bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ITPase Activity Modulates the Severity of Anaemia in HCV-Related Cirrhosis Treated with Ribavirin-Containing Interferon-Free Regimens
Authors: Coppola Nicola , De Pascalis Stefania , Messina Vincenzo , Di Caprio Giovanni , Martini Salvatore , De Stefano Giorgio , Starace Mario , Stornaiuolo Gianfranca , Stanzione Maria , Ascione Tiziana , Minichini Carmine , Sangiovanni Vincenzo , Zampino Rosa , Calò Federica , Rinaldi Luca , Persico Marcello , Federico Alessandro , Buonomo Antonio Riccardo , Borgia Guglielmo , Gaeta Giovanni Battista , Filippini Pietro , Gentile Ivan
Published: February 2017

Background

To investigate the association between inosine triphosphatase (ITPase) activity and the degree of anaemia occurring during direct-acting antiviral (DAA)/ribavirin (RBV)-based therapy in patients with cirrhosis.

Methods

In a multicentre, prospective study 227 patients with HCV-related cirrhosis treated with DAA and RBV were enrolled. All patients were screened for the rs1127354 and rs7270101 ITPA single nucleotide polymorphisms using direct sequencing.

Results

150 (66.1%) patients had normal (100%) ITPase activity, 48 (21.1%) had moderate (60%) activity and 29 (12.8%) minimal (≤30%) activity. The ITPase activity significantly influenced the haemoglobin concentration: at day 15 it was -1.248 (sd ±0.978) in the 150 patients with an ITPase activity of 100% and -0.616 (±0.862) in the 77 patients with an ITPase activity less than 100% ( P <0.000), and at day 30 it was -1.941 ±1.218 versus -1.11 ±1.218 ( P <0.000). The 63 patients with a severe (at least 3/dl) haemoglobin decline, compared to those without, more frequently had an ITPase activity of 100% (82.1% versus 62.8%; P=0.021), were older (mean age ±sd: 66.7 ±8.2 versus 61.4 ±9.7 years; P=0.004) and were treated with a higher ribavirin dose (13.7 ±2.1 versus 12.8 ±2.5 mg/ kg/day; P=0.008). At multivariate logistic regression analysis, the ITPase activity of 100% (OR: 2.83; 95% CI: 1.12, 7.10), male gender (OR: 3.22; 95% CI: 1.35, 7.66), body mass index (OR: 1.17; 95% CI: 1.03, 1.34) and dose of ribavirin (OR: 1.22; 95% CI: 1.06, 1.47) were independent predictors of a severe decline in haemoglobin ( P<0.0001).

Conclusions

This study suggests that the polymorphisms in the ITPA gene influence the severity of anaemia during the first month of a DAA/RBV-based treatment in HCV-related cirrhosis.
Gestão empresarial e desenvolvimento sustentável: Análise a partir da carteira ISE da Bolsa de Valores de São Paulo (2011-2015) / Business management and sustainable development: Analysis from the ISE portfolio of the São Paulo Stock Exchange (2011-2015)
Authors: Oride Karen Sanae , Myszczuk Ana Paula
Published: February 2017

O atual artigo se propõe a apresentar análises sobre as influências e contribuições das empresas, por meio do seguinte problema: no contexto do século XXI no Brasil, em quais dimensões é possível falar em atividade empresarial sustentável? A pesquisa procurou definir conceitos essenciais ligados ao tema e o papel das empresas dentro deste cenário. A metodologia escolhida foi de caráter exploratória e qualitativa, assim como bibliográfica e documental, para então, em segundo momento, realizar a triangulação de dados por meio levantamento de teorias para dar base à análise, indicadores de sustentabilidade e coleta de informações a partir do site das organizações de interesse. Ao verificar a carteira ISE da Bolsa de Valores de São Paulo dos últimos cinco anos foram selecionados as cinco empresas analisadas: BRFoods, Bradesco, Copel, Natura e Vale. Compreendendo a relevância da temática, é possível notar um crescimento com a preocupação das empresas nesse sentido, embora ainda em desenvolvimento, algumas ações realmente causam impactos positivos no meio em que estão inseridas.
La nueva configuración geopolítica de la cooperación al desarrollo en el continente latinoamericano: el impacto de china como nuevo donante-inversor en la región / The new geopolitical configuration of development cooperation in the Latin American continent: the impact of China as a new donor-investor in the region
Authors: Pirzkall Heike Clara Pintor
Published: February 2017

Aunque la Unión Europea y Estados Unidos han sido donantes estratégicos en la región durante décadas,hoy susintereses geopolíticos han cambiado y América Latina ha dejado de ser prioritaria. Ante esta situación y aprovechando la retracción económica de los donantes tradicionales y por tanto una reducción de la asistencia, China está tomando el relevo, convirtiéndose en socio esencialdel desarrollo latinoamericano.Esta comunicación analizará los cambios que se han producido en las formas de cooperar y las nuevas estructuras alternativas que se están creando en el ámbito de la cooperación al desarrollo, en la que intervienen varios socios en una relación horizontal cuasi triangular, y dónde China está jugando un papel importante en una nueva configuración geopolítica del desarrollo en la regíon.
Um estado sem planejamento urbano e regional: A saga da Fundrem no Estado do Rio de Janeiro / A state without urban and regional planning: The Fundrem saga in the state of Rio de Janeiro
Authors: Dias Robson Santos
Published: February 2017

