bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interactive mobile learning: a pilot study of a new approach for sport science and medical undergraduate students
Authors: Bruce-Low S. S. , Burnet S. , Arber K. , Price D. , Webster L. , Stopforth M.
Published: November 2013

Mobile learning has increasingly become interwoven into the fabric of learning and teaching in the United Kingdom higher education sector, and as technological issues become addressed, this phenomena has accelerated. The aim of the study was to examine whether learning using a mobile learning device (Samsung NC10 Netbook) loaded with interactive exercises promoted learning compared with a traditional library exercise. Using a randomized trial, 55 students from an undergraduate sports science course ( n = 28) and medical course ( n = 27) volunteered to participate in this study. A mixed-model design ANOVA was used to examine the percent change in test score after a 3-wk intervention. Results showed that there was a significant difference between the two courses ( P < 0.001), methods ( P = 0.01), and trials ( P < 0.001). The findings suggested that both methods augmented student knowledge and understanding in sports science and medical students. The sports science group demonstrated proportionally greater increases in test performance when exposed to the mobile interactive intervention compared with the traditional library approach. Qualitative data suggest an increased level of engagement with the Netbooks due to the stimulating interactive content. In conclusion, the Netbooks were an effective additional learning tool, significantly enhancing knowledge and understanding in students. Further research should ensure that participants are assessed for preferred learning styles, the subjective task value of expectancy value, and readiness for mobile learning to ascertain if this has an effect on the potential for using mobile learning and interactivity.
A comparison of student performance on discipline-specific versus integrated exams in a medical school course
Authors: Thompson Andrew R. , Braun Mark W. , O'Loughlin Valerie D.
Published: November 2013

Curricular reform is a widespread trend among medical schools. Assessing the impact that pedagogical changes have on students is a vital step in review process. This study examined how a shift from discipline-focused instruction and assessment to integrated instruction and assessment affected student performance in a second-year medical school pathology course. We investigated this by comparing pathology exam scores between students exposed to traditional discipline-specific instruction and exams (DSE) versus integrated instruction and exams (IE). Exam content was controlled, and individual questions were evaluated using a modified version of Bloom's taxonomy. Additionally, we compared United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) step 1 scores between DSE and IE groups. Our findings indicate that DSE students performed better than IE students on complete pathology exams. However, when exam content was controlled, exam scores were equivalent between groups. We also discovered that the integrated exams were composed of a significantly greater proportion of questions classified on the higher levels of Bloom's taxonomy and that IE students performed better on these questions overall. USMLE step 1 exam scores were similar between groups. The finding of a significant difference in content complexity between discipline-specific and integrated exams adds to recent literature indicating that there are a number of potential biases related to curricular comparison studies that must be considered. Future investigation involving larger sample sizes and multiple disciplines should be performed to explore this matter further.
Mechanical Sensitization of Cutaneous Sensory Fibers in the Spared Nerve Injury Mouse Model
Authors: Smith Amanda K , O'Hara Crystal L , Stucky Cheryl L
Published: November 2013

Background

The spared nerve injury (SNI) model of neuropathic pain produces robust and reproducible behavioral mechanical hypersensitivity. Although this rodent model of neuropathic pain has been well established and widely used, peripheral mechanisms underlying this phenotype remain incompletely understood. Here we investigated the role of cutaneous sensory fibers in the maintenance of mechanical hyperalgesia in mice post-SNI.

Findings

SNI produced robust, long-lasting behavioral mechanical hypersensitivity compared to sham and naïve controls beginning by post-operative day (POD) 1 and continuing through at least POD 180. We performed teased fiber recordings on single cutaneous fibers from the spared sural nerve using ex vivo skin-nerve preparations. Recordings were made between POD 16–42 after SNI or sham surgery. Aδ-mechanoreceptors (AM) and C fibers, many of which are nociceptors, from SNI mice fired significantly more action potentials in response to suprathreshold mechanical stimulation than did fibers from either sham or naïve control mice. However, there was no increase in spontaneous activity.

Conclusions

To our knowledge, this is the first study evaluating the contribution of primary afferent fibers in the SNI model. These data suggest that enhanced suprathreshold firing in AM and C fibers may play a role in the marked, persistent mechanical hypersensitivity observed in this model. These results may provide insight into mechanisms underlying neuropathic pain in humans.
Attainable region analysis for continuous production of second generation bioethanol
Authors: Scott Felipe , Conejeros Raúl , Aroca Germán
Published: November 2013

Background

Despite its semi-commercial status, ethanol production from lignocellulosics presents many complexities not yet fully solved. Since the pretreatment stage has been recognized as a complex and yield-determining step, it has been extensively studied. However, economic success of the production process also requires optimization of the biochemical conversion stage. This work addresses the search of bioreactor configurations with improved residence times for continuous enzymatic saccharification and fermentation operations. Instead of analyzing each possible configuration through simulation, we apply graphical methods to optimize the residence time of reactor networks composed of steady-state reactors. Although this can be easily made for processes described by a single kinetic expression, reactions under analysis do not exhibit this feature. Hence, the attainable region method, able to handle multiple species and its reactions, was applied for continuous reactors. Additionally, the effects of the sugars contained in the pretreatment liquor over the enzymatic hydrolysis and simultaneous saccharification and fermentation (SSF) were assessed.

