bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty for Ectatic Disease
Authors: Ramos Isaac , Schor Paulo , Luz Allan , Babosa Luciene , Fontes Bruno Machado
Published: May 2013

Recently, deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty (DALK) has received attention for patients with ectatic diseases not affecting the endothelium. However, it was not always so. For years, DALK was overlooked due to the difficulty in achieving good visual results, which were considered weak in comparison with the results of penetrating keratoplasty (PK). DALK was proposed to retain a patient's healthy endothelium; thereby avoiding some possible complications of PK. Preservation of the endothelium contributes to prolonged survival of the button and thus overcomes a major cause of failure after PK. DALK is now accepted as a viable alternative to PK. With advances in surgical techniques, instruments, and imaging technologies, visual results obtained with lamellar keratoplasty are equivalent to visual outcomes with PK, in addition to providing a transplant cost benefit owing to a better transplantation survival rate.

How to cite this article

Luz A, Babosa L, Fontes BM, Ramos I, Schor P, Ambrósio R Jr. Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty for Ectatic Disease. Int J Kerat Ect Cor Dis 2013;2(1):20-27.
History of the Development of the Treatment of Keratoconus
Authors: Barbara Ramez , Abdelaziz Lamis
Published: May 2013

Keratoconus (from Greek meaning horn-shaped cornea) is a degenerative, ectatic disease of the cornea, causing corneal thinning and remodelling into a more conical shape.1 Symptoms include blurring of vision, and a gradual decline in visual acuity.1 It is usually bilateral, but can affect each eye at different severities.1 There are various treatment modalities, both surgical and nonsurgical, both simple and more invasive. Here, we review the history of the development and advances of the wide range of treatment options, since it was first recognized in 1748 up until now.

How to cite this article

Abdelaziz L, Barbara R. History of the Development of the Treatment of Keratoconus. Int J Kerat Ect Cor Dis 2013;2(1):31-33.
Should we use a simple or complex model for moisture recycling and atmospheric moisture tracking?
Authors: van der Ent R. J. , Tuinenburg O. A. , Knoche H.-R. , Kunstmann H. , Savenije H. H. G.
Published: May 2013

Abstract. This paper compares three state-of-the-art atmospheric moisture tracking models. Such models are typically used to study the water component of coupled land and atmosphere models, in particular quantifying moisture recycling and the source-sink relations between evaporation and precipitation. However, there are several atmospheric moisture tracking methods being used in the literature, and depending on the level of aggregation, the assumptions made and the level of detail, the performance of these methods may differ substantially. In this paper, we compare three methods. The RCM-tag method uses highly accurate 3-D water tracking (including phase transitions) directly within a regional climate model (online), while the other two methods (WAM and 3D-T) use a posteriori (offline) water vapour tracking. The original version of WAM makes use of the well-mixed assumption, while 3D-T is a multi-layer model. The a posteriori models are faster and more flexible, but less accurate than online moisture tracking with RCM-tag. In order to evaluate the accuracy of the a posteriori models, we tagged evaporated water from Lake Volta in West Africa and traced it to where it precipitates. It is found that the strong wind shear in West Africa is the main cause of errors in the a posteriori models. The number of vertical layers and the initial release height of tagged water in the model are found to have the most significant influences on the results. With this knowledge small improvements were made to the a posteriori models. It appeared that expanding WAM to a 2 layer model, or a lower release height in 3D-T, led to significantly better results. Finally, we introduced a simple metric to assess wind shear globally and give recommendations about when to use which model. The "best" method, however, very much depends on the spatial extent of the research question as well as the available computational power.
Quasi-synchronous ionospheric and surface latent heat flux anomalies before the 2007 Pu'er earthquake in China
Authors: Qin K. , Wu L. X. , Ouyang X. Y. , Shen X. H. , Zheng S.
Published: May 2013

Abstract. Pre-earthquake ionospheric and thermal anomalies are two widely-reported short-term earthquake precursors. This paper attempts to examine the possible relationship between the ionospheric anomaly and the thermal anomaly related to the 2007 Ms =6.4 Pu'er earthquake. The spatio-temporal statistical analyses of multi-years SLHF data from USA NCEP/NCAR Reanalysis Project reveal that local SLHF enhancements appeared 11, 10 and 7 days before the Pu'er earthquake, respectively. As contrasted to the formerly reported local ionospheric Ne enhancement 9 days before the shocking observed by DEMETER satellite, it is discovered that the SLHF and Ne anomalies are quasi-synchronous and have nice spatial correspondence with the epicentre and the local active faults. Based on current physical models presented, we suggest that the air ionization in Pu'er seismogenic process, possible resulted from radon leaking out and subsequent alpha particles emitting, and/or positive holes activating and recombining, is the common cause of the observed ionospheric and SLHF anomalies before the Pu'er earthquake. This is valuable for understanding the seismogenic coupling processes and for recognizing earthquake anomaly with multiple parameters from integrated Earth observation system.
Treatment of thrombotic microangiopathy with a focus on new treatment options
Authors: Knöbl P.
Published: May 2013

