bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A protocol for EBT3 radiochromic film dosimetry using reflection scanning
Authors: Papaconstadopoulos Pavlos , Hegyi Gyorgy , Seuntjens Jan , Devic Slobodan
Published: November 2014

Purpose:

To evaluate the performance of the EBT3 radiochromic film dosimetry system using reflection measurements and to suggest a calibration protocol for precise and accurate reflection film dosimetry.

Methods:

A set of 14 Gafchromic EBT3 film pieces were irradiated to various doses ranging from 0 to 8 Gy and subsequently scanned using both the reflection and transmission mode. Scanning resolution varied from 50 to 508 dpi (0.5–0.05 mm/pixel). Both the red and green color channels of scanned images were used to relate the film response to the dose. A sensitivity, uncertainty, and accuracy analysis was performed for all scanning modes and color channels. The total uncertainty, along with the fitting and experimental uncertainty components, was identified and analyzed. A microscope resolution target was used to evaluate possible resolution losses under reflection scanning. The calibration range was optimized for reflection scanning in the low (<2 Gy) and high (>2 Gy) dose regions based on the reported results.

Results:

Reflection scanning using the red channel exhibited the highest sensitivity among all modes, being up to 150% higher than transmission mode in the red channel for the lowest dose level. Furthermore, there was no apparent loss in resolution between the two modes. However, higher uncertainties and reduced accuracy were observed for the red channel under reflection mode, especially at dose levels higher than 2 Gy. These uncertainties were mainly attributed to saturation effects which were translated in poor fitting results. By restricting the calibration to the 0–2 Gy dose range, the situation is reversed and the red reflection mode was superior to the transmission mode. For higher doses, the green channel in reflection mode presented comparable results to the red transmission.

Conclusions:

A two‐color reflection scanning protocol can be suggested for EBT3 radiochromic film dosimetry using the red channel for doses less than 2 Gy and the green channel for higher doses. The precision and accuracy are significantly improved in the low dose region following such a protocol.
Dysbiosis and Alterations in Predicted Functions of the Subgingival Microbiome in Chronic Periodontitis
Authors: Kirst Mariana E. , Li Eric C. , Alfant Barnett , Chi Yueh-Yun , Walker Clay , Magnusson Ingvar , Wang Gary P.
Published: November 2014

Chronic periodontitis is an inflammatory disease of the periodontium affecting nearly 65 million adults in the United States. Changes in subgingival microbiota have long been associated with chronic periodontitis. Recent culture-independent molecular studies have revealed the immense richness and complexity of oral microbial communities. However, data sets across studies have not been directly compared, and whether the observed microbial variations are consistent across different studies is not known. Here, we used 16S rRNA sequencing to survey the subgingival microbiota in 25 subjects with chronic periodontal disease and 25 healthy controls and compared our data sets with those of three previously reported microbiome studies. Consistent with data from previous studies, our results demonstrate a significantly altered microbial community structure with decreased heterogeneity in periodontal disease. Comparison with data from three previously reported studies revealed that subgingival microbiota clustered by study. However, differences between periodontal health and disease were larger than the technical variations across studies. Using a prediction score and applying five different distance metrics, we observed two predominant clusters. One cluster was driven by
Fusobacterium
and
Porphyromonas
and was associated with clinically apparent periodontitis, and the second cluster was dominated by
Rothia
and
Streptococcus
in the majority of healthy sites. The predicted functional capabilities of the periodontitis microbiome were significantly altered. Genes involved in bacterial motility, energy metabolism, and lipopolysaccharide biosynthesis were overrepresented in periodontal disease, whereas genes associated with transporters, the phosphotransferase system, transcription factors, amino acid biosynthesis, and glycolysis/gluconeogenesis were enriched in healthy controls. These results demonstrate significant alterations in microbial composition and function in periodontitis and suggest genes and metabolic pathways associated with periodontal disease.
Molecular Toolbox for Genetic Manipulation of the Stalked Budding Bacterium Hyphomonas neptunium
Authors: Jung Alexandra , Eisheuer Sabrina , Cserti Emöke , Leicht Oliver , Strobel Wolfgang , Möll Andrea , Schlimpert Susan , Kühn Juliane , Thanbichler Martin
Published: November 2014

The alphaproteobacterium
Hyphomonas neptunium
proliferates by a unique budding mechanism in which daughter cells emerge from the end of a stalk-like extension emanating from the mother cell body. Studies of this species so far have been hampered by the lack of a genetic system and of molecular tools allowing the regulated expression of target genes. Based on microarray analyses, this work identifies two
H. neptunium
promoters that are activated specifically by copper and zinc. Functional analyses show that they have low basal activity and a high dynamic range, meeting the requirements for use as a multipurpose expression system. To facilitate their application, the two promoters were incorporated into a set of integrative plasmids, featuring a choice of two different selection markers and various fluorescent protein genes. These constructs enable the straightforward generation and heavy metal-inducible synthesis of fluorescent protein fusions in
H. neptunium
, thereby opening the door to an in-depth analysis of polar growth and development in this species.
Hypertension overrides the protective effect of female hormones on the development of aortic aneurysm secondary to Alk5 deficiency via ERK activation
Authors: Schmit Bradley M. , Yang Pu , Fu Chunhua , DeSart Kenneth , Berceli Scott A. , Jiang Zhihua
Published: November 2014

