bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Leveraging Geospatially-Oriented Social Media Communications in Disaster Response
Authors: McClendon Susan , Robinson Anthony C.
Published: May 2013

Geospatially-oriented social media communications have emerged as a common information resource to support crisis management. The research presented compares the capabilities of two popular systems used to collect and visualize such information - Project Epic’s Tweak the Tweet (TtT) and Ushahidi. The research uses geospatially-oriented social media gathered by both projects during recent disasters to compare and contrast the frequency, content, and location components of contributed information to both systems. The authors compare how data was gathered and filtered, how spatial information was extracted and mapped, and the mechanisms by which the resulting synthesized information was shared with response and recovery organizations. In addition, the authors categorize the degree to which each platform in each disaster led to actions by first responders and emergency managers. Based on the results of the comparisons the authors identify key design considerations for future social media mapping tools to support crisis management.
A Generic Approach for the Semantic Annotation of Conceptual Models Using a Service-Oriented Architecture
Authors: Fill Hans-Georg , Schremser Daniela , Karagiannis Dimitris
Published: May 2013

In this paper a generic service oriented architecture for the semantic annotation of conceptual models is described. It allows to annotate elements of conceptual models with concepts from formal semantic schemata. Thereby, additional semantic functionalities for models can be realized. Due to the integration of aspects of service orientation, the platform can be easily extended to support different modeling and semantic schema languages. Furthermore, it can act as an integration platform for other tools working on models and ontologies.
Towards a Socially Responsible Research (SRR) Charter in Engineering Sciences at CNRS level
Authors: André Jean Claude Georges
Published: May 2013

Science, by the knowledge it acquires through research, allows the ever faster development of technical progress. To achieve this, researchers like those responsible for work scheduling rely on bases de reductionism which for a long time has made science successful. Meanwhile, complexity and interdependence are likely to be at the origin of risks not perceived by society, and even less by those at their origin. The object of this essay is to show that it is urgent for scientists involved in the research in engineering sciences to be concerned about the future of the artefacts they create or allow to be created. To “humbly” achieve this objective, the principle of “Socially Responsible Research” (SRR) is proposed.
Acute Steatohepatitis, Due to Extreme Metabolic Dysregulation, as the First Presentation of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: Kranidiotis Georgios , Angelidi Angeliki , Sevdalis Emmanouel , Telios Thomas-Nikolaos , Gougoutsi Alexandra , Melidonis Andreas
Published: May 2013

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a slowly progressive chronic disease, with a high prevalence among obese, dyslipidemic or diabetic people, commonly presented as an asymptomatic mild elevation of serum aminotransferases. We report a patient who experienced an acute form of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis, as the first manifestation of NAFLD, due to exacerbation of pre-existing metabolic disorders by an extremely unhealthy lifestyle. A 50-year old, obese, diabetic man presented with a one-week history of jaundice and malaise. Analysis revealed elevated liver enzymes, bilirubin, lipids, and glucose. Based on patient’s history, physical examination, laboratory results, and imaging findings, acute non-alcoholic steatohepatitis was established as a diagnosis of exclusion. The patient was started on a low-calorie diet free of carbohydrates and fats, in combination with insulin. A dramatic improvement of clinical and laboratory parameters was observed. In the context of extreme metabolic dysregulation, induced by unhealthy diet, NAFLD may present as an acute steatohepatitis.
Leiomyosarcoma of the Inferior Vena Cava
Authors: Sadri Ben Abid , Amine Attaoui Mohamed , Zeineb Mzoughi , Nizar Miloudi , Lassad Gharbi , Khalfallah Mohamed Tahar
Published: May 2013

Vascular leiomyosarcoma (LMS) are unique. The inferior vena cava (IVC) is the most affected organ (about 38% cases). We report the observation of a 50-year old woman who consulted for right upper quadrant pain. Imaging studies revealed a retroperitoneal mass that mimic a LMS of the IVC. The patient was operated. A resection of the IVC along with the tumor was performed without reconstruction. The management of LMS is surgical and depends upon the location and tumor characteristics.
Differences in Soccer Players' Dynamic Balance Across Levels of Competition
Authors: Butler Robert J. , Southers Corey , Gorman Paul P. , Kiesel Kyle B. , Plisky Phillip J.
Published: May 2013

Context

Balance ability has been associated with performance and injury prevention in athletes. Few published reports have investigated the differences in dynamic balance abilities among male high school, collegiate, and professional soccer players.

Objective

To examine the differences on the Lower Quarter Y-Balance Test in male high school, collegiate, and professional soccer players.

Design

Descriptive laboratory study.

Setting

Field testing.

Patients or Other Participants

Dynamic balance data were collected for male high school (HS; n = 38), collegiate (n = 37), and professional (n = 44) soccer players during preparticipation physical examinations using the Lower Quarter Y Balance Test standardized protocol.

Main Outcome Measure(s)

For the Lower Quarter Y Balance Test, the participant reaches with 1 foot in the anterior, posteromedial, and posterolateral directions while standing on a centralized stance platform with the other foot. The test is performed for both left and right limbs. Differences in reach distances between competition levels were analyzed using a 1-way analysis of variance with significance set at P < .05. The HS group had a greater anterior reach distance than the other 2 groups. In contrast, the HS group had less reach distance in the posteromedial and posterolateral directions than the other groups. Also, HS players tended to exhibit a lower composite reach score than the other groups, but this difference was not significant (P = .08). No differences were observed among groups for bilateral symmetry in any of the reach directions.