The thrombotic microangiopathies (TMA) are a heterogeneous group of disorders, characterized by microangiopathic haemolytic anaemia with red cell fragmentation, thrombocytopenia and signs of organ dysfunction due to disturbed microcirculation. Current laboratory methods can be used to better distinguish some of these entities. Organ dysfunction can be severe and life-threatening, and immediate start of sufficient therapy is necessary to avoid permanent damage or death. The therapeutic options, however, are often limited to symptomatic measures, and are not standardized or based on high scientific evidence. During the preceding years, not only considerable progress has been made in better diagnosis of TMA, but also new therapeutic strategies have been established. Initial treatment still is based on plasma exchange and symptomatic measures to protect organ function. New concepts (immunosuppression, targeted anti-von Willebrand factor or anti-complement therapy, replacement with recombinant enzymes) are discussed in this article.
Hereditary thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura and the hereditary TTP registry
Authors: Taleghani M. Mansouri , von Krogh A.-S. , Fujimura Y. , George J. N. , Hrachovinova I. , Knöbl P. N. , Quist-Paulsen P. , Schneppenheim R. , Lämmle B. , Hovinga J. A. Kremer
Published: May 2013

Hereditary thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP), also known as Upshaw-Schulman syndrome, is a rare recessively inherited disease. Underlying is a severe constitutional deficiency of the von Willebrand factor-cleaving protease, ADAMTS13, due to compound heterozygous or homozygous mutations in the ADAMTS13 gene. The clinical picture is variable and more and more patients with an adult-onset are diagnosed.

In the majority of countries the only available treatment is plasma, which when administered regularly can efficiently prevent acute disease bouts. The decision to initiate regular prophylaxis is often not easy, as evidence based guidelines and long term outcome data are lacking. Through the hereditary TTP registry (www.ttpregistry.net, ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT01257269), which was initiated in 2006 and is open to all patients diagnosed with Upshaw-Schulman syndrome and their family members, we aim to gain further information and insights into this rare disease, which eventually will help to improve clinical management of affected patients.
Pollen production in selected species of anemophilous plants
Authors: Piotrowska Krystyna
Published: May 2013

In the study, structural features of flowers of the following allergenic plant species were analysed: Betula verrucosa, Secale cereale, Rumex acetosella, Plantago major and Artemisia vulgaris. Pollen production was established by calculating the number of pollen grains produced by the stamen, flower and inflorescence. The dates of occurrence and pollen grains concentration in the air of Lublin were determined. A positive correlation was found between the length of anthers and the number of pollen grains produced. The largest number of pollen grains per anther is produced by Secale cereale (22 360), whereas the smallest one by Plantago major (5 870). The other species produced intermediate numbers of pollen grains in the anther: Betula verrucosa - 11 160, Rumex acetosella - 10 850, Artemisia vulgaris - 9 580. The birch pollen season in Lublin lasts about a month, and pollen of this taxon reaches the highest airborne concentrations among the studied taxa. Low values of pollen concentrations are characteristic for rye and plantain, whereas slightly higher values are recorded for sorrel pollen. Mugwort pollen reaches high concentrations which are noted at the beginning of August.
Morphological diversity of pollen from selected species of the genus Taraxacum, according to their ploidal level
Authors: Marciniuk Jolanta , Rudzińska-Langwald Anna
Published: May 2013

The study of the morphology of pollen concerned eight species of the genus Taraxacum. Seven types were chosen with a different number of chromosomes belonging to the section Palustria: Taraxacum paucilobum 2n = 3x = 24, T. subdolum 2n = 3x =24, T. subpolonicum 2n =3x = 24, T. vindobonense 2n = 4x = 32, T. trilobifolium 2n = 4x = 32, T. mendax 2n = 5x = 40, T. portentosum 2n =? and one type from the section Obliqua - T. platyglossum 2n =?. Pollen from all the examined species was observed by SEM microscopy. A distinct relation exists between the morphology of pollen and the way of reproduction. Pollen of triploidal species, being compulsory apomicts, is characterized by a great variability of the size and a high percentage of deformed pollen grains. Tetraploids, being optional apomicts, produce regular pollen with a relatively even size. The regular type of pollen in pentaploidal Taraxacum mendax and in species with an unknown number of chromosomes (Taraxacum portentosum and T. platyglossum) suggests that these taxa are optional apomicts.
Blooming of romanas rose (Rosa rugosa Thunb.) cultivated on ash dumps reclaimed with various techniques
Authors: Nowak Grzegorz , Zieliński Jarosław
Published: May 2013

This article presents the results of a study on the cultivation of romanas rose on ash, carried out between 2004 and 2006. The experiment involved two different substrata and five different fertile covers. The control group comprised of roses growing on native grounds and raw ash rock. The study measured the viability of the plants, number of flowers and fruit borne from these flowers. This study showed that the techniques of reclamation applied in this study significantly influenced the examined characteristics of romanas rose. Fertile covers increased the growth and blooming, however the most desirable results were obtained when the cover consisted mostly of mineral matter.
The influence of the plantation establishment method on the yield of marshmallow (Althaea officinalis L.) flowers
Authors: Andruszczak Sylwia
Published: May 2013