The prevalence of aortic aneurysm is five times higher in men than women among the general population. Similar sexual dimorphism also exists in syndromic aortic aneurysms triggered by TGF-β signaling disorders. To understand the responsible mechanisms, we developed an animal model where inducible deletion of the type I TGF-β receptor, Alk5, specifically in smooth muscle cells ( Alk5 iko) causes spontaneous aortic aneurysm formation. This model recapitulated an extreme scenario of the dimorphism in aortic aneurysm development between genders. In a comparative experiment, all Alk5 iko males ( n = 42) developed aortic aneurysms and 26% of them died prematurely from aortic rupture. In contrast, the Alk5 iko females ( n = 14) presented only a subclinical phenotype characteristic of scarcely scattered elastin breaks. Removal of male hormones via orchiectomy ( n = 7) resulted in only minimal influence on aortic pathology. However, reduction of female hormones via ovariectomy ( n = 15) increased the phenotypic penetrance from zero to 53%. Finally, an elevation of systolic blood pressure by 30 points unmasked the subclinical phenotype of Alk5 iko females ( n = 17) to 59%. This exaggerated phenotypic penetrance was coupled with an early intensification of ERK signaling, a molecular signature that correlated to 100% phenotypic penetrance in normotensive Alk5 iko males. In conclusion, aortic aneurysm induced by Alk5 iko exhibits dimorphic incidence between genders with females less susceptible to aortic disease. This sexual dimorphism is partially the result from the protective effects of female hormones. Hypertension, a known risk factor for aortic aneurysm, is able to break the female sex protective effects through mechanisms associated with enhanced ERK activity.
Vasculopathy and pulmonary hypertension in sickle cell disease
Authors: Potoka Karin P. , Gladwin Mark T.
Published: November 2014

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is an autosomal recessive disorder in the gene encoding the β-chain of hemoglobin. Deoxygenation causes the mutant hemoglobin S to polymerize, resulting in rigid, adherent red blood cells that are entrapped in the microcirculation and hemolyze. Cardinal features include severe painful crises and episodic acute lung injury, called acute chest syndrome. This population, with age, develops chronic organ injury, such as chronic kidney disease and pulmonary hypertension. A major risk factor for developing chronic organ injury is hemolytic anemia, which releases red blood cell contents into the circulation. Cell free plasma hemoglobin, heme, and arginase 1 disrupt endothelial function, drive oxidative and inflammatory stress, and have recently been referred to as erythrocyte damage-associated molecular pattern molecules (eDAMPs). Studies suggest that in addition to effects of cell free plasma hemoglobin on scavenging nitric oxide (NO) and generating reactive oxygen species (ROS), heme released from plasma hemoglobin can bind to the toll-like receptor 4 to activate the innate immune system. Persistent intravascular hemolysis over decades leads to chronic vasculopathy, with ∼10% of patients developing pulmonary hypertension. Progressive obstruction of small pulmonary arterioles, increase in pulmonary vascular resistance, decreased cardiac output, and eventual right heart failure causes death in many patients with this complication. This review provides an overview of the pathobiology of hemolysis-mediated endothelial dysfunction and eDAMPs and a summary of our present understanding of diagnosis and management of pulmonary hypertension in sickle cell disease, including a review of recent American Thoracic Society (ATS) consensus guidelines for risk stratification and management.
Germline Mutation in BRCA1 or BRCA2 and Ten-Year Survival for Women Diagnosed with Epithelial Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Candido-dos-Reis Francisco J. , Song Honglin , Goode Ellen L. , Cunningham Julie M. , Fridley Brooke L. , Larson Melissa C. , Alsop Kathryn , Dicks Ed , Harrington Patricia , Ramus Susan J. , de Fazio Anna , Mitchell Gillian , Fereday Sian , Bolton Kelly L. , Gourley Charlie , Michie Caroline , Karlan Beth , Lester Jenny , Walsh Christine , Cass Ilana , Olsson Håkan , Gore Martin , Benitez Javier J. , Garcia Maria J. , Andrulis Irene , Mulligan Anna Marie , Glendon Gord , Blanco Ignacio , Lazaro Conxi , Whittemore Alice S. , McGuire Valerie , Sieh Weiva , Montagna Marco , Alducci Elisa , Sadetzki Siegal , Chetrit Angela , Kwong Ava , Kjaer Susanne K. , Jensen Allan , Høgdall Estrid , Neuhausen Susan , Nussbaum Robert , Daly Mary , Greene Mark H. , Mai Phuong L. , Loud Jennifer T. , Moysich Kirsten , Toland Amanda E. , Lambrechts Diether , Ellis Steve , Frost Debra , Brenton James D. , Tischkowitz Marc , Easton Douglas F. , Antoniou Antonis , Chenevix-Trench Georgia , Gayther Simon A. , Bowtell David , Pharoah Paul D.P.
Published: November 2014

Purpose: To analyze the effect of germline mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 on mortality in patients with ovarian cancer up to 10 years after diagnosis.

Experimental Design: We used unpublished survival time data for 2,242 patients from two case–control studies and extended survival time data for 4,314 patients from previously reported studies. All participants had been screened for deleterious germline mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2. Survival time was analyzed for the combined data using Cox proportional hazard models with BRCA1 and BRCA2 as time-varying covariates. Competing risks were analyzed using Fine and Gray model.

