bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development and evaluation of a questionnaire for assessment of health-related quality of life in cats with cardiac disease
Authors: Freeman Lisa M. , Rush John E. , Oyama Mark A. , MacDonald Kristin A. , Cunningham Suzanne M. , Bulmer Barret , MacGregor John M. , Laste Nancy J. , Malakoff Rebecca L. , Hall Daniel J. , Trafny Dennis J.
Published: May 2012

Objective—To develop, validate, and evaluate a questionnaire (Cats’ Assessment Tool for Cardiac Health [CATCH] questionnaire) for assessing health-related quality of life in cats with cardiac disease.

Design—Prospective study.

Animals—275 cats with cardiac disease.

Procedures—The questionnaire was developed on the basis of clinical signs of cardiac disease in cats. A CATCH score was calculated by summing responses to questionnaire items; possible scores ranged from 0 to 80. For questionnaire validation, owners of 75 cats were asked to complete the questionnaire (10 owners completed the questionnaire twice). Disease severity was assessed with the International Small Animal Cardiac Health Council (ISACHC) classification for cardiac disease. Following validation, the final questionnaire was administered to owners of the remaining 200 cats.

Results—Internal consistency of the questionnaire was good, and the CATCH score was significantly correlated with ISACHC classification. For owners that completed the questionnaire twice, scores were significantly correlated. During the second phase of the study, the CATCH score ranged from 0 to 74 (median, 7) and was significantly correlated with ISACHC classification.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggested that the CATCH questionnaire is a valid and reliable method for assessing health-related quality of life in cats with cardiac disease. Further research is warranted to test the tool's sensitivity to changes in medical treatment and its potential role as a clinical and research tool.
Effects of xylazine hydrochloride on hormonal, metabolic, and cardiorespiratory stress responses to lateral recumbency and claw trimming in dairy cows
Authors: Rizk Awad , Herdtweck Sarah , Meyer Henning , Offinger Jennifer , Zaghloul Adel , Rehage Juergen
Published: May 2012

Objective—To investigate the hormonal, metabolic, and cardiorespiratory effects of xylazine hydrochloride on dairy cows undergoing lateral recumbency and claw trimming.

Design—Prospective crossover study.

Animals—6 healthy Holstein-Friesian cows.

Procedures—Cows were treated with xylazine (0.05 mg/kg [0.023 mg/lb], IM) or an equal volume of saline (0.9% NaCl) solution 15 minutes before being placed in lateral recumbency for claw trimming. As a third treatment, cows also received xylazine (0.05 mg/kg, IM) but underwent no further manipulation. At preset time intervals, heart rate (HR), respiratory rate (RR), systolic arterial blood pressure, diastolic arterial blood pressure, mean arterial blood pressure (MAP), blood gas values, and plasma concentrations of cortisol, insulin, glucose, lactate, and nonesterified fatty acids (NEFA) were measured, and signs of sedation and ruminal bloat were recorded.

Results—Saline solution treatment resulted in a temporary significant increase in SAP, diastolic arterial blood pressure, MAP, RR, and cortisol, lactate, and NEFA concentrations and a significant decrease in arterial oxygen saturation (Sao2). Xylazine treatment induced significant decreases in HR, RR, MAP, insulin and NEFA concentrations, and Sao2 and induced significant increases in glucose concentration. Compared with saline solution treatment, HR, RR, MAP, Sao2, and cortisol, lactate, and NEFA concentrations were significantly decreased with xylazine treatment. Xylazine treatment resulted in mild signs of sedation as well as clinically negligible ruminal bloat.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Xylazine administered in a low dose to cows preceding lateral recumbency for claw trimming decreased hormonal and metabolic stress responses, but augmented the respiratory depressive effect of lateral recumbency reflected by a decreased Pao and increased Paco2.
Mucosal immune response in newborn Holstein calves that had maternally derived antibodies and were vaccinated with an intranasal multivalent modified-live virus vaccine
Authors: Hill Kevin L. , Hunsaker Breck D. , Townsend Hugh G. , van Drunen Littel-van den Hurk Sylvia , Griebel Philip J.
Published: May 2012

Objective—To determine whether maternally derived antibodies interfere with the mucosal immune response following intranasal (IN) vaccination of newborn calves with a multivalent modified-live virus vaccine.

Design—Randomized controlled clinical trial.

Animals—23 newborn Holstein bull calves.

Procedures—Calves received colostrum and were assigned to group A (unvaccinated control calves), group B (IN vaccination on day 0), or group C (IN vaccination on days 0 and 35). Serum and nasal secretion sample (NSS) titers of antibodies specific for bovine herpesvirus 1, bovine viral diarrhea virus 1, and bovine viral diarrhea virus 2; WBC counts; and NSS interferon concentrations were determined up to day 77.

