bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Landscape Ecology and Epidemiology of Malaria Associated with Rubber Plantations in Thailand: Integrated Approaches to Malaria Ecotoping
Authors: Kaewwaen Wuthichai , Bhumiratana Adisak
Published: March 2015

The agricultural land use changes that are human-induced changes in agroforestry ecosystems and in physical environmental conditions contribute substantially to the potential risks for malaria transmission in receptive areas. Due to the pattern and extent of land use change, the risks or negatively ecosystemic outcomes are the results of the dynamics of malaria transmission, the susceptibility of human populations, and the geographical distribution of malaria vectors. This review focused basically on what are the potential effects of agricultural land use change as a result of the expansion of rubber plantations in Thailand and how significant the ecotopes of malaria-associated rubber plantations (MRP) are. More profoundly, this review synthesized the novel concepts and perspectives on applied landscape ecology and epidemiology of malaria, as well as approaches to determine the degree to which an MRP ecotope as fundamental landscape scale can establish malaria infection pocket(s). Malaria ecotoping encompasses the integrated approaches and tools applied to or used in modeling malaria transmission. The scalability of MRP ecotope depends upon its unique landscape structure as it is geographically associated with the infestation or reinfestation ofAnophelesvectors, along with the attributes that are epidemiologically linked with the infections. The MRP ecotope can be depicted as the hotspot such that malaria transmission is modeled upon the MRP factors underlying human settlements and movement activities, health behaviors, land use/land cover change, malaria vector population dynamics, and agrienvironmental and climatic conditions. The systemic and uniform approaches to malaria ecotoping underpin the stratification of the potential risks for malaria transmission by making use of remotely sensed satellite imagery or landscape aerial photography using unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), global positioning systems (GPS), and geographical information systems (GIS).
Filter Cake Oil-Wax as Raw Material for the Production of Biodiesel: Analysis of the Extraction Process and the Transesterification Reaction
Authors: Casas L. , Hernández Y. , Mantell C. , Casdelo N. , Martinez de la Ossa E.
Published: March 2015

The viability of using the waste obtained in the manufacture of sugar from sugarcane for the production of biodiesel has been analyzed. Two fundamental stages are necessary to obtain biodiesel; the first stage is the extraction process from the waste oil materials and the second is the transesterification reaction. Four techniques, Soxhlet, orbital shaker extraction, ultrasonic-assisted extraction, and supercritical fluid extraction, have been analyzed. For Soxhlet, orbital shaker extraction, and ultrasonic-assisted extraction, the organic solvent (hexane) was maintained for all experiment. In supercritical fluid extraction two solvents were evaluated: pure CO2and mixtures of CO2and 5% (v : v) methanol. The reaction kinetics of the transesterification reaction with an acidic catalyst and a basic catalyst were analysed. The results show that the supercritical extraction process produces a better product for the subsequent transesterification reaction. This finding is attributed to the high selectivity of carbon dioxide in the recovery of fatty acids and triglycerides in comparison with other solvents.
Identification of Candidate Gene Variants in Korean MODY Families by Whole-Exome Sequencing
Authors: Shim Ye Jee , Kim Jung Eun , Hwang Su-Kyeong , Choi Bong Seok , Choi Byung Ho , Cho Eun-Mi , Jang Kyoung Mi , Ko Cheol Woo
Published: March 2015

Aims: To date, 13 genes causing maturity-onset diabetes of the young (MODY) have been identified. However, there is a big discrepancy in the genetic locus between Asian and Caucasian patients with MODY. Thus, we conducted whole-exome sequencing in Korean MODY families to identify causative gene variants. Methods: Six MODY probands and their family members were included. Variants in the dbSNP135 and TIARA databases for Koreans and the variants with minor allele frequencies >0.5% of the 1000 Genomes database were excluded. We selected only the functional variants (gain of stop codon, frameshifts and nonsynonymous single-nucleotide variants) and conducted a case-control comparison in the family members. The selected variants were scanned for the previously introduced gene set implicated in glucose metabolism. Results: Three variants c.620C>T:p.Thr207Ile in PTPRD, c.559C>G:p.Gln187Glu in SYT9, and c.1526T>G:p.Val509Gly in WFS1 were respectively identified in 3 families. We could not find any disease-causative alleles of known MODY 1-13 genes. Based on the predictive program, Thr207Ile in PTPRD was considered pathogenic. Conclusions: Whole-exome sequencing is a valuable method for the genetic diagnosis of MODY. Further evaluation is necessary about the role of PTPRD, SYT9 and WFS1 in normal insulin release from pancreatic beta cells.
Neuroanatomical and Morphological Trait Clusters in the Ant Genus Pheidole: Evidence for Modularity and Integration in Brain Structure
Authors: Ilieş Iulian , Muscedere Mario L. , Traniello James F.A.
Published: March 2015