Results

We obtained candidate attainable regions for separate enzymatic hydrolysis and fermentation (SHF) and SSF operations, both fed with pretreated corn stover. Results show that, despite the complexity of the reaction networks and underlying kinetics, the reactor networks that minimize the residence time can be constructed by using plug flow reactors and continuous stirred tank reactors. Regarding the effect of soluble solids in the feed stream to the reactor network, for SHF higher glucose concentration and yield are achieved for enzymatic hydrolysis with washed solids. Similarly, for SSF, higher yields and bioethanol titers are obtained using this substrate.

Conclusions

In this work, we demonstrated the capabilities of the attainable region analysis as a tool to assess the optimal reactor network with minimum residence time applied to the SHF and SSF operations for lignocellulosic ethanol production. The methodology can be readily modified to evaluate other kinetic models of different substrates, enzymes and microorganisms when available. From the obtained results, the most suitable reactor configuration considering residence time and rheological aspects is a continuous stirred tank reactor followed by a plug flow reactor (both in SSF mode) using washed solids as substrate.
Comparative secretome analysis of Trichoderma asperellum S4F8 and Trichoderma reesei Rut C30 during solid-state fermentation on sugarcane bagasse
Authors: Marx Isa Jacoba , van Wyk Niël , Smit Salome , Jacobson Daniel , Viljoen-Bloom Marinda , Volschenk Heinrich
Published: November 2013

Background

The lignocellulosic enzymes of Trichoderma species have received particular attention with regard to biomass conversion to biofuels, but the production cost of these enzymes remains a significant hurdle for their commercial application. In this study, we quantitatively compared the lignocellulolytic enzyme profile of a newly isolated Trichoderma asperellum S4F8 strain with that of Trichoderma reesei Rut C30, cultured on sugarcane bagasse (SCB) using solid-state fermentation (SSF).

Results

Comparison of the lignocellulolytic enzyme profiles of S4F8 and Rut C30 showed that S4F8 had significantly higher hemicellulase and β-glucosidase enzyme activities. Liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry analysis of the two fungal secretomes enabled the detection of 815 proteins in total, with 418 and 397 proteins being specific for S4F8 and Rut C30, respectively, and 174 proteins being common to both strains. In-depth analysis of the associated biological functions and the representation of glycoside hydrolase family members within the two secretomes indicated that the S4F8 secretome contained a higher diversity of main and side chain hemicellulases and β-glucosidases, and an increased abundance of some of these proteins compared with the Rut C30 secretome.

Conclusions

In SCB SSF, T. asperellum S4F8 produced a more complex lignocellulolytic cocktail, with enhanced hemicellulose and cellobiose hydrolysis potential, compared with T. reesei Rut C30. This bodes well for the development of a more cost-effective and efficient lignocellulolytic enzyme cocktail from T. asperellum for lignocellulosic feedstock hydrolysis.
Tracking the cellulolytic activity of Clostridium thermocellum biofilms
Authors: Dumitrache Alexandru , Wolfaardt Gideon M , Allen David Grant , Liss Steven N , Lynd Lee R
Published: November 2013

Background

Microbial cellulose conversion by Clostridium thermocellum 27405 occurs predominantly through the activity of substrate-adherent bacteria organized in thin, primarily single cell-layered biofilms. The importance of cellulosic surface exposure to microbial hydrolysis has received little attention despite its implied impact on conversion kinetics.

Results

We showed the spatial heterogeneity of fiber distribution in pure cellulosic sheets, which made direct measurements of biofilm colonization and surface penetration impossible. Therefore, we utilized on-line measurements of carbon dioxide (CO2) production in continuous-flow reactors, in conjunction with confocal imaging, to observe patterns of biofilm invasion and to indirectly estimate microbial accessibility to the substrate’s surface and the resulting limitations on conversion kinetics. A strong positive correlation was found between cellulose consumption and CO2 production (R2 = 0.996) and between surface area and maximum biofilm activity (R2 = 0.981). We observed an initial biofilm development rate (0.46 h-1, 0.34 h-1 and 0.33 h-1) on Whatman sheets (#1, #598 and #3, respectively) that stabilized when the accessible surface was maximally colonized. The results suggest that cellulose conversion kinetics is initially subject to a microbial limitation period where the substrate is in excess, followed by a substrate limitation period where cellular mass, in the form of biofilms, is not limiting. Accessible surface area acts as an important determinant of the respective lengths of these two distinct periods. At end-point fermentation, all sheets were digested predominantly under substrate accessibility limitations (e.g., up to 81% of total CO2 production for Whatman #1). Integration of CO2 production rates over time showed Whatman #3 underwent the fastest conversion efficiency under microbial limitation, suggestive of best biofilm penetration, while Whatman #1 exhibited the least recalcitrance and the faster degradation during the substrate limitation period.

Conclusion

The results showed that the specific biofilm development rate of cellulolytic bacteria such as C. thermocellum has a notable effect on overall reactor kinetics during the period of microbial limitation, when ca. 20% of cellulose conversion occurs. The study further demonstrated the utility of on-line CO2 measurements as a method to assess biofilm development and substrate digestibility pertaining to microbial solubilization of cellulose, which is relevant when considering feedstock pre-treatment options.
Association between systemic hemodynamics and septic acute kidney injury in critically ill patients: a retrospective observational study
Authors: Legrand Matthieu , Dupuis Claire , Simon Christelle , Gayat Etienne , Mateo Joaquim , Lukaszewicz Anne-Claire , Payen Didier
Published: November 2013

Introduction

The role of systemic hemodynamics in the pathogenesis of septic acute kidney injury (AKI) has received little attention. The purpose of this study was to investigate the association between systemic hemodynamics and new or persistent of AKI in severe sepsis.