Results—Calves had high serum titers of maternally derived antibodies specific for vaccine virus antigens on day 0. High IgA and low IgG titers were detected in NSSs on day 0; NSS titers of IgA decreased by day 5. Group B and C NSS IgA titers were significantly higher than those of group A on days 10 through 35; group C IgA titers increased after the second vaccination. Serum antibody titers decreased at a similar rate among groups of calves. Interferons were not detected in NSSs, and calves did not develop leukopenia.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—IN vaccination of newborn calves with high concentrations of virus-neutralizing antibodies increased NSS IgA titers but did not change serum antibody titers. Revaccination of group C calves on day 35 induced IgA production. Intranasal vaccination with a modified-live virus vaccine was effective in calves that had maternally derived antibodies.
Application of the Technology Acceptance Model to OCR-based CAPTCHA systems. Preliminary results
Authors: Łupkowski Paweł , Kleka Paweł
Published: May 2012

This research investigates the applicability of F. Davis' Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) to OCR-based CAPTCHAs involved in a free e-mail accounts registration process. The results provide preliminary evidence that the model may be a useful tool for research focused on acceptance of CAPTCHAs. The results are especially interesting when it comes to the concept of perceived usefulness and its direct relationship to the concept of attitude toward use. This relation indicates a new area of research for CAPTCHA developers interested in improving usability and accessibility of these systems.
Techniques of Nominal Data Analyses
Authors: Stanisz Andrzej , Broniatowska Elżbieta
Published: May 2012

Several advanced techniques for statistical analysis of nominal data were discussed to show how interesting associations between examined variables can be obtained using correspondence analysis, logistic regression and log-linear models. All these techniques are introduced on the example of medical data connected with the patients being on the curative diet. The studied data concerns four nominal variables: breaking the diet, overcoming diseases requiring the curative diet, sex and age of patient. Applied analyses were used for searching which of factors mentioned above influence on breaking the diet. The most popular technique in this case, chi-squared test of independence, indicates that only the age and illnesses overcoming before are related with breaking the diet whereas the sex is factor which does not have any relationship with the diet breaking. However, the deeper analysis revealed that we can not omit this variable in our research. Application of more compound statistical methods show the importance of age and sex in breaking the curative diet in detail. Presented methodology can be successfully applied not only in medicine but to data coming from different branches of science as well.
Hawk Eye: A Logical Innovative Technology Use in Sports for Effective Decision Making
Authors: Bal Baljinder , Dureja Gaurav
Published: May 2012

Hawk Eye: A Logical Innovative Technology Use in Sports for Effective Decision Making

The present study aims at explaining hawk eye technology in sports with regard to their latest trends in the sporting arena. This is one of the most commonly used technologies in the various sports. It has been put to a variety of uses, such as providing a way to collect interesting statistics, construct very suggestive visual representations of the game play and even helping viewers to better understand the umpiring decisions. The Hawk-eye is one such technology which is considered to be really top indentation in various sports. The necessary idea is to monitor the trajectory of the ball during the entire duration of play. We will see how the Hawk-eye technology successfully treats each of these issues and provides a robust system to be used in practice. The Hawk-eye system was developed as a replay system, originally for TV Broadcast coverage. We have thus seen that the Hawk-eye is a great innovation, which puts technology to good use in the field of sports. The international scenario of hawk eye has been discussed while analyzing the data of hawk eye software for reliable decision. The technology is used widely these days, in sports such as Tennis and Cricket. The accuracy which can be achieved with the use of the system is making the authorities think seriously about reducing the human error component involved in important decisions. Hawk eye (artificial judgement) is very excellent and superb decision making power as compared to human being (natural judgement). Hawk-Eye software team is already working on the implementing system for basketball, football, badminton and snooker.
Book review
Authors: Dravecký Miroslav
Published: May 2012

Book review
Bibliography on birds of prey and owls in Slovakia. Part 3. Order Falconiformes, genus Falco
Authors: Uhrin Marcel , Danko Štefan , Latková Hana
Published: May 2012

Bibliography on birds of prey and owls in Slovakia. Part 3. Order Falconiformes, genusFalco

The aim of the bibliography is to provide a list of publications on raptors and owls of Slovakia. The first two parts focused on genera from order Accipitrifromes is followed now by the third part focused on genusFalco(order Falconiformes). In total 252 citations are listed - 116 (46.0%) scientific and research articles, 96 (38.1%) popular articles, 11 (4.4%) qualification papers, 21 (8.3%) conference abstracts and 8 (3.2%) reports or other papers. The register of species, objective index and the author register enable better overview.
Public Online Charter School Students
Authors: Kim Paul , Kim Flora Hisook , Karimi Arafeh
Published: May 2012

There has been a steady growth of the K-12 student population taking courses online. This study examined reasons for students to choose a public online charter school program and their perceptions of online discussion. A survey was sent to 1,500 students newly enrolled in a statewide public online charter school program. From those who responded, 44% indicated that the online discussion component is not helpful in achieving their academic goals. Also, further analysis suggested that those who drop out of traditional schools probably would not stay even in an online program unless the program adequately supported the students. In this report, interrelationships among perceptual measures along with traits and preferences of online students are discussed and suggestions are made for educators.
Student Voice in Elementary School Reform
Authors: Mitra Dana L. , Serriere Stephanie C.
Published: May 2012

The present research examines the developmental outcomes of elementary-aged students engaged in student voice efforts. Using a case study of fifth-grade girls, the authors compare their experiences to research examining secondary school. The authors find marked similarities in the growth of agency, belonging, competence—the ABCs of youth development. The authors also notice two additional dimensions—the need to engage in discourse that allows an exchange of diverse ideas while working toward a common goal. The authors also observed the emergence of civic efficacy, or a belief that one can make a difference in their social worlds. The authors also examine the contexts and conditions that support positive youth development in this case—scaffolding youth learning, establishing inquiry as the framework for teaching and learning, and establishing a clear vision of the school as a place that fosters student voice.
Contrasting OLS and Quantile Regression Approaches to Student “Growth” Percentiles
Authors: Castellano Katherine Elizabeth , Ho Andrew Dean
Published: May 2012

