bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Desain Portofolio Optimal untuk Keputusan Investasi pada Fase Krisis Keuangan
Authors: Saptomo Deddy , Kamil Insannul , Amrina Elita , Plamonia Mego
Published: June 2017

This research aims to design optimal portfolio with a case study of stocks listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) that conduct transactions in the period 2011-2015. The sample used were 396 companies listed on nine sectors in BEI. Arbitrage Pricing Theory (APT) method is used to determine the realized return, expected return, and efficient portfolio involving four macroeconomic factors (Stock Price Index (IHSG), interest rate of Indonesian Bank Certificates (SBI), Inflation and Exchange Rate of Rupiah against the US Dollar). Efficient portfolio is formed by 231 undervalued companies. While the optimal portfolio with the Excess Return to Beta (ERB) approach was formed by 42 companies with a ERB value greater than (or equal to) cut-off point (0,1912). Under the uncertainty of the investment climate due to the global financial crisis, the decision to make investments needs to be done carefully and consider various factors, including macroeconomic factors. This research has succeeded in designing an optimal portfolio that can be a guide for investors to determine investment decisions.
Aqueous Nanoscale Systems
Authors: Roke Sylvie
Published: June 2017

In the past five years the Laboratory for fundamental BioPhotonics (LBP) has worked on developing new technology that can access the molecular structure and nanoscale properties of buried aqueous interfaces and aqueous solutions. Using these methods a better understanding of the important
role that water plays in (nanoscale and interfacial) processes can be obtained. These processes include the long-range interaction of ions with water, structural and charge anomalies of the hydrophobic/aqueous interface, the formation and stabilization of amphiphilic aqueous droplet interfaces,
the formation and molecular properties of the electric double layer, as well as membrane structure and hydration. The result of our work on these themes is summarized for this special issue article.
Several Semiclassical Approaches to Time-resolved Spectroscopy
Authors: Vaníček Jiří
Published: June 2017

Ultrafast spectroscopy allows molecular dynamics to be resolved on the femtosecond time scale. Whereas such short time scales obviously pose many experimental challenges, they provide an opportunity for semiclassical methods, which are naturally suited for short time dynamics. Here
we review several semiclassical approaches for evaluating vibrationally resolved electronic pump-probe spectra, starting with the simplest, 'phase averaging' or 'dephasing representation'. We continue by discussing several methods developed in our group that allow increasing the efficiency
(the cellular dephasing representation) and accuracy (cellular dephasing representation with a prefactor) and end with the Gaussian dephasing representation, which, despite its semiclassical origins, converges to the exact quantum result. The merits as well as shortcomings of the different approaches are demonstrated on time-resolved stimulated emission spectra of NCO and pyrazine.
Ultrafast Laser to Tailor Material Properties: An Enabling Tool in Advanced Three-dimensional Micromanufacturing
Authors: Bellouard Yves
Published: June 2017

The progress made in ultrafast laser technology towards high repetition rate systems have opened new opportunities in micromanufacturing. Non-linear absorption phenomena triggered by femtosecond pulses interacting with transparent materials allow material properties to be tailored locally
and in three dimensions, with resolution beyond the diffraction limits and at rate compatible with fabrication process requirements. In this short article, we illustrate the potential of this technology for manufacturing, and more specifically micro-engineering, with a few examples taken from our own research and beyond.
Vaginal Cuff Dehiscence after Hysterectomy and One Minute Technique of Laparoscopic Vault Closure
Authors: Karki Gyanendra Man Singh , Neupane BB , Regmi MC , Shrestha R , Gupta SN
Published: June 2017

