bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Resource-efficient wireless sensor network architecture based on bio-mimicry of the mammalian auditory system
Authors: Peckens Courtney A , Lynch Jerome P , Heo Gwanghee
Published: February 2014

While wireless sensor networks have been successfully deployed on a variety of civil infrastructure systems for structural monitoring, past studies have shown that there is room for improvement in terms of network robustness and overall resource consumption efficiency. The mechanisms employed by biological nervous systems (e.g. signal modulation, communication, and integration) can be used as inspiration for overcoming the performance bottlenecks seen in existing wireless sensor nodes and networks. The mammalian auditory system is of particular interest due to its unique signal decomposition techniques (performed by the cochlea) that enable real-time processing of complex sound signals. In this article, a novel wireless sensor architecture based on the operational principles of cochlea is described. The performance of the proposed sensor is validated on a single-degree-of-freedom structure that is excited by seismic ground motion signals, thus demonstrating its real-time monitoring capabilities while maintaining high data compression rates.
Microplane modeling of shape memory alloy tubes under tension, torsion, and proportional tension–torsion loading
Authors: Mehrabi Reza , Kadkhodaei Mahmoud , Taheri Andani Masood , Elahinia Mohammad
Published: February 2014

In this study, a three-dimensional thermomechanical constitutive model based on the microplane theory is proposed to simulate the behavior of shape memory alloy tubes. The three-dimensional model is implemented in ABAQUS by employing a user material subroutine. In order to validate the model, the numerical results of this approach are compared with new experimental findings for a NiTi superelastic torque tube under tension, pure torsion, and proportional tension–torsion performed in stress- and strain-controlled manners. The numerical and experimental results are in agreement indicating the capability of the proposed microplane model in capturing the behavior of shape memory alloy tubes. This model is capable of predicting both superelasticity and shape memory effect by providing closed-form relationships for calculating the strain components in terms of the stress components.
Numerical solution of some boundary value problems in nonlinear magneto-elasticity
Authors: Salas E , Bustamante R
Published: February 2014

In the context of the theory of nonlinear magneto-elastic deformations, the problem of the extension (shortening) of a cylinder of finite length under the influence of a magnetic field applied far away in free space is studied. The boundary value problem is solved using the finite element method. There exist exact solutions for the problem, which are based on the assumption of working with infinitely long cylinders. In this communication, results are obtained for different relations between the radius of the cylinder and its length, comparing the results for the magnetic field between short and long cylinders. As well as this, the influence of applying such external traction through the direct contact with an external machine has been studied.
Vibration control of two-connected piezoelectric flexible plate using nonlinear algorithm and T-S fuzzy controller
Authors: Qiu Zhi-cheng , Ling De-fang , Zhang Xian-min , Han Jian-da
Published: February 2014

This article focuses on the active vibration control of a kind of two-connected piezoelectric flexible plate. A finite element model of the connected plate integrated with distributed piezoelectric sensors and actuators is derived, including bending and torsional vibrations. In this model, two connected hinges are simplified as regular plate elements to facilitate the system. A modified optimization method based on the energy dissipation rate is used for the optimal placement of piezoelectric sensors and actuators. The bending and torsional vibrations of the two-connected plate can be decoupled on measurement and driving control, due to the appropriate placement of the lead zirconate titanate sensors and actuators. The proportional and derivative control, the proposed nonlinear controller, and T-S fuzzy control algorithms are applied to suppress the bending and torsional vibrations of the two-connected plate. The numerical simulation and experimental results demonstrate that the last two control algorithms can suppress the low-order bending and torsional vibration more effectively than that of the designed proportional and derivative control algorithm.
A modified nonlinear fatigue damage accumulation model
Authors: Lv Zhiqiang , Huang Hong-Zhong , Zhu Shun-Peng , Gao Huiying , Zuo Fangjun
Published: February 2014

This paper presents a modified nonlinear fatigue damage accumulation model accounting for load interaction effects. The original model is based on physical property degradation of materials, from which the load interaction effects are ignored. However, the load interaction effects have a significant influence on the fatigue life. In the study, by analyzing five damage models, a load interaction parameter is obtained and added to the original model. Experimental work is then carried out to verify the modified model of four categories of experimental data from smooth and notch specimens under two-level stress loading. Moreover, comparison is made among the results calculated by the test data, the Miner’s rule, the original model, and the modified model.
The romance of the lowly clerk: recognizing the tradition of office intellectualism
Authors: Schoneboom Abigail
Published: February 2014

This article examines a literary tradition that promotes clerkdom as a refuge for sensitive writers and intellectuals. Recent scholarly work on the role of the novel in organization studies often treats the novel as something that might be introduced to employees by well-meaning scholars as a means of generating insight into their circumstances. In contrast, this study positions workplace literature as spontaneously discovered by, and largely produced by, office workers themselves as part of a tradition of office intellectualism. Focusing on the rich interface between the office and literature, this creative process is understood to be ongoing and self-sustaining, morphing alongside technological change into forms such as the blog. The article argues that the intellectual lives of workers deserve greater attention, positing high literature on lowly clerks as a rich soil that nurtures today’s over-educated office denizens.
Thermal, mechanical and tribological performance of polymer composites rubbed against polymer composites in application in electrical contact breakers
Authors: Unal H , Saylan T , Mimaroglu A
Published: February 2014

