bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Envisioning World Literature in 1863: From the Reports on a Mission Abroad
Authors: Veselovsky A. N. , Flaherty Jennifer , Maslov Boris
Published: June 2013

Veselovsky has assigned a task to scholarship which can hardly ever be solved. The Russian formalists, however, have taken up his challenge.

—René Wellek (279)

The task, which many feel is beyond their abilities, lies within the power of scholarship.

—A. N. Veselovsky

ALEXANDER NIKOLAEVICH VESELOVSKY (1838-1906) IS WIDELY REGARDED AS RUSSIA'S MOST DISTINGUISHED AND INFLUENTIAL Literary theorist before the formation of Opoyaz (“Society for the Study of Poetic Language”), whose members—Viktor Shklovsky, Boris Eikhenbaum, Yury Tynianov, Roman Jakobson, and others—developed the approach generally known as Russian formalism. Readers of Shklovsky may note the prominence accorded to Veselovsky inTheory of Prose(1925). Some will also recall the use of the termhistorical poetics—in reference to the method put forward by Veselovsky—in the 1963 edition of Mikhail Bakhtin's book on Dostoevsky and in his “The Forms of Time and Chronotope in the Novel: Notes towards a Historical Poetics” (1937-38, pub. in 1975). Another eloquent testimony to Veselovsky's spectral ubiquity in Russian literary theory is the concluding paragraph of Vladimir Propp's pathbreakingMorphology of the Folktale, where Propp humbly asserts that his “propositions, although they appear to be new, were intuitively foreseen by none other than Veselovsky” and ends his study with an extensive quotation from Veselovsky'sPoetics of Plot(115-16). It is rarely recognized, however, that Veselovsky's method, in its rudimentary form, constitutes a common denominator of Shklovsky's, Bakhtin's, and Propp's widely divergent approaches.
Risk taking not foraging behavior predicts dispersal of recently emerged stream brook charr (Salvelinus fontinalis)
Authors: Edelsparre Allan H. , McLaughlin Robert L. , Rodríguez Marco A.
Published: June 2013

Several hypotheses predict that individual differences in migration and dispersal are related to individual differences in routine behavior associated with foraging and risk taking. We tested whether short‐term dispersal of recently emerged brook charrSalvelinus fontinaliswas correlated with differences in activity during prey search in the field (a measure of foraging tactic) or in the time taken to exit a dark tube into an unfamiliar field environment (a measure of risk taking). For one sample of fish, we tested whether an individual's propensity to disperse in a standardized dispersal test in the lab was correlated with its activity during prey search and its exit times in the field. For another sample of marked, released and recaptured fish, we tested whether an individual's minimum displacement distance over 6 days in the field (a measure of dispersal in the field) was related to its propensity to disperse in the lab. For the first sample, an individual's propensity to disperse in the lab was correlated with risk taking only, but, contrary to expectation, individuals with long exit times (risk‐avoiders) dispersed farther than those with short exit times (risk‐takers). For the second sample, dispersal in the field was also correlated with propensity to disperse in the lab, but, contrary to expectation, individuals with greater displacements in the field displayed lower propensities to disperse in the lab. Our findings demonstrate that individual differences in juvenile dispersal are related to differences in risk taking behavior, but not in foraging tactic, and that the nature of this relationship can depend on environmental context. These findings are consistent with the hypothesis that individuals differing in risk taking behavior can contribute disproportionately to ecological processes involving long‐distance movement.
Dynamics of White Clover Decomposition in a Southeastern Bermudagrass Lawn
Authors: McCurdy James D. , McElroy J. Scott , Guertal Elizabeth A. , Wood C. Wesley
Published: June 2013

Clover (Trifoliumspp.) inclusion within maintained turfgrass is a proposed means of increasing turfgrass sustainability; yet, little is known of the N contribution and C sequestration from decaying clover foliage. An in situ decomposition study was conducted in Auburn, AL, to quantify C and N release from the decomposition of white clover (T. repensL.) foliage within a bermudagrass lawn (Cynodon dactylon(L.) Pers.× C. transvaalensisBurtt Davy). Fresh white clover was applied during March, June, and December and was retrieved periodically after application. Four parameter double exponential decay models were used to describe clover mass as well as N and C loss. These models reveal important features of white clover decomposition; mainly that white clover is composed of a quickly decaying labile fraction. White clover litter applied at 0.5 kg fresh weight (FW) m–2potentially contributed between 2.9 to 4.2 g N m–2, with more than half available for mineralization between 10 and 73 d after application, depending on time of year. Given that clover populations are regenerative, litter deposited during mowing events may be considered a viable N source to sustain healthy turf. Knowledge of the decomposition of clover within turf swards will enable turfgrass researchers and professionals to more accurately predict nutrient contribution to associated grasses and help optimize supplemental fertilizer recommendations.
Grass–Legume Proportions in Forage Seed Mixtures and Effects on Herbage Yield and Weed Abundance
Authors: Sanderson Matt A. , Brink Geoffrey , Stout Robert , Ruth Leah
Published: June 2013

