bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improved Enzyme Catalytic Characteristics upon Glutaraldehyde Cross-Linking of Alginate Entrapped Xylanase Isolated fromAspergillus flavusMTCC 9390
Authors: Bhushan Bharat , Pal Ajay , Jain Veena
Published: August 2015

Purified fungal xylanase was entrapped in alginate beads. Its further cross-linking using glutaraldehyde resulted in large enzyme aggregates which may function as both a catalyst and a support material for numerous substrate molecules. Enzyme cross-linking presented a negative impact on enzyme leaching during repeated washings and recovery of enzyme activity was substantial after twelve cycles of usage. The entrapment followed by cross-linking doubled the total bound activity and also greatly improved the enzyme stability at extreme chemical environment. The wide pH stability, better thermo- and storage stability, loweredKmvalue, and protection from some metal ions are salient achievements of present immobilization. The study shows the efficacy, durability, and sustainability of immobilized catalytic system which could be efficiently used for various juice processing operations.
Thermal Analysis of Direct Liquid-Immersed Solar Receiver for High Concentrating Photovoltaic System
Authors: Han Xinyue , Wang Qian , Zheng Jun , Qu Jian
Published: August 2015

Concentrator solar cells that operate at high solar concentration level must be cooled. In this paper, direct liquid immersion cooling of triple-junction solar cells (InGaP/InGaAs/Ge) is proposed as a heat dissipation solution for dense-array high concentrating photovoltaic (HCPV) systems. The advantages of triple-junction CPV cells immersed in a circulating dielectric liquid and dish HCPV technology are integrated into a CPV system to improve the system electrical conversion efficiency. An analytical model for the direct liquid-immersed solar receiver with triple-junction CPV cells is presented. The main outputs of the model are the components temperatures of the receiver and the system electrical efficiency. The influence of concentration factor, mass flow rate, and inlet liquid temperature on the operating temperature of the triple-junction CPV cells and the system electrical conversion efficiency are discussed. It is shown that the system electrical conversion efficiency is very high for a wide range of operating conditions. The three operating parameters have a major effect on the operating temperature of the triple-junction CPV cells and, by extension, system output power. The flow rate selection should match concentration factor to keep the triple-junction CPV cells temperature lower and increase the electrical conversion efficiency of the dense-array HCPV system.
Diffuse Alveolar Hemorrhage Associated with Warfarin Therapy
Authors: Kaya Bülent , Yildiz Ibrahim , Baha Reshat Mehmet , Zeytun Neslihan Ebru Eryaşar , Yetisgen Azize
Published: August 2015

Diffuse alveolar hemorrhage (DAH) is a life-threatening clinical pathologic syndrome caused by a variety of diseases. We report a case of DAH related to therapy of warfarin use. In this case report, we present the diffuse alveolar hemorrhage case as a rare and life-threatening complication of warfarin.
The Diagnostic and Therapeutic Challenges of Posttraumatic Iris Implantation Cysts: Illustrative Case Presentations and a Review of the Literature
Authors: Venkateswaran Nandini , Ching Steven S. T. , Fischer William , Lee Frank , Yeaney Gabrielle , Hindman Holly B.
Published: August 2015

Posttraumatic iris implantation cysts are rare ocular findings that are often associated with poor visual outcomes. Iris implantation cysts can present clinicians with diagnostic and therapeutic challenges given their variable presentations and frequently destructive nature. In this paper, we provide descriptions of two unusual cases of posttraumatic iris implantation cysts. The first case is of a recurrent keratin-filled iris implantation cyst that developed after open globe injury and intraocular implantation of cilia and was treated with cyst debulking procedures, injections of 5-Fluorouracil, and iridocyclectomy. The second case is of recurrent posttraumatic serous iris implantation cysts that were treated with laser, cyst aspiration, and injections of 5-Fluorouracil. We use these cases as a platform to discuss the different manifestations of implantation cysts, the roles of anterior segment optical coherence tomography, ultrasound biomicroscopy, and histopathology in facilitating timely and accurate diagnosis and review the range of available therapeutic modalities. We discuss conservative treatment approaches, including the novel use of 5-Fluorouracil therapy as an adjunct therapy, as well as more aggressive surgical excision requiring ocular reconstruction. Through a discussion of these cases and review of the literature, we provide recommendations to assist clinicians in managing this uncommon but vision-threatening condition and minimizing complications.
In Vitro Effect ofZingiber officinaleExtract on Growth ofStreptococcus mutansandStreptococcus sanguinis
Authors: Azizi Arash , Aghayan Shabnam , Zaker Saeed , Shakeri Mahdieh , Entezari Navid , Lawaf Shirin
Published: August 2015

Background and Objectives. Tooth decay is an infectious disease of microbial origin. Considering the increasing prevalence of antibiotic resistance due to their overuse and also their side effects, medicinal plants are now considered for use against bacterial infections. This study aimed to assess the effects of different concentrations ofZingiber officinaleextract on proliferation ofStreptococcus mutansandStreptococcus sanguinisin vitro.Materials and Methods. In this experimental study, serial dilutions of the extract were prepared in two sets of 10 test tubes for each bacterium (total of 20). Standard amounts of bacterial suspension were added; 100ƛof each tube was cultured on prepared solid agar plates and incubated at 37°C for 24 hours. Serial dilutions of the extract were prepared in another 20 tubes and 100ƛof each tube was added to blood agar culture medium while being prepared. The mixture was transferred to the plates. The bacteria were inoculated on plates and incubated as described.Results. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) was 0.02 mg/mL forS. mutansand 0.3 mg/mL forS. sanguinis. The minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) was 0.04 mg forS. mutansand 0.6 mg forS. sanguinis.Conclusion.Zingiber officinaleextract has significant antibacterial activity againstS. mutansandS. sanguiniscariogenic microorganisms.
Kim and Omberg Revisited: The Duality Approach
Authors: Battauz Anna , De Donno Marzia , Sbuelz Alessandro
Published: August 2015

