bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Blunt trauma of bone structures of the chest: Computed tomography vs multidetector computed tomography
Authors: Petrovic Kosta , Turkalj Ivan , Stojanovic Sanja , Vucaj-Cirilovic Viktorija , Nikolic Olivera , Stojiljkovic Dragana
Published: August 2013

Background/Aim. Computerized tomography (CT), especially multidetector CT
(MDCT), has had a revolutionary impact in diagnostic in traumatized
patients. The aim of the study was to identify and compare the frequency of
injuries to bone structures of the thorax displayed with 5-mm-thick axial CT
slices and thin-slice (MDCT) examination with the use of 3D reconstructions,
primarily multiplanar reformations (MPR). Methods. This prospective study
included 61 patients with blunt trauma submitted to CT scan of the thorax as
initial assessment. The two experienced radiologists independently and
separately described the findings for 5-mmthick axial CT slices (5 mm CT) as
in monoslice CT examination; MPR and other 3D reconstructions along with
thin-slice axial sections which were available in modern MDCT technologies.
After describing thin-slice examination in case of disagreement in the
findings, the examiners redescribed thinslice examination together which was
ultimately considered as a real, true finding. Results. No statistically
significant difference in interobserver evaluation of 5 mm CT examination
was recorded (p > 0.05). Evaluation of fractures of sternum with 5 mm CT and
MDCT showed a statistically significant difference (p < 0.05) in favor of
better display of injury by MDCT examination. Conclusion. MDCT is a powerful
diagnostic tool that can describe higher number of bone fractures of the
chest in traumatized patients compared to 5 mm CT, especially in the region
of sternum for which a statistical significance was obtained using MPR.
Moreover, the importance of MDCT is also set by easier and more accurate
determination of the level of bone injury.
Treatment options for childhood medulloblastoma
Authors: Nikitovic Marina , Golubicic Ivana
Published: August 2013

nema
Early reconstruction of bone defect created after initial surgery of a large keratocystic odontogenic tumor: A case report
Authors: Matijevic Stevo , Damjanovic Zoran , Cerovic Snezana
Published: August 2013

Introduction. Keratocystic odontogenic tumor (KCOT) is defined as a benign
cystic neoplasm of the jaws of odontogenic origin with a high rate of
recurrence. The most lesions occur in the posterior part of the mandible.
Treatment of KCOT remains controversial, but the goals of treatment should
involve eliminating the potential for recurrence while minimizing surgical
morbidity. However, another significant therapeutic problem related to the
management of KCOT is an adequate and early reconstruction of the existing
jaw defect, as well as appropriate aesthetic and functional rehabilitation of
a patient, especially in cases of a very large destruction of the jaws bone.
Case report. We presented a 65-year-old female patient with very large KCOT
of the mandible. Orthopantomographic radiography showed a very large
elliptical multilocular radiolucency, located on the right side of the
mandible body and the ascending ramus of the mandible, with radiographic
evidence of cortical perforation at the anterior border of the mandibular
ramus and the superior border of the alveolar part of the mandible. The
surgical treatment included two phases. In the first phase, the tumor was
removed by enucleation and additional use of Carnoy solution, performing
peripheral ostectomy and excision of the affected overlying mucosa, while in
the second phase, restorative surgery of the existing mandibular defect was
performed 6 months later. Postoperatively, we did not register any of
postoperative complications, nor recurrence within 2 years of the follow-up.
Conclusion. Adequate and early reconstruction of the existing jaw defect and
appropriate aesthetic and functional rehabilitation of the patient should be
the primary goal in the treatment of KCOT, having in mind the need for a
long-term post-surgical follow-up.
Kistik fibrozisli çocukta düzelmeyen öksürük nedeni olarak Pseudomonas aeruginosa pnömonisi: Olgu sunumu
Authors: Kutlu Ruhuşen , Pekcan Sevgi , Özberk Derya Işıklar
Published: August 2013

Kistik fibrozis (KF), transmembran ileti regulator genindeki mutasyon sonucu oluşan ve otozomal resesif kalıtım gösteren bir hastalıktır. Kistik fibrozis transmembran regulator protein (KFTR) ter, sindirim sıvıları ve mukus bileşenlerinin düzenlenmesinde gereklidir. Hastalığın sıklığı beyaz ırkta 1/2500-1/3500 civarındadır. Kistik fibrozisin ülkemizdeki sıklığı ise bilinmemektedir. Kistik fibrozis çocukluk yaşlarında ortaya çıkan ve tüm ekzokrin bezlerin fonksiyon bozukluğu ile seyreden kalıtsal bir hastalıktır. Temel bozukluk ter, tükrük, solunum sistemi, kalın barsak, ürogenital sistem ve pankreas ekzokrin bezlerinden anormal sekresyonların oluşumudur. Önde gelen klinik belirtiler, kronik obstrüktif akciğer hastalığı ve pankreas yetersizliğine ait bulgulardır. Pseudomonas aeruginosa KF hastalarında kolonizasyona, kronik ve tekrarlayan enfeksiyonlara neden olan bir bakteridir. Bu yazıda kalıcı öksürüğünün sebebi olarak, Pseudomonas aeruginosa kolonizasyonuna bağlı kronik akciğer enfeksiyonunun akut alevlenmesi tespit edilen kistik fibrozis tanısı almış 10 yaşında bir kız çocuğu sunulmuştur.
Almost Condensed Domains
Authors: Khalid Waseem , Ur Rehman Shafiq
Published: August 2013

