bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating technological resilience of small drinking water systems under the projected changes of climate
Authors: Rajib Mohammad Adnan , Rahman Md. Mujibur , McBean Edward A.
Published: April 2012

With prevailing changes in climate and increasing population, small drinking water systems in the climate-vulnerable parts of the world have already exhibited and left traces of prominent unpredictability of water availability, in terms of both water quantity and water quality. Dimensions of climate change, such as large variability in precipitation pattern, rise in temperature and associated increase in evaporation rates, as well as their consequences, are surely going to affect the unsophisticated, small drinking water systems which are serving mass populations in South Asia and many other parts of the world. This research paper aims to analyze the possible extents of vulnerability of some selected small drinking water systems currently being operated in the coastal areas of Bangladesh as a result of the predicted changes in climatic parameters such as temperature, precipitation and evaporation along with sea level rise and extreme events such as cyclones. However, to examine possible future climate change scenarios, four Global Climate Models have been applied in developing projections of different climatic parameters for Bangladesh. Based on the projections of climate models and associated key vulnerabilities being assessed, this paper features the evaluation of potential technological resilience of specific small drinking water systems from the Bangladesh perspective.
Lessons from Peer Support Among Individuals with Mental Health Difficulties: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Miyamoto Yuki , Sono Tamaki
Published: April 2012

We conducted a comprehensive narrative review and used a systematic search strategy to identify studies related to peer support among adults with mental health difficulties. The purposes of this review were to describe the principles, effects and benefits of peer support documented in the published literature, to discuss challenging aspects of peer support and to investigate lessons from peer support. Fifty-one studies, including 8 review articles and 19 qualitative studies, met the inclusion criteria for this review. Most of the challenges for peer support were related to “role” and “relationship” issues; that is, how peer support providers relate to people who receive peer support and how peer support providers are treated in the system. The knowledge gained from peer support relationships, such as mutual responsibility and interdependence, might be a clue toward redefining the helper-helper relationship as well as the concepts of help and support.
Soft Tissue Attenuation Patterns Associated with Supine Acquisition SPECT Myocardial Perfusion Imaging: A Descriptive Study
Authors: Doukky Rami , Rahaby Mouyyad , Alyousef Tareq , Vashistha Raj , Chawla Dave , Amin Amit P
Published: April 2012

Purpose:

Soft-tissue attenuation patterns in SPECT-myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) of supine acquisition systems are well recognized. Their prevalence and interaction with body-habitus and gender are ill-defined, which we sought to describe in this study.

Methods:

In a cross-sectional study, we described the prevalence of soft-tissue attenuation patterns in normal SPECT-MPI studies acquired with a supine patient-position SPECT system.

Results:

In 263 normal, clinically-indicated, supine-acquisition SPECT-MPIs the attenuation patterns observed were: anterior (35.4%), inferior (41.8%) and lateral (13.3%). Anterior attenuation was more prevalent among women (50.7% vs. 15.7%, P<0.001) and was associated with chest circumference among men. Conversely, inferior attenuation was more prevalent among men (78.3% vs. 13.5%, P<0.001) and was not affected by body-habitus. Lateral attenuation was more common among women (19.6% vs. 5.2%, p=0.001) and was associated with obesity (p=0.015).

Conclusions:

Soft-tissue attenuation artifacts are common in supine-acquisition SPECT-MPI. The recognition of their prevalence and association with body-habitus and gender is critical for the accurate interpretation of SPECT-MPI.
Morphology and immunohistochemical studies of ovarian strumal carcinoid
Authors: Mocko-Kacanski Mihaela , Levakov Aleksandra , Djolai Matilda , Bozanic Snezana , Amidzic Jelena
Published: April 2012

Introduction. Teratomas are tumors derived from pluripotent germ cells, and
they appear most frequently in ovaries. Strumal carcinoid belongs to the
group of monodermal teratomas. Strumal carcinoid is characterized by the
presence of carcinoid tumor, intermingled with thyroid tissue. Case report. A
52-year-old postmenopausal woman was referred to the Department of Gynecology
and Obstetrics, Clinical Center of Vojvodina, Novi Sad with complex right
adnexal mass for surgery. Laparotomy revealed tumor arising from the right
ovary, of firm consistency and intact capsule. On gross examination,
yellowish brown tumor was 26 x 17 x 10 cm, with vague nodularity. The cut
sections revealed predominantly solid mass with two cystic areas, and one of
the cysts showed a tuft of hair. On histopathological examination, the cystic
spaces were lined with skin and mucinous epithelium. The solid areas showed a
population of monomorphic cells with eosinophilic cytoplasm and nuclei with
?salt and pepper? chromatin, arranged in acinar and trabecular patterns,
respectively. In addition, focally follicular structures with central
eosinophilic colloid-like material were seen. Based on the presence of these
two components, a diagnosis of Strumal Carcinoid was made and confirmed on
immunohistochemistry. The tumor cells were diffusely immunopositive for
synaptophysin, chromogranin, and the follicles including the central colloid
were immunopositive for thyroglobulin and Thyroid transcription factor-1.
Neither proliferative or mitotic activity nor capsular or angiolymphatic
invasion were noticed. At 3 year follow up the patient was disease free.
Conclusion. In order to diagnose this rare tumor a team, consisting of a
pathologist, surgeon and radiologist, is needed. Diagnosis of strumal
carcinoid has to be confirmed on immunohistochemistry.
Side effects of antiviral therapy in patients with chronic hepatitis C infection
Authors: Kostic Velimir , Jovanovic Maja , Radovic Jelena , Vujic Stevan
Published: April 2012

