bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Three-dimensional Kinetic Pulsar Magnetosphere Models: Connecting to Gamma-Ray Observations
Authors: Kalapotharakos Constantinos , Brambilla Gabriele , Timokhin Andrey , Harding Alice K. , Kazanas Demosthenes
Published: April 2018

We present three-dimensional (3D) global kinetic pulsar magnetosphere models, where the charged particle trajectories and the corresponding electromagnetic fields are treated self-consistently. For our study, we have developed a Cartesian 3D relativistic particle-in-cell code that incorporates radiation reaction forces. We describe our code and discuss the related technical issues, treatments, and assumptions. Injecting particles up to large distances in the magnetosphere, we apply arbitrarily low to high particle injection rates, and obtain an entire spectrum of solutions from close to the vacuum-retarded dipole to close to the force-free (FF) solution, respectively. For high particle injection rates (close to FF solutions), significant accelerating electric field components are confined only near the equatorial current sheet outside the light cylinder. A judicious interpretation of our models allows the particle emission to be calculated, and consequently, the corresponding realistic high-energy sky maps and spectra to be derived. Using model parameters that cover the entire range of spin-down powers of Fermi young and millisecond pulsars, we compare the corresponding model γ-ray light curves, cutoff energies, and total γ-ray luminosities with those observed by Fermi to discover a dependence of the particle injection rate,

, on the spin-down power,

, indicating an increase of

with

. Our models, guided by Fermi observations, provide field structures and particle distributions that are not only consistent with each other but also able to reproduce a broad range of the observed γ-ray phenomenologies of both young and millisecond pulsars.
Possible Bright Starspots on TRAPPIST-1
Authors: Morris Brett M. , Agol Eric , Davenport James R. A. , Hawley Suzanne L.
Published: April 2018

The M8V star TRAPPIST-1 hosts seven roughly Earth-sized planets and is a promising target for exoplanet characterization. Kepler/K2 Campaign 12 observations of TRAPPIST-1 in the optical show an apparent rotational modulation with a 3.3-day period, though that rotational signal is not readily detected in the Spitzer light curve at 4.5 μm. If the rotational modulation is due to starspots, persistent dark spots can be excluded from the lack of photometric variability in the Spitzer light curve. We construct a photometric model for rotational modulation due to photospheric bright spots on TRAPPIST-1 that is consistent with both the Kepler and Spitzer light curves. The maximum-likelihood model with three spots has typical spot sizes of R
spot/R
⋆ ≈ 0.004 at temperature T
spot ≳ 5300 ± 200 K. We also find that large flares are observed more often when the brightest spot is facing the observer, suggesting a correlation between the position of the bright spots and flare events. In addition, these flares may occur preferentially when the spots are increasing in brightness, which suggests that the 3.3-day periodicity may not be a rotational signal, but rather a characteristic timescale of active regions.
Gravitational Waves from Accreting Neutron Stars Undergoing Common-envelope Inspiral
Authors: Holgado A. Miguel , Ricker Paul M. , Huerta E. A.
Published: April 2018

The common-envelope phase is a likely formation channel for close binary systems containing compact objects. Neutron stars in common envelopes accrete at a fraction of the Bondi–Hoyle–Lyttleton accretion rate, since the stellar envelope is inhomogeneous, but they may still be able to accrete at hypercritical rates (though not enough to become black holes). We show that common-envelope systems consisting of a neutron star with a massive primary may be gravitational-wave (GW) sources detectable in the Advanced LIGO band as far away as the Magellanic Clouds. To characterize their evolution, we perform orbital integrations using 1D models of 12 M
⊙ and 20 M
⊙ primaries, considering the effects of density gradient on the accretion onto the NS and spin evolution. From the range of possible accretion rates relevant to common-envelope evolution, we find that these systems may be louder GW sources than low-mass X-ray binaries like Sco X-1, which are currently the target of directed searches for continuous GWs. We also find that their strain amplitude signal may allow for novel constraints on the orbital separation and inspiral timescale in common envelopes when combined with pre-common-envelope electromagnetic observations.
Methodical approaches to bioassay of substances containing unstable functional groups
Authors: Khokhlov Alexander L. , Yaichkov Ilya I. , Dzhurko Yuriy A. , Shitov Leonid N. , Shitova Anastasia M.
Published: April 2018

Introduction: This article describes the method development approaches for bioassay of substances containing unstable functional groups and forming unstable metabolites using the example of mycophenolic acid, methyldopa and mebeverine metabolites.

Materials and Methods: The concentration of mycophenolic acid, which contains one phenolic hydroxyl and forms glucuronides during metabolism, was measured in plasma using HPLC-MS/MS, HPLC-MS and GC-MS. The determination of methyldopa, containing two phenolic hydroxyls, in stabilised plasma was performed by HPLC-MS/MS in the range of 0.02-3.00 μg/ml. Desmethyl mebeverine acid, which contains one phenolic hydroxyl and is metabolised by forming phenolic glucuronide, was assayed simultaneously with mebeverine acid in the range of 10-2000 ng/ml.

Results and Discussion: The selection of storage conditions of the samples containing unstable substances should begin with selecting an anticoagulant based on the study of its short-term stability and freeze/thaw stability. If an unacceptable result is obtained, a combination of the anticoagulant and a stabiliser solution, as well as a concentration of this solution and its volume ratio to the biological fluid should be titrated. After which, this method should be validated by using the selected anticoagulant or the combination of the anticoagulant and stabiliser solution.

