bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Case of Hyper IgD and Periodic Fever Syndrome in Japan
Authors: Kawashima Hisashi , Hoshi Akiyoshi , Ioi Hiroaki , Ishii Chiako , Sato Satoshi , Kashiwagi Yasuyo , Takekuma Kouji , Hoshika Akinori
Published: October 2017

We report a four-year-old Japanese girl with hyper IgD and periodic fever syndrome. There is a first report of hyper IgD syndrome (HIDS) of which the genomic study was done in Japan. In this report a girl complained of periodic fever and abdominal symptoms accompanied with high levels of mevalonic acid in urine and serum. She has been well controlled by non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for 3 years.
Exophthalmos as a Presenting Manifestation of Limited Wegener's Granulomatosis in a Patient with Prior Graves' Disease
Authors: Bowers Brian , Gupta Deepak , Patel Hirenkumar , Mirza Naureen
Published: October 2017

Wegener's granulomatosis is a granulomatous necrotizing vasculitis characterized by its predilection to affect the upper and lower respiratory tracts and kidneys. Ocular manifestations such as keratitis, conjunctivitis, scleritis, episcleritis, nasolacrimal duct obstruction, uveitis, retroorbital pseudotumor with proptosis retinal vessel occlusion, and optic neuritis have all been described. We present a case of limited Wegener's granulomatosis presenting with proptosis.

A 57 year old woman with a history of Graves' disease 20 yrs ago, presented to her ophthalmologist with new onset of exophthalmos of right eye. An MRI of the brain and orbits revealed a soft tissue mass behind the right orbit. The biopsy of the mass revealed transmural inflammation with fibrinoid necrosis consistent with necrotizing vasculitis. She was diagnosed with Wegener's granulomatosis limited to the eye and was treated with oral cyclophosphamide and prednisone followed by weekly methotrexate with good response. Though ocular manifestations of Wegener's granulomatosis are well described, a review of the literature revealed that exophthalmos as the lone presenting manifestation is quite rare. Only two cases have been reported in the English literature since 1977. This case illustrates the importance of considering a diagnosis of limited Wegener's granulomatosis presenting with proptosis of the orbit.
Hepatocyte Growth Factor Level in Cerebrospinal Fluid as an Additional Marker in Patient with Drug-Resistant Streptococcus Pneumoniae Meningitis Treated with Linezolid
Authors: Tsai Hung-Chin , Chen Yao-Shen , Lee Susan Shin-Jung , Lin Yu-Hung , Wann Shue-Ren , Sy Cheng Len , Liu Yung-Ching
Published: October 2017

Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) is a multifunctional cytokine that has well-defined mitogenic, motogenic, and morphogenic functions on the epithelial cells. Strong increases of HGF concentrations in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) are only present in patients with acute bacterial meningitis. We report a 15-year-old young man with drug resistant Streptococcus pneumoniae meningitis complicated with right 6th cranial nerve palsy. He presented with fever, headache and neck stiffness for 3 days and was treated with intravenous antimicrobial agents including linezolid and dexamethasone successfully. An association between CSF HGF concentrations and CSF proteins is observed (r = 0.897, p = 0.039. Pearson correlation test). This result showed that HGF level in CSF might act as an additional marker in patients with bacterial meningitis.
Successful Management of Invasive Pulmonary Nocardiosis and Aspergillosis in a Patient with T-Cell Lymphoma: A Case Report
Authors: Al-Anazi Khalid A. , Aljurf Mahmoud D. , Al-Mohareb Fahad I. , Al-Dabal Laila , Zaitoni Mohammed , Halim Majed
Published: October 2017

In patients with malignant hematological disorders receiving immunosuppressive therapy, invasive pulmonary infections are serious complications that are associated with high morbidity and mortality. In immunocompromised hosts with impaired cellular immunity, two or more organisms may coexist leading to a wide range of clinical and radiological manifestations.

Reported here is an old man who was diagnosed to have angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma at King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre in Riyadh in December 2004. The lymphoma was treated with various immunosuppressive agents including alemtuzumab. In October 2006, the patient was admitted with severe bronchopneumonia caused by Nocardia asteroides and Aspergillus niger that was complicated by septic shock. The invasive pulmonary infections were successfully treated with trimethoprim-sulphamethoxazole, amikacin and liposomal amphotericin-B (amBisome).
Dissecting Aneurysms of Bilateral Anterior Cerebral Artery Complicated by Subarachnoid Hemorrhage after Cerebral Infarction: A Case Report
Authors: Kurosu Akihiro , Hatashita Shizuo , Ueno Hideo
Published: October 2017

Introduction

Intracranial dissecting aneurysms have been increased due to recent advancements in diagnostic imaging. However there have been little article with subarachnoid hemorrhage and cerebral infarction occurring almost at the same time. We performed the surgical treatment and obtained good result.

Case presentation

A 47-year-old male presented to our hospital with chief complaints of sudden headache and mild paralysis of the left lower extremity. Brain imaging at admission revealed cerebral infarction in the right frontal lobe and subarachnoid hemorrhage in the frontal convexy and anterior interhemispheric fissure. The left and right internal carotid angiography showed a bulging cerebral aneurysm at the left A1–A2 junction and stenosis and arterial dissections in the peripheral of the bilateral anterior cerebral artery. Wrapping was performed for the dissecting aneurysm of the left anterior cerebral artery. For the right anterior cerebral artery, trapping was performed at the A2 segment without vascular anastomosis. The patient's postoperative course was uneventful.