Introduction. Chronic hepatitis C currently represents a global health
problem, which is expected to be reduced by pegylated-interferon and
ribavirin therapy. Material and Methods. We examined 88 patients with chronic
hepatitis C, divided into three groups according to their comorbidity: the
patients without comorbidity were in group I, group II included the patients
on dialysis, and group III included the patients with hemophilia. Results. A
significant difference was found in the percentage of achieved sustained
virological response between the patients on dialysis and other patients,
p<0.05. Having analyzed the therapy adverse effects, we observed a
significantly higher decrease of erythrocytes count, hemoglobin and
hematocrit levels in dialysis patients compared to others (p<0.01). The
patients on hemodialysis predominantly had anemia and leukopenia, while
thrombocytopenia was equally present in all groups. The dominant clinical
side effect was flu-like syndrome, present in more than a half of patients.
Discussion. The therapy positive effect is usually accompanied with adverse
effects. The lowest therapeutic response was recorded in group II, due to the
virus genotype 1. A significant decrease in hematological parameters was
determined in all patients. The most common clinical adverse effect was
flu-like syndrome, later manifestations included: weight loss, alopecia,
insomnia and irritability. Side effects like psychosis, thyroid gland
dysfunction or psoriasis were not recorded. Conclusion. A significant
decrease in the value of all these hematological parameters was found in all
groups of patients. Clinical side effects were present in 60% of patients.
Side effects did not lead to discontinuation of therapy, but only to
modification of drug doses.
One-year clinical evaluation of compomer restorations in cervical lesions of different aetiology
Authors: Premovic Milica , Ramic Bojana , Stojanac Igor , Drobac Milan , Petrovic Ljubomir
Published: April 2012

Introduction. The aim of this one-year prospective clinical study was to
evaluate the treatment results of compomer restorations (Dyract? eXtra/
Dentsply/De Trey, Konstanz, Germany) with a single step self-etching dental
adhesive (Xeno? III Dentsply/De Trey, Konstanz, Germany) used for restoring
class V lesions (non-carious and primary carious cervical lesions). Material
and Methods. A total number of 62 class V restorations (n = 62) were placed
by one dentist in 30 patients on incisors, canines and premolars. The
fillings were placed due to different indications: non-carious cervical
defects (n = 32) and primary carious lesions (n = 30). The restorations were
evaluated by a single-blind design, according to the Modified United States
Public Health Service system 6 and 12 months following the placement. The
following were evaluated: retention, marginal integrity, marginal
discoloration, wear, postoperative sensitivity and secondary caries. The
statistical analysis compared the ratings of each criteria between materials
using the Pearson chi-square or Fisher?s exact test at a level of
significance of 5% (p<0.05). Results. Two restorations of the non-carious
lesion group were lost after 6 months, and after 12 months one restoration
was lost in the group of primary carious lesions. There were no statistically
significant differences between restorations for all evaluated criteria in
both groups. Conclusion. The compomer restorations in combination with a
single step self-etching dental adhesive showed acceptable clinical
performance in Class V lesions after one year of clinical service.
Burnout syndrom as a mental health problem among medical students
Authors: Backovic Dusan , Jevtic Marija
Published: April 2012

Introduction. Mental health problems of adolescents are among the prevailing
problems of public health. While studying for their future medical
profession, the students of medicine have to exchange emotions with the
patients intensively, and the empathic relationship itself bears a risk of
eventual ?emotional depletion?, which leads to ?professional lack of
emotions?. The study was aimed at presenting burnout syndrome as a challenge
for mental health of medical students, its importance for the future
professional engagement of doctors and the possibilities of its prevention.
Methods. The authors of this paper review and analyze data and conclusions of
previous national and international studies from this field and suggest
possibilities of overcoming the condition of burnout. Results. The frequency
of burnout syndrome, which is the synonym for the above mentioned condition
of emotional exhaustion, is twice as high in medical professionals,
particularly young ones, as in other professions on average. Burnout syndrome
is nowadays regarded as a psychological distress experienced during the
educational process and it has been observed in as many as 50% of medical
students. The most significant factors independently associated with student
burnout are: personality traits, stressful personal life events and learning
and training conditions at their faculties. Conclusions. It is of utmost
importance to understand the causes and consequences of psychological
distress in students, and the faculties should not only identify these
problems, but also endeavor to promote health by developing strategies for
improving personal well-being, which are important for future doctors to
achieve professional success and develop resistance to stress.
Trends in use of injection drugs in the Health Centre Novi Sad
Authors: Nikolic Bozana
Published: April 2012

