bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chemical Profile Analysis and Comparison of Two Versions of the Classic TCM Formula Danggui Buxue Tang by HPLC-DAD-ESI-IT-TOF-MSn
Authors: Zhang Ya-Zhou , Xu Feng , Yi Tao , Zhang Jian-Ye , Xu Jun , Tang Yi-Na , He Xi-Chen , Liu Jing , Chen Hu-Biao
Published: April 2014

Danggui Buxue Tang (DBT) is a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) formula primarily used to treat symptoms associated with menopause in women. Usually, DBT is composed of one portion of Radix Angelicae Sinensis (RAS) and five portions of Radix Astragali (RA). Clinically, Radix Hedysari (RH) is sometimes used by TCM physicians to replace RA in DBT. In order to verity whether the chemical constituents of the DBT1 (RA:RAS = 5:1, w/w) and DBT2 (RH:RAS = 5:1, w/w) share similarities the chemical profiles of the two DBTs crude extracts and urine samples were analyzed and compared with the aid of HPLC-DAD-ESI-IT-TOF-MSn, which determines the total ion chromatogram (TIC) and multi-stage mass spectra (MSn). Then, the DBT1 and DBT2 were identified and compared on the basis of the TIC and the MSn. In the first experiment (with crude extracts), 69 compounds (C1–C69) were identified from the DBT1; 46 compounds (c1–c46) were identified from the DBT2. In the second experiment(with urine samples), 44 compounds (M1–M44) were identified from the urine samples of rats that had been administered DBT1, and 34 compounds (m1–m34) were identified from the urine samples of rats that had been administered DBT2. Identification and comparison of the chemical compositions were carried out between the DBT1 and DBT2 of the crude extracts and urine samples respectively. Our results showed that the two crude extracts of the DBTs have quite different chemical profiles. The reasons for their differences were that the special astragalosides in DBT1 and the isoflavonoid glycosides formed the malonic acid esters undergo single esterification and acetyl esters undergo acetylation in DBT1. In contrast, the urine from DBT1-treated rats strongly resembled that of DBT2-treated rats. These metabolites originate mainly from formononetin, calycosin and their related glycosides, and they were formed mainly by the metabolic process of reduction, deglycosylation, demethylation, hydrogenation and sulfation. The HPLC-DAD-ESI-IT-TOF-MSn method was successfully applied for the rapid chemical profiles evaluation of two DBTs and their related urine samples.
Secretory IgA is Concentrated in the Outer Layer of Colonic Mucus along with Gut Bacteria
Authors: Rogier Eric , Frantz Aubrey , Bruno Maria , Kaetzel Charlotte
Published: April 2014

Antibodies of the secretory IgA (SIgA) class comprise the first line of antigen-specific immune defense, preventing access of commensal and pathogenic microorganisms and their secreted products into the body proper. In addition to preventing infection, SIgA shapes the composition of the gut microbiome. SIgA is transported across intestinal epithelial cells into gut secretions by the polymeric immunoglobulin receptor (pIgR). The epithelial surface is protected by a thick network of mucus, which is composed of a dense, sterile inner layer and a loose outer layer that is colonized by commensal bacteria. Immunofluorescence microscopy of mouse and human colon tissues demonstrated that the SIgA co-localizes with gut bacteria in the outer mucus layer. Using mice genetically deficient for pIgR and/or mucin-2 (Muc2, the major glycoprotein of intestinal mucus), we found that Muc2 but not SIgA was necessary for excluding gut bacteria from the inner mucus layer in the colon. Our findings support a model whereby SIgA is anchored in the outer layer of colonic mucus through combined interactions with mucin proteins and gut bacteria, thus providing immune protection against pathogens while maintaining a mutually beneficial relationship with commensals.
Comparison of Regularization Methods in Fluorescence Molecular Tomography
Authors: Zhu Dianwen , Zhao Yue , Baikejiang Reheman , Yuan Zhen , Li Changqing
Published: April 2014

In vivo fluorescence molecular tomography (FMT) has been a popular functional imaging modality in research labs in the past two decades. One of the major difficulties of FMT lies in the ill-posed and ill-conditioned nature of the inverse problem in reconstructing the distribution of fluorophores inside objects. The popular regularization methods based on L2, L1 and total variation (TV ) norms have been applied in FMT reconstructions. The non-convex Lq(0 < q < 1) semi-norm and Log function have also been studied recently. In this paper, we adopt a uniform optimization transfer framework for these regularization methods in FMT and compare their individual, as well as the combined effects on both small, localized targets, such as tumors in the early stage, and large targets, such as liver. Numerical simulation studies and phantom experiments have been carried out, and we found that Lq with q near 1/2 performs the best in reconstructing small targets, while joint L2 and Log performs the best for large targets.
LEAFY and Polar Auxin Transport Coordinately Regulate Arabidopsis Flower Development
Authors: Yamaguchi Nobutoshi , Wu Miin-Feng , Winter Cara , Wagner Doris
Published: April 2014