Methods

A retrospective study between 2006 and 2010 was performed in a surgical ICU in a teaching hospital. AKI was defined as development (new AKI) or persistent AKI during the five days following admission based on the Acute Kidney Injury Network (AKIN) criteria. We studied the association between the following hemodynamic targets within 24 hours of admission and AKI: central venous pressure (CVP), cardiac output (CO), mean arterial pressure (MAP), diastolic arterial pressure (DAP), central venous oxygen saturation (ScvO2) or mixed venous oxygen saturation (SvO2).

Results

This study included 137 ICU septic patients. Of these, 69 had new or persistent AKI. AKI patients had a higher Simplified Acute Physiology Score (SAPS II) (57 (46 to 67) vs. 45 (33 to 52), P < 0.001) and higher mortality (38% vs. 15%, P = 0.003) than those with no AKI or improving AKI. MAP, ScvO2 and CO were not significantly different between groups. Patients with AKI had lower DAP and higher CVP (P = 0.0003). The CVP value was associated with the risk of developing new or persistent AKI even after adjustment for fluid balance and positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) level (OR = 1.22 (1.08 to 1.39), P = 0.002). A linear relationship between CVP and the risk of new or persistent AKI was observed.

Conclusions

We observed no association between most systemic hemodynamic parameters and AKI in septic patients. Association between elevated CVP and AKI suggests a role of venous congestion in the development of AKI. The paradigm that targeting high CVP may reduce occurrence of AKI should probably be revised. Furthermore, DAP should be considered as a potential important hemodynamic target for the kidney.
Chromatin signatures at transcriptional start sites separate two equally populated yet distinct classes of intergenic long noncoding RNAs
Authors: Marques Ana C , Hughes Jim , Graham Bryony , Kowalczyk Monika S , Higgs Doug R , Ponting Chris P
Published: November 2013

Background

Mammalian transcriptomes contain thousands of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs). Some lncRNAs originate from intragenic enhancers which, when active, behave as alternative promoters producing transcripts that are processed using the canonical signals of their host gene. We have followed up this observation by analyzing intergenic lncRNAs to determine the extent to which they might also originate from intergenic enhancers.

Results

We integrated high-resolution maps of transcriptional initiation and transcription to annotate a conservative set of intergenic lncRNAs expressed in mouse erythroblasts. We subclassified intergenic lncRNAs according to chromatin status at transcriptional initiation regions, defined by relative levels of histone H3K4 mono- and trimethylation. These transcripts are almost evenly divided between those arising from enhancer-associated (elncRNA) or promoter-associated (plncRNA) elements. These two classes of 5′ capped and polyadenylated RNA transcripts are indistinguishable with regard to their length, number of exons or transcriptional orientation relative to their closest neighboring gene. Nevertheless, elncRNAs are more tissue-restricted, less highly expressed and less well conserved during evolution. Of considerable interest, we found that expression of elncRNAs, but not plncRNAs, is associated with enhanced expression of neighboring protein-coding genes during erythropoiesis.

Conclusions

We have determined globally the sites of initiation of intergenic lncRNAs in erythroid cells, allowing us to distinguish two similarly abundant classes of transcripts. Different correlations between the levels of elncRNAs, plncRNAs and expression of neighboring genes suggest that functional lncRNAs from the two classes may play contrasting roles in regulating the transcript abundance of local or distal loci.
Functional coupling of chloride–proton exchanger ClC-5 to gastric H+,K+-ATPase
Authors: Takahashi Yuji , Fujii Takuto , Fujita Kyosuke , Shimizu Takahiro , Higuchi Taiga , Tabuchi Yoshiaki , Sakamoto Hisato , Naito Ichiro , Manabe Koji , Uchida Shinichi , Sasaki Sei , Ikari Akira , Tsukada Kazuhiro , Sakai Hideki
Published: November 2013

It has been reported that chloride–proton exchanger ClC-5 and vacuolar-type H+-ATPase are essential for endosomal acidification in the renal proximal cells. Here, we found that ClC-5 is expressed in the gastric parietal cells which secrete actively hydrochloric acid at the luminal region of the gland, and that it is partially localized in the intracellular tubulovesicles in which gastric H+,K+-ATPase is abundantly expressed. ClC-5 was co-immunoprecipitated with H+,K+-ATPase in the lysate of tubulovesicles. The ATP-dependent uptake of 36Cl− into the vesicles was abolished by 2-methyl-8-(phenylmethoxy)imidazo[1,2-a]pyridine-3-acetonitrile (SCH28080), an inhibitor of H+,K+-ATPase, suggesting functional expression of ClC-5. In the tetracycline-regulated expression system of ClC-5 in the HEK293 cells stably expressing gastric H+,K+-ATPase, ClC-5 was co-immunoprecipitated with H+,K+-ATPase, but not with endogenous Na+,K+-ATPase. The SCH28080-sensitive 36Cl− transporting activity was observed in the ClC-5-expressing cells, but not in the ClC-5-non-expressing cells. The mutant (E211A-ClC-5), which has no H+ transport activity, did not show the SCH28080-sensitive 36Cl− transport. On the other hand, both ClC-5 and its mutant (E211A) significantly increased the activity of H+,K+-ATPase. Our results suggest that ClC-5 and H+,K+-ATPase are functionally associated and that they may contribute to gastric acid secretion.
Meeting report – Arf and Rab family G proteins
Authors: Casanova James E. , Hsu Victor W. , Jackson Catherine L. , Kahn Richard A. , Roy Craig R. , Stow Jennifer L. , Wandinger-Ness Angela , Sztul Elizabeth
Published: November 2013