Introduction. The Health Centre of Novi Sad deals primarily with prevention,
but also provides curative health care. This paper was aimed at investigating
trends in the use of injection drugs in out-patients visiting this
institution in the period from 2005 to 2009. Material and Methods. The use of
injection drugs was calculated according to the Anatomical Therapeutic
Chemical/Defined Daily Doses methodology. The results were expressed as the
number of defined daily doses per 1000 inhabitants/day. Results and
Discussion. The total use of injection drugs was 21.2696 defined daily doses
/1000 inhabitants/day in 2005, 31.8427 defined daily doses /1000
inhabitants/day in 2006, 36.0633 defined daily doses /1000 inhabitants/ day
in 2007, 34.4823 defined daily doses /1000 inhabitants/ day in 2008 and
26.2189 defined daily doses /1000 inhabitants/ day in 2009. The drug with the
highest number of defined daily doses was hydroxocobolamin during all five
years (accounting for about 90% of the total number of defined daily doses).
In the observed period, the use of low molecular weight heparins increased
from 0.0599 in 2005 to 0.2705 in 2009. The use of anti-infective drugs
decreased from 0.6133 in 2005 to 0.2634 in 2009. A change in the structure of
use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs was observed. Conclusion. The
total use of injections in the observed period showed annual oscillations.
The trend of use of low molecular weight heparins and the qualitative change
in use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs was in accordance with the
trend and the use in developed countries, while the use of hydroxocobolamin
and gentamicin increased. The promotion of oral medications and the reduced
prescription of injection drugs are the possibilities to be taken into
consideration, especially in the use of hydroxocobolamin.
Survival of patients with end-stage chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in relation to smoking habits
Authors: Tot-Veres Kristina
Published: April 2012

Introduction. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is estimated to become
the fifth leading cause of death worldwide by 2020. The mortality and
morbidity from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is getting higher and
higher as a result of the epidemics in tobacco consumption all over the
world, especially in developing countries. The study objectives were to
determine the correlation between the smoking habits and mortality in the
patients with chronic obstructive lung diseases, to evaluate the two-year and
five-year survival depending on the smoking habits, to compare and correlate
the smoking habits and a decrease in the lung function. Material and Methods.
This observational, retrospective-prospective study was carried out from 2001
to 2007 to monitor the two-year and five-year survival in respect to the
smoking habits. During the study, both groups of smokers and non-smokers
underwent spirometry, and the pulmonary function was measured at least once a
year and the values were compared. The average values were calculated and
compared between the two groups. Results. The study revealed a statistically
significant difference in the two-year and five-year survival in end-stage
chronic obstructive pulmonary disease depending on the smoking habits. In
addition, it pointed to a higher relative decrease in the pulmonary function
in smokers suffering from very severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
than in non-smokers and former smokers suffering from end-stage of this
disease. Discussion and Conclusion According to this study, the progression
to the end stage of this disease is faster in smokers suffering from chronic
obstructive pulmonary disease than in the non-smokers and the former smokers
who suffer from this disease.
Functional recovery of post stroke patients with hemiparesis after stroke of different aetiology
Authors: Mandic Milan
Published: April 2012

Introduction. Medical rehabilitation focuses on improvement of functional
recovery in post stroke patients. The aim of the work was to analyze
functional recovery in a cohort of post stroke patients with hemiparesis
three months after stroke. Material and Methods. A prospective, cohort study
included 30 patients from the city of Nis aged 40 to 69. The study was
conducted at the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation in Nis
from March 1 to June 30, 2009. The aetiology of stroke was determined by the
nuclear magnetic resonance. The average values, standard deviation, and
t-test were calculated. Results. Of the total sample of 30 patients, 23 (77%,
16 men and 7 women) had left hemiparesis and 7 (23%, 4 men and 3 women) had
right hemiparesis. The average age of the patients was 58.93? 6.86. Fourteen
(47%) patients were not able to move, 10 (33%) patients could move when they
were assisted by someone and only 6 (20%) patients could move independently.
Twenty-six (88%) patients were not able to take care of themselves without
assistance and 4 (13%) patients could take care of themselves. The average
Barthel Index score on admission to the Department of Physical Medicine and
Rehabilitation was 57 and 3 months after discharge it was 79; the determined
difference was statistically significant (p<0.01). At the end of the study,
57% of all the patients could walk without assistance. Conclusion. These
results suggest that disabled post stroke patients may attain significant
functional improvements in response to early rehabilitation as well as to
prolonged rehabilitation therapy.
Adverse events due to the immunization: Case report
Authors: Medic Snezana , Petrovic Vladimir
Published: April 2012

Introduction. An adverse event after immunization is a medical incident
following the administration of vaccine, which can be connected with vaccine
usage. This event could be a reaction to a vaccine component or lapse in
vaccine handling, transport and storage or coincidental event. The assessment
of severity of this reaction and the decision about prospective permanent
contraindications for futher immunization are to be made by the regional
expert team for permanent contraindications. This is regulated by low. Case
report. A series of adverse events after immunization in three children of a
single family is reported. As regulated by law, all three children were
vaccinated with different vaccines, from 2007. to 2010. Although the recorded
events were diverse by their nature, way of clinical manifestation and
severity they all required hospitalization. In addition to being siblings,
the three children had the same atopic diseases in their personal and family
anamnesis. All adverse events were explored including
allergological/immunological tests. Thanks to the good cooperation of
involved general practicioners, pediatricians, members of expert team for
permanent contraindications and clinicians, two of three children received
the full series of vaccines in optimal time. Discussion. Decision making
about futher immunization of children with adverse event after vaccine
administration depends on the nature and severity of developed medical
condition, results of medical exploration, existing immunity and personal
risk of getting disease and subsequent complications. Conclusion. Bearing in
mind the significance of immunization for personal and collective immunity,
good cooperation of all physicians and experts involved in each single case
of adverse event is required.
Anthropocentrism: Existence against essence
Authors: Vukicevic Slobodan
Published: April 2012