Conclusion

A consensus has not been reached on the treatment for intracranial dissecting aneurysms. Proximal trapping without vascular reconstruction was performed for the right anterior cerebral artery without vascular anastomosis to prevent rebleeding. However no symptoms of neurological deficiency were observed. Proximal trapping of dissecting aneurysm seems to be a good option when patient's functional and life prognosis are taken into account in case that vascular reconstruction will be anticipated difficulty.
DNA in Amphibian and Reptile Venom Permits Access to Genomes without Specimen Sacrifice
Authors: Kwok Hang Fai , Chen Tianbao , Ivanyi Craig , Shaw Chris
Published: October 2017

Amphibian defensive skin secretions and reptile venoms are rich sources of bioactive peptides with potential pharmacological/pharmaceutical applications. As amphibian and reptile populations are in rapid global decline, our research group has been developing analytical methods that permit generation of robust molecular data from non-invasive skin secretion samples and venom samples. While previously we have demonstrated that parallel proteome and venom gland transcriptome analyses can be performed on such samples, here we report the presence of DNA that facilitates the more widely-used applications of gene sequencing, such as molecular phylogenetics, in a non-invasive manner that circumvents specimen sacrifice. From this “surrogate” tissue, we acquired partial 12S and 16S rRNA gene sequences that are presented for illustration purposes. Thus from a single sample of amphibian skin secretion and reptile venom, robust and complementary proteome, transcriptome and genome data can be generated for applications in diverse scientific disciplines.
Gene Expression Analysis of Four Radiation-resistant Bacteria
Authors: Gao Na , Ma Bin-Guang , Zhang Yu-Sheng , Song Qin , Chen Ling-Ling , Zhang Hong-Yu
Published: October 2017

To investigate the general radiation-resistant mechanisms of bacteria, bioinformatic method was employed to predict highly expressed genes for four radiation-resistant bacteria, i.e. Deinococcus geothermalis ( D. geo), Deinococcus radiodurans ( D. rad), Kineococcus radiotolerans ( K. rad) and Rubrobacter xylanophilus ( R. xyl). It is revealed that most of the three reference gene sets, i.e. ribosomal proteins, transcription factors and major chaperones, are generally highly expressed in the four bacteria. Recombinase A ( recA), a key enzyme in recombinational repair, is predicted to be highly or marginally highly expressed in the four bacteria. However, most proteins associated with other repair systems show low expression levels. Some genes participating in ‘information storage and processing,’ ‘cellular processes and signaling’ and ‘metabolism’ are among the top twenty predicted highly expressed (PHX) genes in the four genomes. Many antioxidant enzymes and proteases are commonly highly expressed in the four bacteria, indicating that these enzymes play important roles in resisting irradiation. Finally, a number of ‘hypothetical genes’ are among the top twenty PHX genes in each genome, some of them might contribute vitally to resist irradiation. Some of the prediction results are supported by experimental evidence. All the above information not only helps to understand the radiation-resistant mechanisms but also provides clues for identifying new radiation-resistant genes from these bacteria.
Low serum Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Associated with Anti-PR-3 AncA in Autistic Children with GI Disease
Authors: Russo A.J. , Krigsman A. , Jepson B. , Wakefield Andrew
Published: October 2017

Aim

To assess the possible relationship between serum alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAT) levels and anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCA) in autistic children with severe GI disease and to test the hypothesis that there is an association between low serum AAT levels, the presence of ANCA and inflammatory GI disease seen in some autistic children.

Subjects and Methods

Serum from 40 autistic children with chronic digestive disease (many with ileo-colonic lymphoid nodular hyperplasia (LNH) and inflammation of the colorectum, small bowel and/or stomach), and 41 controls (21 age matched autistic children with no GI disease and 20 age matched children without autism or GI disease) were tested using ELISAs designed to quantitate ANCA (anti-PR3), AAT and PR3 levels.

Results

We found that a significant number of autistic children with chronic digestive disease had anti-PR3 ANCA, high serum PR3 and high severity of disease when compared to controls. This same group of autistic children had low serum levels of AAT compared to controls, which also correlated with the presence of anti-PR3 ANCA, high serum PR3, as well as the severity of intestinal disease, particularly LNH and severe erythema.

Discussion

These results suggest a relationship between low AAT levels, ANCA and severity of GI disease seen in a subpopulation of ASD individuals. We suggest that low AAT levels may result in high levels of PR3, which may, in turn be associated with the presence of ANCA.
Association of HMGA2 Gene Variation with Height in Specific Pediatric Age Categories
Authors: Grant Struan F.A. , Li Mingyao , Bradfield Jonathan P. , Kim Cecilia E. , Annaiah Kiran , Santa Erin , Glessner Joseph T. , Casalunovo Tracy , Frackelton Edward C , Otieno F. George , Shaner Julie L. , Smith Ryan M. , Eckert Andrew W. , Imielinski Marcin , Chiavacci Rosetta M. , Berkowitz Robert I. , Hakonarson Hakon
Published: October 2017

Background

Recently an association was demonstrated between the single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP), rs1042725, within the HMGA2 locus and height as a consequence of a genome wide association (GWA) study of this trait in adults; this observation was also reported in children aged 7–11 years old.