We give an alternative duality-based proof to the solution of the expected utility maximization problem analyzed by Kim and Omberg. In so doing, we also provide an example of incomplete-market optimal investment problem for which the duality approach is conducive to an explicit solution.
A Maximal Concurrency and Low Latency Distributed Scheduling Protocol for Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Liu Xiaohui , Chen Yu , Zhang Hongwei
Published: August 2015

Existing work that schedules concurrent transmissions without collisions suffers from low channel utilization. We propose the Optimal Node Activation Multiple Access (ONAMA) protocol to achieve maximal channel spatial reuse through a distributed maximal independent set (DMIS) algorithm. To overcome DMIS's excessive delay in finding a maximal independent set, we devise a novel technique called pipelined precomputation that decouples DMIS from data transmission. We implement ONAMA on resource-constrained TelosB motes using TinyOS. Extensive measurements on two testbeds independently attest to ONAMA's superb performance compared to existing work: improving concurrency, throughput, and delay by a factor of 3.7, 3.0, and 5.3, respectively, while still maintaining reliability.
Utilisation of a Novel Test to Measure Severity and Treatment Efficacy of Posterior Blepharitis
Authors: Yun Steven T. H. , Woo David M. , Chong Calum W. K. , Liu Ying , Francis Katherine E. , Shah Saumil A. , Agar Ashish , Francis Ian C.
Published: August 2015

Background. This study evaluated the effectiveness of managing posterior blepharitis (PB) using a novel Posterior Blepharitis Management Protocol (PBMP).Design. Prospective, consecutive case series with 100% followup to one month.Participants. 27 patients (54 eyes) with PB from an Ophthalmology practice in Sydney, Australia.Methods. Each patient’s PB was assessed by grading the nature and expressibility of the central lower lid tarsal gland secretions on Compression Of The Eyelid (COTE). Patients were then instructed in detail to undertake daily PB management sessions at home using our modified PBMP.Main Outcome Measures. On a subjective scale, patients compared their symptoms at one month with baseline. COTE scores were reevaluated to assess the objective effectiveness of each individual’s PBMP. COTE scoring was described as grades 1 (clear oil), 2 (pus, liquid), 3 (toothpaste-like secretions), and 4 (complete tarsal gland obstruction).Results. Patients reported a mean 77.8% ± 13.5% subjective improvement in symptoms. There was a trend towards improvement in COTE grading at one month compared with baseline: grades 1 (0 to 7.4%), 2a (22.2 to 16.6%), 2b (7.4 to 3.7%), 3 (18.5 to 27.7%), and 4 (51.8 to 44%).Conclusions. PBMP provided a rapid, inexpensive, simple, effective, and safe method of treating PB.
Nutrient Enrichment Mediates the Relationships of Soil Microbial Respiration with Climatic Factors in an Alpine Meadow
Authors: Zong Ning , Jiang Jing , Shi Peili , Song Minghua , Shen Zhenxi , Zhang Xianzhou
Published: August 2015

Quantifying the effects of nutrient additions on soil microbial respiration (Rm) and its contribution to soil respiration (Rs) are of great importance for accurate assessment ecosystem carbon (C) flux. Nitrogen (N) addition either alone (coded as LN and HN) or in combination with phosphorus (P) (coded as LN + P and HN + P) were manipulated in a semiarid alpine meadow on the Tibetan Plateau since 2008. Either LN or HN did not affect Rm, while LN + P enhanced Rm during peak growing periods, but HN + P did not affect Rm. Nutrient addition also significantly affected Rm/Rs, and the correlations of Rm/Rs with climatic factors varied with years. Soil water content (Sw) was the main factor controlling the variations of Rm/Rs. During the years with large rainfall variations, Rm/Rs was negatively correlated with Sw, while, in years with even rainfall, Rm/Rs was positively correlated with Sw. Meanwhile, in N + P treatments the controlling effects of climatic factors on Rm/Rs were more significant than those in CK. Our results indicate that the sensitivity of soil microbes to climatic factors is regulated by nutrient enrichment. The divergent effects of Sw on Rm/Rs suggest that precipitation distribution patterns are key factors controlling soil microbial activities and ecosystem C fluxes in semiarid alpine meadow ecosystems.
“High Frequency/Small Tidal Volume Differential Lung Ventilation”: A Technique of Ventilating the Nondependent Lung of One Lung Ventilation for Robotically Assisted Thoracic Surgery
Authors: Shoman Bassam M. , Ragab Hany O. , Mustafa Ammar , Mazhar Rashid
Published: August 2015

With the introduction of new techniques and advances in the thoracic surgery fields, challenges to the anesthesia techniques had became increasingly exponential. One of the great improvements that took place in the thoracic surgical field was the use of the robotically assisted thoracic surgical procedure and minimally invasive endoscopic thoracic surgery. One lung ventilation technique represents the core anesthetic management for the success of those surgical procedures. Even with the use of effective one lung ventilation, the patient hemodynamics and respiratory parameters could be deranged and could not be tolerating the procedure that could compromise the end result of surgery. We are presenting our experience in managing one patient who suffered persistent hypoxia and hemodynamic instability with one lung ventilation for robotically assisted thymectomy procedure and how it was managed till the completion of the surgery successfully.
Rotation and Magnetic Field Effect on Surface Waves Propagation in an Elastic Layer Lying over a Generalized Thermoelastic Diffusive Half-Space with Imperfect Boundary
Authors: Abo-Dahab S. M. , Lotfy Kh. , Gohaly A.
Published: August 2015