Aims: This study was done to observe the rate of vaginal cuff dehiscence of one minute technique of laparoscopic vault closure in laparoscopic hysterectomy.Methods: It was a descriptive study performed in Birat Hospital among 1012 patients undergoing total laparoscopic hysterectomy for both benign and malignant gynaecological conditions between 2012 to 2013. Monopolar cautery was used for laparoscopic colpotomy and vault was closed by laparoscopic single running suture, that is, one-minute laparoscopic vault closure technique. Patients were followed up for vaginal cuff dehiscence and the dehiscence rate was compared with other techniques of laparoscopic vault closure in laparoscopic hysterectomy.Results: This study showed that the rate of vaginal cuff dehiscence after one minute technique of laparoscopic vault closure in laparoscopic hysterectomy was 1/1012 patients (0.09%) which was significantly less as compared to other techniques of laparoscopic vault closure in laparoscopic hysterectomy quoted in the literature.Conclusions: One minute technique of laparoscopic vault closure after colpotomy with monopolar cautery using single running suture has encouraging results. It is a noble technique of laparoscopic vault closure with excellent support. It can be practiced in low resource setting also.
Undiagnosed Ectopic Pregnancy among Unsupervised use of Medical Abortion pills
Authors: Joshi Arun Prasad , Chitrakar NS , Pariyar J , Shrestha I , Maharjan R , Maharjan P
Published: June 2017

Aims: To identify and share the experience of clinical presentation and management of ectopic pregnancy (EP) in women who presented with unsupervised use of Medical abortion (MA) pills.Methods: A prospective study was conducted in department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology of Civil Service Hospital over one year (March 2015- February 2016). Women with a history of unsupervised use of MA pills were taken into study group as there has been a trend of taking theses pills without consultation in recent days. Detail clinical, menstrual, obstetrics and MA history were taken. Relevant investigations and Ultrasonography were done. Women diagnosed to have ectopic pregnancy were followed and their operative findings were recorded. Results: Ninety-six women presented with unsupervised use of MA, among which 8 (8.33%) diagnosed to have EP. Most women were 20-30 years of age and 37.5% were unmarried.  They gave history of taking MA from pharmacy. Among eight women, 37.5 % had taken MA at the period of gestation <5 weeks, 37.5% between 5-7 weeks and 25% >7-9 weeks. Fifty percent attended hospital after seventy- two hours of MA. Majority (50%) presented with lower abdominal pain and ruptured EP with hemoperitoneum (>one litre) requiring blood transfusion. History of easy availability and social reasons for MA intake were given by 37.5% each.Conclusions: Even though medical abortion is easily accessible, affordable and available, it should also be safer. It is of utmost importance to take it from health facility or a registered medical practitioner following World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines, one of which is excluding extra-uterine pregnancy.
Association of Maternal Hemoglobin and Birth Weight at Paropakar Maternity and Women’s Hospital, Kathmandu
Authors: Ansari Safiur Rahman , Baral Gehanath
Published: June 2017

Aims: To examine the association between maternal hemoglobin with birth weight.Methods: Cross sectional study of obstetrics database at Paropakar Maternity and Women’s Hospital. Hospital delivery of over 18 years of age women tested for Pearson correlation using SPSS-17.Results: Total of 2085 cases analyzed. There was mean hemoglobin value of 12.05 ± 1.30 (95% CI=11.992-12.103) g/dL and no any significant impact on mode of delivery (p=0.15) and neonatal death (p=0.736). There was a small but a significant correlation (p<0.01) of maternal age with hemoglobin (r = 0.106) and birth weight (r = 0.093); but a very small negative correlation between maternal hemoglobin and birth weight.Conclusions: Optimal maternal hemoglobin during labor rules out any strong correlation with birth weight.
Study on Maternal and Immediate Fetal outcome of placenta previa
Authors: Lama Sushma , Ranjit S
Published: June 2017

Aims:  This study aimed to analyze the demographic profile, maternal and fetal outcome of placenta previa.Methods:  This was a retrospective study done at Patan Academy of Health Sciences. The study population  comprised of all the patients that had caesarean section   for placenta previa  from April 2012 to October 2015. All patients diagnosed with placenta previa clinically, ultrasonograph or incidentally  during caesarean sections were recruited in this study.  The data were obtained from medical records and hospital database system. Individual charts were reviewed  and data on various  parameters were collected.Results:  In Patan hospital, there were total 126 placenta previa cases out of 21,552 deliveries during the two and half year period hence the incidence  was 0.58 %.  We were able to retrieve patient records of only 108 of 126 cases. The incidence of placenta previa was higher with increasing maternal age ≥30 years (41.67%), more common in multigravida (65.74%). We found that associated risks factors  included previous CS, multiparity and dilatation and curettage (40.74%).  Eleven patients required blood transfusion, seven of them had blood loss of 1000-1400 ml, one had blood loss of 2000 ml. Also, Caesarean hysterectomy were performed in two patients. In term of fetal outcomes, 37.04% were preterm birth and 29.63% of the babies had low birth weight.  There was one incident of congenital anomaly, one intrauterine fetal death and six neonatal deaths.Conclusions: Placenta previa is an obstetrics complication that is potentially life threatening to both the mother and the baby.
Effectiveness of Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid versus Papanicolaou Smear for Cervical Cancer Screening at Kirtipur Hospital
Authors: Pradhan Peru , Shrestha Sona , Dangal Ganesh , Bhattachan Kabin
Published: June 2017