Objective

We examined in our Caucasian childhood cohort the effects of two strong surrogates for this SNP at this locus with height, rs8756 and rs7968902, with respect to the same pediatric age category but also in children grouped separately as younger and older.

Methods

Utilizing data from an ongoing GWA study in our cohort of 2,619 Caucasian children with measurements for height, we investigated the association of the previously reported variation at the HMGA2 locus with this height treated as a quantitative trait (age and sex corrected) in childhood in the 2–6 (n = 706), 7–11 (n = 617) and 12–18 (n = 1293) years old categories.

Results

The minor alleles of rs8756 and rs7968902 respectively (strong surrogates for rs1042725 i.e. r 2 = 0.873 and 0.761 in the CEU HapMap respectively) were significantly associated with height in the 7–11 years old age group ( P = 3.53 × 10–3 and 2.82 × 10–4, respectively) However in the 2–6 and 12–18 years old age groups, no association was observed.

Conclusions

We observe a strong association with height in same age group of 7–11 years old as has been previously reported. However, in the under 7s and the over 11s, no such association was observed.
Case Report: Old World Mucosal Leishmaniasis: Report of Five Imported Cases to the Hospital for Tropical Diseases, London, United Kingdom
Authors: Patel Trupti A. , Scadding Glenis K. , Phillips David E. , Lockwood Diana N.
Published: October 2017

Old World species of Leishmania typically cause visceral and cutaneous leishmaniasis. Mucosal involvement is typically seen with infection by Leishmania species found in South America, usually after the healing of cutaneous leishmaniasis. We present five imported cases of mucosal leishmaniasis caused by Old World Mediterranean Leishmania infantum exclusively affecting the nasal mucosa or vocal cord. In only one case was there a recollection of a preceding cutaneous lesion compatible with cutaneous Leishmaniasis. Of significance was that four out of five cases were receiving local corticosteroids for chronic lung disorders and four were systemically immunosuppressed. This report highlights the importance of considering mucosal leishmaniasis in the differential diagnosis in those presenting with upper respiratory tract mucosal lesions with a relevant travel history to the Mediterranean and in whom malignancy has been excluded.
Dengue Virus Serotypes 1 and 2 Responsible for Major Dengue Outbreaks in Nepal: Clinical, Laboratory, and Epidemiological Features
Authors: Dumre Shyam Prakash , Bhandari Renu , Shakya Geeta , Shrestha Sanjaya Kumar , Cherif Mahamoud Sama , Ghimire Prakash , Klungthong Chonticha , Yoon In-Kyu , Hirayama Kenji , Na-Bangchang Kesara , Fernandez Stefan
Published: October 2017

Dengue virus (DENV) is expanding toward previously nonendemic areas. DENV has recently been introduced in Nepal with limited information. We report the clinical features and serotype distribution of DENV in Nepal during the 2010 outbreaks. A total of 1,215 clinical dengue cases at two major hospitals of central and western Nepal were investigated. Demographic, clinical, and laboratory parameters were recorded. Serum specimens were tested for DENV by IgM/IgG enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). We confirmed DENV infection in 403 (33%) patients from 12 districts with an estimated case fatality rate of 1.5%. DENV infection was more common in adults (87%) and urban settings (74%). We detected all four serotypes but DENV-1 and -2 were mainly responsible for major outbreaks (92%). Overall, 60% of all DENV infections were secondary and 17% were severe dengue; both being more frequent among the DENV-2 infections. Rash, bleeding, abdominal pain, hepatomegaly, elevated liver enzymes, and thrombocytopenia were significantly more common in severe dengue compared with nonsevere infections. We also confirmed the expansion of dengue to hill urban areas (DENV-1 and -2), including the capital Kathmandu (altitude, 1,300 m) though > 90% cases were from southern plains. Differential clinical and laboratory features probably help in clinical decisions. Multiple serotypes circulation and elevated secondary infections pose potential risk of severe outbreaks and deaths in the future. Therefore, a country with recent dengue introduction, like Nepal, urgently requires a systematic surveillance and appropriate control measures in place to respond to any disastrous outbreaks.
Diagnostic Validation of the RealStar® Zika Virus Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction Kit for Detection of Zika Virus RNA in Urine and Serum Specimens
Authors: Ölschläger Stephan , Enfissi Antoine , Zaruba Mareen , Kazanji Mirdad , Rousset Dominique
Published: October 2017

With the Zika virus outbreak in South America starting in 2015 and its potential to cause malformation of the fetus in infected women, the need for diagnostic methods became obvious. Until now, only limited data are available on the diagnostic performance of commercial kits. Here, we present data comparing the RealStar® Zika Virus RT-PCR Kit 1.0 for detection of Zika virus from 208 serum and urine samples collected in French Guiana with a reference method. Of these, 114 samples tested positive with the RealStar® Kit and 111 with the reference method.
Building Socialism : Architecture and Urbanism in East German Literature, 1955–1973
Authors: Swope Curtis
Published: October 2017

Building Socialism reveals how East German writers’ engagement with the rapidly changing built environment from the mid-1950s to the early 1970s constitutes an untold story about the emergence of literary experimentation in the post-War period. It breaks new ground by exploring the centrality of architecture to a mid-century modernist literature in dialogue with multiple literary and left-wing theoretical traditions and in tune with international assessments of modernist architecture and urban planning.

