bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Real-time clinical clutter reduction in combined epi-optoacoustic and ultrasound imaging
Authors: Jaeger Michael , Gashi Kujtim , Akarçay Hidayet Günhan , Held Gerrit , Peeters Sara , Petrosyan Tigran , Preisser Stefan , Gruenig Michael , Frenz Martin 
Published: September 2014

AbstractFlexible imaging of the human body, a requirement for broad clinical application, is obtained by direct integration of optoacoustic (OA) imaging with echo ultrasound (US) in a multimodal epi-illumination system. Up to date, successful deep epi-OA imaging is difficult to achieve owing to clutter. Clutter signals arise from optical absorption in the region of tissue irradiation and strongly reduce contrast and imaging depth. Recently, we developed a displacement-compensated averaging (DCA) technique for clutter reduction based on the clutter decorrelation that occurs when palpating the tissue. To gain first clinical experience on the practical value of DCA, we implemented this technique in a combined clinical OA and US imaging system. Our experience with freehand scanning of human volunteers reveals that real-time feedback on the clutter-reduction outcome is a key factor for achieving superior contrast and imaging depth.
Effect of Preheated Jatropha Oil and Jatropha Oil Methyl Ester with Producer Gas on Diesel Engine Performance
Authors: C. Nayak, B. P. Pattanaik and S. K. Nayak  
Published: September 2014

The present experimental study demonstrates the performance and emission characteristics of a single cylinder dual fuel diesel engine with producer gas as the primary fuel and diesel, preheated Jatropha oil and Jatropha oil methyl ester as injected fuels. In order to reduce the viscosity of Jatropha oil, a shell and tube type heat exchanger was designed and fabricated for preheating Jatropha oil using engine exhaust gas. The performance parameters, such as brake specific fuel consumption, brake thermal efficiency and exhaust gas temperature, have shown improved results with baseline diesel and producer gas, whereas the above parameters are very close to other test fuels under different loading conditions. All the emission parameters are found to be on the higher side for preheated oil- compared to diesel-producer gas dual fuel operation at all load conditions. With Jatropha oil methyl ester-producer gas dual fuel operation, however, emission parameters such as CO2, smoke and NOx are higher compared to diesel-producer gas operation. The smoke emission for preheated Jatropha oil-producer gas dual fuel operation is approximately 60% higher than that of diesel-producer gas operation at full load. From the present experimental investigation it may be concluded that alternative fuel combinations such as preheated Jatropha oil-producer gas and Jatropha oil methyl ester-producer gas can successfully replace diesel as the major fuel in diesel engines with little modification. The present paper also recommends further investigation to improve fuel properties and in-cylinder combustion phenomena of preheated Jatropha oil and its methyl ester before use in a diesel engine.
Association between serum cystatin C and diabetic peripheral neuropathy: a cross-sectional study of a Chinese type 2 diabetic population
Authors: Hu Yanyun , Liu Fang , Shen Jing , Zeng Hui , Li Lianxi , Zhao Jun , Zhao Jungong , Lu Fengdi , Jia Weiping 
Published: September 2014

ObjectiveSerum cystatin C (CysC) is a sensitive marker of kidney function and recent studies have shown that CysC plays a critical role in degenerative diseases in both the central and the peripheral nervous systems. The aim of this study was to explore the relationship between serum CysC and diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) in patients with type 2 diabetes.MethodsIn total, 937 type 2 diabetic patients were enrolled in this cross-sectional study. Serum CysC concentration was measured by immunoturbidimetry. DPN was evaluated by neurological symptoms, neurological signs, neurothesiometer, and electromyogram.ResultsSerum CysC levels were significantly higher in DPN patients (1.3 (1.1–1.5) mg/l) compared with patients with signs of DPN (1.1 (0.9–1.3) mg/l,P<0.001) and non-DPN patients (1.0 (0.9–1.3) mg/l,P<0.001). Multiple regression analysis revealed that DPN was associated with age, diabetes duration, HbA1c, and serum CysC. Spearman's correlation analysis showed that serum CysC was closely related with age, sex, diabetes duration, hypertension, glomerular infiltration rate, and serum creatinine (Cr) level. The patients were divided into quartiles according to the serum CysC levels. Compared with quartile 1 (referent), the risk of DPN was significantly higher in quartile 2 (odds ratio (OR), 1.753; 95% CI, 1.055–2.912;P<0.05), quartile 3 (OR, 2.463; 95% CI, 1.445–4.917;P<0.01), and quartile 4 (OR, 5.867; 95% CI, 2.075–16.589;P<0.01). Receiver-operating characteristic analysis revealed that the optimal cutoff point of serum CysC to indicate DPN was 1.25 mg/l in male patients and 1.05 mg/l in female patients. High serum CysC level indicated a onefold higher risk of DPN.ConclusionsHigh serum CysC level is closely associated with DPN and may be a potential biomarker for DPN in type 2 diabetic patients.
They Moved the Earth: The Slaves Who Built the Tennessee State Capitol
Authors: Broderick IV Thomas Joseph 
Published: September 2014