Formulating grass–legume mixtures requires knowledge of how the proportion of species in a seed mixture (i.e., species evenness) affects productivity and weed abundance. We hypothesized that mixtures with more equal proportions of species in the seed mixture (i.e., greater species evenness) would have greater productivity and fewer weeds than mixtures dominated by one or two species or monocultures. Two experiments with 15 mixtures and monocultures of orchardgrass (Dactylis glomerataL.), quackgrass (Elytrigia repensL.), alfalfa (Medicago sativaL.), and white clover (Trifolium repensL.) (Exp. 1) or 15 mixtures and monocultures of meadow fescue [Schedonorus pratensis(Huds.) P. Beauv.], reed canarygrass (Phalaris arundinaceaL.), red clover (T. pratenseL.), and kura clover (T. ambiguumL.) (Exp. 2) were sown in autumn 2008 at four locations in Pennsylvania and Wisconsin. In each experiment, there were four monocultures, four mixtures dominated by one species, six mixtures dominated by pairs of species, and one equal mixture. Mixtures and monocultures were harvested four to five times each year from 2009 to 2011. Mixtures often had more biomass than the average of legume or N‐fertilized grass monocultures. Mixtures with more equal proportions of species in the seed mixture, however, did not have more biomass or fewer weeds than other mixtures. Rather, differences in yield were related to the dominant species in the mixture. Optimal legume percentages (30–40%) in the harvested biomass were achieved with a wide range of grass and legume seed proportions, which suggested that farmers have wide flexibility in formulating seed mixtures for pastures.
UV disinfection of wastewater flocs: the effect of secondary treatment conditions
Authors: Azimi Y. , Chen X. , Allen D. G. , Pileggi V. , Seto P. , Droppo I. G. , Farnood R. R.
Published: June 2013

Activated sludge flocs that are carried to the final effluent can significantly decrease the effectiveness of ultraviolet (UV) disinfection of wastewater. This effect is detected in a typical UV dose–response curve, where at higher UV doses there is a decrease in the inactivation rate (tailing). In this study, the effect of activated sludge process conditions on the UV inactivation kinetics of flocs was investigated. The conditions compared were nitrifying vs. non-nitrifying vs. an enhanced biological nutrient removal–University of Cape Town (BNR-UCT) system. The results showed that the flocs generated in the BNR-UCT process were easier to disinfect. The final effluent from the BNR-UCT process also showed improved kinetics of inactivation and reached higher levels of disinfection. The nitrifying system's final effluent had a lower number of initial fecal coliforms, which contributed to reaching higher disinfection levels compared to the non-nitrifying system.
A model for anaerobic ponds combining settling and biological processes
Authors: Effebi K. R. , Jupsin H. , Keffala C. , Vasel J. L.
Published: June 2013

This work presents an approach to an anaerobic pond model by combining the stoichiometry of the hydrolysis and acidogenic processes of the main constituents of wastewater, i.e. carbohydrates, proteins, and lipids, grouped as a ‘combined substrate’ with a previously published settling model (see ‘Suspended solids settling and half removal time in stabilization ponds (Tunisia)’ by Effebi et al. (2011)). This approach includes biomass production. Coupling the kinetics and stoichiometry of the previous processes with the usual methanogenic model, we developed an anaerobic pond model. This paper gives the stoichiometry of the different chemical reactions that occur during the degradation of a conventional influent (corresponding to what we define as a ‘combined substrate’) of domestic wastewater and the model's first results.
A multivariate approach to assess habitat integrity in urban streams using benthic macroinvertebrate metrics
Authors: Canobbio S. , Azzellino A. , Cabrini R. , Mezzanotte V.
Published: June 2013

Benthic macroinvertebrates are widely used as indicators of the health of freshwater ecosystems, responding both to water quality and to the hydromorphological integrity. In urban streams, evaluations can be tricky for the synergistic effects of multiple stressors and confounding factors. In these situations, the most broadly used multimetric indices can be used to assess the overall damage to the invertebrate community and, thus, the overall anthropogenic pressure, but they do not allow to understand the specific causal effects. Particularly, habitat loss due to morphological alterations can be difficult to evaluate, especially due to the often concurrent disturbance caused by water pollution. We used a multivariate approach to focus on the characteristics of the streams and rivers in an urban district and to define which macroinvertebrate metrics should be used to assess the influence of the different kinds of alteration in a severely damaged environment. Some metrics enabling the assessment of habitat loss (ratio of oligochaeta, ratio of filterers) were identified. These metrics may help to raise a better awareness in the evaluation of river restoration success and, thus, in the support of decision-making processes.
Variation in PAH patterns in road runoff
Authors: Aryal Rupak , Furumai Hiroaki , Nakajima Fumiyuki , Beecham Simon
Published: June 2013

Twelve particle-bound polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) were measured in the first flush regime of road runoff during nine events in Winterthur in Switzerland. The total PAH contents ranged from 17 to 62 μg/g. The PAH patterns measured at different time intervals during the first flush periods were very similar within each event irrespective of variation in suspended solids (SS) concentration within the first flush regime. However, the PAH patterns were different from event to event. This indicates that the environment plays an important role in PAH accumulation in SS. A toxicity identification evaluation approach using a toxicity equivalency factor (TEF) was applied to compare toxicities in the different events. The TEFs were found to be between 8 and 33 μg TEQ g−1 (TEQ: toxic equivalent concentration). In some cases, two events having similar total PAH contents showed two fold toxicity differences.
Formulation and optimization of biological removal of flue gas pretreatment wastewater and sulfur recycling process by Box–Behnken design
Authors: Wang Juan , Cao Yuan , Zhong Qin
Published: June 2013