As an extension of the class of half condensed domains introduced by D.D. Anderson and Dumitrescu, we introduce and study the class of almost condensed domains. An integral domain D is almost condensed if whenever 0≠ z ∈ IJ with I; J ideals of D, there exist I′ ; J′ ideals of D such that I′ ⊆ Iw, J′ ⊆ Jw and zD = (I′ J′ )w.
Generalized Broughton polynomials and characteristic varieties
Authors: Thang Nguyen Tat
Published: August 2013

We introduce a family of generalized Broughton polynomials and compute the characteristic varieties of complement of curve arrange- ments defined by fibers of those generalized Broughton polynomials.
A comprehensive comparison of atmospheric mapping functions for GPS measurements in Egypt
Authors: Younes S. A. , Elmezayen A. G.
Published: August 2013

The principal limiting error source in the Global Positioning System (GPS) is the mismodeling of the delay experienced by radio waves in propagating through the atmosphere. The atmosphere causing the delay in GPS signals consists of two main layers: the ionosphere and the troposphere. The ionospheric delay can be mitigated using dual frequency receivers, but the tropospheric delay is often corrected using a standard tropospheric model. The tropospheric delay can be described as a product of the delay at the zenith and a mapping function, which models the elevation dependence of the propagation delay. A large number of mapping functions have been developed for use in the analysis of space geodetic data. An assessment of most of these mapping functions including those developed by Niell (NMF), Herring (MTT), Davis (CfA-2.2), Ifadis, Chao, Black & Eisner (B & E), Yang & Ping, Moffett, Vienna (VMF), and Isobaric (IMF) have been performed. The behavior of these mapping functions was assessed by comparing their results with highly accurate Numerical Integration based Models (NIM) for three different stations in Egypt (Aswan, Helwan, and Mersa Matrouh) at different times throughout the year. The meteorological data used in this study was taken from the Egyptian Meteorological Authority (EMA) as average values between 1990 and 2005. It can be concluded that the Black & Eisner mapping function is recommended for dry tropospheric delay prediction for low zenith angles, whereas VMF will be the choice for elevation angles up to 10°.
A conventional approach for comparing vertical reference frames
Authors: Kotsakis C.
Published: August 2013

A conventional transformation model between different realizations of a vertical reference system is an important tool for geodetic studies related to precise vertical positioning and physical height determination. Its fundamental role is the evaluation of the consistency for colocated vertical reference frames that are obtained from different observation techniques, data sources or optimal estimation strategies in terms of an appropriate set of “vertical datum perturbation” parameters. Our scope herein is to discuss a number of key issues related to the formulation of such a transformation model and to present some simple examples from its practical implementation in the comparison of existing vertical frames over Europe.
Approximations of the GOCE error variance-covariance matrix for least-squares estimation of height datum offsets
Authors: Gerlach Ch. , Fecher Th.
Published: August 2013

One main geodetic objective of the European Space Agency’s satellite mission GOCE (gravity field and steady-state ocean circulation explorer) is the contribution to global height system unification. This can be achieved by applying the Geodetic Boundary Value Problem (GBVP) approach. Thereby one estimates the unknown datum offsets between different height networks (datum zones) by comparing the physical (e.g. orthometric) height values H of benchmarks in different datum zones to the corresponding values derived from the difference between ellipsoidal heights h (e.g. determined by means of global navigation satellite systems) and geoid heights N. In the ideal case, i.e. neglecting data errors, the misfit between H and (h − N) is constant inside one datum zone and represents the datum offset. In practise, the accuracy of the offset estimation depends on the accuracy of the three quantitiesH, h andN, where the latter can be computed from the combination of a GOCE-derived Global Potential Model (GPM) for the long to medium wavelength and terrestrial data for the short wavelength content. Providing an optimum estimation of the datum offsets along with realistic error estimates, theoretically, requires propagation of the full error variance and covariance information of the GOCE spherical harmonic coefficients to geoid heights, respectively geoid height differences. From a numerical point of view, this is a very demanding task which cannot simply be run on a single PC. Therefore it is worthwhile to investigate on different levels of approximation of the full variance-covariance matrix (VCM) with the aim of minimizing the numerical effort. In this paper, we compare the estimation error based on three levels of approximation, namely (1) using the full VCM, (2) using only elements of the dominant m-block structure of the VCM and (3) using only the main diagonal of the VCM, i.e. neglecting all error covariances between the spherical harmonic coefficients. We show that the m-block approximation gives almost the same result as provided by the full VCM. The diagonal approximation however over- or underestimates the geoid height error, depending on the geographic location and therefore is not regarded to be a suitable approximation.
Towards worldwide height system unification using ocean information
Authors: Woodworth P.L. , Hughes C.W. , Bingham R.J. , Gruber T.
Published: August 2013