The plant specific transcription factor LEAFY (LFY) plays a pivotal role in the developmental switch to floral meristem identity in Arabidopsis. Our recent study revealed that LFY additionally acts downstream of AUXIN RESPONSE FACTOR5/MONOPTEROS to promote flower primordium initiation. LFY also promotes initiation of the floral organ and floral organ identity. To further investigate the interplay between LFY and auxin during flower development, we examined the phenotypic consequence of disrupting polar auxin transport in lfy mutants by genetic means. Plants with compromised LFY activity exhibit increased sensitivity to disruption of polar auxin transport. Compromised polar auxin transport activity in the lfy mutant background resulted in formation of fewer floral organs, abnormal gynoecium development, and fused sepals. In agreement with these observations, expression of the auxin response reporter DR5rev::GFP as well as of the direct LFY target CUP-SHAPED COTYLEDON2 were altered in lfy mutant flowers. We also uncovered reduced expression of ETTIN, a regulator of gynoecium development and a direct LFY target. Our results suggest that LFY and polar auxin transport coordinately modulate flower development by regulating genes required for elaboration of the floral organs.
Investigating High-Resolution AMSR2 Sea Ice Concentrations during the February 2013 Fracture Event in the Beaufort Sea
Authors: Beitsch Alexander , Kaleschke Lars , Kern Stefan
Published: April 2014

Leads with a length on the order of 1000 km occurred in the Beaufort Sea in February 2013. These leads can be observed in Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) images under predominantly clear sky conditions. Sea ice concentrations (SIC) derived from the Advanced Microwave Scanning Radiometer 2 (AMSR2) using the Bootstrap (BST) algorithm fail to show the lead occurrences, as is visible in the MODIS images. In contrast, SIC derived from AMSR2 using the Arctic Radiation and Turbulence Interaction Study (ARTIST) sea ice algorithm (ASI) reveal the lead structure, due to the higher spatial resolution possible when using 89-GHz channel data. The ASI SIC are calculated from brightness temperatures interpolated on three different grids with resolutions of 3.125 km (ASI-3k), 6.25 km (ASI-6k) and 12.5 km (ASI-12k) to investigate the effect of the spatial resolution. Single-swath data is used to study the effect of temporal sampling in comparison to daily averages. For a region of interest in the Beaufort Sea, BST and ASI-3k show area-averaged SIC of 97%±0.7% and 93%±7.0%, respectively. For ASI-6k, the area-averaged SIC are similar to ASI-3k, while ASI-12k data show more agreement with BST. Visual comparison with MODIS True Color imagery exhibits good agreement with ASI-3k. In particular, ASI-3k are able to reproduce lead structure and size in the sea ice cover, which are not or are less visible in the other SIC data. The results will be valuable for selecting a SIC data product for studies of the interaction between ocean, ice, and atmosphere in the polar regions.
MAD-MEX: Automatic Wall-to-Wall Land Cover Monitoring for the Mexican REDD-MRV Program Using All Landsat Data
Authors: Gebhardt Steffen , Wehrmann Thilo , Ruiz Miguel , Maeda Pedro , Bishop Jesse , Schramm Matthias , Kopeinig Rene , Cartus Oliver , Kellndorfer Josef , Ressl Rainer , Santos Lucio , Schmidt Michael
Published: April 2014

Estimating forest area at a national scale within the United Nations program of Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation (REDD) is primarily based on land cover information using remote sensing technologies. Timely delivery for a country of a size like Mexico can only be achieved in a standardized and cost-effective manner by automatic image classification. This paper describes the operational land cover monitoring system for Mexico. It utilizes national-scale cartographic reference data, all available Landsat satellite imagery, and field inventory data for validation. Seven annual national land cover maps between 1993 and 2008 were produced. The classification scheme defined 9 and 12 classes at two hierarchical levels. Overall accuracies achieved were up to 76%. Tropical and temperate forest was classified with accuracy up to 78% and 82%, respectively. Although specifically designed for the needs of Mexico, the general process is suitable for other participating countries in the REDD+ program to comply with guidelines on standardization and transparency of methods and to assure comparability. However, reporting of change is ill-advised based on the annual land cover products and a combination of annual land cover and change detection algorithms is suggested.
Draft Genome Sequences of Two Bacillus thuringiensis Strains and Characterization of a Putative 41.9-kDa Insecticidal Toxin
Authors: Palma Leopoldo , Muñoz Delia , Berry Colin , Murillo Jesús , Caballero Primitivo
Published: April 2014

In this work, we report the genome sequencing of two Bacillus thuringiensis strains using Illumina next-generation sequencing technology (NGS). Strain Hu4-2, toxic to many lepidopteran pest species and to some mosquitoes, encoded genes for two insecticidal crystal (Cry) proteins, cry1Ia and cry9Ea, and a vegetative insecticidal protein (Vip) gene, vip3Ca2. Strain Leapi01 contained genes coding for seven Cry proteins (cry1Aa, cry1Ca, cry1Da, cry2Ab, cry9Ea and two cry1Ia gene variants) and a vip3 gene (vip3Aa10). A putative novel insecticidal protein gene 1143 bp long was found in both strains, whose sequences exhibited 100% nucleotide identity. The predicted protein showed 57 and 100% pairwise identity to protein sequence 72 from a patented Bt strain (US8318900) and to a putative 41.9-kDa insecticidal toxin from Bacillus cereus, respectively. The 41.9-kDa protein, containing a C-terminal 6× HisTag fusion, was expressed in Escherichia coli and tested for the first time against four lepidopteran species (Mamestra brassicae, Ostrinia nubilalis, Spodoptera frugiperda and S. littoralis) and the green-peach aphid Myzus persicae at doses as high as 4.8 µg/cm2 and 1.5 mg/mL, respectively. At these protein concentrations, the recombinant 41.9-kDa protein caused no mortality or symptoms of impaired growth against any of the insects tested, suggesting that these species are outside the protein’s target range or that the protein may not, in fact, be toxic. While the use of the polymerase chain reaction has allowed a significant increase in the number of Bt insecticidal genes characterized to date, novel NGS technologies promise a much faster, cheaper and efficient screening of Bt pesticidal proteins.
Hantavirus Reservoirs: Current Status with an Emphasis on Data from Brazil
Authors: De Oliveira Renata , Guterres Alexandro , Fernandes Jorlan , D'Andrea Paulo , Bonvicino Cibele , De Lemos Elba
Published: April 2014