In this investigation, the thermal, mechanical properties and tribological performance of polyamide 6 composites filled up to 30 wt% mica is studied. The dry friction and wear tests of 30 wt% mica-filled polyamide 6 rubbed against 30 wt% mica-filled polyamide 6 and 30% glass fiber reinforced polyamide 6 polymer composite's discs were carried using a pin-on-disc test rig. Test's conditions were room temperature, applied load values of 20 N, 30 N and 40 N and at 0.5 m/s sliding speed. The results show an announced influence on mica content on the coefficient of friction and specific wear rate values of polyamide 6 composites. The results also show the influence of mica content on the mechanical properties, glassy transient temperature Tg and the melting temperature Tm of polyamide 6 polymer.
A duty of candour: A change in approach
Authors: Mellor Christopher
Published: February 2014

This article (written in April 2013) considers the observations and recommendations made in the Report of the Mid Staffordshire NHS Foundation Trust Public Inquiry as to a duty of candour and, in particular, the recommendation that there should be a statutory duty of candour imposed on healthcare providers, as well as on registered medical practitioners, nurses and other registered professionals, who believe or suspect that patient treatment or care has caused death or serious injury. The article details the Government's initial response to such recommendations, in which it indicated an intention to introduce a statutory duty for health and care providers, and sets out the contractual duty of candour that is currently included in the NHS Standard Contract for 2013/14 (SC35). There is then an analysis of the terms of the contractual duty contrasted with those of the proposed statutory duty; a look at the limitations of the contractual duty; a discussion of some of the issues that may arise in relation to when the relevant duty (either contractual or statutory) will be triggered; a consideration of the apparent novelty of a statutory duty of candour in English law; and a brief discussion in relation to the potential remedies, penalties and offences that may be adopted if such a statutory duty comes into force. In conclusion, on any basis the imposition of the contractual duty of candour and the intention to introduce some form of statutory duty heralds a new era in relation to candour in healthcare.
Misinterpretation of facial expressions of emotion in verbal adults with autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Eack Shaun M , Mazefsky Carla A , Minshew Nancy J
Published: February 2014

Facial emotion perception is significantly affected in autism spectrum disorder, yet little is known about how individuals with autism spectrum disorder misinterpret facial expressions that result in their difficulty in accurately recognizing emotion in faces. This study examined facial emotion perception in 45 verbal adults with autism spectrum disorder and 30 age- and gender-matched volunteers without autism spectrum disorder to identify patterns of emotion misinterpretation during face processing that contribute to emotion recognition impairments in autism. Results revealed that difficulty distinguishing emotional from neutral facial expressions characterized much of the emotion perception impairments exhibited by participants with autism spectrum disorder. In particular, adults with autism spectrum disorder uniquely misinterpreted happy faces as neutral, and were significantly more likely than typical volunteers to attribute negative valence to nonemotional faces. The over-attribution of emotions to neutral faces was significantly related to greater communication and emotional intelligence impairments in individuals with autism spectrum disorder. These findings suggest a potential negative bias toward the interpretation of facial expressions and may have implications for interventions designed to remediate emotion perception in autism spectrum disorder.
A modified laparoscopic ureterolithotomy by pulling ureter with Carter–Thomason fascial closure and ureter incision by broken 15th blade
Authors: Choi H. , Kim J. H. , Park J. Y. , Shim J. S. , Bae J. H.
Published: February 2014

Background and Aims:

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of a modified laparoscopic ureterolithotomy for the treatment of upper ureteral stones; this method involved the use of a Carter–Thomason fascial closure device, a broken 15th blade.

Material and Methods:

From February 2009 to December 2012, 38 patients with unilateral upper ureteral stones were examined and classified into 2 groups: one group underwent conventional laparoscopic ureterolithotomy (n = 21) and the other group underwent modified laparoscopic ureterolithotomy (n = 17). The modified laparoscopic ureterolithotomy consisted of the use of a Carter–Thomason fascial closure to extract the black silk along with the nylon tape. The ureter incision was made with a modified instrument consisting of a needle holder with a broken 15th blade tip.

Results and Conclusions:

Patient demographics were similar in both groups. No significant differences were detected between the conventional laparoscopic ureterolithotomy and modified laparoscopic ureterolithotomy groups with respect to operating time, estimated blood loss, and stone clearance rates. Drain-indwelling times were significantly shorter in modified laparoscopic ureterolithotomy patients than in conventional laparoscopic ureterolithotomy patients (3.2 ± 1.3 vs 4.7 ± 1.5 days). Hospital stay was significantly lesser in modified laparoscopic ureterolithotomy patients than in conventional laparoscopic ureterolithotomy patients (4.3 ± 1.2 vs 5.2 ± 1.2 days). No differences were detected in the ureteral stent indwelling time for the two groups. The use of the Carter–Thomason fascial closure facilitated ureter handling, and the use of a needle holder with a broken 15th blade tip enabled a sharp and precise ureteral incision. Our method allows early removal of the drain and thus earlier patient discharge.
A mixed methods pilot study to investigate the impact of a hospital-specific iPhone application (iTreat) within a British junior doctor cohort
Authors: Payne Karl FB , Weeks Lucy , Dunning Paul
Published: February 2014

