bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Zearalenone and Its Derivatives α-Zearalenol and β-Zearalenol Decontamination by Saccharomyces cerevisiae Strains Isolated from Bovine Forage
Authors: Keller Luiz , Abrunhosa Luís , Keller Kelly , Rosa Carlos , Cavaglieri Lilia , Venâncio Armando
Published: August 2015

Zearalenone (ZEA) and its derivatives are mycotoxins with estrogenic effects on mammals. The biotransformation for ZEA in animals involves the formation of two major metabolites, α- and β-zearalenol (α-ZOL and β-ZOL), which are subsequently conjugated with glucuronic acid. The capability of Saccharomyces cerevisiae strains isolated from silage to eliminate ZEA and its derivatives α-ZOL and β-ZOL was investigated as, also, the mechanisms involved. Strains were grown on Yeast Extract-Peptone-Dextrose medium supplemented with the mycotoxins and their elimination from medium was quantified over time by HPLC-FL. A significant effect on the concentration of ZEA was observed, as all the tested strains were able to eliminate more than 90% of the mycotoxin from the culture medium in two days. The observed elimination was mainly due to ZEA biotransformation into β-ZOL (53%) and α-ZOL (8%) rather than to its adsorption to yeast cells walls. Further, the biotransformation of α-ZOL was not observed but a small amount of β-ZOL (6%) disappeared from culture medium. ZEA biotransformation by yeasts may not be regarded as a full detoxification process because both main end-products are still estrogenic. Nonetheless, it was observed that the biotransformation favors the formation of β-ZOL which is less estrogenic than ZEA and α-ZOL. This metabolic effect is only possible if active strains are used as feed additives and may play a role in the detoxification performance of products with viable S. cerevisiae cells.
Presence of Multiple Mycotoxins and Other Fungal Metabolites in Native Grasses from a Wetland Ecosystem in Argentina Intended for Grazing Cattle
Authors: Nichea María , Palacios Sofia , Chiacchiera Stella , Sulyok Michael , Krska Rudolf , Chulze Sofia , Torres Adriana , Ramirez María
Published: August 2015

The aim of this study was to evaluate the occurrence of several fungal metabolites, including mycotoxins in natural grasses (Poaceae) intended for grazing cattle. A total number of 72 and 77 different metabolites were detected on 106 and 69 grass samples collected during 2011 and 2014, respectively. A total of 60 metabolites were found across both years. Among the few mycotoxins considered toxic for ruminants, no samples of natural grasses were contaminated with aflatoxins, ochratoxin A, ergot alkaloids, and gliotoxin, among others. However, we were able to detect important metabolites (toxic to ruminants) such as type A trichothecenes, mainly T-2 toxin and HT-2 toxin (up to 5000 µg/kg each), and zearalenone (up to 2000 µg/kg), all at very high frequencies and levels. Other fungal metabolites that were found to be prevalent were other Fusarium metabolites like beauvericin, equisetin and aurofusarin, metabolites produced by Alternaria spp., sterigmatocystin and its precursors and anthrachinone derivatives. It is important to point out that the profile of common metabolites was shared during both years of sampling, and also that the occurrence of important metabolites is not a sporadic event. Considering that this area of temperate grassland is used for grazing cattle all year long due to the richness in palatable grasses (Poaceae), the present work represents a starting point for further studies on the occurrence of multi-mycotoxins in natural grasses in order to have a complete picture of the extent of cattle exposure. Also, the present study shows that the presence of zeranol in urine of beef cattle may not be a consequence of illegal use of this banned substance, but the product of the natural occurrence of zearalenone and α-zearalenol in natural grasses intended for cattle feeding.
Artificial TALE as a Convenient Protein Platform for Engineering Broad-Spectrum Resistance to Begomoviruses
Authors: Cheng Xiaofei , Li Fangfang , Cai Jianyu , Chen Wei , Zhao Nan , Sun Yuqiang , Guo Yushuang , Yang Xiuling , Wu Xiaoyun
Published: August 2015

Transcription activator–like effectors (TALEs) are a class of sequence-specific DNA-binding proteins that utilize a simple and predictable modality to recognize target DNA. This unique characteristic allows for the rapid assembly of artificial TALEs, with high DNA binding specificity, to any target DNA sequences for the creation of customizable sequence-specific nucleases used in genome engineering. Here, we report the use of an artificial TALE protein as a convenient platform for designing broad-spectrum resistance to begomoviruses, one of the most destructive plant virus groups, which cause tremendous losses worldwide. We showed that artificial TALEs, which were assembled based on conserved sequence motifs within begomovirus genomes, could confer partial resistance in transgenic Nicotiana benthamiana to all three begomoviruses tested. Furthermore, the resistance was maintained even in the presence of their betasatellite. These results shed new light on the development of broad-spectrum resistance against DNA viruses, such as begomoviruses.
Oral Application of T4 Phage Induces Weak Antibody Production in the Gut and in the Blood
Authors: Majewska Joanna , Beta Weronika , Lecion Dorota , Hodyra-Stefaniak Katarzyna , Kłopot Anna , Kaźmierczak Zuzanna , Miernikiewicz Paulina , Piotrowicz Agnieszka , Ciekot Jarosław , Owczarek Barbara , Kopciuch Agnieszka , Wojtyna Karolina , Harhala Marek , Mąkosa Mateusz , Dąbrowska Krystyna
Published: August 2015