Anthropocentrism apsolutizes existence in relation to human essence. In this,
it may downgrade generic essence of human and its primeval need for nature.
Principles of sustainable development are challenged. The way of life and
work are out of step with these principles. Therefore, central question of
sustainable development is: where are the causes of modern man alienation
from principles of sustainable development. We have to search for the answers
in human nature and nature of human community. Their synthesis can direct
socioantropogenesis of modern man in direction of accepting principles of
sustainable development, in which principle of need is more important than
need itself.
Nanotechnologies and global survival
Authors: Mitrovic Veselin
Published: April 2012

The rapid development of science and technology from the mid-20th century, on
one hand, and increasing world population as well as decreasing of natural
resources on the other has raised the risk of escalating social conflicts.
Regarding this facts, it is inevitable to admit that the future of mankind
lies in acceptable moral and social implementation of this technologies.
Having that in mind, many questions have been generated about responsible
applications of nanotechnologies: about the positive and negative effects of
their usage, about patterns of their socio-spatial distribution both at
global and national level, about economic development of states who use those
technologies, and their possible effect of individual health and biosphere
preservation. Regarding those questions, it is necessary to use knowledge of
nature science as well as knowledge of philosophy, sociology, etc., in order
to analyze the level of development and life conditions in human communities
and differentiate between ?mere?, ?miserable?, ?idealistic?, ?irresponsible?
and ?acceptable? survival. Starting from sociological context and following
Potter?s concepts, this article argues for the concept of consurvivality that
is durable, acceptable, sustainable, realistic and global.
Urban social sustainability: A concept analysis
Authors: Mirkov Andjelka
Published: April 2012

The paper analyses the concept of urban social sustainability in order to
provide a systematization of the main ideas contained in various
interpretations of the term. First, it deals with the problems and dilemmas
in defining the term of urban social sustainability, showing complexity of
the idea and disagreements about its interpretation. Then it discusses the
relation between the main dimensions of sustainable development for the
purpose of explaining the two complement approaches to urban social
sustainability. One approach sees urban social sustainability as a mean of
achieving environmental and economic sustainability, while the other approach
analyses urban social sustainability as a value in itself. A significant part
of the paper concerns the dominant concepts within the discourse of urban
social sustainability. Normative principles and operational dimensions of the
term may be derived on the basis of these concepts.
Importance of strengthening of the democratic and political capacity in environmental policy of Serbia
Authors: Nadic Darko
Published: April 2012

Environmental policy is one of the new policies in the corpus of public
policies in Serbia. Although the beginning of environmental policy in Serbia,
or organized directing of society towards the environment, can be noticed
even at the beginning of the nineties, the real development and
intensification of this policy occurs only in the last five years. The
slowness of the acceptance of the political idea that society and the state
must change their attitude towards the environment is one of the causes of
inefficiency of environmental policy in Serbia. This is also supported by the
fact that in the process of conception and implementation of environmental
policy in Serbia an essential element is missing that is reflected in the
lack of sufficient democratic and political capacity. Environmental policy in
Serbia is still defined and viewed as a strictly national policy, as a right
and obligation of public authorities to protect the environment, while
completely neglecting the role of other social institutions and especially
the citizens. The lack of democracy in decision-making on environmental image
of Serbia is also visible in the non-use of different models of direct
democracy, and lack of objective and timely information of citizens about
environmental problems in the country. In that way, the combination of
impairment of democracy in decision-making, lack of information, as well as
slowness of solving environmental problems and so-called "black spots" in
Serbia leads to the conclusion that the environmental policy of the Republic
of Serbia, led by the state authorities, shows signs of a specific
"eco-monopolism" that is inappropriate in the democratic spirit of
environmental policy.
A low/high frequency combined approach for the identification of mechanical properties of composite structural elements
Authors: Bartoli Ivan , Marzaniy Alessandro
Published: April 2012

A combined low/high frequency dynamic identification approach is presented.
The proposed hybrid technique compares experimentally extracted dynamic
properties of plates such as modal frequencies and guided wave dispersion
properties with the correspondent numerically predicted ones. Identification
of mechanical properties of the plates is achieved by iteratively adjusting
the mechanical properties assumed in finite element and semi-analytical
models through minimization of the difference between experimental and
predicted dynamic features.
Stress amplification in three-dimensional narrow zones created by cavities
Authors: Syngellakis Stavros
Published: April 2012