Since the recognition of hantavirus as the agent responsible for haemorrhagic fever in Eurasia in the 1970s and, 20 years later, the descovery of hantavirus pulmonary syndrome in the Americas, the genus Hantavirus has been continually described throughout the World in a variety of wild animals. The diversity of wild animals infected with hantaviruses has only recently come into focus as a result of expanded wildlife studies. The known reservoirs are more than 80, belonging to 51 species of rodents, 7 bats (order Chiroptera) and 20 shrews and moles (order Soricomorpha). More than 80genetically related viruses have been classified within Hantavirus genus; 25 recognized as human pathogens responsible for a large spectrum of diseases in the Old and New World. In Brazil, where the diversity of mammals and especially rodents is considered one of the largest in the world, 9 hantavirus genotypes have been identified in 12 rodent species belonging to the genus Akodon, Calomys, Holochilus, Oligoryzomys, Oxymycterus, Necromys and Rattus. Considering the increasing number of animals that have been implicated as reservoirs of different hantaviruses, the understanding of this diversity is important for evaluating the risk of distinct hantavirus species as human pathogens.
Desalination Technologies: Hellenic Experience
Authors: Zotalis Konstantinos , Dialynas Emmanuel , Mamassis Nikolaos , Angelakis Andreas
Published: April 2014

Beyond doubt, desalination is growing rapidly worldwide. However, there are still obstacles to its wider implementation and acceptance such as: (a) high costs and energy use for fresh water production; (b) environmental impacts from concentrate disposal; (c) a complex, convoluted and time-consuming project permitting process; and (d) limited public understanding of the role, importance, benefits and environmental challenges of desalination. In this paper, a short review of desalination in Greece is being made. Data on the cost of desalination shows a decrease in the future and the potential of water desalination in Greece. The paper summarizes the current status in southeastern Greece (e.g., Aegean islands and Crete), and investigates the possibility of production of desalinated water from brackish water.
A set of plastid loci for use in multiplex fragment length genotyping for intraspecific variation in Pinus (Pinaceae)
Authors: Wofford Austin M. , Finch Kristen , Bigott Adam , Willyard Ann
Published: April 2014

• Premise of the study: Recently released Pinus plastome sequences support characterization of 15 plastid simple sequence repeat (cpSSR) loci originally published for P. contorta and P. thunbergii. This allows selection of loci for single‐tube PCR multiplexed genotyping in any subsection of the genus.

• Methods: Unique placement of primers and primer conservation across the genus were investigated, and a set of six loci were selected for single‐tube multiplexing. We compared interspecific variation between cpSSRs and nucleotide sequences of ycf1 and tested intraspecific variation for cpSSRs using 911 samples in the P. ponderosa species complex.

• Results: The cpSSR loci contain mononucleotide and complex repeats with additional length variation in flanking regions. They are not located in hypervariable regions, and most primers are conserved across the genus. A single PCR per sample multiplexed for six loci yielded 45 alleles in 911 samples.

• Discussion: The protocol allows efficient genotyping of many samples. The cpSSR loci are too variable for Pinus phylogenies but are useful for the study of genetic structure within and among populations. The multiplex method could easily be extended to other plant groups by choosing primers for cpSSR loci in a plastome alignment for the target group.
On the mechanism of photocatalytic reactions with eosin Y
Authors: Majek Michal , Filace Fabiana , Wangelin Axel Jacobi von
Published: April 2014

A combined spectroscopic, synthetic, and apparative study has allowed a more detailed mechanistic rationalization of several recently reported eosin Y-catalyzed aromatic substitutions at arenediazonium salts. The operation of rapid acid–base equilibria, direct photolysis pathways, and radical chain reactions has been discussed on the basis of pH, solvent polarity, lamp type, absorption properties, and quantum yields. Determination of the latter proved to be an especially valuable tool for the distinction between radical chain and photocatalytic reactions.
La carcéralisation de l'enfermement des mineurs en Belgique
Authors: Jaspart Alice
Published: April 2014

L’article s’intéresse au récent modèle d’enfermement des jeunes délinquants en Belgique : les centres fédéraux fermés. Les résultats de deux recherches ethnographiques seront mobilisés pour plonger au cœur du quotidien des deux centres fédéraux qui se sont successivement implantés du côté francophone. Par l’analyse proposée, l’article tend, au final, à participer au débat relatif à la « nouveauté » de ce genre d’établissements.
Les journaux de bord en situation de stage
Authors: Chartier Alain , Clémenson Aurélie , Greiner Claire-Marie
Published: April 2014