A central question in brain evolution concerns how selection has structured neuromorphological variation to generate adaptive behavior. In social insects, brain structures differ between reproductive and sterile castes, and worker behavioral specializations related to morphology, age, and ecology are associated with intra- and interspecific variation in investment in functionally different brain compartments. Workers in the hyperdiverse ant genus Pheidole are morphologically and behaviorally differentiated into minor and major subcastes that exhibit distinct species-typical patterns of brain compartment size variation. We examined integration and modularity in brain organization and its developmental patterning in three ecotypical Pheidole species by analyzing intra- and interspecific morphological and neuroanatomical covariation. Our results identified two trait clusters, the first involving olfaction and social information processing and the second composed of brain regions regulating nonolfactory sensorimotor functions. Patterns of size covariation between brain compartments within subcastes were consistent with levels of behavioral differentiation between minor and major workers. Globally, brains of mature workers were more heterogeneous than brains of newly eclosed workers, suggesting diversified developmental trajectories underscore species- and subcaste-typical brain organization. Variation in brain structure associated with the striking worker polyphenism in our sample of Pheidole appears to originate from initially differentiated brain templates that further diverge through species- and subcaste-specific processes of maturation and behavioral development.
Reference Ranges for and Determinants of Right Ventricular Area in Healthy Adults by Two-Dimensional Echocardiography
Authors: Grünig Ekkehard , Biskupek Johanna , D''Andrea Antonello , Ehlken Nicola , Egenlauf Benjamin , Weidenhammer Johannes , Marra Alberto M. , Cittadini Antonio , Fischer Christine , Bossone Eduardo
Published: March 2015

Background: The right ventricular (RV) area is important for diagnosis and follow-up in patients with various diseases, such as in pulmonary hypertension. Objectives: The aim of this study was to define the reference ranges of the end-diastolic RV area in healthy adults and to assess the determining factors. Methods: In the first part of the study 860 healthy subjects (37.6% female; mean age 28 ± 5.84; 395 endurance athletes, 255 strength athletes and 210 non-athletes) were prospectively assessed. In the second part we performed a pooled analysis of studies published between 1979 and 2014 describing the RV area in healthy subjects (n = 5,248). Statistical analysis included the calculation of reference ranges and the analysis of determining factors. Results: Mean end-diastolic RV areas in 860 healthy subjects were significantly larger in endurance athletes (25.1 ± 2.0 cm2) compared with strength athletes (22.9 ± 1.7 cm2) and non-athletes (16.7 ± 2.0 cm2, p < 0.001). In the synopsis of both data sets, mean end-diastolic RV area was significantly larger in European/American males (17 cm2) compared with females (14 cm2, p < 0.001) and in Asian males (16 cm2) compared with females (13 cm2, p < 0.001). The area increased with body surface area and older age. Conclusion: This is the largest data set to define RV size in healthy adults aged <50 years. RV area was determined by age, gender, body surface area, ethnicity and high-level exercise training. High standard deviations resulted in high values for the upper limit of the reference range, which might therefore not be useful as cut-off values for screening purposes. Gender- and ethnicity-specific reference ranges should be used. Further studies in subjects aged >50 years as well as in children are needed.
Spectral Tuning in the Eyes of Deep-Sea Lanternfishes (Myctophidae): A Novel Sexually Dimorphic Intra-Ocular Filter
Authors: de Busserolles Fanny , Hart Nathan S. , Hunt David M. , Davies Wayne I. , Marshall N. Justin , Clarke Michael W. , Hahne Dorothee , Collin Shaun P.
Published: March 2015

Deep-sea fishes possess several adaptations to facilitate vision where light detection is pushed to its limit. Lanternfishes (Myctophidae), one of the world's most abundant groups of mesopelagic fishes, possess a novel and unique visual specialisation, a sexually dimorphic photostable yellow pigmentation, constituting the first record of a visual sexual dimorphism in any non-primate vertebrate. The topographic distribution of the yellow pigmentation across the retina is species specific, varying in location, shape and size. Spectrophotometric analyses reveal that this new retinal specialisation differs between species in terms of composition and acts as a filter, absorbing maximally between 356 and 443 nm. Microspectrophotometry and molecular analyses indicate that the species containing this pigmentation also possess at least 2 spectrally distinct rod visual pigments as a result of a duplication of the Rh1 opsin gene. After modelling the effect of the yellow pigmentation on photoreceptor spectral sensitivity, we suggest that this unique specialisation acts as a filter to enhance contrast, thereby improving the detection of bioluminescent emissions and possibly fluorescence in the extreme environment of the deep sea. The fact that this yellow pigmentation is species specific, sexually dimorphic and isolated within specific parts of the retina indicates an evolutionary pressure to visualise prey/predators/mates in a particular part of each species' visual field.
Canadian Administrative Health Data Can Identify Patients with Myasthenia Gravis
Authors: Breiner Ari , Young Jacqueline , Green Diane , Katzberg Hans D. , Barnett Carolina , Bril Vera , Tu Karen
Published: March 2015

Introduction: Incidence and prevalence estimates for myasthenia gravis (MG) have varied widely, and the ability of administrative health data (AHD) records to accurately identify cases of MG is yet to be ascertained. The goal of the current study was to validate an algorithm to identify patients with MG in Ontario, Canada using AHD - thereby enabling future disease surveillance. Methods: A reference standard population was established using automated key word searching within EMRALD (Electronic Medical Record Administrative data Linked Database) and chart review of potential cases. AHD algorithms were generated and tested against the reference standard. The data was used to calculate MG prevalence rates. Results: There were 123,997 eligible adult patients, and 49 patients had definite MG (forming the reference standard). An algorithm requiring: (1 hospital discharge abstract with MG listed as a reason for hospitalization or a comorbid condition), or (5 outpatient MG visits and 1 relevant diagnostic test, within 1 year), or (3 pyridostigmine prescriptions, within 1 year) identified MG with sensitivity = 81.6%, specificity = 100%, positive predictive value = 80.0% and negative predictive value = 100%. The population prevalence within our cohort was 0.04%. Conclusions: This novel validation method demonstrates the feasibility of using administrative health data to identify patients with myasthenia gravis among the Ontario population.
The Interleukin-13 Receptor-α1 Chain Is Essential for Induction of the Alternative Macrophage Activation Pathway by IL-13 but Not IL-4
Authors: Sheikh Faruk , Dickensheets Harold , Pedras-Vasconcelos Joao , Ramalingam Thirumalai , Helming Laura , Gordon Siamon , Donnelly Raymond P.
Published: March 2015