We present a pilot study to investigate the impact of introducing a hospital-specific smartphone application into a cohort of British junior doctors. We created the iPhone application ‘iTreat’ that contained disease management and antibiotic dosing guidelines specific to our hospital, together with a postgraduate education department really simple syndication feed, a contact number phonebook and a favourites section. This intervention was trialled in a group of 39 foundation grade junior doctors, in a UK hospital, for a time period of 4 months. Mixed methods data capture, utilising survey and semi-structured interviews, was used to evaluate application usage patterns and potential barriers to endorsement of smartphone technology in the hospital setting. Sixty eight per cent of participants felt the application saved them time during clinical activities, with a decrease in the frequency of participants not referring to hospital clinical guidelines. The findings from this pilot study point towards the internal hospital environment as having a major impact upon smartphone usage. Participants viewed smartphone use as unprofessional in the ward-based setting, with a perceived negative attitude from other healthcare staff. An understanding of how healthcare staff choose to utilise smartphones in the clinical environment is crucial to enable the successful assimilation of smartphone technology into the hospital setting. This pilot study provides experience and parameters for future substantive studies being carried out by this group.
Analysis of mobile health applications for a broad spectrum of consumers: A user experience approach
Authors: García-Gómez Juan M , de la Torre-Díez Isabel , Vicente Javier , Robles Montserrat , López-Coronado Miguel , Rodrigues Joel J
Published: February 2014

Mobile health (m-health) apps can bring health prevention and promotion to the general population. The main purpose of this article is to analyze different m-health apps for a broad spectrum of consumers by means of three different experiences. This goal was defined following the strategic documents generated by the main prospective observatories of Information and Communications Technology for health. After a general exploration of the app markets, we analyze the entries of three specific themes focused in this article: type 2 diabetes, obesity, and breast-feeding. The user experiences reported in this study mostly cover the segments of (1) chronically monitored consumers through a Web mobile app for predicting type 2 diabetes (Diab_Alert app), (2) information seekers through a mobile app for maternity (Lactation app) and partially (3) the motivated healthy consumers through a mobile app for a dietetic monitoring and assessment (SapoFit app). These apps were developed by the authors of this work.
The Ubiquity of Hidden Shame in Modernity
Authors: Scheff Thomas
Published: February 2014

This essay proposes that shame may be one of the keys to understanding our civilization: shame or its anticipation is virtually ubiquitous, yet, at the same time, usually invisible. Since the vernacular term for shame is wildly ambiguous, a tentative definition is proposed. C.H. Cooley’s idea of the looking-glass self implies that shame and pride can be seen as signals of the state of the social bond. Theoretical work by Cooley and Erving Goffman imply ubiquity, and empirical studies by Norbert Elias and by Helen Lewis provide support. Elias’s and Lewis’s findings also suggest that shame is usually invisible; Elias stated this proposition explicitly. Furthermore, like other emotions, such as fear, shame can be recursive, acting back on itself (shame about shame). In some circumstances, limitless recursion of shame may explain extreme cases of silence or violence. To the extent that these ideas hold true, there would be an urgent need to apply them to many of our most crucial social and political problems.
Impact of a central venous line care bundle on rates of central line associated blood stream infection (CLABSI) in hospitalised children
Authors: Melville Sara , Paulus Stéphane
Published: February 2014

Central line associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) reduction programmes in hospitalised children have been focused in the intensive care setting and little data is available on the efficacy and cost effectiveness of such programmes in other clinical areas. Prospective monitoring of hospital acquired CLABSI rates in all clinical areas was performed at Alder Hey Children’s Hospital for a period of three years following the implementation of a central venous line (CVL) care bundle. We observed a decrease in CLABSI rates from 220 in the first year following intervention to 108 per 100,000 patient days ( p=0.002) in the third year of the study, demonstrating a decrease of over 50% in CLABSI rates. Blood culture contamination rates were also significantly reduced. The introduction of a CVL care bundle produced a significant, sustainable reduction in hospital acquired CLABSI rates in a children’s hospital setting.
Patient-reported outcomes after prostate cancer treatment
Authors: Grover Surbhi , Metz James M , Vachani Carolyn , Hampshire Margaret K , DiLullo Gloria A , Hill-Kayser Christine
Published: February 2014

Objective:

Our aim was to understand patient-reported toxicities resulting from treatment of prostate cancer using various different modalities that have similar oncological endpoints.

Methods and materials:

An Internet-based survivorship care plan tool was used to collect patient-reported toxicity data for men who had undergone prostate cancer treatment.

Results:

A total of 127 users of the survivorship care plan tool reported to have been treated for prostate cancer. The median age of the patients at diagnosis in this group was 60 years (range = 25–74 years) and median time since diagnosis was 4 years (range 1–15 years); 61 (48%) received radiation as primary treatment, 44 (35%) received surgery as primary treatment and 22 (17%) received both surgery and radiation (adjuvant or salvage). Hormonal treatment was given to 50 (39%) patients. Some 15% (7/48) in the radiation group versus 50% (21/42) in the surgery group ( p < 0.001) developed urinary incontinence; 61% (33/54) in the radiation group and 86% (37/43) in the surgery group ( p = 0.02) reported having erectile dysfunction since treatment. Most users (84%) had not been offered a survivorship care plan previously.