Conclusions

Dynamic balance performance varied with competition level. This may indicate that athletes' movement strategies may be different depending on the competition level and that normative values may need to be established for each competition level.
Kinesio Taping and the Circulation and Endurance Ratio of the Gastrocnemius Muscle
Authors: Stedge Hannah L. , Kroskie Ryan M. , Docherty Carrie L.
Published: May 2013

Context

Kinesio Tex tape is a therapeutic tape that is applied with the Kinesio-taping (KT) method and is theorized to increase circulation and subsequently improve muscle function. However, little research has been conducted to determine how KT affects performance.

Objective

To determine the effect of KT on muscular endurance ratio, blood flow, circumference, and volume of the gastrocnemius muscle.

Design

Randomized controlled clinical trial.

Setting

Research laboratory.

Patients or Other Participants

Sixty-one healthy, active people (23 men, 38 women; age = 19.99 ± 8.01 years, height = 169.42 ± 23.62 cm, mass = 71.53 ± 36.77 kg) volunteered to participate. They were assigned randomly to 1 of 3 groups: treatment KT, sham KT, and control.

Intervention(s)

Tape was applied based on group assignment. The treatment KT group received the ankle-tape technique as described in the KT manual. The sham KT group received 1 strip of Kinesio Tex tape around the circumference of the proximal gastrocnemius muscle. The control group did not receive tape application.

Main Outcome Measure(s)

The dependent variables were blood flow in blood perfusion units, volume of water displacement in milliliters, circumference of the gastrocnemius muscle in centimeters, and endurance ratio in joules measured before, 24 hours after, and 72 hours after the intervention. Separate repeated-measures analyses of variance were conducted for each dependent variable.

Results

We found no group-by-test day interaction for endurance ratios (F4,116 = 1.99, P = .10). Blood flow, circumference, and volume measurements also yielded no differences among groups (F2,58 range, 0.02–0.51; P > .05) or test days (F2,116 range, 0.05–2.33; P > .05).

Conclusions

We found KT does not enhance anaerobic muscle function measured by endurance ratio. The KT also did not affect circulation or volume of the gastrocnemius muscle in a healthy population.
Strength and Jump Biomechanics of Elite and Recreational Female Youth Soccer Players
Authors: Chrisman Sara P. , O'Kane John W. , Polissar Nayak L. , Tencer Allan F. , Mack Christopher D. , Levy Marni R. , Schiff Melissa A.
Published: May 2013

Context

Most researchers investigating soccer injuries have studied elite athletes because they have greater athletic-exposure hours than other athletes, but most youth participate at the recreational level. If risk factors for injury vary by soccer level, then recommendations generated using research with elite youth soccer players might not generalize to recreational players.

Objective

To examine injury risk factors of strength and jump biomechanics by soccer level in female youth athletes and to determine whether research recommendations based on elite youth athletes could be generalized to recreational players.

Design

Cross-sectional study.

Setting

Seattle Youth Soccer Association.

Patients or Other Participants

Female soccer players (N = 92) aged 11 to 14 years were recruited from 4 randomly selected elite (n = 50; age = 12.5 years, 95% confidence interval [95% CI]) = 12.3, 12.8 years; height = 157.8 cm, 95% CI = 155.2, 160.3 cm; mass = 49.9 kg, 95% CI = 47.3, 52.6 kg) and 4 randomly selected recreational (n = 42; age = 13.2 years, 95% CI = 13.0, 13.5 years; height = 161.1 cm, 95% CI = 159.2, 163.1 cm; mass = 50.6 kg, 95% CI = 48.3, 53.0 kg) soccer teams.

Main Outcome Measure(s)

Players completed a questionnaire about demographics, history of previous injury, and soccer experience. Physical therapists used dynamometry to measure hip strength (abduction, adduction, extension, flexion) and knee strength (flexion, extension) and Sportsmetrics to measure vertical jump height and jump biomechanics. We compared all measurements by soccer level using linear regression to adjust for age and mass.

Results

Elite players were similar to recreational players in all measures of hip and knee strength, vertical jump height, and normalized knee separation (a valgus estimate generated using Sportsmetrics).

Conclusions

Female elite youth players and recreational players had similar lower extremity strength and jump biomechanics. This suggests that recommendations generated from research with elite youth soccer players could be generalized to recreational players.
Chronic Ankle Instability and Corticomotor Excitability of the Fibularis Longus Muscle
Authors: Pietrosimone Brian G. , Gribble Phillip A.
Published: May 2013

Context

Neuromuscular deficits are common in people with chronic ankle instability (CAI). Corticomotor pathways are very influential in the production of voluntary muscle function, yet these pathways have not been evaluated in people with CAI.

Objective

To determine if corticomotor excitability of the fibularis longus (FL) differs between individuals with unilateral CAI and matched control participants without CAI.

Design

Case-control study.

Setting

Laboratory.