A specific humoral response to bacteriophages may follow phage application for medical purposes, and it may further determine the success or failure of the approach itself. We present a long-term study of antibody induction in mice by T4 phage applied per os: 100 days of phage treatment followed by 112 days without the phage, and subsequent second application of phage up to day 240. Serum and gut antibodies (IgM, IgG, secretory IgA) were analyzed in relation to microbiological status of the animals. T4 phage applied orally induced anti-phage antibodies when the exposure was long enough (IgG day 36, IgA day 79); the effect was related to high dosage. Termination of phage treatment resulted in a decrease of IgA again to insignificant levels. Second administration of phage induces secretory IgA sooner than that induced by the first administrations. Increased IgA level antagonized gut transit of active phage. Phage resistant E. coli dominated gut flora very late, on day 92. Thus, the immunological response emerges as a major factor determining phage survival in the gut. Phage proteins Hoc and gp12 were identified as highly immunogenic. A low response to exemplary foreign antigens (from Ebola virus) presented on Hoc was observed, which suggests that phage platforms can be used in oral vaccine design.
Simple New Method of Detecting Lies By Identifying Invisible Unique Physiological Reflex Response Appearing Often Less Than 10-15 Seconds on the Specific Parts of Face of Lying Person; Quick Screening of Potential Murderers & Problematic Persons
Authors: Omura Yoshiaki , Nihrane Abdallah , Lu Dominic , Jones Marilyn K. , Shimotsuura Yasuhiro , Ohki Motomu
Published: August 2015

Frequently, we cannot find any significant visible changes when somebody lies, but we found there are significant invisible changes appearing in specific areas of the face when somebody lies and their location often depends on whether the lie is serious with or without physical violence
involvement. These abnormalities were detected non-invasively at areas: 1) 3 brain-related areas of face a) pupils of right & left eyes with b) both ear lobules and c) a small round area of each upper lateral side of forehead; 2) the skin between the base of the 2 orifices of the nose
and the upper end of upper lip and 3) Alae of both sides of nose. These invisible significant changes usually last less than 15 seconds after telling a lie. In these areas, Bi-Digital O-Ring Test (BDORT), which received a U.S. Patent in 1993, became significantly weak with an abnormal value
of (-)7 and TXB2, measured non-invasively, was increased from 0.125∼0.5ng to 12.5∼15ng (within the first 5 seconds) and then went back down to less than 1ng (after 15 seconds). These unique changes can be documented semi-permanently by taking photographs of the face of people who tell
a lie, within as short as 10 seconds after saying a lying statement. These abnormal responses appear in one or more of the above-mentioned 3 areas 1), 2) & 3). At least one abnormal pupil with BDORT of (-)8∼(-)12 & marked reduction in Acetylcholine and abnormal increase in any
of 3 Alzheimer's disease associated factors Apolipoprotein (Apo) E4, β-Amyloid (1-42), Tau protein, viral and bacterial infections were detected in both pupils and forehead of murderers and people who often have problems with others. Analysis of well-known typical examples of recent mass
murderers was presented as examples. Using these findings, potential murderers and people who are very likely to develop problems with others can be screened within 5-10 minutes by examining their facial photographs and signatures before school admission or employment.
Clinical Outcomes and Capsular Bag Stability of a Four-Point Haptic Bitoric Intraocular Lens
Authors: Kretz Florian T. A. , Breyer Detlev , Klabe Karsten , Auffarth Gerd U. , Kaymak Hakan
Published: August 2015

PURPOSE:

To evaluate the visual, refractive, and aberrometric outcomes of a bitoric intraocular lens (IOL) and its stability and alignment within the capsular bag.

METHODS:

A retrospective study including 41 eyes of 24 patients with preexisting corneal astigmatism of 0.75 diopters or greater undergoing cataract surgery with implantation of the bitoric IOL AT TORBI 709M (Carl Zeiss Meditec, Jena, Germany). Visual and refractive outcomes were evaluated during a 3-month follow-up period. The misalignment between intended and real axis and the levels of corneal, internal, and ocular aberrations (KR-1W; Topcon, Tokyo, Japan) were also evaluated.

RESULTS:

A total of 76% and 97% of eyes had a postoperative spherical equivalent within ±0.50 and ±1.00 diopters of emmetropia, respectively. Likewise, a total of 86% and 95% of eyes had a postoperative absolute value of refractive cylinder of 0.50 or less and 1.00 or less diopters, respectively. Mean postoperative corrected distance visual acuity was 0.00 logMAR (20/20 Snellen). Mean values of postoperative monocular and binocular uncorrected distance visual acuity were 0.10 and 0.00 logMAR (20/25 and 20/20 Snellen), respectively. The aberrometric analysis confirmed that the magnitude of ocular higher-order aberrations was mainly due to corneal optics and that the corneal astigmatism correction was sufficient with the toric IOL. Mean absolute IOL misalignment was 3.5° with values ranging from 0° to 10°.

CONCLUSIONS:

The bitoric IOL AT TORBI 709M is able to provide a predictable correction of corneal astigmatism with low postoperative levels of ocular higher-order aberrations.

[
J Refract Surg.
2015;31(7):431–436.]
Comparison of Corneal Epithelial Thickness Measurement Between Fourier-Domain OCT and Very High-Frequency Digital Ultrasound
Authors: Reinstein Dan Z. , Yap Timothy E. , Archer Timothy J. , Gobbe Marine , Silverman Ronald H.
Published: August 2015

PURPOSE:

To compare measurements of corneal epithelial thickness using optical coherence tomography (OCT) and very high-frequency digital ultrasound (VHFDU).