Conclusion:

Men with prostate cancer experience significant urinary and sexual sequelae from treatment regardless of the modality used. Patients treated with surgery reported more urinary and sexual side effects than those treated with radiation. The majority of these men are not offered a survivorship care plan to deal with these long-term effects. Survivorship planning tools to assess such side effects and design long-term individualized plans are essential for all prostate cancer patients.
Land Institutions Divided India Economically
Authors: Rathakrishnan L. , Kumar K. Ravi
Published: February 2014

Many researchers argue that the green revolution brought food grain security and economic reform brought wealth and prosperity to the country, but this increased prosperity is not uniform across regions. They failed to identify the negativity in the economy for divergence across regions. We argue in this paper that inequality between regions in the Indian economy is not a recent phenomenon but an inherent problem in the economy due to weak land institutions, which is diverging across regions. British colonial power was responsible for establishing extractive land institutions and we, the people of India, responsible for the failure to establish inclusive land institutions. The economic reform is the reason for fast divergence across regions due to the high growth rate, and lack of reforms in land institutions is responsible for the economic divide. There is no visible activity in land institutions, except land records computerization, to make land institutions compatible for a market-driven economy.
In Pursuit of Development
Authors: Roy Animesh
Published: February 2014

This article examines the mechanism of land acquisition executed by the previous Government of West Bengal in Singur and Rajarhat in the name development under the purview of public purposes. The study shows that the government has diluted several existing legal provisions laid down in Land Acquisition Act (LAA) 1894 and policy guidelines of National Policy for Rehabilitation and Resettlement 2003 and 2007. Procedural amendments of legal provisions and new enactments brought about by the state government in the orbit of LAA have made the acquisition easy going rather than bestowing privilege upon farming community. The policy intervention toward rehabilitating dispossessed households has been substandard and not inclusive in nature.
Study on electropolished/anodised aluminium foil before and after dyeing
Authors: Rezagholi H. , Zangeneh-Madar K. , Mirjani M. , Ahangarkani M.
Published: February 2014

In this research, the effect of electropolishing on the surface quality of the anodised/dyed aluminium foil was investigated. For this purpose, morphology and luminosity of the anodised/dyed foils as well as the electropolished/anodised/dyed ones were studied by optical microscopy, stereo microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy and Photoshop software. The results show that the median of Photoshop/histogram/blue colour for the electropolished/anodised/dyed foils (170–193) is more than the anodised/dyed foil (169). It is also found that electropolishing pretreatment reduces average roughness Ra of the anodised/dyed aluminium foils (from 11·22 to 2·30 nm).
Applications of evolving technologies in sleep medicine
Authors: Verbraecken Johan
Published: February 2014

Nocturnal polysomnography (PSG) is the most important laboratory technique in the management of sleep–wake disturbances and is considered the “gold standard” [1]. New sensor technologies are entering the field, and rapid development in telecommunications and mobile technology has accelerated the introduction of telemedicine as a viable and reliable option [2]. The present broad review is an amalgam of the current knowledge with proposed new sensors and remote control. The reader should note that not all of the techniques discussed here have strong clinical validation, and this should be considered when purchasing equipment.
Psychological stress induced zinc accumulation and up-regulation of ZIP14 and metallothionein in rat liver
Authors: Tian Xue , Zheng Yuanyuan , Li Yingjie , Shen Zhilei , Tao Liping , Dou Xiao , Qian Jianxin , Shen Hui
Published: February 2014

Background

Zinc is necessary for normal liver function; and vice versa, the liver plays a central role in zinc homeostasis. The aim of present study is to assess the effects of repeated psychological stress (PS) on the zinc metabolism and related mechanism involved in zinc homeostasis in rat liver.

Methods

In present study, we used communication box to create PS model and investigated the serum corticosterone (CORT), zinc level in serum and liver, liver metallothionein (MT) content and ZRT/IRT-like Protein 14 (ZIP14) mRNA expression.

Results

The results showed that the serum CORT level increased and serum zinc level decreased significantly after 7 d and 14 d PS treatment. Meanwhile, zinc and MT contents in liver were elevated after 14 d PS exposure, while those in 7 d PS exposure group did not change. ZIP14 mRNA was expressed markedly at 7 d after the onset of PS, while Zip14 mRNA expression in the liver after 14 d PS exposure reached normal level compared with control group.

Conclusions

The results suggest that PS exposure could induce hypozincemia, which might be related to liver zinc accumulation because of high level of MT through glucocorticoid-mediated MT synthesis and ZIP14 expression induced by interleukin-6.
The epidemiology of gastrointestinal stromal tumors in Taiwan, 1998–2008: a nation-wide cancer registry-based study
Authors: Chiang Nai-Jung , Chen Li-Tzong , Tsai Chia-Rung , Chang Jeffrey S
Published: February 2014

Background

To investigate the incidence of gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) in Taiwan and the impact of imatinib on the overall survival (OS) of GIST patients.

Methods

GISTs were identified from the Taiwan Cancer Registry (TCR) from 1998 to 2008. The age-adjusted incidence rates and the observed OS rates were calculated. Cox proportional hazards models were applied to examine the mortality risk in three time periods (1998–2001, 2002–2004, 2005–2008) according to the application and availability of imatinib.

Results

From 1998 to 2008, 2,986 GISTs were diagnosed in Taiwan. The incidence increased from 1.13 per 100,000 in 1998 to 1.97 per 100,000 in 2008. The most common sites were stomach (47-59%), small intestine (31-38%), and colon/rectum (6-9%). The 5-year observed OS was 66.5% (60.3% for men, 74.2% for women, P < .0001). GISTs in the stomach had a better 5-year observed OS (69.4%) than those in the small intestine (65.1%) (P < .0001). The outcome of GIST improved significantly after the more widespread use of imatinib; the 5-year observed OS increased from 58.9% during 1998–2001 to 70.2% during 2005–2008 (P < .0001). Younger age, female sex, stomach location, and later diagnostic years were independent predictors of a better survival.