A FASEB Summer Research Conference entitled ‘Arf and Rab family G proteins’ was held in July 2013 at Snowmass Village, Snowmass, Colorado. Arfs and Rabs are two families of GTPases that control membrane trafficking in eukaryotic cells, and increasing evidence indicates that their functions are tightly coordinated. Because many workers in this field have focused on only one family, this meeting was designed to integrate our understanding of the two families. The conference was organized by Elizabeth Sztul (University of Alabama, Birmingham, USA) and Jim Casanova (University of Virginia, Charlottesville, USA), and provided an opportunity for ∼90 scientists to communicate their work and discuss future directions for the field. The talks highlighted the structural, functional and regulatory properties of Arf and Rab GTPases and the need to develop coordinated approaches to investigate them. Here, we present the major themes that emerged from the meeting.
Evaluation of Postprandial Glucose Excursion Using a Novel Minimally Invasive Glucose Area‐Under‐the‐Curve Monitoring System
Authors: Kuranuki Sachi , Sato Toshiyuki , Okada Seiki , Hosoya Samiko , Seko Akinobu , Sugihara Kaya , Nakamura Teiji
Published: November 2013

Objective: To develop a minimally invasive interstitial fluid extraction technology (MIET) to monitor postprandial glucose area under the curve (AUC) without blood sampling, we evaluated the accuracy of glucose AUC measured by MIET and compared with that by blood sampling after food intake. Methods: Interstitial fluid glucose AUC (IG‐AUC) following consumption of 6 different types of foods was measured by MIET. MIET consisted of stamping microneedle arrays, placing hydrogel patches on the areas, and calculating IG‐AUC based on glucose levels in the hydrogels. Glycemic index (GI) was determined using IG‐AUC and reference AUC measured by blood sampling. Results: IG‐AUC strongly correlated with reference AUC (R = 0.91), and GI determined using IG‐AUC showed good correlation with that determined by reference AUC (R = 0.88). Conclusions: IG‐AUC obtained by MIET can accurately predict the postprandial glucose excursion without blood sampling. In addition, feasibility of GI measurement by MIET was confirmed.
Metal metaphyseal sleeves in revision total knee replacement
Authors: Agarwal S. , Azam A. , Morgan-Jones R.
Published: November 2013

Bone loss in the proximal tibia and distal femur is frequently encountered in revision knee replacement surgery. The various options for dealing with this depend on the extent of any bone loss. We present our results with the use of cementless metaphyseal metal sleeves in 103 patients (104 knees) with a mean follow-up of 43 months (30 to 65). At final follow-up, sleeves in 102 knees had good osseointegration. Two tibial sleeves were revised for loosening, possibly due to infection.

The average pre-operative Oxford Knee Score was 23 (11 to 36) and this improved to 32 (15 to 46) post-operatively. These early results encourage us to continue with the technique and monitor the outcomes in the long term.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:1640–4.
The treatment of stable paediatric forearm fractures using a cast that may be removed at home
Authors: Hamilton T. W. , Hutchings L. , Alsousou J. , Tutton E. , Hodson E. , Smith C. H. , Wakefield J. , Gray B. , Symonds S. , Willett K.
Published: November 2013

We investigated whether, in the management of stable paediatric fractures of the forearm, flexible casts that can be removed at home are as clinically effective, cost-effective and acceptable to both patient and parent as management using a cast conventionally removed in hospital. A single-centre randomised controlled trial was performed on 317 children with a mean age of 9.3 years (2 to 16). No significant differences were seen in the change in Childhood Health Assessment Questionnaire index score (p = 0.10) or EuroQol 5-Dimensions domain scores between the two groups one week after removal of the cast or the absolute scores at six months. There was a significantly lower overall median treatment cost in the group whose casts were removed at home (£150.88 (sem 1.90) vs £251.62 (sem 2.68); p <  0.001). No difference was seen in satisfaction between the two groups (p = 0.48).

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:1714–20.
Long-term follow-up of mobile-bearing total ankle replacement in patients with inflammatory joint disease
Authors: Kraal T. , van der Heide H. J. L. , van Poppel B. J. , Fiocco M. , Nelissen R. G. H. H. , Doets H. C.
Published: November 2013

Little is known about the long-term outcome of mobile-bearing total ankle replacement (TAR) in the treatment of end-stage arthritis of the ankle, and in particular for patients with inflammatory joint disease. The aim of this study was to assess the minimum ten-year outcome of TAR in this group of patients.

