bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Perception Study of Traditional Korean Medical Students on the Medical Education Using the Dundee Ready Educational Environment Measure
Authors: Kim Hyunho , Jeong Hanyoung , Jeon Pyeongjin , Kim Seungju , Park Young-Bae , Kang Yeonseok
Published: November 2016

Background. In Korea, a few studies regarding traditional Korean medicine (TKM) education have been conducted. The aim of this study is to evaluate students’ perceptions regarding TKM education in Korea and compare them with those of other countries using a quantitative scale, Dundee Ready Educational Environment Measure (DREEM). Materials and Methods. We conducted a survey using DREEM in a TKM college. Totally, 325 students responded to this survey and we performed the descriptive statistics of scores in all items, subscales, and total. Additionally, subgroup comparisons according to gender, school year, and academic achievement were analyzed. Results. Mean overall DREEM score was 94.65 out of 200, which is relatively low compared to previous studies. Particularly, perceptions regarding subscales of learning, atmosphere, and self‐perceptions were interpreted as problematic. There was no statistically significant difference between genders in spite of some differences among groups based on school year or academic achievement. Conclusions. We could examine students’ perceptions regarding TKM education at a TKM college using DREEM for which validity and reliability were verified. TKM education was perceived relatively poor, but these quantitative indicators suggested which parts of education need improvement. We expect DREEM to be used widely in TKM or traditional medical education field.
Risk Factors for Postoperative Urinary Tract Infections in Patients Undergoing Total Joint Arthroplasty
Authors: Alvarez Andrew P. , Demzik Alysen L. , Alvi Hasham M. , Hardt Kevin D. , Manning David W.
Published: November 2016

Background. Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are the most common minor complication following total joint arthroplasty (TJA) with incidence as high as 3.26%. Bladder catheterization is routinely used during TJA and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has recently identified hospital-acquired catheter associated UTI as a target for quality improvement. This investigation seeks to identify specific risk factors for UTI in TJA patients.Methods.We retrospectively studied patients undergoing TJA for osteoarthritis between 2006 and 2013 in the American College of Surgeon’s National Surgical Improvement Program Database (ACS-NSQIP). A univariate analysis screen followed by multivariate logistic regression identified specific patient demographics, comorbidities, preoperative laboratory values, and operative characteristics independently associated with postoperative UTI.Results.1,239 (1.1%) of 115,630 TJA patients we identified experienced a postoperative UTI. The following characteristics are independently associated with postoperative UTI: female sex (OR 2.1, 95% CI 1.6–2.7), chronic steroid use (OR 2.0, 95% CI 1.2–3.2), ages 60–69 (OR 1.5, 95% CI 1.0–2.1), 70–79 (OR 2.0, 95% CI 1.4–2.9), and ≥80 (OR 2.3, 95% CI 1.5–3.6), ASA Classes 3–5 (OR 1.5, 95% CI 1.2–1.9), preoperative creatinine >1.35 (OR 1.8, 95% CI 1.3–2.6), and operation time greater than 130 minutes (OR 1.8, 95% CI 1.3–2.4).Conclusions.In this large database query, postoperative UTI occurs in 1.1% of patients following TJA and several variables including female sex, age greater than 60, and chronic steroid use are independent risk factors for occurrence. Practitioners should be aware of populations at greater risk to support efforts to comply with CMS initiated quality improvement.
Shugan Xiaozhi Decoction Attenuates Nonalcoholic Steatohepatitis by Enhancing PPARα and L‐FABP Expressions in High‐Fat‐Fed Rats
Authors: Xing Yu-feng , Zhang Zhen , Fu Wen-Jun , Zhou Da-qiao , Yuen Ailsa Chui-ying , Mok Daniel Kam-wah , Chan Chi-on , Tong Guang-dong
Published: November 2016

This study aimed to investigate the effects of Shugan Xiaozhi decoction (SX) on nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) induced by high‐fat diet in rats. The rats were randomly divided into 6 groups, namely, control, model, fenofibrate, and three different dosage of SX (10, 20, and 40 g/kg/day, p.o.). After establishing the NASH model, at 8 weeks of the experiment, treatments were administrated intragastrically to the fenofibrate and SX groups. All rats were killed after 4 weeks of treatment. Compared with the model group, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), free fatty acid (FFA), total cholesterol (TC), triacylglycerol (TG), and low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL) serum in the serum were significantly reduced in all SX treatment groups in a dose‐dependent manner. Evidence showed that SX could protect the liver by upregulating the gene and protein expressions of peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor alpha (PPARα) and liver fatty acid binding protein (L‐FABP) in a dose‐dependent manner. Chemical constituents of SX were further analyzed by ultraperformance liquid chromatography coupled with electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (UPLC‐ESI‐MS) and 30 chemicals in the ethanolic extract were tentatively identified. To conclude, our results clearly indicated that SX could protect liver functions and relieve hepatic steatosis and inflammation.
Highly Efficient Adsorption of Aqueous Pb(II) with Mesoporous Metal-Organic Framework-5: An Equilibrium and Kinetic Study
Authors: Rivera José María , Rincón Susana , Ben Youssef Cherif , Zepeda Alejandro
Published: November 2016

