bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nitrification Kinetics and Nitrous Oxide Emissions when Nitrapyrin is Coapplied with Urea–Ammonium Nitrate
Authors: Omonode Rex A. , Vyn Tony J.
Published: August 2013

Simultaneous application of nitrification inhibitors and fertilizer N has the potential to delay nitrification processes and reduce atmospheric N loss through N2O emissions. A 2‐yr study was conducted to assess the effects of newly available water‐soluble nitrapyrin (Instinct) [2‐chloro‐6‐(trichloromethyl)pyridine] on the nitrification kinetics and N2O emissions from urea–NH4NO3 (UAN) band applied to somewhat poorly drained and moderately well‐drained silt loam soils in Indiana. The UAN fertilizer, with or without nitrapyrin, was injected post‐emergence between corn (Zea mays L.) rows that were 76 cm apart. Soil samples were taken at various increments from the band centers at 1‐ to 2‐wk intervals for up to 14 wk and analyzed for NH4– and NO3–N concentrations. Nitrification rates were determined using appropriate kinetic models. Greenhouse gas samples were collected weekly for 7 to 10 wk and biweekly thereafter for an additional 2 to 4 wk. Our results showed that UAN nitrification followed first‐order kinetics, with significantly greater nitrification rate constants without nitrapyrin. On average, UAN half‐life was about 15 d without nitrapyrin and 25 d when coapplied with nitrapyrin. Nitrapyrin reduced N2O emissions by up to 44% from sidedress‐applied UAN, even though emission quantities varied by location and year due to differences in soil moisture, temperature, and precipitation. These latter variables plus soil NH4–N concentrations, in various combinations, accounted for 40 to 50% of the total variability associated with N2O emissions. These results can help inform UAN management decisions with regard to use of N stabilizers with UAN in the midwestern United States.
Spatiotemporal Patterns of Water Stable Isotope Compositions at the Shale Hills Critical Zone Observatory: Linkages to Subsurface Hydrologic Processes
Authors: Thomas Evan M. , Lin Henry , Duffy Christopher J. , Sullivan Pamela L. , Holmes George H. , Brantley Susan L. , Jin Lixin
Published: August 2013

To better understand flow pathways and patterns in the subsurface, a stable isotope monitoring network was established at the Susquehanna‐Shale Hills Critical Zone Observatory (SSHCZO). Soil water samples were collected approximately biweekly using suction‐cup lysimeters installed at multiple depths along four different transects in the catchment. Groundwater and stream water were collected daily in the valley using automatic samplers, while precipitation samples were collected automatically on an event basis. The 3+ years (2008–2012) of monitoring data showed strong seasonal precipitation isotope compositions, which were imprinted in seasonal patterns of soil water at different spatial locations and depths. The groundwater isotope composition remained relatively constant throughout the year and closely matched the yearly amount‐weighted precipitation average, suggesting groundwater received recharge water in each season, although recharge mechanisms differed between growing and nongrowing seasons. Soil water samples showed clear attenuation with depth, with the largest variability in the shallow soil water (≤30 cm) mirroring precipitation inputs, moderate variability in the intermediate depths (40–100 cm), and the least variability in the deep soil water (≥120 cm) where the average remained near the groundwater average. Soil water isotope composition profiles also provided clear evidence for preferential flow occurring both laterally and vertically in different seasons and at various soil depths in the catchment. Putting all together, the extensive dataset of soil water isotopic compositions obtained in this study have provided a number of insights into complex subsurface hydrologic processes that are transferable to other similar landscapes.
Simulation of Fumigant Transport and Volatilization from Tarped Broadcast Applications
Authors: Spurlock Frank , Johnson Bruce , Tuli Atac , Gao Suduan , Tao Jing , Sartori Fabio , Qin Ruijun , Sullivan David , Stanghellini Mike , Ajwa Husein
Published: August 2013

We evaluated the ability of the HYDRUS 2D/3D model to simulate chloropicrin (CP) and 1,3‐dichloropropene (13D) fate, transport, and volatilization. Three fields with similar soil conditions were broadcast fumigated under a totally impermeable film (TIF). One field was used to calibrate HYDRUS by adjusting fumigant degradation rates, soil sorption coefficients, and TIF tarp resistance factors. In comparisons of simulated and measured soil gas concentrations, soil temperature, soil water contents, and inverse‐modeled estimates of fumigant volatilization flux, the model accurately simulated the basic individual processes of fumigant partitioning and degradation, heat transport, and soil water dynamics in the calibration field. Subsequent flux simulations of the remaining two fields were performed using only measured, independently estimated or calibrated inputs with no further adjustments. The magnitudes of simulated cumulative fluxes and both pre‐ and post‐tarpcut discrete flux densities were within the estimated range of uncertainty (factor of ∼2) of conventional inverse‐modeled field‐based flux estimates. However, the timing of maximum discrete flux densities was delayed by 1 to 2 d relative to inverse‐modeled estimates. While HYDRUS provided reasonably accurate flux estimates, it was also evident that parameterization, particularly for TIF tarp permeability properties, generally requires field‐based calibration because of a lack of representative field effective permeability data.
T-Cell Signaling in HIV-1 Infection
Authors: Abbas Wasim , Herbein Georges
Published: August 2013