Aims: The aim of this study was to compare the accuracy of detecting precancerous cervical cells, via a visual inspection of the cervix and an application of acetic acid (VIA) with the Papanicolaou (Pap) smear,to screen for cervical cancer in resource poor countries.Methods: The study involved 189 women between the ages of 30-60 years, who attended the Gynaecological Out Patient Department at Kirtipur hospital from 1st December 2014 to 31st March 2015. A VIA and Pap smear was done in all women, with cervical biopsies conducted in VIA positive women.Results: Themajority of these women were in the age range of 30-39 years, non-smokers, housewives, multipara and non-users of contraception. Of the tested group 8 (4.2%) had a history of post coital bleeding, 64 (21.2%) presented with lower abdominal pain, 64 (33.9%) presented with suspected abnormal vaginal discharge and 34 (17.98%) with dysfunctional uterine bleeding. Out of 189 women the VIA was positive in 5 (2.62%) and a Pap smear was positive in 2 (1.1%). Bycomparison to a Pap smear the VIA has an accuracyof 100%, specificity 98.4%, positive predictive value 40% and negative predictive value 100%.Conclusions: A visual inspection of the cervix with acetic acid performed by a qualified physician is a suitable alternative for precancerous cell screening in low resource settings.
Impact of Preoperative Rectal Misoprostol on Blood Loss during and after Elective Cesarean Delivery: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Sitaula Sarita , Uprety DK , Thakur A , Pradhan T
Published: June 2017

Aims:The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of preoperative administration of rectal misoprostol onblood loss during and after elective cesarean delivery.Methods:It was a randomized trial including 200 women, divided into two groups (group A and group B), who were planned for elective cesarean delivery and didn’t have risk of postpartum hemorrhage (PPH). Group A received 400μg misoprostol per-rectal preoperatively and intravenous infusion of oxytocin after delivery as hospital protocol.Group B received only intravenous infusion of oxytocin. Primary outcome measureswere the estimated amount of intraoperative and postoperative (24 hours) blood loss and changes in hemoglobin levels 48 hours after delivery.Results:Intraoperative and postoperative blood loss in rectal misoprostol and oxytocin group were significantly reducedin comparison to oxytocin only group. Mean blood loss in groupA was 326.9±116.2 mlwhereas; in group B was 397.7±110.1 ml with p value of < 0.001 which was significant.The difference between preoperative and postoperative hemoglobin level after 48 hours was also significant (1.10±0.51 vs 1.35± 0.49 g/dl with p value <0.001).Conclusion: Preoperative rectal misoprostol was found to be an effective measure to reduce the intraoperative and postoperative blood loss during elective cesarean delivery.
Laparoscopic Ovarian Cystectomy in A Patient With Vetriculoperitoneal Shunt: a case report
Authors: Shrestha Ranjana , Bhandari BR , Piya R , Shrestha MR
Published: June 2017

Ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VPS) is often the best treatment modality for neurologic disorders such as hydrocephalus and pseudotumor cerebri. In recent years, laparoscopic surgery has emerged as a preferred method of accessing and treating a variety of abdominopelvic pathology. Laparoscopic procedures were previously contraindicated in patients of hydrocephalus having a Ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt due to shunt obstruction, shunt malfunction, infection and acute elevation of intracranial pressure. Now, conclusive evidence indicating that it is safe to perform laparoscopic surgery in a patient with VP shunt using routine anaesthetic monitoring and without any shunt manipulation. We report a case of successfully performing laparoscopic ovarian cystectomy in a patient with VP shunt.
A rare case of triplet pregnancy with three different fates of each conceptus
Authors: Paul Sayanti , Mandal S , Upadhyaya M , Pramanik SR
Published: June 2017