Macrophages coexpress both the interleukin (IL)-2Rγ chain (γc) and IL-13Rα1. These receptor chains can heterodimerize with IL-4Rα to form type I or type II IL-4 receptor complexes, respectively. We used macrophages derived from Il2rg and Il13ra1 knockout (KO) mice to evaluate the requirements for these receptor chains for induction of the alternative macrophage activation (AMA) pathway by IL-4 and IL-13. Absence of γc significantly decreased activation of STAT6 by IL-4 but not IL-13. However, although activation of STAT6 by IL-4 was markedly reduced in γc KO macrophages, it was not abolished, indicating that IL-4 can still signal through type II IL-4 receptors via the IL-13Rα1 chain. IL-13 failed to activate STAT6 in macrophages derived from Il13ra1 KO mice; however, these cells remained fully responsive to IL-4. The inability of IL-13 but not IL-4 to signal in Il13ra1-/- macrophages correlated with the inability of IL-13 but not IL-4 to induce expression of genes such as Arg1, Retnla and Ccl11 that are characteristically expressed by alternatively activated macrophages. In addition, IL-13 but not IL-4 failed to induce membrane fusion and giant cell formation by Il13ra1 KO macrophages. These findings demonstrate that the IL-13Rα1 chain is essential for induction of the AMA pathway by IL-13 but not IL-4.
Cataract Surgery and Intraocular Pressure
Authors: Melancia Diana , Abegão Pinto Luis , Marques-Neves Carlos
Published: March 2015

Cataract surgery is one of the most performed surgeries in the developed world. In addition to its significant impact on visual acuity, phacoemulsification has been hailed as a potential intraocular pressure (IOP)-lowering procedure. While current evidence suggests an overall significant and sustained decrease in IOP to exist after cataract surgery, the specific ocular characteristics that could help predict which patients are likely to benefit from this IOP-lowering effect remain unclear. This definition is important in glaucoma patients if this surgery is to be used in the treatment for this disease. Our review aims to summarize the literature on the subject, depicting possible mechanisms behind this IOP decrease, which type of patients are more likely to benefit from this surgery for IOP-lowering purposes and ultimately help optimizing disease management for the increasing number of patients with concomitant glaucoma and cataract.
Basilar Artery Territory Stroke Secondary to Invasive Fungal Sphenoid Sinusitis: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Fu Katherine A. , Nguyen Peggy L. , Sanossian Nerses
Published: March 2015

Background: Mucormycosis is a fungal infection with the following 5 classic forms: cutaneous, pulmonary, gastrointestinal, disseminated, and rhinocerebral. The rhinocerebral form can be rapidly progressive and invasive with a high mortality rate. We present a case of a 38-year-old man with invasive mucormycosis that led to a basilar artery territory stroke. Rhinocerebral mucormycosis is an unusual cause of stroke. Case Report: A 38-year-old man with a past medical history of diabetes mellitus presented with altered mental status. A lumbar puncture revealed eosinophilic pleocytosis with a mildly elevated total protein and borderline low glucose level. CT revealed a left medullary and cerebellar infarct confirmed by MRI. MRI also displayed a diffuse marrow signal abnormality in the clivus with contiguous sinus disease. Endoscopic sinus surgery confirmed that the fungal sinusitis was mucormycosis of the Rhizopus genus, which had affected the left sphenoid sinus, invaded through the skull base, and involved the basilar artery. He was given liposomal amphotericin (500 mg i.v.) with posaconazole (400 mg i.v. twice daily). Due to the severity of the invasion and poor prognosis, the patient was discharged with comfort care measures. Discussion: Clinicians should be aware of invasive sinusitis as a rare cause of stroke in diabetics. Once the subarachnoid space and basal arteries of the brain have been invaded, the prognosis is very poor. The key to improvement of outcomes is early recognition and treatment, and examination of the sinuses on neuroimaging in all cases of stroke is vital.
Large Cell Neuroendocrine Carcinoma of the Lung withCancer-Associated Retinopathy
Authors: Nakamura Takahiko , Fujisaka Yasuhito , Tamura Yosuke , Tsuji Hiroyuki , Matsunaga Ninso , Yoshida Shuhei , Imanishi Masafumi , Fujita Kazuhiko , Ikeda Soichiro , Oku Hidehiro , Goto Isao , Ikeda Tsunehiko , Hanafusa Toshiaki
Published: March 2015

We report a rare case of large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (LCNEC) of the lung with cancer-associated retinopathy (CAR). To our knowledge, only two cases of LCNEC with CAR have been reported, one in 1995 and another in 2013. CAR, typically associated with small cell lung cancer (SCLC), is one of the paraneoplastic syndromes with deterioration of visual acuity, visual field constriction, and photophobia. CAR is caused by an autoimmune system reaction against the same antigen in the tumor and retinal photoreceptor cells. To diagnose CAR, genetic retinal dystrophies or any other medical causes of retinopathy should be excluded, but there are no standard diagnostic criteria. Anti-retinal antibodies are known to be positive in CAR patients, and anti-recoverin antibodies are thought to be sensitive and specific to CAR. In our case, anti-recoverin antibodies were not detected by serum tests, but CAR could be diagnosed on the basis of ophthalmological findings including clinical symptoms, electroretinographic findings, and visual field tests. CAR with clinical features of rapid visual disorder should be considered in LCNEC patients as well as in SCLC patients.
NAS FRONTEIRAS ENTRE RAZÃO E DESRAZÃO: UMA LEITURA DE “O GATO PRETO” DE EDGAR ALLAN POE.
Authors: Ferreira Carla Alexandra , Rodrigues Raquel Terezinha
Published: March 2015