HIV exploits the T-cell signaling network to gain access to downstream cellular components, which serves as effective tools to break the cellular barriers. Multiple host factors and their interaction with viral proteins contribute to the complexity of HIV-1 pathogenesis and disease progression. HIV-1 proteins gp120, Nef, Tat and Vpr alter the T-cell signaling pathways by activating multiple transcription factors including NF-ĸB, Sp1 and AP-1. HIV-1 evades the immune system by developing a multi-pronged strategy. Additionally, HIV-1 encoded proteins influence the apoptosis in the host cell favoring or blocking T-cell apoptosis. Thus, T-cell signaling hijacked by viral proteins accounts for both viral persistence and immune suppression during HIV-1 infection. Here, we summarize past and present studies on HIV-1 T-cell signaling with special focus on the possible role of T cells in facilitating viral infection and pathogenesis
The Teacher as Re-Designer of Technology Integrated Activities for an Early Literacy Curriculum
Authors: Cviko Amina , McKenney Susan , Voogt Joke
Published: August 2013

Though popular among children outside of school, Dutch teachers often struggle to offer technology integrated activities in the kindergarten classroom. Because involving teachers in development of technology integrated activities can support their implementation, this study examines teachers in the role of re-designing such activities. Two case studies (Year 1 and Year 2) were undertaken in 2 consecutive years involving six teachers in re-design. Interviews were held to examine teacher team perceptions about their role as re-designers. Implementation of the re-designed activities was observed in five classes. A non-equivalent control quasi experimental design was used to investigate pupil learning outcomes (Year 1: N = 102; Year 2: N = 119). Pupils in experimental groups outperformed pupils in control groups on early literacy. While the extent of integration increased as implementation continued, this could not explain the differences found in learning gains.
Synthetic Triterpenoids Can Protect against Toxicity without Reducing the Efficacy of Treatment with Carboplatin and Paclitaxel in Experimental Lung Cancer
Authors: Liby Karen T.
Published: August 2013

Synthetic oleanane triterpenoids are multifunctional drugs being developed for the prevention and treatment of a variety of chronic diseases driven by inflammation and oxidative stress. Low nanomolar concentrations of triterpenoids inhibit the induction of inflammatory cytokines, and these drugs are potent activators of the Nrf2 cytoprotective pathway. In contrast, low micromolar concentrations of triterpenoids increased the production of ROS and induced apoptosis in a dose-dependent manner in malignant MCF10 CA1a breast cancer cells. Because cancer cells respond differently to ROS than normal cells, it should be possible to exploit these differences therapeutically. In an experimental model of lung cancer, the triterpenoids activated the Nrf2 pathway, as seen by induction of the cytoprotective enzyme NQO1, and reduced the toxicity of carboplatin and paclitaxel. The induction of the Nrf2 pathway in the lung did not suppress the efficacy of treatment with carboplatin and paclitaxel, as the average tumor burden in the group treated with the combination of CDDO-Me and carboplatin/paclitaxel decreased by 90% (P < 0.05 vs. the controls and both single treatment groups). Understanding the dose response of triterpenoids and related drugs will help provide the proper context for optimizing their potential clinical utility.
Victims of peer violence
Authors: Mrsevic Zorica
Published: August 2013

This paper presents facts on peer violence victims, committed by minor
perpetrators against other minors. The author analyses four main
characteristics of peer violence: imbalance of power between perpetrators and
victims, identified intention to cause injuries, permanent treats of repeated
violence and afraidness of the victims. Otherness and weakness (physical and
social) of the victims are identified as the main motives of the perpetrators
who decide to attack, and these characteristics form the basis of the victim
typology. Due to the fact that the research is phenomenologically based
mostly on media report on peer violence cases in the period between September
2011 and the end of 2012, the author illustrates all main statements with the
real cases which took place in the focused period. Measures to combat peer
violence are presented, like the already established such as the school
without violence program, and those recently proposed, such as the so called
Aleksa?s class.
Suppression of discrimination against people with disabilities in the field of labor and employment: Situation and prospects
Authors: Tanjevic Natasa , Miric Filip
Published: August 2013

Discrimination based on disability is a complex phenomenon that is present in
all spheres of social life, especially in the world of work. The reasons that
led to this are numerous: living conditions, social and economic policies of
different times, but also many social factors such as ignorance,
carelessness, neglect, fear and prejudice. Therefore, various documents on
the international and national levels are adopted which contain provisions
prohibiting discrimination against persons with disabilities and that provide
a legal framework for their employment. Accordingly, the Serbian national
legislation is now significantly closer to the standards of the international
community and the European Union in this field, which opened the way for more
effective protection of persons with disabilities. However, one of the main
problems is the application of the law in practice. The authors tried to,
through the presentation of relevant documents of international and domestic
law, point out their individual shortcomings while proposing certain
amendments to the existing legal solutions for the purpose of finding
effective ways to combat discrimination against persons with disabilities in
the labor and employment area, which is the main aim of this paper.
Morphology, gradation and frequency of mastocytoma in dogs
Authors: Stevanovic Oliver , Damjan Radoja , Vucicevic Ivana , Marinkovic Darko , Aleksic-Kovacevic Sanja
Published: August 2013