Results: The combined 10-year overall survival rate was 30% [95% confidence interval (CI), 28%–31%] for non-carriers, 25% (95% CI, 22%–28%) for BRCA1 carriers, and 35% (95% CI, 30%–41%) for BRCA2 carriers. The HR for BRCA1 was 0.53 at time zero and increased over time becoming greater than one at 4.8 years. For BRCA2, the HR was 0.42 at time zero and increased over time (predicted to become greater than 1 at 10.5 years). The results were similar when restricted to 3,202 patients with high-grade serous tumors and to ovarian cancer–specific mortality.

Conclusions: BRCA1/2 mutations are associated with better short-term survival, but this advantage decreases over time and in BRCA1 carriers is eventually reversed. This may have important implications for therapy of both primary and relapsed disease and for analysis of long-term survival in clinical trials of new agents, particularly those that are effective in BRCA1/2 mutation carriers. Clin Cancer Res; 21(3); 652–7. ©2014 AACR.
Estrogenic effects of monocrotophos standard on male goldfish, Carassius auratus: induction of vitellogenin synthesis and alteration of testicular ultrastructure and function
Authors: Wang Zhenyu , Sun Meng , Tian Hua , Gao Su , Wang Wei , Ru Shaoguo
Published: November 2014

Monocrotophos has been shown to exert estrogenic effects on teleosts. However, it has not been determined whether monocrotophos itself is the component that is responsible for exerting these estrogenic activities. Therefore, this study was carried out to investigate the estrogenic effects of monocrotophos standard in male goldfish (Carassius auratus), after a 21-day semi-static toxicity test. The induction of vitellogenin synthesis in males exposed to monocrotophos was confirmed with qualitative and quantitative methods. The observed increase in endogenous estrogen levels in males exposed to monocrotophos might explain the induction of vitellogenin. Moreover, we observed a decreased gonadosomatic index, ultrastructure damage of sperm and Sertoli cells, and several alterative testicular enzyme activities in males exposed to monocrotophos, which possibly affect spermatogenesis and male fertility. Our study showed the potential estrogenic effects of monocrotophos standard may act via the induction of vitellogenin synthesis and alteration of testicular ultrastructure and function in male goldfish.
Life cycle of Oligonychus coffeae (Acari: Tetranychidae) on tea leaves in Darjeeling, West Bengal, India
Authors: Podder S. , Biswas H. , Saha G.K. , Gupta S.K.
Published: November 2014

The tea plant, Camellia sinensis (L.), has been cultivated since ancient time and is host to several pest species that can significant reduce productivity. One such pest species is the tea red spider mite. The life cycle of this species, Oligonychus coffeae, Nienter was studied on tea leaves in Darjeeling under laboratory conditions at 20°C and 65% relative humidity. Observations were recorded on freshly laid eggs on tea leaves and continued until individuals reached adulthood. The eggs required an average of 16.17 days to develop into adults. The average longevity of adult was 28.67 days. Our findings contribute to the understanding of mite abundance and population fluctuations in different seasons and climates, and will hopefully help to devise a management strategy for this pest species.
Parasitoid-host interaction: sensory structures involved in the parasitism behavior of Bracon vulgaris (Hymenoptera: Braconidae)
Authors: Alves Thiago J.S. , Wanderley-Teixeira Valéria , Teixeira Álvaro A.C. , Silva-Torres Christian S.A. , Malaquias José B. , Pereira Bruno F. , Caetano Flávio H. , da Cunha Franklin M.
Published: November 2014

Parasitoids have evolved mechanisms to evade their hosts’ defenses.Bracon vulgaris(Ashmead) is a larval ectoparasitoid responsible for natural reduction ofAnthonomus grandis(Boheman) andPectinophora gossypiella(Saunders), which are considered the main cotton pests in the cotton agro-ecosystem in northeastern Brazil. This study aimed to analyze the sensory structures (antennae and ovipositor) involved in the parasitism behavior ofB. vulgaris, and to describe and evaluate associations between composition, morphology, and functions of these structures in the parasitoid-host interaction. Results showed that theB. vulgarisovipositor is a multifunctional structure of 2.7 ± 0.3 mm in length composed of 3 valves. Valves 1 and 2 are elongated, rigid, and act jointly to pierce the host’s cuticle, to inject the poison glands secretion, and to deposit eggs. Valve 3 covers the other valves, giving them protection. Valve 3 also presents annulations in all its extension, which gives flexibility to the ovipositor, and trichoid sensilla that possibly capture vibrations from the host’s feeding and locomotion, thereby aiding the parasite in the host selection. The presence of cuticular microtrichia was possibly responsible for the cleaning of the ovipositor, keeping it functional between the various insertions that occur during the parasitism behavior. The parasitoid’s antennae are filliform-like, measure about 2 mm, and are composed of four types of sensilla (trichoids, basiconical, coeloconical, and placodes) that act as olfactory and gustatory receptors and/or express tactile, thermo,- and hygroreception functions. The integrated action of these sensory components corroborates the successful parasitism behavior of the parasitoidB. vulgaris.
Visual Objects in the Auditory System in Sensory Substitution: How Much Information Do We Need?
Authors: Brown David J. , Simpson Andrew J. R. , Proulx Michael J.
Published: November 2014