Patients or Other Participants

Ten people with CAI (4 men, 6 women; age = 21.2 ± 1.23 years, height = 175.13 ± 9.7 cm, mass = 77.1 ± 13.58 kg) and 10 people without CAI (4 men, 6 women; age = 21.2 ± 2.3 years; height = 172.34 ± 8.86 cm, mass = 73.4 ± 7.15 kg) volunteered for this study.

Main Outcome Measure(s)

Transcranial magnetic stimulation was performed over the motor cortex on neurons corresponding with the FL. All testing was performed with the participant in a seated position with a slightly flexed knee joint and the ankle secured in 10° of plantar flexion. The resting motor threshold (RMT), which was expressed as a percentage of 2 T, was considered the lowest amount of magnetic energy that would induce an FL motor evoked potential equal to or greater than 20 μV, as measured with surface electromyography, on 7 consecutive stimuli. In addition, the Functional Ankle Disability Index (FADI) and FADI Sport were used to assess self-reported function.

Results

Higher RMTs were found in the injured and uninjured FL of the CAI group (60.8% ± 8.4% and 59.1% ± 8.99%, respectively) than the healthy group (52.8% ± 8.56% and 52% ± 7.0%, respectively; F1,18 = 4.92, P = .04). No leg × group interactions (F1,18 = 0.1, P = .76) or between-legs differences (F1,18 = 0.74, P = .40) were found. A moderate negative correlation was found between RMT and FADI (r = −0.4, P = .04) and FADI Sport (r = −0.44, P = .03), suggesting that higher RMT is related to lower self-reported function.

Conclusions

Higher bilateral RMTs may indicate deficits in FL corticomotor excitability in people with CAI. In addition, a moderate correlation between RMT and FADI suggests that cortical excitability deficits may be influential in altering function.
Five-Day Whole-Body Cryostimulation, Blood Inflammatory Markers, and Performance in High-Ranking Professional Tennis Players
Authors: Ziemann Ewa , Olek Robert Antoni , Kujach Sylwester , Grzywacz Tomasz , Antosiewicz Jędrzej , Garsztka Tomasz , Laskowski Radosław
Published: May 2013

Context

Tournament season can provoke overreaching syndrome in professional tennis players, which may lead to deteriorated performance. Thus, appropriate recovery methods are crucial for athletes in order to sustain high-level performance and avoid injuries. We hypothesized that whole-body cryostimulation could be applied to support the recovery process.

Objective

To assess the effects of 5 days of whole-body cryostimulation combined with moderate-intensity training on immunologic, hormonal, and hematologic responses; resting metabolic rate; and tennis performance in a posttournament season.

Design

Controlled laboratory study.

Setting

National Olympic Sport Centre.

Patients or Other Participants

Twelve high-ranking professional tennis players.

Intervention(s)

Participants followed a moderate-intensity training program. A subgroup was treated with the 5-day whole-body cryostimulation (−120°C) applied twice a day. The control subgroup participated in the training only.

Main Outcome Measure(s)

Pretreatment and posttreatment blood samples were collected and analyzed for tumor necrosis factor α, interleukin 6, testosterone, cortisol, and creatine kinase. Resting metabolic rate and performance of a tennis drill were also assessed.

Results

Proinflammatory cytokine (tumor necrosis factor α) decreased and pleiotropic cytokine (interleukin 6) and cortisol increased in the group exposed to cryostimulation. In the same group, greater stroke effectiveness during the tennis drill and faster recovery were observed. Neither the training program nor cryostimulation affected resting metabolic rate.

Conclusions

Professional tennis players experienced an intensified inflammatory response after the completed tournament season, which may lead to overreaching. Applying whole-body cryostimulation in conjunction with moderate-intensity training was more effective for the recovery process than the training itself. The 5-day exposure to cryostimulation twice a day ameliorated the cytokine profile, resulting in a decrease in tumor necrosis factor α and an increase in interleukin 6.
Carriage rate and serotypes of Streptococcus pneumoniae amongst children in Thika Hospital, Kenya
Authors: Githii Susan , Revathi Gunturu , Muigai Anne , Kariuki Samuel
Published: May 2013

Streptococcus pneumoniae is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Rates of carriage are highest in infants and the elderly. The objectives of this study were to determine the rate of nasopharyngeal colonization by S. pneumoniae, and to describe the antibiotic resistant patterns and the serotypes of the carried isolates. A cross-sectional study design was used. Nasopharyngeal swabs were collected from 315 children in the months of Octoberand November 2010 and processed to isolate S. pneumoniae. The isolates were serotyped by the Quellung reaction and their antibiotic susceptibilities assessed by the disc diffusion method. The overall nasopharyngeal carriage rate for S. pneumoniae was 17%. Seventeen serotypes were detected amongst 55 strains analysed: 6A, 23F, 19F, 13, 6B, 14A, 20, 7C, 1,15B, 35B, 19A, 11A, 34, 5, 3 and 23A. Susceptibility testing revealed that nearly all (98%) were resistant to cotrimoxazole, 9% were resistant to penicillin and 7% to cefotaxime. Resistance to chloramphenicol and erythromycin was 2% and 4%, respectively. All isolates were fully sensitive to tetracycline. High levels of cotrimoxazole resistance and some resistance to other antimicrobial agents commonly used in Thika District Hospital shows that there is need to revise antimicrobial policy in this region in the treatment of invasive pneumococcal infections. The frequent serotypes found in this study have previously been associated with pneumococcal infectionsin children. Several of these serotypes are included in the ten-valent vaccine and therefore useof this vaccine will help reduce pneumococcal infections in Thika.
Periodontal disease and overall health: An update
Authors: Balakesavan Prashanth , Gokhale Sneha R. , Deshmukh Vijay , Williams Ray C.
Published: May 2013

Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease caused by a mixed microbial infection. The disease is a result of a complex interaction between the bacteria and the susceptible host. The host reaction to the microbial flora leads to a release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and a low grade inflammatory response that has an effect on the overall health status of the patient. Periodontitis has been associated with several systemic conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, adverse pregnancy outcomes and respiratory infections. In recent years, the relationship of periodontitis to overall health has been explored by numerous researchers who have expanded our understanding of periodontal disease as it affects the overall health of human subjects. This article further examines the relationship of periodontitis to overall health and throws a light on recent associations.
Evaluation of microflora of root carious lesions in different age groups: A microbiological study
Authors: Aparna Ashok , Hegde Mithra N. , Shetty Veena
Published: May 2013

Aim: To evaluate the prevalence of mutans streptococci, lactobacilli and Actinomyces species in root carious lesions in middle-aged and older adults of South Indian population and to comparatively evaluate the microbial count in two different age groups. Materials and Methods: Specimens of root carious lesions were collected from 60 adults for bacteriological studies. Amongst which 28 subjects belonged to middle age group (35-44 years) and 32 subjects to older age group (55-75 years). Standard procedures of culture, isolation and identification of aerobic and anaerobic bacteria were adopted in the study. Results: The analysis of results was performed using Chi-square test. SPSS 20 has been used to analyze the data. Among the isolated microorganisms, streptococci (56.7%) and lactobacilli (28.3%) were more prevalent in root caries lesions compared to actinomyces species (15.0%) and most frequently occurred in older adults. There is also a statistically significant association between the age group and the presence of lactobacillus (P=0.024). Conclusions: Aerobic Gram-positive cocci (Streptococcus mutans, lactobacillus) as well as anaerobic bacteria (Actinomyces spp.), occurred most frequently in root carious lesions in older adults as compared to middle-aged population.
Effect of maternal periodontal status on birth weight
Authors: Umoh Agnes O. , Ojehanon Patrick I. , Savage Kofo O.
Published: May 2013

Aim: The study was to determine the effect of maternal periodontal status on birth weight. Materials and Methods: This longitudinal study was conducted at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Benin City, Edo State. Recruited into the study were 300 pregnant women aged between 20 and 34 years who were randomly placed into two groups. Test group received oral prophylaxis upon enrolment and control group received prophylaxis after deliveries. The gestational age for enrolment was from 12 weeks to 36 weeks. The groups were balanced for other risk factors, while smoking and alcohol was assessed using the questionnaire. The participants were all primigravid women. Data were collected by means of interviewer-administered questionnaire, clinical dental examination and participants′ hospital records. Results: Community Periodontal Index (CPI) assessment revealed that 44.4% recorded code 2; 22% had code 3; while 16.6% had code 4. The overall prevalence of low birth and normal weight in this study were 6.3% and 93.8% respectively. The prevalence of low birth weight (LBW) among the test and control group were 0.0% and 12.5% respectively. The highest prevalence of low birth weight delivery (27.3%) among the control group was among the participants with CPI score 4 which was statistically significant (P<0.05). Conclusion: The study revealed that the control group had low birth weight deliveries, which was significantly associated with poor periodontal status. Therefore, there is the need for oral prophylaxis among pregnant women preferably before second trimester.
Evaluation of stress distribution of fixed partial dentures over straight and inclined implants in various macrodesigns by the photoelastic stress analysis method
Authors: Ozkir Serhat Emre , Terzioglu Hakan , Culhaoglu Ahmet Kursad
Published: May 2013

Aims: Tooth loss results in many problems, such as functional and esthetic problems, which may also have psychological implications. Dental implants are revolutionary improvements in functional and esthetic rehabilitation. Biomechanics is the one of the main factors for achieving the long-term success of implant-supported prostheses. It is important to distinguish the effects of macrodesign differences over stress distribution. Materials and Methods: In this study, the photoelastic response of four different types of implants that were inserted with different angulations and restored with 3-unit fixed bridges were comparatively analyzed. The implant types investigated were screw cylinder (ITI, Straumann AG, Basel, Switzerland), stepped cylinder (Frialit2, Friadent GmbH, Manheim, Germany), root form (Camlog Rootline, Alatatec, Wilshelm, Germany) and cylindrical implant with microthreads on implant neck (Astra, AstraTech, Mölndal, Sweden). In the test models, one of the implants was inserted straight while the other one was aligned mesially with 15° angles. Superstructures were prepared as 3-unit fixed partial denture FPD restorations. A 150 N loading was applied to the restorations throughout the test. Observations showed that misaligned implants caused less stresses than the straight implants, but the stress concentrations were not homogenous. Results: The comparison of implant designs showed that there were no significant differences between straight implants; however, between inclined implants, the most favorable stress distribution was seen with the stepped cylinder implants. The least favorable stress concentration was observed around the root-formed implants. Microthreads around the implant neck appeared to be effective in homogenous stress distribution. Observations showed that misaligned implants caused less stresses than the straight implants but the stress concentrations were not homogenous. Conclusion: While loading on a single implant, the remaining implant was not very effective at stress distribution. Cylinder type implants were better at stress distribution then the tapered implants while stress concentrations were lower around the inclined implants than the straight implants.
Conservative treatment of keratocyst: A follow-up study
Authors: Singh Vibha , Mohammad Shadab , Singh Nimisha , Das Somdipto
Published: May 2013