We describe the application of ocean levelling to worldwide height system unification. The study involves a comparison of ‘geodetic’ and ‘ocean’ approaches to determination of the mean dynamic topography (MDT) at the coast, from which confidence in the accuracy of stateof- the-art ocean and geoid models can be obtained. We conclude that models are consistent at the sub-decimetre level for the regions that we have studied (North Atlantic coastlines and islands, North American Pacific coast and Mediterranean). That level of consistency provides an estimate of the accuracy of using the ocean models to provide an MDT correction to the national datums of countries with coastlines, and thereby of achieving unification. It also provides a validation of geoid model accuracy for application to height system unification in general. We show how our methods can be applied worldwide, as long as the necessary data sets are available, and explain why such an extension of the present study is necessary if worldwide height system unification is to be realised.
Estimating Canadian vertical datum offsets using GNSS/levelling benchmark information and GOCE global geopotential models
Authors: Hayden T. , Amjadiparvar B. , Rangelova E. , Sideris M.G.
Published: August 2013

The performance of GOCE-based geopotential models is assessed for the estimation of offsets for three regional vertical datums in Canada with respect to a global equipotential surface using the GNSS benchmarks from the first-order vertical control network. Factors that affect the computed value of the local vertical datum offset include the GOCE commission and omission errors, measurement errors, the configuration of the network of GNSS/levelling benchmarks, and systematic levelling errors and distortions propagated through the vertical control network. Among these various factors, the effect of the GOCE omission error on the datum offsets is investigated by extending the models with the high resolution gravity field model EGM2008 and by means of Canada’s official high resolution geoid model CGG2010. The effect of the GOCE commission error in combination with errors from the GNSS/levelling data is also examined, in addition to the effect of systematic levelling errors. In Canada, the effect of the GOCE omission error is at the dm-level when computing local vertical datum offsets. The effect of including accuracy information for the GNSS/levelling data and the GOCE geoid heights can be up to 4 cm over the Canadian mainland and at the dm-level for island regions. Lastly, the spatial tilts found in the levelling network can be modelled with a 2-parameter bias corrector model, which reduces the RMS of the adjusted geoid height differences by 4 cm when compared to the RMS of adjusted geoid height differences computed without the use of a bias corrector model. Thus, when computing local vertical datum offsets in Canada, it is imperative to account for GOCE commission and omission errors, ellipsoidal and levelling height errors, as well as the systematic levelling errors of the vertical control network.
Sleep Enhances Learning of a Functional Motor Task in Young Adults
Authors: Al-Sharman Alham , Siengsukon Catherine F.
Published: August 2013

Background

Sleep has been demonstrated to enhance simple motor skill learning “offline” in young adults. “Offline learning” refers to either the stabilization or the enhancement of a memory through the passage of time without additional practice. It remains unclear whether a functional motor task will benefit from sleep to produce offline motor skill enhancement. Physical therapists often teach clients functional motor skills; therefore, it is important to understand how sleep affects learning of these skills.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to determine whether sleep enhances the learning of a functional motor task.

Design

A prospective, cross-sectional, repeated-measures design was used.

Methods

Young participants who were healthy (N=24) were randomly assigned to either a sleep group or a no-sleep group. The sleep group practiced a novel walking task in the evening and underwent retention testing the following morning, and the no-sleep group practiced the task in the morning and underwent retention testing in the evening. Outcome measures included time around the walking path and spatiotemporal gait parameters.

Results

Only participants who slept after practicing the novel walking task demonstrated a significant offline improvement in performance. Compared with the no-sleep group, participants in the sleep group demonstrated a significant decrease in the time around the walking path, an increase in tandem velocity, an increase in tandem step length, and a decline in tandem step time.

Limitations

Time-of-day effect and inability to ensure a certain amount of sleep quantity and quality of participants were limitations of the study.

Conclusions

This study is the first to provide evidence that sleep facilitates learning clinically relevant functional motor tasks. Sleep is an important factor that physical therapists should consider when teaching clients motor skills.
Infusing Neuroscience Into Teacher Professional Development
Authors: Dubinsky Janet M. , Roehrig Gillian , Varma Sashank
Published: August 2013

Bruer advocated connecting neuroscience and education indirectly through the intermediate discipline of psychology. We argue for a parallel route: The neurobiology of learning, and in particular the core concept of plasticity, have the potential to directly transform teacher preparation and professional development, and ultimately to affect how students think about their own learning. We present a case study of how the core concepts of neuroscience can be brought to in-service teachers—the BrainU workshops. We then discuss how neuroscience can be meaningfully integrated into pre-service teacher preparation, focusing on institutional and cultural barriers.
Assessment of the difference in posterior circulation involvement between pediatric and adult patients with moyamoya disease
Authors: Hishikawa Tomohito , Tokunaga Koji , Sugiu Kenji , Date Isao
Published: August 2013

Object

There is no description of the change in the posterior cerebral artery (PCA) in the diagnostic criteria of moyamoya disease (MMD). However, PCAs are often involved in the clinical setting, and an understanding of the significance of PCA lesions is therefore of great importance when evaluating the disease progression and predicting prognosis. The aim of this study was to assess the difference in posterior circulation involvement in pediatric and adult patients with MMD.

Methods

The records of 120 consecutive patients with MMD were reviewed. The clinical manifestations at diagnosis were evaluated on the basis of symptoms and CT and MRI findings. The degree of steno-occlusive internal carotid artery (ICA) lesions and the existence of steno-occlusive PCA lesions were evaluated by observing a total of 240 ICAs and PCAs on angiography. Angiographic correlation between anterior and posterior circulation was assessed in pediatric and adult patients with MMD.