The aim of this study was to investigate optimum conditions for biological removal of flue gas pretreatment wastewater and achieve maximum elemental sulfur yield. A three-factor, three-level Box–Behnken design was used to derive a second-order polynomial equation and construct contour plots to predict responses. The independent variables selected were hydraulic retention time (X1), inlet sulfate concentration (X2), and air flow (X3). Fifteen batches were done in a biological united system and evaluated for elemental sulfur yield (Y1). The transformed values of the independent variables and Y1 were subjected to a full-model second-order polynomial equation. The equation was modified based on Fisher's F- and probability P-values. The computer optimization process and contour plots predicted the values of independent variables X1, X2 and X3 (16 h, 1,348 mg L−1 and 165 L h−1 respectively), for maximized response of Y1. The experimental results at predicted conditions demonstrate that the modified model equation has good applicability to the practical system.
Modelling and dynamic simulation of struvite precipitation from source-separated urine
Authors: Schneider Philip A. , Wallace James W. , Tickle Julian C.
Published: June 2013

A model of a mixed-mode nutrient recovery reactor is developed for a urine feed, incorporating complex solution thermodynamics, dynamic conservation relations and a power-law kinetic expression for crystal growth from seed crystals. Simulations at nominal operating conditions predict phosphorus recoveries greater than 99%, based on existing process kinetic parameters and operating conditions employed in previously published studies. The overall rate of nutrient recovery depends on the saturation index of the precipitating solid, the available surface area for mass transfer and the feed rate of the limiting constituent ion. Under the conditions considered, the nutrient feed rate appears to be the limiting factor for precipitation. Simulations demonstrate that diurnal feed flow variations of ±50% have a small effect on the rate of nutrient recovery. Overall, the study shows that valuable insights are gained in relation to process performance predictions, which should lead to more confident process design, operation and control.
Modelling biological Cr(VI) reduction in aquifer microcosm column systems
Authors: Molokwane Pulane E. , Chirwa Evans M. N.
Published: June 2013

Several chrome processing facilities in South Africa release hexavalent chromium (Cr(VI)) into groundwater resources. Pump-and-treat remediation processes have been implemented at some of the sites but have not been successful in reducing contamination levels. The current study is aimed at developing an environmentally friendly, cost-effective and self-sustained biological method to curb the spread of chromium at the contaminated sites. An indigenous Cr(VI)-reducing mixed culture of bacteria was demonstrated to reduce high levels of Cr(VI) in laboratory samples. The effect of Cr(VI) on the removal rate was evaluated at concentrations up to 400 mg/L. Following the detailed evaluation of fundamental processes for biological Cr(VI) reduction, a predictive model for Cr(VI) breakthrough through aquifer microcosm reactors was developed. The reaction rate in batch followed non-competitive rate kinetics with a Cr(VI) inhibition threshold concentration of approximately 99 mg/L. This study evaluates the application of the kinetic parameters determined in the batch reactors to the continuous flow process. The model developed from advection–reaction rate kinetics in a porous media fitted best the effluent Cr(VI) concentration. The model was also used to elucidate the logistic nature of biomass growth in the reactor systems.
Alternatives for energy production in aerobic wastewater treatment facilities
Authors: Velasquez-Orta Sharon B.
Published: June 2013

Using technologies such as anaerobic digestion for energy generation from wastewater demands a change in infrastructure that several treatment works are not prepared to immediately implement. This works explores the use of energy production technologies to increase the sustainability of conventional aerobic wastewater treatment plants. The first option considered sludge (a by-product from wastewater treatment) as raw material for biodiesel production as Fatty Acid Methyl Esters (FAME). The second option consisted of the addition of microalgae during aerobic wastewater treatment and subsequent harvesting of combined microalgae–sludge to produce biodiesel. Results showed that microalgae were able to grow in aerobic wastewater treatment reactors, reaching maximum growth after 6 days. The use of microalgae did not statistically affect chemical oxygen demand removal but provided benefits on ammonia removal (100% removal vs 68 ± 9% when microalgae were not added). Activated sludge contained fewer lipids (13 ± 3%, by dry weight) than the microalgae–sludge mixture (20.8 ± 4.5%). Hence, FAME production when using microalgae–sludge was higher (51.12 ± 12 mg of FAME/g of dry microalgae–sludge) than when using activated sludge (25.6 ± 7 mg of FAME/g of dry activated sludge). This work showed that producing biodiesel from microalgae grown in conjunction with bacteria during aerobic wastewater treatment can reduce energy use and carbon emissions produced by 18.6 and 26.5%, respectively.
Granulation of biological flocs under elevated pressure: characteristics of granules
Authors: Liang Yang-Min , Chen Jie-Yuan , Marchesini Gaëtan , Li Chi-Wang , Chen Shiao-Shing
Published: June 2013