The aim of the present investigation is to study the effects of magnetic field, relaxation times, and rotation on the propagation of surface waves with imperfect boundary. The propagation between an isotropic elastic layer of finite thickness and a homogenous isotropic thermodiffusive elastic half-space with rotation in the context of Green-Lindsay (GL) model is studied. The secular equation for surface waves in compact form is derived after developing the mathematical model. The phase velocity and attenuation coefficient are obtained for stiffness, and then deduced for normal stiffness, tangential stiffness and welded contact. The amplitudes of displacements, temperature, and concentration are computed analytically at the free plane boundary. Some special cases are illustrated and compared with previous results obtained by other authors. The effects of rotation, magnetic field, and relaxation times on the speed, attenuation coefficient, and the amplitudes of displacements, temperature, and concentration are displayed graphically.
Photocatalytic Improvement under Visible Light in TiO2 Nanoparticles by Carbon Nanotube Incorporation
Authors: Wongaree Mathana , Chiarakorn Siriluk , Chuangchote Surawut
Published: August 2015

Photocatalytic activity of TiO2 nanoparticles was successfully enhanced by addition of multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) to make CNT/TiO2 nanocomposites by sol‐gel method at ambient temperature. CNT treated by HNO3 : H2SO4 treatment (1 : 3 v/v) was mixed with TiO2 nanoparticles at various molar ratios and calcination temperatures. The optimal molar ratio of CNT : TiO2 was found at 0.05 : 1 by weight. The optimal calcination condition was 400°C for 3 h. From the results, the photocatalytic activities of CNT/TiO2 nanocomposites were determined by the decolorization of 1 × 10−5 M methylene blue (MB) under visible light. CNT/TiO2 nanocomposites could enhance the photocatalytic activity and showed faster for the degradation of MB with only 90 min. The degradation efficiency of the MB solution with CNT/TiO2 nanocomposite achieved 70% which was higher than that with pristine TiO2 (22%). This could be explained that CNT prevents TiO2 from its agglomeration which could further enhance electron transfer in the composites. In addition, CNT/TiO2 nanocomposites had high specific surface area (202 m2/g) which is very promising for utilization as a photocatalyst for environmental applications.
Evaluation of Antioxidant and Antibacterial Potentials ofNigella sativaL. Suspension Cultures under Elicitation
Authors: Chaudhry Hera , Fatima Nida , Ahmad Iffat Zareen
Published: August 2015

Nigella sativaL. (family Ranunculaceae) is an annual herb of immense medicinal properties because of its major active components (i.e., thymoquinone (TQ), thymohydroquinone (THQ), and thymol (THY)). Plant tissue culture techniques like elicitation,Agrobacteriummediated transformation, hairy root culture, and so on, are applied for substantial metabolite production. This study enumerates the antibacterial and antioxidant potentials ofN. sativaepicotyl suspension cultures under biotic and abiotic elicitation along with concentration optimization of the elicitors for enhanced TQ and THY production. Cultures under different concentrations of pectin and manganese chloride (MnCl2) elicitation (i.e., 5 mg/L, 10 mg/L, and 15 mg/L) showed that the control, MnCl210 mg/L, and pectin 15 mg/L suspension extracts greatly inhibited the growth ofE. coli,S. typhimurium, andS. aureus(MIC againstE. coli, i.e.,2.35±0.8,2.4±0.2, and2.46±0.5, resp.). Elicitation decreased SOD enzyme activity whereas CAT enzyme activity increased remarkably under MnCl2elicitation. MnCl210 mg/L and pectin 15 mg/L elicitation enhanced the DPPH radical inhibition ability, but ferric scavenging activity was comparable to the control. TQ and THY were quantified by LC-MS/MS in the cultures with high bioactive properties revealing maximum content under MnCl210 mg/L elicitation. Therefore, MnCl2elicitation can be undertaken on large scale for sustainable metabolite production.
Effects of Traditional Chinese Medicine on Chemotherapy-Induced Myelosuppression and Febrile Neutropenia in Breast Cancer Patients
Authors: Tian Huan , Qin Wei , Wu Wenjing , Guo Pi , Lu Yong , Liu Pengxi , Liu Qiang , Su Fengxi
Published: August 2015

Title. Chemotherapy-induced myelosuppression lowers the quality of life in breast cancer patients and causes many complications. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a widely used complementary and alternative medicine therapies.Objective. To study whether TCM can reduce the incidence of chemotherapy-induced leukopenia, neutropenia, and febrile neutropenia (FN) in breast cancer patients.Methods. The data were analyzed retrospectively between patients who received TCM treatment (group 1,n=453) and patients who did not receive TCM treatment (group 2,n=359). Significant risk factors associated with the occurrence of chemotherapy-induced leukopenia, neutropenia, and FN were identified using multivariate analysis. Propensity score-matched patients were analyzed to adjust for any baseline differences.Results. Group 1 patients had a significantly lower rate of chemotherapy-induced severe leukopenia, neutropenia, and FN, compared with group 2 (43% versus 71%,P<0.0001, 72% versus 78%,P=0.005, 6% versus 24%,P<0.0001, resp.). Multivariate analysis revealed that chemotherapy regimens containing anthracyclines combined with paclitaxel or docetaxel were the most significant predictor. Subgroup analysis indicated that TCM treatment showed benefit in relieving chemotherapy-induced leukopenia and FN in most chemotherapy regimens.Conclusions. TCM treatment could lower the risk of severe chemotherapy-induced leukopenia, neutropenia, and FN in breast cancer patients.
Should I Stop Thinking About It: A Computational Exploration of Reappraisal Based Emotion Regulation
Authors: Si Mei
Published: August 2015