Results

Seventeen (26%) of 66 pediatric patients and 18 (33%) of 54 adult patients exhibited steno-occlusive PCA lesions. There was no significant difference in the prevalence of PCA lesions between pediatric and adult patients with MMD (p = 0.36). The prevalence of infarction in pediatric and adult patients with PCA involvement was significantly higher than that in pediatric and adult patients without PCA involvement (p = 0.0003 and p = 0.003, respectively). There was no significant difference in the distribution of infarction areas between pediatric and adult patients with PCA involvement (p = 0.62). On the basis of the staging system used, steno-occlusive lesions in ICAs ipsilateral to PCAs with lesions were in significantly advanced stages compared with lesions in ICAs ipsilateral to PCAs without lesions in both pediatric and adult cases (p < 0.0001 and p = 0.0008, respectively). Pediatric patients had less advanced steno-occlusive lesions in ICAs ipsilateral to PCAs with lesions compared with adults (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

The clinical significance of posterior circulation involvement in MMD was similar between pediatric and adult patients. The only significant difference was that less advanced ICA lesions could complicate posterior circulation involvement in pediatric patients.
Increased expression of glutamate transporter GLT-1 in peritumoral tissue associated with prolonged survival and decreases in tumor growth in a rat model of experimental malignant glioma
Authors: Sattler Rita , Tyler Betty , Hoover Benjamin , Coddington Luke T. , Recinos Violette , Hwang Lee , Brem Henry , Rothstein Jeffrey D.
Published: August 2013

Object

Gliomas are known to release excessive amounts of glutamate, inducing glutamate excitotoxic cell death in the peritumoral region and allowing the tumor to grow and to expand. Glutamate transporter upregulation has been shown to be neuroprotective by removing extracellular glutamate in a number of preclinical animal models of neurodegenerative diseases, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and Parkinson disease as well as psychiatric disorders such as depression. The authors therefore hypothesized that the protective mechanism of glutamate transporter upregulation would be useful for the treatment of gliomas as well.

Methods

In this study 9L gliosarcoma cells were treated with a glutamate transporter upregulating agent, thiamphenicol, an antibiotic approved in Europe, which has been shown previously to increase glutamate transporter expression and has recently been validated in a human Phase I biomarker trial for glutamate transporter upregulation. Cells were monitored in vitro for glutamate transporter levels and cell proliferation. In vivo, rats were injected intracranially with 9L cells and were treated with increasing doses of thiamphenicol. Animals were monitored for survival. In addition, postmortem brain tissue was analyzed for tumor size, glutamate transporter levels, and neuron count.

Results

Thiamphenicol showed little effects on proliferation of 9L gliosarcoma cells in vitro and did not change glutamate transporter levels in these cells. However, when delivered locally in an experimental glioma model in rats, thiamphenicol dose dependently (10–5000 μM) significantly increased survival up to 7 days and concomitantly decreased tumor size from 46.2 mm2 to 10.2 mm2 when compared with lesions in nontreated controls. Furthermore, immunohistochemical and biochemical analysis of peritumoral tissue confirmed an 84% increase in levels of glutamate transporter protein and a 72% increase in the number of neuronal cells in the tissue adjacent to the tumor.

Conclusions

These results show that increasing glutamate transporter expression in peritumoral tissue is neuroprotective. It suggests that glutamate transporter upregulation for the treatment of gliomas should be further investigated and potentially be part of a combination therapy with standard chemotherapeutic agents.
Naẓm, iʿjāz, Discontinuous Kerygma: Approaching Qur'anic Voice on the Other Side of the Poetic
Authors: El-Desouky Ayman A.
Published: August 2013

The present study offers tentative reflections toward approaching the questions of revelation, iʿjāz, naẓm and Qur'anic voice from within modern conceptual frames of the literary and the sacred which focus not so much on the poetic and the metaphorical as on the historical. What is meant by the historical here is the locus of human experience in its receptivity to the revealed word: the response to the very fact of revelation, which turns the experience of the sacred text and its rhetorics into an experience of sacred hermeneutics – whether on the level of the individual, from within the uniqueness of each individuality, or on the level of the community of faith and the call to live by the word of revelation. The possibility of a more uniquely Islamic hermeneutics of proclamation will be explored on the level of the ‘discontinuous verse’. By invoking Western traditions of interpretation and hermeneutics the present study also seeks to initiate a dialogue with Western Biblical and critical hermeneutics, with the aim of instituting a more sustained engagement with the peculiarities of Qur'anic voice that will also introduce a particular range of conceptual language not so steeped in the assumptions of Western metaphysics and speculative theologies.
Al-Ṭabarī and the Dynamics of tafsīr: Theological Dimensions of a Legacy
Authors: Shah Mustafa
Published: August 2013

The Jāmiʿ al-bayān ʿan taʾwīl āy al-Qurʾān is fittingly recognised as representing an important milestone in the history of the discipline of tafsīr: within the work, al-Ṭabarī accomplished a uniquely comprehensive exegetical synthesis of literary, grammatical, legal and theological elements, bringing a broader sense of definition and purpose to the discipline of tafsīr. Among the characteristic features of the scholarship of al-Ṭabarī are the objectivity and consistency he brought to his work and such qualities resonate in his gauging of theological issues and topics. While it has been customary to view al-Ṭabarī's theology as being strictly informed by a rigidly traditionalist methodology, a circumspect review of theological discussions in the tafsīr reveals not only the author's accomplished marshalling of the attendant arguments and theses, but also the spirit of autonomy and resourcefulness with which he assesses points of doctrine and dogma. In this article an attempt is made to analyse aspects of the intertwined theological discourses of the tafsīr and related treatises, bridging them with materials articulated in the biographical sources. The aim is to explore the relationship between his approach to scholarship along with the standpoints to which he adhered and their impact upon attitudes towards his remarkable work and legacy.
Traumatic Brain Injury, Boredom and Depression
Authors: Goldberg Yael , Danckert James
Published: August 2013