Regression methods can locate student test scores in a conditional distribution, given past scores. This article contrasts and clarifies two approaches to describing these locations in terms of readily interpretable percentile ranks or “conditional status percentile ranks.” The first is Betebenner’s quantile regression approach that results in “Student Growth Percentiles.” The second is an ordinary least squares (OLS) regression approach that involves expressing OLS regression residuals as percentile ranks. The study describes the empirical and conceptual similarity of the two metrics in simulated and real-data scenarios. The metrics contrast in their scale-transformation invariance and sample size requirements but are comparable in their dependence on the number of prior years used as conditioning variables. These results support guidelines for selecting the model that best fits the data and have implications for the interpretations of these percentiles ranks as “growth” measures.
Repair of pars interarticularis defect utilizing a pedicle and laminar screw construct: a new technique based on anatomical and biomechanical analysis
Authors: Patel Rakesh D. , Rosas Humberto G. , Steinmetz Michael P. , Anderson Paul A.
Published: May 2012

Object

The theoretical advantage of pars interarticularis repair over spinal fusion to correct pars defects is that the treatment is a direct osteosynthesis that preserves motion at the involved functional spinal unit. Several techniques and constructs have been used to achieve greater rigidity, but these techniques may risk entry into the spinal canal, and adverse events are common. A pedicle and laminar screw construct placed entirely outside the spinal canal may offer greater stiffness and achieve higher pars defect healing rates. The purpose of this study was to biomechanically assess an intralaminar screw construct in cadaveric lumbar spines in comparison with other types of constructs typically used in pars repair and to quantify the sizes of screws that can be placed safely in both normal and spondylolytic vertebrae.

Methods

The L-4 and L-5 laminae in patients with spondylolysis and in controls who underwent CT (n = 41, each group) were measured by analysis of conventional axial CT images and multiplanar reformations constructed on a Vitrea workstation to determine the feasibility of translaminar fixation with a 4.5-mm-diameter screw. Biomechanical tests for torsion and flexion-extension were performed on 8 fresh human cadaveric lumbar spines before and after modeling for bilateral spondylolytic defects. Three pars repair techniques were tested at each level and in the following sequence: pedicle screw–cable, pedicle screw–rod–hook, and pedicle screw–intralaminar screw.

Results

The majority of laminae can accept 4.5 × 25-mm screws. The cable construct allowed the greatest motion and least stability across the defect in all biomechanical tests. The hook and laminar screw constructs performed similarly in all tests and exhibited no significant difference in stiffness.

Conclusions

A surgically placed intralaminar screw construct may be a safe and effective alternative to current pars repair methods.
Intracerebral schwannoma presenting as classic temporal lobe epilepsy
Authors: Guha Daipayan , Kiehl Tim-Rasmus , Krings Timo , Valiante Taufik A.
Published: May 2012

Schwannomas of the brain parenchyma are extremely rare, occurring mostly in children and young adults. Fewer than 50 cases have been reported in the English-language literature. Isolated temporal lobe epilepsy is a rare presentation of intracerebral schwannomas, with only 2 reported cases. The authors present the case of a 51-year-old woman with a 4-year history of medication-refractory seizures, which were localized on electroencephalography to the right temporal lobe. Magnetic resonance imaging identified a mildly space-occupying, T2 hyperintense, and inhomogeneously enhancing mass in her left mesial temporal lobe. Histological, immunohistochemical, and electron microscopy examinations of the surgical specimen established a diagnosis of intracerebral schwannoma. Accurate diagnosis of intracerebral schwannomas is essential, particularly in younger patients, given the lesions' nature, amenity to resection, favorable long-term prognosis, and broad radiological differential. The etiology of these lesions remains unknown, and multiple proposed theories are reviewed.
Significance of Simpson grading system in modern meningioma surgery: integration of the grade with MIB-1 labeling index as a key to predict the recurrence of WHO Grade I meningiomas
Authors: Oya Soichi , Kawai Kensuke , Nakatomi Hirofumi , Saito Nobuhito
Published: May 2012

Object

Techniques for the surgical treatment of meningioma have undergone many improvements since Simpson established the neurosurgical dogma for meningioma surgery in his seminal paper published in 1957. This study aims to assess the clinical significance and limitations of the Simpson grading system in relation to modern surgery for WHO Grade I benign meningiomas and to explore the potential of the cell proliferation index to complement the limitations in predicting their recurrence.

Methods

The surgical records of patients who underwent resection of intracranial meningiomas at the University of Tokyo Hospital between January 1995 and August 2010 were retrospectively analyzed. The authors investigated the relationships between recurrence-free survival (RFS) and Simpson grade or MIB-1 labeling index value.

Results

A total of 240 patients harboring 248 benign meningiomas were included in this study. Simpson Grade IV resection was associated with a significantly shorter RFS than Simpson Grade I, II, or III resection (p < 0.001), while no statistically significant difference was noted in RFS between Simpson Grades I, II, and III. Among meningiomas treated by Simpson Grade II and III resections, however, multivariate analysis revealed that an MIB-1 index of 3% or higher was associated with a significantly shorter time to recurrence.