Rate and number of multifetal gestations have increased dramatically largely due to infertility therapy. A number of pregnancies are multifetal to start with followed by spontaneous reduction of one or more embryos. The final outcomes of such pregnancies vary in relation to zygosity, chorionicity and gestational age. In this case report we present a triplet pregnancy resulting from controlled ovarian hyperstimulation followed by intrauterine-insemination in a primarily infertile patient and how it ended up into a singleton pregnancy with no conscious attempts at selective reduction or selective termination. While fighting with problem of multiple pregnancies which comes along with the widespread infertility treatment nature has its own miraculous way to get rid of such. Little patience and watchful expectancy from the part of obstetrician can achieve a healthy live baby without inadvertent complication.
Rhamnolipids, Microbial Virulence Factors, in Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Andreadou Eleni , Pantazaki Anastasia A. , Daniilidou Makrina , Tsolaki Magda
Published: June 2017

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) has been attributed to chronic bacterial infections. The recognition of human microbiota as a substantial contributor to health and disease is relatively recent and growing. During evolution, mammals live in a symbiotic state with myriads of microorganisms that survive at a diversity of tissue micro-surroundings. Microbes produce a plethora of secretory products [amyloids, lipopolysaccharides, virulence factors rhamnolipids (RLs), toxins, and a great number of neuroactive compounds]. The contribution of infectious microbial components to the pathophysiology of the human central nervous system including AD is considered potentially substantial, but the involvement of the RLs has never been reported. Here, RLs were isolated from serum and identified through various conventional methods including the colorimetric orcinol method, thin-layer chromatography, attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR), and dot blot using antibodies against RLs. Dot blot demonstrated elevated RL levels in sera of AD patients compared to controls ( p = 0.014). Moreover, ELISA showed similarly elevated RL levels in cerebrospinal fluid of both AD (0.188 versus 0.080) ( p = 0.04) and mild cognitive impairment (0.188 versus 0.129) ( p = 0.088) patients compared to healthy, and are well-correlated with the AD stages severity assessed using the Mini-Mental State Examination. These results provide conclusive evidence for the newly-reported implication of RLs in AD, adding it to the list of bacterial components, opening new avenues for AD investigation. Moreover, they strengthen and vindicate the divergence of research toward the exploration of bacterial involvement in AD generation and progression.
Functional Disintegration of the Default Mode Network in Prodromal Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Dillen Kim N.H. , Jacobs Heidi I.L. , Kukolja Juraj , Richter Nils , von Reutern Boris , Onur Özgür A. , Langen Karl-Josef , Fink Gereon R.
Published: June 2017

Neurodegenerative brain changes can affect the functional connectivity strength between nodes of the default-mode network (DMN), which may underlie changes in cognitive performance. It remains unclear how the functional connectivity strength of DMN nodes differs from healthy to pathological aging and whether these changes are cognitively relevant. We used resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging to investigate the functional connectivity strength across five DMN nodes in 25 healthy controls (HC), 28 subjective cognitive decline (SCD) participants, and 25 prodromal Alzheimer’s disease (AD) patients. After identifying the ventral medial prefrontal cortex (vmPFC), posterior cingulate cortex (PCC), retrosplenial cortex (RSC), inferior parietal lobule, and the hippocampus we investigated the functional strength between DMN nodes using temporal network modeling. Functional coupling of the vmPFC and PCC in prodromal AD patients was disrupted. This vmPFC-PCC coupling correlated positively with memory performance in prodromal AD. Furthermore, the hippocampus de-coupled from posterior DMN nodes in SCD and prodromal AD patients. There was no coupling between the hippocampus and the anterior DMN. Additional mediation analyses indicated that the RSC enables communication between the hippocampus and DMN regions in HC but none of the other two groups. These results suggest an anterior-posterior disconnection and a hippocampal de-coupling from posterior DMN nodes with disease progression. Hippocampal de-coupling already occurring in SCD may provide valuable information for the development of a functional biomarker.
Neuropsychiatric Symptoms and Cognitive Impairment: Understanding the Importance of Co-Morbid Symptoms
Authors: Mortby Moyra E. , Burns Richard , Eramudugolla Ranmalee , Ismail Zahinoor , Anstey Kaarin J.
Published: June 2017

Background: Neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS) are common in older adults with cognitive impairment, yet little is known about population-based prevalence and clinical implications of co-morbid symptom presentation across the spectrum from normal cognition to dementia.