METHODS:

Retrospective analysis of 189 virgin corneas and 175 post-laser refractive surgery (LRS) corneas that had corneal epithelial thickness measurement with RTVue Fourier-domain OCT (Optovue, Inc., Fremont, CA) (tear film included) and Artemis VHFDU (ArcScan Inc., Morrison, CO) (tear film excluded). Averages were calculated for the central 2-mm diameter zone and for two further concentric annuli of 1.5- and 0.5-mm width, each divided into eight sectors. Agreement was analyzed by mean difference (OCT – VHFDU), 95% limits of agreement (LoA) (1.96 standard deviation of the difference), and Bland–Altman analysis.

RESULTS:

In virgin epithelium, mean central thickness was 53.4 ± 3.20
µ
m (range: 46 to 62
µ
m) with OCT and 54.1 ± 2.96
µ
m (range: 48 to 61
µ
m) with VHFDU; OCT measured thinnest in 70% with a mean difference of −0.71
µ
m (95% LoA of ±3.94
µ
m,
P
< .001). In post-LRS epithelium, mean central thickness was 57.9 ± 6.08
µ
m (range: 42 to 77
µ
m) with OCT and 60.5 ± 6.47
µ
m (range: 42 to 79
µ
m) with VHFDU; OCT measured thinnest in 88%, with a mean difference of −2.48
µ
m (95% LoA of ±5.33
µ
m,
P
< .001). A larger difference between methods was more common with thicker epithelium.

CONCLUSIONS:

Corneal epithelial thickness measurements using OCT were found to be slightly thinner than for VHFDU. In contrast to VHFDU, OCT measurement includes the tear film, so the true difference is probably approximately 4
µ
m more than reported. The difference was greatest inferiorly and higher for post-LRS eyes and in thicker epithelium.

[
J Refract Surg.
2015;31(7):438–445.]
Changes in Aqueous Humor pH After Femtosecond Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery
Authors: Rossi Marco , Di Censo Fabio , Di Censo Matteo , Oum Muna Al
Published: August 2015

PURPOSE:

To compare aqueous humor pH values in patients during femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery with patients during conventional phacoemulsification.

METHODS:

A prospective clinical study was conducted in 29 eyes of 29 patients who underwent cataract surgery by a single surgeon. The femtosecond laser group included 15 eyes operated on with a femtosecond laser platform (Catalys; Abbott Medical Optics, Santa Ana, CA) and the phacoemulsification group included 14 eyes that were operated on with conventional phacoemulsification. The femtosecond laser group was subdivided into low, medium, and high level of cavitation gas bubbles after docking and the femtosecond laser procedure, according to the judgment of the surgeon. Aqueous humor samples (0.10 to 0.15 mL) were collected through a paracentesis from each patient after docking, corneal incisions, and nucleus fragmentation in the femtosecond laser group and after corneal incisions but before injection of viscoelastic in the phacoemulsification group, then analyzed with a pH meter.

RESULTS:

The mean pH was 6.53 ± 0.09 (range: 6.42 to 6.70) and 7.42 ± 0.07 (range: 7.28 to 7.48) in the femtosecond laser and phacoemulsification groups, respectively (
P
< .001). In the femtosecond laser group, no significant differences in pH were observed between the three subgroups after docking and the femtosecond laser surgical procedure: low (6.55 ± 0.09 [range: 6.53 to 6.57]), medium (6.54 ± 0.07 [range: 6.52 to 6.55]), and high (6.42 ± 0.00 [range: 6.40 to 6.44]) level of gas bubbles.

CONCLUSIONS:

Cavitation bubbles derived from the photodisruption process in femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery lead to an acidic shift of the aqueous humor pH as a result of the transformation of carbon dioxide to carbonic acid. The level of gas bubbles visible after the laser photodisruption does not seem to correlate with this pH shift. Further analysis of femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery is necessary.

[
J Refract Surg.
2015;31(7):462–465.]
Los hemeróbidos de la Península Ibérica y Baleares (Insecta, Neuropterida, Neuroptera: Hemerobiidae)
Authors: Monserrat Víctor J.
Published: August 2015

Se revisan las especies de hemeróbidos presentes en la fauna de la Península Ibérica e Islas Baleares donde, hasta la fecha, está representada por 40 especies pertenecientes a 7 géneros. Tras una diagnosis de la familia y algunos elementos sobre su historial paleontológico y su distribución, se aportan unos datos generales sobre su morfología y su biología, sus estadios juveniles y comportamiento, y se comenta una breve introducción sobre la historia en el conocimiento de la familia, y en particular en la Península Ibérica y Baleares. Se incluye una lista de las especies pertenecientes a su fauna, una clave de identificación de los géneros, subgéneros y especies citadas en la Península Ibérica y Baleares, y una clave de sus larvas a nivel genérico. De cada una de estas especies se recopilan y se anotan todas las referencias bibliográficas existentes relativas a las especies de la zona estudiada, tanto con la denominación actualmente aceptada, como de sus sinonimias y/o cualquier otra combinación nomenclatural bajo las cuales han sido citadas. También de cada una de las especies se anotan los datos conocidos y los ahora anotados sobre su distribución general, aspectos de su morfología externa y genital, así como de su variabilidad, estadios juveniles, biología, fenología y distribución altitudinal y geográfica en la península y archipiélago balear, en base a un total de 5.338 ejemplares estudiados y aportando nuevo material inédito de 10 especies (con 341 nuevos ejemplares estudiados).
Nueva localidad de Bulinus truncatus (Audouin, 1827) (Gastropoda: Planorbidae), hospedador intermediario de Schistosoma haematobium, y su distribución en la península Ibérica
Authors: Dana Elías D. , García-de-Lomas Juan , Juan Bañón José L. , Esteban Encarnación , Grácio María A. A. , González-Miras Emilio , Rodríguez-Luque Francisco , Ceballos Guillermo
Published: August 2015