Aerobic granules (AG) have good settling ability and are relatively insensitive to the variation of organic loading rate. When sizes of granules become bigger, substrate and oxygen become limited in the granule core, leading to cell lysis and disintegration of granules. The higher the dissolved oxygen, the deeper the oxygen penetration inside AG. AG operated under elevated pressure might be a possible way to maintain long-term stability of granules. In this study, formation and characteristics of AG in the reactor operated under elevated high pressure (HP) and ambient pressure (AP) are investigated. Results show that both systems removed an average 95% of total organic carbon. Sludge volume index at 5 and 30 min settling times under HP are 35% smaller those under AP, indicating that HP granules have a better settling ability and a denser structure than AP granules. The granule size in the HP system is very uniform, while size distribution in the AP system is broader, indicating that the AP system contains flocculent sludge. Extracellular polymeric substances and polysaccharides (PS) are almost the same for HP and AP; however, exopolymeric protein (PN) is very different. PS/PN ratio for HP sludge is four times that of AP. The result is consistent with sludge settleability, which is improved with increasing PS/PN ratio.
Wastewater effluent characteristics from Moroccan textile industry
Authors: Mountassir Y. , Benyaich A. , Rezrazi M. , Berçot P. , Gebrati L.
Published: June 2013

The objectives of this work were to carry out a complete characterization of textile wastewater, resulting from a textile unit located in the Marrakesh region. A physico-chemical characterization has been performed, focused on organic and toxicological aspects. The cladoceran Daphnia magna was used as the sensor organism and lethal concentration as a criterion to measure the toxicity of textile wastewater. The physico-chemical and toxicological status of a local textile effluent showed considerable values limitation, when compared to the European Union standard limit and Moroccan guide level and other studies. In view of those characteristics, the wastewater effluent from the textile industry should be considered to be treated before discharge to the environment.
Enhancement of waste activated sludge anaerobic digestion by a novel chemical free acid/alkaline pretreatment using electrolysis
Authors: Charles W. , Ng B. , Cord-Ruwisch R. , Cheng L. , Ho G. , Kayaalp A.
Published: June 2013

Anaerobic digestion of waste activated sludge (WAS) is relatively poor due to hydrolysis limitations. Acid and alkaline pretreatments are effective in enhancing hydrolysis leading to higher methane yields. However, chemical costs often prohibit full-scale application. In this study, 12 V two-chamber electrolysis using an anion exchange membrane alters sludge pH without chemical dosing. pH dropped from 6.9 to 2.5 in the anode chamber and increased to 10.1 in the cathode chamber within 15 h. The volatile suspended solids solubilisation of WAS was 31.1% in the anode chamber and 34.0% in the cathode chamber. As a result, dissolved chemical oxygen demand increased from 164 to 1,787 mg/L and 1,256 mg/L in the anode and cathode chambers, respectively. Remixing of sludge from the two chambers brought the pH back to 6.5, hence no chemical neutralisation was required prior to anaerobic digestion. Methane yield during anaerobic digestion at 20 d retention time was 31% higher than that of untreated sludge. An energy balance assessment indicated that the non-optimised process could approximately recover the energy (electricity) expended in the electrolysis process. With suitable optimisation of treatment time and voltages, significant energy savings would be expected in addition to the benefit of decreased sludge volume.
Removal characteristics of retinoic acids and 4-oxo-retinoic acids in wastewater by activated sludge treatment
Authors: Inoue D. , Sawada K. , Wada Y. , Sei K. , Ike M.
Published: June 2013

Retinoic acid (RA) receptor (RAR) agonists are potential teratogens to various vertebrates. Their contamination has been detected in municipal wastewater in different countries. This study involved field investigations and laboratory batch treatment experiments to elucidate the removal characteristics by activated sludge treatment of RAs (all-trans RA and 13-cis RA) and 4-oxo-RAs (4-oxo-all-trans RA and 4-oxo-13-cis RA), which were identified as major RAR agonists in municipal wastewater. Results obtained in this study show that currently employed activated sludge treatments can remove RAs, 4-oxo-RAs and overall RAR agonist contamination effectively from municipal wastewater in general, although high RAR agonistic activity might sometimes remain in the effluent. Laboratory experiments revealed that RAs were removed rapidly from the aqueous phase by adsorption to the sludge, after which they were removed further by biological and/or chemical degradation. Aside from adsorption to the sludge, 4-oxo-RAs were also apparently removed by biological and chemical degradation. Biodegradation contributed greatly to the removal. Results of additional experiments indicated that novel non-identifiable RAR agonists can occur through the biodegradation of 4-oxo-RAs by activated sludge and that they can persist for a long period.
Considerations in Starting a Patient with Advanced Frailty on Dialysis
Authors: Swidler Mark
Published: June 2013

Nephrologists have focused on the uremic syndrome as an indication for dialysis. The elderly frail renal patient approaching ESRD represents a complex biologic system that is already failing. This patient phenotype exhibits progressive geriatric disabilities and dependence interspersed with shrinking periods of stability regardless of whether dialysis is started. Consequently, the frail renal patient faces challenging treatment choices underpinned by ethical tensions. Identifying the advanced frail renal patient and optimizing the shared decision-making process will enable him or her to make well informed choices based on an understanding of his or her overall condition and personal values and preferences. This approach will also permit nephrologists to fulfill their ethical obligations to respect patient autonomy, promote patient benefit, and minimize patient harm.
Kinetics of metribuzin degradation by colloidal manganese dioxide in absence and presence of surfactants
Authors: Qamruzzaman  , Nasar Abu
Published: June 2013