O objetivo deste trabalho é analisar o processo de esvaziamento programático e institucional do planejamento urbano e regional no Estado do Rio de Janeiro após a fusão de 1974. A partir de uma análise histórica do que se denomina de questão regional fluminense, que engloba tanto a problemática metropolitana quanto a disparidade entre a capital e o interior, demonstra-se que, desde a transferência da capital para Brasília, em 1960, falava-se da possibilidade da fusão entre o atual Município do Rio de Janeiro e o antigo Estado do Rio de Janeiro. O principal argumento era que, diante das complementaridades econômicas entre as duas unidades territoriais, a cisão era artificial. Essa ideia foi apropriada durante o Governo Geisel, que, utilizando argumentos geopolíticos e territoriais, visava a fazer da Região Metropolitana do Rio de Janeiro o segundo polo de desenvolvimento do II Plano Nacional de Desenvolvimento (PND). Aprovada a fusão, construiu-se um arranjo institucional de planejamento urbano e regional, no qual se destacava a Fundação para o Desenvolvimento da Região Metropolitana do Rio de Janeiro (FUNDREM), órgão de planejamento metropolitano. Nos anos posteriores à fusão, entretanto, a FUNDREM foi perdendo prestígio e foi esvaziada até ser extinta em 1989. Tal trajetória não foi casuística, mas o resultado do esgotamento de uma agenda em que a questão regional e, em particular, a questão metropolitana tinham centralidade.
Cooperação, participação e configuração geopolítica no planejamento e desenvolvimento / Cooperation, participation and geopolitical configuration in planning and development
Authors: Catapan Anderson
Published: February 2017

Este editorial introduz o primeiro número do sexto volume da Revista Brasileira de Planejamento e Desenvolvimento. Os tópicos dos artigos incluem pobreza na infância e adolescência, as novas grandes potências internacionais, gestão empresarial, configuração geopolítica, desenvolvimento local, impactos do clima, desenvolvimento regional e planejamento regional.
Efferocytosis Signaling in the Regulation of Macrophage Inflammatory Responses
Authors: Elliott Michael R. , Koster Kyle M. , Murphy Patrick S.
Published: February 2017

Since the pioneering work of Elie Metchnikoff and the discovery of cellular immunity, the phagocytic clearance of cellular debris has been considered an integral component of resolving inflammation and restoring function of damaged and infected tissues. We now know that the phagocytic clearance of dying cells (efferocytosis), particularly by macrophages and other immune phagocytes, has profound consequences on innate and adaptive immune responses in inflamed tissues. These immunomodulatory effects result from an array of molecular signaling events between macrophages, dying cells, and other tissue-resident cells. In recent years, many of these molecular pathways have been identified and studied in the context of tissue inflammation, helping us better understand the relationship between efferocytosis and inflammation. We review specific types of efferocytosis-related signals that can impact macrophage immune responses and discuss their relevance to inflammation-related diseases.
Contact, Collaboration, and Conflict: Signal Integration of Syk-Coupled C-Type Lectin Receptors
Authors: Ostrop Jenny , Lang Roland
Published: February 2017

Several spleen tyrosine kinase–coupled C-type lectin receptors (CLRs) have emerged as important pattern recognition receptors for infectious danger. Because encounter with microbial pathogens leads to the simultaneous ligation of several CLRs and TLRs, the signals emanating from different pattern recognition receptors have to be integrated to achieve appropriate biological responses. In this review, we briefly summarize current knowledge about ligand recognition and core signaling by Syk-coupled CLRs. We then address mechanisms of synergistic and antagonistic crosstalk between different CLRs and with TLRs. Emerging evidence suggests that signal integration occurs through 1) direct interaction between receptors, 2) regulation of expression levels and localization, and 3) collaborative or conflicting signaling interference. Accordingly, we aim to provide a conceptual framework for the complex and sometimes unexpected outcome of CLR ligation in bacterial and fungal infection.
Internal Medicine Program Directors' Perceptions of the “All In” Match Rule: A Cross-Sectional Survey
Authors: Alweis Richard , Khan Muhammad Sohail , Kuehl Sapna , Wasser Thomas , Donato Anthony
Published: February 2017

Background

Since 2013, the National Resident Matching Program (NRMP) has asked all programs to declare themselves to be “all in” or “all out” for the NRMP. Before this rule was enacted, program directors who were surveyed expressed concerns about what they anticipated with the change, including resources for increased applications and potential delays with residency start times.

Objective

This study investigated the positive and negative effects of the rule change on recruiting seen from the perspective of internal medicine (IM) program directors.

Methods

In this mixed model cross-sectional survey, Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education–accredited IM program directors were surveyed regarding their impressions of the impact of the policy change. Data were aggregated using constant comparative analysis.

Results

A total of 127 of 396 (32%) IM program directors responded, and 122 of 127 (96%) identified their program as “all in.” A total of 110 respondents expressed impressions of the rule change, with 48% (53 of 111) reporting positive responses, 28% (31 of 111) neutral responses, and 24% (27 of 111) negative responses. Programs with higher percentages of visa-holding residents had lower positive responses (37% [22 of 60] versus 61% [31 of 51]). Resident quality was felt to be unchanged or improved by most program directors (93%, 103 of 111), yet 24% (27 of 112) reported increases in delayed start times for visa-holding residents. Qualitative analysis identified increased fairness, at the expense of an increase in program resources as a result of the change.