Conclusions

The clinical significance of the different management strategies related to Simpson Grade I–III resection may have been diluted in the modern surgical era. The MIB-1 index can differentiate tumors with a high risk of recurrence, which could be beneficial for planning tailored optimal follow-up strategies. The results of this study appear to provide a significant backing for the recent shift in meningioma surgery from attempting aggressive resection to valuing the quality of the patient's life.
Failure strength of lumbar spinous processes loaded in a tension band model
Authors: Golish S. Raymond , Fielding Louie , Agarwal Vijay , Buckley Jenni , Alamin Todd F.
Published: May 2012

Object

There has been increasing interest in spinous process tension band devices, as distinct from spinous process spacers and plates. The purpose of this study was to load spinous processes caudally at L-4 and cranially at L-5 parallel to the long axis of the spine in a biomechanical model of tension band loading. The goal was to provide normative data for the design of a spinous process tension band device after varying degrees of surgical decompression and across varying bone mineral densities (BMDs).

Methods

Fresh-frozen L4–5 lumbar vertebrae pairs were divided into 3 surgical groups: intact, midline-sparing decompression (laminotomy and medial facetectomy), and midline decompression with foraminotomy (one-half of spinous process resected, laminotomy, and medial facetectomy). After decompression, specimens were disarticulated into isolated L-4 and L-5 vertebrae. Each vertebra was loaded to failure in a caudal (L-4) or cranial (L-5) direction parallel to the long axis of the spine via a 6-mm-wide strap looped around the spinous process. Failure strength and mode were recorded.

Results

Seventeen L-4 and L-5 lumbar vertebrae were tested from 17 cadavers. There were 10 male (59%) and 7 female (41%) cadavers, with a mean age of 66.6 ± 16.5 years (range 41–100 years) and a mean BMD of 1 ± 0.23 g/cm2 (range 0.66–1.34 g/cm2); the mean is expressed ± SD throughout. For data analysis, specimens were grouped into those with no or midline-sparing decompression (Group 1: 11 of 17) and those with midline decompression (Group 2: 6 of 17). At L-4, the mean failure strength for Group 1 was 453 ± 162 N, and for Group 2 it was 264 ± 99 N (p = 0.02; Cohen's d = 1.4). At L-5, the mean failure strength for Group 1 was 517 ± 190 N, and for Group 2 it was 269 ± 184 N (p = 0.02; Cohen's d = 1.3). There was no significant difference in failure strength between the intact and midline-sparing decompression groups at L-4 (p = 0.91) or L-5 (p = 0.41).

Conclusions

Across specimens with a wide range of BMDs, midline-sparing decompression was not found to decrease the mean failure strength of the L-4 and L-5 spinous processes (453 and 517 N, respectively), whereas midline surgical decompression decreased the failure strength of these processes (264 and 269 N, respectively) in a biomechanical model of tension band loading relevant to the design of a tension band device.
Utility of VasoCT in the treatment of intracranial aneurysm with flow-diverter stents
Authors: Kizilkilic Osman , Kocer Naci , Metaxas George Emmanuel , Babic Drazenko , Homan Robert , Islak Civan
Published: May 2012

Object

The small size and tortuous anatomy of intracranial arteries require that flow-diverter stents in the intracranial vasculature have a low profile, high flexibility, and excellent trackability. However, these features limit the degree of radiopacity that can be incorporated into the stents. Visualization of these stents and the degree of stent deployment using conventional radiographic techniques is suboptimal. To overcome this drawback, the authors used a new combined angiography/CT suite that uses flat-panel detector technology for higher resolution angiography.

Methods

The authors present their preliminary experience in the imaging of flow-diverter stents in 31 patients in whom VasoCT was used with a new flat-panel detector angiographic system.

Results

Intraarterial VasoCT was performed after flow-diverter stent deployment in all cases. In 4 of these cases, balloon angioplasty or telescopic stent deployment–related decisions were made after checking VasoCT images.

At 3- and 6-month follow-up in 27 patients, digital subtraction angiography was performed in 12 patients and intravenous VasoCT in 11 patients. Twenty-three of 31 patients had their aneurysm occluded during short-term follow-up, and 4 of the 31 patients still had minimal residual filling of the aneurysms. None of the 27 patients had stenosis of the parent artery.

Conclusions

The authors found that VasoCT provides clear visualization of flow-diverter stents. The images obtained both intraarterially and intravenously are very promising. The initial results provide a high confidence and reproducibility rate for further utilization of this new technique.
Flow diverters failing to occlude experimental bifurcation or curved sidewall aneurysms: an in vivo study in canines
Authors: Darsaut Tim E. , Bing Fabrice , Salazkin Igor , Gevry Guylaine , Raymond Jean
Published: May 2012

Object

Flow diverters (FDs) are increasingly used to treat complex intracranial aneurysms, but preclinical studies that could guide clinical applications are lacking. The authors designed a modular aneurysm model in canines to address this problem.