Conclusions

The incidence of GIST has been increasing in Taiwan, partially due to the advancement of diagnostic technology/method and the increased awareness by physicians. The outcome of GIST has improved significantly with the availability and the wider use of imatinib.
Metal-particle-induced enhancement of the photoluminescence from biomolecule-functionalized carbon nanotubes
Authors: Kim Se-Jin , Park June , Jeong Yuhyun , Go Hayoung , Lee Kangseok , Hong Seunghun , Seong Maeng-Je
Published: February 2014

The effect of metal particles on the photoluminescence (PL) and the Raman spectra of functionalized SWCNTs in aqueous solutions was systematically investigated by studying three different metal particles (gold, cobalt, and nickel) on three different SWCNT suspensions (DNA-, RNA-, and sodium deoxycholate salt (DOC)-functionalized SWCNTs). Substantial enhancement of the PL intensities was observed, while the Raman spectra remained unchanged, after gold, cobalt, or nickel particles were introduced into RNA-SWCNT aqueous suspensions. Almost the same results were obtained after the same metal particles were added to DNA-SWCNT aqueous suspensions. However, both the PL and the Raman spectra did not exhibit any change at all after the same metal particles were introduced into DOC-SWCNT aqueous suspensions. The unusual PL enhancements observed in this work cannot be accounted for by the three well-known mechanisms in the literature: surface-enhanced Raman scattering effect, Förster resonance energy transfer in a rebundling of isolated SWCNTs, and pH changes of the aqueous solutions.
A case of purpura fulminans caused by Hemophilus influenzae complicated by reversible cardiomyopathy
Authors: Endo Akira , Shiraishi Atsushi , Aiboshi Junichi , Hayashi Yoshiro , Otomo Yasuhiro
Published: February 2014

Here, we report a case of a 41-year-old male diagnosed as septic shock with purpura fulminans (PF) infection. The causative organism was β-lactamase-negative ampicillin-resistantHemophilus influenzae. He developed fulminant cardiac dysfunction approximately 1 h after admission, and the cause was considered to be septic cardiomyopathy. Blood pressure and oxygenation were maintained at adequate levels with the aid of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). The cardiac dysfunction was reversible, and he was successfully weaned from ECMO on day 12 of hospitalization. However, he needed amputation for all extremities because the infection spread to his limbs and eventually, succumbed to sepsis caused by empyema on day 34 of hospitalization. To the best of our knowledge, this is only the second case of PF caused byH. influenzaein an adult to be reported worldwide.
Sall1 balances self-renewal and differentiation of renal progenitor cells
Authors: Basta Jeannine M. , Robbins Lynn , Kiefer Susan M. , Dorsett Dale , Rauchman Michael
Published: February 2014

The formation of the proper number of functional nephrons requires a delicate balance between renal progenitor cell self-renewal and differentiation. The molecular factors that regulate the dramatic expansion of the progenitor cell pool and differentiation of these cells into nephron precursor structures (renal vesicles) are not well understood. Here we show that Sall1, a nuclear transcription factor, is required to maintain the stemness of nephron progenitor cells. Transcriptional profiling of Sall1 mutant cells revealed a striking pattern, marked by the reduction of progenitor genes and amplified expression of renal vesicle differentiation genes. These global changes in gene expression were accompanied by ectopic differentiation at E12.5 and depletion of Six2+Cited1+ cap mesenchyme progenitor cells. These findings highlight a novel role for Sall1 in maintaining the stemness of the progenitor cell pool by restraining their differentiation into renal vesicles.
The neural crest cell cycle is related to phases of migration in the head
Authors: Ridenour Dennis A. , McLennan Rebecca , Teddy Jessica M. , Semerad Craig L. , Haug Jeffrey S. , Kulesa Paul M.
Published: February 2014

Embryonic cells that migrate long distances must critically balance cell division in order to maintain stream dynamics and population of peripheral targets. Yet details of individual cell division events and how cell cycle is related to phases of migration remain unclear. Here, we examined these questions using the chick cranial neural crest (NC). In vivo time-lapse imaging revealed that a typical migrating NC cell division event lasted ∼1 hour and included four stereotypical steps. Cell tracking showed that dividing NC cells maintained position relative to non-dividing neighbors. NC cell division orientation and the time and distance to first division after neural tube exit were stochastic. To address how cell cycle is related to phases of migration, we used FACs analysis to identify significant spatiotemporal differences in NC cell cycle profiles. Two-photon photoconversion of single and small numbers of mKikGR-labeled NC cells confirmed that lead NC cells exhibited a nearly fourfold faster doubling time after populating the branchial arches. By contrast, Ki-67 staining showed that one out of every five later emerging NC cells exited the cell cycle after reaching proximal head targets. The relatively quiescent mitotic activity during NC cell migration to the branchial arches was altered when premigratory cells were reduced in number by tissue ablation. Together, our results provide the first comprehensive details of the pattern and dynamics of cell division events during cranial NC cell migration.
Transcription factor expression uniquely identifies most postembryonic neuronal lineages in the Drosophila thoracic central nervous system
Authors: Lacin Haluk , Zhu Yi , Wilson Beth A. , Skeath James B.
Published: February 2014