The paper is concerned with a particular case of stress amplification arising
from the proximity of a spherical cavity to the boundary of a loaded elastic
solid. The performed approximate analysis yields distributions of stresses
and displacements in the narrow region formed between a spherical cavity and
the faces of a thin flat layer subjected to a far field uniform radial
tension. The narrow region is modelled as a circular plate of non-uniform
thickness undergoing coupled membrane and flexural deformation. Series
solutions are obtained for both membrane forces and bending moments leading
to estimates for the stress concentration factor at minimum thickness. These
predictions are found consistent with those obtained from both the exact
analytical solution and finite element modelling of the problem.
Cross-validated results from the two latter methods also provide trends for
the stress amplification due to the narrowness of the region.
Optimal inventory policies for imperfect inventory with price dependent stochastic demand and partially backlogged shortages
Authors: Bhowmick Jhuma , Samanta G.P.
Published: April 2012

The paper investigates a single period imperfect inventory model with price
dependent stochastic demand and partial backlogging. The backorder rate is a
nonlinear non-increasing function of the magnitude of shortage. Two special
cases are considered assuming that the percentage of defective items follows
a truncated exponential distribution and a normal distribution respectively.
The optimal order quantity and the optimal mark up value are determined such
that the expected total profit of the system is maximized. Numerical example
is given to illustrate the proposed model which is compared with the
traditional model of perfect stock. Sensitivity analysis is performed to
explain the behavior of the proposed model with respect to the key
parameters.
Connexin-36 Gap Junctions Regulate In Vivo First- and Second-Phase Insulin Secretion Dynamics and Glucose Tolerance in the Conscious Mouse
Authors: Head W. Steven , Orseth Meredith L. , Nunemaker Craig S. , Satin Leslie S. , Piston David W. , Benninger Richard K.P.
Published: April 2012

Insulin is secreted from the islets of Langerhans in coordinated pulses. These pulses are thought to lead to plasma insulin oscillations, which are putatively more effective in lowering blood glucose than continuous levels of insulin. Gap-junction coupling of β-cells by connexin-36 coordinates intracellular free calcium oscillations and pulsatile insulin release in isolated islets, however a role in vivo has not been shown. We test whether loss of gap-junction coupling disrupts plasma insulin oscillations and whether this impacts glucose tolerance. We characterized the connexin-36 knockout (Cx36−/−) mouse phenotype and performed hyperglycemic clamps with rapid sampling of insulin in Cx36−/− and control mice. Our results show that Cx36−/− mice are glucose intolerant, despite normal plasma insulin levels and insulin sensitivity. However, Cx36−/− mice exhibit reduced insulin pulse amplitudes and a reduction in first-phase insulin secretion. These changes are similarly found in isolated Cx36−/− islets. We conclude that Cx36 gap junctions regulate the in vivo dynamics of insulin secretion, which in turn is important for glucose homeostasis. Coordinated pulsatility of individual islets enhances the first-phase elevation and second-phase pulses of insulin. Because these dynamics are disrupted in the early stages of type 2 diabetes, dysregulation of gap-junction coupling could be an important factor in the development of this disease.
Recycling Between Cortisol and Cortisone in Human Splanchnic, Subcutaneous Adipose, and Skeletal Muscle Tissues In Vivo
Authors: Hughes Katherine A. , Manolopoulos Konstantinos N. , Iqbal Javaid , Cruden Nicholas L. , Stimson Roland H. , Reynolds Rebecca M. , Newby David E. , Andrew Ruth , Karpe Fredrik , Walker Brian R.
Published: April 2012

11β-Hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (11βHSD1) is a therapeutic target in metabolic syndrome because it catalyses reductase regeneration of cortisol from cortisone in adipose and liver. 11βHSD1 can also catalyze the reverse dehydrogenase reaction in vitro (e.g., if cofactor is limited). We used stable isotope tracers to test the hypothesis that both 11βHSD1-reductase and -dehydrogenase activities occur in human metabolic tissues in vivo. 1,2-[2H]2-Cortisone (d2-cortisone) was validated as a tracer for 11β-dehydrogenase activity and its inhibition by licorice. d2-Cortisone and 9,11,12,12-[2H]4-cortisol (d4-cortisol) (to measure 11β-reductase activity) were coinfused and venous samples obtained from skeletal muscle, subcutaneous adipose (n = 6), and liver (n = 4). Steroids were measured by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry and arteriovenous differences adjusted for blood flow. Data are means ± SEM. 11β-Reductase and -dehydrogenase activities were detected in muscle (cortisol release 19.7 ± 4.1 pmol/100 mL/min, d3-cortisol 5.9 ± 1.8 pmol/100 mL/min, and cortisone 15.2 ± 5.8 pmol/100 mL/min) and splanchnic (cortisol 64.0 ± 11.4 nmol/min, d3-cortisol 12.9 ± 2.1 nmol/min, and cortisone 19.5 ± 2.8 nmol/min) circulations. In adipose, dehydrogenase was more readily detected than reductase (cortisone release 38.7 ± 5.8 pmol/100 g/min). Active recycling between cortisol and cortisone in metabolic tissues in vivo may facilitate dynamic control of intracellular cortisol but makes consequences of dysregulation of 11βHSD1 transcription in obesity and diabetes unpredictable. Disappointing efficacy of 11βHSD1 inhibitors in phase II studies could be explained by lack of selectivity for 11β-reductase.
Metabolic Signatures of Insulin Resistance in 7,098 Young Adults
Authors: Würtz Peter , Mäkinen Ville-Petteri , Soininen Pasi , Kangas Antti J. , Tukiainen Taru , Kettunen Johannes , Savolainen Markku J. , Tammelin Tuija , Viikari Jorma S. , Rönnemaa Tapani , Kähönen Mika , Lehtimäki Terho , Ripatti Samuli , Raitakari Olli T. , Järvelin Marjo-Riitta , Ala-Korpela Mika
Published: April 2012