Conclusion: The application of this approach to developing a bioanalytical method for determination of unstable compounds makes it possible to avoid obtaining false assay results.
Mère « je fais tout », des pratiques éducatives populaires en tension
Authors: Stettinger Vanessa
Published: April 2018

Dans les ménages appartenant aux fractions médianes et stabilisées des classes populaires, les tâches relatives à l’éducation des enfants sont prises en charge de façon presque unilatérale par les femmes, qui se voient dans certains cas obligées de mettre en retrait leur vie professionnelle. Ces femmes sont ainsi les premières responsables de la transmission des normes éducatives censées faire réussir leurs enfants : le cadrage des heures du coucher, une alimentation saine, le suivi des devoirs, la gestion des activités extrascolaires. Mais ces normes étant issues des classes dominantes, elles représentent un coût pour elles, rappelant le décalage entre les normes et les ressources dont elles disposent pour les mettre en place. C’est lors des moments où elles se rapprochent des pratiques populaires qu’elles soufflent et retrouvent des moments plus heureux en famille.
Les femmes dans les classes populaires, entre permanence et rupture
Authors: Schwartz Olivier
Published: April 2018

L’article porte sur la question de la place des femmes dans la famille au sein des classes populaires dans la société française contemporaine et sur les évolutions qui ont affecté cette place au cours des dernières décennies. La littérature sociologique et historiographique a mis en évidence, de longue date, des caractéristiques récurrentes de cette place dans les classes populaires des xix e et xx e siècles. Les monographies réalisées dans le cadre du projet « Le populaire aujourd’hui » permettent d’examiner ce qu’il en est dans l’actuelle société française. Elles font apparaître des transformations importantes, tant dans les modes de fonctionnement des couples que dans les aspirations des femmes, signe que les membres des milieux populaires d’aujourd’hui sont loin de ne faire que reproduire leurs modes de vie traditionnels. Ces transformations coexistent avec des continuités, que les données font également apparaître. L’article fait le point sur ces changements et ces permanences, et examine comment, sous l’effet de ces différents phénomènes, se dessine aujourd’hui la place des femmes dans les familles populaires.
Considering Ketamine for Treatment of Comorbid Pain, Depression, and Substance Use Disorders
Authors: Ettensohn Marc F. , Markey Sara M. , Levine Steven P.
Published: April 2018

The use of ketamine for treatment of comorbid pain, depression, and substance use disorders (SUDs) is becoming an option of increasing interest, as multiple clinical studies demonstrate its efficacy. Ketamine's efficacy in this diagnostically complex population is mechanistically based on a wide array of affected brain areas in addition to presynaptic neurons of the spine. Efficacy has been shown in both depressive and pain disorders with durability lasting 3 to 4 weeks after discontinuation of ketamine. Although ketamine itself is a drug of potential abuse when used recreationally, its lasting effects without repeated daily use have also shown promise for patients with SUDs. Assisted psychotherapy concurrent with ketamine treatment can help dependent patients cultivate new perceptions and ideals consistent with sobriety. Decreased opiate cravings in patients with SUDs may be related to ketamine's effects on reducing opiate-induced hyperalgesia. Given this and additional properties, ketamine can help reduce opiate medication burden, augment opiates in the hospice setting, or acutely alleviate symptoms of opiate withdrawal.

[
Psychiatr Ann.
2018;48(4):180–183.]
Health Literacy, Self-Efficacy, and Associated Factors Among Patients with Diabetes
Authors: Xu Xin Yi , Leung Angela Yee Man , Chau Pui Hing
Published: April 2018

Background:

High levels of health literacy (HL) and self-efficacy (SE) are important steps in managing diabetes. Previous studies have investigated the role played by the individual constructs (HL or SE) on self-care behaviors and health outcomes in patients with diabetes. However, our understanding of the relationship between HL and SE is limited.

Methods:

Literature was searched in PubMed, Medline (via OvidSP), CINAHL (via EBSCOhost), ProQuest Medical Library, and Science Direct using keywords “diabetes,” “diabetic,” “DM,” “T1DM,” “T2DM,” “health literacy,” “HL,” “common HL,” “diabetes HL,” “SE,” “general SE,” and “diabetes SE.” The keywords were limited by “MeSH terms” and “Title and Abstracts.”

Key Results:

Eleven studies were included in this systematic review. Communicative and critical HL were prominent in this relationship. Among the 11 reviewed studies, a positive relationship between communicative/critical HL and SE in diabetes care was illustrated, but the relationship between functional HL and SE remained controversial. Factors positively associated with HL and SE were educational level, employment status, annual income, social support, clarity of the physician's explanation, and empowerment perception.

Discussion:

Health professionals should act to improve communicative and critical HL so that patients may be more confident in managing diabetes. Clarity in health professionals' explanations and social support would be helpful in enabling patients with diabetes to build up their SE and HL.

[
HLRP: Health Literacy Research and Practice
. 2018;2(2):e67–e77.]