Objective: To characterize the prevalence of NPS and explore the clinical implications of co-morbid symptom presentation.

Methods: Cross-sectional study of 1,417 older adults (aged 73–79) with dementia ( n = 40); with mild cognitive impairment (MCI; n = 133); who are ‘cognitively normal, but-at-risk’ (CN-AR; n = 397); and who are cognitively normal ( n = 847). NPS were assessed by the Neuropsychiatric Inventory. Cluster analyses were conducted using a latent class analysis (LCA).

Results: NPS are highly prevalent across the cognitive function spectrum (30.8% –80%). NPS were associated with a 3-fold increased risk of dementia, a 2-fold increased risk of MCI, and a 1.5-times increased risk of CN-AR. Each additional co-morbid symptom was associated with an additional 1.5-times increased risk of dementia, but not MCI or CN-AR. LCA revealed four distinctive sub-populations: 1) frontal/low comorbidity; 2) high prevalence/high comorbidity; 3) affective/low comorbidity; and 4) sleep/low comorbidity.

Conclusion: Our findings confirm previous reports on the prevalence of NPS in community-based samples and are consistent with the profiles of NPS domain characteristics of MCI and dementia. Number of co-morbid NPS and not symptom clusters are associated with increased risk of dementia. Understanding such patterns will help inform our understanding of mild behavioral disorders and assist with clinical assessment.
Translational motion correction algorithm for truncated cone-beam CT using opposite projections
Authors: Gu Jawook , Bae Woong , Ye Jong Chul
Published: June 2017

BACKGROUND:

Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) is widely used in various medical imaging applications, including dental examinations. Dental CBCT images often suffer from motion artifacts caused by involuntary rigid motion of patients. However, earlier motion compensation studies are not applicable for dental CBCT systems using truncated detectors.

OBJECTIVE:

This study proposes a novel motion correction algorithm that can be applied for truncated dental CBCT images.

METHODS:

We propose a two-step method for motion correction. First, we estimate the relative displacement of each pair of opposite projections by finding the motion vector that maximizes the two-dimensional correlation coefficients of the opposite projections. Second, we convert the relative displacement into the absolute coordinate motion that yields the highest image sharpness of the reconstruction image. Using the motion vectors in the absolute coordinate system, motion artifacts are then compensated by modifying the trajectory of the source and detector during the back-projection step of the image reconstruction process.

RESULTS:

In simulation, the proposed method successfully estimated the true relative displacement. After converting to the absolute coordinate motions, the motion-compensated image was close to the ground-truth image and exhibited a lower mean-square-error than that of the uncompensated image. The results from the real data experiment also confirmed that the proposed method successfully compensated for the motion artifacts.

CONCLUSIONS:

The experimental results confirmed that the proposed method was applicable to most dental CBCT systems using a truncated detector without any use of an additional motion tracking system nor prior knowledge.
Disparities in liver cancer occurrence in the United States by race/ethnicity and state
Authors: Islami Farhad , Miller Kimberly D. , Siegel Rebecca L. , Fedewa Stacey A. , Ward Elizabeth M. , Jemal Ahmedin
Published: June 2017