Conhecido por seus contos macabros e misteriosos e por histórias policiais, Edgar Allan Poe (1809-1849) ocupa uma posição controversa e importante entre seus contemporâneos. O objetivo deste artigo é o de investigar por meio da leitura de um dos seus mais conhecidos contos, “O Gato Preto” (1843) como a temática da linha tênue entre razão e desrazão é apresentada no conto. Tendo como unidade de efeito a incerteza, esse conto dialoga com as idéias de Michel Foucault sobre razão e loucura e ainda com pensamentos vigentes sobre a formação da literatura norte-americana.
A PROJEÇÃO DA LOUCURA NA FIGURA FEMININA EM ANTICRISTO, DE LARS VON TRIER
Authors: Kruger Patricia
Published: March 2015

Nossa intenção é apresentar aqui um estudo dissonante sobre a representação da loucura no filme Anticristo (Antichrist, 2009), do cineasta dinamarquês Lars von Trier. Partindo da análise do foco narrativo exposto pelo filme, que seria associado à personagem masculina, objetivamos observar como a feminilidade e seu suposto “desvio da norma” são filtrados pelos interesses do discurso corporificado na figura masculina. De forma mais abrangente, interessa-nos ilustrar, numa leitura a contrapelo, como os processos alucinatórios, paranoicos e o estado de transe que o filme apresenta referem-se justamente a esta figura, e quais as consequências desta determinada configuração formal.
O AMOR NÃO É CEGO, É LOUCO: EFEITO PASSIONAL DA LOUCURA EM DOIS CONTOS DE CAIO FERNANDO ABREU
Authors: Lima Ricardo Augusto de
Published: March 2015

Este artigo tem como objetivo principal evidenciar as relações que a loucura e o amor mantém entre si em dois contos de Caio Fernando Abreu. Pretendo discutir o conceito de loucura e os procedimentos a partir dos quais se torna possível explicar o surgimento do efeito passional como resultado do jogo entre as modalidades do querer ser, do dever ser e do poder ser. Desta forma, espero evidenciar que a loucura é uma das faces que o amor incorpora na literatura contemporânea.
ELENA GARRO, A DESHORA: FIGURAS LITERARIAS DE LA ABYECCIÓN
Authors: Marsal Meritxell Hernando
Published: March 2015

La masacre de Tlatelolco de 1968 devino el episodio más sangrante del gobierno de Díaz Ordaz en México y desató un proceso de persecución y represión del movimiento estudiantil. Entre sus consecuencias destaca la sospecha que recayó sobre Elena Garro de haber delatado a los autores intelectuales del movimiento. Desde ese momento, Garro encarnó un personaje abyecto de colaboración, en permanente hostigamiento, que la forzaría a un prolongado exilio de veinte años.Este trabajo pretende reflexionar sobre las implicaciones de la acusación y el diagnóstico de locura que la acompaña. Si para algunos críticos esa locura se redime en la obra literaria de Garro, que en esta operación alcanzaría notoriedad, también puede pensarse desde un horizonte irreductible. La mirada delirante de Garro no sublima el trauma, repite una y otra vez las ramificaciones de la violencia política, con personajes permanentemente acosados, expuestos, fuera de lugar, en situaciones en que el totalitarismo adopta formas cercanas y rutinarias. Las figuras de la traición se multiplican en su obra, implicando saberes y personajes ajenos al lenguaje de la izquierda oficial (animales, niños, mujeres, indígenas), que son señalados en su indefensión, cuestionando profundamente las premisas de la política partidaria.
Loucos, bufões, cegos e manetas: os contadores de histórias de Tahar Ben Jelloun
Authors: Nogueira Luciana Persice
Published: March 2015

O contador de histórias de Tahar Ben Jelloun apresenta-se como personagem vacilante entre passado e presente, oral e escrito, loucura e sabedoria. Em três romances do escritor marroquino, o personagem-narrador do contador se multiplica e desdobra, expressando a polifona do texto, o desequilíbrio do personagem, o desvario de sua situação: exterritorial (BONN), desterritorializada (DELEUZE e GUATTARI), colocando em questão a verdade do texto (como não raro nos textos contemporâneos) e a unidade do mundo (que deveria ser garantida pelo trabalho milenar da tradição do contador). A loucura do contador decorre da dor do desterro, mas também do poder do livro e da história: de possuidor do texto, passa a ser possuído por ele. O contador enlouquecido torna-se, então, exorcista, para expulsar de si e das páginas do livro as histórias dos personagens. Loucura que é condição da “reterritorialização simbólica”.
프로이트의 “회상, 반복 및 훈습” 논문에서 불연속적으로 구분되는 것과 연속적인 것에 관하여 (The Discrete and the Continuous in Freud’s “Remembering, Repeating and Working Through”)
Authors: 프리드먼 로렌스 , Friedman Lawrence
Published: March 2015