Plain Language Summary:

This study is the first systematic review to investigate the relationship between health literacy (HL) and self-efficacy (SE) among persons with diabetes. Even though the relationship between HL and SE needs to be further explored, communicative and critical HL were found to be positively associated with SE. Therefore, to support people in building up SE, health professionals should consider actions that support communication and critical thinking in health settings.
Influencia del mallado en el modelado computacional de incendios en centrales nucleares
Authors: Lázaro D. , Lázaro M. , Peco J. , Alvear D.
Published: April 2018

Los modelos computacionales de incendio permiten estudiar las consecuencias de los incendios en escenarios reales. Su uso para el análisis y la mejora de la seguridad contra incendios en centrales nucleares se ha visto incrementado al publicarse la normativa que permite el empleo de métodos informados por el riesgo y basados en prestaciones. La selección del tamaño de celda es fundamental en estos modelos. El mallado debe establecer un compromiso entre su ajuste a la geometría, la resolución de las ecuaciones y los tiempos de cómputo. El presente artículo estudia distintos tamaños de celda mediante la herramienta FDS, con el objetivo de evaluar su influencia en los resultados simulados. Como punto de referencia se emplearon escenarios de interés en centrales nucleares. Los resultados ofrecen datos relevantes para los usuarios, mostrando los tamaños de celda óptimos para garantizar la calidad de las simulaciones y reducir las incertidumbres en sus resultados.
Characterization of non-typhoidal Salmonella enterica strains of human origin in central and southern Italy
Authors: Proroga Yolande T.R. , Capuano Federico , Capparelli Rosanna , Bilei Stefano , Bernardo Mariano , Cocco Maria Pia , Campagnuolo Rosalba , Pasquale Vincenzo
Published: April 2018

Non-typhoidal Salmonella enterica infection is a significant public health problem worldwide. The aim of this study was to characterize Salmonella enterica strains isolated from human specimens in central and southern Italy, for epidemiological studies. One hundred and fifty S. enterica strains were serotyped. Isolates were tested for their antimicrobial susceptibility, by disk diffusion method. The molecular characterizations, based on PCR, were carried out for the detection of invA gene and other virulence elements and phage marker genes. Eighteen different Salmonella serotypes were identified. The most common serotypes detected were S. Typhimurium, S. Enteritidis, the monophasic variant of S. Typhimurium (S. 4,[5],12:i:-), and S. Napoli. High resistance rates were recorded for tetracycline (64%), streptomycin (62%), sulphonamide (57%), and ampicillin (56%). The ASSuT R-type, also associated to resistance to other antibiotics, was highly prevalent in S. 4,[5],12:i:- (97%) and S. Typhimurium (55%), while the ACSSuT Rtype, also associated to other antibiotics, was observed prevalently in S. Typhimurium (20.4%). The genes of more common detection were invA (100%), sspH2 (86.6%), gtgB (84.6%), g8 (80%), sodC1 (77.3%), gipA (52.6%), sspH1 (52.6%).
Microbiological evaluation of ready-to-eat iceberg lettuce during shelf-life and effectiveness of household washing methods
Authors: Bencardino Daniela , Vitali Luca Agostino , Petrelli Dezemona
Published: April 2018

The aim of this study was to assess the microbiological quality of ready-to-eat (RTE) iceberg lettuce. Our investigation was based on the consumption tendency of university students considered a target market for this product. A total of 78 RTE samples were collected from chain supermarkets and analysed for the enumeration of aerobic mesophilic count (AMC), Escherichia coli and the detection of Salmonella spp. and Listeria monocytogenes. All samples were negative for the presence of pathogens. The mean value of AMC at the beginning, in the middle and after the expiration date was: 6.88, 8.51 and 8.72 log CFU g-1, respectively. The same investigation was performed on 12 samples of fresh iceberg lettuce samples. No pathogens were found and the mean value of AMC was lower than the RTE category (5.73 log CFU g-1; P<0.05). The effectiveness of 5 washing methods was determined on 15 samples of both fresh and RTE iceberg lettuce. Samples were washed for 15’ and 30’ in tap water (500 mL), tap water with NaCl (4 g/500 mL), tap water with bicarbonate (8 g/500 mL), tap water with vinegar (10 mL/500 mL) and tap water with chlorine-based disinfectant (10 mL/500 mL). A significant bacterial load reduction was recorded for vinegar and disinfectant after 30’ and 15’, respectively. Overall, these results showed that RTE iceberg lettuce is more contaminated than the fresh product. Also, the consumption in the first few days of packaging and after washing with disinfectants reduces the risk for health consumers.
Praedicere Possumus: An Italian web-based application for predictive microbiology to ensure food safety
Authors: Polese Pierluigi , Del Torre Manuela , Stecchini Mara Lucia
Published: April 2018

The use of predictive modelling tools, which mainly describe the response of microorganisms to a particular set of environmental conditions, may contribute to a better understanding of microbial behaviour in foods. In this paper, a tertiary model, in the form of a readily available and userfriendly web-based application Praedicere Possumus (PP) is presented with research examples from our laboratories. Through the PP application, users have access to different modules, which apply a set of published models considered reliable for determining the compliance of a food product with EU safety criteria and for optimising processing throughout the identification of critical control points. The application pivots around a growth/no-growth boundary model, coupled with a growth model, and includes thermal and non-thermal inactivation models. Integrated functionalities, such as the fractional contribution of each inhibitory factor to growth probability (f) and the time evolution of the growth probability (Pt), have also been included. The PP application is expected to assist food industry and food safety authorities in their common commitment towards the improvement of food safety.
Contribution of natural milk culture to microbiota, safety and hygiene of raw milk cheese produced in alpine malga
Authors: Lucchini Rosaria , Cardazzo Barbara , Carraro Lisa , Negrinotti Michele , Balzan Stefania , Novelli Enrico , Fasolato Luca , Fasoli Franco , Farina Giovanni
Published: April 2018