Most neurons of the adult Drosophila ventral nerve cord arise from a burst of neurogenesis during the third larval instar stage. Most of this growth occurs in thoracic neuromeres, which contain 25 individually identifiable postembryonic neuronal lineages. Initially, each lineage consists of two hemilineages - ‘A’ (NotchOn) and ‘B’ (NotchOff) - that exhibit distinct axonal trajectories or fates. No reliable method presently exists to identify these lineages or hemilineages unambiguously other than labor-intensive lineage-tracing methods. By combining mosaic analysis with a repressible cell marker (MARCM) analysis with gene expression studies, we constructed a gene expression map that enables the rapid, unambiguous identification of 23 of the 25 postembryonic lineages based on the expression of 15 transcription factors. Pilot genetic studies reveal that these transcription factors regulate the specification and differentiation of postembryonic neurons: for example, Nkx6 is necessary and sufficient to direct axonal pathway selection in lineage 3. The gene expression map thus provides a descriptive foundation for the genetic and molecular dissection of adult-specific neurogenesis and identifies many transcription factors that are likely to regulate the development and differentiation of discrete subsets of postembryonic neurons.
Uretrovaginalni refl uks: prikaz bolesnika
Authors: Banožić Ljerka , Roić Goran , Klarić Andrea Šimić , Drkulec Vlado , Roić Andrea Cvitković
Published: February 2014

Cilj ovoga prikaza je uputiti na uretrovaginalni refl uks kao mogući i nerijetki uzrok dnevne inkontinencije u djevojčica školske dobi.Bolesnica je devetogodišnja djevojčica s recidivirajućim vulvitisima, recidivirajućim bakteriurijama i dnevnom inkontinencijom. Dopostavljanja konačne dijagnoze povremeno je liječena peroralnom antibiotskom i lokalnom antimikotskom terapijom. Ultrazvukbubrega i mokraćnog mjehura i urofl ow bili su uredni. Pri drugom UZV-u bubrega i mokraćnog mjehura prikazan je pun mokraćnimjehur, uz retrovezikalno tubularnu tvorbu veličine 4,8x2,6x6,8 cm, koja odgovara rodnici. Nakon mokrenja opisana tvorba se nijeispraznila, a nakon pritiska na trbuh došlo je do istjecanja mokraće, unatoč praznom mjehuru. Ovakav nalaz upućuje na uretrovaginalni refl uks. Magnetskom rezonancijom zdjelice isključena je mogućnost vezikovaginalne fi stule te je potvrđena dijagnoza uretrovaginalnog refl uksa.
adolesc
Authors: Barbarić Katarina , Dimnjaković Damjan , Bergovec Marko , Smoljanović Tomislav , Bojanić Ivan
Published: February 2014

Ovim prikazom bolesnika želimo upozoriti na otežano postavljanje dijagnoze kad je osteoid osteom lokaliziran na vratu talusa.Osim nespecifi čne kliničke slike, dodatna poteškoća dijagnostici je to što se osteoid osteom te lokalizacije teško uočava namagnetskoj rezonanciji koja je danas prvi izbor u slikovnoj dijagnostici bolnih stanja zgloba. Prikazujemo slučaj bolesnice koja je uživotnoj dobi od 15 godina počela osjećati bolove u lijevom gležnju, i to bez prethodne ozljede. Tijekom liječenja učinjene su dvijemagnetske rezonancije gležnja te jedan artroskopski zahvat bez ikakvog poboljšanja. Nakon detaljno uzete anamneze i pregleda unašoj klinici posumnjalo se na osteoid osteom vrata talusa, pa je učinjena kompjuterska tomografi ja koja je potvrdila tu sumnju.Načinjen je ponovni artroskopski zahvat tijekom kojeg je obavljena djelomična sinoviektomija i uklonjen tumor, a patohistološka jeanaliza potvrdila da je riječ o osteoid osteomu. Od operacijskog zahvata bolesnica se više nije žalila ni na kakvu bol u gležnju, pa niprilikom hoda niti u mirovanju, a nakon šest mjeseci se u potpunosti vratila svojim športskim aktivnostima. Osteoid osteom koji senalazi unutar ili u neposrednoj blizini zgloba često uzrokuje nespecifi čnu kliničku sliku koja može odvesti na dijagnostičku stranputicu, zbog čega se može za dulje vrijeme odgoditi postavljanje točne dijagnoze, a time i početak djelotvornog liječenja. U slučajusumnje na osteoid osteom vrata talusa slikovna metoda izbora je kompjuterska tomografi ja, a od velike je važnosti i komunikacijaizmeđu kliničara i radiologa, jer će točnost dijagnosticiranja biti značajno veća ako je radiolog upoznat o sumnji na osteoidosteom.
Early detection of developmental disorders in primary health care
Authors: Ristovska Lidija , Jachova Zora , Trajkovski Vladimir
Published: February 2014

The aim of this paper is to analyze the ways of detecting developmental disorders in children in primary health care. We processed data from medical records of 2 634 children examined at Pediatric Dispensary, Military Hospital, Skopje, Republic of Macedonia, during the 2000-2009 period. Children were born between 1990 and 2009. In this retrospective study, we analyzed the High Risk Registry and collected data on 211 588 visits. We also conducted unstructured interview with pediatricians. For statistical data analysis, we used chi-square test with the level of signifi cance of p<0.05. During the 2000-2009 period, developmental disorders were detected in 172 (6.5%) children, 112 male and 60 female. Most children (81.9%) had specifi c developmental disorders of speech and language. From all children, 272 (10.3%) had perinatal biological risk factors. Fifty-seven (21%) children with risk factors had developmental disorders. Our study showed that in most children, developmental disorders were detected after 24 months of age. Most children with developmental disorders were males. Because of the more intensive follow up, developmental disorders in children born with perinatal biological risk factors were detected earlier than in children born without these risk factors. Further studies could focus on the prevention of risk factors and developmental disorders.
Urolitijaza – potencijalna komplikacija terapije ceftriaksonom
Authors: Turudić Daniel , Turudić Daniel , Batinić Danica , Miše Branko , Habuš Ivan , Spajić Marija , Krnjak Goran , Milošević Danko
Published: February 2014