The field experiment with one- and two-year-old marshmallow plants was carried out in Zamość on brown soil of loess origin in 2002-2004. There were four methods of plantation establishment: 1) direct sowing in the field (control object); 2) direct sowing in the field with cover of polypropylene sheet; 3) by seedlings from a plastic house; 4) by seedlings produced in multi-cell propagation trays. It was found that, in the case of one-year-old plants, all the methods of plantation establishment significantly increased the yield and the number of marshmallow flowers, as compared to the control object, but the best results were obtained when the plants were propagated from seedlings produced in multi-cell trays. Taking into account the two-year-old plants, no significant impact of the plantation establishment method on flower yield was found. On average, total yields of flowers varied from 17.2 dt×ha-1 in the first year of vegetation to 27.8 dt×ha-1 in the case of the two-year-old plants.
Evaluation of growing and flowering of five species of ornamental grasses in the region of Lublin
Authors: Pudelska Krystyna
Published: May 2013

The great decorative diversity (shape and size of inflorescences, colouring and texture of leaves, varied intensity of growth) as well as big tolerance to habitat conditions, relatively small susceptibility to diseases and small sensitivity to 'ornamental grasses' pests favour their popularization in different gardens and urban areas. The examined species all may be recommended to plant in cooler east regions of Poland. Species which begin the earliest vegetation and flowering were Calamagrostis x acutiflora 'Karl Foerster' and Deschampsia caespitosa 'Goldtau'. These species, best planted separately or in small groups, can be also recommended in small garden compositions. For large areas, naturalistic gardens as well as structural plants of flowerbeds the best are Calamagrostis x acutiflora 'Karl Foerster', Deschampsia caespitosa 'Goldtau' and Miscanthus sacchariflorus 'Robusta'. Phalaris arundinacea L. is a typical ground covering grass with decorative leaves.
Influence of plasmogenes on the productivity of morphogenesis in strawberry (Fragaria x ananassa Duch.)
Authors: Żebrowska Jadwiga , Pacek Agata
Published: May 2013

Plasmogenes are largely located in mitochondria or plastids and they can influence the inheritance of many plant characteristics. This phenomenon is called cytoplasmic inheritance and can be detected on the basis of the expression of a trait in progeny F1 obtained from single and reciprocal crosses. The aim of this study was to examine the cytoplasmic inheritance of in vitro productivity of morphogenesis in three genotypes of Fragaria x ananassa Duch., i.e. the cultivars 'Dukat', 'Teresa' and the breeding clone no. 590. Single and reciprocal crosses were done according to Griffi ng's method 3. The value of general combining ability (GCA) indicated cv. 'Teresa' as the best maternal component for crossing and 'Dukat' as the worst. The negative reciprocal cross effects (rij) revealed the cytoplasmic inheritance for cv. 'Dukat' as maternal form and positive rij for the breeding clone no. 590 indicated the nuclear inheritance of morphogenetic ability. Cv. 'Teresa', as maternal component, showed nuclear inheritance of that trait in crossing with cv. 'Dukat' and with 590 cytoplasmic inheritance. The productivity of morphogenesis in strawberry depended on the parental combination and the direction of crossing.
Structure of Kalanchoë pumila Bak. leaves (Crassulaceae DC.)
Authors: Chernetskyy Mykhaylo , Weryszko-Chmielewska Elżbieta
Published: May 2013

The structure of Kalanchoё pumila Bak. was studied with the use of stereoscopic, light, scanning and transmission electron microscopy. It was found that the chlorenchymatic tissue was divided into subepidermal small-celled mesophyll and large-celled (water transporting, CAM type) mesophyll, placed in the central part of the leaf. The mesophyll structure and its cell ultrastructure indicate C3 photosynthesis in this taxon, whereas CAM photosynthesis, being an adaptive syndrome, is induced by external factors. Three groups of xeromorphic traits were observed in the structure of K. pumila leaves, related to: 1) storing water in the ground and epidermal tissues, 2) decreased transpiration (the closing of stomata during heat), 3) avoiding excess insolation of the mesophyll and overheating of the leaf (striated cuticula, anthocyan pigments, tannin storage). The last two groups of xeromorphic traits also include thickening of the outer walls of cuticular cells, a thick-layered cuticula, and the presence of epicuticular wax and calcium carbonate deposits. Microchannels which enhance transpiration efficiency in developing K. pumila leaves were found in the vicinity of anticlinal walls in the outer walls of epidermal cells. Calcium deposits produced on the leaf surfaces protect them in extreme conditions. Adaptive traits in the structure of K. pumila leaves are conservative and they confirm the relations between this taxon and the conditions in their native land.
Co-occurrence of airborne allergenic pollen grains and fungal spores in Rzeszów, Poland (2000-2002)
Authors: Kasprzyk Idalia
Published: May 2013