By utilizing primary and secondary source material, this essay attempts to examine both the use of slavery during the construction of the Tennessee State Capitol and the lives of the slaves involved. Though written histories on the Capitol agree that slavery was used at the construction site, no further details are given. The goal of this essay is to bring to light the full story of the group of slaves that were involved in the construction.
In the spring of 1846, fifteen slaves, all men, were loaned to the state government by A.G. Payne, a Nashville stone mason. For nearly a year they carved out the Capitol’s cellar, their skilled labor worth nearly twice as much as the unskilled labor of free men. These slaves broke through tons of limestone rock, carting it away after digging.
When construction required skilled stonemasons, the slaves returned to their master’s properties. For fourteen years up until Payne’s death, they worked at both a farm and brick factory, the monotony briefly punctuated by being hired out. Due to debts incurred by Payne just before his death, the slaves were to be sold. The Civil War imminent, the slaves remained with Payne’s widow until their emancipation.
After emancipation, the records on all but three of the men stop completely. Out of the three remaining men, the children of one were prospering. They had been taught to read. The government their father had helped physically build was finally working for their interests.
Risk and Regulation: Methylmercury Exposure and Fish Consumption
Authors: Gendzier Jonathan M 
Published: September 2014

Exposure to organic mercury (methylmercury) occurs almost universally due to ingestion via
contaminated fish and shellfish tissue. Ultimate sources of mercury consist of air release by domestic
industrial combustion, mining, and international mercury emissions transported via a global cycle.
Deposition of mercury from air to surface waters results in methylation to organic methylmercury and
bioaccumulation in the aquatic food web.
Health effects from methylmercury exposure consist mainly of neurological and
neurodevelopmental effects, with fetuses particularly sensitive. Thus regulation of methylmercury
exposure has concentrated on acceptable exposure levels and reference doses aimed toward protecting
developing fetuses.
The risk of methylmercury exposure in humans is regulated largely by the federal government,
especially by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The EPA imposes limits on mercury emissions and seeks to research methylmercury levels in fish and humans. The EPA sets a reference dose for methylmercury exposure. The FDA conducts uses date on methylmercury levels in fish to advise consumers on how to make informed decisions regarding fish consumption.
There are numerous shortcoming to government regulation of this issue. Further scientific
research, improved implementation of available data and scientific conclusions, and improved public
communication of risk would all lead to more effective treatment of the risk of methylmercury
exposure via ingestion of fish and shellfish. This could include more effective monitoring systems of
human and fish methylmercury levels, research into the process of bioaccumulation, and
implementation of stricter fish labeling standards, as well as research into higher-risk subpopulations
allowing for targeted standards and recommendations.
Gender-based Persecution and US Asylum Policy
Authors: Chaffin Samuel Jack 
Published: September 2014