Metabolite associations with insulin resistance were studied in 7,098 young Finns (age 31 ± 3 years; 52% women) to elucidate underlying metabolic pathways. Insulin resistance was assessed by the homeostasis model (HOMA-IR) and circulating metabolites quantified by high-throughput nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy in two population-based cohorts. Associations were analyzed using regression models adjusted for age, waist, and standard lipids. Branched-chain and aromatic amino acids, gluconeogenesis intermediates, ketone bodies, and fatty acid composition and saturation were associated with HOMA-IR (P < 0.0005 for 20 metabolite measures). Leu, Ile, Val, and Tyr displayed sex- and obesity-dependent interactions, with associations being significant for women only if they were abdominally obese. Origins of fasting metabolite levels were studied with dietary and physical activity data. Here, protein energy intake was associated with Val, Phe, Tyr, and Gln but not insulin resistance index. We further tested if 12 genetic variants regulating the metabolites also contributed to insulin resistance. The genetic determinants of metabolite levels were not associated with HOMA-IR, with the exception of a variant in GCKR associated with 12 metabolites, including amino acids (P < 0.0005). Nonetheless, metabolic signatures extending beyond obesity and lipid abnormalities reflected the degree of insulin resistance evidenced in young, normoglycemic adults with sex-specific fingerprints.
A parametric study on coal gasification for the production of syngas
Authors: Gungor Afsin , Ozbayoglu Murat , Kasnakoglu Cosku , Biyikoglu Atilla , Uysal Bekir
Published: April 2012

In this parametric study, the effects of coal and oxidiser type, air-to-fuel ratio, steam-to-fuel ratio, reactor temperature, and pressure on H2 and CO amounts at the gasifier output, H2/CO, and higher heating value of the syngas produced have been calculated using a coal gasification model. Model simulations have been performed to identify the optimum values which are assumed to be 100 % for both cold gas efficiency and carbon conversion efficiency in the gasification process. From this study, it may be observed that the moisture content of the coal type is of crucial importance for the air gasification process; the O2 content of similar coals (taking into consideration the moisture and H2 content) is of significant importance for the air gasification process. When compared with air gasification, air-steam gasification becomes a more effective coal gasification method. The optimum working condition for air-steam gasification is to carry out the process at one atmosphere. High gasifier temperatures are not needed for the air-steam gasification of coal.
Preparation and properties of cementitious composites for geothermal applications
Authors: Palou Martin , Bágeľ Ľubomír
Published: April 2012

Three fiber-reinforced cement composites were prepared and cured in an autoclave for up to 168 h at 2 MPa of steam pressure in order to investigate the effect of hydrothermal curing on the alteration of pore structure, density, and formation and stability of hydrated products with time. Compressive strength was reviewed in connection with sample porosity. It was found that the time of autoclaving plays a crucial role in objective assessment of the durability of composites as potential candidates for geothermal applications. A mercury intrusion porosimeter Quantachrome Poremaster 60GT was used for the estimation of the pore structure parameters of composites. The thermal analysis method was used to identify different temperature ranges of cured samples’ thermal decomposition and to characterize the nature of hydrated products. Two kinds of products were formed. The first group consisted of calcium-silicate-hydrate (C-S-H), calcium-silicate-aluminate-hydrate (C-S-A-H), calcium-aluminate-hydrate (C-A-H), and calcium-carbonate (C-C) as a product of carbonation. The second group are chemically bond products, e.g. hydroxyapatite (Ca5(PO4)3(OH)) and gibbsite (Al(OH)3). These two hydroceramic products formed under hydrothermal conditions act also as binders and they can be useful as geothermal cement binders.
Induction of Cryptococcus laurentii α-galactosidase
Authors: Mészárosová Csilla , Kolarova Nadežda , Vadkertiová Renáta , Stratilová Eva
Published: April 2012

The surface activity of Cryptococcus laurentii α-galactosidase can be significantly (up to 80 times) influenced by a carbon source present in a cultivation medium. Induction of this enzyme is stimulated by the presence of saccharides containing bound galactose. The highest activity observed when the cells grew in a lactose medium was probably a consequence of the absence of cleavage products serving as repressors (glucose). This idea is supported by the poor growth of cells in the medium with lactose as the carbon source. The induction of surface α-galactosidase was accompanied by increased activities in cytosole. The membrane fraction also contained this enzyme, but the influence of the carbon source was not proportional. The induction of α-galactosidase may play an important role in galactose metabolism of the genus Cryptococcus with a direct influence on the virulence of these capsular yeasts.
Bulk rock composition and geochemistry of olivine-hosted melt inclusions in the Grey Porri Tuff and selected lavas of the Monte dei Porri volcano, Salina, Aeolian Islands, southern Italy
Authors: Doherty Angela , Bodnar Robert , Vivo Benedetto , Bohrson Wendy , Belkin Harvey , Messina Antonia , Tracy Robert
Published: April 2012