The kinetics of the degradation of metribuzin by water-soluble colloidal MnO2 in acidic medium (HClO4) were studied spectrophotometrically in the absence and presence of surfactants. The experiments were performed under pseudo-first-order reaction conditions in respect of MnO2. The degradation was observed to be of the first order in respect of MnO2 while of fractional order for both metribuzin and HClO4. The rate constant for the degradation of metribuzin was observed to decrease as the concentration of MnO2 increased. The anionic surfactant, sodium dodecyl sulphate (SDS), was observed to be ineffective whereas the non-ionic surfactant, Triton X-100 (TX-100), accelerated the reaction rate. However, the cationic surfactant, cetyltrimethyl ammonium bromide (CTAB), caused flocculation with oppositely-charged colloidal MnO2; hence further study was not possible. The catalytic effect of TX-100 was discussed in the light of the available mathematical model. The kinetic data were exploited to generate the various activation parameters for the oxidative degradation of metribuzin by colloidal MnO2 in the absence as well as the presence of the non-ionic surfactant, TX-100.
Chemical composition and antioxidant activity of sulphated polysaccharides extracted from Fucus vesiculosus using different hydrothermal processes
Authors: Rodriguez-Jasso Rosa , Mussatto Solange , Pastrana Lorenzo , Aguilar Cristóbal , Teixeira José
Published: June 2013

Sulphated polysaccharides (SP) were extracted from Fucus vesiculosus seaweed by using two different hydrothermal processes: microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) and autohydrolysis (AH). The extraction yields, chemical composition, and antioxidant activity of the polysaccharides extracted were determined and compared. Although both processes afforded SP with similar yields (18.2 mass % and 16.5 mass %, for MAE and AH, respectively) and l-fucose as the main monosaccharide, the heterogeneous structure of the polysaccharide recovered was significantly affected by the AH process. The SP obtained by MAE contained 53.8 mole % of fucose, 35.3 mole % of xylose, and 10.8 mole % of galactose; while the SP obtained by AH was composed of 76.8 mole % of fucose and 23.2 mole % of galactose. Both samples presented comparable values of antioxidant activity by the di(phenyl)-(2,4,6-trinitrophenyl)iminoazanium (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl, DPPH), 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulphonic acid) (ABTS), and lipid oxidation inhibition methods, but the polysaccharide obtained by AH exhibited a higher antioxidant potential by the differential pulse voltammetry technique. This study demonstrates that the chemical composition and antioxidant activity of SP obtained from F. vesiculosus vary according to the process used for their extraction. However, the SP obtained by MAE or AH both have the potential for use as natural antioxidants in industrial applications.
A new organically templated magnesium sulfate: structure, spectroscopic analysis, and thermal behaviour
Authors: Hassan Dhouha , Rekik Walid , Naïli Houcine , Mhiri Tahar
Published: June 2013

A new magnesium sulfate templated by 2-methylpiperazine, (C5H14N2)[Mg(H2O)6](SO4)2, was prepared by the slow evaporation method. The obtained crystals were investigated by the Raman and FTIR spectroscopy and crystallographically characterised by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. The compound crystallises in the monoclinic system, space group P21/n. Supramolecular network of this hybrid material consists of Mg2+ cations octahedrally coordinated by six water molecules, sulfate tetrahedra and protonated and disordered diamine linked together by two types of hydrogen bonds: OW—H…O and N—H…O. Dehydration of the title compound takes place in three steps. Thermal decomposition of the anhydrous phase consists in the loss of the organic moiety and one sulfate group leading to the formation of magnesium sulfate.
Deep-Water Tardigrada of the Istanbul Strait’S (Bosporus) Outlet Area of the Black Sea
Authors: Kharkevych Kh. O. , Sergeeva N. G.
Published: June 2013

The results of investigations of tardigrades (2009-2010) in the Bosporus outlet area of the Black Sea are represented. For the first time two species of tardigrades Dipodarctus subterraneus (Renaud-Debyser, 1959) and Tanarctus ramazzottii (Renaud-Mornant, 1975) are recorded for the Black Sea. Tardigrades are registered on 4 stations at depths range 88-250 m. Average abundance of tardigrades widely varied from 141 to 11 440 ind./m2. The vertical distribution of tardigrades in the sediments was analyzed: most specimens (up to 98 %) found in the top 0-1 cm sediment layer.
Comparative Morphology of Dendrocometes Paradoxus (Ciliophora, Suctorea) from Two Distant Regions (Ukraine And Mexico) and Different Host Species
Authors: Dovgal I. V. , Mayén-Estrada R.
Published: June 2013

Comparative analysis of Dendrocometes paradoxus Stein, 1852 cell morphology from various gammarid amphipod species in different regions of Ukraine, and those attached to several host body parts of Hyalella azteca collected in two Mexican lakes, was carried out in order to demonstrate the morphological variability, due to the hosts species or their geographical distribution. For hosts species and corporal distribution, no significant differences between the two populations were shown. As the result, it was found the suctorians common for amphipod crustaceans from Ukraine and Mexico all are conspecific and belong to D. paradoxus.
Outcomes of cranioplasty following decompressive craniectomy in the pediatric population
Authors: Rocque Brandon G. , Amancherla Kaushik , Lew Sean M. , Lam Sandi
Published: June 2013

Cranioplasty is routinely performed following decompressive craniectomy in both adult and pediatric populations. In adults, this procedure is associated with higher rates of complications than is elective cranial surgery. This study is a review of the literature describing risk factors for complications after cranioplasty surgery in pediatric patients. A systematic search of PubMed, Cochrane, and SCOPUS databases was undertaken. Articles were selected based on their titles and abstracts. Only studies that focused on a pediatric population were included; case reports were excluded. Studies in which the authors assessed bone flap storage method, timing of cranioplasty, material used (synthetic vs autogenous), skull defect size, and/or complication rates (bone resorption and surgical site infection) were selected for further analysis. Eleven studies that included a total of 441 cranioplasties performed in the pediatric population are included in this review.