프로이트의 “회상, 반복 및 훈습” 논문에는 분석가로 하여금 마음을 하나의 활동의 연속체로 생각하게 하는 한편, 동시에 마음에서의 존재물 (실재물) 들에 관해 생각하도록 촉구하게 하는 주요한 구절 두 개가 있다. 분석가가 환자의 연속적인 행동으로부터 불연속적으로 구분되는 기억들을 찾게 하는 그 구절은 도발적인 역설 (패러독스) 이지만, 정신분석적인 관습 속으로 쉽게 편입되었다. 그러나 반대 방향에서 보면, 분석가가 행한 불연속적으로 구분되는 해석들로부터 환자가 자신의 긴장된 경험의 연속까지를 통틀어서 환자 자신의 길을 찾아가는 묘사는 대부분이 주로 진부하기 짝이 없게 되어있다. 이러한 회피가 일어나는 실제적인 이유의 하나를 제시하려고 한다.
Structural and optical properties of position-retrievable low-density GaAs droplet epitaxial quantum dots for application to single photon sources with plasmonic optical coupling
Authors: Lee Eun-Hye , Song Jin-Dong , Han Il-Ki , Chang Soo-Kyung , Langer Fabian , Höfling Sven , Forchel Alfred , Kamp Martin , Kim Jong-Su
Published: March 2015

The position of a single GaAs quantum dot (QD), which is optically active, grown by low-density droplet epitaxy (DE) (approximately 4 QDs/μm2), was directly observed on the surface of a 45-nm-thick Al0.3Ga0.7As capping layer. The thin thickness of AlGaAs capping layer is useful for single photon sources with plasmonic optical coupling. A micro-photoluminescence for GaAs DE QDs has shown exciton/biexciton behavior in the range of 1.654 to 1.657 eV. The direct observation of positions of low-density GaAs DE QDs would be advantageous for mass fabrication of devices that use a single QD, such as single photon sources.
Colistin and tobramycin resistance during long- term use of selective decontamination strategies in the intensive care unit: a post hoc analysis
Authors: Wittekamp Bastiaan HJ , Oostdijk Evelien AN , de Smet Anne Marie GA , Bonten Marc JM
Published: March 2015

Introduction

Selective decontamination of the digestive tract (SDD) and selective oropharyngeal decontamination (SOD) have been shown to improve intensive care unit (ICU) patients’ outcomes. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of long-term use of SDD and SOD on colistin and tobramycin resistance among gram-negative bacteria.

Methods

We performed a post hoc analysis of two consecutive multicentre cluster-randomised trials with crossover of interventions. SDD and SOD were alternately but continuously used during 7 years in five Dutch ICUs participating in two consecutive cluster-randomised trials. In both trials, to measure colistin and tobramycin resistance among gram-negative bacteria, rectal and respiratory samples were obtained monthly from all patients present in the ICU.

Results

The prevalence of tobramycin resistance in respiratory and rectal samples decreased significantly during long-term use of SOD and SDD. (rectal samples risk ratio (RR) 0.35 (0.23 to 0.53); respiratory samples RR 0.48 (0.32 to 0.73), SDD compared to standard care). Colistin resistance in rectal and respiratory samples did not change (rectal samples RR 0.63 (0.29 to 1.38); respiratory samples RR 1.26 (0.35 to 4.57), SDD compared to standard care).

Conclusions

In this study, in a setting with low antimicrobial resistance rates, the prevalence of resistance against colistin and tobramycin among gram-negative isolates did not increase during a mean of 7 years of SDD or SOD use.
Short-term amino acid infusion improves protein balance in critically ill patients
Authors: Liebau Felix , Sundström Martin , van Loon Luc JC , Wernerman Jan , Rooyackers Olav
Published: March 2015

Introduction

Evidence behind the recommendations for protein feeding during critical illness is weak. Mechanistic studies are needed to elucidate the effects of amino acid and/or protein supplementation on protein metabolism before larger clinical trials with higher levels of protein feeding are initiated.

Methods

We studied the effects of parenteral amino acid supplementation (equivalent to 1 g/kg/day) over the course of 3 hours on whole-body protein turnover in critically ill patients in the intensive care unit (ICU) during the first week after admission. Patients were studied at baseline during ongoing nutrition and during extra amino acid supplementation. If the patient was still in the ICU 2 to 4 days later, these measurements were repeated. Protein kinetics were measured using continuous stable isotope-labeled phenylalanine and tyrosine infusions.

Results

Thirteen patients were studied on the first study occasion only, and seven were studied twice. Parenteral amino acid supplementation significantly improved protein balance on both occasions, from a median of −4 to +7 μmol phenylalanine/kg/hr (P =0.001) on the first study day and from a median of 0 to +12 μmol phenylalanine/kg/hr (P =0.018) on the second study day. The more positive protein balance was attributed to an increased protein synthesis rate, which reached statistical significance during the first measurement (from 58 to 65 μmol phenylalanine/kg/hr; n =13; P =0.007), but not during the second measurement (from 58 to 69 μmol phenylalanine/kg/hr; n =7; P =0.09). Amino acid oxidation rates, estimated by phenylalanine hydroxylation, did not increase during the 3-hour amino acid infusion. A positive correlation (r =0.80; P <0.0001) was observed between total amino acids and/or protein given to the patient and whole-body protein balance.

Conclusion

Extra parenteral amino acids infused over a 3-hour period improved whole-body protein balance and did not increase amino acid oxidation rates in critically ill patients during the early phase (first week) of critical illness.
Aspirin therapy in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is associated with reduced intensive care unit mortality: a prospective analysis
Authors: Boyle Andrew J , Di Gangi Stefania , Hamid Umar I , Mottram Linda-Jayne , McNamee Lia , White Griania , Cross LJ Mark , McNamee James J , O’Kane Cecilia M , McAuley Daniel F
Published: March 2015

Introduction

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a common clinical syndrome with high mortality and long-term morbidity. To date there is no effective pharmacological therapy. Aspirin therapy has recently been shown to reduce the risk of developing ARDS, but the effect of aspirin on established ARDS is unknown.