The Aeolian Islands are an arcuate chain of submarine seamounts and volcanic islands, lying just north of Sicily in southern Italy. The second largest of the islands, Salina, exhibits a wide range of compositional variation in its erupted products, from basaltic lavas to rhyolitic pumice. The Monte dei Porri eruptions occurred between 60 ka and 30 ka, following a period of approximately 60,000 years of repose. The bulk rock composition of the Monte dei Porri products range from basaltic-andesite scoria to andesitic pumice in the Grey Porri Tuff (GPT), with the Monte dei Porri lavas having basaltic-andesite compositions. The typical mineral assemblage of the GPT is calcic plagioclase, clinopyroxene (augite), olivine (Fo72−84) and orthopyroxene (enstatite) ± amphibole and Ti-Fe oxides. The lava units show a similar mineral assemblage, but contain lower Fo olivines (Fo57−78). The lava units also contain numerous glomerocrysts, including an unusual variety that contains quartz, K-feldspar and mica. Melt inclusions (MI) are ubiquitous in all mineral phases from all units of the Monte dei Porri eruptions; however, only data from olivine-hosted MI in the GPT are reported here. Compositions of MI in the GPT are typically basaltic (average SiO2 of 49.8 wt %) in the pumices and basaltic-andesite (average SiO2 of 55.6 wt %) in the scoriae and show a bimodal distribution in most compositional discrimination plots. The compositions of most of the MI in the scoriae overlap with bulk rock compositions of the lavas. Petrological and geochemical evidence suggest that mixing of one or more magmas and/or crustal assimilation played a role in the evolution of the Monte dei Porri magmatic system, especially the GPT. Analyses of the more evolved mineral phases are required to better constrain the evolution of the magma.
Interspecific hybridization in sympatric species of Daphnia inhabiting lakes in northeastern Poland
Authors: Brzeziński Tomasz , Fronk Jan , Trzcińska-Danielewicz Joanna , Dawidowicz Piotr
Published: April 2012

Populations of three sympatric species (Daphnia cucullata, Daphnia galeata, and Daphnia hyalina (Daphnia longispina complex)) inhabiting three lakes in northeastern Poland (Roś, Mikołajskie, Wigry) were checked for interspecific hybrids. Hybrid Daphnia coexisting with parental individuals were detected in each of the investigated lakes. Several classes of hybrids (F1, F2, backcrosses), including D. cucullata×galeata×hyalina individuals, have been detected. Hybrids constituted a substantial (13%–38%) part of the total abundance of individuals of the D. longispina complex. Deficiency of heterozygotes (hybrids) detected may indicate the existence of barriers for gene flow between the sympatric Daphnia taxa.
“Decent Living” Emissions: A Conceptual Framework
Authors: Rao Narasimha D. , Baer Paul
Published: April 2012

There is very little elaboration in literature of the phrase “equitable access to sustainable development” that is referenced in the Cancun Agreement on climate change. We interpret this at a minimum as people’s right to a decent living standard, which gives rise to claims by countries to an exemption from mitigation for the energy and emissions needed to provide a decent life to all. We elaborate a conceptual framework for a comprehensive quantification of such an energy requirement, including the energy required to build out infrastructure to support these living standards. We interpret decent living as the consumption by households of a set of basic goods including adequate nutrition, shelter, health care, education, transport, refrigeration, television and mobile phones. We develop universal indicators for these activities and their infrastructure requirements, and specify a methodology to convert these to energy requirements using energy input-output analysis. Our main recommendations include estimating bottom-up, country-specific energy and emissions requirements, incorporating a minimum for methane emissions, and using international benchmarks at the sector level to encourage the reduction of countries’ energy and emissions intensity.
L'analyse des rêves en thérapie de couple dans les problèmes sexuels
Authors: Scharff David E. , Scharff Jill Savege , Loncan Anne
Published: April 2012

Résumé Les auteurs montrent l’usage des rêves du couple dans les thérapies de couple concernant des problèmes relatifs à l’intimité, la sexualité et la fidélité. La condensation, la symbolisation et l’identification projective sont des mécanismes qui résultent de la conversion de souffrances émotionnelles et relationnelles en symptomatologie sexuelle. Les rêves emploient des processus similaires pour cacher et pour transmettre dans le même temps des problèmes émotionnels, et ainsi l’analyse du rêve avec les couples est particulièrement utile pour explorer et traiter les relations sexuelles dysfonctionnelles. Comme en psychanalyse individuelle et en psychothérapie, les rêves en thérapie de couple expriment le transfert. Les auteurs montrent comment l’analyse du rêve amène le transfert partagé de couple vers sa résolution au cours du processus thérapeutique.
Le négatif dans la transmission familiale
Authors: Gambini Itziar
Published: April 2012