The co-occurrence of airborne allergenic pollen grains and fungal spores was estimated in Rzeszów in the years 2000-2002. The volumetric method was used in this aerobiological study. Six taxa of pollen grains and five types of fungal spores characterized by strong allergenicity and/or high concentrations in the air were analyzed. The time series of pollen grains and fungal spores were compared using PCA analysis. The periods of the greatest concentrations of tree pollen did not coincide with similar periods for herbaceous plants and fungal spores. From February to mid-March, Alnus pollen dominated in the air. The second period was characterized by Betula pollen. It occurred in April. Herbaceous pollen and fungal spores occurred in the air simultaneously (from mid May to the end of August), creating a risky situation for sensitized people. The periods of the highest concentrations of Epicoccum and Ganoderma fungal spores did not coincide with the same period for the examined plant taxa. In Rzeszów the probability of becoming exposed to very high concentrations of allergenic pollen and fungal spores at the same time was high, especially in July, when the highest concentrations of Poaceae, Alternaria and Cladosporium were noted. The hypersensitivity to only one plant or fungal allergen is rarely encountered. Under the present scenarios of global warming, pollen seasons of many taxa will be longer and sufferers will have year-long symptoms.
Some physiological changes in Waldsteinia trifolia (Roch.) leaves in different months of the year
Authors: Wojciechowska Renata , Kobyłko Tadeusz , Hostyńska Anna
Published: May 2013

The study concerned an evergreen herbal plant Waldsteinia trifolia Roch. This species can be found more and more often in garden plantings in Poland. The aim of the study was to estimate the content of photosynthetic pigments, anthocyanins and dry matter as well as the permeability of cytoplasmatic membranes of Waldsteinia leaves. Plants grew in an ornamental plant collection at the premises of the Faculty of Horticulture of the Agricultural University in Kraków. The study was conducted in 2006 and 2007 in the following months: March, May, June, September, October and November. The permeability of cytoplasmatic membranes was estimated based on electrolyte leakage from leaf discs at 20°C in relation to total electrolytes in the tissue after unfreezing. The first days with temperature drops down to around 0°C in autumn resulted in a decrease in chlorophyll a, b and carotenoid content, but significantly increased anthocyanin content. The ratio of chlorophyll a to b and the ratio of total chlorophylls to carotenoids did not change in particular months. In both years of study, similar changes in dry matter content of the Waldsteinia leaves were observed. Dry matter content significantly increased in June and November and decreased in May and October. In June and in autumn, after first slight frosts, an increase of electrolyte leakage from the leaf discs was observed. However, high dry matter content (40.3%) was accompanied by lower permeability of the cytoplasmatic membranes of the leaves after winter during March. These results have shown good adaptation of Waldsteinia trifolia plants to the climatic conditions in Poland.
The occurence of rare and protected plant species on the peat bog near Lake Bikcze (Łęczyńsko-Włodawskie Lakeland)
Authors: Pogorzelec Magdalena , Banach Barbara
Published: May 2013

This paper presents the results of a pilot field study, conducted in July 2007, designed to make floristic evaluation of the peat bog area adjacent to the western shore of Lake Bikcze (Łęczyńsko-Włodawskie Lakeland). The main aim of the study was to confirm the occurrence of populations of rare and legally protected plant species in this area and to identify, on a preliminary basis, habitat conditions in their stands. The occurrence of populations of the following strictly protected plant species: Betula humilis, Salix lapponum, Salix myrtilloides, Carex limosa, Drosera intermedia, Drosera rotundifolia, Dactylorhiza incarnata; and partially protected species: Menyanthes trifoliata, has been confirmed in the studied peat bog. Both an investigation of abiotic factors, conducted in situ, and an analysis of the species composition of the flora in terms of habitat preferences of particular groups of taxa have shown that the described rare plant species find suitable conditions for their growth and development in the studied peat bog.
The occurrence and pathogenicity of Phoma exigua Desm. var. exigua for selected species of herbs
Authors: Machowicz-Stefaniak Zofia , Zimowska Beata , Zalewska Ewa
Published: May 2013

P. exigua var. exigua was isolated from underground and aboveground organs of different herb plant species in the years 1998-2006. Pathogenicity tests of three randomly chosen isolates of the fungus T 299, T 261 and T 277 for thyme and of three isolates M 1657, M 1193 and M 1635 for lemon balm were carried out. The effect of water suspension of fungus spores on the germination ability of schizocarps and of infected soil on sprouting and seedling health was studied. The study of microscopic structures of the fungus developing on plants, isolation of the fungus on artificial media and macro- and microscopic analysis on standard media are essential for the correct identification of P. exigua var. exigua. The polyphagous nature of the fungus is confirmed by the obtained results. The tested isolates were found to be occasional pathogens of thyme and lemon balm in the studied conditions. The harmfulness of the tested isolates pointed to inhibition of schizocarp germination, sprouting of plants and the ability to cause necrosis of germs, roots and epicotyl.
The influence of plant mulches on the content of phenolic compounds in soil and primary weed infestation of maize
Authors: Stokłosa Agnieszka , Hura Tomasz , Stupnicka-Rodzynkiewicz Ewa , Dąbkowska Teresa , Lepiarczyk Andrzej
Published: May 2013