Svrha studije je bila procijeniti rizik nastanka urolitijaze u djece liječene ceftiaksonom. Retrospektivno je analizirano 238-ero djece scistopijelonefritisom, liječene u 2011. godini, cefriaksonom u standardnoj dozi od 60 mg/kg/dan kroz 10 dana. Slikovnom obradomu 74-ero djece nađene su anomalije mokraćnog sustava, od čega u njih 66-ero vezikoureteralni refl uks, a u 7-ero hidronefroza. Ni ujednog dijeteta nije nađena urolitijaza. Kliničkim praćenjem kroz mjesec dana nije bilo kliničkih i/ili laboratorijskih indirektnih znakova urolitijaze. Može se zaključiti da je liječenje cefriaksonom u standardnoj dozi i dužini trajanja sigurno. Oprez je nužan ako supotrebne više doze i/ili produženo davanje. U tom slučaju preporučujemo višekratni ultrazvučni pregled mokraćnog sustava ižučnjaka, probir na hiperkalciuriju i alkalinizaciju urina.
Porođajni prijelomi bedrene kosti
Authors: Vrdoljak Ozren , Bumči Igor , Car Andrija , Župančić Božidar , Bastić Mislav , Barčot Zoran , Tufeković Dražen , Vrdoljak Javor
Published: February 2014

Porođajni prijelomi bedrene kosti su rijetki. U Klinici za dječje bolesti Zagreb, u razdoblju od 1988. do 2013. godine, liječeno je 12-ero bolesnika s porođajnim prijelomom srednje i proksimalne trećine bedrene kosti u dobi do 1. mjeseca života. Najčešći rizični čimbenik bioje porođaj zatkom. Dijagnoza je postavljenja na temelju kliničkog pregleda i rengenske snimke. Bolesnici su liječeni ekstenzijom natkoljenice prema Bryant-u, sadrenom imobilizacijom te u novije vrijeme Pavlikovim remenčićima. U svih bolesnika je u 4. tjednu života došlodo stvaranja stabilnog koštanog kalusa, a usprkos značajnijem pomaku koštanih ulomaka, postignuta je odgovarajuća osovina bedrene kosti. Tijekom daljnjeg razvoja nije došlo do značajne razlike u dužini donjih ekstremiteta kao ni angulacije bedrene kosti
Vezikoureteralni refl uks i poremećaji funkcije donjeg mokraćnog sustava
Authors: Roić Andrea Cvitković , Roić Goran , Morić Bernardica Valent , Palčić Iva
Published: February 2014

Vezikoureteralni refl uks, koji je posljedica kongenitalne anomalije vezikoureteralnog spoja, dobro je poznat entitet. U posljednjihnekoliko desetljeća raste spoznaja o uskoj povezanosti poremećaja funkcije donjeg mokraćnog sustava i vezikoureteralnog refl uksa.Najčešći oblici poremećaja funkcije donjeg mokraćnog sustava koji su povezani s vezikoureteralnim refl uksom nestabilni su mokraćni mjehur (“overactive bladder”) i disfunkcijsko mokrenje. Brojni autori upućuju na povezanost refl uksa s neneurogenim i neurogenim disfunkcijama donjeg mokraćnog sustava. U ovom preglednom radu željeli smo naglasiti važnost prepoznavanja poremećajafunkcije donjeg urotrakta u djece s vezikoureteralnim refl uksom, s obzirom na to da je postojanje disfunkcije negativan prognostičkičimbenik za spontano povlačanje vezikoureteralnog refl uksa. Također, kirurško liječenje vezikoureteralnog refl uksa u djeteta sporemećajem funkcije donjeg urotrakta često rezultira neuspjehom. Važno je rano dijagnosticirati disfunkciju donjeg mokraćnogsustava kod svakog djeteta s vezikoureteralnim refl uksom zbog različitog dijagnostičkog i terapijskog pristupa.
A New Paradigm: Glocal Urbanism and Architecture of Rapidly Developing Countries
Authors: Khan Hasan-Uddin
Published: February 2014

The multiple new readings of globalization illuminate the global and local pressures upon the city and its particular forms of spatial organization and various architectures. Recent investigations and approaches thus reveal a revised image for the city based on innovative visions and values. The various aspects of these new developments in scholarship are complex and analysed here under six rubrics – synthetic cities and new urban forms; the Central Business District (CBD) as a generator of growth; skyscrapers as symbols of the new modernity; global architecture appropriated into the local; tourism; historic preservation and the vernacular; and, housing environments for the poor. By carefully considering the overlapping emphases of these rubrics, this editorial indicates a new paradigm within which to consider urbanism.
Visualization and Measurement of Teat Structures in Black-and-White Cows Through Ultrasonography
Authors: Fasulkov Ivan , Vasilev Nasko , Karadaev Manol , Dineva Galina
Published: February 2014