Methods

Three variants of one modular aneurysm model were constructed in 21 animals. Sidewall (n = 5), curved sidewall (n = 5), and end-wall bifurcation (n = 7) aneurysms were treated with prototype 36-wire FDs. Four more end-wall bifurcation aneurysms were treated with prototype 48-wire lower-porosity FDs. Angiographic results postimplantation and at 3 months were scored with an ordinal scale. Animals were euthanized at 3 (n = 17) or 6 (n = 3) months, and the FD covering the aneurysm ostium was photographed to analyze metallic porosity and amount of neointima formation.

Results

Straight sidewall aneurysms were better occluded than curved sidewall and end-wall bifurcation aneurysms at the 3-month angiography follow-up (p = 0.010). Flow diverters failed to occlude curved sidewall aneurysms (n = 0/5) and all but one (n = 1/7) end-wall bifurcation aneurysm. Angiographic results were no better (n = 0/4) using a 48-wire FD (p = 0.788). Branches jailed by the FD (n = 16) remained patent in all cases. Metallic porosity was decreased (p = 0.014) and neointimal closure of the aneurysm ostium was more complete (p = 0.040) in sidewall aneurysms than in curved or bifurcation variants of the model.

Conclusions

Flow diverters may succeed in treating straight sidewall aneurysms, but the same device repeatedly fails to occlude curved sidewall and end-wall bifurcation aneurysms. In vivo studies can be designed to test basic principles that, once validated, may serve to guide clinical use of new devices.
Cystic dilation of the ventriculus terminalis
Authors: Ganau Mario , Talacchi Andrea , Cecchi Paolo C. , Ghimenton Claudio , Gerosa Massimo , Faccioli Franco
Published: May 2012

Object

The ventriculus terminalis, an embryological remnant consisting of the ependymal-lined space of the conus medullaris, can occasionally become symptomatic after cystic dilation. In the existing literature, consisting of 32 cases, the preferred type of management (conservative vs surgical) is still debated. The object of this study was to report the surgical results in a consecutive series of 10 adult patients with cystic dilation of the ventriculus terminalis (CDVT), to match them with data retrieved from the relevant literature, and specifically to validate a new recent clinical classification.

Methods

The authors reported 13 new cases of CDVT treated in the Department of Neurosurgery at University Hospital in Verona, Italy. Treatment modalities and clinical and radiological outcomes, both early and at follow-up, were analyzed and compared with a preoperative classification of clinical presentation, as established by de Moura Batista and colleagues (2008).

Results

Surgical treatment seemed to guarantee the resolution of CDVT. Dorsolumbar laminotomy, myelotomy, and cystic drainage were performed in 10 patients. Patients with Type I symptoms (nonspecific complaints) often presented with comorbidities (herniated disc or facet hypertrophy) confusing their clinical status. The surgical treatment of patients with Type I symptoms promoted good results only if the diagnosis of CDVT was definitive and symptoms had rapidly evolved. In patients with Type II (focal neurological deficits) and III (sphincter disturbances) symptoms, surgical treatment sustained improvement even at the late follow-up.

Conclusions

While confirming the usefulness of de Moura Batista and colleagues' classification in its impact on prognosis, the authors propose a revision of the classification with subgroups Type Ia (nonspecific symptoms without clear relation to CDVT), which is best treated conservatively, and Type Ib (rapid onset and invalidating unspecific complaints without comorbidities), which may benefit from surgical evacuation.
From student hard drive to web corpus (part 2): the annotation and online distribution of the Michigan Corpus of Upper-level Student Papers (MICUSP)
Authors: O'Donnell Matthew Brook , Römer Ute
Published: May 2012

This paper continues the detailed account of the central steps involved in compiling and distributing the Michigan Corpus of Upper-level Student Papers (MICUSP). In this paper, we discuss the annotation process used to encode MICUSP files in TEI-compliant XML, and the development of MICUSP Simple, the online application through which the corpus is now freely available online. We also describe how MICUSP Simple can be used to carry out simple word/phrase searches and to browse papers within different categories.
Love is all around: a corpus-based study of pop lyrics
Authors: Werner Valentin
Published: May 2012

Although they are an integral part of everyday life, song lyrics are not included in any of the standard corpora of English (e.g., BNC, ICE, CIC, Brown family) that are currently available. In this paper, I report on an analysis of lyrics based on a chart corpus containing British and American pop songs. The purpose of this study is to test various stylistic, diatopic and historical factors, with the help of both qualitative and quantitative methods. Findings from earlier research are tested against further corpus evidence, while I provide a broader statistical basis and more illustrative examples than in previous studies. I also address more theoretical issues, such as the principles behind the production of lyrics and the question of whether pop song lyrics can be categorised in terms of ‘spoken’ versus ‘written’ or ‘formal’ versus ‘informal’. I argue that pop lyrics constitute a rather special register. Finally, I outline areas of further study.
Using corpora in depth psychology: a trigram-based analysis of a corpus of fetish fantasies
Authors: Wilson Andrew
Published: May 2012