L’article analyse les journaux de bord (JDB) tenus par des étudiants de master 1 et 2 en didactique du français, pendant leurs différentes périodes de stage, afin de comprendre comment ce dispositif à la fois dialogique et personnel – les JDB ont été écrits sur une plateforme collaborative – peut s’intégrer dans la formation théorique et pratique des enseignants. La première partie analyse comment les étudiants gèrent la contrainte dialogique. La prise en compte du destinataire apparait comme un élément favorisant une posture distanciée. La seconde partie porte sur les aspects réflexifs. Le JDB a-t-il joué son rôle en devenant un espace de réflexion sur les périodes de stage ? L’analyse de l’alternance des passages narratifs et analytiques ainsi que la nature des commentaires aident les formateurs à comprendre la posture des étudiants-stagiaires face à la réalité scolaire qu’ils découvrent. Le JDB devient alors un outil pour réguler l’action de formation. La troisième partie constate l’absence de considérations didactiques dans les écrits des étudiants et interroge l’articulation entre la formation théorique du master et celle, pratique, des stages.
Embedding emotion awareness into e-learning environments
Authors: Feidakis Michalis , Daradoumis Thanasis , Caballé Santi , Conesa Jordi
Published: April 2014

In this work we investigate the importance of emotion awareness in e-learning environments, with emphasis to Computer Supported Collaborative Learning (CSCL) activities. Our presented solution involves a new conceptual model of emotions of interest in e-learning context. In the basis of this model, a computational model has been implemented employing self-report of emotions, affective feedback and effective emotion visualizations. Both models have been tested in real education settings, contributing to the research agenda.
The clinical profile, management, and overall outcome of aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage at the neurosurgical unit of a tertiary care center in India
Authors: Sodhi Harsimrat Bir Singh , Savardekar Amey R. , Mohindra Sandeep , Chhabra Rajesh , Gupta Vivek , Gupta Sunil K.
Published: April 2014

Background and Purpose: Several studies report good outcomes in selected patients of aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH). The purpose of our study is to project the clinical characteristics, management, and overall outcome of patients with aSAH presenting to a tertiary care center in India. Materials and Methods: A prospective study was conducted over a period of 10 months and all patients presenting with aSAH were studied. Patients presenting in all grades and managed with any type of intervention or managed conservatively were included to characterize their clinical and radiological profile at admission, during management, and at discharge. Outcome was assessed with the Glasgow Outcome Score (GOS) at 3 months follow-up. Results: Out of the 482 patients [mean age: 51.3 (±13.5); M: F = 1:1], 330 patients were fit to be taken up for intervention of the ruptured aneurysm, while 152 patients were unfit for any intervention. At 3 months follow-up, good outcome (GOS 4 and 5) was observed in 159 (33%), poor outcome (GOS 2 and 3) in 53 (11%), and death in 219 (45.4%) patients, while 51 patients (10.6%) were lost to follow-up. Most (95%) of the patients in the non-intervention group expired, and hence the high mortality rate, as we have analyzed the results of all patients of all grades, regardless of the treatment given. The predictors of poor outcome (GOS 1, 2, and 3) at 3 months follow-up, using multinomial regression model, were: World Federation of Neurological Surgeons (WFNS) grade IV and V (at admission and after adequate resuscitation) [odds ratio (OR): 35.1, 95% confidence interval (CI): 10.8-114.7] and presence of hypertension as a co-morbid illness [OR: 2.7, 95% CI: 1.6-5.6]. All patients showing acute infarction on computed tomography scan at presentation had a poor outcome. Conclusions: Despite recent advances in the treatment of patients with aSAH, the morbidity and mortality rates have failed to improve significantly in unselected patients and natural cohorts. This may be attributed to the natural history of aSAH, and calls for new strategies to diagnose and treat such patients before the catastrophe strikes.
Alcohol consumption and hangover patterns among migraine sufferers
Authors: Zlotnik Yair , Plakht Ygal , Aven Anna , Engel Yael , Am Neta Bar , Ifergane Gal
Published: April 2014

Aims: Alcohol hangover is a poorly understood cluster of symptoms occurring following a heavy consumption of alcohol. The term “delayed alcohol-induced headache” is often used synonymously. Our objective was to compare alcohol hangover symptoms in migraine sufferers and nonsufferers. Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, university students were asked to fill structured questionnaires assessing headache history, alcoholic consumption, and hangover symptoms (using the Hangover Symptom Scale (HSS)). Subjects were classified as suffering from migraine with or without aura and nonsufferers according the International Classification of Headache Disorders 2nd Edition (ICHD-II). The 13 hangover symptoms were divided by the researches into migraine-like and other nonmigraine-like symptoms. Results: Hangover symptoms among 95 migraine sufferers and 597 nonsufferers were compared. Migraine sufferers consumed less alcohol compared with the nonsufferers (mean drinks/week 2.34 ± 4.11 vs. 2.92 ± 3.58, P = 0.038) and suffered from higher tendency to migraine-like symptoms after drinking (mean 2.91 ± 3.43 vs. 1.85 ± 2.35, P = 0.002) but not to other hangover symptoms (mean 5.39 ± 6.31 vs. 4.34 ± 4.56, P = 0.1). Conclusions: Migraine sufferers consume less alcohol, especially beer and liquors, and are more vulnerable to migraine-like hangover symptoms than nonsufferers. The finding that the tendency to develop migraine attacks affects the hangover symptomatology may suggest a similarity in pathophysiology, and possibly in treatment options.
Prevalence of clinically important posterior fossa emissary veins on CT angiography
Authors: Pekcevik Yeliz , Sahin Hilal , Pekcevik Ridvan
Published: April 2014