Agent-based simulation of people’s behaviors and minds has become increasingly popular in recent years. It provides a research platform to simulate and compare alternative psychological and social theories, as well as to create virtual characters that can interact with people or among each other to provide pedagogical or entertainment effects. In this paper, we investigate computationally modeling people’s coping behaviors and in particular in relation to depression, in decision-theoretic agents. Recent studies have suggested that depression can result from failed emotion regulation under limited cognitive resources. In this work, we demonstrate how reappraisal can fail under high levels of stress and limited cognitive resources using an agent-based simulation. Further, we explored the effectiveness of reappraisal under different conditions. Our experiments suggest that for people who are more likely to recall positive memories, it is more beneficial to think about the recalled events from multiple perspectives. However, for people who are more likely to recall negative memories, the better strategy is to not evaluate the recalled events against multiple goals.
Ferritin as a Risk Factor for Glucose Intolerance amongst Men and Women Originating from the Indian Subcontinent
Authors: Hughes Elizabeth A. , Patel Jeetesh V. , Bredow Zosia , Gill Paramjit S. , Chackathayil Julia , Agaoglu Elif S. , Flinders Paul , Mirrielees Rebecca
Published: August 2015

Background. Serum ferritin predicts the onset of diabetes; however, this relationship is not clear amongst South Asians, a population susceptible to glucose intolerance and anaemia.Objective. This study tests whether ferritin levels reflect glucose tolerance in South Asians, independent of lifestyle exposures associated with Indian or British residence.Methods. We randomly sampled 227 Gujaratis in Britain (49.8 (14.4) years, 50% men) and 277 contemporaries living in Gujarati villages (47.6 (11.8) years, 41% men). Both groups underwent a 75 g oral-glucose-tolerance test. We evaluated lifestyle parameters with standardised questionnaires and conducted comprehensive clinical and lab measurements.Results. Across sites, the age-adjusted prevalence of diabetes was 9.8%. Serum ferritin was higher amongst diabetics (P=0.005), irrespective of site, gender, and central obesity (P≤0.02), and was associated with fasting and postchallenge glucose, anthropometry, blood pressure, triglycerides, and nonesterified fatty acids (P<0.001). Diabetes was less in those with low ferritin (<20 mg/mL),P<0.008, and risk estimate = 0.35 (95% CI 0.15–0.81), as were blood pressure and metabolic risk factors. On multivariate analysis, diabetes was independently associated with ferritin (P=0.001) and age (P<0.001).Conclusion. Ferritin levels are positively associated with glucose intolerance in our test groups, independent of gender and Indian or UK lifestyle factors.
Validity and Reliability of Farsi Version of Youth Sport Environment Questionnaire
Authors: Eshghi Mohammad Ali , Kordi Ramin , Memari Amir Hossein , Ghaziasgar Ahmad , Mansournia Mohammad-Ali , Zamani Sani Seyed Hojjat
Published: August 2015

The Youth Sport Environment Questionnaire (YSEQ) had been developed from Group Environment Questionnaire, a well-known measure of team cohesion. The aim of this study was to adapt and examine the reliability and validity of the Farsi version of the YSEQ. This version was completed by 455 athletes aged 13–17 years. Results of confirmatory factor analysis indicated that two-factor solution showed a good fit to the data. The results also revealed that the Farsi YSEQ showed high internal consistency, test-retest reliability, and good concurrent validity. This study indicated that the Farsi version of the YSEQ is a valid and reliable measure to assess team cohesion in sport setting.
Sphingosine Kinase-1 Protects Multiple Myeloma from Apoptosis Driven by Cancer-Specific Inhibition of RTKs
Authors: Tsukamoto Shuntaro , Huang Yuhui , Kumazoe Motofumi , Lesnick Connie , Yamada Shuhei , Ueda Naoki , Suzuki Takashi , Yamashita Shuya , Kim Yoon Hee , Fujimura Yoshinori , Miura Daisuke , Kay Neil E. , Shanafelt Tait D. , Tachibana Hirofumi
Published: August 2015

Activation of acid sphingomyelinase (ASM) leads to ceramide accumulation and induces apoptotic cell death in cancer cells. In the present study, we demonstrate that the activation of ASM by targeting cancer-overexpressed 67-kDa laminin receptors (67LR) induces lipid raft disruption and inhibits receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) activation in multiple myeloma cells. Sphingosine kinase 1 (SphK1), a negative regulator of ceramide accumulation with antiapoptotic effects, was markedly elevated in multiple myeloma cells. The silencing of SphK1 potentiated the apoptotic effects of the green tea polyphenol epigallocatechin-3-O-gallate (EGCG), an activator of ASM through 67LR. Furthermore, the SphK1 inhibitor safingol synergistically sensitized EGCG-induced proapoptotic cell death and tumor suppression in multiple myeloma cells by promoting the prevention of RTK phosphorylation and activation of death-associated protein kinase 1 (DAPK1). We propose that targeting 67LR/ASM and SphK1 may represent a novel therapeutic strategy against multiple myeloma. Mol Cancer Ther; 14(10); 2303–12. ©2015 AACR.
Intrinsic Resistance to Cixutumumab Is Conferred by Distinct Isoforms of the Insulin Receptor
Authors: Forest Amelie , Amatulli Michael , Ludwig Dale L. , Damoci Christopher B. , Wang Ying , Burns Colleen A. , Donoho Gregory P. , Zanella Nina , Fiebig Heinz H. , Prewett Marie C. , Surguladze David , DeLigio James T. , Houghton Peter J. , Smith Malcolm A. , Novosiadly Ruslan
Published: August 2015