Résumé La famille est un lieu de transmission psychique. Ce qui se transmet est non seulement ce qui peut être raconté d’une génération à l’autre, mais aussi ce qui ne peut pas être dit par manque d’inscription, de représentation psychique. C’est la part négative de la transmission. Ce négatif se transmet enveloppé en quelque sorte dans des contenants qui font partie de la culture familiale et qui permettent de désamorcer leur côté dangereux. Quand un traumatisme intervient, les contenants sont effractés et la famille est en souffrance. L’auteur propose, à travers le cas d’une famille en thérapie, de voir comment les effets du traumatisme se re-présentent dans leur quotidien et pendant les séances, jusqu’à la création d’un « mythe » qui fera fonction de contenant de négatif.
Le « poids » du camping-car. Le corps psychosomatique et l'habitat familial en thérapie familiale psychanalytique
Authors: Jaïtin Rosa , Larivière Yves
Published: April 2012

Résumé Les auteurs abordent à partir d’une thérapie familiale psychanalytique les relations existant entre la pathologie psychosomatique et la représentation de l’espace familial où l’un des noyaux d’agglutination transgérérationnel est représenté par un camping-car. Ils mettent en évidence le rôle joué par les médiateurs (plan de la maison et arbre généalogique) dans le cadre de la thérapie familiale psychanalytique, comme aide à la transformation d’expression des liens transgénérationnels qui s’expriment par la souffrance du corps.
L'esprit de famille ou l'hospitalité généalogique
Authors: Pierron Jean-Philippe
Published: April 2012

Résumé Métamorphoses familiales ? La crise contemporaine des institutions n’épargne pas l’institution familiale. Banalisation du divorce, familles recomposées, procréation médicalement assistée, adoption internationale, homo-éducation sont autant d’éléments qui brouillent la carte d’un territoire familial que l’on croyait définitivement exploré. Pourtant sous les bouleversements socio-historiques ne demeure-t-il pas quelque chose qui soit le signe universel du familial ? L’auteur soutient ici l’idée, principalement contre le réductionnisme bio-génétique, que l’invariant du familial – quelles que soient les compositions et recompositions des familles – est d’ordre généalogique. L’hospitalité familiale est d’abord et avant tout une hospitalité généalogique.
Dialogue d'un certain genre avec René Kaës à propos du lien
Authors: Puget Janine
Published: April 2012

Résumé L’auteur propose de penser séparément la relation d’objet et le lien en tant qu’entités psychanalytiques qui ont chacune une logique, des mécanismes défensifs et constitutifs, des principes régulateurs, des concepts qui leur sont propres. Elle marque la différence entre une histoire qui détermine le présent et l’histoire de ce présent. Elle évoque rapidement aussi quelques conséquences pratiques et cliniques que ces données peuvent promouvoir.
Pour inscrire la question du lien dans la psychanalyse
Authors: Kaës René
Published: April 2012

Résumé L’auteur propose un cadre théorique général pour constituer le lien comme un concept pertinent dans le champ de la psychanalyse. L’enjeu de la question du lien porte sur les limites et les frontières qui unissent et séparent les espaces intrapsychiques et les espaces interpsychiques et transpsychiques. Il porte aussi sur les limites et les frontières du champ de la psychanalyse. Différenciant le lien de la relation d’objet, il propose trois définitions du lien : la réalité psychique inconsciente spécifique construite par la rencontre de deux ou plusieurs sujets; le mouvement plus ou moins stable des investissements, des représentations et des actions qui associent deux ou plusieurs sujets pour certaines réalisations psychiques; la logique qui organise le « pas l’un sans l’autre ». Il analyse ensuite les principaux facteurs de liaison du lien : les espaces psychiques communs, partagés et différents, les investissements pulsionnels, les structures fantasmatiques, les systèmes représentationnels, les processus d’identification et les Idéaux communs, les alliances inconscientes.
La psychanalyse familiale avec jeu psychodramatique
Authors: Wainrib Steven
Published: April 2012

Résumé L’intérêt de l’introduction d’une certaine dose de psychodrame psychanalytique en thérapie familiale est d’abord brièvement évoqué sur un plan théorique. L’auteur rend compte des changements apportés à cette technique, en fonction de son expérience clinique de ces dernières années. Deux mouvements de séance liés au jeu psychodramatique permettront de montrer comment peut s’opérer dans ce cadre une transformation de la répétition agie en jeu analytique puis en liens porteurs de sens. Les relations entre le travail des psychanalystes et le processus de changement dans la famille sont précisées. Technique mixte, la psychanalyse familiale avec jeu psychodramatique apparaît actuellement comme une pratique originale, susceptible de relancer des processus de subjectivation dans des groupes familiaux en mal de trouver les voies d’une reconnaissance mutuelle de leurs membres.
De la figuration du lien familial à l'histoire
Authors: André-Fustier Francine , Aubertel Françoise
Published: April 2012

Résumé L’écoute de la chaîne associative familiale suppose de porter une attention particulière aux aspects non-verbaux de la communication familiale. Les auteurs repéreront ces aspects à partir de ce qu’ils appellent des configurations scéniques spatiales, répétitives de séance en séance, qui donnent à voir, entendre, sentir, éprouver plus qu’à comprendre. Ces formes de déploiement agi dans le cadre spatial de la séance constituent une figuration transférentielle du lien familial. Ces modes de figuration offrent aux thérapeutes une voie d’accès à des matériaux psychiques non symbolisés dans l’histoire familiale mais actifs dans leurs effets psychiques sur les membres de la famille (et sur les thérapeutes en séance).