Mesoporous metal-organic framework-5 (MOF-5), with the composition Zn4O(BDC)3, showed a high capacity for the adsorptive removal of Pb(II) from 100% aqueous media. After the adsorption process, changes in both morphology and composition were detected using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) equipped with an energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) system, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis. The experimental evidence showed that Zn(II) liberation from MOF-5 structure was provoked by the water effect demonstrating that Pb(II) removal is not due to ionic exchange with Zn. A kinetic study showed that Pb(II) removal was carried out in 30 min with a behavior of pseudo-second-order kinetic model. The experimental data on Pb(II) adsorption were adequately fit by both the Langmuir and BET isotherm models with maximum adsorption capacities of 658.5 and 412.7 mg/g, respectively, at pH 5 and 45°C. The results of this work demonstrate that the use of MOF-5 has great potential for applications in environmental protection, especially regarding the removal of the lead present in industrial wastewaters and tap waters.
Relationship between FEV1 and Cardiovascular Risk Factors in General Population without Airflow Limitation
Authors: Lee Jeong Hyeon , Kang Yun-Seong , Jeong Yun-Jeong , Yoon Young-Soon , Kwack Won Gun , Oh Jin Young
Published: November 2016

Purpose.We aimed to determine the value of lung function measurement for predicting cardiovascular (CV) disease by evaluating the association between FEV1 (%) and CV risk factors in general population.Materials and Methods.This was a cross-sectional, retrospective study of subjects above 18 years of age who underwent health examinations. The relationship between FEV1 (%) and presence of carotid plaque and thickened carotid IMT (≥0.8 mm) was analyzed by multiple logistic regression, and the relationship between FEV1 (%) and PWV (%), and serum uric acid was analyzed by multiple linear regression. Various factors were adjusted by using Model 1 and Model 2.Results.1,003 subjects were enrolled in this study and 96.7% (n=970) of the subjects were men. In both models, the odds ratio of the presence of carotid plaque and thickened carotid IMT had no consistent trend and statistical significance. In the analysis of the PWV (%) and uric acid, there was no significant relationship with FEV1 (%) in both models.Conclusion.FEV1 had no significant relationship with CV risk factors. The result suggests that FEV1 may have no association with CV risk factors or may be insensitive to detecting the association in general population without airflow limitation.
Metastatic Inflammatory Myofibroblastic Tumor of the Spleen: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Koechlin Luca , Zettl Andreas , Koeberle Dieter , von Flüe Markus , Bolli Martin
Published: November 2016

Introduction.Inflammatory myofibroblastic tumors (IMT) of the spleen are rare neoplasms and only little is known about the origin and behavior of these tumors. Here we report the case of a 37-year-old woman with an atypical spindle cell neoplasm showing features strongly suggesting an IMT of the spleen with hepatic metastasis.Methods.A 37-year-old patient had been complaining about pain in the left upper abdomen for the last two months. A CT scan revealed a tumor mass in her spleen and liver. After complete staging, a splenectomy and atypical liver resection of segments VII and VIII were performed. Literature was screened for similar cases and existing further literature.Results.A R0 resection was achieved. Histological analysis showed a multinodular infiltration of the spleen by an atypical mesenchymal neoplasia. Immunohistochemically there was an expression of histiocytic markers (CD4, CD68) as well as smooth muscle cell markers (SMA, H-Caldesmon) in the tumor cells. A diagnosis of an atypical spindle cell neoplasm showing features most suggestive of an IMT was rendered.Conclusion.Synchronous hepatic metastasis of an IMT of the spleen is a rarity. Therefore no experience in the treatment of these tumors exists. Fibroblastic reticular cell tumor is a differential diagnosis, but differentiation of these two entities is difficult.
Combination Immunosuppressive Therapy Including Rituximab for Epstein-Barr Virus-Associated Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis in Adult-Onset Still’s Disease
Authors: Schäfer Eva Johanna , Jung Wolfram , Korsten Peter
Published: November 2016

Hemophagocytic lymphopcytosis (HLH) is a life-threatening condition. It can occur either as primary form with genetic defects or secondary to other conditions, such as hematological or autoimmune diseases. Certain triggering factors can predispose individuals to the development of HLH. We report the case of a 25-year-old male patient who was diagnosed with HLH in the context of adult-onset Still’s disease (AOSD) during a primary infection with Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). During therapy with anakinra and dexamethasone, he was still symptomatic with high-spiking fevers, arthralgia, and sore throat. His laboratory values showed high levels of ferritin and C-reactive protein. His condition improved after the addition of rituximab and cyclosporine to his immunosuppressive regimen with prednisolone and anakinra. This combination therapy led to a sustained clinical and serological remission of his condition. While rituximab has been used successfully for HLH in the context of EBV-associated lymphoma, its use in autoimmune diseases is uncommon. We hypothesize that the development of HLH was triggered by a primary EBV infection and that rituximab led to elimination of EBV-infected B-cells, while cyclosporine ameliorated the cytokine excess. We therefore propose that this combination immunosuppressive therapy might be successfully used in HLH occurring in the context of autoimmune diseases.
Factors Affecting the Mechanical Properties of Cement-Mixed Gravel
Authors: Wang Chen , Li Wentao
Published: November 2016

A study has been conducted to investigate the mechanical properties of cement-mixed gravel using the unconfined compression test and the tensile test. Basic factors including the curing period, the water-binder ratio, the cement content, and the strain rate were evaluated. Ordinary Portland cement with fly ash was employed as the cementation agent for preparing cemented samples. The results indicate that the unconfined compressive strength, the deformation modulus, and the tensile strength increase with the increase in the curing period. The ratio of tensile strength to unconfined compressive strength has no distinct change after 7 days. An optimum water-binder ratio can be obtained. The unconfined compressive strength and deformation modulus decrease as the water-binder ratio decreases and increase from the optimum water-binder ratio. With the increasing of the cement content, the unconfined compressive strength increases distinctly, the deformation modulus increases significantly when the cement content is less than 4% and then increased slowly, and the failure strain increases to a peak value and then decreases. With the increasing of the strain rate, the unconfined compressive strength increases slightly and the deformation modulus increases slowly. The failure strain decreases with an increase in the strain rate.
A Large Isolated Hydatid Cyst of the Adrenal Gland: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Elzein Fatehi Elnour , Aljaberi Abdullah , AlFiaar Abdullah , Alghamdi Abdullah
Published: November 2016