Despite a recent shift away from anti–insulin-like growth factor I receptor (IGF-IR) therapy, this target has been identified as a key player in the resistance mechanisms to various conventional and targeted agents, emphasizing its value as a therapy, provided that it is used in the right patient population. Molecular markers predictive of antitumor activity of IGF-IR inhibitors remain largely unidentified. The aim of this study is to evaluate the impact of insulin receptor (IR) isoforms on the antitumor efficacy of cixutumumab, a humanized mAb against IGF-IR, and to correlate their expression with therapeutic outcome. The data demonstrate that expression of total IR rather than individual IR isoforms inversely correlates with single-agent cixutumumab efficacy in pediatric solid tumor models in vivo. Total IR, IR-A, and IR-B expression adversely affects the outcome of cixutumumab in combination with chemotherapy in patient-derived xenograft models of lung adenocarcinoma. IR-A overexpression in tumor cells confers complete resistance to cixutumumab in vitro and in vivo, whereas IR-B results in a partial resistance. Resistance in IR-B–overexpressing cells is fully reversed by anti–IGF-II antibodies, suggesting that IGF-II is a driver of cixutumumab resistance in this setting. The present study links IR isoforms, IGF-II, and cixutumumab efficacy mechanistically and identifies total IR as a biomarker predictive of intrinsic resistance to anti–IGF-IR antibody.

Implications: This study identifies total IR as a biomarker predictive of primary resistance to IGF-IR antibodies and provides a rationale for new clinical trials enriched for patients whose tumors display low IR expression. Mol Cancer Res; 13(12); 1615–26. ©2015 AACR.
Fine-Needle Aspiration Cytology of Metastatic Plasmacytoid Urothelial Carcinoma: Report of Four Cases Including a Case of Mixed Plasmacytoid and Micropapillary Morphology
Authors: Wu Howard H. , Kao Chia-Sui , Grignon David J.
Published: August 2015

Objectives: The aim of this study was to report a small series of fine-needle aspiration (FNA) cytology of the plasmacytoid variant of urothelial carcinoma (PVUC). Study Design: A computerized search of our laboratory information system was performed for the 5-year period between January 2008 and January 2013 to identify all FNA cases in which the corresponding surgical pathology cases were diagnosed as PVUC. Results: The 4 cases identified were from 2 men (aged 56 and 64 years) and 2 women (aged 72 and 46 years). The FNA smears demonstrated low-to-moderate cellularity and consisted predominantly of single and dyshesive, medium-sized tumor cells with eccentrically located nuclei and a moderate-to-abundant dense cytoplasm. The nuclei were oval with slightly irregular nuclear membranes and contained coarse granular chromatin with inconspicuous or small nucleoli. There was moderate nuclear variation in size. The nuclear-to-cytoplasmic ratio ranged from <1 to 3. Binucleation, cytoplasmic vacuoles, and perinuclear hof were occasionally seen. Conclusions: FNA cytology of PVUC shares features with plasma cell neoplasms, lobular carcinoma of the breast, and signet ring cell carcinoma of the stomach. Being aware of the patient's clinical history and the potential diagnostic pitfall of this rare variant of urothelial carcinoma is important for an accurate diagnosis on FNA biopsy.
Gender-Related Differences in Patients Presenting with Suspected Acute Coronary Syndromes: Clinical Presentation, Biomarkers and Diagnosis
Authors: Stähli B.E. , Gebhard C. , Yonekawa K. , Gebhard C.E. , Altwegg L.A. , von Eckardstein A. , Hersberger M. , Novopashenny I. , Wolters R. , Wischnewsky M.B. , Lüscher T.F. , Maier W.
Published: August 2015

Objectives: Gender differences in patients presenting with suspected acute coronary syndromes (ACS) have not yet been fully characterized. The aim of this study was to assess gender-related disparities in clinical profiles, biomarkers and diagnoses of patients with suspected ACS. Methods: This single-centre, prospective cohort study included 377 consecutive patients presenting with suspected ACS to the emergency department. Suspected ACS was defined as a request for conventional troponin T (c-cTnT) measurements on clinical grounds. Results: Women were older than men (p = 0.004), and had a lower prevalence of known coronary artery and peripheral vascular disease (p < 0.05). c-cTnT was positive in 8% of female and in 14% of male patients (p = 0.16), TIMI risk score and cardiac biomarkers including c-cTnT, hs-cTnT, myoglobin, creatine kinase, N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide, myeloid-related protein 8/14 and pregnancy-associated plasma protein A were lower in women (p < 0.05). Women were less frequently diagnosed with ACS (30 vs. 51%), and were not referred for urgent coronary angiography as often as men (p < 0.001). In multivariate analysis, female gender was associated with a lower referral for coronary angiography (HR 0.41, 95% CI 0.23-0.78, p = 0.006). Conclusions: In patients with suspected ACS, women presented with different biomarker profiles, and were less often diagnosed with ACS and referred to coronary angiography.
Health-Related Quality of Life in Chronic Pruritus: An Analysis Related to Disease Etiology, Clinical Skin Conditions and Itch Intensity
Authors: Warlich Benjamin , Fritz Fleur , Osada Nani , Bruland Philipp , Stumpf Astrid , Schneider Gudrun , Dugas Martin , Pfleiderer Bettina , Ständer Sonja
Published: August 2015