Processing of alpine milk in malga farms is carried out under conditions that can favor contamination by coliforms, coagulase-positive staphylococci, or pathogens such as Listeria monocytogenes. With the aim to improve the hygienic characteristics and safety of cheese produced in four malga farms the use of lyophilized Natural Milk Culture prepared with selected strains was tested. Two cheesemaking tests were carried out in the same day always starting from the same milk: in the first case following the malga recipe that uses either Natural Whey Culture or without the addition of a starter, in the second one using a Natural Milk Culture. Cheesemaking were carried out in four malga farms located in the west area of Trentino region within the same week. For hygienic and safety evaluation, aerobic colony count, coagulase-positive staphylococci, Escherichia coli, staphylococcal toxins, Listeria monocytogenes , and Salmonella spp, pH and aw were determined in raw milk from evening and morning milking, curd in vat, curd after extraction and two months-ripened cheese. Pathogens or toxins, high values of coagulase- positive staphylococci and E. coli were not found in cheese samples. However, in the curd coagulase-positive staphylococci reached values almost of 5 Log CFU/g in the two malga without starter cultures. The use of Natural Milk Culture reduced E. coli counts. In addition, DNA was extracted from cheese samples and from Natural Milk Culture and the composition of the microbial community determined by Next Generation Sequencing method. The determination of cheese microbial communities demonstrated that the use of Natural Milk Culture exerted different effects in the different malga, in any case preserving bacterial biodiversity.
Case report of a pustular dermatitis outbreak in sheep: Clinical and food safety considerations
Authors: Roccaro Mariana , Piva Silvia , Scagliarini Alessandra , Giacometti Federica , Serraino Andrea , Merialdi Giuseppe , Frasnelli Matteo , Romano Angelo , Bellio Alberto , Decastelli Lucia , Peli Angelo
Published: April 2018

The objective of this report is to describe an outbreak of pustular dermatitis in a flock of about 200 sheep, its clinical evolution and food safety implications. The onset of the symptoms was sudden and the lesions spread very quickly from ewe to ewe, so that in about 3 days almost all of the lactating sheep were stricken. Pustules from 5 different animals, six milk samples, two cheese samples, teat cup samples from the milking machine and farmer’s hands were analysed. A pure culture of Staphylococcus aureus, producing staphylococcal enterotoxin (SE) C, was isolated from pustules. Milk and cheese showed a contamination by coagulase positive staphylococci <15 and 30 colony forming units respectively and the absence of SE. Farmer’s hands and teat cups samples resulted negative for coagulase positive staphylococci. Therapy with daily topical medicaments was prescribed and a prophylactic intervention was suggested by the administration of an autovaccine. The low level of milk and cheese contamination and the absence of SE in cheese supported the decision to not advise the farmer to recall cheese produced with milk from affected animals.
Clinico-radiologic Profile of Pediatric Traumatic Brain Injury in Western Rajasthan
Authors: Dara Pawan Kumar , Parakh Manish , Choudhary Shyama , Jangid Hemant , Kumari Priyanka , Khichar Satyendra
Published: April 2018

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate clinico-radiological profile and outcome of pediatric traumatic brain injury (TBI). Design: Prospective observational study Setting: Intensive Care Unit, ward and OPD of Pediatrics, Dr. S. N. Medical College, Jodhpur (tertiary care hospital). Participants: A total of 188 children (1 month–18 years) were enrolled and 108 admitted. Intervention: TBI classified as mild, moderate, or severe TBI. Neuroimaging was done and managed as per protocol. Demographic profile, mode of transport, and injury were recorded. Outcome: Measured as hospital stay duration, focal deficits, mortality, and effect of early physiotherapy. Results: Males slightly outnumbered females mean age was 5.41 ± 4.20 years. Fall from height was the main cause of TBI (61.11%) followed by road traffic accident (RTA) (27.78%). Majority (56.56%) reached hospital within 6 h of injury, out of which 27% of patients were unconscious. Mild, moderate, and severe grade of TBI was seen in 50%, 27.78%, and 22.22% of cases, respectively. About 12.96% of cases required ventilator support. The average duration of hospital stay was 11.81 ± 12.9 days and was lesser when physiotherapy and rehabilitation were started early. In all children with temporal bone fracture, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) brain revealed a temporal lobe hematoma and contusion in spite of initial computed tomography (CT) head normal. Children who have cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) rhinorrhea/otorrhea had a high chance of fracture of base of skull and contusion of the basal part of the brain. Conclusion: In India, fall from height is common setting for pediatric TBI besides RTA. Early initiation of physiotherapy results in good outcome. MRI detects basal brain contusions in children presenting with CSF rhinorrhea/otorrhea even if initial CT brain is normal.
Prevalence of Psychiatric Illness among Residents of Old Age Homes in Northern India
Authors: Akbar Shamsi , Tiwari S. C. , Tripathi Rakesh K. , Pandey Nisha M. , Kumar Ambrish
Published: April 2018