A 44-year-old patient presented with two-year history of (R) lumbar pain. There was a strong history of childhood animals’ contact, including dogs. A brother had multiple hydatid cysts requiring surgery. Initial ultrasound showed a large (R) adrenal mass measuring 10×9×8 cm. Subsequent CT scan confirmed a heavily calcified cyst in the (R) adrenal gland. Hormonal studies were normal. He had an uneventful course following a total adrenalectomy. Isolated adrenal hydatid is extremely rare with an incidence of less than 0.5%; however, the diagnosis should always be suspected in all patients from an endemic area presenting with an adrenal cystic mass.
Effect of Sugar Palm Fiber Surface on Interfacial Bonding with Natural Sago Matrix
Authors: Mardin H. , Wardana I. N. G. , Pratikto  , Suprapto Wahyono , Kamil Kusno
Published: November 2016

Palm fibers were immersed in sea water for 1, 2, 3, and 4 weeks prior to application as reinforcement of green biocomposite. Instead of common resin matrix, natural sago starch was applied as the matrix compound. The immersion treatments had significantly affected fibers surface morphology and interfacial bonds of fiber and the matrix as observed through Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). The quality of interfacial bonds became higher by additional duration of the sea water immersion. The best interlocking surfaces of fibers and matrix appeared in the composite with 4-week immersed fibers, indicated by disappearance of gaps between fiber and matrix. The morphology of fibers surface interlocking process was clearly seen during the duration of immersion.
Sound Transmission in a Duct with Sudden Area Expansion, Extended Inlet, and Lined Walls in Overlapping Region
Authors: Demir Ahmet
Published: November 2016

The transmission of sound in a duct with sudden area expansion and extended inlet is investigated in the case where the walls of the duct lie in the finite overlapping region lined with acoustically absorbent materials. By using the series expansion in the overlap region and using the Fourier transform technique elsewhere we obtain a Wiener-Hopf equation whose solution involves a set of infinitely many unknown expansion coefficients satisfying a system of linear algebraic equations. Numerical solution of this system is obtained for various values of the problem parameters, whereby the effects of these parameters on the sound transmission are studied.
Surgery and Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Akamatsu Nobuhisa , Cillo Umberto , Cucchetti Alessandro , Donadon Matteo , Pinna Antonio Daniele , Torzilli Guido , Kokudo Norihiro
Published: November 2016

The optimal surgical strategy for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is under active debate. Bio-markers of the liver functional reserve as well as volumetric analysis of the future liver remnant are essential for safe liver resection of HCC. The present algorithms applied to surgical strategies for HCC are not ideal because many patients who could potentially undergo safe resection are deemed liver transplant candidates in Western countries, whereas the opposite is the case in Eastern countries. In addition, there is too much focus on expanded criteria for patients with HCC to undergo liver transplantation. The transplantation benefit for patients with HCC should be considered based not only on the individual's benefit, but also on the effect of other patients waiting for LT for other indications.
Current Technical Issues for Surgery of Primary Liver Cancer
Authors: Kawaguchi Yoshikuni , Honda Goro , Endo Itaru , Cherqui Daniel , Kokudo Norihiro
Published: November 2016

Primary liver cancer is the fifth most common cancer worldwide. Apart from liver transplantation, surgical resection has been accepted as the effective local treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), one of the most common primary liver cancers. Recent technological innovations including navigation technology and intraoperative real-time fluorescence guidance have been utilized for liver resections in clinical practice. With respect to liver resection techniques, the laparoscopic approach has been increasingly gaining popularity as one of the minimally-invasive treatments of HCC. These technological innovations and technical advancements are expected to further improve the safety and efficacy of liver resections.
Hepatocellular Carcinoma: The Role of Interventional Oncology
Authors: Donadon Matteo , Solbiati Luigi , Dawson Laura , Barry Aisling , Sapisochin Gonzalo , Greig Paul D , Shiina Shuichiro , Fontana Andrea , Torzilli Guido
Published: November 2016

Background: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains a major health issue because of its increasing incidence and because of the complexity of its management. In addition to the traditional potentially curative treatments, i.e., liver transplantation and surgical resection, other new and emerging local therapies have been applied with promising results. Summary: Radiotherapy (RT) and interstitial treatments, such as radiofrequency ablation (RFA), microwave ablation (MWA), and irreversible electroporation (IRE), have recently opened new and interesting treatment scenarios for HCC and are associated with promising results in selected patients. Herein, we describe the emerging role of interventional oncology for the treatment of HCC and focus on the different Western and Eastern approaches. Key Messages: Modern RT and modern interstitial therapies, such as RFA, MWA, and IRE, should be considered for inclusion in HCC therapy guidelines.
Recent Advances in Chemotherapy and Surgery for Colorectal Liver Metastases
Authors: Passot Guillaume , Soubrane Olivier , Giuliante Felice , Zimmitti Giuseppe , Goéré Diane , Yamashita Suguru , Vauthey Jean-Nicolas
Published: November 2016