Liver cancer is highly fatal, and death rates in the United States are increasing faster than for any other cancer, having doubled since the mid‐1980s. In 2017, it is estimated that the disease will account for about 41,000 new cancer cases and 29,000 cancer deaths in the United States. In this article, data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) Program and the National Center for Health Statistics are used to provide an overview of liver cancer incidence, mortality, and survival rates and trends, including data by race/ethnicity and state. The prevalence of major risk factors for liver cancer is also reported based on national survey data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Despite the improvement in liver cancer survival in recent decades, only 1 in 5 patients survives 5 years after diagnosis. There is substantial disparity in liver cancer death rates by race/ethnicity (from 5.5 per 100,000 in non‐Hispanic whites to 11.9 per 100,000 in American Indians/Alaska Natives) and state (from 3.8 per 100,000 in North Dakota to 9.6 per 100,000 in the District of Columbia) and by race/ethnicity within states. Differences in risk factor prevalence account for much of the observed variation in liver cancer rates. Thus, in contrast to the growing burden, a substantial proportion of liver cancer deaths could be averted, and existing disparities could be dramatically reduced, through the targeted application of existing knowledge in prevention, early detection, and treatment, including improvements in vaccination against hepatitis B virus, screening and treatment for chronic hepatitis C virus infections, maintaining a healthy body weight, access to high‐quality diabetes care, preventing excessive alcohol drinking, and tobacco control, at both the state and national levels. CA Cancer J Clin 2017;67:273–289. © 2017 American Cancer Society.
Jordan Derivations on Lie Ideals of ?-Prime Rings
Authors: Paul Akhil Chandra , Rahman Md Mizanor
Published: June 2017

In this paper we prove that, if U is a s-square closed Lie ideal of a 2-torsion free s-prime ring R and  d: R(R is an additive mapping satisfying d(u2)=d(u)u+ud(u) for all u?U then d(uv)=d(u)v+ud(v) holds for all  u,v?UGANIT J. Bangladesh Math. Soc.Vol. 36 (2016) 1-5
Effect of Radiation and Heat Generation on Unsteady MHD Flow of Non-Newtonian Fluid Along a Stretching Vertical Surface
Authors: Provat Shirin , Hossain MR , Samad MA
Published: June 2017

In this paper, the unsteady forced convection boundary-layer flow of a non-Newtonian fluid along a continuously moving stretching sheet with thermal radiation and heat generation or absorption in the presence of magnetic field has been studied. First, the governing equations have been nondimensionalized by usual transformations to obtain the similar solutions. Then, the obtained equations have been solved by an implicit finite difference method. The convergency of explicit and implicit finite difference method has also been discussed. The results are presented for the effect of various parameters such as magnetic parameter (M), radiation parameter (N), heat source parameter (Q), Prandtl number (Pr) and power-law fluid index (n). The effects of these parameters on skin-friction coefficient (Cf) and the local Nusselt number (NuL) which are of physical and engineering interest have also been studied and presented graphically.GANIT J. Bangladesh Math. Soc.Vol. 36 (2016) 7-17
A Numerical Study to Find the Effect of Boundary Conditions on Natural Convection Flow in an Open Cavity
Authors: Tasnim Nishat , Bangalee MZI
Published: June 2017

In this study, effect of boundary conditions on natural convection flow in an open cavity has been studied numerically. The computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations are performed to investigate the natural convection flow phenomena within the cavity. The ?-? turbulence model is chosen to capture the turbulence phenomena of the flow. A numerical case is chosen from literature to validate the method used in this study. For accurate prediction of the flow phenomenon a sufficiently large surrounding domain around the cavity is considered. The effects of boundary conditions applied in the apertures of the open cavity are observed.GANIT J. Bangladesh Math. Soc.Vol. 36 (2016) 47-58
Explicit Exponential Finite Difference Scheme for 1D Navier-Stokes Equation with Time Dependent Pressure Gradient
Authors: Azad MAK , Andallah LS
Published: June 2017

In this paper, numerical technique for solving the one-dimensional (1D) unsteady, incompressible Navier-Stokes equation (NSE) is presented. The governing time dependent non-linear partial equation is reduced to non-linear partial differential equation named as viscous Burgers equation by introducing Orlowski and Sobczyk transformation (OST). An explicit exponential finite difference scheme (Expo FDS) has been used for solving reduced 1D NSE. The accuracy of the method has been illustrated by taking two numerical examples. Results are compared with the analytical solutions and those obtained based on the numerical results of reduced 1D NSE as Burgers equation. The accuracy and numerical feature of convergence of the Expo FDS is presented by estimating their error norms. Excellent numerical results indicate that the proposed numerical technique is efficient admissible with efficient accuracy for the numerical solutions of the NSE.GANIT J. Bangladesh Math. Soc.Vol. 36 (2016) 79-90
Stability of BDNF in Human Samples Stored Up to 6 Months and Correlations of Serum and EDTA-Plasma Concentrations
Authors: Polyakova Maryna , Schlögl Haiko , Sacher Julia , Schmidt-Kassow Maren , Kaiser Jochen , Stumvoll Michael , Kratzsch Jürgen , Schroeter Matthias
Published: June 2017