Mastocytoma is a kind of cutaneous tumour consisting of a great number of
variously differentiated mastocytes. In dogs, they make 15-20% out of all
cutaneous tumours, and are also considered to be potentially malignant skin
tumours. They appear mosly in the region of abdomen (50-60%), less frequenly
at limbs (25-40%) and very rarely at head and neck skin (10%). This work is a
retrospective analysis of all diagnosed mastocytoma during the period from
2004. to 2012. at the Department of Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine
in Belgrade. Biopsy material was exposed to histopathological examination.
Tissue cuttings of 3-5 ?m thick were dyed by HE method and TB method.
Questionnaire on the frequency of mastocytoma was carried out in 40
veterinary policlinics in Belgrade. During the specified period, 65 cases of
mastocytoma were diagnosed. They participated in 9.46% of all skin tumours.
They were located at head skin, abdomen skin and limbs skin as well, and
found in various dogs breeds. Mastocytomas were diagnosed in 25 policlinics
in Belgrade. They were of nodose, irregular, verrucose and polypose shapes
with numerous secondary alterations. Mastocytoma represented most frequent
hematopoietic and ?round cell? diagnosed tumours. Most frequently they were
located at limbs. Predisposed breeds are Golden Retriever and half-breed.
Nodose form with expansive growth and secondary alterations such as
inflammations was prevailing.
Environmental lead pollution and its possible influence on tooth loss and hard dental tissue lesions
Authors: Cenic-Milosevic Desanka , Mileusnic Ivan , Kolak Veljko , Pejanovic Djordje , Ristic Tamara , Jakovljevic Ankica , Popovic Milica , Pesic Dragana , Melih Irena
Published: August 2013

Bacground/Aim. Environmental lead (Pb) pollution is a global problem. Hard
dental tissue is capable of accumulating lead and other hard metals from the
environment. The aim of this study was to investigate any correlation between
the concentration of lead in teeth extracted from inhabitants of Pancevo and
Belgrade, Serbia, belonging to different age groups and occurrence of tooth
loss, caries and non-carious lesions. Methods. A total of 160 volunteers were
chosen consecutively from Pancevo (the experimental group) and Belgrade (the
control group) and divided into 5 age subgroups of 32 subjects each. Clinical
examination consisted of caries and hard dental tissue diagnostics. The
Decayed Missing Filled Teeth (DMFT) Index and Significant Caries Index were
calculated. Extracted teeth were freed of any organic residue by UV digestion
and subjected to voltammetric analysis for the content of lead. Results. The
average DMFT scores in Pancevo (20.41) were higher than in Belgrade (16.52);
in the patients aged 31-40 and 41-50 years the difference was significant (p
< 0.05) and highly significant in the patients aged 51-60 (23.69 vs 18.5, p <
0.01). Non-carious lesions were diagnosed in 71 (44%) patients from Pancevo
and 39 (24%) patients from Belgrade. The concentrations of Pb in extracted
teeth in all the groups from Pancevo were statistically significantly (p <
0.05) higher than in all the groups from Belgrade. In the patients from
Pancevo correlations between Pb concentration in extracted teeth and the
number of extracted teeth, the number of carious lesions and the number of
non-carious lesions showed a statistical significance (p < 0.001, p < 0.01
and p < 0.001, respectively). Conclusion. According to correlations between
lead concentration and the number of extracted teeth, number of carious
lesions and non-carious lesions found in the patients living in Pancevo, one
possible cause of tooth loss and hard dental tissue damage could be a
long-term environmental exposure to lead.
Primary nasal tuberculosis: A case report
Authors: Stojanovic Jasmina , Belic Branislav , Mitrovic Slobodanka , Stankovic Predrag , Stojanovic Stevan , Erdevicki Ljiljana , Zivic Ljubica , Arsenijevic Snezana
Published: August 2013

Introduction. During the past two decades, tuberculosis (TBC) both pulmonary
and extrapulmonary, has emerged to be a major health problem. Nasal
tuberculosis is a specific inflammatory process which is, in most cases,
joined by the inflammation of neck lymph nodes. Case report. Thirty-yearold
man presented with shortness of breath through the nose and periodical
headaches. Clinical examination showed signs of chronic rhinitis, with slight
granular changes of nasal septal mucosa. Laboratory analyses were within the
reference ranges. Nasal and throat swabs for bacteria and fungi were normal.
Skin allergy testing to standard inhalatory allergens was positive. Computer
rhinomanometry showed increased nasal resistance at medium difficulty level,
on the right. Radiography of paranasal sinuses indicated chronic
polysinusitis on the right. Anti-allergy therapy was prescribed. The patient
came for checkup after a month with subjective deterioration and a neck
tumefact on the right. Nasal endoscopy revealed the presence of dark red
infiltrates with the 3 mm diameter on nasal septal mucosa, dominantly on the
right, with small greyish nodules. This findings indicated a potential
specific nasal inflammatory process. In the upper jugulodigastric area, on
the left, painless tumefact 3 x 5 cm in size was palpated, it was mobile
comparing to supra- and infrastructure, with unaltered skin above. The
definite diagnosis was established on the basis of the results of nasal
mucosa biopsy. After histopathological diagnosis was obtained, we started
with antituberculosis therapy at once. Conclusion. Due to actual trends of
TBC incidences, otolaryngologist should have in mind nasal TBC, when
granulomatose lesions are found in nose.
On the exposure limits for extended source multiple pulse laser exposures
Authors: Lund Brian J. , Schulmeister Karl
Published: August 2013