Design and construction were a central part of politics and everyday life in East Germany during this time as buildings old and new were asked to bear heavy ideological and social burdens. In their novels, stories, and plays, Heiner Müller, Christa Wolf, Günter Kunert, Volker Braun, Günter de Bruyn, and Brigitte Reimann responded to enormous new factory complexes, experimental new towns, the demolition of Berlin's tenements, and the propagation of a pared-down modernist aesthetic in interior design. Writers’ representation of the design, construction, and use of architecture formed part of a turn to modernist literary devices, including montage, metaphor, and shifting narrative perspectives. East Germany's literary architecture also represents a sophisticated theoretical reflection on the intractable problems of East Germany's socialist modernity, including the alliance between state socialism and technological modernization, competing commitments to working-class self-organization and the power of specialist planners and designers, and the attempt to create an alternative to fascism.
Oscillations in atmospheric water above Switzerland
Authors: Hocke Klemens , Navas-Guzmán Francisco , Moreira Lorena , Bernet Leonie , Mätzler Christian
Published: October 2017

Abstract. Cloud fraction (CF), integrated liquid water (ILW) and integrated water vapour (IWV) were continuously measured from 2004 to 2016 by the TROpospheric WAter RAdiometer (TROWARA) in Bern, Switzerland. There are indications for interannual variations of CF and ILW. A spectral analysis shows that IWV is dominated by an annual oscillation, leading to an IWV maximum of 24 kg m−2 in July to August and a minimum of 8 kg m−2 in February. The seasonal behaviour of CF and ILW is composed by both the annual and the semiannual oscillation. However, the annual oscillation of CF has a maximum in December while the annual oscillation of ILW has a maximum in July. The semiannual oscillations of CF and ILW are strong from 2010 to 2014. The normalized power spectra of ILW and CF show statistically significant spectral components with periods of 76, 85, 97 and 150 days. We find a similarity between the power spectra of ILW and CF with those of zonal wind at 830 hPa (1.5 km) above Bern. Particularly, the occurrence of higher harmonics in the CF and ILW spectra is possibly forced by the behaviour of the lower-tropospheric wind. The mean amplitude spectra of CF, ILW and IWV show increased short-term variability on timescales less than 40 days from spring to fall. We find a weekly cycle of CF and ILW from June to September with increased values on Saturday, Sunday and Monday.
Projected global ground-level ozone impacts on vegetation under different emission and climate scenarios
Authors: Sicard Pierre , Anav Alessandro , De Marco Alessandra , Paoletti Elena
Published: October 2017

Abstract. The impact of ground-level ozone (O3) on vegetation is largely under-investigated at the global scale despite large areas worldwide that are exposed to high surface O3 levels. To explore future potential impacts of O3 on vegetation, we compared historical and projected surface O3 concentrations simulated by six global atmospheric chemistry transport models on the basis of three representative concentration pathways emission scenarios (i.e. RCP2.6, 4.5, 8.5). To assess changes in the potential surface O3 threat to vegetation at the global scale, we used the AOT40 metric. Results point out a significant exceedance of AOT40 in comparison with the recommendations of UNECE for the protection of vegetation. In fact, many areas of the Northern Hemisphere show that AOT40-based critical levels will be exceeded by a factor of at least 10 under RCP8.5. Changes in surface O3 by 2100 worldwide range from about +4–5 ppb in the RCP8.5 scenario to reductions of about 2–10 ppb in the most optimistic scenario, RCP2.6. The risk of O3 injury for vegetation, through the potential O3 impact on photosynthetic assimilation, decreased by 61 and 47 % under RCP2.6 and RCP4.5, respectively, and increased by 70 % under RCP8.5. Key biodiversity areas in southern and northern Asia, central Africa and North America were identified as being at risk from high O3 concentrations.
Estimating precipitation susceptibility in warm marine clouds using multi-sensor aerosol and cloud products from A-Train satellites
Authors: Bai Heming , Gong Cheng , Wang Minghuai , Zhang Zhibo , L'Ecuyer Tristan
Published: October 2017

Abstract. Precipitation susceptibility to aerosol perturbation plays a key role in understanding aerosol-cloud interactions and constraining aerosol indirect effects. However, large discrepancies exist in the previous satellite estimates of precipitation susceptibility. In this paper, multi-sensor aerosol and cloud products, including those from CALIPSO, CloudSat, MODIS, and AMSR-E from June 2006 to April 2011 are analyzed to estimate precipitation frequency susceptibility SPOP, precipitation intensity susceptibility SI, and precipitation rate susceptibility SR in warm marine clouds. We find that SPOP strongly depends on atmospheric stability, with stronger reductions in precipitation occurrence observed under more stable environments. Our results show that precipitation susceptibility for drizzle (with −15 dBZ rainfall threshold) is significant different from that for rain (with 0 dBZ rainfall threshold). Onset of drizzle is not as readily suppressed in warm clouds as rainfall while precipitation intensity susceptibility is generally smaller for rain than for drizzle. We find that SPOP derived with respect to aerosol index (AI) is about one-third of SPOP derived with respect to cloud droplet number concentration (CDNC). Overall, SPOP demonstrates relatively robust features throughout independent liquid water path (LWP) products and diverse rain products. In contrast, the behaviors of SI and SR are subject to LWP or rain products used to derive them.
Intensified Atlantic vs. weakened Pacific meridional overturning circulations in response to Tibetan Plateau uplift
Authors: Su Baohuang , Jiang Dabang , Zhang Ran , Sepulchre Pierre , Ramstein Gilles
Published: October 2017