Objective: Odontogenic keratocyst (OKC) is a cyst of tooth origin with an aggressive clinical behavior, including a high recurrence rate. The OKC is well known for its tendency to recur, potential aggressive behavior and defined histopathological feature. The aim of our study is to report the outcome of conservative treatment protocol for OKC. Materials and Methods: A retrospective chart review was undertaken of all cases of OKC treated at Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, KGMU, Lucknow between 2007 and 2009. A total of 35 cases of cystic lesion were identified, which were treated by one group of surgeons. On histopathological examination 17 patients out of 35 were diagnosed as OKC. We have treated all the patients of OKC with surgical curettage followed by iodoform dressing. There was only one recurrence reported, which was further treated by resection. Clinical features and various treatment modalities of OKC are discussed. Conclusions: Enucleation followed by open packing can be used as a choice of treatment with low recurrence rate for the large keratocystic lesions. The patient should have periodic radiographic and clinical examination. In the cases of the recurrence, lesion should be treated by resection and reconstruction
Sequencing and Computational Approaches to Identification and Characterization of Microbial Organisms
Authors: Yadav Brijesh Singh , Ronda Venkateswarlu , Vashista Dinesh P. , Sharma Bhaskar
Published: May 2013

The recent advances in sequencing technologies and computational approaches are propelling scientists ever closer towards complete understanding of human-microbial interactions. The powerful sequencing platforms are rapidly producing huge amounts of nucleotide sequence data which are compiled into huge databases. This sequence data can be retrieved, assembled, and analyzed for identification of microbial pathogens and diagnosis of diseases. In this article, we present a commentary on how the metagenomics incorporated with microarray and new sequencing techniques are helping microbial detection and characterization.
Targeted Therapies in the Treatment of Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Wei Zhengyu , Doria Cataldo , Liu Yuan
Published: May 2013

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common liver cancer and the third leading cause of cancer death. It has been a major worldwide health problem with more new cases being diagnosed each year. The current available therapies for patients with advanced HCC are extremely limited. Therefore, it is of great clinical interests to develop more effective therapies for systemic treatment of advanced HCC. Several promising target-based drugs have been tested in a number of clinical trials. One breakthrough of these efforts is the approved clinical use of sorafenib in patients with advanced HCC. Targeted therapies are becoming an attractive option for the treatment of advanced HCC. In this review, we summarize the most recent progress in clinical targeted treatments of advanced HCC.
Analysis of Synonymous Codon Usage Patterns in Seven Different Citrus Species
Authors: Xu Chen , Dong Jing , Tong Chunfa , Gong Xindong , Wen Qiang , Zhuge Qiang
Published: May 2013

We used large samples of expressed sequence tags to characterize the patterns of codon usage bias (CUB) in seven different Citrus species and to analyze their evolutionary effect on selection and base composition. We found that A- and T-ending codons are predominant in Citrus species. Next, we identified 21 codons for 18 different amino acids that were considered preferred codons in all seven species. We then performed correspondence analysis and constructed plots for the effective number of codons (ENCs) to analyze synonymous codon usage. Multiple regression analysis showed that gene expression in each species had a constant influence on the frequency of optional codons (FOP). Base composition differences between the proportions were large. Finally, positive selection was detected during the evolutionary process of the different Citrus species. Overall, our results suggest that codon usages were the result of positive selection. Codon usage variation among Citrus genes is influenced by translational selection, mutational bias, and gene length. CUB is strongly affected by selection pressure at the translational level, and gene length plays only a minor role. One possible explanation for this is that the selection-mediated codon bias is consistently strong in Citrus, which is one of the most widely cultivated fruit trees.
Estimating neutral nanoparticle steady state size distribution and growth according to measurements of intermediate air ions
Authors: Tammet H. , Komsaare K. , Hõrrak U.
Published: May 2013

Abstract. The concentration of nanometer aerosol particles in atmospheric air during quiet periods of new particle formation is low and direct measuring is difficult. We study what information about neutral particles can be drawn from measurements of intermediate ions, which are the electrically charged particles between 1.5–7.5 nm in diameter. If the coagulation sink of nanoparticles and the growth rate of charged particles are known, then the steady state equations allow us to calculate the size distribution of neutral nanoparticles. Variations in the trial value of the growth rate have a minor effect on the estimates of the concentrations and size distributions. There exists a value of the constant growth rate of charged nanoparticles that leads to a minimum deviation of the estimated growth rate of neutral nanoparticles from the growth rate of charged nanoparticles. Rough estimates of the growth rate and size distribution of neutral nanoparticles are derived despite the fact that the sample data of intermediate ion measurements is not accompanied by simultaneous measurements of the background aerosol and ionization rate. In the case of a near-median intermediate ion concentration of 21 ± 2 cm−3 in the urban air of a small town, the growth rate of nanoparticles is estimated to be about 2 nm h−1, while the growth flux or apparent nucleation rate is about 0.5 cm−3 s−1 at 3 nm and about 0.08 cm−3 s−1 at 7 nm. The results suggest that the process of new particle formation is not interrupted during the quiet periods between events of intensive nucleation of atmospheric aerosols.
Evaluating evidence for Cl sources and oxidation chemistry in a coastal, urban environment
Authors: Young C. J. , Washenfelder R. A. , Edwards P. M. , Parrish D. D. , Gilman J. B. , Kuster W. C. , Mielke L. H. , Osthoff H. D. , Tsai C. , Pikelnaya O. , Stutz J. , Veres P. R. , Roberts J. M. , Griffith S. , Dusanter S. , Stevens P. S. , Flynn J. , Grossberg N. , Lefer B. , Holloway J. S. , Peischl J. , Ryerson T. B. , Atlas E. L. , Blake D. R. , Brown S. S.
Published: May 2013