The proposed revisions to the ANSI Z136, ICNIRP, and IEC 60825-1 laser exposure limits for multiple pulse ocular exposure for wavelengths from 400 to 1400 nm are examined for pulse durations tp≥tmin (Ti). The three rules that are defined to be applied for multiple pulse exposures (or for classification for IEC 60825-1) are compared to identify criteria for which one of the rules is the critical one, i.e., the rule that limits the energy per pulse for a given exposure or product emission. Such a comparison can help to simplify a safety analysis, but also guide the design of systems for which the output is to be maximized yet still be classified as a Class 1 or Class 2 laser system.
Thermal stress distributions and microstructure in laser cutting of thin Al–Si alloy sheet
Authors: Sohail Akhtar Syed , Sami Yilbas Bekir , Bayraktar Emin
Published: August 2013

In the present study, laser cutting of thin aluminium–silicon alloy sheet is carried out and the temperature and stress fields are predicted using the finite element code. Surface temperature predictions are validated with the thermocouple data. The changes and geometric features of the cut sections are examined through scanning electron microscope, energy dispersive spectroscopy, and x-ray diffraction. It is found that the high conductivity of aluminum–silicon alloy increases the cooling rates and influences the thermal stress field in the cutting section. The striation patterns are formed at the kerf surface and some small dross attachments are observed at the cut edges.
Individual and Group Euthanasia in Farmed Mink / Indywidualne i grupowe uśmiercanie norek z chowu fermowego
Authors: Korhonen Hannu T. , Eskeli Pekka , Sepponen Juhani , Toikkanen Pekka
Published: August 2013

The study seeks to evaluate the effectiveness of euthanasia in mink (Neovison vison). The gases studied were filtered exhaust CO, and cylinder CO and CO2. The experimental setups were as follows: (1) individual killing of mink in a small killing box (35 × 30 × 60 cm; H × W × L); (2) individual killing of mink in a small killing box, kept inside a killer (12.5 × 12.5 × 55 cm; H × W × L); (3) group killing of mink in a large killing box (75 × 75 × 150 cm; H × W × L); and (4) group killing of mink in a large killing box (70 × 70 × 125 cm; H × W × L). The results showed that filtered exhaust CO concentrations of 1.2-3% were too low. Concentrations of 4-6% were effective. With cylinder CO of 4% the killing time was the same as that with engine CO at 4%. A cylinder CO2 concentration of ≥ 80% was effective. The shortest time interval after the end of all movements and respiration was with cylinder CO2. No difference was found between cylinder and filtered exhaust CO. The time the animals were alive did not significantly differ between the groups (P>0.05). The first animal collapsed soonest among those inhaling CO2 (CO2 vs cylinder CO; P=0.0045; and CO2 vs filtered exhaust CO; P=0.0009). No difference was found between cylinder CO and filtered exhaust CO (P=0.4654). There was also a significant difference in the time it took for the last animal to collapse. Here again the CO2 animals collapsed the soonest (CO2 vs cylinder CO, P=0.0062; CO2 vs exhaust CO, P=0.0012). No difference was found between cylinder and filtered exhaust CO (P=0.5660). It is concluded that concentrations of CO ≥4% and of CO2 ≥80% in the euthanasia box are sufficient to kill effectively.
The effect of nitrogen form and air temperature during foliar fertilization on gas exchange, the yield and nutritive value of spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.)
Authors: Borowski Edward , Michałek Sławomir
Published: August 2013

A pot experiment conducted in a growth chamber studied the effectiveness of foliar fertilization of spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.), with different forms of nitrogen applied with the air temperatures: 5°C, 15°C and 25°C. Nitrogen was supplied three times in the form of 1% water solutions of CO(NH2)2, NH4NO3, NH4HCO3 and Ca(NO3)2 × 4 H2O, with water as the control. The obtained results showed that nitrogen in the form of Ca(NO3)2 × 4 H2O - independent of the air temperature during solution application - is the least useful in foliar fertilization of spinach leaves, whereas the effectiveness of the other forms was similar, although the best effects were given by NH4NO3. Application of all forms of nitrogen at the air temperature of 25°C had the most positive effect on the course of gas exchange (stomatal conductivity, photosynthesis, transpiration). Despite that, the highest leaf yield with the highest content of nitrogen, total chlorophyll (a + b), carotenoids and vitamin C, and the lowest content of nitrates, was given by plants with foliar application of all nitrogen forms at the temperature of 15°C.
Influence of activated charcoal on seed germination and seedling development by the asymbiotic method in Zygostates grandiflora (Lindl.) Mansf. (Orchidaceae)
Authors: Pacek-Bieniek Agata , Dyduch-Siemińska Magdalena , Rudaś Michał
Published: August 2013