Purpose: We assessed the prevalence of the clinically important posterior fossa emissary veins detected on computed tomography (CT) angiography. Materials and Methods: A total of 182 consecutive patients who underwent 64-slice CT angiography were retrospectively reviewed to determine the clinically important posterior fossa emissary veins. Results: Of 166 patients, the mastoid emissary vein (MEV) was not identified in 37 (22.3%) patients. It was found bilaterally in 82 (49.4%) and unilaterally in 47 (28.3%) patients. Only six patients had more than one MEV that were very small (<2 mm), and only five patients had very large (>5 mm) veins. The posterior condylar vein (PCV) was not identified in 39 (23.5%) patients. It was found bilaterally in 97 (58.4%) and unilaterally in 30 (18.1%) patients. Only 15 patients had a very large (>5 mm) PCV. The petrosquamosal sinus (PSS) was identified only in one patient (0.6%) on the left side. The occipital sinus was found in two patients (1.2%). Conclusions: The presence of the clinically important posterior fossa emissary veins is not rare. Posterior fossa emissary veins should be identified and systematically reported, especially prior to surgeries involving the posterior fossa and mastoid region.
Assessment of topiramate’s efficacy and safety in epilepsy
Authors: Gupta Prem P. , Thacker Anup Kumar , Haider Jamal , Dhawan Shilpi , Pandey Neerjesh , Pandey Awanish Kumar
Published: April 2014

Objective: To study the significance of topiramate (TPM) addition on seizure control in treatment of epilepsy. Design: A prospective open label add-on trial of TPM addition in patients with epilepsy was done. The events of baseline phase of 12 weeks followed by titration and maintenance phases were recorded. Assessment of the number of seizure and emergent adverse effects was done by a monthly visit for each case. Main Outcome Measures: Reduction of more than 50% mean seizure frequency or response ratio of 0.33 was taken as the criteria for responders. Statistical Analysis: Normal Z-test for significance of differences between two proportions and Chi-square test for presence of association was applied and mean age, median duration, sex ratio, percentage prevalence were depicted. Results: Significant responses to TPM in both partial as well as generalized seizures were observed (Z = 6.66, P < 0.001 and Z = 4.185, P < 0.01). The effect was more pronounced in patients with partial seizures. However, the overall response was highly significant (Z = 7.839, P < 0.001). The best response was noted at the dose of 200-300 mg/day (Z = 6.708, P < 0.001). More than 35% cases of partial and generalized seizures reported more than 75% reduction levels. The drug was well tolerated in more than 65% cases for side effects on psychosis, giddiness, and anorexia. Mild side effects were seen only in about less than 35% cases. Conclusions: TPM was found as a significantly effective add-on anticonvulsant with some limitation or mild side effects.
Endoscopic endonasal repair of spontaneous sphenoid sinus lateral wall meningocele presenting with cerebrospinal fluid leak
Authors: Yildirim Ali Erdem , Divanlioglu Denizhan , Cetinalp Nuri Eralp , Belen Ahmed Deniz
Published: April 2014

Spontaneous sphenoid sinus lateral wall meningoceles are rare lesions with an unknown etiology. Endoscopic endonasal technique is a considerable route in the treatment of this condition. The aim of this paper is to report the etiology, surgical technique, and outcome in a patient repaired via endoscopic endonasal approach. A 51-year-old male patient applied with rhinorrhea started three months ago after an upper respiratory infection. There were no history of trauma or sinus operation. Biochemical analysis of the fluid was positive for beta-2-transferrin. This asypthomatic patient had undergone for repairment of lateral sphenoid sinus meningocele with endoscopic endonasal transsphenoidal approach. After endoscopic endonasal meningocele closure procedure no complications occured and a quick recovery was observed. Endoscopic endonasal approach is an effective and safe treatment modality of spontaneous lateral sphenoid sinus meningoceles and efficient in anterior skull base reconstruction.
Epstein-Barr virus induced hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis in X-linked lymphoproliferative disease
Authors: Sankararaman Senthilkumar , Riel-Romero Rosario Maria , Jeroudi Majed , Gonzalez-Toledo Eduardo
Published: April 2014

X-linked lymphoproliferative disease (XLP) is a rare, often fatal genetic disorder characterized by extreme vulnerability to Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). EBV-induced hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is a known presentation in XLP. In EBV-induced HLH in XLP, the brain imaging findings in the acute phase include a non specific pattern. In this report, we highlight the magnetic resonance imaging and magnetic resonance spectroscopy findings in a child with EBV induced HLH in XLP.
Battered woman syndrome: An unusual presentation of pseudodystonia
Authors: Chandra Sadanandavalli Retnaswami , Issac Thomas Gregor
Published: April 2014

Pseudodystonia is the term used to define abnormal postures, which are not due to the disorders of the basal ganglia and is encountered very rarely in clinical practice and often difficult to distinguish from true dystonia syndromes. We report a rare case of a battered woman who was managed as restricted resistant dystonia with pharmacotherapy and intrathecal baclofen and referred for considering deep brain stimulation (DBS). The patient turned out to be a case of pseudodystonia due to bilateral hip dislocation. This was due to assault by a close relative and the history was masked by the patient for more than one and a half years. In a patient with late onset dystonia, who is resistant to the recommended treatment for dystonia along with atypical clinical features and electrophysiological parameters, pseudodystonia should always be considered as a possible diagnosis and evaluated for causes of the same.
Coordinated management of coastal hazard awareness and preparedness in the USVI
Authors: Watlington R. A. , Lewis E. , Drost D.
Published: April 2014