Conclusions

A slight majority of residency programs reported a neutral or negative impression of the rule change. Since the rule change, program directors noted increased application volume and delayed residency starts for visa-holding residents.
Using Financial Reporting for Decision Making as a Measure Towards Resilient Government Finances: The Case of Switzerland
Authors: Fuchs Sandro , Bergmann Andreas , Brusca Isabel
Published: February 2017

Based on comparative, cross-sectional evidence of 15 Swiss sub-national governments this paper assesses the impact of different accrual accounting reforms on financial reporting and elaborates how this new information has affected decision-making processes. Results show that accrual financial reporting is a necessary instrument towards achieving resilient government finances. This paper embraces relevant questions for developed and developing countries, particularly in the context of heavily indebted public sector entities, ongoing accrual accounting reforms and the looming EPSAS promulgation. The paper reveals that accrual accounting reforms act as an important trigger point towards a more strategic use of newly provided financial data.
Do Political Factors Affect the Risk of Local Government Default? Recent Evidence from Spain
Authors: Navarro-Galera Andrés , Buendía-Carrillo Dionisio , Lara-Rubio Juan , Rayo-Cantón Salvador
Published: February 2017

High levels of debt, provoked by a situation of economic and financial crisis, constitute a major threat to the financial sustainability of governments in the euro zone and in many other parts of the world. This delicate state of public finances also affects local governments and has led researchers to study the variables that influence the volume of bank debt. However, few have specifically analysed the causes of local government default, although it has provoked spending cutbacks and tax increases in many countries. The aim of this paper is to examine political factors that may increase the risk of local government default. Using a logit model for panel data and applying the Basel II rules, we studied the financial performance of large local Spanish governments for the period 2006-2011. Our empirical findings reveal four political factors that may increase the risk of default (the mayor’sknowledge of finance and economics, a low percentage of women councillors, a left-wing ideology and ideological alignment with the regional government).These findings are of great interest for stakeholders who may be affected by local government default, including voters, taxpayers, users of public services, managers, policymakers, financial institutions, creditors, fiscal authorities and central government.
The Effects of Decentralization on Efficiency in Public Procurement: Empirical Evidence for the Czech Republic
Authors: Plaček Michal
Published: February 2017

The impact of decentralization on efficiency in the production of public goods and services has been described by the current scientific discourse in some detail. In this article, we focus on an analysis of the impact of the factor of decentralization as well as other selected factors on efficiency in public procurement. We view the term efficiency to be the ratio between the tendered and the estimated price, but also as procedural correctness and legality, as it is reflected in the administration of complaints, investigations, and findings regarding violations of the law by the supervising authority. We then describe the phases of bidding and post-bidding. For empirical research, we used linear regression and logistic regression. These methods are applied to data regarding public procurement for the years 2010-2014. The results show that, among the contracting authorities at the different levels of decentralization, there were statistically significant differences which we can explain through the different levels of accountability, economies of scale, as well as the qualifications of the workers of the contracting authority.
Evolutionary transformation of the journal. Part 3
Authors: Kokowski Michał ,   Institute for the History of Science, Polish Academy of Sciences (Warsaw– Cracow, Poland)
Published: February 2017

It is outlined the third phase of the development of the journal Prace Komisji Historii Nauki PAU (Proceedings of the PAU Commission on the History of Science). In June 2016 Prace Komisji Historii Nauki PAU2015, vol. XIV was issued. Following the legal decision with effect from 4 July 2016 the journal, while maintaining the continuity of its publication, has been renamed to Studia Historiae Scientiarum. Since June 2016 the journal has a new website with an editorial panel on the Scientific Journals Portal. At the same time it still uses the existing website on the PAU Portal. In November 2016 Studia Historiae Scientiarum2016, vol. 15 was issued.
Geologia stosowana w badaniach Karola Bohdanowicza i jego polskich uczniów na Syberii na przełomie XIX i XX wieku
Authors: Wójcik Andrzej J.
Published: February 2017

Badania w zakresie geologii stosowanej (geologii złóż, geologii inżynierskiej, hydrogeologii) na przełomie XIX i XX wieku na obszarze Syberii prowadzili także absolwenci Instytutu Górniczego skupieni wokół Karola Bohdanowicza. Wśród nich byli między innymi Stefan Czarnocki i Stanisław Doktorowicz-Hrebnicki. Ich działalność na terenie Syberii stała się dowodem na istnienie „szkoły” Bohdanowicza, a wyniki ich prac naukowych na trwale weszły do dorobku nauki i stały się podstawą do tworzenia górnictwa surowców mineralnych.
The life of Tadeusz Banachiewicz and his scientific activity
Authors: Bujakiewicz-Korońska Renata , Koroński Jan Koroński ,   Pedagogical University of Cracow, Institute of Physics, Poland,   Cracow University of Technology, Institute of Mathematics (Cracow, Poland)
Published: February 2017

This paper is a synthetic biography of Tadeusz Banachiewicz (1882–1954), which takes into account his most important scientific achievements. Its aim is to present the achievements of this Polish scientist to the foreign reader.
A discussion of books: Modi memorandi: Leksykon kultury pamięci by Magdalena Saryusz-Wolska. Warsaw: Wydawnictwo Naukowe Scholar, 2014 and Deutsch-Polnische Erinnerungsorte, Volumes 1–5. Paderborn: Schöningh, 2012–2015 Polsko-niemieckie miejsca pamięci, Volumes 1–4. Warsaw: Wydawnictwo Naukowe Scholar, 2013–2015
Authors: Kokowski Michał ,   Institute for the History of Science, Polish Academy of Sciences (Warsaw– Cracow, Poland)
Published: February 2017