The aim of the present study was to determine the features and size of teat structures in cows using ultrasonography. The experiment was conducted with 12 clinically healthy Black-and-White cows, 3 years of age, with body weight of 350-450 kg. Ultrasonography was performed on 48 teats using ultrasound SonoScape A5v (SonoScape, China) with multifrequency linear transducer (5-12 MHz). The potential of the imaging technique to visualize teat structures as well as teat canal length and diameter, the diameter in the area of the Furstenberg’s rosette, teat wall thickness, teat cistern diameter in its middle part and teat cistern diameter in teat base was evaluated. Scans were conducted before milking, immediately after milking, and 1 and 2 hours after milking. The average teat canal length measured by ultrasound was 8.48±1.41 mm before milking, and until the 2nd post-milking hour its size became statistically significantly (p<0.001) lower (7.48±0.93 mm). Teat canal diameter showed a significant difference (p<0.01) only immediately after milking compared to the size before milking. The diameter of the middle part and the base of the teat cistern also tended to decrease considerably after milking (p<0.001) as compared to premilking values. The teat wall thickness immediately after milking and 1 hour after milking were statistically significantly higher (p<0.001) compared to the premilking size. The analysis of results showed that ultrasonography is a rapid non-invasive and accurate method for determination of characteristics and size of teat structures. It could be used for evaluation of changes occurring in bovine teat after milking - shortening of the teat canal, teat wall thickening and reduction of teat cistern diameter.
Unexpected high frequency of skeletal dysplasia in idiopathic short stature and small for gestational age patients
Authors: Flechtner I , Lambot-Juhan K , Teissier R , Colmenares A , Baujat G , Beltrand J , Ajaltouni Z , Pauwels C , Pinto G , Samara-Boustani D , Simon A , Thalassinos C , Le Merrer M , Cormier-Daire V , Polak M
Published: February 2014

Objective

To assess the prevalence of skeletal dysplasias (SDs) in patients with idiopathic short stature (ISS) or small for gestational age (SGA) status.

Setting

Rare Endocrine/Growth Diseases Center in Paris, France.

Design

A prospective study on consecutive patients with ISS and SGA enrolled from 2004 to 2009.

Method

We used a standardized workup to classify patients into well-established diagnostic categories. Of 713 patients with ISS (n=417) or SGA status (n=296), 50.9% underwent a skeletal survey. We chose patients labeled normal or with a prepubertal slowdown of growth as a comparison group.

Results

Diagnoses were ISS (16.9%), SGA (13.5%), normal growth (24.5%), transient growth rate slowing (17.3%), endocrine dysfunction (12%), genetic syndrome (8.9%), chronic disease (5.1%), and known SD (1.8%). SD was found in 20.9% of SGA and 21.8% ISS patients and in only 13.2% in our comparison group. SD prevalence was significantly higher in the ISS group than in the comparison group, especially (50%) for patients having at least one parent whose height was <−2 SDS. Dyschondrosteosis and hypochondroplasia were the most frequently identified SD, and genetic anomaly was found in 61.5 and 30% respectively. Subtle SD was found equally in the three groups and require long-term growth follow-up to evaluate the impact on final height.

Conclusion

SD may explain more than 20% of cases of growth retardation ascribed to ISS or SGA, and this proportion is higher when parental height is <−2 SDS. A skeletal survey should be obtained in patients with delayed growth in a context of ISS or SGA.
Maternal thyroid dysfunction affects placental profile of inflammatory mediators and the intrauterine trophoblast migration kinetics
Authors: Silva Juneo Freitas , Ocarino Natália Melo , Serakides Rogéria
Published: February 2014

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the gene and immunohistochemical expression of inflammatory mediators involved in the immune activity and the intrauterine trophoblast migration of the placentas in hypothyroid and L-thyroxine (L-T4)-treated rats. A total of 144 adult female rats were divided equally into hypothyroid,l-T4-treated, and euthyroid (control) groups. Hypothyroidism was induced by daily administration of propylthiouracil. Rats were killed at 0, 10, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, and 19 days of gestation. We evaluated the depth of interstitial and endovascular intrauterine trophoblast invasion and the immunohistochemical expression of interferon γ (INFy), migration inhibitory factor (MIF), and inducible nitric oxide synthase (NOS2 (iNOS)). The gene expression of Toll-like receptor 2 (Tlr2) andTlr4,Infy,Mif, tumor necrosis factor (Tnf(Tnfα)),Il10,Nos2, matrix metalloproteinase 2 (Mmp2) andMmp9, and placental leptin was also measured in placental disks by real-time RT-PCR. The data were analyzed using an Student-Newman-Keuls (SNK) test. Hypothyroidism reduced the endovascular and interstitial trophoblast migration, and the expression of TLR4, INFy, MIF, interleukin 10 (IL10), NOS2, MMP2 and MMP9, and placental leptin, while increased the expression of TLR2 (P<0.05). T4-treated rats not only increased the expression of IL10 and NOS2 but also reduced the expression of TNF and MIF at 10 days of gestation (P<0.05). However, at 19 days of gestation, expression of INFy and MIF was increased in T4-treated group (P<0.05). Excess of T4also increased the gene expression ofMmp2at 10 days of gestation (P<0.05), but reduced the endovascular trophoblast migration at 18 days of gestation (P<0.05). Hypothyroidism and excess of T4differentially affect the immune profile and the intrauterine trophoblast migration of the placenta, and these effects are dependent on the gestational period.