Abstract
Over the past decades, gender-based persecution has moved into the forefront of immigration policy debate in the US. Beginning in the 1980s, recognition of the special circumstances women refugees face has slowly dawned on policy-makers and academics alike. The discussion of women refugees’ rights comes at a pivotal historical moment in US history; women now make up the majority of refugees, but restrictions have become stricter since 9/11. The current process, designed with the standard of the male refugee in mind, adds extra difficulties for female refugees making their asylum claims and disproportionately penalizes them for an array of reasons. Recent court cases indicate indecision among US justices about whether or not gender-based persecution constitutes legitimate grounds for admittance. The international implications of progressive policy change show the potential for both negative political consequences and positive human rights contributions on a global scale. To remedy the current stalemate in the fight to include gender-based persecution in asylum law, the United States could look to Canada for a progressive model applied to a similar legal system.
Reality and Existentialism in House of Leaves
Authors: Scarano Matthew Scott , Krause Jennifer Ann 
Published: September 2014

House of Leaves, by Mark Z. Danielewski, is a novel first published in 2000 that has since developed notoriety in literary circles for its arguably unique experimentation with a multi-layered plot, varied visual typography, and multi-media format. Despite being widely read and influential over the past decade, little scholarly analysis has been done on House of Leaves. As House of Leaves could represent an entire new genre of literature, it is important that we understand its themes and the ways in which various writerly techniques function within the novel.
In this paper, I analyze House of Leaves through an existential lens, specifically utilizing the ideas of Jean-Paul Sartre and Albert Camus to examine the psyche of one of the novel’s main characters, Johnny Truant. In addition to primary sources by Danielewski, Sartre and Camus, I employ a 2002 analysis of House of Leaves by Katherine N. Hayles to aid my research. I conclude that Johnny’s story, and House of Leaves as a whole, breaks down traditional notions of reality, but retains existential hope for individuals who are able to find a purpose in life, even if that “purpose” is necessarily subjective.
My analysis presents an original take on House of Leaves, and contains wider implications for future novels that emulate its experimental style. Past analyses have focused on post-modern aspects of House of Leaves, but I analyze it through an existential lens. Beyond adding to the body of work on House of Leaves, my existential take on an otherwise post-modern text may prove influential to analyses of other “post-modern” novels in the future.
Microalbuminuria in Healthy Adolescents: A Comparative Study at High Altitude and at Sea Level
Authors: Hurtado Abdias , Cancino Raquel , Figueroa Joel , Padilla Euclides , Morales Christian , Ortiz Irma , Sharma Shailendra , Johnson Richard J , Pando Jackeline 
Published: September 2014

Background :
High altitude is associated with hypobaric hypoxia and increased risk for microalbuminuria in adults. We hypothesized that healthy adolescents at higher altitude might have an increased frequency of microalbuminuria in comparison with a group of adolescents living at sea level.

Methods :
We evaluated the presence of microalbuminuria in adolescents at sea level (n=68, altitude 130 meters) and at high altitude (n=114, altitude 3200 meters) living in Peru. Each subject was evaluated for body mass index, Blood Pressure, microalbuminuria, proteinuria, hematuria and leukocyturia in a first morning urine sample. Subjects with a positive test for microalbuminuria underwent repeat testing one or two weeks after the initial screening.

Results :
Subjects at sea level and high altitude had similar age, weight, height and blood pressure (p=NS). Microalbuminuria without any other urinary abnormality, was higher in the first screening among adolescents residing at high altitude compared to those living at sea level (42 vs15, p: 0.0215). In the second screening the results were similar in both groups (31 vs 11, p: 0.0879).

Conclusion :
Persistent microalbuminuria was observed in more than one-quarter of adolescents living at high altitude. This study suggests that subtle renal injury may occur early in subjects living at high altitude.
Unfunded Public Pension Liabilities and Local Citizen Oversight
Authors: Rich Kevin T. , Zhang Jean X. 
Published: September 2014

SYNOPSIS
We examine whether unfunded public pension liabilities are associated with citizen oversight through legislative and electoral means in local governments. Our focus on municipal pension plans is timely and relevant, given the prevalence of underfunded pension plans and the GASB's recently issued statements on state and local pension reporting. Using a sample of 84 locally administered municipal defined benefit pension plans in 2009, we find evidence that the level of unfunded pension obligations is negatively associated with both provisions allowing direct citizen participation in the legislative process and electoral voter activism in the form of recent recall attempts. Overall, our empirical evidence is consistent with citizen oversight mechanisms playing an important role in the pension funding decisions of municipal governments.
JEL Classifications: G34; H55; H72.
Welcome to the Day-to-Day of Internal Auditors: How Do They Cope with Conflicts?
Authors: Roussy Mélanie 
Published: September 2014