Abstract. The role of the Tibetan Plateau (TP) in maintaining large-scale overturning circulation in the Atlantic and Pacific is investigated using a coupled atmosphere–ocean model. For the present day with a realistic topography, model simulation shows a strong Atlantic meridional overturning circulation (AMOC) but a near absence of a Pacific meridional overturning circulation (PMOC), which is in good agreement with present observations. In contrast, the simulation without the TP depicts a collapsed AMOC and a strong PMOC that dominates deep water formation. The switch in deep water formation between the two basins results from changes in the large-scale atmospheric circulation and atmosphere–ocean feedback in the Atlantic and Pacific. The intensified westerly winds and increased freshwater flux over the North Atlantic cause an initial slowdown of the AMOC, but the weakened East Asian monsoon circulation and associated decreased freshwater flux over the North Pacific enhance initial intensification of the PMOC. The further decreased heat flux and the associated increase in sea-ice fraction promote the final AMOC collapse over the Atlantic, while the further increased heat flux leads to the final PMOC establishment over the Pacific. Although the simulations were done in a cold world, it still importantly implicates that the uplift of the TP alone could have been a potential driver for the reorganization of PMOC–AMOC between the Late Eocene and Early Oligocene.
Convective rainfall in a dry climate: relations with synoptic systems and flash-flood generation in the Dead Sea region
Authors: Belachsen Idit , Marra Francesco , Peleg Nadav , Morin Efrat
Published: October 2017

Abstract. Spatiotemporal patterns of rainfall are important characteristics that influence runoff generation and flash-flood magnitude and require high-resolution measurements to be adequately represented. This need is further emphasized in arid climates, where rainfall is scarce and highly variable. In this study, 24 years of corrected and gauge-adjusted radar rainfall estimates are used to (i) identify the spatial structure and dynamics of convective rain cells in a dry climate region in the Eastern Mediterranean, (ii) to determine their climatology, and (iii) to understand their relation with the governing synoptic systems and with flash-flood generation. Rain cells are extracted using a segmentation method and a tracking algorithm, and are clustered into three synoptic patterns according to atmospheric variables from the ERA-Interim reanalysis. On average, the cells are about 90 km2 in size, move 13 m s−1 from west to east, and live for 18 min. The Cyprus low accounts for 30 % of the events, the low to the east of the study region for 44 %, and the Active Red Sea Trough for 26 %. The Active Red Sea Trough produces shorter rain events composed of rain cells with higher rain intensities, longer lifetime, smaller area, and lower velocities. The area of rain cells is positively correlated with topographic height. The number of cells is negatively correlated with the distance from the shoreline. Rain-cell intensity is negatively correlated with mean annual precipitation. Flash-flood-related events are dominated by rain cells of large size, low velocity, and long lifetime that move downstream with the main axis of the catchments. These results can be further used for stochastic simulations of convective rain storms and serve as input for hydrological models and for flash-flood nowcasting systems.
El iusnaturalismo tomista del siglo XX en Estados Unidos
Authors: Poole Diego
Published: October 2017

En este trabajo presentamos, en una visión panorámica, el iusnaturalismo tomista en la doctrina filosófico-jurídica de Estados Unidos desde princi- pios del siglo XX hasta nuestros días. Se concibe como una herramienta de trabajo para el estudioso del iusnaturalismo contemporáneo, una especie de “estado del arte” sobre la materia. Hay tres partes claramente diferen- ciadas: en la primera (apartados 1 al 7), la más extensa, después de una diferenciación conceptual básica entre la tradición de la ley natural (Natu- ral Law Tradition) y la tradición de los derechos naturales (Natural Rights Tradition), se estudian cada uno de los autores más representativos, y se muestra el debate actual entre “neoclásicos” (Grisez, Finnis, George...) y “neoescolásicos” (Veatch, McInerny, Hittinger, Long, Jensen, etc.). En la segunda parte (apartado 8), se exponen los congresos o las conferencias periódicas que están teniendo lugar actualmente en Estados Unidos para debatir temas relacionados con el iusnaturalismo. Y en la tercera (apartado 9), se muestra una selección de los textos que consideramos más relevan- tes sobre el iusnaturalismo norteamericano del siglo XX.
Una tesis sobre la naturaleza y las características de la obligación tributaria.
Authors: Masbernat Patricio
Published: October 2017

El presente artículo tiene por objeto presentar una evaluación de la concepción estándar de la obligación tributaria, y exponerla como una obligación casuística derivada de la relación jurídica tributaria, que sería más compatible con la idea de ciudadanía y Estado constitucional y democrático de derecho. A juicio del autor, la relación jurídica tributaria estaría mejor representada como perteneciente a un estatuto que vincula al Estado con el ciudadano en cuanto obligado tributario en general, y contribuyente en particular, y que es el producto principal de la potestad tributaria; de dicho estatuto nacerían obligaciones tributarias de diversa naturaleza. Que la obligación tributaria sea casuística implica que su contenido es específico y deriva de determinadas operaciones de distinta naturaleza y de decisiones institucionales. El fundamento de la obligación se encontraría, a juicio del autor, en todas las normas del sistema aplicables al caso. Por tanto, la obligación tributaria sería compleja, sistémica y dinámica. La obligación tributaria se debe distinguir enteramente del tributo, el cual solo presenta un contenido abstracto útil para especificar el contenido del derecho tributario, y, por tanto, de la construcción general que sustenta dogmáticamente el sistema tributario.
El papel de las instituciones microfinancieras en el posconflicto en Colombia
Authors: Grau-Prada José Pablo
Published: October 2017