Background: It is unknown if health-related quality of life (HRQoL) differs between diseases associated with chronic pruritus (CP). Objective: To analyze HRQoL in relation to age, gender, skin lesions (primary vs. scratch-induced secondary) and itch intensity. Methods: Consecutive patients of our itch clinic were assessed with the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) and visual analogue scale (VAS). Results: In 510 CP patients (282 females; median age, 61.4 years), DLQI scores and VAS values were highly correlated, irrespective of the type of skin lesion. Overall, women had a lower HRQoL compared to men (females: 10.7 ± 6.7, males: 8.9 ± 6.7), but female gender was only associated with worse quality of life in patients <65 years old. Conclusion: HRQoL impairment in CP is highly influenced by pruritus intensity but not to the visible skin lesion or underlying cause. With limitations to item bias, DLQI is a suitable instrument for estimating quality of life impairment by CP.
Deletion 18p11.32p11.31 in a Child with Global Developmental Delay and Atypical, Drug-Resistant Absence Seizures
Authors: Verrotti Alberto , Palka Chiara , Prezioso Giovanni , Alfonsi Melissa , Calabrese Giuseppe , Palka Giandomenico , Chiarelli Francesco
Published: August 2015

We report the first case of an 18p11.32 deletion, detected by array CGH, associated with a drug-resistant form of atypical absence epilepsy, global developmental delay and no signs of holoprosencephaly (HPE). In particular, this region encompasses 19 genes, and none of these genes have been strictly associated with epilepsy. Among these, TGIF1 is expressed in the fetal and adult nervous system, and its deletion has been related to central nervous system diseases. TGIF1 deletions have previously been reported in patients with a comparable phenotype as seen in our case and in children whose neurological signs and symptoms were considerable, but not epileptiform. Mutations and deletions involving the TGIF1 gene have been described in patients with HPE in an autosomal dominant model of inheritance. However, TGIF1 mutations have also been reported in normal individuals and in patients with mental retardation or showing a very mild phenotype, suggesting the characteristic of incomplete penetrance and variable expressivity. Therefore, a TGIF1 deletion may not be always related to HPE, and it may have a link to the development of epilepsy.
Assessment of the Combined Treatment with Umbelliferone and Four Classical Antiepileptic Drugs Against Maximal Electroshock-Induced Seizures in Mice
Authors: Zagaja Mirosław , Andres-Mach Marta , Skalicka-Woźniak Krystyna , Rękas Anna R. , Kondrat-Wróbel Maria W. , Gleńsk Michał , Łuszczki Jarogniew J.
Published: August 2015

Background/Aims: The aim of this study was to determine the effects of umbelliferone (7-hydroxycoumarin; UMB) on the anticonvulsant potency of four classical antiepileptic drugs (carbamazepine (CBZ), phenytoin (PHT), phenobarbital (PB) and valproate (VPA)) in the mouse maximal electroshock-induced seizure (MES) model. Results: UMB administered systemically intraperitoneally (ip) in a dose of 150 mg/kg significantly elevated the threshold for maximal electroconvulsions (p < 0.05) in mice. Moreover, UMB (150 mg/kg) co-administered with PB and VPA significantly enhanced the anticonvulsant potency of these drugs by reducing their median effective doses (ED50 values) from 35.39 to 21.78 mg/kg (p < 0.01) for PB, and from 281.4 to 215.5 mg/kg (p < 0.01) for VPA. In contrast, UMB (150 mg/kg, ip) had no significant effect on the antiseizure activity of CBZ and PHT in the mouse MES model. Neither total brain PB, nor total brain VPA concentrations were altered after ip administration of UMB, indicating a pharmacodynamic nature of interactions between the tested drugs. Conclusions: The selective potentiation of the anticonvulsant potency of PB and VPA by UMB, and lack of any pharmacokinetic interactions between drugs, make the combinations of UMB with PB or VPA worthy of consideration for epileptic patients who are refractory to standard antiepileptic treatment.
The Challenges and Prospects of E-learning in National Open University of Nigeria
Authors: Aboderin Olukayode Solomon
Published: August 2015

The study investigated the challenges and prospects of e-learning in National Open University of Nigeria. It sought to find out Attitudes of students towards e-learning. The study investigated the various challenges of e-learning in NOUN. Also the studies investigated prospects of e-learning, availability of e-learning facilities and also determine the ICT competence of NOUN students. The design of the study is a descriptive survey type. The sample for the study consisted of 250 students randomly selected from all the faculties in National Open University of Nigeria, Akure Study Center. 50 students were drawn from each faculty using simple random sampling technique giving a total of 250 students (respondents). A questionnaire titled “Challenges and Prospects of E-learning in National Open University of Nigeria” designed by the research was used to collect data. The instrument was validated by expert in Computer Science, Educational Technology and Test and Measurement. To ensure the reliability of the instrument, a Cronbach alpha statistics technique was employed and a reliability coefficient of 0.84 was obtained. This value is high enough for a study of this nature. The data collected were analyzed through the use of descriptive statistics such as frequency count, percentage and bar chart. The result of the findings showed that: NOUN students show positive attitude towards the use of e-learning. Majority of the respondents agreed that NOUN does not have enough e-learning equipment and facilities. There are challenges affecting the utilization of e-learning in NOUN for instructional purposes. The study also revealed that e-exam adopted by NOUN contributes to students’ ICT competence and prospects of e-learning if fully implemented.
Effects of Cooperative Learning on Students’ Academic Achievement
Authors: Gull Fariha , Shehzad Shumaila
Published: August 2015