En este trabajo se reporta una nueva población de Bulinus truncatus (Audouin, 1827) (Gastropoda, Planorbidae) en la provincia de Almería (Sureste de España). Se trata de una especie que presenta considerable interés tanto zoológico como epidemiológico por su papel como hospedador intermediario de Schistosoma haematobium, responsable de la esquistosomiasis urogenital humana. Los ejemplares fueron determinados a nivel específico mediante PCR doble anidada, con un 100% de homología. Se trata de la población localizada más al Sureste y en condiciones de mayor aridez en la península Ibérica. Se recopilaron los datos de presencia publicados para conocer su distribución en la península. El conocimiento de la distribución de Bulinus truncatus es una pieza clave para evaluar el riesgo de nuevos focos de esquistosomiasis en la península Ibérica.
Diversidad de arañas (Araneae, Araneomorphae) en la selva de montaña: un caso de estudio en las Yungas Argentinas
Authors: Rubio Gonzalo D.
Published: August 2015

Se estudia la diversidad de arañas de vegetación de las yungas del noroeste argentino, integrando dos escalas: local (diversidad α, estructura de comunidades) y su proyección a diversidad regional (diversidad β). Se muestrearon 26 sitios en la provincia de Salta, representando diferentes ambientes/pisos altitudinales de yungas sensu stricto (SP= selva pedemontana, SM= selva montana, BM= bosque montano), yungas sensu lato (Cc-s= conectividad entre centro y sur de yungas, YT= yungas en transición) y sitios de Chaco Serrano (ChS) como contraste. Se realizaron muestreos estacionales durante un año, tomando 10 muestras con G-Vac (aspirador entomológico) sobre vegetación. Se obtuvo un total de 6412 ejemplares, representando 188 especies y 34 familias (sólo yungas). Theridiidae, Anyphaenidae y Linyphiidae fueron dominantes. La mayor riqueza correspondió a Araneidae, Salticidae y Theridiidae. Especies dominantes fueron Chibchea salta (Pholcidae), Dubiaranea msp111 (Linyphiidae) y Mysmena msp110 (Mysmenidae). Diferencias relevantes en composición y abundancia separan dos grupos de ambientes: (Cc-s+SP+YT+ChS) vs. (SM+BM). Dictynidae, Oxyopidae y Philodromidae se asocian a pisos de menor altitud (Cc-s, YT, ChS). Los ambientes SP y YT contienen la mayor riqueza específica y diversidad, mientras que SM y BM presentaron la mayor similitud. En Cc-s y ChS se observaron las mayores diferencias con los demás ambientes, excepto SP. La complementariedad y coeficientes e índices de similitud revelaron alta diversidad β en la región. En consecuencia, se sugiere que además de reforzar la protección en los pisos transicionales de yungas (hábitats más deteriorados y diversos para las arañas), la gestión de conservación debería estar orientada en toda el área a promover la heterogeneidad espacial natural de las Yungas, haciendo especial hincapié en el mosaico de hábitats que constituyen cada estrato diferente.
Dos nuevas especies de truchas atlánticas (Actinopterygii, Salmonidae) de Marruecos
Authors: Doadrio Ignacio , Perea Silvia , Yahyaoui Ahmed
Published: August 2015

Cuatro especies del género Salmo Linnaeus, 1758 se han reconocido tradicionalmente en Marruecos: S. macrostigma Duméril, 1858; S. pallaryi Pellegrin, 1924; S. pellegrini Werner, 1931 y S. akairos Delling y Doadrio, 2005. Dos de estas especies se distribuyen por las cuencas mediterráneas (S. macrostigma) y atlánticas (S. pellegrini), mientras que las otras dos están restringidas a lagos aislados en las montañas del Atlas, una de ellas al Lago Ifni (S. akairos) y la otra, probablemente extinta, al Lago de Sidi Alí (S. pallaryi). Estudios filogenéticos preliminares y estudios regionales basados en alozimas, microsatélites y marcadores mitocondriales hallaron una alta estructuración de las poblaciones de este género en Marruecos, con diferencias genéticas significativas en las poblaciones del lago de Isli (Montañas del Atlas) y de la cuenca del Draa en el sur de Marruecos. En el presente trabajo nosotros proveemos evidencia morfológica y genética para distinguir estas poblaciones del lago de Isli y de la cuenca del Draa como dos especies diferentes.
Low Levels of IgM Antibodies against an Advanced Glycation Endproduct–Modified Apolipoprotein B100 Peptide Predict Cardiovascular Events in Nondiabetic Subjects
Authors: Engelbertsen Daniel , Vallejo Jenifer , Quách Tâm Dan , Fredrikson Gunilla Nordin , Alm Ragnar , Hedblad Bo , Björkbacka Harry , Rothstein Thomas L. , Nilsson Jan , Bengtsson Eva
Published: August 2015