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) often presents with co-morbid depression and elevated levels of boredom. We explored the relationship between boredom and depression in a group of mild (n = 38), moderate-to-severe TBI patients (n = 14) and healthy controls (n = 88), who completed the Beck Depression Inventory and Boredom Proneness Scales as part of a larger study. Results showed that the relationship between boredom and depression was strongest in moderate-to-severe TBI patients. We explored two boredom proneness factors that index an individual’s need for external or internal stimulation. Results indicated that the need for external stimulation was the critical driver in the relation between boredom and depression. Once again, this relationship was strongest in the moderate-to-severe TBI group. These results suggest that one common factor underlying boredom and depression is the need for stimulation from the external environment and, presumably, a failure to satisfy that need—a disconnection felt most strongly in moderate-to-severe TBI.
Complete Toluene Oxidation on Pt/CeO2-ZrO2-ZnO Catalysts
Authors: Kim Min , Kamata Tomoya , Masui Toshiyuki , Imanaka Nobuhito
Published: August 2013

A 0.4 wt%Pt/Ce0.76Zr0.19Zn0.05O1.95 catalyst was prepared by the evaporative drying method. The catalytic toluene oxidation activity of the catalyst was investigated and the calcination temperature dependence on the toluene oxidation activity was characterized. It was confirmed that only CO2 and steam were produced by the complete oxidation of toluene, and no toluene-derived compounds were detected as by-products with a gas chromatography-mass spectrometer. Toluene was completely oxidized at 320 °C on the 0.4 wt%Pt/Ce0.76Zr0.19Zn0.05O1.95 catalyst calcined at 500 °C. The toluene oxidation activity slightly decreased with increasing the calcination temperature of the catalyst. However, significant deactivation was not recognized in the present 0.4 wt%Pt/Ce0.76Zr0.19Zn0.05O1.95 catalyst, and toluene was completely oxidized at 360 °C even after calcination at 1000 °C. From these results, it became obvious that the 0.4 wt%Pt/Ce0.76Zr0.19Zn0.05O1.95 catalyst has high thermal stability for toluene oxidation activity.
Culture-Independent Molecular Tools for Soil and Rhizosphere Microbiology
Authors: Rincon-Florez Vivian , Carvalhais Lilia , Schenk Peer
Published: August 2013

Soil microbial communities play an important role in plant health and soil quality. Researchers have developed a wide range of methods for studying the structure, diversity, and activity of microbes to better understand soil biology and plant-microbe interactions. Functional microbiological analyses of the rhizosphere have given new insights into the role of microbial communities in plant nutrition and plant protection against diseases. In this review, we present the most commonly used traditional as well as new culture-independent molecular methods to assess the diversity and function of soil microbial communities. Furthermore, we discuss advantages and disadvantages of these techniques and provide a perspective on emerging technologies for soil microbial community profiling.
Estimation Bias in Maximum Entropy Models
Authors: Macke Jakob , Murray Iain , Latham Peter
Published: August 2013

Maximum entropy models have become popular statistical models in neuroscience and other areas in biology and can be useful tools for obtaining estimates of mutual information in biological systems. However, maximum entropy models fit to small data sets can be subject to sampling bias; i.e., the true entropy of the data can be severely underestimated. Here, we study the sampling properties of estimates of the entropy obtained from maximum entropy models. We focus on pairwise binary models, which are used extensively to model neural population activity. We show that if the data is well described by a pairwise model, the bias is equal to the number of parameters divided by twice the number of observations. If, however, the higher order correlations in the data deviate from those predicted by the model, the bias can be larger. Using a phenomenological model of neural population recordings, we find that this additional bias is highest for small firing probabilities, strong correlations and large population sizes—for the parameters we tested, a factor of about four higher. We derive guidelines for how long a neurophysiological experiment needs to be in order to ensure that the bias is less than a specified criterion. Finally, we show how a modified plug-in estimate of the entropy can be used for bias correction.
Use of LCA as a Tool for Building Ecodesign. A Case Study of a Low Energy Building in Spain
Authors: Zabalza Ignacio , Scarpellini Sabina , Aranda Alfonso , Llera Eva , Jáñez Alberto
Published: August 2013