In growing maize, an increase in the content of phenolic compounds and selected phenolic acids in soil was found after the incorporation of white mustard, buckwheat, spring barley, oats and rye mulches into the soil. The highest content of phenolic compounds in soil was found after oats mulch incorporation (20% more than in the control soil). The highest content of selected phenolic acids was found for the soil with the oats and rye mulch. Among the phenolic acids investigated, ferulic acid was most commonly found in the soil with the plant mulches. However, two phenolic acids: the protocatechuic and chlorogenic acid, were not detected in any soil samples (neither in the control soil nor in the mulched soil). At the same time, a decrease in the primary weed infestation level in maize was found in the plots with all the applied plant mulches, especially on the plots with oats, barley and mustard. The plant mulches were more inhibitory against monocotyledonous weeds than dicotyledonous ones. During high precipitation events and wet weather, a rapid decrease in the content of phenolic compounds in soil and an increase in the primary weed infestation level in maize were observed.
The effect of tillage simplifications and mineral fertilisation level on the number and distribution of weed seeds in soil
Authors: Bujak Karol , Frant Mariusz , Budzyńska Bożenna
Published: May 2013

In the present paper, results of a study on the effect of a reduction in the number of ploughings in a crop rotation on the seed weed bank in the soil are presented. The study was carried out in the second and fourth year of a crop rotation (potato- spring wheat- pea- winter wheat). A reduction in the number of ploughings to three in the crop rotation decreased weed infestation of the plough layer, whereas when only one ploughing was made there was clearly more weed diaspores in the soil than after plough tillage. In the first period of the study, the mineral fertilisation level did not differentiate the weed seed bank in the soil, whereas after the end of the rotation its significant increase was noted as a result of more intensive fertilisation. In all the experimental treatments, diaspores of Chenopodium album, Viola arvensis, Galinsoga sp. and Apera spica-venti occurred in greatest numbers.
Plant communities and associations of root crops of the Kałuszyńska Upland
Authors: Skrajna Teresa , Skrzyczyńska Janina
Published: May 2013

A phytosociological classification and the characteristics of weed communities developing in root crops of the Kałuszyńska Upland are given in this paper. The presence of three associations: Digitarietum ischaemi, Echinochloo-Setarietum and Lamio-Veronicetum politae, as well as of two communities: Setaria pumila-Setaria viridis and Panico-Setarion alliance, has been found. The differentiation in trophic and soil moisture conditions of habitats results in the floristic diversity of communities, divided into lower phytosociological units. Two variants have been distinguished within the association Digitarietum ischaemi, whereas Echinochloo-Setarietum has been divided into 2 subassociations and 6 variants.
O processo de formação de professores de Biologia e a interferência das tecnologias e mídias no ensino de Genética e Biologia Molecular
Authors: Ribeiro Renato Antônio , Santos Rodrigo da Silva
Published: May 2013

A falta de esclarecimento ou superexposição das mídias acerca da Genética e Biologia Molecular podem prejudicar seu entendimento ou aceitação na sociedade. O texto discute a influência da mídia, dos professores ou de pré-conceitos equivocados na assimilação e/ou aceitação de temas relacionados à Genética e Biologia Molecular. Os alunos da modalidade Educação de Jovens e Adultos (EJA) carregam pré-conceitos ou conceitos errôneos, o que pode ser influenciado por sua bagagem cultural, pela religião que seguem ou por mau preparo dos educadores em abordar estes temas. Torna-se necessário rever as práticas educativas e a formação acadêmica dos educadores a fim de evitar a transmissão de informações erradas ou a permanência de pré-conceitos.
Hybrid Inductive Teaching Methods for a Course in CAN Systems: A Case Study
Authors: Young Jieh-Shian
Published: May 2013

This paper reports the results of a study in teaching courses for control area network (CAN) systems. The CAN systems course prepares students for their professional careers in vehicle networks, a topic which will become more crucial and compulsory in forthcoming decades. Furthermore, this paper investigates the underlying pedagogy of CAN systems. This study utilised inductive teaching and learning methods such as inquiry-based, problem-based and project-based learning. We developed an automotive electronic training board that may confront the students with authentic problems. We also synthesised a pattern CAN unit that assists students in distinguishing shortcomings or excellences in their hardware design. An evaluation of the hybrid approach using inductive methods indicates that there seemed to be a significant improvement for students, although the data were too insufficient to support this approach.
D.C. Motor-Generator Training Tool with Solar Recharge and Braking Energy Recovery
Authors: Maseda F. Javier , Martija Itziar , Martija Irene
Published: May 2013

The training tool presented here is integrated into a set of electric machine and power electronic training tools (EM&PETT) at the Basque Country University and consists of a motor-generator group with two twin 30 W permanent magnet d.c. motors, three batteries and an array of three solar panels. Speed and torque control methods for d.c. machines, tracking of maximum power point algorithms for photovoltaic systems and control of energy recovery of the d.c. generator when it works as an active mechanical load are experimental procedures within the scope of the EM&PETT. The fundamental idea behind this training tool is to introduce engineering students to the concepts of electric propulsion control through electronic power converters, with energy efficiency criteria and solar energy generation. Finally, both the operation and adjustment of the system and the display of the variables that are included in the EM&PETT can be done locally or remotely by several users.
Health Coaching Interventions with a Heart-Healthy Lenoir Project Client
Authors: Tillman Jim
Published: May 2013