Increased glucose levels are associated with the generation of advanced glycation endproduct (AGE) modifications. Interaction between AGE-modified plaque components and immune cells is believed to have an important role in the development of vascular complications in diabetes. Methylglyoxal (MGO) is one type of reactive aldehyde that gives rise to AGE modification. The present study analyzed whether autoantibodies against MGO-modified epitopes of the low-density lipoprotein apolipoprotein B (apoB) 100 predict cardiovascular events. A library consisting of 302 peptides comprising the complete apoB100 molecule was screened to identify peptides targeted by MGO-specific autoantibodies. Peptide (p) 220 (apoB amino acids 3286-3305) was identified as a major target. Baseline IgM and IgG against MGO–peptide 220 (p220) were measured in 700 individuals from the Malmö Diet and Cancer Cohort. A total of 139 cardiovascular events were registered during the 15-y follow-up period. Controlling for major cardiovascular risk factors demonstrated that subjects in the lowest tertile of MGO-p220 IgM had an increased risk for cardiovascular events (hazard ratio [95% confidence interval]: 2.07 [1.22–3.50]; ptrend = 0.004). Interestingly, the association between MGO-p220 IgM and cardiovascular events remained and even tended to become stronger when subjects with prevalent diabetes were excluded from the analysis (2.51 [1.37-4.61]; ptrend = 0.002). MGO-p220 IgM was inversely associated with blood glucose, but not with oxidized low-density lipoprotein. Finally, we demonstrate that anti-MGO-p220 IgM is produced by B1 cells. These data show that subjects with low levels of IgM recognizing MGO-modified p220 in apoB have an increased risk to develop cardiovascular events and that this association is present in nondiabetic subjects.
Soluble Collectin-12 (CL-12) Is a Pattern Recognition Molecule Initiating Complement Activation via the Alternative Pathway
Authors: Ma Ying Jie , Hein Estrid , Munthe-Fog Lea , Skjoedt Mikkel-Ole , Bayarri-Olmos Rafael , Romani Luigina , Garred Peter
Published: August 2015

Soluble defense collagens including the collectins play important roles in innate immunity. Recently, a new member of the collectin family named collectin-12 (CL-12 or CL-P1) has been identified. CL-12 is highly expressed in umbilical cord vascular endothelial cells as a transmembrane receptor and may recognize certain bacteria and fungi, leading to opsonophagocytosis. However, based on its structural and functional similarities with soluble collectins, we hypothesized the existence of a fluid-phase analog of CL-12 released from cells, which may function as a soluble pattern-recognition molecule. Using recombinant CL-12 full length or CL-12 extracellular domain, we determined the occurrence of soluble CL-12 shed from in vitro cultured cells. Western blot showed that soluble recombinant CL-12 migrated with a band corresponding to ∼120 kDa under reducing conditions, whereas under nonreducing conditions it presented multimeric assembly forms. Immunoprecipitation and Western blot analysis of human umbilical cord plasma enabled identification of a natural soluble form of CL-12 having an electrophoretic mobility pattern close to that of shed soluble recombinant CL-12. Soluble CL-12 could recognize Aspergillus fumigatus partially through the carbohydrate-recognition domain in a Ca2+-independent manner. This led to activation of the alternative pathway of complement exclusively via association with properdin on A. fumigatus as validated by detection of C3b deposition and formation of the terminal complement complex. These results demonstrate the existence of CL-12 in a soluble form and indicate a novel mechanism by which the alternative pathway of complement may be triggered directly by a soluble pattern-recognition molecule.
Age and history of the uranium mineralization of the Beaverlodge area, Saskatchewan
Authors: Koeppel V
Published: August 2015

Uranium-lead ages were determined for samples of pitchblende, uraninite etc. Based on these ages and on the lead isotope ratios of galena and clausthalite, it is shown that the formation and evolution of the mineral deposits took place during six discrete periods
covering a time span of more than 2, 200 million years. Analytical procedures are discussed and the valid.ity of the results using various techniques is examined. New upper and lower age limits are suggested for the Martin Formation and for the diabase dykes of the area. It is concluded that
isotopic data from pitchblende samples can be used to determine the age and evolution of the ore deposits.
Mississippian subsurface geology, Rocky Mountain House area, Alberta
Authors: Martin H L
Published: August 2015

This report is part of a study of the subsurface Mississippian strata in west-central Alberta. Oil and gas are obtained from several fields in the area associated with the erosion edges of the Mississippian formations, hydrocarbon entrapment is also controlled by
the distribution of the carbonate lithofacies; in order to illustrate these relationships, structure contour, isopachous, and lithofacies maps have been prepared.
Cambrian to Upper Silurian stratigraphy, Somerset Island and northeastern Boothia Peninsula, District of Franklin, Northwest Territories
Authors: Kerr J W , Miall A D
Published: August 2015

The geology of the report area is dominated by Boothia Uplift, which is cored by Aphebian metamorphic and igneous rocks and by younger Proterozoic sediments, and which extends northward from the Canadian Shield approximately 650 km to near the northern edge of
the Arctic Platform. The uplift is flanked and partly overlain by a sequence of Cambrian to Devonian sediments approximately 2000 m thick. The Upper Cambrian to Upper Silurian rocks described in this report outcrop within Cornwallis Fold Belt, which is a region of deformed strata that makes up the
flanks and upper structural levels of Boothia Uplift. The oldest units are two formations which were first described on Baffin Island: Turner Cliffs Formation (Upper Cambrian to Lower Ordovician, 307-360 m), a variegated succession of dolostone and sandstone; and the Ship Point Formation (Lower to
Middle Ordovician, 64-250 m), which consists of similar rock types to the Turner Cliffs Formation, but in which dolostone predominates. The Turner Cliffs Formation contains a prominent cherty dolostone unit which is correlated with the cherty member of the Franklin Mountain Formation in the northern
Interior Plains. The contact between the Turner Cliffs and Ship Point Formations is probably conformable. Conformably overlying the Ship Point Formation is the Cornwallis Group, comprising three formations, all of which were first described in the Franklinian Miogeocline and which have not
previously been recognized south of Barrow Strait: the Bay Fiord Formation (Middle Ordovician, 6-196 m), consisting mainly of recessive, dark coloured, fissile dolostone; the Thumb Mountain Formation (Middle to Upper Ordovician, 25-115 m), consisting of resistant fossiliferous limestone and
dolostone; and the Irene Bay Formation (Upper Ordovocian, 8-43 m), consisting mainly of recessive limestone and dolostone. There is a post-Bay Fiord disconformity, which may extend throughout the Arctic Platform, and possibly a post-Ire ne Bay disconformity, which may be of more local extent. The
Allen Bay Formation (Upper Ordovician to Middle Silurian, 550-l 050 m), which overlies the Cornwallis Group, consists mainly of resistant dolostone. All these units are present in the subsurface in Prince Regent Basin, east of Boothia Uplift, as shown by the stratigraphic section in the Garnier 0-21
well in northeast Somerset Island. Most units thicken into the basin, but th ere are no ma jor facies changes, except that the upper part of the Allen Bay Formation passes laterally into the Cape Crauford Formation (Lower to Upper Silurian, 580 m), which consists of dolostone with abundant
evaporite.
Age Determinations and Geological Studies K-ar Isotopic Ages, Report 10
Authors: Wanless R K , Stevens R D , Lachance G R , Delabio R N
Published: August 2015