Methods

In a single large regional medical and surgical ICU between December 2010 and July 2012, all patients with ARDS were prospectively identified and demographic, clinical, and laboratory variables were recorded retrospectively. Aspirin usage, both pre-hospital and during intensive care unit (ICU) stay, was included. The primary outcome was ICU mortality. We used univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses to assess the impact of these variables on ICU mortality.

Results

In total, 202 patients with ARDS were included; 56 (28%) of these received aspirin either pre-hospital, in the ICU, or both. Using multivariate logistic regression analysis, aspirin therapy, given either before or during hospital stay, was associated with a reduction in ICU mortality (odds ratio (OR) 0.38 (0.15 to 0.96) P = 0.04). Additional factors that predicted ICU mortality for patients with ARDS were vasopressor use (OR 2.09 (1.05 to 4.18) P = 0.04) and APACHE II score (OR 1.07 (1.02 to 1.13) P = 0.01). There was no effect upon ICU length of stay or hospital mortality.

Conclusion

Aspirin therapy was associated with a reduced risk of ICU mortality. These data are the first to demonstrate a potential protective role for aspirin in patients with ARDS. Clinical trials to evaluate the role of aspirin as a pharmacological intervention for ARDS are needed.
Analysis of an FBMC/OQAM scheme for asynchronous access in wireless communications
Authors: Mattera Davide , Tanda Mario , Bellanger Maurice
Published: March 2015

The OFDM/OQAM transceiver belongs to the filter-bank-based multicarrier (FBMC) family and, unlike OFDM schemes, it is particularly able to meet the requirements of the physical layer of cognitive radio networks such as high level of adjacent channel leakage ratio and asynchronous communications. The paper proposes and analyzes a new implementation structure, named frequency spreading, for the OFDM/OQAM transceiver. On flat channels, it is equivalent to the standard one in terms of input-output relations, though more complex. On multipath channels, it offers a crucial advantage in terms of equalization, which is performed in the frequency domain, leading to high performance and no additional delay. With its flexibility and level of performance, the analyzed scheme has the potential to outperform OFDM in the asynchronous access context and in cognitive radio networks.
Tachykinin-1 in the Central Nervous System Regulates Adiposity in Rodents
Authors: Trivedi Chitrang , Shan Xiaoye , Tung Yi-Chun Loraine , Kabra Dhiraj , Holland Jenna , Amburgy Sarah , Heppner Kristy , Kirchner Henriette , Yeo Giles S. H. , Perez-Tilve Diego
Published: March 2015

Ghrelin is a circulating hormone that targets the central nervous system to regulate feeding and adiposity. The best-characterized neural system that mediates the effects of ghrelin on energy balance involves the activation of neuropeptide Y/agouti-related peptide neurons, expressed exclusively in the arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus. However, ghrelin receptors are expressed in other neuronal populations involved in the control of energy balance. We combined laser capture microdissection of several nuclei of the central nervous system expressing the ghrelin receptor (GH secretagoge receptor) with microarray gene expression analysis to identify additional neuronal systems involved in the control of central nervous system-ghrelin action. We identified tachykinin-1 (Tac1) as a gene negatively regulated by ghrelin in the hypothalamus. Furthermore, we identified neuropeptide k as the TAC1-derived peptide with more prominent activity, inducing negative energy balance when delivered directly into the brain. Conversely, loss of Tac1 expression enhances the effectiveness of ghrelin promoting fat mass gain both in male and in female mice and increases the susceptibility to diet-induced obesity in ovariectomized mice. Taken together, our data demonstrate a role TAC1 in the control energy balance by regulating the levels of adiposity in response to ghrelin administration and to changes in the status of the gonadal function.
Antenatal alcohol exposure: An East Anglian study of midwives' knowledge and practice
Authors: Winstone Anne Marie , Verity Christopher
Published: March 2015

Objective:

To study midwives' knowledge, practice and opinions regarding advice about fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS), fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASDs) and alcohol intake in pregnancy.

Design:

A postal questionnaire was sent to 1862 midwives employed in 13 NHS Trusts in East Anglia, incorporating city and rural areas.

Results:

The authors received responses from 33.5% of the midwives contacted (n=624), of which 98% stated that alcohol abstinence in pregnancy would be their preferred advice, and 38% had seen an infant with FAS. Less than 2% indicated that they were ‘very prepared’ to deal with the subject. Only 10% identified all four classic features of FAS.

Conclusions:

More than a third of midwives had seen an infant with FAS. The advice given to pregnant mothers by participants varied. The midwives stated that they would like more information and support.

Implications for practice:

Expansion of midwives' knowledge should improve the quality of antenatal advice, leading to better prevention, intervention and recognition of FASD in children.
Midwives' perception about their practice in a midwifery-led care model in karachi, Pakistan
Authors: Saleem Zulekha , Jan Rafat , McInytre Helen , Rattani Salma Amin , Sikandar Rozina
Published: March 2015

Objective:

To explore the experiences and perceptions of midwives practising the midwifery-led care model at two private facilities of women and children hospital in Karachi, Pakistan.

Methods:

The descriptive qualitative data was collected through semi-structured questionnaires with 10 midwives.

Results:

The findings of the study revealed one theme and four related categories. The theme of the study emerged as ‘struggling to be a professional midwife’ and the related four categories were: (i) asking to perform within the full scope of practice, (ii) obstetricians’ reliance and trust in midwives' expertise, (iii) raising concerns about expensive midwifery services, and (iv) encountering barriers to practise midwifery as independent practitioners.