We prospectively followed 76 patients (93 TARs) who underwent surgery between 1988 and 1999. No patients were lost to follow-up. At latest follow-up at a mean of 14.8 years (10.7 to 22.8), 30 patients (39 TARs) had died and the original TAR remained in situ in 28 patients (31 TARs). The cumulative incidence of failure at 15 years was 20% (95% confidence interval (CI) 11 to 28). The mean American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle–hindfoot score of the surviving patients at latest follow-up was 80.4 (95% CI 72 to 88). In total, 21 patients (23 TARs) underwent subsequent surgery: three implant exchanges, three bearing exchanges and 17 arthrodeses. Neither design of TAR described in this study, the LCS and the Buechel–Pappas, remains currently available. However, based both on this study and on other reports, we believe that TAR using current mobile-bearing designs for patients with end-stage arthritis of the ankle due to inflammatory joint disease remains justified.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:1656–61.
Asymptomatic pseudotumours after metal-on-metal hip resurfacing show little change within one year
Authors: van der Weegen W. , Brakel K. , Horn R. J. , Hoekstra H. J. , Sijbesma T. , Pilot P. , Nelissen R. G. H. H.
Published: November 2013

The aim of this study was to establish the natural course of unrevised asymptomatic pseudotumours after metal-on-metal (MoM) hip resurfacing during a six- to 12-month follow-up period. We used repeated metal artefact reduction sequence (MARS)-magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), serum metal ion analysis and clinical examination to study 14 unrevised hips (mean patient age 52.7 years, 46 to 68, 5 female, 7 male) with a pseudotumour and 23 hips (mean patient age 52.8 years, 38 to 69, 7 female, 16 male) without a pseudotumour. The mean post-operative time to the first MARS-MRI scan was 4.3 years (2.2 to 8.3), and mean time between the first and second MARS-MRI scan was eight months (6 to 12). At the second MRI scan, the grade of severity of the pseudotumour had not changed in 35 hips. One new pseudotumour (Anderson C2 score, moderate) was observed, and one pseudotumour was downgraded from C2 (moderate) to C1 (mild). In general, the characteristics of the pseudotumours hardly changed.

Repeated MARS-MRI scans within one year in patients with asymptomatic pseudotumours after MoM hip resurfacing showed little or no variation. In 23 patients without pseudotumour, one new asymptomatic pseudotumour was detected.

This is the first longitudinal study on the natural history of pseudotumours using MARS-MRI scans in hip resurfacing, and mirrors recent results for 28 mm diameter MoM total hip replacement.

Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2013;95-B:1626–31.
Illicit drugs, policing and the evidence-based policy paradigm
Authors: Ritter Alison , Lancaster Kari
Published: November 2013

The mantra of evidence-based policy (EBP) suggests that endeavours to implement evidencebased policing will produce better outcomes. However there is dissonance between the rhetoric of EBP and the actuality of policing policy. This disjuncture is critically analysed using the case study of illicit drugs policing. The dissonance may be ameliorated by taking into account the policing context, and lessons from the extant evidence-based medicine, research translation and policy processes literature. Furthermore a developmental pathway notion suggests that it is only once research is fully embedded within the policy culture that critical reflections on the role of evidence become possible.
Metais traço nas águas portuárias do estuário da Lagoa dos Patos, RS
Authors: Barbosa Fabiana Gonçalves , Wallner-Kersanach Mônica , Baumgarten Maria da Graça Zepka
Published: November 2013

The Rio Grande Channel, in the area of the Port of Rio Grande, receives direct and indirect contributions of trace metals, which can compromise the quality of the estuarine waters of the lagoon. In this study, data of trace metals studies from the monitoring program of the port area of the estuary, from 1996 to 2001, were interpreted. The objective was to evaluate the distribution of cadmium, copper, lead and zinc concentrations in the total fraction of surface waters along the port area, in areas known as Porto Novo, Superporto and São José do Norte located at the Rio Grande Canal. The results showed that only the cadmium and lead concentrations were different between summer/spring (0.94 μg.L-1 Cd and 1.94 μg.L-1 Pb) and winter/autumn (0.31 μg.L-1 Cd and 2.45 μg.L-1 Pb). Regarding the spatial variation, the concentrations of four metals analyzed did not differ between study areas. In terms of variations between the studied years, the metals lead, copper and zinc showed decreases of concentrations in the years 2000 and 2001, probably because dredging activities in the estuary which remobilized sediments, and thus releasing, diluting and dispersing the metals accumulated.
Distribuição espaço-temporal de larvas de Sciaenidae em um estuário subtropical (Santa Catarina, Brasil)
Authors: Costa Micheli Duarte de Paula , Schwingel Paulo Ricardo , Souza-Conceição José Maria , Spach Henry Louis
Published: November 2013

This work studied the use of the Babitonga Bay (26º02’-26º28’S and 48º28’-48º50’W) by early life stages of Sciaenidae, considering the spatial-temporal distribution of species and their relationship with environmental factors. Samples were obtained at nine stations between October 2007 and August 2008, with 2 minutes oblique tows using a 40cm diameter conical plankton net fitted with 200µm mesh and 2 five minutes oblique tows with a 50cm diameter cylindrical-conical plankton net fitted with 500µm mesh. A total of 249 fish larvae of Sciaenidae were captured, being Cynoscion spp. (50%), Umbrina spp. (16%) e Stellifer spp. (17,6%) the most abundant taxa. Fish larvae showed the highest densities during spring and summer months, and occupied the whole estuary. Temperature and salinity were the main factors structuring the distribution of Sciaenidae larvae. Preflexion stage was the most abundant, but vitelinic, flexion and postflexion larvae were also reported. The presence of different early life stages of Sciaenidae in Babitonga Bay reveals the important role of this ecosystem as a nursery for target species of South-Southeast Brazil fisheries.
Impact of Radiotherapy Treatment on Jordanian Cancer Patients’ Quality of Life and Fatigue
Authors: Abu Obead Kholoud , Batiha Abdul-Monim Mohammad , Al-Jauissy Mohammed Said , Alhalaiqa Fadwa , AlBashtawy Mohammed
Published: November 2013