Sensory substitution devices such as The vOICe convert visual imagery into auditory soundscapes and can provide a basic ‘visual’ percept to those with visual impairment. However, it is not known whether technical or perceptual limits dominate the practical efficacy of such systems. By manipulating the resolution of sonified images and asking naïve sighted participants to identify visual objects through a six-alternative forced-choice procedure (6AFC) we demonstrate a ‘ceiling effect’ at 8 × 8 pixels, in both visual and tactile conditions, that is well below the theoretical limits of the technology. We discuss our results in the context of auditory neural limits on the representation of ‘auditory’ objects in a cortical hierarchy and how perceptual training may be used to circumvent these limitations.
The Vorticity Balance of the Ocean Surface in Hawaii from a Regional Reanalysis
Authors: Azevedo Correia de Souza Joao Marcos , Powell Brian , Castillo-Trujillo Alma Carolina , Flament Pierre
Published: November 2014

The ocean surface vorticity budget around the Hawaiian Islands is examined using an 18-month model reanalysis generated using four-dimensional variational state estimation with all available observations (satellite, in situ, and high-frequency radio). To better resolve the ocean surface currents and reduce the representation error of the radio-measured surface currents, this study developed a new vertical scheme for the Regional Ocean Modeling System. A new, detailed description of the ocean surface vorticity is created, revealing a region dominated by cyclonic (anticyclonic) vorticity to the north (south) of the mean position of the Hawaii Lee Countercurrent. Advection of vorticity is the primary process that transports the vorticity generated in the lee of the islands by the wind wake. In this island lee, the zonal wavenumber spectra show a cascade of vorticity/energy from the submesoscale toward the larger scales. Latitudinal differences in the advection of vorticity spectra indicate the propagation of a first baroclinic mode Rossby wave in the region dominated by anticyclonic vorticity to the west of the island of Hawaii, while the region dominated by cyclonic vorticity is disrupted by the wake of the smaller islands.
Performance impact of indoor environmental policy implementation for airside systems in Hong Kong Grade A offices
Authors: Wong LT , Mui KW , Cheung CT , Lee EWM , Lee MC
Published: November 2014

Air-conditioned offices in the subtropics are recommended to operate within specified ranges of indoor temperature, relative humidity, air velocity, and carbon dioxide concentration for thermal energy conservation. As environmental discomfort leads to productivity loss, this study investigates the impact of an indoor environmental policy on Grade A offices served by different airside systems in terms of energy consumption, thermal comfort, and productivity loss. Occupant thermal response is specifically considered as an adaptive factor in the evaluation of energy consumption and productivity loss. Simple Monte Carlo sampling technique was applied to determine the input parameters referenced from literatures for simulation. The findings indicate that the reduction of clothing value improves thermal sensation and should be addressed in the environmental policy to ensure a thermally comfortable indoor environment.

Practical application: This study is a useful reference source for evaluating indoor thermal environmental policies for air-conditioned offices in subtropical climates. Implication of clothing value in thermal sensation should be addressed in the environmental policy to ensure a thermally comfortable indoor environment of air-conditioned offices.
Successful Integration of Nonclinical and Clinical Findings in Interpreting the Clinical Relevance of Rodent Neoplasia with a New Chemical Entity
Authors: Ways Kirk , Johnson Mark D. , Mamidi Rao N. V. S. , Proctor James , De Jonghe Sandra , Louden Calvert
Published: November 2014

Canagliflozin, a sodium glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor, has been developed for the treatment of adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). During the phase 3 program, treatment-related pheochromocytomas, renal tubular tumors, and testicular Leydig cell tumors were reported in the 2-year rat toxicology study. Treatment-related tumors were not seen in the 2-year mouse study. A cross-functional, mechanism-based approach was undertaken to determine whether the mechanisms responsible for tumorigenesis in the rat were of relevance to humans. Based on findings from nonclinical and clinical studies, the treatment-related tumors observed in rats were not deemed to be of clinical relevance. Here, we describe the scientific and regulatory journey from learning of the 2-year rat study findings to the approval of canagliflozin for the treatment of T2DM.
Impact of Diabetes E-Consults on Outpatient Clinic Workflow
Authors: Zoll Brian , Parikh Pratik J. , Gallimore Jennie , Harrell Stephen , Burke Brian
Published: November 2014

Background. An e-consult is an electronic communication system between clinicians, usually a primary care physician (PCP) and a medical or surgical specialist, regarding general or patient-specific, low complexity questions that would not need an in-person consultation. The objectives of this study were to understand and quantify the impact of the e-consult initiative on outpatient clinic workflow and outcomes. Methods. We collected data from 5 different Veterans Affairs (VA) outpatient clinics and interviewed several physicians and staff members. We then developed a simulation model for a primary care team at an outpatient clinic. A detailed experimental study was conducted to determine the effects of factors, such as e-consult demand, view-alert notification arrivals, walk-in patient arrivals, and PCP unavailability, on e-consult cycle time. Results. Statistical tests indicated that 4 factors related to outpatient clinic workflow were significant, and levels within each of the 4 significant factors resulted in statistically different e-consult cycle times. The arrival rate of electronic notifications, along with patient walk-ins, had a considerable effect on cycle time. Splitting the workload of an unavailable PCP among the other PCPs, instead of the current practice of allocating it to a single PCP, increases the system’s ability to handle a much larger e-consult demand. Conclusions. The full potential of e-consults can only be realized if the workflow at the outpatient clinics is designed or modified to support this initiative. This study furthers our understanding of how e-consult systems can be analyzed and alternative workflows tested using statistical and simulation modeling to improve care delivery and outcomes.
Inhibition-Induced Forgetting
Authors: Chiu Yu-Chin , Egner Tobias
Published: November 2014