Las instituciones microfinancieras (IMF) en Colombia, que tradicionalmente han sido ejemplo de inclusión financiera, pueden contribuir con los esfuerzos estatales para disminuir los efectos del conflicto armado. Su participación frente a un grupo especial de personas interesadas en reintegrarse a la sociedad las convoca a identificar los retos que surgen de esta labor y a diseñar productos financieros y no financieros, sin comprometer su patrimonio, acordes con el perfil de los sujetos interesados en reemplazar su actividad como partícipes del conflicto armado por actividades de emprendimiento empresarial. Se defiende la tesis que las IMF, no obstante su carácter privado, pueden apoyar las políticas estatales para el posconflicto mediante una ampliación de la cobertura en la prestación de los servicios microfinancieros en las zonas urbanas y en el sector rural. La metodología que se utilizó hace uso de la descripción y el análisis de elementos teóricos que fundamentan la existencia de las IMF y de las actividades que desarrolla; así como de la recolección y análisis de información del entorno dentro del cual prestan sus servicios.
Local Electric Field in Mass-Impregnated HVDC Cables
Authors: Håkonseth Gunnar , Ildstad Erling , Furuheim Knut Magne
Published: October 2017

Detailed knowledge of the electric field in the insulation of mass-impregnated HVDC cables is important in order to understand their breakdown mechanisms and to improve their design. When calculating the local electric field, the wrapped structure of paper and impregnating oil needs to be taken into account. This gives information that is lost when the insulation is treated as a single, homogeneous material, which is done when the macro-scopic electric field is calculated.We have modeled mass-impregnated cable insulation with finite element analysis software and subsequently calculated the local electric field with the finite element method. The wrapped structure of paper and impregnating oil was taken into account.In our model, the magnitude of the local field in the paper was up to twice as high as the magnitude of the macroscopic field. Field enhancements came from oilfilled butt gaps, and particularly from their edges. The geometry of the insulation influenced the magnitude of the field enhancements.
Application of a simple method for determining the equilibrium resistivity of dielectric luiquids
Authors: Schiessling Joachim , Lavesson Nils , Walfridsson Lars
Published: October 2017

For the design of the electrical insulation of an UHVDC (Ultra High Voltage Direct Current) converter transformer the resistivity of the pressboard and mineral oil has to be known. For solid insulation the resistivity is virtually constant, however, in liquids it is dependent on, e.g., applied electric stress and time of electrification. Several methods are discussed in the standards. One way to characterize the oil is the measurement of the equilibrium resistivity, in contrast to an apparent resistivity for oil under high electric stress. Measurements using a low voltage triangular shaped voltage form allow calculation of equilibrium resistivity. The oils investigated show equilibrium resistivity in the range 5E11 Ohm·m to 5.96E12 Ohm·m, which are typical values for transformer oil. There is good agreement between these results and  reference measurements using dielectric response
Electrical Conductivity and Moisture Uptake Studies of Low Density Polyethylene Octylnanosilica Composite
Authors: Virtanen S. , Vaughan A.S. , Yang S. , Saiz F. , Quirke N.
Published: October 2017

In this paper, we report on the time dependent DC-conductivity response at constant electric field of unfilled low density polyethylene (LDPE) and its composites containing untreated and octylsilane treated silica in ambient and dry atmospheres. The conductivity of both composites decrease with time under dry conditions and increase with time in ambient atmosphere. The dielectric response of dry and wet silica polyethylene composites is studied by dielectric spectroscopy.
Lightning impulse (LI) breakdown testing of a rubber-epoxy interface
Authors: Forssén Cecilia , Christerson Anne , Borg Daniel
Published: October 2017

The lightning impulse (LI) breakdown strength of a rubber-epoxy interface was measured using a test cell developed earlier for AC breakdown testing. The electrically active length of the rubber-epoxy interface in the test cell was about 10 mm. The rubber was compressed and the pressure in the rubber-epoxy interface was controlled and measured. It was shown that the test cell performed well under LI breakdown testing with the majority of the breakdowns located at the rubber-epoxy interface as desired and not in the bulk insulation. A higher LI breakdown strength was obtained for smoother epoxy surfaces.
Reconfiguration of 3 MV Marx Generator into a Modern High Efficiency System
Authors: Klüss Joni , Larzelere William
Published: October 2017

High voltage impulse generators are intended to last for long periods of time. Upon reaching the end of their technical lifetime, decisions concerning decommissioning, replacement, refurbishment or upgrading are needed. A new generator is a considerable investment. Significant reductions in material and labor costs can be made by repurposing still functional elements of the existing generator and redesigning the circuit for higher efficiency requiring fewer components. This paper describes the process of refurbishing the Mississippi State University (MSU) High Voltage Laboratory 3 MV, 56 kJ impulse generator originally built in 1962 into a modern digital impulse generator system.
Gas measurements as a mean for identification of Partial Discharges in XLPE HV cable insulation
Authors: Janus Patrick , Edin Hans , Selva Kruphalan Tamil
Published: October 2017