One hundred and fifty-six new potassium-argon age determinations carried out on Canadian rocks and minerals are reported. In most instances the age determination is accompanied by a description of the rock and mineral concentrate used; brief interpretive comments
regarding the geological significance of each age is also provided. The experimental procedures employed are described in brief outline and the constants used in the calculation of ages and isotopic abundances are listed. Two geological time scales are reproduced in tabular form for ready
reference.
Petrographic and chemical properties of a lignite from Estevan, Saskatchewan
Authors: Cameron A R , Birmingham T F
Published: August 2015

A column sample of a 98- inch- thick lignite seam from a strip mine near Estevan, Saskatchewan was analyzed petrographically and chemically. The maceral terminology applied was esse ntially that of bituminous coals except that three varieties of vitrinite were
identified, namely, structured, structureless and groundmass. On the basis of petrographic characteristics, the seam was divided into ten intervals. Maceral variations among intervals showed a fairly high concentration of inertinite, especially fusinite and semifusinite, in the lower part of the
seam. Chemical data showed sulphur contents to be well below 1 per cent in all intervals while ash contents varied from 6. 8 to 8. 6 per cent {dry basis) for the lower 88 inches of the seam. Volatile matter contents increased with an increase in the proportions of groundmass vitrinite, resinite and
exinite. The petrographic data suggest a forest - moor origin for the seam with reed-moor and open-water influences gradually becoming stronger as seam accumulation progressed. Determinations of uranium, vanadium and molybdenum by intervals showed low concentrations. The highest uranium value was
just under 3 ppm (total coal basis) obtained on the lowest interval of the seam. The best vanadium value was about 10 ppm (total coal basis) obtained on a high ash interval near the top of the seam. Molybdenum concentrations were all below 100 ppm on the ashed coal basis.
Geological map and notes on the Ordovician and Silurian Lith- and Biostratigraphy, Anticosti Island, Quebec
Authors: Bolton T E
Published: August 2015

The six formations detailed on the preliminary geological map of Anticosti Island, Quebec, represent an uninterrupted sequence of nearly flatlying rocks of Upper Ordovician to Middle Silurian ages. The Upper Ordovician strata, divisible into two formations,
Vaureal and Ellis Bay, are persistent, alternating calcareous and argillaceous units, each bearing distinct marine faunal assemblages. These rocks occupy the northwestern one-third of the island. The succeeding Lower and Middle Silurian strata of the Becscie, Gun River and Jupiter Formations are
more variable lithological units, the upperrnost Chicotte Formation, occurring only along the southern coast of the island, being everywhere a massive, crinoidal limestone. These Silurian formations, of Llandoverian and early Wenlockian ages (Alexandrian and early Niagaran), are highly fossiliferous
and divisible into several tentative faunal units. Characteristic fossils from each of the six formations are illustrated in a preliminary fashion and grouped by formation.
Classification, distribution and grade-tonnage summaries of Canadian lead-zinc deposits
Authors: Sangster D F
Published: August 2015

A summary overview of certain quantifiable characteristics of Canadian lead-zinc deposits and occurrences is presented by means of maps, graphs and explanatory text. A total of 378 lead-zinc deposits, defined as mineral concentrations for which grade and tonnage
data are available for these elements, have been assigned to one of six deposit-type categories: (i) sandstone-lead; (ii) contact metasomatic; (iii) Mississippi Valley; (iv) sediment-hosted exhalative; (v) volcanic-associated exhalative; and (vi) vein/replacement. Deposits are plotted on a 1:5
million scale geological map with symbols depicting deposit-type, total (Pb+Zn) content, and Zn/(Zn+Pb) ratio. Crowded areas of deposit-clusters are shown on a series of more detailed geological maps. The 4900 lead-zinc occurrences (no grade-tonnage data available) recorded in CAN MIN DEX, the GSC
computer-based mineral deposits file, were simply contoured by a moving average technique and are displayed as a density contour map. The study showed that:
1. A majority of all deposits are decidedly copper-poor relative to lead-zinc;
2. Volcanic-associated deposits, as a group, are largely bimetallic Cu-Zn whereas all other deposit-types are bimetallic Pb-Zn;
3. Volcanic-associated exhalative and vein/replacement deposits are the two most abundant deposit-types, constituting 47% and 37%, respectively, of the total deposit population;
4. Vein/replacement deposits account for the majority of size less than 100 OOO tonnes ore; deposits larger than this are mainly of the exhalative type; 5. The median size of all Canadian lead-zinc deposits is 0.
5 million tonnes ore;
6. A majority of deposits grade less than 18% (Pb+Zn);
7. The average (Pb+Zn) grade of sediment-hosted exhalative deposits (10.07%) is more than double that of volcanic-associated exhalative deposits (4.94%); vein/replacement deposits not subjected to hand-picking of ore material average 8.58%.
8. Contour plots of 4912 lead-zinc occurrences show that most coincide with deposit-clusters.
The report includes three appendices which: (i) list deposits by type with cross-referencing by name and deposit-number including latitude, longitude and National Topographic System (NTS) location data for each deposit; (ii) list deposits !Jlphabetically by deposit-type; and (iii) record selected
bibliographic references for each deposit for a total of 748 citations.
Reconnaissance geology of the Precambrian Shield of Ellesmere, Devon and Coburg islands, Canadian Arctic Archipelago
Authors: Frisch T
Published: August 2015