This article presents a discussion of two monographs reporting on their merits and shortcomings: Modi memorandi: Leksykon kultury pamięci by M. Saryusz-Wolska (2014), and Deutsch-Polnische Erinnerungsorte, vols 1–5 (2012–2015) / Polsko-niemieckie miejsca pamięci, vols 1–4 (2013–2015).
Omówienie książki: Alicja Rafalska-Łasocha, Maria Skłodowska-Curie i jej kontakty ze środowiskiem krakowskim. Kraków: Polska Akademia Umiejętności, 2015, ISBN 978-83-7676-221-0, ss. 214
Authors: Kokowski Michał ,   Institute for the History of Science, Polish Academy of Sciences (Warsaw– Cracow, Poland)
Published: February 2017

This article presents a discussion of the monograph by A. Rafalska-Łasocha dedicated mainly to the contacts of Maria Skłodowska-Curie with the Krakow scientific community.
Konferencja naukowa z okazji 200. rocznicy powstania Towarzystwa Naukowego Krakowskiego
Authors: Pudłocki Tomasz ,   Jagiellonian University, The Institute of History, Department of History of Culture and Historical Education (Cracow, Poland)
Published: February 2017

The author submittedto print the report of the scientific conference which had been organized on the occasion of the 200th anniversary of the foundation of the Kraków Learned Society. The session was held in December 9–10, 2015 as a result of cooperation between the Polish Academy of Arts and Sciences, the Jagiellonian University as well as the Scientific Archives of the Polish Academy of Sciences and the Polish Academy of Arts and Sciences in Kraków. It brought an international group of speakers together to discuss in their deliberations the various aspects of the Cracow Learned Society. The outcome of the meeting is the publication Towarzystwo Naukowe Krakowskie w 200-lecie założenia (1815–2015). Materiały konferencji naukowej 9–10 grudnia 2015, edited by Wanda Lohman (Kraków, 2016).
Uwagi do komentarza prof. Michała Kokowskiego o badaniach życiorysu Jana Czochralskiego
Authors: Tomaszewski Paweł E.
Published: February 2017

Prezentowane uwagi są kolejnym (trzecim) etapem polemiki na temat faktów z życia Jana Czochralskiego i różnic w sposobie ich przedstawiania przez amatora i profesjonalnego historyka. Źródłem kontrowersji jest obszerna biografia pt. Powrót. Rzecz o Janie Czochralskim (2012), edycja w języku angielskim: Jan Czochralski restored (2013).
Sprawozdanie Komisji Historii Nauki PAU w 2015/2016 roku
Authors: Kokowski Michał
Published: February 2017

Omówiona została działalność Komisji Historii Nauki PAU w roku 2015/2016. Przedstawiono spisy: posiedzeń naukowych i posiedzeń administracyjno-wyborczych, nowych Członków Komisji oraz nowych publikacji.
The report on the activities of the PAU Commission on the History of Science in 2015/2016
Authors: Kokowski Michał
Published: February 2017

Omówiona została działalność Komisji Historii Nauki PAU w roku 2015/2016. Przedstawiono spisy: posiedzeń naukowych i posiedzeń administracyjno-wyborczych, nowych Członków Komisji oraz nowych publikacji.
Cartilage Shield Tympanoplasty: A Retrospective Chart Review of 69 Cases
Authors: Patadia Simple , Keshri Amitkumar , Shah Saurin
Published: February 2017

Objective

Cartilage shield tympanoplasty (CST) is an acknowledged procedure to repair total tympanic membrane perforations. The main objective of this study was to share our experience of CST, in form of its technique, graft uptake and hearing outcomes.

Study design

Retrospective chart review.

Setting

Tertiary care hospital, Sanjay Gandhi Postgraduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India.

Patients

A total of 69 cases of type 1 CST, from January 2013 to March 2014. We followed all patients for a minimum period of 6 months.

Intervention

Therapeutic.

Main outcome measures

Graft uptake rate, along with preand postoperative pure tone audiogram air bone gap (ABG) and postoperative complications, was evaluated. We compared ABG using Student's t-test.

Results

Graft uptake was seen in 68 cases (98.5%). The mean pre- and postoperative pure tone audiometry (PTA)-ABG was 37.58 ± 6.43 dB and 20.19 ± 8.14 dB, respectively. Hearing improvement was maximum at 2 kHz with mean postoperative value of 17.73 dB, and the least improvement was seen at 8 kHz with value of 30 dB in postoperative period.

Conclusion

The graft uptake rate was excellent, and hearing results were satisfactory. Cartilage shield tympanoplasty should be a recommended procedure for total perforation, subtotal perforation and revision cases. However, long-term results are still awaited.

How to cite this article

Patadia S, Keshri A, Shah S. Cartilage Shield Tympanoplasty: A Retrospective Chart Review of 69 Cases. Int J Otorhinolaryngol Clin 2015;7(3):105-108.
A Comparative Study of Endoscopic Myringoplasty vs Conventional Myringoplasty
Authors: Kumar Manish , Kanaujia SK , Singh Ashutosh
Published: February 2017

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy of endoscopic myringoplasty and comparison with conventional myringoplasty.

Materials and methods

Sixty cases of clinically diagnosed chronic suppurative otitis media with dry central perforation were taken into account of which 30 cases were undergone endoscopic myringoplasty and 30 cases undergone conventional myringoplasty. All patients were followed up on 3rd, 7th, 15th day, 6th weeks, 3rd and 6th months after surgery.