Background: The liver is the most common site of metastases for colorectal cancer, and combined resection with systemic chemotherapy is the most effective strategy for survival. The aim of this article is to provide a comprehensive summary on four hot topics related to chemotherapy and surgery for colorectal liver metastases (CLM), namely: (1) chemotherapy-related liver injuries: prediction and impact, (2) surgery for initially unresectable CLM, (3) the emerging role of RAS mutations, and (4) the role of hepatic arterial infusion of chemotherapy (HAIC). Summary and Key Messages: (1) The use of chemotherapy before liver resection for CLM leads to drug-specific hepatic toxicity, which negatively impacts posthepatectomy outcomes. (2) Curative liver resection of initially unresectable CLM following conversion chemotherapy should be attempted whenever possible, provided that a safe future liver remnant volume is achieved. (3) For CLM, RAS mutation status is needed to guide the use of targeted chemotherapy with anti-epithelial growth factor receptor (EGFR) agents, and is a major prognostic factor that may contribute to optimize surgical strategy. (4) HAIC agents increase the rate of objective response and the rate of complete pathological response.
Significant Role(s) of CXCL12 and the SDF-1 3′A Genetic Variant in the Pathogenesis of Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Noroozi Karimabad Mojgan , Khanamani Falahati-pour Soudeh , Hassanshahi Gholamhossein
Published: November 2016

Both cellular and molecular components of the immune system are among the substantial factors involved in the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis (MS). Accumulating evidence confirms that chemokines, as the main members of the immune system, play key roles in the regulation of immune responses. Immune system genetic parameters are believed to influence the onset of immune system-related diseases. Regarding the significant role of the CXCR4/CXCL12 axis in cell differentiation and survival and homing of hematopoietic progenitors to the bone marrow and regulation of neuronal progenitor cell migration in the central nervous system (CNS), genetic factors can cause an increased expression of CXCL12 and induce a vigorous immune response against CNS antigens in MS patients. Previous studies have indicated that the expression of CXCL12 could be affected by its polymorphisms at position +801 at the region of the CXCL12 3′A genetic variation. Finally, CXCL12 seems to be involved in the cellular part of the events that take place in the CNS, and therefore it could be considered as a target in MS therapies. Thus, this review was aimed to describe the recent progress in understanding the role of CXCL12 in MS, with an emphasis on CXCL12 serum concentrations and its gene polymorphism at position +801.
Current Status on Cholangiocarcinoma and Gallbladder Cancer
Authors: Ebata Tomoki , Ercolani Giorgio , Alvaro Domenico , Ribero Dario , Di Tommaso Luca , Valle Juan W.
Published: November 2016

Background: Cholangiocarcinomas (CC) as well as gallbladder cancers are relatively rare and intractable diseases. Clinical, pathological, and epidemiological studies on these tumors have been under investigation. The current status and/or topics on biliary tract cancers have been reported in the East West Association of Liver Tumor (EWALT), held in Milano, Italy in 2015. Summary: All the authors, herein, specifcally reported the current status and leading-edge findings on biliary tract cancers as the following sequence: epidemiology of CC, surgical therapy for intrahepatic CC, surgical therapy for perihilar CC, surgical therapy for gallblad der cancer, chemotherapy for biliary tract cancers, and new histological features in CC. Key Message: The present review article will update the knowledge on biliary tract cancers, en hancing the quality of daily clinical practice. However, many features about these cancers remain unknown; further studies are required to establish disease-specific optimal treatment strategies.
Donor Safety in Haemapheresis: Development of an Internet-Based Registry for Comprehensive Assessment of Adverse Events from Healthy Donors
Authors: Heuft Hans-Gert , Fischer Eike , Weingand Tina , Burkhardt Thomas , Leitner Gerda , Baume Hagen , Schmidt Jörg-Peter , Buser Andreas , Fauchald Gabriele , Reinicke Voigt Ute , Mansouri-Taleghani Behrouz
Published: November 2016

Background: Currently, there is an extensive but highly inconsistent body of literature regarding donor adverse events (AEs) in haemapheresis. As the reports diverge with respect to types and grading of AEs, apheresis procedures and machines, the range of haemapheresis-related AEs varies widely from about 0.03% to 6.6%. Methods: The German Society for Transfusion Medicine and Immunohaematology (DGTI) formed a ‘Haemapheresis Vigilance Working Party' (Arbeitsgemeinschaft Hämapheresevigilanz; AGHV) to create an on-line registry for comprehensive and comparable AE assessment with all available apheresis devices in all types of preparative haemapheresis: plasmapheresis (PLS), plateletpheresis (PLT), red blood cell apheresis, all kind of leukaphereses (autologous/allogeneic blood stem cell apheresis, granulocyte apheresis, lymphocyte/monocyte apheresis) and all possible types of multi-component apheresis. To ensure the comparability of the data, the AGHV adopted the ‘Standard for Surveillance of Complications Related to Blood Donation' from the International Society for Blood Transfusion in cooperation with the International Haemovigilance Network (IHN) and the American Association of Blood Banks for AE acquisition and automated evaluation. The registry is embedded in a prospective observational multi-centre study with a study period of 7 years. Results: A preliminary evaluation encompassed the time period from January, 2012 to December, 2015. During this time, the system proved to be safe and stable. Out of approximately 345,000 haemaphereses 16,477 AEs were reported (4.9%) from 20 participating centres. The majority of AEs occurred in PLSs (63%), followed by PLT (34.5%) and SC (2.2%). Blood access injuries (BAI) accounted for about 55% of the supplied AEs, whereas citrate toxicity symptoms, vasovagal reactions and technical events (e.g. disposable leakages, software failures) rather equally affected haemaphereses at 8-15%. Out of 12,348 finalized AEs, 8,759 (70.1%) were associated with a procedure-related break-off, with BAI being the prevailing cause (5,463/8,759; 62.4%). An automated centre- and procedure-specific AE evaluation according to the latest IHN standard and AGHV pre-settings is available within a few minutes. Conclusions: An on-line electronic platform for comprehensive assessment and centre-specific automated evaluation of AEs in haemaphereses has been developed and proved to be stable and safe over a period of 4 years.
Prader-Willi Syndrome due to an Unbalanced de novo Translocation t(15;19)(q12;p13.3)
Authors: Dang Vy , Surampalli Abhilasha , Manzardo Ann M. , Youn Stephanie , Butler Merlin G. , Gold June-Anne , Kimonis Virginia E.
Published: November 2016

Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS) is a complex, multisystem genetic disorder characterized by endocrine, neurologic, and behavioral abnormalities. We report the first case of an unbalanced de novo reciprocal translocation of chromosomes 15 and 19, 45,XY,-15,der(19)t(15;19)(q12;p13.3), resulting in monosomy for the PWS critical chromosome region. Our patient had several typical features of PWS including infantile hypotonia, a poor suck and feeding difficulties, tantrums, skin picking, compulsions, small hands and feet, and food seeking, but not hypopigmentation, a micropenis, cryptorchidism or obesity as common findings seen in PWS at the time of examination at 6 years of age. He had seizures noted from 1 to 3 years of age and marked cognitive delay. High-resolution SNP microarray analysis identified an atypical PWS type I deletion in chromosome 15 involving the proximal breakpoint BP1. The deletion extended beyond the GABRB3 gene but was proximal to the usual distal breakpoint (BP3) within the 15q11q13 region, and GABRA5, GABRG3, and OCA2 genes were intact. No deletion of band 19p13.3 was detected; therefore, the patient was not at an increased risk of tumors from the Peutz-Jeghers syndrome associated with a deletion of the STK11 gene.
Trajectories and Predictors of Allograft Dysfunction after Renal Transplantation in Children
Authors: de Souza Vandréa Carla , Rabilloud Muriel , Cochat Pierre , Wagner Mario Bernardes , Garcia Clotilde Druck , Ranchin Bruno , Iwaz Jean , Selistre Luciano , Dubourg Laurence
Published: November 2016

Background: The survival rates of renal transplant children are indeed on the rise, but it is still important to ensure that there is optimal renal function in these children in all their future growing years. The number of functioning nephrons and the graft ability to adapt to an increasing demand during body growth seem to be the most important factors for long-term allograft function. This study examined the long-term change in the glomerular filtration rate in a pediatric kidney transplant cohort and the importance of the recipient and donor ages in predicting transplant outcome. Methods: Data on 67 renal transplant children who underwent 278 inulin-clearance measurements between 2000 and 2010 were examined. A longitudinal latent class model was used to identify renal function trajectories and classify the children. Results: This model identified 3 trajectories of renal allograft function after pediatric kidney transplantation: ‘low and decreasing', ‘moderate and stable', and ‘high and sharply decreasing'. The probability of belonging to the low and decreasing trajectory - that is, the poorer outcome - was lower in recipients of grafts from living versus deceased donor (adjusted OR (aOR) 0.02; p = 0.03). This probability increased with recipient age (aOR 1.20 per year of recipient ageing; p = 0.07) and donor-recipient age-difference (aOR 1.13 per additional year; p = 0.07). Conclusion: This study suggests that donation from living donors and from younger donors are favorable factors for long-term allograft function.
Nutritional Status and Changes in Body Weight in Patients with Multiple System Atrophy
Authors: Sato Tomoe , Shiobara Maho , Nishizawa Masatoyo , Shimohata Takayoshi
Published: November 2016

Introduction: The importance of nutritional management in neurodegenerative diseases is increasingly recognized in the clinical setting. However, few reports have examined the nutritional intake in patients with multiple system atrophy (MSA). Here, we investigated changes in daily caloric intake, body mass index (BMI) and nutritional status during the disease course of MSA. Methods: We performed a single-hospital study of 82 consecutive patients with probable MSA according to the consensus criteria. We determined daily caloric intake, the level of activities of daily living (ADL; independent, wheelchair-bound or bedridden) and BMI at the time of admission. Nutritional status was also evaluated using biochemical nutritional markers including serum albumin, total cholesterol and lymphocyte count. Results: Although daily caloric intake decreased with ADL level deterioration (p < 0.01), no significant differences were observed in BMI among ADL levels. Serum albumin also decreased with ADL deterioration (p < 0.01); however, no significant differences were observed for serum total cholesterol or lymphocyte count with respect to ADL level. Conclusion: We demonstrated that patients with advanced stage MSA may develop malnutrition in the absence of a decrease in BMI. Moreover, serum albumin level may be useful for evaluating nutritional changes in MSA patients.
ОСНОВНІ ТЕНДЕНЦІЇ ТА ПРОГНОЗНІ ОЦІНКИ ЗАГАЛЬНОЇ ТА ПЕРВИННОЇ ЗАХВОРЮВАНОСТІ НА ІШЕМІЧНУ ХВОРОБУ СЕРЦЯ В УКРАЇНІ
Authors: Terenda N. A.
Published: November 2016