Context: There are many factors which compelled older adults to live in old age homes (OAHs) and vulnerable to psychological problems. Studies reported high prevalence of mental health problems (20%–60%) among elderlies of OAHs. Therefore, the study was conducted to explore prevalence of psychiatric illness (PI) among residents of OAHs of Northern India. Settings and Design: The present study was conducted in OAHs of Districts Bareilly, Lucknow, Varanasi, Dehradun, and Haridwar, using cross-sectional descriptive study method. Sample Size were 306 (male – 98 [32.5%] and female n = 208 [68%]) residing in OAHs selected by means of purposive sampling. Subjects and Methods: Inclusion criteria: (a) older adults aged 60 years and above residing in OAHs and able to communicate. (b) Staying in OAHs for 6 months or more. (c) Able to understand comprehends and reply to questions and (d) Giving written informed consent. Exclusion criteria: (a) Residents who declined/not interested to participate in the study. (b) Residents having any sensory impairment/physical health problem which can impede the interview. Research tools were (i) a semi-structured pro forma, (ii) Hindi Mental Status Examination, (iii) Survey psychiatric assessment schedule, and (iv) Schedules for clinical assessment in neuropsychiatry-based clinical interview for diagnosis of PIs according to International Classification of Disease 10. Statistical Analysis Used: The quantitative data obtained was analyzed by means of frequency tables. Results: The results show overall prevalence of PI is 43% among residents of OAHs. The prevalence of PI was found to be higher among females compared to males. Depression was the most common among the residents of OAHs. Conclusions: There is an urgent need of trained professionals to provide professional help for highly prevalent psychiatric disorders among residents of OAHs.
Changing Pattern of Childhood Epidemic Cerebrospinal Meningitis in North-Western Nigeria
Authors: Mado Sani , Aliyu Ibrahim , Murtala Rabiu
Published: April 2018

Introduction: Nigeria lies within the meningitis belt which extends from the Gambia, Senegal through Nigeria to Eritrea; however, outbreaks have been shown to extend further south involving countries such as Angola and Namibia. Epidemic outbreaks are often recorded every 8–12 years averaging in a 10 yearly circle however endemic cases still occurs. Materials and Methods: The study was retrospective; all results of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples of children with cases of meningitis from January 2010 to December 2010 were collected from the register of the microbiology laboratory of General Hospital Gusau. Relevant information such as their age, sex, CSF macroscopy/microscopy reports, latex particle agglutination test report, and CSF culture report were retrieved and entered into a pro forma. Results: There were 89 (73%) males and 33 (27%) females with male to female ratio of 2.7:1. The age ranged from 2 months to 14 years; the mean was 6.27 ± 4.00 years. Meningitis was mostly recorded from January to April. W135 was the most common serotype identified. Majority of the samples (54) which were nonreactive for any of the tested antigens had clear CSF (36), while among those that reacted; the W135 group had a high proportion of cases that had turbid CSF (44); (Fisher's exact test = 30.650, P = 0.000). Majority of the samples (99) had no cell count; although those of the W135 group had higher cell counts followed by those in the nonreactive group (Fisher's exact test = 11.226, P = 0.181). Conclusion: Meningitis was highest between January and April, and W135 was the most common serotype.
The Conundrum of Ventricular Dilatations Following Decompressive Craniectomy: Is Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt, The Only Panacea?
Authors: Kutty Raja K. , Sreemathyamma Sunilkumar Balakrishnan , Sivanandapanicker Jyothish , Asher Prasanth , Prabhakar Rajmohan Bhanu , Peethambaran Anilkumar , Libu Gnanaseelan Kanakamma
Published: April 2018

Introduction:Ventriculomegaly and hydrocephalus (HCP) are sometimes a bewildering sequela of decompressive craniectomy (DC). The distinguishing criteria between both are less well defined. Majority of the studies quoted in the literature have defined HCP radiologically, rather than considering the clinical status of the patient. Accordingly, these patients have been treated with permanent cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) diversion procedures. We hypothesize that asymptomatic ventriculomegaly following DC should undergo aspiration with cranioplasty and be followed up regularly. Materials and Methods: All patients with post-DC who were scheduled for cranioplasty and satisfied the radiological criteria for HCP were included. These patients were categorized into two groups. Group 1 included ventriculomegaly with clinical signs attributable to HCP and Group 2 constituted ventriculomegaly but no clinical signs attributable to HCP. All patients in Group 1 underwent ventriculoperitoneal shunt followed by cranioplasty, whereas all patients in Group 2 underwent cranioplasty along with simultaneous ventriculostomy and temporary aspiration of the lateral ventricle. All patients were regularly followed as the outpatient basis. Results: There were 21 patients who developed ventriculomegaly following DC. There were 10 patients in Group 1 and 11 patients in Group 2. The average duration of follow-up was from 6 months to 2 years. Two patients in the shunt group - (group 1) had over drainage and required revision. One patient in aspiration group - (group 2) required permanent CSF diversion. Conclusion: Cranioplasty with aspiration is a viable option in selected group of patients in whom there is ventriculomegaly but no signs or symptoms attributable to HCP.
Rare Cranial Nerve Schwannomas: A Retrospective Review of Nontrigeminal, Nonvestibular Cranial Nerve Schwannomas
Authors: Deora Harsh , Srinivas Dwarakanath , Beniwal Manish , Vikas V. , Rao K. V. L. N. , Somanna Sampath
Published: April 2018

Introduction: Intracranial schwannomas arising from non-trigeminal and non-vestibular sources are extremely rare constituting <0.8% of all schwannomas. In this article, we have analyzed our experience in the management of these rare tumors over a 10-year period. Material and Methods: There were a total of 16 cases, with 11 of them undergoing microsurgical resection and 5 undergoing stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS). Results: There were no fresh neurological deficit in any of these patients and two patients underwent postoperative SRS for residual tumor. One patient died due to postoperative septicemia. Conclusion: Knowledge of these lesions along with their clinicoradiological profile is essential to maintain a high index of suspicion and understand the nuances of treatment.
The Role of Ejection Fraction to Clinical Outcome of Acute Ischemic Stroke Patients
Authors: Rahmayani Fidha , Setyopranoto Ismail ,   Paryono
Published: April 2018