The Heart-Healthy Lenoir Project is a multi-study project designed to reduce the risk burden of heart disease in Lenoir County, North Carolina. This case report examines one client's experience in this project and the impact of health coaching interventions that were used. The client presented with unhealthy lifestyle behaviors and a systolic blood pressure (BP) of more than 200 mmHg. After 1 year of educational group meetings and personalized health coaching, the client was able to reduce her BP to an acceptable range and has adopted many new lifestyle behaviors. This case report demonstrates one way health coaching is being integrated into educational programs and in collaboration with primary care practices.
Case Report of Hemoglobin A1c and Weight Reduction in Integrative Health Coaching
Authors: Moore Cynthia
Published: May 2013

Integrative health coaching (IHC) offers significant health improvement in biometric measures without pharmaceuticals. In this case of newly diagnosed impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) with obesity, IHC used the patient's strengths to reverse IGT, prevent frank diabetes, and reduce weight by 40 lbs or 21% of her original weight. This intervention included a client self-assessment and 14 in-person health coaching sessions over 11 months. IHC provides a framework to accomplish short-term goals and identify and overcome barriers while drawing on the strengths and aims of the individual.
The Process of Patient Empowerment in Integrative Health Coaching: How does it Happen?
Authors: Caldwell Karen L. , Gray Jennifer , Wolever Ruth Q.
Published: May 2013

Emerging healthcare delivery models suggest that patients benefit from being engaged in their care. Integrative health coaching (IHC) is designed to be a systematic, collaborative, and solution-focused process that facilitates the enhancement of life experience and goal attainment regarding health, but little research is available to describe the mechanisms through which empowerment occurs in the health coaching process. The purpose of this qualitative study is to describe apparent key components of the empowerment process as it actually occurs in IHC. A sample of 69 recorded health coaching sessions was drawn from 12 participants enrolled in a randomized controlled study comparing two different methods of weight-loss maintenance. Two researchers coded the word-for-word transcripts of sessions focusing on the structure of the sessions and communication strategies used by the coaches. Three basic sections of a coaching session were identified, and two main themes emerged from the communication strategies used: Exploring Participant's Experience and Active Interventions. In IHC, health coaches do not direct with prefabricated education based on the patient's presenting problem; rather, they use a concordant style of communication. The major tenets of the health coaching process are patient-centeredness and patient control focused around patient-originated health goals that guide the work within a supportive coaching partnership. As the field of health coaching continues to define itself, an important ongoing question involves how the structure of the provider-patient interaction is informed by the role of the healthcare provider (eg, nurse, therapist, coach) and in turn shapes the empowerment process.
The Study of Health Coaching: The Ithaca Coaching Project, Research Design, and Future Directions
Authors: Sforzo Gary A.
Published: May 2013

Health coaching (HC) is a process holding tremendous potential as a complementary medical intervention to shape healthy behavior change and affect rates of chronic lifestyle diseases. Empirical knowledge of effectiveness for the HC process, however, is lacking. The purposes of this paper are to present the study protocol for the Ithaca Coaching Project while also addressing research design, methodological issues, and directions for HC research. This is one of the first large-scale, randomized control trials of HC for primary prevention examining impact on physical and emotional health status in an employee population. An additional intent for the project is to investigate self-determination theory as a theoretical framework for the coaching process. Participants (n=300) are recruited as part of a campus-wide wellness initiative and randomly assigned to one of three levels of client-centered HC or a control with standard wellness program care. Repeated measures analyses of covariance will be used to examine coaching effectiveness while path analyses will be used to examine relationships between coaching processes, self-determination variables, and health outcomes. There is a great need for well-designed HC studies that define coaching best practices, examine intervention effectiveness, provide cost:benefit analysis, and address scope of practice. This information will allow a clearer definition of HC to emerge and determination of if, and how, HC fits in modern-day healthcare. This is an exciting but critical time for HC research and for the practice of HC.
Airway Sonography in Live Models and Cadavers
Authors: Tsui Ban , Ip Vivian , Walji Anil
Published: May 2013

Sonography using cadavers is beneficial in teaching and learning sonoanatomy, which is particularly important because imaging of the airway can be challenging due to the cartilaginous landmarks and air artifacts. In this exploratory study, we have attempted to compare the airway sonoanatomy of cadavers and live models. Our observations support the use of cadavers as teaching tools for learning airway sonoanatomy and practicing procedures involving airway structures, such as superior laryngeal nerve blocks, transtracheal injections, and needle cricothyroidotomy, before performance on patients in clinical situations. We believe this process will improve patient safety and enhance the competency of trainees and practitioners in rare procedures such as needle cricothyroidotomy.
Sonographic Evaluation of Snapping Hip Syndrome
Authors: Bureau Nathalie J.
Published: May 2013