Background: The distressing treatment of cancer whether chemotherapy or radiotherapy is associated with fatigue and has negative impact on patient quality of life (QOL). Objectives: The purposes of this study were to examine the impact of radiotherapy treatment on Jordanian cancer patients’ QOL and fatigue, and to explore the relationship between fatigue and QOL. Methods: One group quasi-experimental correlational design was used with 82 patients who had been diagnosed with cancer and required radiotherapy treatment. QOL was measured using the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-General (FACT-G). Fatigue was measured using Piper Fatigue Scale (PFS). Data were collected over a period of three months, and analyzed using Pearson Product Moment Correlation, descriptive statistics and paired-sample t-test. Results: Significant differences were found between pre- and post- radiotherapy QOL mean total scores (t=19.3, df=79, P<0.05), as well as physical, emotional, sexual, and functional wellbeing dimensions. Statistically significant differences were found between pre- and post- radiotherapy fatigue mean total scores (t=-8.95, df=79, P<0.05), as well as on behavioral, affective, sensory, and cognitive dimensions of PFS. Quality of life total scores correlated significantly and negatively with total fatigue scores (P<0.01). Conclusions: Exposure of cancer patient to radiotherapy treatment increased their fatigue level and decreased their QOL.  Nurses should assess cancer patients before, during, and after their treatment to design proper interventions to reduce fatigue and enhance QOL.
Computational Antioxidant Capacity Simulation (CAOCS): A Novel Framework of Antioxidant Capacity Profiling
Authors: Idowu Sunday O.
Published: November 2013

Inconsistent ranking is a well-known drawback of antioxidant capacity (AOC) profiling methodologies that use free-radical species as oxidant. This problem leads to assay results that are not biorelevant. Linear free energy relationships (LFER) theory predicts proton transfer (PT) kinetics as a surrogate for biorelevant hydrogen atom transfer (HAT) kinetics. Computational antioxidant capacity simulation (CAOCS), based on real-time proton transfer kinetics modeling (PTKM) of polyphenols and phenol-like small molecules, inspired a novel AOC profiling methodology.

Kinetic data acquired by incremental addition of resorcinol to an oxidized probe (phenol red), was fitted to mono-exponential decay equation (MED). Absorbance decay data from strongly antioxidant phenol-like molecules (e.g. ascorbic acid) and a new chromogenic probe (phenolphthalein) was fitted to MED and bi-exponential decay equation. The preferred model and corresponding best-fit rate constant (K
ptt) was identified by comparison of fits, using Akaike’s Information Criterion (AICc).

Photometric phenolphthalein assay (PPA)-derived metric was normalized with photometric phenol red assay (PPRA) results by using a function developed from proton concentration differential between phenolphthalein and phenol red, with respect to decay threshold to plateau (assay endpoint) interval. pKa dependence of the CAOCS’ metric is a signature of structure–function relationships, and hence, biorelevance.

It is shown, unambiguously, that a combination of two phenolic probe molecules, an analytical system devoid of free radicals, and statistical identification of preferred exponential decay fit to PT kinetics data, constitutes a novel algorithm for AOC profiling of polyphenols and phenol-like molecules. This methodology holds a promise of utility in quality assurance of dietary supplements.
Anomalous thermal expansion behaviors of wood under dry and low-temperature conditions
Authors: Miki Tsunehisa , Sugimoto Hiroyuki , Furuta Yuzo , Shigematsu Ichinori , Kanayama Kozo
Published: November 2013

The thermal expansion behavior of dry solid wood was investigated by dynamic dilatometry and thermal mechanical analysis. Anomalous thermal expansion behavior was observed concerning the displacement change under a constant compression pressure, which was not previously reported. Wood submitted to temperatures below 0°C under dry conditions exhibited a large increment in the linear thermal expansion coefficient (CLTE) and a sudden drop in the CLTE around 50°C as well as above 130°C during heating. In subsequent cooling/heating processes, these anomalous behaviors remained at temperatures below 100°C, although less pronounced, and disappeared at temperatures above 100°C. These behaviors were clearly perceptible in the radial and tangential directions but not in the longitudinal direction. The CLTE depended strongly on the heat and moisture history of the samples and the effects are species-specific.
On a theorem of Carlitz
Authors: Zieve Michael E.
Published: November 2013

Carlitz proved that, for any prime power q > 2, the group of all permutations of 𝔽
q

is generated by the permutations induced by degree-one polynomials and
x

q-2. His proof relies on a remarkable polynomial which appears
to have been found by magic. We show here that no magic is required:
there is a straightforward
way to produce a simple polynomial which has the same remarkable properties
as the complicated polynomial in Carlitz's proof. We also identify the
crucial subtlety which allows such simple polynomials to exist, and discuss
some consequences.
All-fiber lasers through photonic crystal fibers
Authors: Pinto Ana M.R. , Lopez-Amo Manuel
Published: November 2013