Aims: The aim of the study was to determine the effect of left ventricular ejection fraction on clinical outcomes of acute ischemic stroke patients. Study Design: This study design was a prospective cohort observational study. Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted at Stroke Unit, Neurology Ward, and Cardiology Ward at the Dr. Sardjito Hospital, Yogyakarta, Indonesia, between July and December 2016. Materials and Methods: Hospitalized acute ischemic stroke patients were recruited, with sample was taken by consecutive sampling until reaching amount fulfilling inclusion criterion was 62 persons. In this study, clinical outcomes were measured by National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) scores as well as dependent variables and left ventricular ejection fraction as independent variables. Logistic regression analyses were performed to discover any potential independent variable that can influence the left ventricular ejection fraction role at the clinical outcomes with NIHSS scores. Results: Multivariate analyses revealed that several variables were significantly interacted with the influence of left ventricular ejection fraction at the clinical outcomes with NIHSS scores. These variables were the left ventricular ejection fraction <48% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.691–0.925; P = 0.001), left ventricular ejection fraction + low high-density lipoprotein (HDL) (95% CI: 0.73–0.949; P = 0,001), left ventricular ejection fraction + diabetes mellitus (DM) (95% CI: 0.799–0.962; P = 0,001), and left ventricular ejection fraction + low HDL + DM (95% CI: 0.841–0.98; P = 0,001). Conclusion: The influence of the lower left ventricular ejection fraction to clinical outcome of ischemic stroke patients has a worsening of neurological deficit outcome by considering the combination of several independent variables including the DM and low HDL.
Bedside Ultrasonography as an Alternative to Computed Tomography Scan for the Measurement of Optic Nerve Sheath Diameter
Authors: Yanamandra Uday , Gupta Amul , Yanamandra Sushma , Das Subrat Kumar , Patyal Sagarika , Nair Velu
Published: April 2018

Background: Optic nerve sheath diameter (ONSD) as measured by optic nerve sheath ultrasonography (ONSU) is used as a surrogate marker of intracranial pressure (ICP), especially in resource-limited settings. There is a growing interest in the use of ONSU in emergency and high-altitude setups. Notwithstanding multiple studies done on this subject, there is a paucity of data regarding standardization of techniques and comparison of ONSU with computed tomography (CT). Materials and Methods: Thirty-five patients with a diagnosis of high-altitude cerebral edema were enrolled in the study. ONSD was measured in all patients using ONSU, along visual and coronal axis, and CT scan. We repeated ONSU in these patients on days 3, 7, 10, and 15 (day of discharge). Correlation between visual and coronal axis as well as CT scan was analyzed. Results: The correlation of visual to coronal and coronal to visual was equally significant (both correlation coefficients being R
2 = 0.983). Correlation of ONSD by visual axis to CT scan was better than coronal axis (correlation coefficient R
2 = 0.986 vs. 0.96, respectively). Conclusion: In our study, we found a strong correlation between the visual and coronal axes. Thus, either of the two axes can be used for monitoring ICP. However, it has been found that measurements along the coronal axis are challenging, especially in the emergency setup. ONSD measured along visual axis correlated better with CT scan as compared to the coronal axis.
Obsessive-Compulsive Inventory-Revised: Factor Structure, Reliability, Validity, and Suicide Risk Screening Characteristics among Nigerian Patients with Schizophrenia
Authors: Opakunle Tolulope , Aloba Olutayo , Akinsulore Adesanmi , Opakunle Olubukola , Fatoye Femi
Published: April 2018

Objective: This study attempted to explore the feasibility of use of the 18-item Obsessive-Compulsive Inventory-Revised (OCI-R) as a subjective suicide risk assessment tool in a cross-sectional sample of Nigerian patients with schizophrenia. Materials and Methods: Two hundred and thirty-two outpatients with schizophrenia were recruited from the mental health clinic of a university teaching hospital in Southwestern Nigeria. They completed the OCI-R in addition to the Social and Occupational Functioning Assessment Scale, the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale, and a sociodemographic and illness-related questionnaire. The patients were objectively interviewed with the Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview suicidality module items to assess their suicide risk. Results: The 18-item OCI-R demonstrated satisfactory sensitivity (0.900) and specificity (0.662) at a total cutoff score of 10 in relation to the identification of Nigerian patients with schizophrenia with significant suicide risk. At this cutoff score, the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.817 (95% confidence interval: 0.735–0.898), and positive predictive value (0.726) and negative predictive value (0.869) were also satisfactory. The OCI-R also demonstrated satisfactory internal consistency and construct validity. Conclusion: The OCI-R has demonstrated to be useful as a subjective suicide risk assessment tool among Nigerian schizophrenia patients.
Practical consensus recommendatons for Paget’s disease in breast cancer
Authors: Gaurav A. , Gupta V. , Koul R. , Dabas S. , Sareen R. , Geeta K. , Arora V. , Parikh Purvish M. , Aggarwal S.
Published: April 2018