Мета: вивчити динаміку показників поширеності та захворюваності населення України на ішемічну хворобу серця (ІХС) у регіональному аспекті протягом 1996–2014 років та спрогнозувати їх зміни до 2025 року.Матеріали і методи. Матеріалом дослідження слугували дані Центру медичної статистики МОЗ України про рівень первинної захворюваності та поширеності ІХС серед населення України. У роботі використано епідеміологічний, демографічний, статистичний методи дослідження.Результати. Використовуючи метод демографічного районування, проведено оцінку змін поширеності та захворюваності ІХС в Україні та окремих її районах протягом 1996–2014 років. Спрогнозовано тенденцію до подальшого зростання ІХС, як в Україні, так і в деяких її районах.Висновки. Протягом останніх 19 років в Україні істотно зросла поширеність (у 2,1 разу) та захворюваність (у 1,6 разу) на ІХС. Найбільше ці показники змінилися у Південному та Південно-Східному районах України. Прогнозні показники щодо поширеності та захворюваності на ІХС свідчать про тенденцію до їх зростання, особливо у Південно-Східному та Південному районах.
ОСОБЛИВОСТІ СУБ’ЄКТИВНОГО КОНТРОЛЮ У ЕМІГРАНТІВ ТА РЕЕМІГРАНТІВ, ХВОРИХ НА ДЕПРЕСИВНІ РОЗЛАДИ
Authors: Venger O. P.
Published: November 2016

Мета: вивчення особливостей суб’єктивного контролю у емігрантів та реемігрантів, хворих на депресивні розлади.Матеріали і методи. За допомогою запитальника «Рівень суб’єктивного контролю» та методики вивчення ціннісних орієнтацій було обстежено 585 хворих на депресивні розлади.Результати. Проведене дослідження особливостей суб’єктивного контролю у 196 емігрантів, 191 реемігрантів у порівнянні з 198 не емігрантами, хворими на різні форми депресивних розладів, встановило більшу виразність загальної інтернальності у емігрантів та меншу – у реемігрантів. При цьому у ключових сферах досягнень, сімейних відносин, трудових відносин, міжособистісних відносин емігранти виявляють ознаки інтернальності, а реемігранти – екстернальності. Натомість реемігрантам притаманний інфернальний тип суб’єктивного контролю у сфері невдач. Виявлені закономірності можуть бути пояснені як соціально-психологічними особливостями, так і особистісними характеристиками емігрантів та реемігрантів. Найбільш виразні розбіжності виявлені у хворих на психогенні депресивні розлади, меншою мірою вони виявляються у хворих на ендогенні та органічні депресії. Причини виявлених особливостей можуть полягати як в особистісних особливостях емігрантів та реемігрантів, так і у впливі об’єктивних соціально-психологічних факторів.Висновки. Виявлені закономірності повинні враховуватися при розробці лікувально-реабілітаційних та профілактичних заходів.
ХАРАКТЕРИСТИКА ВИЖИВАННЯ НОВОНАРОДЖЕНИХ ІЗ НИЗЬКОЮ МАСОЮ ТІЛА ПРИ НАРОДЖЕННІ
Authors: Dudina O. O. , Gaborets Yu. Yu. , Dziuba G. A.
Published: November 2016

Мета: вивчити та проаналізувати показники виживання новонароджених із низькою масою тіла при народженні в умовах впровадження регіоналізації перинатальної допомоги в Україні.Матеріали і методи. У ході виконання дослідження використано статистичний та бібліосемантичний методи. Матеріалами дослідження стали дані Держкомстату України  та перинатального аудиту за 2011–2015 роки.Результати. Показники виживання новонароджених з дуже малою масою тіла у перші 168 годин життя склали 81,3%–81,9%, у т. ч. з масою тіла при народженні 500–999 г – 64,2%–63,0%, з масою тіла при народженні 1000–1499 г – 90,1%–91,3%. Встановлена позитивна тенденція щодо перинатальної смертності – 8,6 на 1000 народжених живими і мертвими у 2014 р. і 8,5 у 2015 р. та неонатальної – 3,4 і 3,1 на 1000 народжених живими відповідно.Висновки. Показана ефективність впровадження регіоналізації перинатальної допомоги в країні.
ОРГАНІЗАЦІЯ НАВЧАННЯ СЛУХАЧІВ ЦИКЛІВ ІНТЕРНАТУРИ ТА СПЕЦІАЛІЗАЦІЇ ЗА ФАХОМ «КЛІНІЧНА ЛАБОРАТОРНА ДІАГНОСТИКА»
Authors: Sichkoriz O. Y.
Published: November 2016

Мета – підбір нових інтерактивних методів навчання слухачів циклів інтернатури та спеціалізації за фахом «Клінічна лабораторна діагностика».Матеріали і методи. Для оцінки існуючих та розробки нових методик інтерактивних методів навчання застосовано методи системного підходу та системного аналізу.Результати. Запропоновано поряд із старими педагогічними методами, які визначаються як «пасивні» та «монолог», використання нових інтерактивних методів. Серед форм навчальної діяльності інтернів та слухачів нормам сучасної педагогіки найбільше відповідає метод кооперативних груп.Висновки. Впровадження інтерактивних технологій навчання дозволить вирішити наступні навчальні цілі: розвиток критичного мислення у слухачів циклів інтернатури та спеціалізації за фахом «Клінічна лабораторна діагностика», розширення їх комунікативної компетентності; формування здатності вибору оптимальних варіантів ефективної взаємодії учасників; підвищення мотивації до навчання даної дисципліни; удосконалення професійного рівня слухачів та інтернів за фахом «Лабораторна діагностика».
Expected Fitness Gains of Randomized Search Heuristics for the Traveling Salesperson Problem
Authors: Nallaperuma Samadhi , Neumann Frank , Sudholt Dirk
Published: November 2016