A review on all-fiber lasers based on photonic crystal fibers is presented. Photonic crystal fibers present improved features beyond what conventional optical fibers can offer. Due to their geometric versatility, photonic crystal fibers can present special properties and abilities which can lead to enhanced lasing structures. A brief description of photonic crystal fibers and fiber laser’s properties is presented. All-fiber laser structures developed using photonic crystal fibers are described and divided in two groups, depending on the cavity topology: ring cavity fiber lasers and linear cavity fiber lasers. All-fiber lasers applications in the photonic crystal fiber related sensing field are described.
Photonic crystal fiber amplifiers for high power ultrafast fiber lasers
Authors: Alkeskjold Thomas T. , Laurila Marko , Weirich Johannes , Johansen Mette M. , Olausson Christina B. , Lumholt Ole , Noordegraaf Danny , Maack Martin D. , Jakobsen Christian
Published: November 2013

In recent years, ultrafast laser systems using large-mode-area fiber amplifiers delivering several hundreds of watts of average power has attracted significant academic and industrial interest. These amplifiers can generate hundreds of kilowatts to megawatts of peak power using direct amplification and multi-gigawatts of peak power using pulse stretching techniques. These amplifiers are enabled by advancements in Photonic Crystal Fiber (PCF) design and manufacturing technology. In this paper, we will give a short overview of state-of-the-art PCF amplifiers and describe the performance in ultrafast ps laser systems.
Microcellular injection molding of recycled poly(ethylene terephthalate) blends with chain extenders and nanoclay
Authors: Srithep Yottha , Turng Lih-Sheng
Published: November 2013

Poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) resin is one of the most widely used thermoplastics, especially in packaging. Due to thermal and hydrolytic degradations, recycled PET (RPET) exhibits poor mechanical properties and lacks moldability. The effects of adding chain extender (CE) and nanoclay to RPET were investigated. Melt blending of RPET with CE was performed in a thermokinetic mixer (K-mixer). The blended materials were then prepared via solid and microcellular injection molding processes. The effects of CE loading levels and the simultaneous addition of nanoclay on the thermal and mechanical properties and cell morphology of the microcellular components were noted. The addition of 1.3% CE enhanced the tensile properties and viscosity of RPET. The higher amount of CE (at 3%) enhanced the viscosity, but the margin of improvement in mechanical properties diminished. While the solid RPET and CE blends were fairly ductile, the samples with nanoclay and all microcellular specimens showed brittle fractural behavior. Finally, nanoclay and the increase of CE content decreased the average cell size and enlarged the cell density of the microcellular samples.
Isotopic ecology of fossil fauna from Olduvai Gorge at ca 1.8 Ma, compared with modern fauna
Authors: Van der Merwe Nikolaas J.
Published: November 2013

Light stable isotope ratios (δ13C and δ18O) of tooth enamel have been widely used to determine the diets and water sources of fossil fauna. The carbon isotope ratios indicate whether the plants at the base of the food web used C3 or C4 photosynthetic pathways, while the oxygen isotope ratios indicate the composition of the local rainfall and whether the animals drank water or obtained it from plants. The contrasting diets of two early hominin species – Homo habilis and Paranthropus boisei – of ca 1.8 Ma (million years ago) in Tanzania were determined by means of stable carbon isotope analysis of their tooth enamel in a previous study. The diets of two specimens of P. boisei, from Olduvai and Peninj, proved to be particularly unusual, because 80% of their carbon was derived from C4 plants. It was suggested that their diet consisted primarily of plants, with particular emphasis on papyrus, a C4sedge. The dominance of C4 plants in the diet of P. boisei is a finding supported in another study of 22 specimens from Kenya. The isotopic ecology and diets of fossil fauna that were present at the same time as the two fossil hominin species are described here, in order to provide a fuller understanding of their contrasting diets and of the moisture sources of their water intake. This information was then compared with the isotopic composition of modern fauna from the same region of Tanzania. The carbon isotope ratios for both fossil and modern specimens show that the habitats in which these faunal populations lived were quite similar – grassland or wooded grassland. They had enough bushes and trees to support a few species of browsers, but most of the animals were grazers or mixed feeders. The oxygen isotope ratios of the fossil and modern fauna were, however, very different, suggesting strongly that the source of moisture for the rain in the Olduvai region has changed during the past 1.8 million years.
new look at demographic transformation for universities in South Africa
Authors: Govinder Kesh S. , Zondo Nombuso P. , Makgoba Malegapuru W.
Published: November 2013