The ability to inhibit prepotent responses is a core executive function, but the relation of response inhibition to other cognitive operations is poorly understood. In the study reported here, we examined inhibitory control through the lens of incidental memory. Participants categorized face stimuli by gender in a go/no-go task (Experiments 1 and 2) or a stop-signal task (Experiment 3) and, after a short delay, performed a surprise recognition memory task for those faces. Memory was impaired for stimuli presented during no-go and stop trials compared with those presented during go trials. Experiment 4 showed that this inhibition-induced forgetting was not attributable to event congruency. In Experiment 5, we combined a go/no-go task with a dot-probe test and found that probe detection during no-go trials was inferior to that on go trials. This result supports the hypothesis that inhibition-induced forgetting occurs when response inhibition shunts attentional resources from perceptual stimulus encoding to action control.
A system dynamic approach to bearing fault identification with the application of Kalman and H∞ filters
Authors: Khanam Sidra , Tandon N , Dutt JK
Published: November 2014

This work attempts to examine the scope of applying Kalman filter and H∞ filter individually on the vibration signal acquired for identifying local defects in a rolling element bearing. This is essentially a system dynamic approach, which is another choice, examined to be a better one in comparison with few other signal analysis approaches reported in the literature. Kalman and H∞ filters are optimal state estimators; Kalman filter is the minimum variance estimator while H∞ filter minimizes the worst case estimation error. States, displacement and velocity, of a rotor shaft system are obtained from its equations of motion, which are written by including the process noise and measurement noise to take into account modeling inaccuracies and vibration from other sources. Experiments have been carried out to investigate the performance of Kalman and H∞ filters each with the Envelope Analysis technique, a popular one for identification of bearing faults, in a noisy environment. Envelope Analysis is performed by taking a Hilbert transform of the band pass filtered signal, whose centre frequency and bandwidth are to be properly selected for satisfactory performance of the algorithm. Signals from test bearings running nearly at constant speed and having a single defect on the inner race and outer race have been acquired for different operating speeds of the test rig in the presence of extraneous vibration (noise) generated by running a nearby compressor. The signal obtained after the application of Kalman and H∞ filter demonstrates a significant enhancement in signal to noise ratio resulting in a clear identification of defect frequencies in the vibration spectrum. Therefore, Kalman or H∞ based state estimation approach may be used with confidence to extract bearing signals from noisy vibration signals.
Loss of endothelial-ARNT in adult mice contributes to dampened circulating proangiogenic cells and delayed wound healing
Authors: Han Yu , Tao Jiayi , Gomer Alla , Ramirez-Bergeron Diana L
Published: November 2014

The recruitment and homing of circulating bone marrow-derived cells include endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) that are critical to neovascularization and tissue regeneration of various vascular pathologies. We report here that conditional inactivation of hypoxia-inducible factor’s (HIF) transcriptional activity in the endothelium of adult mice ( ArntΔiEC mice) results in a disturbance of infiltrating cells, a hallmark of neoangiogenesis, during the early phases of wound healing. Cutaneous biopsy punches show distinct migration of CD31+ cells into wounds of control mice by 36 hours. However, a significant decline in numbers of infiltrating cells with immature vascular markers, as well as decreased transcript levels of genes associated with their expression and recruitment, were identified in wounds of ArntΔiEC mice. Matrigel plug assays further confirmed neoangiogenic deficiencies alongside a reduction in numbers of proangiogenic progenitor cells from bone marrow and peripheral blood samples of recombinant vascular endothelial growth factor-treated ArntΔiEC mice. In addition to HIF’s autocrine requirements in endothelial cells, our data implicate that extrinsic microenvironmental cues provided by endothelial HIF are pivotal for early migration of proangiogenic cells, including those involved in wound healing.
A comparison of WISC-IV and SB-5 intelligence scores in adolescents with autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Baum Katherine T , Shear Paula K , Howe Steven R , Bishop Somer L
Published: November 2014

In autism spectrum disorders, results of cognitive testing inform clinical care, theories of neurodevelopment, and research design. The Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children and the Stanford–Binet are commonly used in autism spectrum disorder evaluations and scores from these tests have been shown to be highly correlated in typically developing populations. However, they have not been compared in individuals with autism spectrum disorder, whose core symptoms can make testing challenging, potentially compromising test reliability. We used a within-subjects research design to evaluate the convergent validity between the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children, 4th ed., and Stanford–Binet, 5th ed., in 40 youth (ages 10–16 years) with autism spectrum disorder. Corresponding intelligence scores were highly correlated ( r = 0.78 to 0.88), but full-scale intelligence quotient (IQ) scores ( t(38) = −2.27, p = 0.03, d = −0.16) and verbal IQ scores ( t(36) = 2.23, p = 0.03; d = 0.19) differed between the two tests. Most participants obtained higher full-scale IQ scores on the Stanford–Binet, 5th ed., compared to Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children, 4th ed., with 14% scoring more than one standard deviation higher. In contrast, verbal indices were higher on the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children, 4th ed., Verbal–nonverbal discrepancy classifications were only consistent for 60% of the sample. Comparisons of IQ test scores in autism spectrum disorder and other special groups are important, as it cannot necessarily be assumed that convergent validity findings in typically developing children and adolescents hold true across all pediatric populations.
(Un)liveabilities: Homonationalism and transnational adoption
Authors: Nebeling Petersen Michael , Myong Lene
Published: November 2014