This paper demonstrates how to achieve energy savings in the construction and operation of buildings by promoting the use of life cycle assessment techniques in the design for new buildings and for refurbishment. The paper aims to draw on the application of a specific methodology for low energy consumption, integrated planning, environmental performance evaluation of buildings, and design for sustainability and LCA techniques applied to buildings. The ENergy Saving through promotion of LIfe Cycle assessment in buildings (ENSLIC) methodology based on LCA for use in an integral planning process has been promoted to stakeholders who require a means to optimize the environmental performance of buildings. Feedback from the stakeholders has facilitated the creation of simplified LCA guidelines, a systematic approach guiding the user through the alternative options regarding software choices, their strengths and weaknesses, the databases available, the usefulness of different indicators, aggregation, definition of limits and options for simplifying the process. As a result, this paper presents the applied results of a case study where this methodology is implemented serving as an energy savings evaluation tool for decision makers, end-users, professionals involved in the different stages of construction, etc. Finally, it is demonstrated how LCA can facilitate comparisons between different buildings, showing the influence of all variables on a building’s life cycle environmental impact and showing the potential for energy savings. Removing market barriers to sustainable construction is actually stricter and this is good news for promoting higher energy efficiency in buildings.
Comparison of Growth Kinetics of Various Pathogenic E. coli on Fresh Perilla Leaf
Authors: Kim Juhui , Ro Eunyoung , Yoon Kisun
Published: August 2013

Growth kinetics for Escherichia coli O157:H7 in perilla leaves were compared to those of pathogenic E. coli strains, including enteropathogenic (EPEC), enterotoxigenic (ETEC), enteroinvasive (EIEC) and other enterohemorrhagic (EHEC) at 13, 17, 24, 30 and 36 °C. Models for lag time (LT), specific growth rate (SGR) and maximum population density (MPD) as a function of temperature were developed. The performance of the models was quantified using the ratio method and an acceptable prediction zone method. Significant differences in SGR and LT among the strains were observed at all temperatures. Overall, the shortest LT was observed with E. coli O157:H7, followed by EPEC, other EHEC, EIEC and ETEC, while the fastest growth rates were noted in EPEC, followed by E. coli O157:H7, ETEC, other EHEC and EIEC. The models for E. coli O157:H7 in perilla leaves was suitable for use in making predictions for EPEC and other EHEC strains.
Richard Rorty in Context
Authors: Lloyd Brian
Published: August 2013

Richard Rorty was a strong contextualist in his approach to philosophical and political ideas, yet his own most characteristic arguments are typically evaluated without much reference to the historical circumstances that provoked them. A key participant in the post-1980 revival of pragmatism within North American and European intellectual circles, Rorty reaffirmed the strong connections between American pragmatism and German idealism. This move placed him at odds with scholars who forged the unity of pragmatism—united John Dewey and William James—under the banner of radical empiricism. Those engaged most enthusiastically in celebrating Rorty’s achievements, in short, defend a conception of pragmatism that Rorty sharply criticized and ideas about the history of philosophy that he did not share. His distinctive intellectual agenda is best appreciated after setting it in the context of the history of the American Left and, more specifically, the reckoning with the tumultuous 1960s that animates so many ongoing debates—inside and outside the academy—about cultural and political affairs.
Hypothyroxinemia Induced by Mild Iodine Deficiency Deregulats Thyroid Proteins during Gestation and Lactation in Dams
Authors: Wei Wei , Wang Yi , Dong Jing , Wang Yuan , Min Hui , Song Binbin , Shan Zhongyan , Teng Weiping , Xi Qi , Chen Jie
Published: August 2013

The main object of the present study was to explore the effect on thyroidal proteins following mild iodine deficiency (ID)-induced maternal hypothyroxinemia during pregnancy and lactation. In the present study, we established a maternal hypothyroxinemia model in female Wistar rats by using a mild ID diet. Maternal thyroid iodine content and thyroid weight were measured. Expressions of thyroid-associated proteins were analyzed. The results showed that the mild ID diet increased thyroid weight, decreased thyroid iodine content and increased expressions of thyroid transcription factor 1, paired box gene 8 and Na+/I− symporter on gestational day (GD) 19 and postpartum days (PN) 21 in the maternal thyroid. Moreover, the up-regulated expressions of type 1 iodothyronine deiodinase (DIO1) and type 2 iodothyronine deiodinase (DIO2) were detected in the mild ID group on GD19 and PN21. Taken together, our data indicates that during pregnancy and lactation, a maternal mild ID could induce hypothyroxinemia and increase the thyroidal DIO1 and DIO2 levels.
A Seamless Ubiquitous Telehealthcare Tunnel
Authors: Cheng Po-Hsun , Lin Bor-Shing , Yu Chu , Hu Shun-Hsiang , Chen Sao-Jie
Published: August 2013

Mobile handheld devices are rapidly using to implement healthcare services around the World. Fundamentally, these services utilize telemedicine technologies. A disconnection of a mobile telemedicine system usually results in an interruption, which is embarrassing, and reconnection is necessary during the communication session. In this study, the Stream Control Transmission Protocol (SCTP) is adopted to build a stable session tunnel to guarantee seamless switching among heterogeneous wireless communication standards, such as Wi-Fi and 3G. This arrangement means that the telemedicine devices will not be limited by a fixed wireless connection and can switch to a better wireless channel if necessary. The tunnel can transmit plain text, binary data, and video streams. According to the evaluation of the proposed software-based SCTP-Tunnel middleware shown, the performance is lower than anticipated and is slightly slower than a fixed connection. However, the transmission throughput is still acceptable for healthcare professionals in a healthcare enterprise or home care site. It is necessary to build more heterogeneous wireless protocols into the proposed tunnel-switching scheme to support all possible communication protocols. In addition, SCTP is another good choice for promoting communication in telemedicine and healthcare fields.
An Assessment of Food Safety Needs of Restaurants in Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria
Authors: Onyeneho Sylvester , Hedberg Craig
Published: August 2013