The extensively ice- and snow-covered highland areas of southeastern Ellesmere Island, eastern Devon Island and Coburg Island are underlain by highly deformed granulite facies rocks of the northernmost Canadian Shield. The bulk of the terrane comprises a late
Archean or early Proterozaic continental margin sequence now made up of garnet-sillimanite-cordierite gneiss, marble, quartzite, quartzafeldspathic gneiss of calc-alkaline composition, and metabasalt chemically of oceanic affinity, in interleaved belts trending northerly on Ellesmere and Coburg
islands, easterly on Devon Island.
These rocks were intruded by a granitoid suite under granulite facies conditions between I.9 and 2. 0 Ga. Orthopyroxene-bearing tonalitic to granitic rocks, retrograded to varying degree, form especially extensive terranes in the southern and northern parts of the shield on Ellesmere Island.
Xenolithrich peraluminous granite with garnet, cordierite and/or sillimanite is abundant on Ellesmere Island. Most, if not all, of the intrusions are thought to have originated by crustal anatexis related to the granulite facies metamorphism and are moderately to strongly deformed.
Pressures and temperatures of metamorphism range from 7 to 3 x I 05 kPa and about 750 to 500°C, largely reflecting decompression and cooling during uplift. Pressures recorded in Devon Island rocks are generally higher than elsewhere in the map area.
The interleaving of belts of diverse lithologies, the high metamorphic grade, and significant partial melting are probably due to crustal thickening by thrust stacking, possibly resulting from continental collision.
The crystalline rocks are overlain on the east coast of Ellesmere Island by unmetamorphosed sediments and basalts of the Neohelikian Thule Group and are bordered on the west and north by lower Paleozaic strata of the Arctic Platform.
Developing evaluation standards and assessing evaluation quality
Authors: Leslie Mike , Moodley Nishendra , Goldman Ian , Jacob Christel , Podems Donna , Everett Mark , Beney Terence
Published: August 2015

The article explains the rationale for the development of standards for evaluation practice, the process followed in developing those standards, and how those standards inform the quality assessment of evaluations. Quality assessment of evaluations are conducted as a routine activity of the South African National Evaluation System (NES). The importance of quality assessment for improving the state of evaluation practice in South Africa is illustrated by presenting results from the quality assessments undertaken to date. The paper concludes by discussing the progress on the development of a public Evaluations Repository to manage and provide access to completed evaluations and their quality assessment results, and offering some concluding analytical remarks.
Cognitive rehabilitation groups: A thematic analysis of feasibility and perceived benefits for clients with moderate to severe traumatic brain injury living in the Western Cape
Authors: Wilson Abigail , Wills Peta , Pretorius Chrisma , Swartz Leslie
Published: August 2015

Background: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) has a significant impact on the burden of care within the South African setting, impacting on the individual, the family, and the community as a whole. Often the consequences of TBI are permanent, resulting in numerous financial and emotional stressors. Objective: This research focusses on the experience of outpatient cognitive rehabilitation groups for individuals who have suffered moderate to severe brain injuries within the South African setting. Method: Participants with moderate to severe brain injury were required to attend five cognitive rehabilitation groups and engage in a semistructured interview. Qualitative data were examined via thematic analysis, to determine participants’ subjective experiences of group participation.Results: There is a need within the South African setting for cognitive rehabilitation and support groups for individuals who have experienced a TBI. The benefits were notable for both the individuals attending and their support systems. In spite of the benefits there were notable limitations to attendance, including financial restrictions and transport limitations. Conclusion: According to participants and their families, there is a scarcity of resources within the Western Cape for clients who have sustained a TBI. Despite limitations in capacity to attend there appears to be a need for structured outpatient cognitive rehabilitation programmes integrating the complex cognitive and emotional challenges faced by individuals with TBI and their families.
'Walking the talk’: Paul’s authority in motion in 2 Corinthians 10–13
Authors: Joubert Stephan J.
Published: August 2015