The aim of this study is to examine the influence of activated charcoal on the seed germinating ability and seedling development of Zygostates grandiflora (Lindl.) Mansf. in in vitro culture. The seeds were obtained from a sterilised orchid capsule. They were sown on a Murashige and Skoog medium + indoleacetic acid (1.5 mg dm-3) and benzylaminopurine (2.0 mg dm-3) without the addition of activated charcoal and on a medium that contained 1.0 and 3.0 g dm-3 activated charcoal, respectively, for 18 months. Initial differences in seed germination were observed after nine months since the beginning of the in vitro culture. The addition of activated charcoal had a positive influence on protocorm size and development. The results of this research were confirmed after 12 and 18 months of in vitro culture, where an intensive development of leaf and aerial roots occurred on a medium that contained the highest concentration of activated charcoal, i.e. 3.0 g dm-3 as a supplement. The statistical analysis showed that the asymbiotic method of orchid propagation in in vitro culture could be used for Z. grandiflora, and that the addition of activated charcoal into the medium improved this method.
Candidate plant gene homologues in grapevine involved in Agrobacterium transformation
Authors: Deák Tamás , Kupi Tünde , Oláh Róbert , Lakatos Lóránt , Kemény Lajos , Bisztray György , Szegedi Ernő
Published: August 2013

The grapevine (Vitis vinifera) genome was analyzed in silico for homologues of plant genes involved in Agrobacterium transformation in Arabidopsis thaliana and Nicotiana spp. Grapevine homologues of the glucomannan 4-betamannosyltransferase 9 gene CslA-09 involved in bacterial attachment to the cell wall, homologues of reticulon-like proteins BTI1, 2, 3 and RAB8 GTPases, both involved in T-DNA transfer to the host cell, homologues of VirE2 interacting protein VIP1 that contributes to the targeting of T-DNA into the nucleus and to its integration, and homologues of the histone protein H2A, which promotes the expression of T-DNA encoded genes, were selected. Sequences homologous to the arabinogalactan-protein AtAGP17 were not found in the grape genome. Seventeen selected candidates were tested by semiquantitative RT-PCR analysis for changes in their expression levels upon inoculation with Agrobacterium tumefaciens C58. Of the tested homologues, the expression of VvRab8a, VvVip1a and two histone genes (VvHta2 and VvHta10) increased significantly, therefore we hypothesize that these might be involved in Agrobacterium transformation of V. vinifera.
Histopathological indicators: a useful fish health monitoring tool in common carp (Cyprinus carpio Linnaeus, 1758) culture
Authors: Rašković Božidar , Jarić Ivan , Koko Vesna , Spasić Milan , Dulić Zorka , Marković Zoran , Poleksić Vesna
Published: August 2013

In order to evaluate the relationship between water quality in ponds and indices of histopathological changes occurring in the vital organs of the common carp (Cyprinus carpio L., 1758), two six-month field experiments were carried out using two different water supplies: from the nearby stream and a tube well. The fish were fed supplemental feed: raw cereals, pelleted and extruded compound feed. Histopathological analysis, alteration frequencies, and semi-quantitative scoring of the changes were used to assess the health status of the fish. Ponds supplied by stream water were characterized by higher water hardness, dissolved oxygen and pH values, while those supplied by the tube well had higher electroconductivity, total ammonium and orthophosphates content. Fish survival rate and habitat suitability index were lower in ponds supplied by stream water, while the weight gain did not differ between the two water supplies. The use of stream water resulted in a higher level of histopathological changes in gills and liver. Among the water quality parameters, pH level had the strongest influence on fish. Differences in water supply produced greater influence on the level of histopathological changes than the type of feed applied. Gills were the most sensitive organ, while the kidney was the least responsive.
Erratum to Central European Journal of Biology, Volume 8, Issue 9
Authors: Osyczka Piotr , Rola Kaja
Published: August 2013

Paper by Osyczka and Rola “Cladonia lichens as the most effective and essential pioneers in strongly contaminated slag dumps” in Volume 8, Issue 9, 876–887 / September 2013; DOI: 10.2478/s11535-013-0210-0 contains incorrect units in Table 2 and Table 3. The correct Tables 2 and 3, together with their captions are presented below.
Assessment of lipid-lowering treatment in Bulgaria — The CEPHEUS study
Authors: Gotcheva Nina , Raev Dimitar , Trendafilova Elina , Postadzhiyan Arman , Runev Nikolay , Vandenhoven Guy , Temmerman Anne-Marie , Staneva Marina
Published: August 2013

This is a multicenter cross-sectional survey of 2,500 Bulgarian adult patients taking lipid-lowering drugs (LLDs) for at least 3 months with no dose change for a minimum of 6 weeks. The primary objective was to establish the proportion of patients who are on LDL-C target, according to the Fourth Joint European Task Force (FJETF) guidelines. The secondary objectives were to define the proportion of patients at target: according to the 2001 National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel (NCEP ATP) III and the 2004 NCEP ATP III guidelines. The patients’ demographics, current LLD treatment, cardiovascular medical history were recorded. Next the lipid profile, glucose level and HbA1c were obtained from these patients. The investigators and patients completed questionnaires related to the LLD therapy. Gender, BMI, history of CHD, therapy compliance, risk category, lack of patient’s awareness of LDL-C targets were all studied as determinants of the undertreatment. Despite the satisfactory awareness of guidelines for management of hypercholesterolaemia, their implementation in clinical practice is still poor. Only 43.10% of patients reached the FJETF-recommended LDL-C goal, 45.24% achieved the 2001 NCEP ATP III recommended LDL-C goal, and only 21.51% — reached the 2004 NCEP ATP III recommended target. Males, CHD patients and those who were aware of LDL-C targets had more chance of reaching their desired LDL-C target.
Height unification using GOCE
Authors: Rummel R.
Published: August 2013