The findings are as follows: 1) Based on analysis of pooled data, using cryopreserved bone flaps during cranioplasty may lead to a higher rate of bone resorption and lower rate of infection than using bone flaps stored at room temperature. 2) In 3 of 4 articles describing the effect of time between craniectomy and cranioplasty on complication rate, the authors found no significant effect, while in 1 the authors found that the incidence of bone resorption was significantly lower in children who had undergone early cranioplasty. Pooling of data was not possible for this analysis. 3) There are insufficient data to assess the effect of cranioplasty material on complication rate when considering only cranioplasties performed to repair decompressive craniectomy defects. However, when considering cranioplasties performed for any indication, those in which freshly harvested autograft is used may have a lower rate of resorption than those in which stored autograft is used. 4) There is no appreciable effect of craniectomy defect size or patient age on complication rate.

There is a paucity of articles describing outcomes and complications following cranioplasty in children and adolescents. However, based on the studies examined in this systematic review, there are reasons to suspect that method of flap preservation, timing of surgery, and material used may be significant. Larger prospective and retrospective studies are needed to shed more light on this important issue.
Repeated cyst formation in a patient with leukoencephalopathy, cerebral calcifications, and cysts: effectiveness of stereotactic aspiration with Ommaya reservoir placement
Authors: Ooba Hiroshi , Abe Tatsuya , Hisamitsu Yoshinori , Fujiki Minoru
Published: June 2013

The combination of leukoencephalopathy, cerebral calcifications, and cysts (LCC) constitutes a rare cerebral disorder characterized by distinctive neuroradiological and clinical findings. Twenty-eight cases of LCC have been reported. Surgery is usually required to treat progressively expanding cysts, but surgical strategies have been varied.

The authors present the case of a patient who underwent 4 surgical procedures for repeated cyst formation. The first operation was performed for the removal of a cyst and to make a histopathological diagnosis. The second and third operations were performed to treat de novo cysts. The fourth operation was performed to treat a recurrence.

This is the first reported case of LCC in which it was necessary to perform surgery 4 times, in large part due to de novo cyst formation. It provides evidence that multiple cysts may develop in these patients and that several surgical operations may be needed to treat LCC. Stereotactic aspiration with Ommaya reservoir placement is an appropriate procedure for this condition because it is less invasive and more repeatable than open surgery.
Cavernous malformations of the basal ganglia in children
Authors: Gross Bradley A. , Smith Edward R. , Scott R. Michael
Published: June 2013

Object

Cavernous malformations (CMs) of the basal ganglia are relatively rare lesions that can lead to considerable neurological impairment because of their eloquent location. The authors reviewed the clinical course and surgical outcome of a series of children with basal ganglia CMs.

Methods

The authors retrospectively reviewed the operative experience of the senior author (R.M.S.) and the 1997–2011 database of Boston Children's Hospital for children with CM of the basal ganglia (which includes CM of the caudate and/or lentiform nucleus and excludes CM of the thalamus). They evaluated baseline demographics, presenting signs, operative outcomes, and condition at long-term follow-up visits and compared these characteristics among patients who underwent surgery and those who were observed.

Results

Of 180 children with a diagnosis of CM, 11 (6%) had CM of the basal ganglia. The mean age at diagnosis was 9.3 years, and the male/female ratio was 1.8:1. Presenting signs were as follows: hemorrhage (8 children), incidental lesions (2), and seizures (1); 2 children had choreiform movement disorders. Treatment was observation or surgery. Observation was chosen for 5 children either because the lesions were asymptomatic (2 children) or because the risk for neurological dysfunction after attempted excision was believed to be high (3 children). These 5 children were observed over a combined total of 30.4 patient-years; none experienced neurological deterioration or symptomatic hemorrhage from their lesions. The other 6 children underwent microsurgical resection of the lesion because they were symptomatic from hemorrhage or increasing mass effect. All 6 of these children had hemorrhagic lesions, of which the smallest dimension was at least 1.5 cm. Of these 6 lesions, 5 were excised completely, and over a combined total of 46 patient-years of follow-up, no rebleeding or late neurological deterioration after surgery was reported.