Contemporary depth psychology is under constant pressure to demonstrate and strengthen its evidence base. In this paper, I show how the analysis of large corpora can contribute to this goal of developing and testing depth-psychological theory. To provide a basis for evaluating statements about foot and shoe fetishism, I analyse the thirty-six most frequent three-word phrases (or trigrams) in a corpus of about 1.6 million words of amateur fetish stories written in the German language. Zipfian methods from quantitative linguistics are used to specify the number of phrases for analysis and I argue that these reflect the core themes of the corpus. The analysis reveals three main dimensions. First, it corroborates the observations of the early sexologists that foot and shoe fetishism is very closely intertwined with sadomasochism. Secondly, it shows that genitalia-related phrases are also common, but an examination of their contexts questions Freud's theory that fetishism results from an assumption of female castration. Thirdly, it reveals that the mouth also plays a key role; however, the frequent co-presence of genitalia references in the same texts does not seem to support straightforwardly the most common alternative theory of fetishism based on object relations. Future research could valuably extend this approach to other fetishes and, in due course, to other depth-psychological constructs.
Corpora and coursebooks: destined to be strangers forever?
Authors: Burton Graham
Published: May 2012

Corpus linguistics has had a powerful influence on ELT teaching materials, such as dictionaries, and, more recently, reference grammars. However, its influence on ELT coursebooks has been less profound. In this paper, I review the case for the use of corpora in coursebook production, I discuss the use of corpora from a publishing perspective, and I present the results of a questionnaire study of current coursebook authors on their opinions on, and experiences of, the use of corpora. The results of the survey suggest that while some coursebook authors already do make use of corpora in their writing, many do not; this is due, primarily, to perceptions of a lack of available corpora and lack of time in writing schedules.
Design of A Sustainable Building: A Conceptual Framework for Implementing Sustainability in the Building Sector
Authors: Akadiri Peter O. , Chinyio Ezekiel A. , Olomolaiye Paul O.
Published: May 2012

This paper presents a conceptual framework aimed at implementing sustainability principles in the building industry. The proposed framework based on the sustainable triple bottom line principle, includes resource conservation, cost efficiency and design for human adaptation. Following a thorough literature review, each principle involving strategies and methods to be applied during the life cycle of building projects is explained and a few case studies are presented for clarity on the methods. The framework will allow design teams to have an appropriate balance between economic, social and environmental issues, changing the way construction practitioners think about the information they use when assessing building projects, thereby facilitating the sustainability of building industry.
Malignant Transformation of Rat Kidney Induced by Environmental Substances and Estrogen
Authors: Alfaro-Lira Susana , Pizarro-Ortiz María , Calaf Gloria M.
Published: May 2012

The use of organophosphorous insecticides in agricultural environments and in urban settings has increased significantly. The aim of the present study was to analyze morphological alterations induced by malathion and 17β-estradiol (estrogen) in rat kidney tissues. There were four groups of animals: control, malathion, estrogen and combination of both substances. The animals were injected for five days and sacrificed 30, 124 and 240 days after treatments. Kidney tissues were analyzed for histomorphological and immunocytochemical alterations. Morphometric analysis indicated that malathion plus estrogen-treated animals showed a significantly (p < 0.05) higher grade of glomerular hypertrophy, signs of tubular damage, atypical proliferation in cortical and hilium zone than malathion or estrogen alone-treated and control animals after 240 days. Results indicated that MFG, ER-α, ER-β, PgR, CYP1A1, Neu/ErbB2, PCNA, vimentin and Thrombospondin 1 (THB) protein expression was increased in convoluted tubules of animals treated with combination of malathion and estrogen after 240 days of 5 day treatment. Malignant proliferation was observed in the hilium zone. In summary, the combination of malathion and estrogen induced pathological lesions in glomeruli, convoluted tubules, atypical cell proliferation and malignant proliferation in hilium zone and immunocytochemical alterations in comparison to control animals or animals treated with either substance alone. It can be concluded that an increased risk of kidney malignant transformation can be induced by exposure to environmental and endogenous substances.
An Overall Water Quality Index (WQI) for a Man-Made Aquatic Reservoir in Mexico
Authors: Rubio-Arias Hector , Contreras-Caraveo Manuel , Quintana Rey Manuel , Saucedo-Teran Ruben Alfonso , Pinales-Munguia Adan
Published: May 2012

A Water Quality Index (WQI) is a useful statistical tool for simplifying, reporting and interpreting complex information obtained from any body of water. A simple number given by any WQI model explains the level of water contamination. The objective was to develop a WQI for the water of the Luis L. Leon dam located in the state of Chihuahua, Mexico. Monthly water samples were obtained in 2009; January 10, February 12, March 8, May 20, June 10, July 9, August 12, September 10, October 11, November 15 and December 13. Ten sampling sites were randomly selected after dividing the study area using a geographic package. In each site, two samples at the top depth of 0.20 m and 1.0 m were obtained to quantify physical-chemical parameters. The following 11 parameters were considered to calculate the WQI; pH, Electrical Conductivity (EC), Dissolved Oxygen (DO), color, turbidity, ammonia nitrogen, fluorides, chlorides, sulfates, Total Solids (TS) and phosphorous (P). The data analysis involved two steps; a single analysis for each parameter and the WQI calculation. The resulted WQI value classified the water quality according to the following ranges: 2.8 excellent water. The results showed that the WQI values changed from low levels (WQI < 2.3) in some points during autumn time to high levels (WQI > 2.8) most of the year and the variation was due to time of sampling generally rainy season.
In Vitro Phytotoxicity and Antioxidant Activity of Selected Flavonoids
Authors: De Martino Laura , Mencherini Teresa , Mancini Emilia , Aquino Rita Patrizia , De Almeida Luiz Fernando Rolim , De Feo Vincenzo
Published: May 2012

