leading cause of death due to the lack of effective drugs. Flavonoids possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anticarcinogenic properties and have been studied as chemopreventive agents in human cancer therapy. However, the literature on dogs is sparse. In this study, we analyzed the effect of nine flavonoids on cell viability, DNA damage and topoisomerase IIa/IIb gene expression in a canine tumor cell line (DH82). Apigenin, luteolin, trans-chalcone and 4-methoxychalcone showed the highest degree of cytotoxicity in the absence of considerable DNA damage, whereas genistein exhibited low cytotoxicity but induced a high level of DNA damage. These five flavonoids inhibited topoisomerase IIa and IIb gene expression to variable extents and with variable specificity. Genistein exerted a lower inhibitory effect on the two topoisomerases than luteolin and apigenin. trans-Chalcone and 4-methoxychalcone exerted greater inhibition of topoisomerase IIa expression than topoisomerase IIb. The differences in the effects between genistein and luteolin and apigenin might be explained by the position of ring B, whereas the more specific effect of chalcones on topoisomerase IIa might be due to their open chain structure.
Osteogenic Activity of Collagen Peptide via ERK/MAPK Pathway Mediated Boosting of Collagen Synthesis and Its Therapeutic Efficacy in Osteoporotic Bone by Back-Scattered Electron Imaging and Microarchitecture Analysis
Authors: Kim Hye , Kim Myung-Gyou , Leem Kang-Hyun
Published: December 2013

Collagen hydrolysate (CH) has been reported to exhibit a positive effect on bone. In the present study, the in vitro effects of CH (<3 kDa) were examined and the in vivo experiments confirmed the positive effects of CH in ovariectomized (OVX) rats. Bone mineral density (BMD) was examined by DXA analysis. Scanning electron microscopic analysis and quantitative 3D-color backscattered electrons imaging analysis were performed on the lumbar vertebrae. CH increased osteoblastic cell proliferation and alkaline phosphatase activity in a dose-dependent manner. Collagen synthesis and collagen, type1, alpha1 (COL1A1) gene expression were also increased by CH treatment. Furthermore, CH-induced COL1A1 gene expression was completely abolished by extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) inhibitor, suggesting the involvement of ERK/MAPK signaling for transcriptional effects on COL1A1 expression. OVX rats supplemented with CH showed osteoprotective effects as the BMD levels were increased compared with control. Moreover, CH prevented the trabecular bone loss induced by OVX and improved the microarchitecture of lumbar vertebrae. CH administration dose-dependently reduced the serum procollagen type I N-terminal propeptide level, which was elevated by OVX. The present study suggests that CH isolated in this study is a promising alternative to current therapeutic agents for the management of osteoporosis.