We used our previously defined ‘Equity Index’ to determine the demographic profile of the 23 universities in South Africa’s higher education sector. We undertook an analysis of the demographic profiles of both students and staff based on audited 2011 data from the Higher Education Management Information System. We also considered an equity-weighted research index. We show the general applicability of the Euclidean formula in calculating 230 equity indices within the university sector. All institutions in the country were ranked in these categories. These rankings are quite instructive as to the demographics of the sector, both nationally and for individual institutions. No university has reached the ideal Overall Equity Index of zero and none falls within a 5% tolerance of the national demographic data. Four groups of universities emerge: those with good equity indices and low research productivity; those with poor equity indices and low research productivity; those with poor equity indices and high research productivity; and, finally, those with good equity indices and high research productivity. This index is the first quantitative measure that can be incorporated into an analysis of transformation. The Equity Index adds an innovative ‘new look’ to the profile and differentiation of the South African higher education landscape, and should become an important policy tool in steering the system towards a notion of transformation that connects, rather than disconnects, equity, development and differentiation. The index may also become a useful universal measurement of equity in higher education (and other) systems globally.
Influence of subgrade strength on the performance of geocell-reinforced foundation systems
Authors: Biswas A. , Murali Krishna A. , Dash S.K.
Published: November 2013

ABSTRACT: Physical model tests were performed on geocell-reinforced foundation systems with circular footings to study the influence of the strength of the subgrade layer. Model tests were conducted with a 150 mm diameter circular footing supported on foundation beds with varied configurations. Three different series of tests were conducted using a clay subgrade with undrained cohesion in the range of 7–60 kPa and dense sand at 80% of relative density. The results showed that the performance of the geocell-reinforced foundation systems was highly dependent on the subgrade strength. A maximum improvement factor of about 11.6 was observed for very soft subgrade with cu= 7 kPa, which decreased to about 3 for stiffer subgrade having cu= 30 kPa under similar test conditions and configuration. In addition, the variation of bearing capacity improvement factors was observed to be significantly influenced by footing settlement and geocell height.
Influence of woven structure on coir rolled erosion-control products
Authors: Midha V.K. , Suresh Kumar S.
Published: November 2013

ABSTRACT: Rolled erosion-control products (RECPs) are used in erosion-prone zones to hold the soil until permanent vegetation is established. A variety of materials are available for controlling soil erosion, but RECPs made of coir or jute offer several advantages such as better moisture retention in comparison with synthetic materials for the growth of vegetation, and they are durable and biodegradable. In this study, the application of plain, 2/1 twill and 4-end satin-woven RECPs were investigated for soil erosion control. Runoff soil erosion tests were carried out in a bench-scale setup according to ASTM D7101 with modifications at 15°, 30° and 45° slope angles. Simulated rainfall was applied to the test tray filled with soil brought from the lower Himalayan Shiwalik ranges. Germination tests were performed according to ASTM D7322. It was observed that twill woven RECPs showed better performance in germination tests with the highest total rooting and vegetation in the range 86.4–96.6% in comparison with 81.9–84.1% for plain woven structures. The soil erosion test results were found to depend on the soil slopes. At lower and medium slopes, twill woven structures were found to perform better whereas plain woven structures were found to perform better for steeper slopes.
Effect of geosynthetic creep on reinforced pile-supported embankment systems
Authors: Ariyarathne P. , Liyanapathirana D.S. , Leo C.J.
Published: November 2013

ABSTRACT: Geosynthetic-reinforced pile-supported (GRPS) embankments provide an effective solution to the problems faced by geotechnical engineers when dealing with embankment construction on soft foundation soils. Introduction of piles will reduce the embankment load transferred to the soft soil and the addition of a geosynthetic reinforcement layer will enhance the load transfer to the piles while alleviating the uneven settlements at the crest of the embankment. Numerous studies have been carried out regarding GRPS embankments throughout the last few decades including both experimental work and numerical studies. However, the creep effects of the geosynthetic layer were not investigated in these studies. This paper presents a numerical analysis carried out on a GRPS embankment based on the finite-element method including the creep effects of the geosynthetic layer. The creep model used in the analysis was validated using experimental data from previous studies which involved a geosynthetic pullout test and uniaxial tensile tests. The analysis was carried out in three-dimensional condition and the interaction between the soil and the geosynthetic layer was also taken into account. Furthermore, results from a parametric study to investigate the significance of creep on the overall behaviour of GRPS by varying the creep model parameters are presented.
Occurrence and fate of N-nitrosamines and their formation potential in three wastewater treatment plants in Japan
Authors: Yoon Suchul , Nakada Norihide , Tanaka Hiroaki
Published: November 2013

N-nitrosamines are well known as carcinogens present in the environment. However, studies of the occurrence and fate of N-nitrosamines and their N-nitrosamine formation potential (FP) in wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) are lacking. Therefore, the objectives of this study were to determine the occurrence of N-nitrosamines in WWTPs, the FP of N-nitrosamines on chloramination during wastewater treatment, and the efficiency of FPNH2Cl reduction by biological treatment. Also, the residual FPNH2Cl in the final discharge was investigated. The efficiencies of removal of N-nitrosamines ranged from 35 to 94% (WWTP O; residential area), from 58 to 98% (WWTP E; industrial area), and from 58% to >99% (WWTP N; industrial area). In WWTP O, the rates of production of N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA) (42%) and NDBA (58%) were the highest. In WWTP E, only NDBA (34%) was produced. In WWTP N, NPYR and NPIP (both >99%) were produced. NDMA FPNH2Cl values were very high in influent in all WWTPs. The efficiencies of removal of N-nitrosamine FPNH2Cl during biological treatment ranged from 20% to >99%, but there is no obvious explanation for this variability. Residual N-nitrosamine FPNH2Cl ranged from 2 to 22 ng L−1. Thus, N-nitrosamines could be produced in water purification or reclamation plants using discharge from WWTPs.