One hundred and forty five head chefs and catering managers of restaurants in Owerri, Nigeria were surveyed to establish their knowledge of food safety hazards and control measures. Face-to-face interviews were conducted and data collected on their knowledge of risk perception, food handling practices, temperature control, foodborne pathogens, and personal hygiene. Ninety-two percent reported that they cleaned and sanitized food equipment and contact surfaces while 37% engaged in cross-contamination practices. Forty-nine percent reported that they would allow a sick person to handle food. Only 70% reported that they always washed their hands while 6% said that they continued cooking after cracking raw eggs. All respondents said that they washed their hands after handling raw meat, chicken or fish. About 35% lacked knowledge of ideal refrigeration temperature while 6% could not adjust refrigerator temperature. Only 40%, 28%, and 21% had knowledge of Salmonella, E. coli, and Hepatitis A, respectively while 8% and 3% had knowledge of Listeria and Vibrio respectively, as pathogens. Open markets and private bore holes supplied most of their foods and water, respectively. Pearson’s Correlation Coefficient analysis revealed almost perfect linear relationship between education and knowledge of pathogens (r = 0.999), cooking school attendance and food safety knowledge (r = 0.992), and class of restaurant and food safety knowledge (r = 0.878). The lack of current knowledge of food safety among restaurant staff highlights increased risk associated with fast foods and restaurants in Owerri.
Occurrence and Prevalence of Insect Pathogens in Populations of the Codling Moth, Cydia pomonella L.: A Long-Term Diagnostic Survey
Authors: Zimmermann Gisbert , Huger Alois , Kleespies Regina
Published: August 2013

About 20,550 larvae, pupae and adults of the codling moth, Cydia pomonella L., were diagnosed for pathogens during long-term investigations (1955–2012) at the Institute for Biological Control in Darmstadt, Germany. The prevailing entomopathogens diagnosed in these studies were insect pathogenic fungi, especially Beauveria bassiana and Isaria farinosa, the microsporidium, Nosema carpocapsae, the Cydia pomonella granulovirus (CpGV), as well as mostly undetermined bacteria. While the CpGV was observed exclusively in larvae and pupae from laboratory colonies or from field experiments with this virus, entomopathogenic fungi were most frequently diagnosed in last instars in autumn and in diapausing larvae and pupae in spring. B. bassiana was identified as the major fungal pathogen, causing larval prevalences of 0.9% to 100% (mean, about 32%). During prognostic long-term studies in larvae and adults of C. pomonella, N. carpocapsae was diagnosed in codling moth populations from various locations in Germany. The mean prevalence generally ranged between 20% and 50%. Experiments revealed that the fecundity and fertility of microsporidia-infected female adults were significantly reduced compared to healthy ones. The results underpin the importance of naturally occurring microbial antagonists and represent a base for further ecological studies on developing new or additional biological and integrated control strategies.
Model of Biological Quantum Logic in DNA
Authors: Mihelic F.
Published: August 2013

The DNA molecule has properties that allow it to act as a quantum logic processor. It has been demonstrated that there is coherent conduction of electrons longitudinally along the DNA molecule through pi stacking interactions of the aromatic nucleotide bases, and it has also been demonstrated that electrons moving longitudinally along the DNA molecule are subject to a very efficient electron spin filtering effect as the helicity of the DNA molecule interacts with the spin of the electron. This means that, in DNA, electrons are coherently conducted along a very efficient spin filter. Coherent electron spin is held in a logically and thermodynamically reversible chiral symmetry between the C2-endo and C3-endo enantiomers of the deoxyribose moiety in each nucleotide, which enables each nucleotide to function as a quantum gate. The symmetry break that provides for quantum decision in the system is determined by the spin direction of an electron that has an orbital angular momentum that is sufficient to overcome the energy barrier of the double well potential separating the C2-endo and C3-endo enantiomers, and that enantiomeric energy barrier is appropriate to the Landauer limit of the energy necessary to randomize one bit of information.
Diversity and Biosynthetic Potential of Culturable Microbes Associated with Toxic Marine Animals
Authors: Chau Rocky , Kalaitzis John , Wood Susanna , Neilan Brett
Published: August 2013

Tetrodotoxin (TTX) is a neurotoxin that has been reported from taxonomically diverse organisms across 14 different phyla. The biogenic origin of tetrodotoxin is still disputed, however, TTX biosynthesis by host-associated bacteria has been reported. An investigation into the culturable microbial populations from the TTX-associated blue-ringed octopus Hapalochlaena sp. and sea slug Pleurobranchaea maculata revealed a surprisingly high microbial diversity. Although TTX was not detected among the cultured isolates, PCR screening identifiedsome natural product biosynthesis genes putatively involved in its assembly. This study is the first to report on the microbial diversity of culturable communities from H. maculosa and P. maculata and common natural product biosynthesis genes from their microbiota. We also reassess the production of TTX reported from three bacterial strains isolated from the TTX-containing gastropod Nassarius semiplicatus.
Two Novel Tyrosinase Inhibitory Sesquiterpenes Induced by CuCl2 from a Marine-Derived Fungus Pestalotiopsis sp. Z233
Authors: Wu Bin , Wu Xiaodan , Sun Min , Li Minhui
Published: August 2013