Rosa Morena tells a story about kinship in which a white homosexual Danish man adopts a child born to a black poor Brazilian woman. Using a theoretical framework of biopolitics and affective labour the article highlights how the male homosexual figure is being cast as heteronormative and white in order to become intelligible as a parent and the bearer of liveable kinship. The casting rests on the affective and reproductive labour of the birth mother who is portrayed as an unsuitable parent through a colonial discourse steeped in sexualized and racialized imagery. A specific distribution of affect fixates and relegates the birth mother to a state of living dead, and thus she becomes the bearer of an unliveable kinship.
An Overview of Testosterone Therapy
Authors: Lee O. Danny , Tillman Ken
Published: November 2014

Millions of men, as a result of the natural aging process, injury, illness, and medical therapies, experience a decline in testosterone levels that necessitate a need for testosterone supplementation therapy (TST). The signs and symptoms of testosterone decline may occur gradually, and low testosterone levels may be misdiagnosed as other medical conditions. Over the past two decades, there has been an increase in testing of testosterone levels and the use of TST. With so many men now on TST, it is essential for health care professionals to know the signs and symptoms, the causes of testosterone decline, how testosterone deficiency is diagnosed, what pathological changes are associated with testosterone decline, and the benefits and risks of TST. In addition, health care providers need to be aware of the various forms of testosterone available as well as the advantages and disadvantages of each. This article provides a brief overview of testosterone deficiency, TST treatment options and guidelines, and the risks and benefits associated with of TST.
Hormone therapy for reproductive depression in women
Authors: Studd John
Published: November 2014

An email survey of patients attending a PMS and Menopause Centre produced 238 patients whose principal presenting symptom was depression. Seventy-seven percent claimed to have had severe or moderate depression, 17% had had at least one psychotic episode and 14% had attempted suicide. Fifty-eight percent had seen a psychiatrist. Seventy-one percent had received antidepressants and 17% had received mood stabilising drugs. Twelve percent had been admitted to a psychiatric hospital and 3.8% had received electroconvulsive therapy. Sixty-eight percent had premenstrual syndrome as a teenager and 145 women (89%) out of 165 women who had been pregnant had no depression during pregnancy but 110 (66%) developed postnatal depression. Ninety-seven women (58%) who had been pregnant had suffered both premenstrual depression and postnatal depression. All were treated with transdermal estrogens and 93% also had transdermal testosterone. One hundred and seventy-one patients had a uterus and received cyclical progestogen to protect the endometrium and 63% of these developed the premenstrual syndrome-type symptoms of progesterone intolerance during the progestogen days. Thirty-five percent of patients claimed to be cured and 55% had a considerable improvement with estrogen therapy. Only 3.7% reported that there was no improvement. For 94%, the hormone therapy was a life-changing event for the better. None were worse. Forty patients had hysterectomy and bilateral oophorectomy for progesterone intolerance or heavy uterine bleeding and 38 replied that it was life changing for the better with less or no depression. It is concluded that premenstrual and postnatal depressions appear in the same vulnerable women. These women are typically well during pregnancy and are a sub group of reproductive depression which also develops climacteric depression in the transition phase. These types of depression are the product of hormonal changes and respond well to transdermal hormone therapy.
The combination of MELD score and ICG liver testing predicts length of stay in the ICU and hospital mortality in liver transplant recipients
Authors: Klinzing Stephanie , Brandi Giovanna , Stehberger Paul A , Raptis Dimitri A , Béchir Markus
Published: November 2014

Background

Early prediction of outcome would be useful for an optimal intensive care management of liver transplant recipients. Indocyanine green clearance can be measured non-invasively by pulse spectrophometry and is closely related to liver function.

Methods

This study was undertaken to assess the predictive value of a combination of the model of end stage liver disease (MELD) score and early indocyanine plasma disappearance rates (ICG-PDR) for length of stay in the intensive care unit (ICU), length of stay in the hospital and hospital mortality in liver transplant recipients.

Results

Fifty consecutive liver transplant recipients were included in this post Hoc single-center study. ICG-PDR was determined within 6 hours after ICU admission. Endpoints were length of stay in the ICU, length of hospital stay and hospital mortality. The combination of a high MELD score (MELD >25) and a low ICG-PDR clearance (ICG-PDR < 20%/minute) predicts a significant longer stay in the ICU (p = 0.004), a significant longer stay in the hospital (p < 0.001) and a hospital mortality of 40% vs. 0% (p = 0.003).