Conclusion:

Midwives face some challenges practising the midwifery-led care model such as lack of visibility in society, low salaries and increased workload due to the shortage of staff. Lack of higher education was also highlighted by the midwives as they have no opportunities for career growth. This study will increase midwives' autonomous role and decision-making in the clinical setting.
Rites of passage: Experiences of transition for forced Hazara migrants and refugees in Australia
Authors: Mackenzie Laurel , Guntarik Olivia
Published: March 2015

This article is about resettled Afghan Hazaras in Australia, many of whom are currently undergoing a complex process of transition (from transience into a more stable position) for the first time in their lives. Despite their permanent residency status, we show how resettlement can be a challenging transitional experience. For these new migrants, we argue that developing a sense of belonging during the transition period is a critical rite of passage in the context of their political and cultural identity. A study of forced migrants such as these, moving out of one transient experience into another transitional period (albeit one that holds greater promise and permanence) poses a unique intellectual challenge. New understandings about the ongoing, unpredictable consequences of ‘transience’ for refugee communities is crucial as we discover what might be necessary, as social support structures, to facilitate the process of transition into a distinctly new environment. The article is based on a doctoral ethnographic study of 30 resettled Afghan Hazara living in the region of Dandenong in Melbourne, Australia. Here, we include four of these participants’ reflections of transition during different phases of their resettlement. These reflections were particularly revealing of the ways in which some migrants deal with change and acquire a sense of belonging to the community. Taking a historical view, and drawing on Bourdieu’s notion of symbolic social capital to highlight themes in individual experiences of belonging, we show how some new migrants adjust and learn to ‘embody’ their place in the new country. Symbolic social capital illuminates how people access and use resources such as social networks as tools of empowerment, reflecting how Hazara post-arrival experiences are tied to complex power relations in their everyday social interactions and in their life trajectories as people in transition. We learned that such tools can facilitate the formation of Hazara migrant identities and are closely tied to their civic community participation, English language development, and orientation in, as well as comprehension of local cultural knowledge and place. This kind of theorization allows refugee, post-refugee and recent migrant narratives to be viewed not merely as static expressions of loss, trauma or damage, but rather as individual experiences of survival, adaptation and upward mobility.
‘How Silver-Sweet Sound Lovers’ Tongues’: The music of love and death in Franco Zeffirelli’s Romeo and Juliet
Authors: Lin Samantha
Published: March 2015

This article examines the ways in which the musical ‘love theme’ in Franco Zeffirelli’s Romeo and Juliet (1968) plays a crucial role in the careful negotiation of additions and subtractions in terms of content, visuals, and audio alike—negotiations made necessary by the shift of medium from drama to film. Introduced as a song entitled ‘What Is a Youth?’ in the film’s diegesis, the ‘love theme’ is a popular tune that has since been covered extensively in various versions and arrangements. However, despite the name attributed to the cue, the ‘love theme’ does not only represent the titular characters’ passion, but also the result of such love: their deaths. By considering the function of the ‘love theme’ in relation to both notions of love and death, this article argues that the soundtrack is crucial in supporting Zeffirelli’s interpretation, not only in terms of creating an emotional landscape for the film, but also on a wider level in consolidating and translating the ideas of Shakespearean tragedy.
Gebrauch als Design
Authors: Bredies Katharina
Published: March 2015

Mit der Verbreitung digitaler Technologien können Benutzer immer mehr mitbestimmen, wo und wofür digitale Gegenstände eingesetzt werden: Der Gebrauch wird selbst zur Gestaltung. Designer sollten darauf gerade nicht reagieren, indem sie technische Geräte »intuitiv« bedienbar machen - sondern im Gegenteil: Je wagemutiger das Design ist, desto kreativer kann es im Gebrauch umgenutzt werden. Am Beispiel elektronischer Textilien lotet Katharina Bredies das Umnutzungspotenzial ungewöhnlicher Objekte aus. Sie zeigt: Das professionelle Entwerfen und der kreative Gebrauch werden zu zwei Schauplätzen der gleichen Aktivität. Dieses Verständnis von Gebrauch als Design erfordert neue Begriffe und Methoden für professionelle Gestalter.
Volkseigene Körper
Authors: Giersdorf Jens Richard
Published: March 2015

»Volkseigene Körper« ist die erste deutschsprachige Monografie zur Untersuchung der doktrinären und oppositionellen Choreographien in Ostdeutschland. Der frühere Tänzer und Dramaturg (Tanzbühne Leipzig) Jens Richard Giersdorf verbindet Archivrecherchen, critical theory, Interviews und persönliche Berichte mit tanzwissenschaftlichen Analysen unterschiedlicher Performances (individuelle Improvisationen, Massenbewegungen, Volks- und Gesellschaftstänze sowie Bühnenchoreografien). Die Studie schließt damit eine Lücke in der Tanzgeschichtsschreibung und stellt zugleich tanzwissenschaftliche Modelle zum kritischen Verständnis von Phänomenen wie nationaler Identität, Ideologie, Widerstand, Diaspora, Verkörperung und künstlerischer Moderne vor.
Passing an Enhanced Turing Test – Interacting with Lifelike Computer Representations of Specific Individuals
Authors: Gonzalez Avelino J. , Leigh Jason , DeMara Ronald F. , Johnson Andrew , Jones Steven , Lee Sangyoon , Hung Victor , Renambot Luc , Leon-Barth Carlos , Brown Maxine , Elvir Miguel , Hollister James , Kobosko Steven
Published: March 2015