Randomized search heuristics are frequently applied to NP-hard combinatorial optimization problems. The runtime analysis of randomized search heuristics has contributed tremendously to our theoretical understanding. Recently, randomized search heuristics have been examined regarding their achievable progress within a fixed-time budget. We follow this approach and present a fixed-budget analysis for an NP-hard combinatorial optimization problem. We consider the well-known Traveling Salesperson Problem (TSP) and analyze the fitness increase that randomized search heuristics are able to achieve within a given fixed-time budget. In particular, we analyze Manhattan and Euclidean TSP instances and Randomized Local Search (RLS), (1+1) EA and (1+[Formula: see text]) EA algorithms for the TSP in a smoothed complexity setting, and derive the lower bounds of the expected fitness gain for a specified number of generations.
Sport and Transcendence through the Body
Authors: Dailey Erik W.
Published: November 2016

Where is God in sport? Two important entries have recently been made in the conversation on theology and sport (Lincoln Harvey’s A Brief Theology of Sport and Robert Ellis’ The Games People Play), but neither looks closely at the body itself. To fully understand sport and God’s potential activity in sport, one must look carefully at the body, an obviously key element in all athletic pursuits. Here the two authors’ contributions are compared and assessed and further thought for a more complete theology of sport is offered. Bridging off a theological anthropology of the unified person, without a separable soul or spirit, it is my contention that sport is a medium for refinement of the place—the actual body—where God can meet humankind, and therefore athletic activity is a valuable part of the spiritual life.
Rehabilitation for the Jewish Victims of the Holocaust
Authors: Nathan Clemens N.
Published: November 2016

This article looks at reparation and rehabilitation for victims of the holocaust through the work carried out by the Claims Conference of which the author was a member. It provides detailed information about how it was possible to put in place a reparation programme to redress the harm of victims of the holocaust and illustrates how rehabilitation, understood in wide terms, was and continues to be crucial.
Dialychone, Jasmineira and Paradialychone (Annelida: Polychaeta: Sabellidae) from Japan and adjacent waters, including four new species descriptions
Authors: NISHI EIJIROH , TANAKA KATSUHIKO , TOVAR-HERNÁNDEZ MARÍA ANA , GIANGRANDE ADRIANA
Published: November 2016

The genus Chone Krøyer, 1856, and related genera of the family Sabellidae (Polychaeta) are common members of softbottom communities. Four new species from Japanese waters are described herein: Dialychone okudai n. sp., from Hokkaido, Paradialychone katsuuraensis n. sp., from Katsuura, Boso Peninsula; P. edomae n. sp., from Tokyo Bay and Jasmineira kikuchii n. sp., from Ariake Sound, Kyushu. A re-description is also provided for a poorly known species C. cincta Zachs, 1933. This species, originally described from the Peter the Great Bay, Eastern Russia was recorded in this study from Amakusa and Ariake Sound, Kyushu and transferred to Paradialychone. Jasmineira kikuchii is the first record of the genus from Japan. The Japanese species described here are compared with other conspecifics of the world and a key for the sabellid genera with a glandular girdle on chaetiger 2 and thoracic acicular uncini is provided.
Taxonomic revision of the stone geckos (Squamata: Diplodactylidae: Diplodactylus) of southern Australia
Authors: HUTCHINSON MARK N. , DOUGHTY PAUL , OLIVER PAUL M.
Published: November 2016

The stone geckos of the Diplodactylus vittatus species-group are robust terrestrial geckos, mainly distributed through the southern half of Australia. Recent molecular analyses indicate that the current taxonomy significantly under-represents the true diversity in this group. Here we assess the morphological variation in the currently recognized species D. vittatus and D. granariensis, including the subspecies D. g. rex. We redescribe D. vittatus and D. granariensis, resurrect D. furcosus from the synonymy of D. vittatus and describe D. calcicolus sp. nov. and D. wiru sp. nov. from semiarid habitats in western and southern Australia. Other than D. g. rex, most taxa are very similar for such characters as scalation, body and tail shape and size, but colour patterns show species-specific modal conditions, and the largely allopatric distributions mean that most areas support only one or two species which can be distinguished through a combination of characters. Further genetic data is required to resolve the systematic status and geographic distribution of additional deeply divergent genetic lineages in eastern Australia.
Caryophylliidae (Scleractinia) from the Colombian Caribbean
Authors: REYES JAVIER , SANTODOMINGO NADIEZHDA , CAIRNS STEPHEN
Published: November 2016

The family Caryophylliidae comprises the highest diversity of hard corals (Order Scleractinia), represented by more than 300 species around the world. More than 90% are non-symbiotic species (azooxanthellate), whereas less than 30 species are symbiotic (zooxanthellate) or facultative (apozooxanthellate) species. This paper includes 35 species (20 genera) of caryophylliids present in soft and hard bottoms of Colombian seas, which have been mainly collected through INVEMAR expeditions (between 10 and 500 m depth) during the last 10 years. Two new species are described, Stephanocyathus isabellae and Heterocyathus antoniae, the latter belonging to a genus previously known only from the Indian and Pacific oceans.
Two new species of Jupiaba (Characiformes: Characidae) from the rio Tapajós and rio Madeira drainages, Brazil, with an identification key to species of the genus
Authors: NETTO-FERREIRA ANDRÉ L. , ZANATA ANGELA M. , BIRINDELLI JOSÉ L.O. , SOUSA LEANDRO M.
Published: November 2016