Multiple teaching methods are used by teachers in order to improve learning of students. The most popular is lecture method, while very effective is cooperative learning method. Later teaching method had been preferred for teaching science and languages as cited by previous research studies. However, in the subjects of social sciences and humanities, its importance cannot be ignored. Following study is an effort to determine effect of cooperative learning method on students’ achievement in subject of Education.  Qusi experimental design, with pre and post test of control and experimental group was used to achieve target of the study. Sample of the study consisted of 63 female students enrolled in grade 12 of a public college. An achievement test was used as a pre-test, the students were than divided in experimental and control groups. Multiple cooperative learning activities were performed with experimental group by using three common methods of cooperative learning i.e., STAD, TGT and Jigsaw II. The control group was taught by lecture method only. After 8 weeks a post test was administered on both experimental and control group in order to identify difference in achievement. The independent sample t-test was used to measure the mean scores difference between achievement scores of control and treatment groups on pretest.  The results showed that there was no significant difference between the two groups (p=.825) leading to assumption that both groups were on equal level of achievement before intervention.  Same test was applied to find out difference between two groups before and after intervention.  The results showed that there was a significant difference in scores of control and experimental group in post-test. In addition to this paired sample t-test was conducted to compare the effect of intervention on achievement scores of experimental group.  The results showed that there was significant difference between scores of experimental group before and after intervention (p=.000). It can be concluded from results that cooperative learning activities had a positive effect on academic achievement of students enrolled in the subject of Education. This study is a contribution in knowledge body of teaching methods for social sciences. This had clarified that cooperative learning activities are equally helpful for the subject that was considered truly a lecture subject. The teachers can use this teaching method in their classes.
Cross-National Key Performance Measures of the Quality of Acute Stroke Care in Western Europe
Authors: Norrving Bo , Bray Benjamin D. , Asplund Kjell , Heuschmann Peter , Langhorne Peter , Rudd Anthony G. , Wagner Markus , Wiedmann Silke , Wolfe Charles D.A.
Published: August 2015

Background and Purpose—

There are no agreed measures of stroke care quality that enable the standardized comparison of stroke care between countries. We aimed to develop a set of measures of quality of acute stroke care involving stroke quality registers in Western Europe.

Methods—

A multinational working group identified 6 regional or national stroke quality registers in Europe and reviewed their data sets, performance measures, and the method by which these had been developed. Measures used in the registers were presented for discussion to a consensus group of representatives from the quality registers identified, as well as other stroke experts, and the final set of common performance measures was agreed through majority consensus.

Results—

Thirty final performance measures were agreed by the European consensus group, encompassing the domains of coordination of care (stroke unit–based care), diagnosis (brain imaging, vascular imaging, cardiac arrhythmia detection, and therapy assessment), preservation of neural tissue (thrombolytic therapy and door-to-needle time), prevention of complications (dysphagia screening), initiation of secondary prevention (antiplatelet, anticoagulation, lipid lowering, blood pressure lowering, carotid surgery, time from vascular imaging to carotid surgery, and smoking cessation), survival (90-day poststroke mortality), and functional outcomes (90-day modified Rankin Scale).

Conclusions—

On the basis of experience of quality registers in Europe, we have proposed a common set of performance measures that will facilitate the international comparison of acute stroke care quality.
Intracerebral Hematoma Contributes to Hydrocephalus After Intraventricular Hemorrhage via Aggravating Iron Accumulation
Authors: Chen Qianwei , Tang Jun , Tan Liang , Guo Jing , Tao Yihao , Li Lin , Chen Yujie , Liu Xin , Zhang John H. , Chen Zhi , Feng Hua
Published: August 2015

Background and Purpose—

The intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) secondary to intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) was reported to be relevant to a higher incidence of hydrocephalus, which would result in poorer outcomes for patients with ICH. However, the mechanisms responsible for this relationship remain poorly characterized. Thus, this study was designed to further explore the development and progression of hydrocephalus after secondary IVH.

Methods—

Autologous blood injection model was induced to mimic ICH with ventricular extension (ICH/IVH) or primary IVH in Sprague-Dawley rats. Magnetic resonance imaging, Morris water maze, brain water content, Evans blue extravasation, immunohistochemistry staining, Western blot, iron determination, and electron microscopy were used in these rats. Then, deferoxamine treatment was used to clarify the involvement of iron in the development of hydrocephalus.

Results—

Despite the injection of equivalent blood volumes, ICH/IVH resulted in more significant ventricular dilation, ependymal cilia damage, and iron overload, as well as more severe early brain injury and neurological deficits compared with IVH alone. Systemic deferoxamine treatment more effectively reduced ventricular enlargement in ICH/IVH compared with primary IVH.