SUMMARY
This paper proposes a “micro-level” analysis of the way in which internal auditors express role conflicts in their day-to-day practice and how they perceive, manage, and resolve them. From this perspective, I analyze real-life experiences described by 42 interviewed internal auditors. Using a theoretical lens specifically designed for this purpose, I highlight the complexity and magnitude of the role conflicts they experience during the internal audit process, along with the strategic and dynamic coping processes they mobilize, while remaining concretely grounded in their specific context. Thus, this study makes an original contribution to the development of new knowledge on internal auditing and concludes that internal auditors tend to lack independence and audit committee members often exercise disturbingly weak power (on the internal audit function), as compared to the top managers. Accordingly, this paper points to the difficulty of applying an idealized conception of independence and purist governance principles to practice. It also questions the appropriateness of considering internal auditing as a meaningful independent assurance device in operating the corporate governance “mosaic” (Cohen, Krishnamoorthy, and Wright 2002).
Rough I-Convergence
Authors: Dündar Erdinç , Çakan Celal 
Published: September 2014

Abstract
In this work, using the concept of I-convergence and using the concept of rough convergence, we introduced the notion of rough I-convergence and the set of rough I-limit points of a sequence and obtained two rough I-convergence criteria associated with this set. Later, we proved that this set is closed and convex. Finally, we examined the relations between the set of I-cluster points and the set of rough I-limit points of a sequence
On Lacunary p-Absolutely Summable Fuzzy Real-Valued Double Sequence Space
Authors: Dutta Amar Jyoti , Esi Ayhan , Tripathy Binod Chandra 
Published: September 2014

Abstract
In this article, we introduce the class of p-absolutely summable fuzzy real valued double sequence (2lp)F
θ We have studied some algebraic properties like solid, symmetric, convergence free, sequence algebra. Further, we establish some relation with the class of p-Cesàro summable double sequences and some other important inclusion results.
Solutions to the Quasistatic Problem from the theory of Inelastic Deformations with Linear Growth Condition
Authors: Glen Łukasz 
Published: September 2014

Abstract
This paper refers to standard models in the theory of inelastic deformations. We assume that non-linear inelastic constitutive function is of monotone type, that the growth condition holds and that the model is quasistatic. Initial, generic problem is transformed into an evolution equation in a maximal monotone field. Then we find solutions with very low regularity requirements of the forces acting on a body
Antimicrobial effect of an aqueous extract of Potentilla erecta rhizome
Authors: Synowiec Alicja , Gniewosz Małgorzata , Bączek Katarzyna , Przybył Jarosław L. 
Published: September 2014

Abstract

Potentilla erecta is a therapeutic plant used in folk medicine to treat inflammatory states, wounds and diseases of the alimentary tract. The results of the study reveal the effects of an aqueous extract of P. erecta rhizome on certain microorganisms occurring in food. The main components of the extract were catechins. The extract was shown to display an inhibiting effect against Gram-positive bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923 and Bacillus subtilis ATCC 6633, as well as against yeast such as Candida lipolitica KKP 322 and Hansenula anomala R 26. The extract did inhibit the growth of Gram-negative bacteria, however, no inhibiting effects were observed on moulds in the studied range of concentrations, i.e. 0.13 to 64 mg dry matter/ml.
Are All Quality Dimensions of Equal Importance when Measuring the Perceived Quality of Official Statistics? Evidence from Spain
Authors: Costa Alex , Garcıá Jaume , Raymond Josep Lluis 
Published: September 2014