Abstract. As far back as history has been written in the islands today known as the US Virgin Islands (USVI), residents have had to endure and survive costly and deadly onslaughts from tropical storms such as the 1867 San Narciso Hurricane, Hurricane Hugo and Hurricane Marilyn. Keenly alerted by recent tragic events in the Indian Ocean in 2004, in Haiti in 2010 and in Japan in 2011, the USVI was reminded that it had suffered its greatest tsunami impact in a well-documented event that had followed the 1867 hurricane by fewer than three weeks. To address their community's continual vulnerability to coastal hazards, USVI emergency managers, scientists and educators, assisted by national and regional disaster management agencies and warning programs, have engaged programs for understanding, anticipating and mitigating these hazards. This paper focuses on how three public-serving institutions, the Virgin Islands Territorial Emergency Management Agency (VITEMA), the University of the Virgin Islands and the Caribbean Ocean Observing System have responded to the community's need for improved preparedness through programs of physical preparation, planning, research, observations, education and outreach. This report reviews some of the approaches and activities employed in the USVI in the hope of sharing their benefits with similarly vulnerable coastal communities.
Using self organising maps to explore ozone profile validation results – SCIAMACHY limb compared to ground-based lidar observations
Authors: van Gijsel J. A. E. , Zurita-Milla R. , Stammes P. , Godin-Beekmann S. , Leblanc T. , Marchand M. , McDermid I. S. , Stebel K. , Steinbrecht W. , Swart D. P. J.
Published: April 2014

Abstract. Traditional validation of atmospheric profiles is based on the intercomparison of two or more datasets in predefined ranges or classes of a given observational characteristic such as latitude or solar zenith angle. In this study we train a self organizing map (SOM) with a full time series of relative difference profiles of SCIAMACHY limb v5.02 and lidar ozone profiles from seven observation sites. Each individual observation characteristic is then mapped to the obtained SOM to investigate to which degree variation in this characteristic is explanatory for the variation seen in the SOM map. For the studied datasets, altitude-dependent relations for the global dataset were found between the difference profiles and studied variables. From the lowest altitude studied (18 km) ascending, the most influencing factors were found to be longitude, followed by solar zenith angle and latitude, sensor age and again solar zenith angle together with the day of the year at the highest altitudes studied here (up to 45 km). Clustering into three classes showed that there are also some local dependencies, with for instance one cluster having a much stronger correlation with the sensor age (days since launch) between 36 and 42 km. It was shown that the proposed approach provides a powerful tool for the exploring of differences between datasets without being limited to a-priori defined data subsets.
Signatures of the self-affinity of fracture and faulting in pre-seismic electromagnetic emissions
Authors: Potirakis S. M. , Eftaxias K. , Balasis G. , Kopanas J. , Antonopoulos G. , Kalimeris A.
Published: April 2014

Abstract. Of particular interest is the detection of precursors of an impending rupture. Theoretical, numerical studies along with laboratory experiments indicate that precursory signs of an impending failure are the sudden drop of fractal dimension and entropy, along with the anticorrelated, for large system sizes, rising of Hurst exponent and drop of a frequency–size power-law scaling exponent. Based on the widely accepted concept of the self-affine nature of faulting and fracture, we examine whether these precursory signs exist in the fracto-electromagnetic emissions resulting from the activation of a single fault.
The connection between long-term and short-term risk management strategies: examples from land-use planning and emergency management in four European case studies
Authors: Prenger-Berninghoff K. , Cortes V. J. , Sprague T. , Aye Z. C. , Greiving S. , Głowacki W. , Sterlacchini S.
Published: April 2014

Abstract. The need for continuous adaptation to complex and unforeseen events requires enhancing the links between planning and preparedness phases to reduce future risks in the most efficient way. In this context, the legal-administrative and cultural context has to be taken into account. This is why four case study areas of the CHANGES1 project (Nehoiu Valley in Romania, Ubaye Valley in France, Val Canale in Italy, and Wieprzówka catchment in Poland) serve as examples to highlight currently implemented risk management strategies for land-use planning and emergency preparedness. The strategies described in this paper were identified by means of exploratory and informal interviews in each study site. Results reveal that a dearth or, in very few cases, a weak link exists between spatial planners and emergency managers. Management strategies could benefit from formally intensifying coordination and cooperation between emergency services and spatial planning authorities. Moreover, limited financial funds urge for a more efficient use of resources and better coordination towards long-term activities. The research indicates potential benefits to establishing or, in some cases, strengthening this link and provides suggestions for further development in the form of information and decision support systems as a key connection point. Aside from the existent information systems for emergency management, it was found that a common platform, which integrates involvement of these and other relevant actors could enhance this connection and address expressed stakeholder needs. 1 Marie Curie ITN CHANGES – Changing Hydro-meteorological Risks as Analyzed by a New Generation of European Scientists.
The shallow meridional overturning circulation of the South China Sea
Authors: Zhang N. , Lan J. , Cui F.
Published: April 2014