This article describes research to build an embodied conversational agent (ECA) as an interface to a question-and-answer (Q/A) system about a National Science Foundation (NSF) program. We call this ECA the LifeLike Avatar, and it can interact with its users in spoken natural language to answer general as well as specific questions about specific topics. In an idealized case, the LifeLike Avatar could conceivably provide a user with a level of interaction such that he or she would not be certain as to whether he or she is talking to the actual person via video teleconference. This could be considered a (vastly) extended version of the seminal Turing test. Although passing such a test is still far off, our work moves the science in that direction. The Uncanny Valley notwithstanding, applications of such lifelike interfaces could include those where specific instructors/caregivers could be represented as stand-ins for the actual person in situations where personal representation is important. Possible areas that come to mind that might benefit from these lifelike ECAs include health-care support for elderly/disabled patients in extended home care, education/training, and knowledge preservation. Another more personal application would be to posthumously preserve elements of the persona of a loved one by family members. We apply this approach to a Q/A system for knowledge preservation and dissemination, where the specific individual who had this knowledge was to retire from the US National Science Foundation. The system is described in detail, and evaluations were performed to determine how well the system was perceived by users.
Crystal structure of 2,3-dihydro-2,2-di(pyridin-2-yl)-1H-benzo[d]- imidazole, C17H14N4
Authors: Habarurema Gratien , Gerber Thomas I. A. , Hosten Eric C. , Betz Richard
Published: March 2015

C17H14N4, orthorhombic, P212121 (no. 19), a = 10.3837(3) Å, b = 10.4793(3) Å, c = 26.7515(7) Å, V = 2910.9 Å3, Z = 8, Rgt(F) = 0.0341, wRref(F2) = 0.0909, T = 200 K.
Crystal structure of 6-(benz-1H-imidazol-2-yl)-2,3-dihydropyridazin-3-one —N,N-dimethylformamide (1:1), C14H15N5O2
Authors: Tian Chong , Nie Wanli , Yang Xiaorong , Xiong Jun Ru , Borzov Maxim V.
Published: March 2015

C14H15N5O2, orthorhombic, Pbca (no. 61), a = 7.1378(3) Å, b = 12.0046(4) Å, c = 32.1450(13) Å, V = 2754.4 Å3, Z = 8, Rgt(F) = 0.0452, wRref(F2) = 0.1009, T = 120 K.
Benzhydrylium and tritylium ions: complementary probes for examining ambident nucleophiles
Authors: Ofial Armin R.
Published: March 2015

The linear free energy relationship log k = sN(N + E) (eq. 1), in which E is an electrophilicity, N is a nucleophilicity, and s
N is a nucleophile-dependent sensitivity parameter, is a reliable tool for predicting rate constants of bimolecular electrophile-nucleophile combinations. Nucleophilicity scales that are based on eq. (1) rely on a set of structurally similar benzhydrylium ions (Ar2CH+) as reference electrophiles. As steric effects are not explicitely considered, eq. (1) cannot unrestrictedly be employed for reactions of bulky substrates. Since, on the other hand, the reactions of tritylium ions (Ar3C+) with hydride donors, alcohols, and amines were found to follow eq. (1), tritylium ions turned out to be complementary tools for probing organic reactivity. Kinetics of the reactions of Ar3C+ with π-nucleophiles (olefins), n-nucleophiles (amines, alcohols, water), hydride donors and ambident nucleophiles, such as the anions of 5-substituted Meldrum’s acids, are discussed to analyze the applicability of tritylium ions as reference electrophiles.
Mechanistic insights from mass spectrometry: examination of the elementary steps of catalytic reactions in the gas phase
Authors: Vikse Krista L. , McIndoe J. Scott
Published: March 2015

Real-time mass spectrometric monitoring of speciation in a catalytic reaction while it is occurring provides powerful insights into mechanistic aspects of the reaction, but cannot be expected to elucidate all details. However, mass spectrometers are not limited just to analysis: they can serve as reaction vessels in their own right, and given their powers of separation and activation in the gas phase, they are also capable of generating and isolating reactive intermediates. We can use these capabilities to help fill in our overall understanding of the catalytic cycle by examining the elementary steps that make it up. This article provides examples of how these simple reactions have been examined in the gas phase.
Functionalization of polyolefin melts containing carbon nanotubes and the properties of their blends with polyamide 6
Authors: Krivoguz Yuri M. , Makarenko Olga A. , Pesetskii Stepan S.
Published: March 2015

The effect of multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWNT) on the course of reactive-extrusion-free-radical grafting oftrans-ethylene-1, 2-dicarboxylic acid onto linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) and ethylene-propylene copolymer (c-PP) containing ≈7 wt.% ethylene units was studied. The extrusion reactor was the material cylinder of the twin-screw extruder TSSK-35/40 (screw diameter 35 mm; length/diameter ratio=40; 10 independent heating zones). It was found that the extent of the influence of MWNT depends on their concentration and on the PO character. It is shown that monomer grafting efficiency can be improved with a MWNT concentration of ≈0.05 wt% in the reactive system. In free-radical grafting of the cross-linkable LLDPE, the MWNT (≥0.1 wt%) were shown to inhibit the concurrent process of macromolecular cross-linking; in the case of c-PP, which predominantly undergoes degradation during functionalization, the concurrent reactions were observed to accelerate catalytically. In the case of polyamide 6/LLDPE blends, the MWNT promote the strengthening of melt flow junctures that formed during the filling of the die-mold cavity.