Paget's disease of the breast is a rare type of cancer of the nipple–areola complex and that is often associated with an underlying in situ or invasive carcinoma. Diagnosis and treatment of Paget's disease is controversial. Expert oncologists discuss on the update on the approaches of Paget's disease diagnosis and its treatment options. This expert group used data from published literature, practical experience and opinion of a large group of academic oncologists to arrive at this practical consensus recommendations for the benefit of community oncologists.
Practical consensus recommendations for gestational breast cancer
Authors: Sekhon J. S. , Naik N. , Bansal P. , Bansal I. , Dhull A. , Goel A. , Ramachandran C. S. , Shinde S. , Aggarwal S. , Parikh P. M.
Published: April 2018

This manuscript provides a practical and easy to use consensus recommendation to community oncologists on how to manage gestational breast cancer.
Practical consensus recommendations regarding the use of hormonal therapy in metastatic breast cancer
Authors: Rajappa Senthil , Bajpai J. , Basade M. , Ganvir M. , Goswami C. , Murali A. , Rathi A. K. , Kaushal V. , Jain S. , Parikh Purvish M. , Aggarwal S.
Published: April 2018

Metastatic breast cancer (MBC) is cancer that has spread from the breast to another part of the body or has come back in another distant location. Treatment options for MBC depend on several factors. One of these factors is the levels of hormone receptors (HRs) in the tumor. Cancers with high levels of HRs, called HR-positive, use the hormones estrogen and progesterone to grow and spread. Hormonal therapy is a type of treatment specifically for HR-positive breast cancer. This expert group used data from published literature, practical experience and opinion of a large group of academic oncologists to arrive at these practical consensus recommendations in regards with the use of hormonal therapy and the management of HR-positive MBC for the benefit of community oncologists.
ESCOLHAS CONTÁBEIS NA DEMONSTRAÇÃO DOS FLUXOS DE CAIXA NO CONTEXTO DO MERCADO DE CAPITAIS BRASILEIRO
Authors: Maciel Flávia Fonte de Souza , Salotti Bruno Meirelles , Imoniana Joshua Onome
Published: April 2018

As normas contábeis brasileiras, através do Pronunciamento Técnico CPC 03, estabelecem opções de classificação na Demonstração dos Fluxos de Caixa (DFC) dos fluxos de caixa relacionados a juros, dividendos e juros sobre capital próprio, pagos e recebidos, em linha com a norma internacional IAS 7. Apesar dessa liberdade de escolha, o CPC 03, parágrafo 34A, encoraja fortemente certas classificações de tais fluxos de caixa. Este trabalho busca verificar se a maioria das empresas não financeiras do mercado de capitais brasileiro segue o referido encorajamento, e identificar uma relação entre características (setor e firma de auditoria) das empresas e suas escolhas de classificação na DFC, no período de 2008 a 2014. Com uma amostra de 352 empresas, 2.323 relatórios de auditores e DFCs analisados, e 3.821 dados levantados, os resultados apontaram que: i) a maior parte das empresas brasileiras segue as classificações encorajadas pelo parágrafo 34A do CPC 03, exceto quanto ao item dividendos/JCP recebidos; ii) as empresas dos setores “Máquinas Industriais” e “Têxtil” seguiram uma classificação predominante em todos os itens que possuem flexibilidade de apresentação na DFC; e, iii) há classificações predominantes em todos itens para empresas auditadas pela PwC. Finalmente, quanto ao tema escolhas contábeis, este trabalho contribui ao identificar possíveis influências que direcionam a escolha de classificação na DFC.
Measurement and modeling of the multi-wavelength optical properties of
uncoated flame-generated soot
Authors: Forestieri Sara D. , Helgestad Taylor M. , Lambe Andrew , Renbaum-Wolff Lindsay , Lack Daniel A. , Massoli Paola , Cross Eben S. , Dubey Manvendra K. , Mazzoleni Claudio , Olfert Jason , Freedman Andrew , Davidovits Paul , Onasch Timothy B. , Cappa Christopher D.
Published: April 2018

Abstract. Optical properties of flame-generated black carbon (BC) containing soot particles were quantified at multiple wavelengths for particles produced using two different flames, a methane diffusion flame and an ethylene premixed flame. Measurements were made for: (i) nascent soot particles, (ii) thermally denuded nascent particles, and (iii) particles that were coated then thermally denuded, leading to collapse of the initially lacy, fractal-like morphology. The measured mass absorption coefficients (MAC) depended on soot maturity and generation, but were similar between flames for similar conditions. For mature soot, here corresponding to particles with volume-equivalent diameters > ~ 160 nm, the MAC and absorption Angstrom exponent values were independent of particle collapse while the single scatter albedo increased. The MAC values for these larger particles were also size-independent. Effective, theory-specific complex refractive index (RI) values are derived from the observations with two widely-used methods: Lorenz-Mie theory and the Rayleigh-Debye-Gans (RDG) approximation. Mie theory systematically under-predicts the observed absorption cross-sections at all wavelengths for larger particles (with x > 0.9) independent of the complex RI used, while RDG provides good agreement. Importantly, this implies that the use of Mie theory within air quality and climate models, as is common, likely leads to under-predictions in the absorption by BC, with the extent of under-prediction depending on the assumed BC size distribution and complex RI used. We suggest that it is more appropriate to assume a constant, size-independent (but wavelength-specific) MAC to represent absorption by uncoated BC particles within models.
The last interglacial (MIS 5e) cycle
at
Little Bahama Bank:
A history of climate and sea-level changes
Authors: Zhuravleva Anastasia , Bauch Henning A.
Published: April 2018