With the gravity field and steady-state ocean circulation explorer (GOCE) (preferably combined with the gravity field and climate experiment (GRACE)) a new generation of geoid models will become available for use in height determination. These models will be globally consistent, accurate (<3 cm) and with a spatial resolution up to degree and order 200, when expressed in terms of a spherical harmonic expansion. GOCE is a mission of the European Space Agency (ESA). It is the first satellite equipped with a gravitational gradiometer, in the case of GOCE it measures the gradient components Vxx , Vyy, Vzzand Vxz. The GOCE gravitational sensor system comprises also a geodetic global positioning system (GPS)-receiver, three star sensors and ion-thrusters for drag compensation in flight direction. GOCE was launched in March 2009 and will fly till the end of 2013. Several gravity models have been derived from its data, their maximum degree is typically between 240 and 250. In summer 2012 a first re-processing of all level-1b data took place. One of the science objectives of GOCE is the unification of height systems. The existing height offsets among the datum zones can be determined by least-squares adjustment. This requires several precise geodetic reference points available in each height datum zone, physical heights from spirit levelling (plus gravimetry), the GOCE geoid and, in addition, short wavelength geoid refinement from terrestrial gravity anomalies. GOCE allows for important simplifications of the functional and stochastic part of the adjustment model. The future trend will be the direct determination of physical heights (orthometric as well as normal) from precise global navigation satellite system (GNSS)-positioning in combination with a next generation combined satellite-terrestrial high-resolution geoid model.
Unification of European height system realizations
Authors: Rülke A. , Liebsch G. , Sacher M. , Schäfer U. , Schirmer U. , Ihde J.
Published: August 2013

A suitable representation of the regional gravity field is used to estimate relative offsets between national height system realizations in Europe. The method used is based on a gravimetric approach and benefits from the significant improvements in the determination of the global gravity field by the recent satellite gravity missions the Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) and the Gravity field and steady-state Ocean Circulation Explorerr (GOCE). The potential of these missions for the unification of height reference frames is analyzed in terms of accuracy and spatial resolution. The results of the gravimetric approach are compared to the independent results of the geodetic leveling approach. Advantages and drawbacks of both methods are discussed.
Intercontinental height datum connection with GOCE and GPS-levelling data
Authors: Gruber T. , Gerlach C. , Haagmans R.
Published: August 2013

In this study an attempt is made to establish height system datum connections based upon a gravity field and steady-state ocean circulation explorer (GOCE) gravity field model and a set of global positioning system (GPS) and levelling data. The procedure applied in principle is straightforward. First local geoid heights are obtained point wise from GPS and levelling data. Then the mean of these geoid heights is computed for regions nominally referring to the same height datum. Subsequently, these local mean geoid heights are compared with a mean global geoid from GOCE for the same region. This way one can identify an offset of the local to the global geoid per region. This procedure is applied to a number of regions distributed worldwide. Results show that the vertical datum offset estimates strongly depend on the nature of the omission error, i.e. the signal not represented in the GOCE model. For a smooth gravity field the commission error of GOCE, the quality of the GPS and levelling data and the averaging control the accuracy of the vertical datum offset estimates. In case the omission error does not cancel out in the mean value computation, because of a sub-optimal point distribution or a characteristic behaviour of the omitted part of the geoid signal, one needs to estimate a correction for the omission error from other sources. For areas with dense and high quality ground observations the EGM2008 global model is a good choice to estimate the omission error correction in theses cases. Relative intercontinental height datum offsets are estimated by applying this procedure between the United State of America (USA), Australia and Germany. These are compared to historical values provided in the literature and computed with the same procedure. The results obtained in this study agree on a level of 10 cm to the historical results. The changes mainly can be attributed to the new global geoid information from GOCE, rather than to the ellipsoidal heights or the levelled heights. These historical levelling data are still in use in many countries. This conclusion is supported by other results on the validation of the GOCE models.
Spanish Version of the Broome Pelvic Muscle Self-Efficacy Scale: Validity and Reliability
Authors: Medrano Sánchez Esther M. , Suárez Serrano Carmen M. , De la Casa Almeida María , Díaz Mohedo Esther , Chillón Martínez Raquel
Published: August 2013

Background

Self-efficacy appears to be an important predictor of functional recovery for women with urinary incontinence, but no specific Spanish-language questionnaires for measuring pelvic-floor exercise self-efficacy exist.

Objective

The aim of this study was to design a valid and reliable Spanish version of the Broome Pelvic Muscle Self-Efficacy Scale to measure self-efficacy, as perceived by women with urinary incontinence, in performing pelvic-floor exercises.

Design

This was an observational validation study.