Abstract. In this paper, the structure and formation mechanism of the annual-mean shallow meridional overturning circulation of the South China Sea (SCS) are investigated. A distinct clockwise overturning circulation is present above 400 m in the SCS on the climatological annual mean scale. The shallow meridional overturning circulation consists of downwelling in the northern SCS, a southward subsurface branch supplying upwelling in the southern SCS and a northward return flow of surface water. The formation mechanism is explored by studying causes of the branches constituting the meridional overturning circulation. The surface branch is driven by the annual mean zonal component of the wind stress which is predominantly westward. Another effect of the wind is Ekman pumping related subduction in the north hence the main source of downwelling there. The mixed layer depth reaches its maximum in winter and shoals in spring, which causes the thermocline to outcrop and ventilate. Part of the water mass from the bottom of the mixed layer subducts into the thermocline and flows southward along the isopycnals. The upwelling region is mainly along the Vietnam coast and in the open-ocean off it. In summer, the alongshore component of wind stress off Vietnam can cause coastal upwelling and the increase of alongshore wind off the coast can also cause great upwelling in the open-ocean off the Vietnam coast.
Dynamical Modelling and Controllability Analysis of an Underactuated 2-Dimensional TORA System on a Slope
Authors: Gao Bingtuan , Zhao Jianguo
Published: April 2014

The 2-Dimensional Translational Oscillators with Rotating Actuator (2DTORA) is a novel underactuated system which has one actuated rotor and two unactuated translational carts. This paper focuses on dynamical modelling and simulation analysis of the underactuated 2DTORA on a slope. Based on Lagrange equations, the dynamics of the 2DTORA is achieved by selecting a transverse position of a cart, a travelling position of a cart, and the rotor angle as the general coordinates and torque acting on the rotor as the general force. When the slope angle is set to zero, the dynamics of 2DTORA on a slope is reduced to that of 2DTORA on the horizontal plane. Moreover, by eliminating one degree of translational cart motion, the dynamics of 2DTORA is reduced to that of TORA which is a benchmark of underactuated systems. In addition, the equilibrium and controllability of the 2DTORA system on a slop are discussed. Finally, numerical simulations are performed to verify the feasibility of the developed dynamic models.
Circulating Cell-Free DNA in Sickle Cell Disease: Is It a Potentially Useful Biomarker?
Authors: Al-Humood Salah , Zueriq Rajaa , Al-Faris Lama , Marouf Rajaa , Al-Mulla Fahd
Published: April 2014

Context.—Vascular occlusion in sickle cell disease causes increased levels of plasma cell-free DNA as a result of cell death and tissue damage.

Objectives.—This study investigates plasma cell-free DNA concentrations in sickle cell disease patients, and aims at exploring the significance of plasma cell-free DNA as a potential biomarker in predicting its complications.

Design.—Plasma cell-free DNA levels were measured using real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction to quantitatively measure β-globin gene in blood samples from 57 sickle cell disease patients with acute vaso-occlusive crisis, 42 patients in steady state, 16 individuals with sickle cell trait, and 40 healthy controls.

Results.—Plasma cell-free DNA level was significantly elevated in samples from patients with acute vaso-occlusive crisis when compared with those in steady state (P = .002), and was significantly higher both in crisis and in steady state when compared with individuals with sickle cell trait and healthy controls (P < .001). There was no difference in cell-free DNA levels between individuals with sickle cell trait and healthy controls. There was no association between plasma cell-free DNA levels and various clinical complications of sickle cell disease and comorbidity.

Conclusions.—Plasma cell-free DNA, as quantified by polymerase chain reaction amplification of the β-globin and human telomerase reverse transcriptase genes, is increased in sickle cell disease patients in vaso-occlusive crisis and in steady state compared with individuals with sickle cell trait and healthy controls, and may be used as a tool to diagnose and monitor the sickle cell crisis and differentiate post–packed red cell transfusion sickle cell disease patients from individuals with sickle cell trait.
Evaluation of Chromogenic In Situ Hybridization for the Determination of Monosomy 3 in Uveal Melanoma
Authors: Gleeson Grainne , Larkin Annemarie , Horgan Noel , Kennedy Susan
Published: April 2014

Context.—Loss of 1 copy of chromosome 3 is considered a significant indicator of metastatic dissemination in uveal melanoma. Fresh or paraffin-embedded tumor tissue is most commonly used for current cytogenetic techniques for determining chromosome 3 status in uveal melanoma and often requires referral to an external specialist laboratory for analysis.

Objectives.—To assess the chromogenic in situ hybridization assay for detecting chromosome 3 alterations using frozen tumor imprints and to compare the results obtained with those obtained by standard fluorescence in situ hybridization or single-nucleotide polymorphism array techniques.

Design.—Chromogenic in situ hybridization was performed on 52 frozen uveal melanoma tumor imprints. The genetic status of 26 of the 52 cases had been determined previously by fluorescence in situ hybridization (group 1); the status of 26 cases had been determined using single-nucleotide polymorphism array (group 2).

Results.—Chromogenic in situ hybridization was successfully performed on 48 of 52 tumor imprints. Chromogenic in situ hybridization showed excellent agreement in all 24 cases determined by fluorescence in situ hybridization (100% concordance; κ = 1; P < .001; 95% confidence interval, 100%–100%), and disagreed in 4 of the 24 cases previously studied by single-nucleotide polymorphism array (83% concordance; κ = 0.67; P < .001; 95% confidence interval, 95%–39%). All 4 discordant cases were classified as disomic for chromosome 3 by chromogenic in situ hybridization and monosomic by SNP array. On histologic examination, the 4 discordant cases corresponded to 2 mixed cell tumors and 2 spindle cell tumors.