The Sound Judgment Series consists of invited articles highlighting the clinical value of using ultrasound first in specific clinical diagnoses where ultrasound has shown comparative or superior value. The series is meant to serve as an educational tool for medical and sonography students and clinical practitioners and may help integrate ultrasound into clinical practice.
E‐readers, Computer Screens, or Paper: Does Reading Comprehension Change Across Media Platforms?
Authors: Margolin Sara J. , Driscoll Casey , Toland Michael J. , Kegler Jennifer Little
Published: May 2013

The present research examined the impact of technology on reading comprehension. While previous research has examined memory for text, and yielded mixed results of the impact technology has on one's ability to remember what they have read, the reading literature has not yet examined comprehension. In comparing paper, computers, and e‐readers, results from this study indicated that these three different presentation modes do not differentially affect comprehension of narrative or expository text. Additionally, readers were not consistently compensating for difficulties with comprehension by engaging in different reading behaviors when presented with text in different formats. These results suggest that reading can happen effectively in a variety of presentation formats. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Global adaptive output stabilization of uncertain nonlinear systems with polynomial output depending growth rate
Authors: Benabdallah Abdallah , Ayadi Habib , Mabrouk Mohamed
Published: May 2013

This paper investigates the problem of global output stabilization for a family of uncertain nonlinear systems, which are dominated by a triangular‐type condition. The distinguishing feature of such a class of systems is the presence of unmeasured states growth with growth rate polynomial of output‐input multiplying an unknown constant. We show by an example that the power of the input in the growth rate seems to be optimal.Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Noncompaction in the fetus and neonate: An autopsy study
Authors: Ursell Philip C.
Published: May 2013

Noncompaction refers to an uncommon structural abnormality of the heart's ventricular myocardium characterized by an abnormally thick layer of left ventricular trabeculations, as well as hypoplastic papillary muscles. The condition is associated with a variable clinical phenotype including heart failure, thromboembolism, and sudden death. In this retrospective study of fetal and neonatal autopsy hearts with noncompaction, clinical profiles were correlated with gross and histologic findings and compared with a set of age‐matched controls. Pathologic criteria for noncompaction included hypoplastic left ventricular papillary muscles, abnormal trabecular architecture and greater than 50% penetration of the left ventricular wall thickness by intertrabecular recesses. Among eight fetuses and full‐term neonates with pathologic features of noncompaction, all had evidence of severe heart failure, including four with complete heart block and two others with bradycardia. None experienced sudden death. Seven of eight hearts had associated heart malformations—four with left atrial isomerism, two with aortic and/or pulmonary valve dysplasia consistent with stenosis and, one with atrial septal defect. One heart with noncompaction had no associated malformations. With characteristic excessive trabeculation in the left ventricle, noncompaction also included biventricular endocardial fibroelastosis that denoted right ventricular involvement in all hearts. Thus, (1) among autopsied fetuses and neonates with noncompaction, heart failure including heart block is a common cause of death, (2) noncompaction is often associated with various cardiovascular malformations, but even in isolation it can be the basis for severe cardiac failure, and (3) biventricular endocardial fibroelastosis in noncompaction suggests a global pathologic process. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Asymmetric Carbon–Carbon Bond Formation under Continuous‐Flow Conditions with Chiral Heterogeneous Catalysts
Authors: Tsubogo Tetsu , Ishiwata Takanori , Kobayashi Shū
Published: May 2013

Catalytic asymmetric carbon–carbon bond‐forming reactions provide one of the most efficient ways to synthesize optically active compounds, and, accordingly, many chiral catalysts for these reactions have been developed in the past two decades. However, the efficiency of the catalysts in terms of turnover number (TON) is often lower than that of some other reactions, such as asymmetric hydrogenation, and this has been one of the obstacles for industrial applications. Although there are some difficulties in increasing the efficiency, the issues might be solved by using continuous flow in the presence of chiral heterogeneous catalysts. Indeed, continuous‐flow systems have several advantages over conventional batch systems. Here we summarize the recent progress in asymmetric CC bond‐forming reactions under continuous‐flow conditions with chiral heterogeneous catalysts.
Stability of a Damped Hyperbolic Timoshenko System Coupled with a Heat Equation
Authors: Yang Li‐Juan , Wang Jun‐Min
Published: May 2013

We consider a one‐dimensional damped hyperbolic Timoshenko beam that is coupled with a heat equation. When its wave speeds are different, it is known that the Timoshenko beam that is coupled with a heat equation, under Cattaneo's law, does not have exponential stability. With two internal dampings being introduced, in this paper, we show that the system under Cattaneo's law is exponentially stable. We also show the exponential stability when the system is considered under Fourier's law.
Adaptive Stabilization for a Class of Stochastic Nonlinear Systems with Prandtl‐Ishlinskii Hysteresis
Authors: Ma Yike , Ji Haibo , Liu Wei
Published: May 2013