One’s gait or incessus served as a prominent visual indicator of moral character and status in ancient Graeco-Roman societies. Nobles, aristocrats and slaves walked differently. Linking on to this ‘common-sense knowledge’, Paul’s opponents in 2 Corinthians 10–13 shamed him publicly due to his inability to do the ‘leadership walk’ amongst the Corinthians. Whilst rhetorically engaging with these stereotypes, the apostle simultaneously deconstructs them with regard to the deep structure of the text. A new form of spiritual authority, which is also embodied in the weakness of Christ on the cross, surfaces in Paul’s own bodily humiliations and apparent powerlessness.’Om jou praat te loop’: Paulus se outoriteit aan die beweeg in 2 Korintiërs 10–13. Individue se liggaamstaal of incessus was ‘n prominente visuele aanduiding van morele karakter en status binne antieke Grieks-Romeinse gemeenskappe. Adelikes, aristokrate en slawe het almal op verskillende maniere geloop. In die lig van hierdie algemene kennis het Paulus se opponente in 2 Korintiërs 10–13 hom in die publiek verneder vanweë sy onvermoë om die ‘leierskaploop’ te doen tussen die Korintiërs. Terwyl Paulus enersyds in gesprek tree met hierdie stereotipe idees, dekonstrueer hy dit in dieselfde asem ten opsigte van die dieptestruktuur van die teks. ‘n Nuwe vorm van geestelike outoriteit, wat ook in die swakheid van Christus aan die kruis geleë is, kom na vore in Paulus se eie liggaamlike vernederings en oënskynlike kragteloosheid.
Designing of High-Volume PET/CT Facility with Optimal Reduction of Radiation Exposure to the Staff: Implementation and Optimization in a Tertiary Health Care Facility in India
Authors: Jha Ashish , Singh Abhijith , Mithun Sneha , Shah Sneha , Agrawal Archi , Purandare Nilendu , Shetye Bhakti , Rangarajan Venkatesh
Published: August 2015

Positron emission tomography (PET) has been in use for a few decades but with its fusion with computed tomography (CT) in 2001, the new PET/CT integrated system has become very popular and is now a key influential modality for patient management in oncology. However, along with its growing popularity, a growing concern of radiation safety among the radiation professionals has become evident. We have judiciously developed a PET/CT facility with optimal shielding, along with an efficient workflow to perform high volume procedures and minimize the radiation exposure to the staff and the general public by reducing unnecessary patient proximity to the staff and general public.
Atmospheric new particle formation as a source of CCN in the eastern Mediterranean marine boundary layer
Authors: Kalivitis N. , Kerminen V.-M. , Kouvarakis G. , Stavroulas I. , Bougiatioti A. , Nenes A. , Manninen H. E. , Petäjä T. , Kulmala M. , Mihalopoulos N.
Published: August 2015

Abstract. While cloud condensation nuclei (CCN) production associated with atmospheric new particle formation (NPF) is thought to be frequent throughout the continental boundary layers, few studies on this phenomenon in marine air exist. Here, based on simultaneous measurement of particle number size distributions, CCN properties and aerosol chemical composition, we present the first direct evidence on CCN production resulting from NPF in the eastern Mediterranean atmosphere. We show that condensation of both gaseous sulfuric acid and organic compounds from multiple sources leads to the rapid growth of nucleated particles to CCN sizes in this environment during the summertime. Sub-100 nm particles were found to be substantially less hygroscopic than larger particles during the period with active NPF and growth (the value of κ was lower by 0.2–0.4 for 60 nm particles compared with 120 nm particles), probably due to enrichment of organic material in the sub-100 nm size range. The aerosol hygroscopicity tended to be at minimum just before the noon and at maximum in the afternoon, which was very likely due to the higher sulfate-to-organic ratios and higher degree of oxidation of the organic material during the afternoon. Simultaneous with the formation of new particles during daytime, particles formed during the previous day or even earlier were growing into the size range relevant to cloud droplet activation, and the particles formed in the atmosphere were possibly mixed with long-range-transported particles.
A comparison of measured HONO uptake and release with calculated source strengths in a heterogeneous forest environment
Authors: Sörgel M. , Trebs I. , Wu D. , Held A.
Published: August 2015

Abstract. Vertical mixing ratio profiles of nitrous acid (HONO) were measured in a clearing and on the forest floor in a rural forest environment. For the forest floor, HONO was found to predominantly deposit, whereas for the clearing, net deposition dominated only during nighttime and net emissions were observed during daytime. For selected days, net fluxes of HONO were calculated from the measured profiles using the aerodynamic gradient method. The emission fluxes were in the range of 0.02 to 0.07 nmol m−2 s−1 and thus were in the lower range of previous observations. These fluxes were compared to the strengths of postulated HONO sources. Laboratory measurements of different soil samples from both sites revealed an upper limit for soil biogenic HONO emission fluxes of 0.025 nmol m−2 s−1. HONO formation by light-induced NO2 conversion was calculated to be below 0.03 nmol m−2 s−1 for the investigated days, which is comparable to the potential soil fluxes. Due to light saturation at low irradiance, this reaction pathway was largely found to be independent of light intensity, i.e. it was only dependent on ambient NO2. We used three different approaches based on measured leaf nitrate loadings for calculating HONO formation from HNO3 photolysis. While the first two approaches based on empirical HONO formation rates yielded values in the same order of magnitude as the estimated fluxes, the third approach based on available kinetic data of the postulated pathway failed to produce noticeable amounts of HONO. Estimates based on reported cross sections of adsorbed HNO3 indicate that the lifetime of adsorbed HNO3 was only about 15 min, which would imply a substantial renoxification. Although the photolysis of HNO3 was significantly enhanced at the surface, the subsequent light-induced conversion of the photolysis product NO2 did not produce considerable amounts of HONO. Consequently, this reaction might occur via an alternative mechanism. By explicitly calculating HONO formation based on available kinetic data and simple parameterizations, we showed that (a) for low NOx the light-induced conversion of NO2 on humic acids is already light saturated by the early morning, (b) HONO formation from photolysis of adsorbed HNO3 appears to proceed via an alternative mechanism and (c) estimates of HONO emissions from soil are very sensitive to mass transfer and acidic soils do not necessarily favour HONO emissions.