The knowledge of flavonoids involved in plant-plant interactions and their mechanisms of action are poor and, moreover, the structural characteristics required for these biological activities are scarcely known. The objective of this work was to study the possible in vitro phytotoxic effects of 27 flavonoids on the germination and early radical growth of Raphanus sativus L. and Lepidium sativum L., with the aim to evaluate the possible structure/activity relationship. Moreover, the antioxidant activity of the same compounds was also evaluated. Generally, in response to various tested flavonoids, germination was only slightly affected, whereas significant differences were observed in the activity of the various tested flavonoids against radical elongation. DPPH test confirms the antioxidant activity of luteolin, quercetin, catechol, morin, and catechin. The biological activity recorded is discussed in relation to the structure of compounds and their capability to interact with cell structures and physiology. No correlation was found between phytotoxic and antioxidant activities.
Antibody Phage Display Libraries: Contributions to Oncology
Authors: Dantas-Barbosa Carmela , De Macedo Brigido Marcelo , Maranhao Andrea Queiroz
Published: May 2012

Since the advent of phage display technology, dating back to 1985, antibody libraries displayed on filamentous phage surfaces have been used to identify specific binders for many different purposes, including the recognition of tumors. Phage display represents a high-throughput technique for screening billions of random fusion antibodies against virtually any target on the surface or inside cancer cells, or even soluble markers found in patient serum. Many phage display derived binders targeting important tumor markers have been identified. Selection directed to tumoral cells’ surfaces lead to the identification of unknown tumoral markers. Also the improvement of methods that require smaller amounts of cells has opened the possibility to use this approach on patient samples. Robust techniques combining an antibody library displayed on the phage surface and protein microarray allowed the identification of auto antibodies recognized by patient sera. Many Ab molecules directly or indirectly targeting angiogenesis have been identified, and one of them, ramucirumab, has been tested in 27 phase I–III clinical trials in a broad array of cancers. Examples of such antibodies will be discussed here with emphasis on those used as probes for molecular imaging and other clinical trials.
Lipid Oxidation Inhibitory Effects and Phenolic Composition of Aqueous Extracts from Medicinal Plants of Colombian Amazonia
Authors: Lizcano Leandro J. , Viloria-Bernal María , Vicente Francisca , Berrueta Luis Angel , Gallo Blanca , Martínez-Cañamero Magdalena , Ruiz-Larrea Maria Begoña , Ruiz-Sanz José Ignacio
Published: May 2012

Diverse plants of ethnobotanic interest in Amazonia are commonly used in traditional medicine. We determined the antioxidant potential against lipid peroxidation, the antimicrobial activity, and the polyphenol composition of several Amazonian plants (Brownea rosademonte, Piper glandulosissimum, Piper krukoffii, Piper putumayoense, Solanum grandiflorum, and Vismia baccifera). Extracts from the plant leaf, bark, and stem were prepared as aqueous infusions, as used in folk medicine, and added to rat liver microsomes exposed to iron. The polyphenolic composition was detected by reverse-phase HPLC coupled to diode-array detector and MS/MS analysis. The antimicrobial activity was tested by the spot-on-a-lawn method against several indicator microorganisms. All the extracts inhibited lipid oxidation, except the P. glandulosissimum stem. The plant extracts exhibiting high antioxidant potential (V. baccifera and B. rosademonte) contained high levels of flavanols (particularly, catechin and epicatechin). By contrast, S. grandiflorum leaf, which exhibited very low antioxidant activity, was rich in hydroxycinnamic acids. None of the extracts showed antimicrobial activity. This study demonstrates for the first time the presence of bioactive polyphenolic compounds in several Amazonian plants, and highlights the importance of flavanols as major phenolic contributors to antioxidant activity.
Diterpenoid Alkaloids from the Chinese Traditional Herbal “Fuzi” and Their Cytotoxic Activity
Authors: Gao Feng , Li Yuan-Yuan , Wang Dan , Huang Xing , Liu Qian
Published: May 2012

Ten diterpenoid alkaloids, including eight aconitine-type C19-diterpenoid alkaloids and two hetisine-type C20-diterpenoid alkaloids, were isolated from the secondary roots of Aconitum carmichaeli Debx., known as “Fuzi” in Chinese traditional herbal medicine. Their structures were established on the basis of their spectroscopic data and comparison with those of the literature. Among these alkaloids, chasmanine, oxonitine and 15-acetylsongoramine were isolated for the first time from this medicinal plant. The cytotoxic activity of the alkaloids were tested against several cell lines by the MTT method in which aconitine, hypaconitine, mesaconitne and oxonitine were found to strongly inhibit the growth of the HePG2 cell line, which showed that the existence and quantity of the ester groups have a significant influence on the cytotoxicity of the diterpenoid alkaloids.
Impact of Elevated Carbon Dioxide on Primary, Secondary Metabolites and Antioxidant Responses of Eleais guineensis Jacq. (Oil Palm) Seedlings
Authors: Ibrahim Mohd Hafiz , Jaafar Hawa Z.E.
Published: May 2012