Results

The tympanic membrane's perforation healing rate was 86% (26/30), in conventional group of myringoplasty and 83% (25/30) in endoscopic group of myringoplasty and average hearing gain in conventional group was 13.96 dB and in endoscopic group was 15.03 dB.

Conclusion

The surgical outcome of endoscope assisted myringoplasty in terms of graft uptake and hearing improvement was comparable to the conventional microscope assisted myringoplasty, but in terms of cosmesis and postoperative recovery patients in the endoscope group had better results.

How to cite this article

Kumar M, Kanaujia SK, Singh A. A Comparative Study of Endoscopic Myringoplasty vs Conventional Myringoplasty. Int J Otorhinolaryngol Clin 2015;7(3): 132-137.
Low-dose Magnesium Sulfate Regime for Eclampsia in India
Authors: Agrawal Neha , Garg Ruchika , Kumari S Shantha
Published: February 2017

Introduction

Eclampsia is one of the leading causes of maternal mortality. Magnesium sulfate (MgSO4) can be a drug for its management.

Objectives

To study the safety and efficacy of low-dose MgSO4 for control of convulsions in case of eclampsia and to compare it with Pritchard regimen in terms of its effects and perinatal outcome.

Materials and methods

This study was conducted in Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology. It was a prospective study and included 78 cases of eclampsia. Thirty-nine cases were given low-dose regime and remaining 39 were given Pritchard regimen. Low-dose regime for eclampsia: Loading dose 4 gm MgSO4 IV diluted in 20 cc of 5% dextrose, slowly over 5 to 8 minutes. Maintenance dose 2 gm IV similarly diluted was given 3 hourly till 24 hours after delivery or after convulsion which ever was later. If recurrence of convulsions occurs, then additional dose 2 gm IV was given and previous dose schedule continued as such.

Results

Eclamptic convulsions were controlled in 94.87% of cases with low-dose regime, and in the remaining cases were controlled with additional 2 gm IV dose MgSO4 compared to 37.14% with Pritchard regimen.

Conclusion

Low-dose magnesium regime is highly suitable for women in our setup, and it is as effective as Pritchard regimen for controlling convulsions in eclampsia along with better perinatal outcome and with less MgSO4 toxicity.

How to cite this article

Garg R, Agrawal N, Kumari SS, Agrawal P. Low-dose Magnesium Sulfate Regime for Eclampsia in India. J South Asian Feder Obst Gynae 2017;9(1):5-8.
Sublingual Misoprostol vs Intravenous Tranexamic Acid in reducing Blood Loss during Cesarean Section: A Prospective Randomized Study
Authors: Bose Deepak , Beegum Rasheeda
Published: February 2017

Introduction

The increasing incidence of cesarean sections in India has caused a rise in the incidence of postpartum hemorrhage (PPH). There has been expanding interest in the role of misoprostol and tranexamic acid (TXA) in preventing and managing PPH during lower (uterine) segment cesarean section (LSCS). However, the lack of a published study comparing the efficacies of these drugs prompted us to conduct this study.

Aims and objectives

To compare the efficacies of sublingual misoprostol (600 μg) and intravenous TXA injection (500 mg) in reducing blood loss during LSCS by assessing intraoperative blood loss, perioperative hemoglobin (Hb) fall, and need for additional uterotonic agents.

Materials and methods

A total of 163 pregnant patients undergoing emergency/elective LSCS during the study period from 2013 to 2014 were randomly assigned to two groups — group I (82) received sublingual misoprostol 600 μg and group II (81) intravenous TXA 500 mg at cord clamping. Visual estimation of blood loss was done and 48 hours postoperative Hb and packed cell volume were measured to compare with preoperative values. Need for added uterotonics, blood transfusion, and adverse effects of drugs was assessed. The two groups were again subgrouped based on presence or absence of risk factors for PPH.

Results

The TXA significantly reduced blood loss compared with misoprostol (416 vs 505 mL) in patients without high-risk factors for PPH. Misoprostol caused significantly higher minor side effects while TXA reduced operation time.

Conclusion

The TXA can be routinely used after cord clamping along with oxytocin in patients undergoing elective/emergency LSCS to reduce perioperative blood loss, especially in those without risk factors for PPH.

How to cite this article

Bose D, Beegum R. Sublingual Misoprostol vs Intravenous Tranexamic Acid in reducing Blood Loss during Cesarean Section: A Prospective Randomized Study. J South Asian Feder Obst Gynae 2017;9(1):9-13.
Prediction of Preeclampsia: Role of Antiangiogenic and Proangiogenic Biomarkers
Authors: Garg Ruchika , Shanthakumari S
Published: February 2017

The pathogenesis of preeclampsia (PE) is unknown, but recent studies have revealed that placenta is the place of origin of this disorder, and widespread maternal endothelial dysfunction is the charactertstic feature of the disease. Some biochemical molecules that are involved in the pathogenesis of the disease have recently been identified, which may help in early identification of patients at risk and help in providing proper prenatal care. Several promising biomarkers have been proposed, alone or in combination. Maternal serum concentrations of these biomarkers either increase or decrease in PE during gestation. This review focuses on the various biomarkers available and their utility in prediction and diagnosis of PE.