Partial Discharges (PD) on high-voltage alternating current (HVAC) cables insulated with cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) has a low occurrence, but consequences are usually severe since PD ultimately results in cable failures. Up until now the only efficient way to monitor HVAC cables for PD has been to install large coupling devices which are able to measure PDs directly from the power cables in order to verify if they are fault-free. These installations, usually of a temporary nature, are troublesome for several reasons like safety issues, measurement uncertainty, labor intensity etc. For the purpose to ultimately create a system that is able to be utilized for PD Detection by means of gas analysis, which is easily applicable in on site, on-line conditions, initial experiments were performed in order to investigate basic material properties of XLPE and to investigate the performance of tin oxide (SnO2) sensors for such an application. For this purpose a specialized test cell was developed in order to be able to investigate different conditions which can be expected in a cable insulation system.It was found from the experiments that surface discharges are detectable by means of gas analysis and that these gases penetrate an XLPE sample. It was also demonstrated that the SnO2 based sensor system displays a good selectivity to the gases emitted by PD and remain inert towards other gases emitted from XLPE samples.
DC Conductivity Measurements of LDPE: Influence of Specimen Preparation Method and Polymer Morphology
Authors: Karlsson M. , Xu Xiangdong , Gaska K. , Hillborg Henrik , Gubanski Stanislaw , Gedde U.W.
Published: October 2017

DC conductivity measurements are important for gaining fundamental understanding of conduction mechanisms of insulation materials, as well as in the development of HVDC power system components, such as extruded cable systems. In this study, the influence of sample processing on the morphology and DC conductivity of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) has been studied. Direct compression moulding of LDPE pellets is commonly used in research laboratories for obtaining plaque samples, whereas extrusion is an additional commonly used technique for dispersion of particles in nanocomposites prior to the compression moulding process. In this study LDPE plaques have been obtained by either compression moulding directly from pellets, or by extrusion followed by compression moulding. The morphology obtained in the first case consisted of banded spherulites, whereas the latter method yielded a morphology of small axialites. The difference in sample processing had also an impact on the DC conductivity. The DC conductivity at 22 ­ºC and 3.3 kV/mm was of the order of 4xE-18 S/m for the plaques obtained by extrusion and compression moulding whereas the plaques obtained by direct compression moulding exhibited a conductivity of 1xE-16 S/m. In addition, the reproducibility of the performed DC conductivity measurements was also verified in a round robin test performed between the Royal Institute of Technology and Chalmers Technical University.
Faculty Perspectives in Saudi Arabia Pertaining to Attributes of Successful Universities and Future Learning Environments
Authors: Kutbi Ibrahim , Hashim Khairuddin
Published: October 2017

Universities face the challenge of being relevant. This study investigates respondents’ perspectives pertaining to attributes of successful universities and future learning environments. Data were collected using a specially designed survey during the 2016 academic year. The sample size was 518 King Abdulaziz University (KAU) academics. The results highlight critical attributes, management elements and dominant pedagogical and technological trends. The paper also reports significant differences between gender, discipline and years of experience sub-groups. The findings identify key themes, trends and perspectives that can be used as foundation for more in-depth research to discern possible strategies towards achieving success.
WITHDRAWN: Efficacy of thermobalancing therapy for chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome, confirmed by clinical study, may suggest etiology and pathophysiology of this disease
Authors: Allen Simon , Aghajanyan Ivan Gerasimovich
Published: October 2017

N/A
Montreal electronic artificial urinary sphincters: Our futuristic alternatives to the AMS800™
Authors: Biardeau Xavier , Hached Sami , Loutochin Oleg , Campeau Lysanne , Sawan Mohamad , Corcos Jacques
Published: October 2017

Introduction: We aimed to present three novel remotely controlled hydromechanical artificial urinary sphincters (AUSs) and report their in-vitro and ex-vivo results.Methods: We successively developed three distinct hydromechanical AUSs on the basis of the existing AMS800™ device by incorporating an electronic pump. No changes were made to the cuff and balloon. The AUS#1 was designed as an electromagnetically controlled device. The AUS#2 and AUS#3 were conceived as Bluetooth 2.1 remotely controlled and Bluetooth 4.0 remotelycontrolled, adaptive devices, respectively. In-vitro experiments profiled occlusive cuff pressure (OCP) during a complete device cycle, with different predetermined OCP. Ex-vivo experiments were performed on a fresh pig bladder with 4 cm cuff placed around the urethra. Leak point pressure with different predetermined OCP values was successively measured during cystometry via a catheter at the bladder dome.Results: Our in-vitro and ex-vivo experiments demonstrated that these three novel AUSs provided stable and predetermined OCP — within the physiological range — and completely deflated the cuff, when required, in a limited time compatible with physiological voiding cycles.Conclusions: Our three novel, remotely controlled AUSs showed promising results that should be confirmed by in-vivo experiments focusing on efficacy and safety.
APPLYING A Q-GRAM BASED MULTIPLE STRING MATCHING ALGORITHM FOR APPROXIMATE MATCHING
Authors: Susik Robert
Published: October 2017