This paper deals with a class of stochastic nonlinear systems with unknown hysteresis. A stochastic Lyapunov method is applied for systems in strict‐feedback form driven by unknown Prandtl‐Ishlinskii hysteresis and Wiener noises of unknown covariance. An adaptive controller is obtained which guarantees the global asymptotic stabilization in probability. Simulation results are provided to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach.
Recombinant l‐phenylalanine ammonia lyase from Rhodosporidium toruloides as a potential anticancer agent
Authors: Babich Olga O. , Pokrovsky Vadim S. , Anisimova Natalia Yu. , Sokolov Nikolai N. , Prosekov Alexander Yu.
Published: May 2013

The recombinant producer strain expressing Rhodosporidium toruloides l‐phenylalanine ammonia lyase (PAL) has been obtained, and a purification procedure of PAL has been developed. The purified enzyme, PAL, has the following biochemical and catalytic characteristics: Km for l‐Phe of 0.49 mM, pH optimum at 8.5, and temperature optimum at 50°C. PAL exhibited a significant cytotoxic effect toward the following cell lines: MCF7 (IC50 = 1.97 U/mL), DU145 (IC50 = 7.3 U/mL), which are comparable with E. coli l‐asparaginase type‐II cytotoxicity in vitro. Administration of PAL (200–400 U/kg) to L5178y‐bearing mice for five times (a total dose of 1000–2000 U/kg) was well tolerated and showed the increase of life span (ILS) = 12–16%, P < 0.05. Data obtained suggest that PAL from R. toruloides has a potential for cancer treatment.
ESTABLISHING DERIVED TEXTUAL ACTIVITY SCHEDULES IN CHILDREN WITH AUTISM
Authors: Sprinkle Evelyn C. , Miguel Caio F.
Published: May 2013

Children with autism are frequently taught to follow picture activity schedules to increase independence in task engagement and transitions. As textual behavior allows for greater independence and efficiency in responding, schedules should rapidly become textual in form. Previous research has shown the effectiveness of conditional discrimination training and superimposition and fading procedures in establishing textual control. The current study evaluated the effectiveness of these procedures in establishing derived textual control in activity schedules. Participants included two children with autism (ages 3 and 8 years). Following the demonstration of proficiency in picture activity schedules, participants were exposed to superimposition and fading and conditional discrimination training in an alternating treatments design. Pretest–posttest measures were used to evaluate emergent relations among stimuli. Conditional discrimination training was superior to stimulus fading for emergent relations. The participants showed no clear difference between the procedures related to derived textual control. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Anatomy of the inferior petro‐occipital vein and its relation to the base of the skull: Application to surgical and endovascular procedures of the skull base
Authors: Shane Tubbs R. , Watanabe Koichi , Loukas Marios , Cohen‐Gadol Aaron A.
Published: May 2013

Although the inferior petro‐occipital vein has been recently used for vascular access to the cavernous sinus, few detailed descriptions of its anatomy are in the literature. We aimed to investigate the morphology and relationships of this vessel. Twelve latex‐injected cadaveric heads (24 sides) were dissected to identify the inferior petro‐occipital vein and anatomic details documented. The petro‐occipital vein was identified on 83.3% of sides. Generally this vein united the internal carotid venous plexus to the superior jugular bulb. However, on 10% of sides, the anterior part of this vein communicated directly with the cavernous sinus, and on 15%, the posterior vein drained into the inferior petrosal sinus at its termination into the superior jugular bulb. The petro‐occipital vein was separated from the overlying inferior petrosal sinus by a thin plate of bone. On 40% of sides, small venous connections were found between these two venous structures. The vein was usually larger if a nondominant transverse sinus was present. The overlying inferior petrosal sinus was smaller in diameter when an underlying inferior petro‐occipital vein was present. On 20% of sides, the posterior aspect of the vein communicated with the hypoglossal canal veins. On three sides, diploic veins from the clivus drained into the inferior petro‐occipital vein. The inferior petro‐occipital vein is present in most humans. This primarily extracranial vessel communicates with intracranial venous sinuses and should be considered an emissary vein. Knowledge of this vessel's exact anatomy may be useful to cranial base surgeons and endovascular specialists. Clin. Anat. 27:698–701, 2014. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Ulnar nerve innervation of the medial head of the triceps brachii muscle: A cadaveric study
Authors: Loukas Marios , Bellary Sharath S. , Yüzbaşioğlu Neslihan , Shoja Mohammadali M. , Tubbs R. Shane , Spinner Robert J.
Published: May 2013

Although the ulnar nerve is closely associated with the triceps brachii muscle, the literature does not normally describe it as supplying this muscle. However, recent research has examined the ulnar nerve in the upper arm and identified branches supplying the medial head of the triceps brachii muscle. This study aims to expand upon this research by describing the course and incidence of these branches in a larger sample size. We examined 50 specimens in 25 cadavers. Ulnar innervation of the medial head of the triceps brachii was identified in 14 specimens (28%). The mean distance of the ulnar nerve branch midpoint was 26% along a line between the surgical neck and an epicondyle line, with a range of 11–39%. Innervation of the triceps brachii muscle by the ulnar nerve has important clinical and surgical implications. Clin. Anat. 26:1028–1030, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.