Abstract. The role of chlorine atoms (Cl) in atmospheric oxidation was traditionally thought to be limited to the marine boundary layer, where they are produced through heterogeneous reactions involving sea salt. However, recent observation of photolytic Cl precursors (ClNO2 and Cl2) formed from anthropogenic pollution has expanded the potential importance of Cl to include coastal and continental urban areas. Measurements of ClNO2 in Los Angeles during CalNex showed it to be an important primary (first generation) radical source. Ratios of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) have been proposed as a sensitive method to quantify Cl oxidation, but have shown little evidence for a significant role of Cl outside of the Arctic. We used a box model with the Master Chemical Mechanism (MCM v3.2) chemistry scheme, constrained by observations in Los Angeles, to examine the Cl-sensitivity of the most commonly used VOC ratios (i-butane, n-butane, and propane) as a function of NOx and secondary radical production. Model results indicated these and faster reacting VOC tracer ratios could not detect the influence of Cl unless the sustained ratio of OH to Cl was below 200. However, the model results also show that secondary (second generation) OH production resulting from Cl oxidation of VOCs is strongly influenced by NOx, and that this effect can obscure the importance of Cl as a primary oxidant. Calculated concentrations of Cl showed a maximum in mid-morning due to a photolytic source from ClNO2 and loss primarily to reactions with VOCs. The OH to Cl ratio was below 200 for approximately three hours in the morning, but Cl oxidation was not evident from the measured ratios of VOCs. Instead, model simulations show that secondary OH production causes VOC ratios to follow the values expected for OH oxidation despite the significant input of primary Cl from ClNO2 photolysis in the morning. Despite the prevalence of secondary OH as an oxidant in Los Angeles, Cl may play an important role in tropospheric chemistry. The reactivity of Cl in Los Angeles during CalNex was more than an order of magnitude larger than that of OH. In addition, because of its reactivity toward different classes of VOCs and its greater propensity to participate in chain propagation rather than sink reactions, Cl atoms have a different impact on regional atmospheric oxidation than do OH radicals.
Host-Parasite Relationship of Ticks (Acari: Ixodidae and Argasidae) and Feral Pigs (Sus scrofa) in the Nhecolândia Region of the Pantanal Wetlands in Mato Grosso do Sul
Authors: Cançado P. H. D. , Faccini J. L. H. , Herrera H. M. , Tavares L. E. R. , Mourão G. M. , Piranda E. M. , Paes R. C. S. , Ribeiro C. C. D. U. , Borghesan T. C. , Piacenti A. K. , Kinas M. A. , Santos C. C. , Ono T. M. , Paiva F.
Published: May 2013

Feral pigs (S. scrofa) were introduced to the Pantanal region around 200 years ago and the population appears to be in expansion. Its eradication is considered to be impossible. The population of feral pigs in the Pantanal wetlands is currently estimated at one million. Two scientific excursions were organized. The first was conducted during the dry season, when 21 feral pigs were captured and the second was during the wet season, when 23 feral pigs were captured. Ticks were collected and the oviposition and hatching process were studied to confirm the biological success of each tick species. Three tick species were found to be feeding on feral pigs: Amblyomma cajennense, A. parvum, and Ornithodoros rostratus. During the dry season, 178 adult A. cajennense were collected, contrasting with 127 A. cajennense specimens in the wet season. This suggests that the seasonality of these ticks in the Brazilian Pantanal wetlands could be different from other regions. The results indicate that A. parvum and A. cajennense are biologically successful parasites in relation to feral pigs. A. cajennense appears to have adapted to this tick-host relationship, as well as the areas where feral pigs are abundant, and could play a role in the amplification of this tick population.
Nutritional peculiarities during the prenatal period and physical status of the offspring: a pilot experimental study
Authors: Araminaitė V. , Šimkūnaitė-Rizgelienė R. , Žalgevičienė V. , Bukelskienė V. , Tutkuvienė J.
Published: May 2013