Conclusion

The combination of MELD scores and a singular ICG-PDR measurement in the early postoperative phase is an accurate predictor for outcome in liver transplant recipients. This easy-to-assess tool might be valuable for an optimal intensive care management of those patients.
Surface Tension of Refrigerant Fluids from a Molecular-Based Model
Authors: Alavianmehr Mohammad Mehdi , Hosseini Sayed Mostafa , Moghadasi Jalil , El-Shaikh Mohammad
Published: November 2014

This work addresses a revised method of Fowler’s approximation for predicting the surface tension of refrigerant liquids using a Lennard–Jones (LJ) (12–6) model potential. The required LJ parameters were determined from the second virial coefficients. The major finding in this work was that the effective soft-sphere diameters of the studied LJ-like fluids were found to be a function of temperature and the acentric factor (ω). The reliability of the proposed method was determined by comparison with the literature over a temperature range of 85–384 K. From the 296 data points examined for the above-mentioned liquids, the overall average absolute deviation (AAD) was found to be 2.50%. The uncertainty in the surface tension prediction was ±6.85%. Additionally, surface thermodynamic functions, such as the surface entropy (SS) and surface enthalpy (HS), were also computed via our method. The uncertainties were found to be ±8.93% and ±11.64%, respectively. Furthermore, the AADs of the estimated SS and HS values were found to be 7.50% and 4.79%, respectively. Finally, our method was also employed to estimate the critical temperature of some alkanes with an uncertainty equal to ±5.56%.
Mental illness, stigma and belonging in family relationships
Authors: Ketokivi Kaisa
Published: November 2014

This article examines how belonging in Finnish families is negotiated in the presence of mental illness. The research materials consist of in-depth interviews and figurations of significant relationships of Finnish parents of mentally ill grown children (N = 8) and adults themselves suffering from mental health issues (N = 9). A pragmatist reading of stigma focuses on what happens in relations, both within families and with other social groupings. The article suggests significant others of the family as an important lens through which mental illness and belonging gain their meaning in family. Social class and belonging in wider communities make a difference, but it is in the eyes of particular significant others that the social meanings of mental illness and belonging are negotiated. The article suggests that grasping the logic of belonging in family requires an understanding of a wider social figuration that the family is entangled in.
Der Bologna-Prozess als Herausforderung für die theologische Ethik
Authors: Anselm Reiner , Fischer Johannes , Lienemann Wolfgang , Reuter Hans-Richard
Published: November 2014

The Bologna process forces a reframing of the theological education. In the autor's mind, it affords chances for an improved quality during the first two cycles. The change from an input-oriented to an output-oriented leaming provides a better professional competences. In addition, the Bologna process provokes to profile theology in an interdisciplinary context. The article outlines the profile of Theological Ethics as a self-contained discipline, connectedwith both, the other theolgical disciplines and the adjacent sciences, such as medicine, law, and sociology. According to this, the authors discuss the advantages and the risks ofthe two-cylcle, BA/MA education and draw the conclusions for the further curriculas in theological ethics. A coml)lon competence-based core-curriculum is presented in order to get joint standards and to improve student's mobility.
Jenseits von Verfügungswissen und Orientierungswissen
Authors: Schmid Konrad
Published: November 2014

Protestant Ethics can supply Orientierungswissen as well as Verfügungswissen (Jürgen Mittelstraß). Beyond that it can and must also formulate »Evangeliums«-Wissen, a knowledge about the condition of life that precedes all notions of what we can and should do. There is no reason why this knowledge should not be a fundamental part of the cosmos of sciences. For Protestant Ethics this mode of reasoning is interesting because Protestant Ethics can thus operate in an area of its own while at the same time being more than a pseudo-science of politics, economics or medicine
Kann die Anwendung von Folter in Extremsituationen aus der Sicht christlicher Ethik gerechtfertigt werden?
Authors: Härle Wilfried
Published: November 2014

In accordance with the Christian understanding ofhuman dignity, torture can be considered as a Iegitimale ethical alternative only if it does not serve as punishment or intend to elicit a juridical confession but rather intends to rescue actually threatened human life. However, the indirect relation between torture and potential rescue creates an unavoidable uncertainty ofknowing and deciding. This is the most important difference between torture on the one hand and both self-defence (Notwehr) and self-defence by proxy (Nothilfe) on the other. And precisely this difference excludes any ethical justification of torture. Who nevertheless- for ethical reasons- in a situation of serious conflict decides to command ortoperform torture must at least accept the juridical consequences of his or her decision.
SECULAR TRENDS AND LATITUDE GRADIENTS IN SEX RATIOS AT BIRTH IN THE FORMER SOVIET REPUBLICS
Authors: Grech Victor
Published: November 2014

Background: The male-female ratio at birth (M/F: male births divided by total births), which is anticipated to approximate 0.515, has been shown to exhibit latitude gradients and secular trends. Methods: Annual national data for male and female live births for the 15 countries that comprise the former Soviet Union were obtained from the World Health Organisation for the period 1980–2009 (115,167,569 total live births) and analysed with contingency tables. Spearman correlation was also carried out to compare percentage annual gross domestic product growth (GDP% – downloaded from the World Bank) and M/F. In this context, GDP% is used as a measure for economic hardship or wellbeing within the populace. Results: There have been overall highly significant secular increases in M/F (p < 0.0001) in the countries and regions investigated. M/F is significantly lower in the three more northern regions (Russian Federation, Baltic States and Central Asia. M/F 0.51324, 0.51335-0.51314) than the two more southern regions (Southern Caucasus and Eastern Europe. M/F 0.51654, 0.51635-0.51672). There was a male excess of 113,818 live births.There was a significant positive correlation between GDP% and M/F for Armenia, Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan. There was a significant negative correlation in Estonia. Conclusion: Previous studies have shown that improving socioeconomic conditions increase M/F, and the converse has also been demonstrated. This is a potential influence in this geographical area since this region has relatively recently emerged from communist rule and experienced an overall economic upturn, but is only partially supported using GDP%. Another factor may be the selective termination of female pregnancies. The latitude gradient parallels that of neighbouring Europe but no theory has been put forward to convincingly explain this finding to date.
ONCOCYTIC SCHNEIDERIAN PAPILLOMA OF FRONTAL SINUS
Authors: Kalfeřt David , Laco Jan , Čelakovský Petr , Smatanová Katarína , Ludvíková Marie
Published: November 2014