Two new sesquiterpenes, 1β,5α,6α,14-tetraacetoxy-9α-benzoyloxy-7β H-eudesman-2β,11-diol (1) and 4α,5α-diacetoxy-9α-benzoyloxy-7βH-eudesman-1β,2β,11, 14-tetraol (2), were produced as stress metabolites in the cultured mycelia of Pestalotiopsis sp. Z233 isolated from the algae Sargassum horneri in response to abiotic stress elicitation by CuCl2. Their structures were established by spectroscopic means. New compounds 1 and 2 showed tyrosinase inhibitory activities with IC50 value of 14.8 µM and 22.3 µM.
Evaluation of Anti-Nociceptive and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of a Heterofucan from Dictyota menstrualis
Authors: Albuquerque Ivan , Cordeiro Sara , Gomes Dayanne , Dreyfuss Juliana , Filgueira Luciana , Leite Edda , Nader Helena , Rocha Hugo
Published: August 2013

Fucan is a term that defines a family of homo- and hetero-polysaccharides containing sulfated l-fucose in its structure. In this work, a heterofucan (F2.0v) from the seaweed, Dictyota menstrualis, was evaluated as an antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory agent. F2.0v (20.0 mg/kg) inhibits 100% of leukocyte migration into the peritoneal cavity after chemical stimulation. However, F2.0v does not alter the expression of interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) and interleukin-6 (IL-6), as well as tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α). F2.0v (20.0 mg/kg) has peripheral antinociceptive activity with potency similar to dipyrone. On the other hand, it had no effect on pain response on the hot plate test. Confocal microscopy analysis and flow cytometry showed that F2.0v binds to the surface of leucocytes, which leads us to suggest that the mechanism of action of anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive F2.0v is related to its ability to inhibit the migration of leukocytes to the site of tissue injury. In summary, the data show that F2.0v compound has great potential as an antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory, and future studies will be performed to further characterize the mechanism of action of F2.0v.
Acylcarnitine Profiles in Acetaminophen Toxicity in the Mouse: Comparison to Toxicity, Metabolism and Hepatocyte Regeneration
Authors: Bhattacharyya Sudeepa , Pence Lisa , Beger Richard , Chaudhuri Shubhra , McCullough Sandra , Yan Ke , Simpson Pippa , Hennings Leah , Hinson Jack , James Laura
Published: August 2013

High doses of acetaminophen (APAP) result in hepatotoxicity that involves metabolic activation of the parent compound, covalent binding of the reactive intermediate N-acetyl-p-benzoquinone imine (NAPQI) to liver proteins, and depletion of hepatic glutathione. Impaired fatty acid β-oxidation has been implicated in previous studies of APAP-induced hepatotoxicity. To better understand relationships between toxicity and fatty acid β-oxidation in the liver in APAP toxicity, metabolomic assays for long chain acylcarnitines were examined in relationship to established markers of liver toxicity, oxidative metabolism, and liver regeneration in a time course study in mice. Male B6C3F1 mice were treated with APAP (200 mg/kg IP) or saline and sacrificed at 1, 2, 4, 8, 24 or 48 h after APAP. At 1 h, hepatic glutathione was depleted and APAP protein adducts were markedly increased. Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels were elevated at 4 and 8 h, while proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) expression, indicative of hepatocyte regeneration, was apparent at 24 h and 48 h. Elevations of palmitoyl, oleoyl and myristoyl carnitine were apparent by 2–4 h, concurrent with the onset of Oil Red O staining in liver sections. By 8 h, acylcarnitine levels were below baseline levels and remained low at 24 and 48 h. A partial least squares (PLS) model suggested a direct association of acylcarnitine accumulation in serum to APAP protein adduct and hepatic glutathione levels in mice. Overall, the kinetics of serum acylcarnitines in APAP toxicity in mice followed a biphasic pattern involving early elevation after the metabolism phases of toxicity and later depletion of acylcarnitines.
Amazonian Plant Natural Products: Perspectives for Discovery of New Antimalarial Drug Leads
Authors: Pohlit Adrian , Lima Renata , Frausin Gina , Silva Luiz , Lopes Stefanie , Moraes Carolina , Cravo Pedro , Lacerda Marcus , Siqueira André , Freitas-Junior Lucio , Costa Fabio
Published: August 2013

Plasmodium falciparum and P. vivax malaria parasites are now resistant, or showing signs of resistance, to most drugs used in therapy. Novel chemical entities that exhibit new mechanisms of antiplasmodial action are needed. New antimalarials that block transmission of Plasmodium spp. from humans to Anopheles mosquito vectors are key to malaria eradication efforts. Although P. vivax causes a considerable number of malaria cases, its importance has for long been neglected. Vivax malaria can cause severe manifestations and death; hence there is a need for P. vivax-directed research. Plants used in traditional medicine, namely Artemisia annua and Cinchona spp. are the sources of the antimalarial natural products artemisinin and quinine, respectively. Based on these compounds, semi-synthetic artemisinin-derivatives and synthetic quinoline antimalarials have been developed and are the most important drugs in the current therapeutic arsenal for combating malaria. In the Amazon region, where P. vivax predominates, there is a local tradition of using plant-derived preparations to treat malaria. Here, we review the current P. falciparum and P. vivax drug-sensitivity assays, focusing on challenges and perspectives of drug discovery for P. vivax, including tests against hypnozoites. We also present the latest findings of our group and others on the antiplasmodial and antimalarial chemical components from Amazonian plants that may be potential drug leads against malaria.