Two new species of Jupiaba Zanata are described from Brazil. Jupiaba iasy, new species, is described from rio Teles Pires and rio Jamanxim, tributaries of rio Tapajós, and from rio Aripuanã, in the rio Madeira drainage. It is distinguished from its congeners by its color pattern consisting of a single posteriorly displaced dark crescent-shaped humeral blotch, situated over the first 5 to 7 lateral line scales, and an inconspicuous dark spot at the end of caudal peduncle. It also differs from all remaining Jupiaba for the following combination of characters: 34-36 lateral line scales, 19–21 branched anal-fin rays, 8–10 predorsal scales arranged in a regular row, 6 horizontal series of scales above and 4 series below lateral line, body depth 32.3–36.1% of SL, and absence of filamentous rays in the first dorsal and anal-fin rays. Jupiaba paranatinga, new species, is described from rio Teles Pires, tributary of rio Tapajós. It is distinguished by having 34–35 lateral line scales, two vertically elongated humeral blotches, a conspicuous caudal spot at the end of the caudal peduncle, extending over 8–10 median caudal-fin rays, eye diameter 43.7–46.9% of HL, and relatively low body depth (31.3–35.5% of SL). Additionally, comments on the putative relationships of the new species with their congeners and an updated key to the species of the genus are provided.
Diurnal Variation of TRMM/LIS Lightning Flash Radiances
Authors: Chronis Themistoklis , Koshak William J.
Published: November 2016

This study provides, for the first time, an analysis of the climatological diurnal variations in the lightning flash radiance data product ε from the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission Lightning Imaging Sensor (TRMM/LIS). The ε values over 13 years (2002–14), and over a global scale (∼38°S–38°N), reveal novel and remarkably consistent regional and seasonal patterns as a function of the local solar time (LST). In particular, the diurnal variation of ε (over both continental and oceanic regions) is characterized by a monotonic increase from late afternoon (∼2000 LST), attaining a maximum around 0900 LST, followed by a decreasing trend. The continental (oceanic) ε values reach a broader minimum spanning from ∼1500 to 1900 LST (∼1800 to 2000). The relative diurnal amplitude variation in continental ε is about 45%, compared to about 15% for oceanic ε. This study confirms that the results are not affected by diurnal biases associated with instrument detection or other statistical artifacts. Notable agreement is shown between the diurnal variations of ε and the global-scale (∼38°S–38°N) mesoscale convective system areal extent. Comparisons with recently published diurnal variations of cloud-to-ground lightning peak current over the United States also exhibit a marked similarity. Given the novelty of these findings, a few tentative hypotheses about the underlying physical mechanism(s) are discussed.
Dynamical and Physical Processes Associated with Orographic Precipitation in a Conditionally Unstable Uniform Flow: Variation in Basic Wind Speed
Authors: Sever Gökhan , Lin Yuh-Lang
Published: November 2016

A series of systematic two- and three-dimensional (2D and 3D, respectively) idealized numerical experiments were conducted to investigate the combined effects of dynamical and physical processes on orographic precipitation with varying incoming basic-flow speed U in a conditionally unstable uniform flow. In addition to the three moist flow regimes found in Chu and Lin at lower wind speeds, a new flow regime, regime IV, is found for higher wind speeds (U > 36 m s−1) and is characterized by gravity waves and heavy precipitation and lack of upper-level wave breaking and turbulence over the lee slope. The transition from regime III to regime IV at 36 m s−1 is explained by the transition from upward-propagating gravity waves to evanescent flow, which can be predicted with a modified mountain wave theory. Although the basic features are captured well in low grid resolution (Δx = 1 km), high-resolution (Δx = 100 m) 2D and 3D simulations are required to resolve precipitation distribution and intensity at higher basic winds (U > 30 m s−1). Based on 3D simulations, gravity wave–induced severe downslope winds and turbulent mixing within hydraulic jump reduce orographic precipitation in regime III. A preliminary budget analysis indicated that, in regime IV, orographic precipitation further increases as a result of enhanced rain processes when the blocking effect of wave breaking vanishes.
Importance of Resolving Kuroshio Front and Eddy Influence in Simulating the North Pacific Storm Track
Authors: Ma Xiaohui , Chang Ping , Saravanan R. , Montuoro Raffaele , Nakamura Hisashi , Wu Dexing , Lin Xiaopei , Wu Lixin
Published: November 2016

Local and remote atmospheric responses to mesoscale SST anomalies associated with the oceanic front and eddies in the Kuroshio Extension region (KER) are studied using high- (27 km) and low-resolution (162 km) regional climate model simulations in the North Pacific. In the high-resolution simulations, removal of mesoscale SST anomalies in the KER leads to not only a local reduction in cyclogenesis but also a remote large-scale equivalent barotropic response with a southward shift of the downstream storm track and jet stream in the eastern North Pacific. In the low-resolution simulations, no such significant remote response is found when mesoscale SST anomalies are removed. The difference between the high- and low-resolution model simulated atmospheric responses is attributed to the effect of mesoscale SST variability on cyclogenesis through moist baroclinic instability. It is only when the model has sufficient resolution to resolve small-scale diabatic heating that the full effect of mesoscale SST forcing on the storm track can be correctly simulated.