Oncocytic Schneiderian papilloma (OSP) is one of the three morphologically distinct tumors that arise from Schneiderian membrane (the others include exophytic papilloma and inverted papilloma). OSP almost always occurs unilaterally in the paranasal sinuses, usually in the maxillary sinus, ethmoid cells or sphenoid sinus. We report a case of a 64-year-old woman with OSP arising from the left frontal sinus. In the report herein, we describe an OSP originating in the region of frontal sinus, which, to the best of our knowledge, represents the first documented example in English literature of OSP developing in this anatomical site.
SEALING ABILITY OF MINERAL TRIOXIDE AGGREGATE, CALCIUM PHOSPHATE CEMENT, AND GLASS IONOMER CEMENT IN THE REPAIR OF FURCATION PERFORATIONS
Authors: Singh Prabath , Paul Joseph , Al-Khuraif Abdul Aziz , Vellappally Sajith , Halawany Hassan Suliman , Hashim Mohamed , Abraham Nimmi Biju , Jacob Vimal , Thavarajah Rooban
Published: November 2014

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to evaluate thein vitrosealing ability of three repair materials. Mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA; Group A), calcium phosphate cement (CPC; Group B), and light cured glass ionomer cement (GIC; Group C) when used to repair the perforation created in the pulpal floor of fifty extracted human permanent molars. Materials and methods: Preparation of access openings and furcation perforations were done, and the teeth divided into five experimental groups (A, B, C) including two controls (D, E) with ten samples in each group randomly. Following the repair procedure, the pulp chambers and access openings were filled with composite resin and immersed in 2% methylene blue solution for 48 hours. The teeth were sectioned longitudinally and the linear dye penetration measured under a stereo­microscope. Results: The comparison of the linear length of micro-leakage (mm) among the experimental groups revealed no significant difference (p = 0.332). On calculating the percentage of depth of leakage to the total length of the perforation, it was observed that the mean leakage was 35.5% in Group A, 53.6% in Group B and the highest, 87.5% in Group C. The mean of leakage percentage was statistically significant by Kruskal-Wallis test (p = 0.003). The results indicated that the dye penetration used as furcation perforation repair material was least with mineral trioxide aggregate. Comparing the depth of penetration of dye, 50% of the Group A samples showed less than 25% of depth penetration. While 40% of Group B cases had more than 50% dye penetration. In our study, all Group C teeth had ≥ 50% dye penetration. Conclusions: The present study indicated that GIC had the greatest dye penetration followed by CPC and MTA. Mineral trioxide aggregate and calcium phosphate cement had comparatively better sealing ability than glass ionomer cement.
EFFECT OF COLLAGEN I GEL ON APOPTOSIS OF RAT HEPATIC STELLATE CELLS
Authors: Bittnerová Lenka , Jiroutová Alena , Rudolf Emil , Řezáčová Martina , Kanta Jiří
Published: November 2014

Activated hepatic stellate cells (HSC) are a major source of fibrous proteins in cirrhotic liver. Inducing or accelerating their apoptosis is a potential way of liver fibrosis treatment. Extracellular matrix (ECM) surrounding cells in tissue affects their differentiation, migration, proliferation and function. Type I collagen is the main ECM component in fibrotic liver. We have examined how this protein modifies apoptosis of normal rat HSC induced by gliotoxin, cycloheximide and cytochalasin D in vitro and spontaneous apoptosis of HSC isolated from CCl4-damaged liver. We have found that type I collagen gel enhances HSC apoptosis regardless of the agent triggering this process.
THE MANAGEMENT OF CHARCOT MIDFOOT DEFORMITIES IN DIABETIC PATIENTS
Authors: Šponer Pavel , Kučera Tomáš , Brtková Jindra , Šrot Jaromír
Published: November 2014

Charcot foot neuropathic osteoarthropathy is a disorder affecting the soft tissues, joints, and bones of the foot and ankle. The disease is triggered in a susceptible individual through a process of uncontrolled inflammation leading to osteolysis, progressive fractures and articular malpositioning due to joint subluxations and dislocations. The progression of the chronic deformity with a collapsed plantar arch leads to plantar ulcerations because of increased pressure on the plantar osseous prominences and decreased plantar sensation. Subsequent deep soft tissue infection and osteomyelitis may result in amputation. The Charcot foot in diabetes represents an important diagnostic and therapeutic challenge in clinical practice. Conservative treatment remains the standard of the care for most patients with neuropathic disorder. Offloading the foot and immobilization based on individual merit are essential and are the most important recommendations in the active acute stage of the Charcot foot. Surgical realignment with stabilization is recommended in severe progressive neuropathic deformities consisting of a collapsed plantar arch with a rocker-bottom foot deformity.