Methods

Translation-back translation was used to design the survey, and then the survey was validated with a sample of 119 women who were incontinent and had undergone a pelvic-floor exercise training program. The reliability and construct validity of the questionnaire were assessed. Descriptive statistics were used to score the questionnaire. Internal consistency was evaluated with the Cronbach alpha coefficient and the Pearson correlation coefficient. Exploratory factor analysis with both the principal components extraction method and the varimax rotation method was used to assess construct validity.

Results

The reliability coefficient (Cronbach alpha=.91) and the correlations among items were high. The factor analysis revealed that 6 main factors accounted for 75.8% of the variance.

Limitations

Conclusions regarding the validity of the questionnaire should be drawn with caution because of the inability to assess criterion-related validity.

Conclusions

The Spanish version of the Broome questionnaire for self-efficacy appears to be useful as a measuring tool for a psychometrically accurate, clinically relevant estimation of women's self-efficacy in performing pelvic-floor exercises.
An institutional series and literature review of pial arteriovenous fistulas in the pediatric population
Authors: Madsen Peter J. , Lang Shih-Shan , Pisapia Jared M. , Storm Phillip B. , Hurst Robert W. , Heuer Gregory G.
Published: August 2013

Object

Pial arteriovenous fistulas (PAVFs) are a rare form of cerebrovascular disease that tend to be overrepresented in the pediatric population. There have been limited studies of the clinical features and outcomes in this group of patients. Here, the authors attempt to better delineate this clinical entity with institutional cases and a review of the literature.

Methods

A retrospective review of cases at our institution was performed to identify all pediatric patients treated for a PAVF between 2000 and 2012.

Results

Five patients treated for a PAVF were identified. Patients had a mean age of 1.9 years at diagnosis, and the most common presenting symptoms were seizure and macrocephaly. Patients were treated primarily with embolization, and 3 patients required both N-butyl cyanoacrylate (NBCA) glue and coiling. Four of the patients had complete obliteration of the PAVF and had a pediatric overall performance category score of either 1 (n = 3) or 2 (n = 1) at follow-up. There was 1 death due to heart failure. Analysis of the literature review suggested that a younger age or presence of intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) or congestive heart failure (CHF) at presentation likely predicts a worse prognosis. Older patients presented more often with ICH, whereas younger patients presented significantly more often in CHF. The majority of pediatric patients reported on in the literature were treated with endovascular embolization, most commonly with NBCA glue alone. Most patients (65.4%) in the literature had an excellent outcome without neurological deficit.

Conclusions

Pial AVFs represent a serious yet rare form of cerebrovascular disease. Pediatric patients with ICH or CHF at presentation or those who are very young are likely to have a worse prognosis. Endovascular management of these patients has greatly changed the natural history of this disease, but the complication and mortality rates suggest the need for continued insights and advances in treatment.
Positive predictive factors and subgroup analysis of clinically relevant improvement after anterior cervical decompression and fusion for cervical disc disease: a 10- to 13-year follow-up of a prospective randomized study
Authors: Hermansen Anna , Hedlund Rune , Vavruch Ludek , Peolsson Anneli
Published: August 2013

Object

The main purpose of this 10- to 13-year follow-up of a prospective randomized study was to identify preoperative factors that predicted good long-term outcome after anterior cervical decompression and fusion (ACDF) with the Cloward procedure or the cervical intervertebral fusion cage. A second purpose was to investigate subgroup differences at the 10-year follow-up between patients with and without clinically relevant improvement (CRI) and between men and women.

Methods

To evaluate clinically meaningful outcomes, good outcome was defined as CRI in neck-related pain intensity (≥ 30-mm improvement on a visual analog scale), and CRI in neck-specific disability (≥ 20% improvement in the neck disability index [NDI]) from preoperative measurements to the 10-year follow-up. A total of 73 patients (77% of the original study sample) completed questionnaires at least 10 years after ACDF.

Results

High preoperative neck-related pain intensity and preoperative nonsmoking status were predictors of CRI in neck-related pain intensity, and male sex was a predictor of CRI in neck-specific disability; however, no additional predictive factors were identified for good outcome after ACDF. The surgical procedure, number of operated levels, and radiological factors such as healing status did not influence the prediction models. Individuals without CRI in neck-specific disability (75%) and pain intensity (43%) reported a worse outcome for several psychosocial outcome variables compared with those with CRI. At the 10-year follow-up, women reported significantly greater neck- and arm-related pain intensity than men, and women also reported more disability and worse psychosocial status. Women reported CRI on the NDI less frequently than men (p = 0.01).