We consider the application of multiple pattern matching (Multi AOSO on q-Grams) algorithm for approximate pattern matching. We propose the on-line approach which translates the problem from approximate pattern matching into a multiple pattern one (called partitioning into exact search). Presented solution allows relatively fast search multiple patterns in text with given k-differences(or mismatches). This paper presents comparison of solution based on MAG algorithm, and [4]. Experiments on DNA, English, Proteins and XML texts with up to k errors show that the new proposed
algorithm achieves relatively good results in practical use.
ALTERNATIVE TERMINATION CRITERION FOR K-SPECIFIED CRISP DATA CLUSTERING ALGORITHMS
Authors: Mosorov Volodymyr , Panskyi Taras , Biedron Sebastian
Published: October 2017

In this paper the analysis of k-specified (namely k-means) crisp data partitioning pre-clustering algorithm’s termination criterion performance is described. The results have been analyzed using the clustering validity indices. Termination criterion allows analyzing data with any number of clusters. Moreover, introduced criterion in contrast to the known validity indices enables to analyze data that make up one cluster.
Evaluation of the Efficacy of a Onetime Injectable Dexamethasone Administered Orally in the Pediatric Emergency Department for Asthma Exacerbation
Authors: McCallister Ashley , So Tsz-Yin , Stewart Josh
Published: October 2017

OBJECTIVE

This study assessed the efficacy of injectable dexamethasone administered orally in pediatric patients who presented to the emergency department with asthma exacerbation.

METHODS

This was a retrospective study of patients 0 to 18 years of age who presented to and who were directly discharged from the emergency department at Moses H. Cone Memorial Hospital between September 1, 2012, and September 30, 2015, for the diagnosis of asthma or asthma exacerbation. Patients had to receive a onetime dose of injectable dexamethasone orally prior to discharge. Patients were followed for a 30-day period to identify the number of asthma relapses.

RESULTS

Ninety-nine patients were included in this study. The average weight-based dose ± SD of dexamethasone was 0.35 ± 0.18 mg/kg (range, 0.08–0.62 mg/kg) and the actual dose ± SD was 10.58 ± 1.92 mg (range, 5–16 mg). Over a 30-day period, 6 patients (6%) had one repeated emergency department visit, 6 patients (6%) were admitted to the hospital, and 3 patients (3%) presented to an outpatient clinic for asthma-related symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

Injectable dexamethasone administered orally may be an efficacious treatment for asthma exacerbation in pediatric patients. A randomized control trial comparing injectable dexamethasone administered orally to other dexamethasone formulations/routes of administration should be performed to adequately assess the bioequivalence and effectiveness of the former formulation.
Improving Palivizumab Compliance Through a Pharmacist-Managed RSV Prevention Clinic
Authors: Chow Jennifer W. , Chicella Michael F. , Christensen Anthony M. , Moneymaker Carolyn S. , Harrington John , Dice James E.
Published: October 2017

OBJECTIVES

Palivizumab is a monoclonal antibody approved for the prevention of serious lower respiratory tract infections caused by respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in high-risk pediatric patients. While palivizumab is more effective if used correctly, compliance with the monthly dosing is suboptimal. We established a pharmacist-managed RSV prevention clinic in an effort to improve compliance. The primary objective of this study was to determine the impact of a pharmacist-managed RSV prevention clinic on palivizumab compliance.

METHODS

A chart review was performed. Patients who received palivizumab between September 2009 and April 2012 were identified. Compliance was determined as the number of patients who received eligible doses at 28- to 30-day intervals, consecutively.

RESULTS

One hundred seventy-two patients received at least 1 dose of palivizumab. An average of 92% of patients who received at least 1 dose subsequently received all doses of palivizumab during the RSV season. Of those, 88% received all eligible doses in consecutive 28-to 30-day intervals.

CONCLUSION

A pharmacist-managed RSV prevention clinic can assist physicians in the prevention of RSV by increasing compliance with palivizumab dosing.
Vancomycin Dosing in Pediatric Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation: Potential Impacts of New Technologies
Authors: Lonabaugh Kevin P. , Lunsford Kelly J. , Fang Gary Y. , Kaufman David A. , Addison Samuel D. , Buck Marcia L.
Published: October 2017

OBJECTIVES

The objective of the current study was to evaluate the doses of vancomycin used to obtain therapeutic drug concentrations in pediatric patients on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), using new ECMO technologies.

METHODS

This was a single-center, retrospective study of patients treated with vancomycin while receiving ECMO using low-volume circuit technology.

RESULTS

A total of 28 patients were included in the analysis of the primary endpoint. Patients had a median age of 6 weeks (0–11 years) and a median weight of 3.45 kg (2.44–37.2 kg). Ultrafiltration was used in 89.3% of patients at initiation of ECMO regardless of baseline renal function, resulting in a median urine output of 2 mL/kg/hr at the time of the final vancomycin dose. Most patients started vancomycin at the same time as ECMO. The median total daily dose was 30 mg/kg/day. The median total daily dose in a subset of patients less than one year of age was 20 mg/kg/day. Nearly all patients had at least 1 therapeutic trough serum vancomycin concentration. A total of 16 patients completed their vancomycin course using an interval of every 12 hours or shorter. Half-life was calculated in a subset of 11 patients and the mean was found to be 12.3 ± 2.8 hours.

CONCLUSIONS

An initial dosing interval of every 12 hours to provide a total daily dose of 30 mg/kg/day is a possible option in pediatric patients on ECMO provided that renal function is normal at baseline. Monitoring of serum vancomycin concentrations for adjustment of dosing is required throughout therapy and is still warranted.