Conclusions

In this patient population, the natural history of small and asymptomatic CMs of the basal ganglia was benign. The children with large (> 1.5 cm) symptomatic lesions underwent excision; neurological impairment was apparently minimal, and no hemorrhage or neurological deterioration occurred later.
Hippocampal Physiology, Structure and Function and the Neuroscience of Schizophrenia: A Unified Account of Declarative Memory Deficits, Working Memory Deficits and Schizophrenic Symptoms
Authors: Wible Cynthia
Published: June 2013

Memory impairment is a consistent feature of the schizophrenic syndrome. Hippocampal dysfunction has also been consistently demonstrated. This review will discuss neurophysiological and neuroanatomical aspects of memory formation and how they relate to memory impairment in schizophrenia. An understanding of the cellular physiology and connectivity of the hippocampus with other regions can also aid in understanding the relationship between schizophrenic declarative or relational memory deficits, working memory deficits and the clinical symptoms of the syndrome.
Ten Things You Should Know about the Dynamic Conditional Correlation Representation
Authors: Caporin Massimiliano , McAleer Michael
Published: June 2013

The purpose of the paper is to discuss ten things potential users should know about the limits of the Dynamic Conditional Correlation (DCC) representation for estimating and forecasting time-varying conditional correlations. The reasons given for caution about the use of DCC include the following: DCC represents the dynamic conditional covariances of the standardized residuals, and hence does not yield dynamic conditional correlations; DCC is stated rather than derived; DCC has no moments; DCC does not have testable regularity conditions; DCC yields inconsistent two step estimators; DCC has no asymptotic properties; DCC is not a special case of Generalized Autoregressive Conditional Correlation (GARCC), which has testable regularity conditions and standard asymptotic properties; DCC is not dynamic empirically as the effect of news is typically extremely small; DCC cannot be distinguished empirically from diagonal Baba, Engle, Kraft and Kroner (BEKK) in small systems; and DCC may be a useful filter or a diagnostic check, but it is not a model.
Forecasting Value-at-Risk Using High-Frequency Information
Authors: Huang Huiyu , Lee Tae-Hwy
Published: June 2013

in the prediction of quantiles of daily Standard&Poor’s 500 (S&P 500) returns we consider how to use high-frequency 5-minute data. We examine methods that incorporate the high frequency information either indirectly, through combining forecasts (using forecasts generated from returns sampled at different intraday interval), or directly, through combining high frequency information into one model. We consider subsample averaging, bootstrap averaging, forecast averaging methods for the indirect case, and factor models with principal component approach, for both direct and indirect cases. We show that in forecasting the daily S&P 500 index return quantile (Value-at-Risk or VaR is simply the negative of it), using high-frequency information is beneficial, often substantially and particularly so, in forecasting downside risk. Our empirical results show that the averaging methods (subsample averaging, bootstrap averaging, forecast averaging), which serve as different ways of forming the ensemble average from using high-frequency intraday information, provide an excellent forecasting performance compared to using just low-frequency daily information.
Seed Size, the Only Factor Positively Affecting Direct Seeding Success in an Abandoned Field in Quebec, Canada
Authors: St-Denis Annick , Messier Christian , Kneeshaw Daniel
Published: June 2013

Direct tree seeding is potentially an economical technique for restoring forests on abandoned fields. However, the success of tree establishment depends on many factors related to species and seed characteristics, environmental conditions, competition and predation. We compared seedling emergence, survival and growth of six tree species of different seed sizes in a forest restoration project of abandoned fields. Species were seeded in plots with and without herbaceous vegetation and with and without protection from bird and mammal predation. Yellow birch (Betula alleghaniensis) did not emerge in all treatments, paper birch (Betula papyrifera) and tamarack (Larix laricina) had a seedling emergence rate lower than 1%, and sugar maple (Acer saccharum) had a low overall emergence rate of 6%. Seedling emergence reached 57% for northern red oak (Quercus rubra) and 34% for red pine (Pinus resinosa), but survival of oak after one year was much higher (92%) than pine seedlings (16%). Overall, protection from birds and mammals and elimination of the herbaceous vegetation cover had no detectable effects on seedling emergence, survival and height. Nonetheless, red oak seedlings growing in the presence of vegetation had a smaller diameter and shoot biomass and a larger specific leaf area. We conclude that only large seeded species, such as oak, should be used for forest restoration of abandoned fields by direct seeding in our region.
Impact of Chlorine Dioxide Gas Sterilization on Nosocomial Organism Viability in a Hospital Room
Authors: Lowe John , Gibbs Shawn , Iwen Peter , Smith Philip , Hewlett Angela
Published: June 2013

To evaluate the ability of ClO2 to decontaminate pathogens known to cause healthcare-associated infections in a hospital room strains of Acinetobacter baumannii, Escherichia coli, Enterococcus faecalis, Mycobacterium smegmatis, and Staphylococcus aureus were spot placed in duplicate pairs at 10 sites throughout a hospital room and then exposed to ClO2 gas. Organisms were collected and evaluated for reduction in colony forming units following gas exposure. Six sterilization cycles with varied gas concentrations, exposure limits, and relative humidity levels were conducted. Reductions in viable organisms achieved ranged from 7 to 10-log reductions. Two sterilization cycles failed to produce complete inactivation of organisms placed in a bathroom with the door closed. Reductions of organisms in the bathroom ranged from 6-log to 10-log reductions. Gas leakage between hospital floors did not occur; however, some minor gas leakage from the door of hospital room was measured which was subsequently sealed to prevent further leakage. Novel technologies for disinfection of hospital rooms require validation and safety testing in clinical environments. Gaseous ClO2 is effective for sterilizing environmental contamination in a hospital room. Concentrations of ClO2 up to 385 ppm were safely maintained in a hospital room with enhanced environmental controls.
Secondary Metabolites from Penicillium pinophilum SD-272, a Marine Sediment-Derived Fungus
Authors: Wang Ming-Hui , Li Xiao-Ming , Li Chun-Shun , Ji Nai-Yun , Wang Bin-Gui
Published: June 2013