Conclusions

Preoperative predictive factors of good outcome 10–13 years after ACDF included initial high neck-related pain intensity, nonsmoking status at the time of surgery, and male sex. There were greater improvements in pain intensity than in neck-specific disability, and the latter showed a greater association with psychosocial factors. These results suggest the need for multimodal postoperative rehabilitation for patients who do not have a satisfactory outcome after ACDF.
Upper cervical cord compression due to a C-1 posterior arch in a patient with ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament and a kyphotic cervical spine in the protruded-head position
Authors: Takeuchi Mikinobu , Wakao Norimitsu , Kamiya Mitsuhiro , Niwa Aichi , Osuka Koji , Takayasu Masakazu
Published: August 2013

In this paper the authors report the case of a patient with ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL) below the axial vertebra (C-2) at the kyphotic cervical spine, with an atlas vertebra (C-1) posterior arch that compressed the spinal cord with the head in a pathognomonic position, similar to a protruded position. This condition appears to be very rare. The morphological findings between the kyphotic cervical spine and OPLL, the upper occipitocervical junction, and the protruded-head position are discussed. A 40-year-old man presented with severe pain radiating to both legs when he yawned, sneezed, or extended his jaw (a protruded-head position). A kyphotic cervical spine with OPLL below C-2 was observed using CT and radiography, yet sagittal T2-weighted MRI failed to identify abnormal findings in a neutral or extension position, except for a slight cervical canal stenosis. However, in a pathognomonic protruded-head position, sagittal T2-weighted MRI showed a C-1 posterior arch that severely compressed the spinal cord at the upper cervical level. Therefore, the authors believe that the severe pain radiating to both legs was caused by a spinal canal stenosis due to a C-1 posterior arch impingement. The C-1 posterior arch was resected, and after the surgery, the patient indicated that the intolerable pain had disappeared. In conclusion, in patients with OPLL and a kyphotic cervical spine, the authors propose that the pathognomonic protruded position is valuable for estimating disrupted compensatory mechanisms at the upper cervical junction.
Divine Epithets and the Dibacchius: Clausulae and Qur'anic Rhythm
Authors: Stewart Devin J.
Published: August 2013

Scholars of the Arabic rhetorical tradition and commentators on the rhetorical aspects of the Qur'an made important observations regarding the verse-final word (al-fāṣila) in Qur'anic verses, which in most cases corresponds to the final metrical foot of the verse. They noted when its morphological pattern (wazn, ṣīgha) either matched or did not match those of the verse-final words in adjacent verses and also discussed the deviations from ordinary grammar, syntax, morphology and style affecting these verse-final words that occurred for the sake of rhyme and rhythmical parallelism. Classical rhetoricians such as Cicero and Quintilian, in contrast, examined the two final feet of periods in Latin oratory, suggesting that certain combinations of feet were preferable on the grounds that they provided for a satisfactory closing cadence. Applying their methods to the Qur'an, this study examines verses and passages in which metrical considerations constrain penultimate feet, identifies common verse-final metrical patterns, and points out cases in which the syntax, idioms and style have been altered for the sake of rhythm. This exercise suggests that while the basic prosody of Qur'anic sajʿ is accentual, based on the number of stresses in adjacent verses, quantitative rhythmical parallelism becomes more important at the ends of verses and often includes penultimate feet.
The Core of the Qur'an: Sūrat Yā Sīn (Q. 36)
Authors: Haleem M.A.S. Abdel
Published: August 2013

The Prophet dubbed Sūrat Yā Sīn the ‘core of the Qur'an’. This article attempts to explain the reasons for this. It highlights the central theme of the sura, the resurrection of the dead: Yā Sīn provides the longest presentation of this subject in one single sura, dealing with all the arguments the disbelievers bring up against it. Contrary to the opinions of some scholars, the structure of this sura, seen in the succession of its well-connected parts, with additional consolidation from a web of recurring expressions, is shown to be completely coherent. The article elucidates some of the stylistic features of the sura and ends with an account of the special significance of Sūrat Yā Sīn for Muslim believers, individually and collectively, throughout the world.
Evaluation of Antioxidant Status of Two Limoniastrum Species Growing Wild in Tunisian Salty Lands
Authors: Debouba Mohamed , Zouari Sami , Zouari Nacim
Published: August 2013

We aim to highlight the differential antioxidant status of Limoniastrum guyonianum and Limoniastrum monopetalum in relation to their respective chemical and location characteristics. Metabolite analysis revealed similar contents in phenolic, flavonoïds, sugars and chlorophyll in the two species’ leaves. Higher amounts of proline (Pro), carotenoïds (Carot), sodium (Na) and potassium (K) were measured in L. monopetalum leaves relative to L. guyonianum ones. While the two Limoniastrum species have similar free radical DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) scavenging activity, L. guyonianum showed more than two-fold higher ferrous ions chelating activity relative to L. monopetalum. However, highest reducing power activity was observed in L. monopetalum. Thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS) determination indicated that L. monopetalum behave better lipid membrane integrity relative to L. guyonianum. These findings suggested that the lesser stressful state of L. monopetalum was related to higher metabolites accumulation and reducing capacity compared to L. guyonianum.
Repair of the Peripheral Nerve—Remyelination that Works
Authors: Svennigsen Åsa , Dahlin Lars
Published: August 2013

In this review we summarize the events known to occur after an injury in the peripheral nervous system. We have focused on the Schwann cells, as they are the most important cells for the repair process and facilitate axonal outgrowth. The environment created by this cell type is essential for the outcome of the repair process. The review starts with a description of the current state of knowledge about the initial events after injury, followed by Wallerian degeneration, and subsequent regeneration. The importance of surgical repair, carried out as soon as possible to increase the chances of a good outcome, is emphasized throughout the review. The review concludes by describing the target re-innervation, which today is one of the most serious problems for nerve regeneration. It is clear, compiling this data, that even though regeneration of the peripheral nervous system is possible, more research in this area is needed in order to perfect the outcome.