How to cite this article

Garg R, Roy P, Agrawal P, Shanthakumari S. Prediction of Preeclampsia: Role of Antiangiogenic and Proangiogenic Biomarkers. J South Asian Feder Obst Gynae 2017;9(1): 47-52.
Transabdominal Ultrasound-guided Follicular Aspiration in Case of Müllerian Anomaly with Ovarian Malposition
Authors: Goyal Preeti A
Published: February 2017

Objectives: To describe the approach of transabdominal ultrasound-guided oocyte retrieval in a patient of Müllerian anomaly and ovarian malposition. Design: Case report.

Setting

A tertiary referral reproductive medicine unit.

Patient

A 23-year-old patient with Müllerian anomaly (right unicornuate with left rudimentary horn uterus) and ovarian malposition.

Intervention

Controlled ovarian hyperstimulation, transabdominal ultrasound-guided oocyte retrieval.

Main outcome measure

Total and mature oocytes retrieved, fertilization rate, embryo number, and quality.

Results

Five oocytes were retrieved transabdominally, using percutaneous needle puncture under ultrasound guidance.

Conclusion

In in vitro fertilization protocols, patients with Müllerian anomaly with vaginally inaccessible ovaries, transabdominal ultrasound-guided follicular aspiration is a safe and efficacious alternative technique for oocyte retrieval.

How to cite this article

Mishra VV, Choudhary S, Goyal PA, Aggarwal R. Transabdominal Ultrasound-guided Follicular Aspiration in Case of Müllerian Anomaly with Ovarian Malposition. J South Asian Feder Obst Gynae 2017;9(1):53-55.
An Intrauterine Pregnancy with Tubo-ovarian Torsion mimicking Ruptured Tubal Ectopic Pregnancy
Authors: Kaur Khushpreet , Kaur Navneet , Saini Surbhi
Published: February 2017

Aims and objectives

Adnexal torsion is a rare gynecological emergency that requires an early surgical intervention to save the adnexa from irreversible damage. Our study is about the clinical presentation and management of adnexal torsion in a pregnant woman in a tertiary care center.

Materials and methods

This case study was done in a pregnant woman who came with adnexal torsion in the first trimester in the labor room of Government Medical College and Patiala, Punjab, India.

Results

Torsion ovarian cyst is found in 5 per 10,000 women in pregnancy. The woman was suspected of having heterotopic pregnancy (an intrauterine pregnancy with ruptured tubal ectopic pregnancy). However, she was diagnosed as intrauterine pregnancy with adnexal torsion during laparotomy.

Conclusion

Adnexal torsion is a rare emergency, which requires a high index of clinical suspicion for diagnosis as the symptoms are nonspecific. Imaging helps in diagnosis, but most of them are diagnosed intraoperatively. Diagnosis is made clinically along with imaging modalities. Ultrasound with color Doppler is the most commonly used imaging modality. An early surgical intervention helps in salvaging the adnexa and prevents further complications.

How to cite this article

Kaur N, Kaur K, Saini S. An Intrauterine Pregnancy with Tubo-ovarian Torsion mimicking Ruptured Tubal Ectopic Pregnancy. J South Asian Feder Obst Gynae 2017;9(1):56-59.
Classification of Cesarean Sections in Small Private Maternity Hospitals as assessed by the Modified Robson Criteria (Canada)
Authors: Bhanap Prasad L
Published: February 2017

How to cite this article

Bhanap PL. Classification of Cesarean Sections in Small Private Maternity Hospitals as assessed by the Modified Robson Criteria (Canada). J South Asian Feder Obst Gynae 2017;9(1):68.
Fanfiction and the Author
Authors: Fathallah Judith
Published: February 2017

The production, reception and discussion of fanfiction is a major aspect of contemporary global media. Thus far, however, the genre has been subject to relatively little rigorous qualitative or quantitative study-a problem that Judith M. Fathallah remedies here through close analysis of fanfiction related to Sherlock, Supernatural, and Game of Thrones. Her large-scale study of the sites, reception, and fan rejections of fanfic demonstrate how the genre works to legitimate itself through traditional notions of authorship, even as it deconstructs the author figure and contests traditional discourses of authority. Through a process she identifies as the 'legitimation paradox', Fathallah demonstrates how fanfic hooks into and modifies the discourse of authority, and so opens new spaces for writing that challenges the authority of media professionals.
Designing Interdisciplinary Education
Authors: Greef Linda , Post Ger , Vink Christianne ,   Instituut voor Interdisciplinaire Studies, Wenting Lucy
Published: February 2017

Interdisciplinary education has been identified by many educational organisations in Europe and the United States as important for what lies ahead, and it has become a buzzword in some debates about educating for the future. Now, more than ever, higher education is challenged to educate students to see beyond the limits of their own discipline and to come up with innovative integrated solutions for our global challenges. But how do you define interdisciplinarity? How do you measure whether a student has integrated different insights? How do you challenge students to step across disciplinary borders?