A split plot 3 by 3 experiment was designed to investigate the relationships among production of primary metabolites (soluble sugar and starch), secondary metabolites (total flavonoids, TF; total phenolics, TP), phenylalanine lyase (PAL) activity (EC 4.3.1.5), protein and antioxidant activity (FRAP) of three progenies of oil palm seedlings, namely Deli AVROS, Deli Yangambi and Deli URT, under three levels of CO2 enrichment (400, 800 and 1,200 µmol·mol−1) for 15 weeks of exposure. During the study, the treatment effects were solely contributed by CO2 enrichment levels; no progenies and interaction effects were observed. As CO2 levels increased from 400 to 1,200 µmol·mol−1, the production of carbohydrate increased steadily, especially for starch more than soluble sugar. The production of total flavonoids and phenolics contents, were the highest under 1,200 and lowest at 400 µmol·mol−1. It was found that PAL activity was peaked under 1,200 µmol·mol−1 followed by 800 µmol·mol−1 and 400 µmol·mol−1. However, soluble protein was highest under 400 µmol·mol−1 and lowest under 1,200 µmol·mol−1. The sucrose/starch ratio, i.e., the indication of sucrose phosphate synthase actvity (EC 2.4.1.14) was found to be lowest as CO2 concentration increased from 400 > 800 > 1,200 µmol·mol−1. The antioxidant activity, as determined by the ferric reducing/antioxidant potential (FRAP) activity, increased with increasing CO2 levels, and was significantly lower than vitamin C and α-tocopherol but higher than butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT). Correlation analysis revealed that nitrogen has a significant negative correlation with carbohydrate, secondary metabolites and FRAP activity indicating up-regulation of production of carbohydrate, secondary metabolites and antioxidant activity of oil palm seedling under elevated CO2 was due to reduction in nitrogen content in oil palm seedling expose to high CO2 levels.
Improving Landslide Forecasting Using ASCAT-Derived Soil Moisture Data: A Case Study of the Torgiovannetto Landslide in Central Italy
Authors: Brocca Luca , Ponziani Francesco , Moramarco Tommaso , Melone Florisa , Berni Nicola , Wagner Wolfgang
Published: May 2012

Predicting the spatial and temporal occurrence of rainfall triggered landslides represents an important scientific and operational issue due to the high threat that they pose to human life and property. This study investigates the relationship between rainfall, soil moisture conditions and landslide movement by using recorded movements of a rock slope located in central Italy, the Torgiovannetto landslide. This landslide is a very large rock slide, threatening county and state roads. Data acquired by a network of extensometers and a meteorological station clearly indicate that the movements of the unstable wedge, first detected in 2003, are still proceeding and the alternate phases of quiescence and reactivation are associated with rainfall patterns. By using a multiple linear regression approach, the opening of the tension cracks (as recorded by the extensometers) as a function of rainfall and soil moisture conditions prior the occurrence of rainfall, are predicted for the period 2007–2009. Specifically, soil moisture indicators are obtained through the Soil Water Index, SWI, a product derived by the Advanced SCATterometer (ASCAT) on board the MetOp (Meteorological Operational) satellite and by an Antecedent Precipitation Index, API. Results indicate that the regression performance (in terms of correlation coefficient, r) significantly enhances if an indicator of the soil moisture conditions is included. Specifically, r is equal to 0.40 when only rainfall is used as a predictor variable and increases to r = 0.68 and r = 0.85 if the API and the SWI are used respectively. Therefore, the coarse spatial resolution (25 km) of satellite data notwithstanding, the ASCAT SWI is found to be very useful for the prediction of landslide movements on a local scale. These findings, although valid for a specific area, present new opportunities for the effective use of satellite-derived soil moisture estimates to improve landslide forecasting.
Electric Field Guided Assembly of One-Dimensional Nanostructures for High Performance Sensors
Authors: Brown Devon A. , Kim Jong-Hoon , Lee Hyun-Boo , Fotouhi Gareth , Lee Kyong-Hoon , Liu Wing Kam , Chung Jae-Hyun
Published: May 2012

Various nanowire or nanotube-based devices have been demonstrated to fulfill the anticipated future demands on sensors. To fabricate such devices, electric field-based methods have demonstrated a great potential to integrate one-dimensional nanostructures into various forms. This review paper discusses theoretical and experimental aspects of the working principles, the assembled structures, and the unique functions associated with electric field-based assembly. The challenges and opportunities of the assembly methods are addressed in conjunction with future directions toward high performance sensors.
Magic Ring: A Finger-Worn Device for Multiple Appliances Control Using Static Finger Gestures
Authors: Jing Lei , Zhou Yinghui , Cheng Zixue , Huang Tongjun
Published: May 2012

An ultimate goal for Ubiquitous Computing is to enable people to interact with the surrounding electrical devices using their habitual body gestures as they communicate with each other. The feasibility of such an idea is demonstrated through a wearable gestural device named Magic Ring (MR), which is an original compact wireless sensing mote in a ring shape that can recognize various finger gestures. A scenario of wireless multiple appliances control is selected as a case study to evaluate the usability of such a gestural interface. Experiments comparing the MR and a Remote Controller (RC) were performed to evaluate the usability. From the results, only with 10 minutes practice, the proposed paradigm of gestural-based control can achieve a performance of completing about six tasks per minute, which is in the same level of the RC-based method.