Abstract. Shallow-water sediments of the Bahama region containing the last interglacial (MIS 5e) are ideal to investigate the region's sensitivity to past climatic and sea level changes. Here we present new faunal, isotopic and XRF-sediment core data from the northern slope of the Little Bahama Bank. The results suggest that the bank top remained flooded across the last interglacial plateau, ~ 129–117 ka, arguing for a relative sea level above −6 m for this time period. In addition, climatic variability, which today is closely coupled with movements of the intertropical convergence zone (ITCZ), is interpreted based on stable isotopes and foraminiferal assemblage records. During early MIS 5e, the mean annual ITCZ position moved northward in line with increased solar forcing and a recovered Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC). The early MIS 5e warmth peak was intersected, however, by a millennial-scale cooling event, consistent with a southward shift in the mean annual ITCZ position. This tropical shift is ascribed to the transitional climatic regime of early MIS 5e, characterized by persistent high-latitude freshening and, thereby, unstable AMOC mode. Our records from the Bahama region demonstrate that not only was there a tight relation between local sedimentation regimes and last interglacial sea level history, via the atmospheric forcing we could further infer an intra-interglacial connectivity between the polar and subtropical latitudes that left its imprint also on the ocean circulation.
Laboratory Spectral Calibration of the TanSat Atmospheric Carbon
Dioxide Grating Spectrometer
Authors: Yang Zhongdong , Zhen Yuquan , Yin Zenshan , Lin Chao , Bi Yanmeng , Liu Wu , Wang Qian , Wang Long , Gu Songyan , Tian Longfei
Published: April 2018

Abstract. TanSat is a key satellite mission in the Chinese Earth Observation program and is designed to measure the global atmospheric column-averaged dry-air CO2 mole fraction by measuring the visible and near-infrared solar-reflected spectra.The first Chinese super-high-resolution grating spectrometer for measuring atmospheric CO2 is aboard TanSat. This spectrometer is a suite incorporating three grating spectrometers that make coincident measurements of reflected sunlight in the near-infrared CO2 band 5 near 1.61 and 2.06 micrometers and in the molecular oxygen (O2) A band at 0.76 micrometers. Their spectral resolving power (λ/Δλ) are ~19000, ~12800 and ~12250 in O2 A-band, WCO2 and SCO2 band respectively. This paper describes the prelaunch spectral calibration of the Atmospheric Carbon dioxide Grating Spectrometer aboard TanSat. Several critical aspects of the spectrometer, including the spectral resolution, spectral dispersion and the instrument line shape function of each channel, that are directly related to producing the Level 1 products were evaluated in this paper. The instrument line shape function of the spectrometer is notably symmetric and perfectly consistent across all channels in three bands.The variations resulting in spectral calibrations and radiometric response errors are negligible. The spectral resolution characterizations meet the mission requirements. The spectral dispersions have excellent consistency in the spatial dimension of each band, and there is good linearity in the spectral dimension of each band. Taken together, these results suggest that the spectral characterizations of the spectrometer aboard TanSat meet the mission requirements.
Age of the Tibetan ice cores
Authors: Hou Shugui , Zhang Wangbin , Wang Chaomin , Wu Shuangye , Wang Yetang , Pang Hongxi , Jenk Theo M. , Schwikowski Margit
Published: April 2018

Abstract. An accurate chronology is the essential first step for a sound understanding of ice core records, however, dating of ice cores drilled from the high elevation glaciers is challenging and often problematic, leading to great uncertainties. The Guliya ice core, drilled to bedrock (308.6 m in length) from the northwestern Tibetan Plateau (TP) and widely used as a benchmark for paleoclimate research, is believed to reach > 500 ka (thousand years) at its bottom. Meanwhile other Tibetan ice cores (i.e., Dasuopu and East Rongbuk in the Himalayas, Puruogangri in the central TP, and Dunde in the northeastern TP) are mostly of the Holocene origin. In this study, we drilled ice cores to bedrock from the Chongce ice cap ~ 30 km from the Guliya ice core drilling site. We performed measurements of 14C, 210Pb, tritium and β-activity for the ice cores, and used these values in a two-parameter flow model to establish the ice core depth-age relationship. The modeled ages of two Chongce ice cores at the ice-bedrock contact are 8.3 ± 6.2/3.6 ka B.P. and 9.0 ± 7.9/3.6 ka B.P. respectively. The significant discrepancy between the Guliya and all other Tibetan ice core chronologies calls for a revisit of this legend ice core record.
Survey of the Protection Mechanisms to the SSL-based Session Hijacking Attacks
Authors: Hossain Md. Shohrab , Paul Arnob , Islam Md. Hasanul , Atiquzzaman Mohammed
Published: April 2018

Web communications between the server and the client are being used extensively. However, session hijacking has become a critical problem for most of the client-server communications. Among different session hijacking attacks, SSL stripping is the most dangerous attack. There are a number of measures proposed to prevent SSL tripping-based session hijacking attacks. However, existing surveys did not summarize all the preventive measures in a comprehensive manner (without much illustration and categorization). The objective of this paper is to provide a  comprehensive survey of existing measures against SSL stripping-based session hijacking attacks and compare those measures. In this paper, we have classified all the existing preventive measures for SSL stripping-based session hijacking attacks into two main categories: client-side measures and serverside measures. We have illustrated the proposed solutions comprehensively with useful diagrams for clarification. We have also compared them based on different performance criteria. This paper will help web security researchers to have a comparative analysis of all solutions for the SSL stripping based attacks, thereby improving existing solutions to better protect the users from session hijacking attacks.