'Designing interdisciplinary education' offers guidance and practical advice for university teachers who want to successfully develop, implement and sustain an interdisciplinary approach to their teaching.
Anthropogenic influences on the physical state of submicron particulate matter over a tropical forest
Authors: Bateman Adam P. , Gong Zhaoheng , Harder Tristan H. , de Sá Suzane S. , Wang Bingbing , Castillo Paulo , China Swarup , Liu Yingjun , O'Brien Rachel E. , Palm Brett B. , Shiu Hung-Wei , Cirino Glauber G. , Thalman Ryan , Adachi Kouji , Alexander M. Lizabeth , Artaxo Paulo , Bertram Allan K. , Buseck Peter R. , Gilles Mary K. , Jimenez Jose L. , Laskin Alexander , Manzi Antonio O. , Sedlacek Arthur , Souza Rodrigo A. F. , Wang Jian , Zaveri Rahul , Martin Scot T.
Published: February 2017

Abstract. The occurrence of nonliquid and liquid physical states of submicron atmospheric particulate matter (PM) downwind of an urban region in central Amazonia was investigated. Measurements were conducted during two intensive operating periods (IOP1 and IOP2) that took place during the wet and dry seasons of the GoAmazon2014/5 campaign. Air masses representing variable influences of background conditions, urban pollution, and regional- and continental-scale biomass burning passed over the research site. As the air masses varied, particle rebound fraction, an indicator of physical state, was measured in real time at ground level using an impactor apparatus. Micrographs collected by transmission electron microscopy confirmed that liquid particles adhered, while nonliquid particles rebounded. Relative humidity (RH) was scanned to collect rebound curves. When the apparatus RH matched ambient RH, 95 % of the particles adhered as a campaign average. Secondary organic material, produced for the most part by the oxidation of volatile organic compounds emitted from the forest, produces liquid PM over this tropical forest. During periods of anthropogenic influence, by comparison, the rebound fraction dropped to as low as 60 % at 95 % RH. Analyses of the mass spectra of the atmospheric PM by positive-matrix factorization (PMF) and of concentrations of carbon monoxide, total particle number, and oxides of nitrogen were used to identify time periods affected by anthropogenic influences, including both urban pollution and biomass burning. The occurrence of nonliquid PM at high RH correlated with these indicators of anthropogenic influence. A linear model having as output the rebound fraction and as input the PMF factor loadings explained up to 70 % of the variance in the observed rebound fractions. Anthropogenic influences can contribute to the presence of nonliquid PM in the atmospheric particle population through the combined effects of molecular species that increase viscosity when internally mixed with background PM and increased concentrations of nonliquid anthropogenic particles in external mixtures of anthropogenic and biogenic PM.
Cleaning up the air: effectiveness of air quality policy for SO2 and NOx emissions in China
Authors: van der A Ronald J. , Mijling Bas , Ding Jieying , Koukouli Maria Elissavet , Liu Fei , Li Qing , Mao Huiqin , Theys Nicolas
Published: February 2017

Abstract. Air quality observations by satellite instruments are global and have a regular temporal resolution, which makes them very useful in studying long-term trends in atmospheric species. To monitor air quality trends in China for the period 2005–2015, we derive SO2 columns and NOx emissions on a provincial level with improved accuracy. To put these trends into perspective they are compared with public data on energy consumption and the environmental policies of China. We distinguish the effect of air quality regulations from economic growth by comparing them relatively to fossil fuel consumption. Pollutant levels, per unit of fossil fuel, are used to assess the effectiveness of air quality regulations. We note that the desulfurization regulations enforced in 2005–2006 only had a significant effect in the years 2008–2009, when a much stricter control of the actual use of the installations began. For national NOx emissions a distinct decreasing trend is only visible from 2012 onwards, but the emission peak year differs from province to province. Unlike SO2, emissions of NOx are highly related to traffic. Furthermore, regulations for NOx emissions are partly decided on a provincial level. The last 3 years show a reduction both in SO2 and NOx emissions per fossil fuel unit, since the authorities have implemented several new environmental regulations. Despite an increasing fossil fuel consumption and a growing transport sector, the effects of air quality policy in China are clearly visible. Without the air quality regulations the concentration of SO2 would be about 2.5 times higher and the NO2 concentrations would be at least 25 % higher than they are today in China.
A novel method to derive the aerosol hygroscopicity parameter based only on measurements from a humidified nephelometer system
Authors: Kuang Ye , Zhao ChunSheng , Tao JiangChuan , Bian YuXuan , Ma Nan , Zhao Gang
Published: February 2017

Abstract. Aerosol hygroscopicity is crucial for understanding roles of aerosol particles in atmospheric chemistry and aerosol climate effects. Light scattering enhancement factor f(RH,λ) is one of the parameters describing aerosol hygroscopicity which is defined as f(RH,λ) = (σsp (RH,λ))/(σsp(dry,λ)) where σsp (RH, λ) or σsp (dry, λ) represents σsp at wavelength λ under certain RH or dry conditions. Traditionally, an overall hygroscopicity parameter κ can be retrieved from measured f(RH, λ), hereinafter referred to as κf(RH), by combining concurrently measured particle number size distribution (PNSD) and mass concentration of black carbon. In this paper, a new method is proposed to directly derive κf(RH) based only on measurements from a three-wavelength humidified nephelometer system. The advantage of this newly proposed novel approach is that it allows researchers to estimate κf(RH) without any additional information about PNSD and black carbon. Values of κf(RH) estimated from this new method agree very well with those retrieved by using the traditional method, the average difference between κf(RH) derived from newly proposed method and traditional method is 0.005 and the square of correlation coefficient between them is 0.99.
New-generation NASA Aura Ozone Monitoring Instrument (OMI) volcanic SO2 dataset: algorithm description, initial results, and continuation with the Suomi-NPP Ozone Mapping and Profiler Suite (OMPS)
Authors: Li Can , Krotkov Nickolay A. , Carn Simon , Zhang Yan , Spurr Robert J. D. , Joiner Joanna
Published: February 2017