Nutrition in uterus has a significant influence on the formation of metabolic phenotype in offspring generations. The objective of this study was to investigate maternal nutrition and the changes in body weight at few generations of rat offspring.
Materials and methods. 12 maternal rats and 121 offspring rats were used in the study. Mature female Wistar rats were divided into 3  groups with respect to nutritional restriction (one control and two experimental groups). Rats from the first experimental group (1  EG) were 50  percent food-restricted one month prior and during the pregnancy; rats from the second experimental group (2 EG) were 50 percent food-restricted exclusively one month prior to the pregnancy. After weaning all the pups were fed with control diet, weighted weekly, observed and evaluated for the morphological indices of metabolic stress.
Results and conclusions. Maternal nutritional restriction in pre-pregnancy and pregnancy may alter the physical status and behaviour of the offspring: the reactions differ in both sexes; the alterations depend on the time window of exposure. There were no weight-related differences between groups in body weight of female offspring rats during the all time periods of the study. The first generation 1 EG male offsprings were the heaviest; the tendency for a greater than control group weight was also observed at the second generation up till the early reproductive period. The 2nd generation 2 EG male rats were the heaviest and exhibited some evident markers of chronic diseases.
Growth tendencies of the “generation of independence”: the relation between socioeconomic factors and growth indices
Authors: Suchomlinov Andrej , Tutkuvienė Janina
Published: May 2013

Background. The aim of the study was to evaluate the physical status of children born in 1990 in Vilnius City and Region from birth up to the end of puberty, and to investigate the epochal changes and tendencies of their growth.
Materials and methods. 1  535 personal health records of children born in 1990 in Vilnius City and Region were analyzed. The main growth indices (height and weight) were recorded from birth up to the age of 18 years. The prevalence of overweight and obesity in children was found using the cut-off points for body mass index recommended by the International Obesity Task Force (Cole et al., 2000). The results of the present study were compared with the results of Lithuanian growth studies, as well as with the growth standards of the World Health Organization (WHO).
Results. The prevalence of overweight and obesity in children born in 1990 in Vilnius City and Region was low: 13.60% and 2.40% in the 18-year-old boys and 9.51% and 1.90% in the 18-year-old girls, respectively. The retardation of growth was observed during the first years of independence. The main growth indices have changed in girls more than in boys: both their height (from 166.5 ± 7.0 cm to 167.9 ± 6.2 cm, during the two past decades) and their BMI (from 20.37  ±  2.27  kg/m2 to 21.28 ± 3.33 kg/m2, over the past ten years) increased.
Conclusions. Certain retardation in growth of the children born in 1990 was related with the great political, social and economic transition in Lithuania. However, the retardation process was reversible. The main indices of the physical status (height, weight and body mass index) of children did not change much during the two past decades (the acceleration had stabilized). The growth patterns of the “generation of independence” by the end of adolescence showed the tendency towards a higher body weight, though the prevalence of overweight and obesity remained low.
Foods that cause adverse reactions and ailments: the EuroPrevall survey results in Vilnius (Lithuania)
Authors: Kavaliūnas Andrius , Šurkienė Genė , Dubakienė Rūta , Stukas Rimantas , Žagminas Kęstutis
Published: May 2013

Aim. The aim of this study was to determine foods that cause adverse reactions and ailments to citizens of Vilnius (Lithuania).
Methods. Vilnius University was a partner in the EuroPrevall integrated project – “The Prevalence Cost and Basis of Food Allergy in Europe”, which is a EU-funded multi-disciplinary research study. By implementing this project, 4 333 6–12 year old schoolchildren of the 1st–4th grades from primary schools in Vilnius were asked to answer an anonymous questionnaire (3 084 questionnaires were gathered in return, response rate 71.2%). Meanwhile, 3  985 adults were asked to answer similar questions during interviews (2 634 of them agreed to take part in the survey, response rate 66.1%).
Results. Fruits and berries (24.6%), and mostly citrus fruits (7.8%) were the most common foods that caused clinical symptoms among the children. Other important problematic foods were milk and dairy (19.4%), chocolate (10.9%), egg (7.4%). Fruits and berries were also the most common foods that caused clinical symptoms among adults (33.3%); other important foods were nuts (19.6%), vegetables (11.8%), chocolate (9.8%). Meat, crustaceans, cereals were food that caused clinical symptoms least to children and adults (≤2.0%).
Conclusions. The list of the most allergenic foods is different in various countries and regions. Food allergy is closely related with age, nutritional habits of the family and society, culture and religion. Therefore, we can find many similarities and disparities when comparing Vilnius with other cities or places in Europe and the world. In Lithuania, there are congenial conditions to grow and consume fruits, vegetables and dairy, therefore these foods are more likely to become allergens to some part of society.
Next-generation whole-exome sequencing contribution to identification of rare autosomal recessive diseases
Authors: Rančelis Tautvydas , Cimbalistienė Loreta , Kučinskas Vaidutis
Published: May 2013

A rare disease is any disease that affects a small percentage of the population. In the European Union a disease is defined as rare if it affects less than 1 in 2,000 people. Despite a small percentage of affected people by one disease, the total number of rare diseases is estimated to be around 7,000–8,000, thus, because of their large number they have an impact on many people and even 30 million of European Union citizens may be suffering from them. Research of rare diseases may help to explain their mechanism or to develop more advanced diagnostics. Classical strategies for studies of rare autosomal recessive diseases encounter with additional problems (multiple genetic variants, de novo mutations, extremely rare cases) that make these strategies not enough effective. Next generation whole-exome sequencing (WES) opened a new page in Mendelian disease gene discovery – enabling to study autosomal recessive diseases in a new way. During 3 years of WES usage many novel mutations of autosomal recessive disease genes were discovered.
Incidence and etiology of mandibular fractures treated in Vilnius University Hospital Žalgiris clinic, Lithuania: a review of 1 508 cases
Authors: Zaleckas Linas , Drobnys Povilas , Rimkuvienė Jūratė
Published: May 2013