Abstract
Quality has become the key concept in official statistics. There is a general consensus that we have to consider several components when assessing the quality of statistical information. Relevance, accuracy, timeliness, punctuality, comparability, coherence, accessibility and clarity are the dimensions most frequently mentioned. In this article we use regression analysis to evaluate the contribution of these different dimensions when assessing the overall quality of statistical products. We do this using the information collected in the structured consultation with users and experts from both inside and outside the Spanish Central Administration carried out by the Working Group of the Spanish High Council on Statistics, responsible for the preliminary draft of the proposals and recommendations of this council for the Spanish Multiannual Statistical Programme 2013-2016. We find that the abovementioned dimensions have different weights in the overall assessment of perceived quality (with accuracy and reliability having the highest weight, and relevance having the lowest) and that the structure differs between both types of users.
Microchilus campanensis (Orchidaceae), a new species from Panama
Authors: Kolanowska Marta 
Published: September 2014

Abstract A new species of Microchilus Presl, M. campanensis Kolan., is described from Panamanian material and illustrated. The new species differs from M. pedrojuanensis Ormerod in its spur shape, prominent epichile apical lobe, prominent floral bracts, and irregular apical margins of the petals and dorsal sepal. Information about its habitat and conservation status is provided.
Biochemical and haematological profile of pheasant hens during the laying period
Authors: Schumann J. , Bedanova I. , Voslarova E. , Hrabcakova P. , Chloupek J. , Pistekova V. 
Published: September 2014

Abstract
The present paper provides new experimental data on the biochemical and haematological profile of blood in pheasant hens, and points out the changes in both biochemical and haematological parameters that occur during the laying period. Significant effects of egg laying on both the biochemical and the haematological blood parameters of pheasant hens were found. Biochemical analyses revealed a significant increase in the metabolites cholesterol, uric acid, lactate, the enzyme aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and the minerals calcium and phosphorous, as well as a significant decrease in total protein, albumin and glucose in the course of the laying period. Haematological analyses revealed a significant increase in the count of leukocytes, lymphocytes, eosinophils, basophils and monocytes due to egg laying. In addition, the erythrocyte count and haemoglobin content significantly decreased in the middle of the laying period and then rebounded at the end of the laying period. The haematocrit content gradually decreased till the end of the laying period. All together, the results of this study underline the impact of the reproduction status of pheasant hens on basic blood parameters. The biochemical and haematological values presented in this study may be of help in assessing disease conditions in laying pheasant hens.
Detection of Echinococcus multilocularis in faeces by nested PCR with the use of diluted DNA samples
Authors: Karamon J. 
Published: September 2014

AbstractThe aim of this study was to choose the optimal variant of PCR examination of faeces to detect Echinococcus multilocularis infection which would allow to reduce the influence of different inhibitors in faeces. The investigation was carried out by comparison of 3 different methods of DNA isolation from faeces and different DNA dilutions used in PCR. Thirty five intestines of red foxes were used. Small intestines were examined by the sedimentation and counting technique (SCT). Faeces were collected from the rectum for PCR and flotation. DNA were isolated with the use of 3 different methods. Two methods were dedicated for faeces: method 1 (M1) - for larger samples and method 2 (M2) - for standard samples. The third method, method 3 (M3), was not dedicated for faeces. DNA samples were tested by nested PCR in 6 variants: not diluted (1/1) and 5 diluted (1/2.5, 1/5, 1/10. 1/20, 1/40). E. multilocularis was found by SCT in 18 from 35 (51.4%) intestines. Taenia-type eggs were detected only in 20.0% of faecal samples. In PCR the highest number of positive results (45.7%) were obtained during examination of DNA isolated by M1 method, and then 40.0% and 34.3%, respectively, for M2 and M3. In some samples positive results in PCR were obtained only in diluted DNA. For example, 8 from 12 positive samples isolated by M3 method gave the PCR negative results in non-diluted DNA and positive only after dilution 1:2.5, 1:10 or 1:20. Also 3 samples isolated by methods dedicated for stool gave positive results only after DNA dilution. The investigation has revealed that in copro-PCR for detection of E. multilocularis infection additional using of diluted DNA (besides non diluted) can avoid false negative results causing by PCR inhibition. In the best method of DNA isolation (M1), the use of non diluted DNA sample together with diluted in proportion 1:10 seems to be optimal.