Abstract. Since the fall of 2004, the Ozone Monitoring Instrument (OMI) has been providing global monitoring of volcanic SO2 emissions, helping to understand their climate impacts and to mitigate aviation hazards. Here we introduce a new-generation OMI volcanic SO2 dataset based on a principal component analysis (PCA) retrieval technique. To reduce retrieval noise and artifacts as seen in the current operational linear fit (LF) algorithm, the new algorithm, OMSO2VOLCANO, uses characteristic features extracted directly from OMI radiances in the spectral fitting, thereby helping to minimize interferences from various geophysical processes (e.g., O3 absorption) and measurement details (e.g., wavelength shift). To solve the problem of low bias for large SO2 total columns in the LF product, the OMSO2VOLCANO algorithm employs a table lookup approach to estimate SO2 Jacobians (i.e., the instrument sensitivity to a perturbation in the SO2 column amount) and iteratively adjusts the spectral fitting window to exclude shorter wavelengths where the SO2 absorption signals are saturated. To first order, the effects of clouds and aerosols are accounted for using a simple Lambertian equivalent reflectivity approach. As with the LF algorithm, OMSO2VOLCANO provides total column retrievals based on a set of predefined SO2 profiles from the lower troposphere to the lower stratosphere, including a new profile peaked at 13  km for plumes in the upper troposphere. Examples given in this study indicate that the new dataset shows significant improvement over the LF product, with at least 50 % reduction in retrieval noise over the remote Pacific. For large eruptions such as Kasatochi in 2008 (∼ 1700 kt total SO2) and Sierra Negra in 2005 (> 1100 DU maximum SO2), OMSO2VOLCANO generally agrees well with other algorithms that also utilize the full spectral content of satellite measurements, while the LF algorithm tends to underestimate SO2. We also demonstrate that, despite the coarser spatial and spectral resolution of the Suomi National Polar-orbiting Partnership (Suomi-NPP) Ozone Mapping and Profiler Suite (OMPS) instrument, application of the new PCA algorithm to OMPS data produces highly consistent retrievals between OMI and OMPS. The new PCA algorithm is therefore capable of continuing the volcanic SO2 data record well into the future using current and future hyperspectral UV satellite instruments.
Development and validation of a CCD-laser aerosol detective system for measuring the ambient aerosol phase function
Authors: Bian Yuxuan , Zhao Chunsheng , Xu Wanyun , Zhao Gang , Tao Jiangchuan , Kuang Ye
Published: February 2017

Abstract. Aerosol phase function represents the angular scattering property of aerosols, which is crucial for understanding the climate effects of aerosols that have been identified as one of the largest uncertainties in the evaluation of radiative forcing. So far, there is a lack of instruments to measure the aerosol phase function directly and accurately in laboratory studies and in-situ measurements. A portable instrument with high angular range and resolution has been developed for the measurement of the phase function of ambient aerosols in this study. The charge-coupled device-laser aerosol detective system (CCD-LADS), which measures the aerosol phase function both across a relatively wide angular range of 10°–170° and at a high resolution of 0.1°. The system includes a continuous laser, two charge-coupled device cameras and the corresponding fisheye lenses. The CCD-LADS was validated by both a laboratory study and a field measurement. The comparison between the aerosol phase function retrieved from CCD-LADS and Mie-scattering model shows good agreement. Compared with the TSI polar nephelometer, CCD-LADS has the advantages of wider detection range and better stability.
Retrieval of volcanic SO2 from HIRS/2 using optimal estimation
Authors: Miles Georgina M. , Siddans Richard , Grainger Roy G. , Prata Alfred J. , Fisher Bradford , Krotkov Nickolay , Kerridge Brian
Published: February 2017

Abstract. We present an optimal estimation (OE) retrieval scheme for stratospheric sulphur dioxide from the High Resolution Infrared Radiation Sounder 2 (HIRS/2) instruments on the NOAA and MetOp platforms, an infrared radiometer that has been operational since 1979. This algorithm is an improvement upon a previous method based on channel brightness temperature differences developed by Prata et al. (2003), which demonstrated the potential for monitoring volcanic SO2 using HIRS/2. The Prata method is fast but of limited accuracy. This algorithm uses an optimal estimation retrieval approach yielding increased accuracy for only moderate computational cost. This is principally achieved by fitting the column water vapour and accounting for its interference in the retrieval of SO2. A cloud and aerosol model is used to evaluate the sensitivity of the scheme to the presence of ash and water/ice cloud. This identifies that cloud or ash above 6 km limits the accuracy of the water vapour fit, increasing the error in the SO2 estimate. Cloud top height is also retrieved. The scheme is applied to a case study event, the 1991 eruption of Cerro Hudson in Chile. The total erupted mass of SO2 is estimated to be 2300 kT ± 600 kT. This confirms it as one of the largest events since the 1991 eruption of Pinatubo, and of comparable scale to the Northern Hemisphere eruption of Kasatochi in 2008. This retrieval method yields a minimum mass per unit area detection limit of 3 DU, which is slightly less than that for the Total Ozone Mapping Spectrometer (TOMS), the only other instrument capable of monitoring SO2 from 1979–1996. We show an initial comparison to TOMS for part of this eruption, with broadly consistent results. Operating in the infrared (IR), HIRS has the advantage of being able to measure both during the day and at night, and there have frequently been multiple HIRS instruments operated simultaneously for better than daily sampling. If applied to all data from the series of past and future HIRS instruments, this method presents the opportunity to produce a comprehensive and consistent volcanic SO2 timeseries spanning over 40 years.