Relevance of the study: this is the first Lithuanian study, which analyzes in detail the incidence, etiology and circumstances of mandibular fractures treated in the Vilnius University Hospital, Lithuania. The data and findings of this study are compared with other studies, identifying specific mandibular trauma patterns in Lithuania.
Background. During past few decades, the socioeconomic situation in Lithuania has been changing significantly, and there is a need to evaluate data about mandibular fracture epidemiology and etiology. The aim of the study was to analyse the incidence, etiology, circumstances and localization of mandibular fractures treated in the Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Vilnius University Hospital Žalgiris Clinic, Lithuania.
Materials and methods. The medical records of 1 508 patients with mandibular fractures, treated between 1 January 2005 and 31 December 2009, were reviewed. The following data were analysed: age, gender, trauma date and time, etiology and circumstances of trauma, fracture area.
Results. The male : female ratio was 7.3 : 1. The majority of patients (53.6%) were young people, aged 16–30 years. Mandibular fractures most often (53%) occurred between May and September, mostly at weekends (61%) and in the late evening (60%). The main cause of mandibular fractures was interpersonal violence (70%), followed by falls and accidents (19%), and road traffic accidents (6%). Even 15% of men and 10% of women were alcohol intoxicated at the time of trauma. The most common fracture area was mandibular angle (32%) and condylar process fractures (31%).
Conclusions. The incidence of mandibular fractures was remarkably larger in the male, during the second and third decade of life. Most mandibular fractures occurred in the warm period of the year, especially at weekends and late evening. The mandibular basis region was the most common fracture site. The most common cause of mandibular fractures was assault.
Mortality prediction following CABG surgery: comparison of EuroSCORE vs general risk scoring systems
Authors: Samalavičius Robertas , Ringaitienė Donata , Urbonas Karolis , Misiurienė Irina , Norkūnas Gediminas , Valaika Arūnas , Kalinauskas Gintaras
Published: May 2013

Background. The aim of the study was to compare the accuracy of general scoring systems on ICU arrival with preoperative evaluation using the EuroSCORE risk model in patients undergoing cardiac surgery.
Methods. Ethical committee approved a prospective observational study. Data for 514 consecutive CABG patients operated during one year period were collected. EuroSCORE risk score before surgery and APACHE II, SAPS II and MODS on ICU admission following surgery were calculated for all patients. Calibration of the risk stratification models was performed using the Hosmer-Lemeshow Goodness-of-Fit test, discrimination was made using Receiver Operative Characterictic (ROC) Curves. Predicted values of the risk scoring systems were compared with the actual mortality rate.
Results. The observed crude hospital mortality rate of patients during the study period was 2.7%. All risk scoring systems overestimated mortality (Apache  II  –  12.2%, SAPS  II  –  5.5%, MODS  –  6.8%, EuroSCORE  –  4.5%). Hovewer, the preoperative EuroSCORE Risk Stratification System performed better than the postoperative General Severity scoring systems on ICU admission, while the APACHE II system showed the worst discriminatory capability.
Conclusions. General Severity scoring systems on ICU arrival following cardiac surgery have worse discriminatory ability in predicting hospital mortality compared to the EuroSCORE Risk Evaluation System performed preoperatively.
Influence of the Plasma Absorption on the Longitudinal Dust Lattice Waves in Dusty Plasmas
Authors: Ki Dae-Han , Jung Young-Dae
Published: May 2013

We investigate the influence of the plasma absorption on the longitudinal dust lattice wave in highly collisional dusty plasmas. The dispersion relation for the dust lattice wave has been obtained by the considering of the screened effective nearest-neighbor interactions. It is found that the plasma absorption effect strongly suppresses the frequency of the longitudinal dust lattice wave. It is also found that the frequency of the dust lattice wave decreases with increasing the inter-dust grain spacing. In addition, we have found that the frequency of the dust lattice wave decreases with an increase of the ratio of the electron temperature to the ion temperatures, in dusty plasmas. Hence, we have found that the amplitudes of the dust lattice waves in one-temperature plasmas are always greater than those in highly nonequilibrium dusty plasmas.
Acceptor Levels due to a Complex Including the Nitrogen–Hydrogen Bond in GaAsN Films Grown by Chemical Beam Epitaxy
Authors: Suzuki Hidetoshi , Fukuyama Atsuhiko , Ikari Tetsuo
Published: May 2013

The acceptor levels and their concentration in GaAsN films grown by the chemical beam epitaxy technique were investigated through detailed analysis of the temperature dependence of hole concentration. Two acceptor levels A1 and A2 were found, and their energy levels were fixed at 130 ±20 and 55 ±10 meV, respectively, from the valence band maximum. Both concentrations were on the order of 1017 cm-3 and compensated by the concentration of donor on the same order. The concentration of A1 had a linear relationship with the number of N–H bonds in films grown at the same growth temperature, while the slope decreased with growth temperature. These results strongly suggested that a complex defect including the N–H bond was the origin of the A1 acceptor level.