Conclusions—

Our results show that ICH/IVH caused more significant chronic hydrocephalus and iron accumulation than primary IVH alone. Intracerebral hematoma plays a vital role in persistent iron overload and aggravated hydrocephalus after ICH/IVH.
Coastal State Jurisdiction around Installations: Safety Zones in the Law of the Sea
Authors: tho Pesch Sebastian
Published: August 2015

As human activities in the oceans increase, so does the number of maritime installations. To avoid collisions, installations are surrounded by safety zones, where the coastal State enjoys some jurisdiction. Safety zones have to be respected by all ships. However, technical advancements and economic feasibility have made it possible for installations and their surrounding safety zones to occupy large areas of sea; see, e.g., offshore wind farms, which were previously open to the international community. This article argues for a restrictive understanding of the coastal State’s jurisdiction, based on the purpose of the safety zone regime.
“Creeping Jurisdiction” by the Small Islands of the Pacific Ocean in the Context of Management of the Tuna Fisheries
Authors: Morin Michel
Published: August 2015

The tuna fishery of the Western and Central Pacific Ocean occurs for the greater part in waters under the sovereignty or jurisdiction of coastal States which qualify as small island developing States (sids); this fishery is managed by the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (wcpfc). On account of the majority they represent, the sids strive for the adoption of measures which would benefit them. This article discusses the effect of these measures which may give the impression that the delicate balance reached with the adoption of the losc between the rights of coastal States and other States is being upset; this can be regarded as a kind of ‘creeping jurisdiction’. Three issues are considered: the quasi-exemption of application of many rules by the sids, the issue of the application of the Convention in the various areas under national jurisdiction and the requirements for the exercise of navigational rights.
A brief history of the bryological exploration of the Azores
Authors: Frahm Jan-Peter
Published: August 2015

An account of the bryological activities on the Azores is given. Three phases can be distinguished: one at the end of the 19. century, when first collections of non-bryologists were made, which resulted in the discovery of less than one third of the presently known species and the description of many so called endemics. A second phase in the thirties of the 20. century is characterized by an intensive collecting activity of some bryologists, which enormously raised the species numbers. In a third phase at the end of the 20. century, tourism as well as activities of local bryologists raised again the species numbers. Revisions of genera reduced the number of endemic species and revisions of herbarium specimens of doubtful records even reduced the species numbers of hepatics.
An evaluation of the bryophyte flora of the Azores
Authors: Frahm Jan-Peter
Published: August 2015

The diversity of bryophytes on the different islands of the Azores varies much between 104 and 324 species. Attempts have been made to explain the heterogenity of the bryoflora. There is a correlation between species numbers and age of the islands in the way that the youngest islands (Pico) has the lowest species numbers in spite of the fact that it is the highest island. The species numbers of the other islands are correlated with the maximum elevation and with the size of the islands. The liverwort-moss ratio varies between 1.21 and 1.67 and shows a distinct humidity gradient between the islands. The floristic affinities between the islands are calculated by a cluster analysis. They show no correlation with the location of the islands (nearest neighbour), size, age, elevation or species numbers, which indicates that the species composition is mainly determined by chance. Ten species (2,3%) are endemic to the Azores and 14 species (including one genus) are endemic to the Macaronesian Islands. Some of the endemics are questionable, others may occur elsewhere in the tropics under a different name, but there is fossil prove that the others are relicts from the Tertiary which survived extinction during Quaternary in Europe.
Studies on some Asian mosses of the Pottiales, mainly from the Himalayas

Authors: Sollman Philip
Published: August 2015

Eighteen taxa are proposed as new synonyms in this study. Barbula calycina Schwägr. and Tortula ruraliformis (Besch.) Ingham are reported new for China. The types of Barbula pugionata Müll. Hal. and Streblotrichum gracillimum Herzog could not be located; comments on these two taxa are given. Barbula pugionata is considered as a questionable synonym of Syntrichia gemmascens (P.C. Chen) R.H. Zander. Streblotrichum gracillimum is Bellibarbula recurva (Griff.) R.H. Zander. Fruiting specimens of Didymodon giganteus (Funck) Jur., Didymodon leskeoides K. Saito and Didymodon subandreaeoides (Kindb.) R.H. Zander are reported from the Himalayas. Didymodon subandreaeoides and Bryoerythrophyllum rubrum (Geh.) P.C. Chen are reported new for Mongolia. Didymodon hastatus (Mitt.) R.H. Zander replaces Didymodon maschalogena (Renauld & Cardot) Broth. Barbula subcontorta Broth. is here viewed as Didymodon tectorum (Müll. Hal.) K. Saito: the latter is a distinct species.
New species of cynipid inquilines of the genus Synergus (Hymenoptera: Cynipidae: Synergini) from the Eastern Palaearctic
Authors: SCHWÉGER SZABINA , MELIKA GEORGE , TANG CHANG-TI , BIHARI PÉTER , BOZSÓ MIKLÓS , Stone Graham N. , Nicholls James A. , PÉNZES ZSOLT
Published: August 2015

Eight new species of cynipid inquilines, Synergus abei Melika & Schwéger, S. belizinellus Schwéger & Melika, S. changtitangi Melika & Schwéger, S. formosanus Schwéger & Melika, S. ishikarii Melika & Schwéger, S. kawakamii Tang & Melika, S. khazani Melika & Schwéger and S. symbioticus Schwéger & Melika, from the Eastern Palaearctic are described. Descriptions, diagnoses, biology, and host associations for the new species and a key to all known Eastern Palaearctic Synergus species are given. All taxa are supported by morphological and molecular data. We discuss the status of all previously described Eastern Palaearctic Synergus species, and provide validation and synonymization of some species.
Two new myrmecophilous species of the genus Petalomium (Acari: Pygmephoroidea: Neopygmephoridae)
Authors: KHAUSTOV ALEXANDER A.
Published: August 2015

Two new myrmecophilous species of the genus Petalomium Cross, 1965 (Acari: Pygmephoroidea: Neopygmephoridae), P. crossi sp. nov. and P. reductus sp. nov. are described from ants Myrmicaria distincta Santschi, 1925 (Hymenoptera: Formicidae: Myrmicinae) in Ethiopia. The presence and shape of the postpalpal setae in species of the genus Petalomium are discussed.