Conclusions.—Chromogenic in situ hybridization using tumor imprints is a reliable technique for determining chromosome 3 status in uveal melanoma. Furthermore, it can also be easily integrated into a routine histopathology laboratory.
Predictors of Red Cell Alloimmunization in Multitransfused Egyptian Patients With β-Thalassemia
Authors: Hussein Eiman , Desooky Nermeen , Rihan Abeer , Kamal Abeer
Published: April 2014

Context.—Thalassemia is a major health problem in Egypt. Red blood cell alloimmunization is an important complication in transfusion-dependent patients.

Objectives.—To determine alloimmunization prevalence in Egyptian patients with β-thalassemia and to evaluate risk factors that could influence alloimmunization, with the hope of minimizing transfusion-associated risks in those patients.

Design.—Records of 272 patients with β-thalassemia who are receiving regular blood transfusions, matched for ABO-Rh(D), were analyzed. Alloantibody identification was performed by DiaMed-ID microtyping system. Autoantibodies were detected by direct Coombs test.

Results.—Alloimmunization incidence was 22.8% with 123 alloantibodies detected in 62 patients. The most common alloantibody was Rh-related (37.4%; 46 of 123), comprising anti-E (14.6%; 18 of 123), anti-D (8.9%; 11 of 123), anti-C (8.9%; 11 of 123), and anti-c (4.9%; 6 of 123), followed by anti-Kell (26%; 32 of 123), → anti-MNS (9.8%; 12 of 123), → anti-Kidd (8.9%; 11 of 123) → anti-Duffy (8.1%; 10 of 123), → anti-Le (5.7%; 7 of 123), → anti-Lu (2.4%; 3 of 123), and → anti-P1 (1.6%; 2 of 123). Anti-D antibodies developed in 34.5% of all Rh-negative patients. Eighty percent of all anti-D antibodies developed in patients older than 18 years. Males had the highest alloimmunization incidence. Alloimmunization incidence increased with the number of units transfused (P = .01). Patients who received unfiltered blood had a higher alloimmunization rate than did those who always received leukoreduced blood (P < .001). Splenectomized patients had a higher alloimmunization rate (32%; 40 of 125) than did those who did not have a splenectomy (16.3%; 24 of 147; P = .003). Autoantibodies occurred in 1.5% (4 of 272) of all patients.

Conclusion.—Transfusion of leukoreduced and phenotypically matched cells for selective antigens may help reduce expenses and risks of alloimmunization in patients with thalassemia.
Detection of Malignancy in Body Fluids: A Comparison of the Hematology and Cytology Laboratories
Authors: Jerz Jaclyn L. , Donohue Rachel E. , Mody Rayomond R. , Schwartz Mary R. , Mody Dina R. , Zieske Arthur W.
Published: April 2014

Context.—Body fluids submitted to the hematology laboratory for cell counts may also be examined for the presence of malignancy. Previous studies evaluating the hematology laboratory's performance at detecting malignancy in body fluids have reached conflicting conclusions.

Objective.—To investigate the hematology laboratory's ability to detect malignancy in body fluids by comparison with cytology.

Design.—Retrospective analysis of 414 body fluid samples during an 18-month period, with introduction of new quality assurance measures after the first 210 cases. If no concurrent cytology was ordered, results were compared with recent previous and/or subsequent cytologic, histologic, or flow cytometric diagnoses.

Results.—Of the initial 210 cases, the hematology laboratory detected 3 of 13 malignancies diagnosed by concurrent cytology (23% sensitivity), with no false-positives (100% specificity). Malignancy was not identified on retrospective review of the hematology slides in the 10 discrepant cases. After the initial study, educational sessions on morphology for the medical technologists and a more thorough hematology-cytology correlation policy were implemented. The subsequent 204 hematology laboratory cases had increased sensitivity for the detection of malignancy (60%; 6 of 10). Definitive features of malignancy were seen in only one discrepant hematology laboratory slide on retrospective review. This case had not been flagged for hematopathologist review. None of the discrepancies before or after implementation of the additional quality assurance measures impacted patient care.

Conclusions.—Body fluid processing by the hematology laboratory is not optimized for the detection of malignancy. Concurrent cytologic examination is critical for the detection of malignancy, and needs to be considered as cost-saving measures are increasingly implemented.
Accuracy Assessment of Classical Isothermal Experiment in Drug Storage Period Studies
Authors: Jiafu Feng  , Zhigui Zhang  , Dixiao Yang
Published: April 2014

The purpose of this research was to assessment the effect of change of dissolved oxygen concentration on accuracy of classical isothermal experiment in ascorbic acid solution storage period studies. The experiments were performed at temperatures 35 ˚C, 40 ˚C, 45 ˚C and 50 ˚C, the apparent rate constant (kA) and the adjusted apparent rate constant (kA,A) were determined, respectively. By plotting lnkA and lnkA,A against 1/T resulted two lines, respectively. Then the apparent rate constant at 25 ˚C, kA,25˚C =5.168×10-4(mol×L-1×h-1) and the adjusted apparent rate constant at 25 ˚C, kA,A,25˚C=5.157×10-4(mol×L-1×h-1), was extrapolated, respectively. Both the calculated storage period of the experimented ascorbic acid solution were all 55h by kA,25˚C and kA,A,25˚C， respectively. The results suggested that the change of dissolved oxygen concentration has no effect on the accuracy of classical isothermal experiment in ascorbic acid solution storage period studies.