Two new secondary metabolites, namely, pinodiketopiperazine A (1) and 6,7-dihydroxy-3-methoxy-3-methylphthalide (2), along with alternariol 2,4-dimethyl ether (3) and l-5-oxoproline methyl ester (4), which were isolated from a natural source for the first time but have been previously synthesized, were characterized from the marine sediment-derived fungus Penicillium pinophilum SD-272. In addition, six known metabolites (5–10) were also identified. Their structures were elucidated by analysis of the NMR and mass spectroscopic data. The absolute configuration of compound 1 was determined by experimental and calculated ECD spectra. Compound 2 displayed potent brine shrimp (Artemia salina) lethality with LD50 11.2 μM.
Tolerance for High Flavanol Cocoa Powder in Semisweet Chocolate
Authors: Harwood Meriel , Ziegler Gregory , Hayes John
Published: June 2013

Endogenous polyphenolic compounds in cacao impart both bitter and astringent characteristics to chocolate confections. While an increase in these compounds may be desirable from a health perspective, they are generally incongruent with consumer expectations. Traditionally, chocolate products undergo several processing steps (e.g., fermentation and roasting) that decrease polyphenol content, and thus bitterness. The objective of this study was to estimate group rejection thresholds for increased content of cocoa powder produced from under-fermented cocoa beans in a semisweet chocolate-type confection. The group rejection threshold was equivalent to 80.7% of the non-fat cocoa solids coming from the under-fermented cocoa powder. Contrary to expectations, there were no differences in rejection thresholds when participants were grouped based on their self-reported preference for milk or dark chocolate, indicating that these groups react similarly to an increase in high cocoa flavanol containing cocoa powder.
Services Evolution of Two Groundwater Dependent Wetland Ecosystems in the “Mancha Húmeda” Biosphere Reserve (Spain)
Authors: De la Hera África , Villarroya Fermín
Published: June 2013

A wetland that does not comply with the ecological standards of EU Directive 2000/60/EC cannot properly provide its services. This paper presents a review of the criteria for wetland assessment based on the Spanish experience in two specific Ramsar areas: the Tablas de Daimiel and the Ruidera Lakes. The aim of this article is to consider and promote a holistic awareness of the hydrological cycle and of the wetland area ecosystems within it. The methodology developed under the umbrella of the UNESCO project IGCP 604 is applied to describe the groundwater-wetland-human interrelationship. This methodology was chosen for two reasons: (a) it is designed to assess the services the wetlands provide; (b) it focuses on groundwater dependent wetlands such as the two cases presented here. In each case, although to a different extent, agricultural activities and water management have led to important changes in the services provided by the two ecosystems.
Rate-Gyro-Integral Constraint for Ambiguity Resolution in GNSS Attitude Determination Applications
Authors: Zhu Jiancheng , Li Tao , Wang Jinling , Hu Xiaoping , Wu Meiping
Published: June 2013

In the field of Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) attitude determination, the constraints usually play a critical role in resolving the unknown ambiguities quickly and correctly. Many constraints such as the baseline length, the geometry of multi-baselines and the horizontal attitude angles have been used extensively to improve the performance of ambiguity resolution. In the GNSS/Inertial Navigation System (INS) integrated attitude determination systems using low grade Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU), the initial heading parameters of the vehicle are usually worked out by the GNSS subsystem instead of by the IMU sensors independently. However, when a rotation occurs, the angle at which vehicle has turned within a short time span can be measured accurately by the IMU. This measurement will be treated as a constraint, namely the rate-gyro-integral constraint, which can aid the GNSS ambiguity resolution. We will use this constraint to filter the candidates in the ambiguity search stage. The ambiguity search space shrinks significantly with this constraint imposed during the rotation, thus it is helpful to speeding up the initialization of attitude parameters under dynamic circumstances. This paper will only study the applications of this new constraint to land vehicles. The impacts of measurement errors on the effect of this new constraint will be assessed for different grades of IMU and current average precision level of GNSS receivers. Simulations and experiments in urban areas have demonstrated the validity and efficacy of the new constraint in aiding GNSS attitude determinations.
Extending the GMR Current Measurement Range with a Counteracting Magnetic Field
Authors: Poon Tin , Tse Norman , Lau Ricky
Published: June 2013

Traditionally, current transformers are often used for current measurement in low voltage (LV) electrical networks. They have a large physical size and are not designed for use with power electronic circuits. Semiconductor-based current sensing devices such as the Hall sensor and Giant Magnetoresistive (GMR) sensor are advantageous in terms of small size, high sensitivity, wide frequency range, low power consumption, and relatively low cost. Nevertheless, the operational characteristics of these devices limit their current measurement range. In this paper, a design based on using counteracting magnetic field is introduced for extending the GMR current measurement range from 9 A (unipolar) to ±45 A. A prototype has been implemented to verify the design and the linear operation of the circuit is demonstrated by experimental results. A microcontroller unit (MCU) is used to provide an automatic scaling function to optimize the performance of the proposed current sensor.