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), an important neural growth factor, has gained growing interest in neuroscience, but many influencing physiological and analytical aspects still remain unclear. In this study we assessed the impact of storage time at room temperature, repeated freeze/thaw cycles, and storage at −80 °C up to 6 months on serum and ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA)-plasma BDNF. Furthermore, we assessed correlations of serum and plasma BDNF concentrations in two independent sets of samples. Coefficients of variations (CVs) for serum BDNF concentrations were significantly lower than CVs of plasma concentrations (n = 245, p = 0.006). Mean serum and plasma concentrations at all analyzed time points remained within the acceptable change limit of the inter-assay precision as declared by the manufacturer. Serum and plasma BDNF concentrations correlated positively in both sets of samples and at all analyzed time points of the stability assessment (r = 0.455 to rs = 0.596; p < 0.004). In summary, when considering the acceptable change limit, BDNF was stable in serum and in EDTA-plasma up to 6 months. Due to a higher reliability, we suggest favoring serum over EDTA-plasma for future experiments assessing peripheral BDNF concentrations.
MicroRNA-223-3p Regulates Ovarian Cancer Cell Proliferation and Invasion by Targeting SOX11 Expression
Authors: Fang Gang , Liu Jiao , Wang Qianna , Huang Xueqiong , Yang Runwen , Pang Yuzhou , Yang Meichun
Published: June 2017

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) often display different expression in many cancers and other diseases in current research studies. miR-223 expression is upregulated in rheumatoid arthritis. Also, miR-223 expression has been demonstrated to be highly expressed in pancreatic cancer and gastric cancer in comparison with normal tissue. However, whether miR-223 displays different expression in ovarian cancer and what its underlying functions are in ovarian cancer have remained unclear. In this study, we demonstrated that miR-223-3p was upregulated in ovarian cancer tissue. Next, we explored the functional role of miR-223-3p in ovarian cancer using SKOV3 and OVCAR3 cell lines. Our results suggested that miR-223-3p mimic promoted ovarian cancer cell proliferation, migration, and invasion in vitro. However, miR-223-3p inhibitor displayed the opposite effects. In addition, we demonstrated that miR-223-3p mimic promoted tumor growth in vivo. Furthermore, we found SOX11 (sex determining region Y-box 11) was inversely expressed with miR-223-3p in ovarian cancer (OC) cell lines and tissue specimens. miR-223-3p mimic decreased SOX11 expression. Overexpressing SOX11 inhibited ovarian cancer cell proliferation and invasion, which indicated that miR-223-3p regulated OC cell proliferation and invasion through targeting SOX11 expression. In conclusion, the findings of the present study demonstrated that miR-223-3p could be a potential therapeutic for ovarian cancer.
Peer Review in Controversial Topics—A Case Study of 9/11
Authors: Wyndham John
Published: June 2017

Beginning with an historical reminiscence, this paper examines the peer review process as experienced by authors currently seeking publication of their research in a highly controversial area. A case study of research into the events of 9/11 (11 September 2001) illustrates some of the problems in peer review arising from undue influences based on financial and political considerations. The paper suggests that ethical failures, rather than flaws in the process itself, are mainly responsible for perceived problems. The way forward lies in improved ethics and a more open process. In addition, editorial review boards and peer review strategies would help to improve the ethics of peer review in general.
Disused Religious Space: Youth Participation in Built Heritage Regeneration
Authors: Davison Karen , Russell Jenny
Published: June 2017

The rights of young people to participate in decision-making processes that affect their lives has been encouraged since the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (1989). Since then, policy-makers and planners have started to consider the views of youth, especially those aged 11–17. The size of the youth population and their feelings of social isolation are two important reasons to include them in the decision-making that affects their local built environment. Little is known about youth opinions of the built environment and in particular disused religious buildings which can become a significant part of local cultural heritage. This paper explores youth perceptions, place attachment and influence on identity of a prominent disused local Methodist church in the City of Belfast. The paper details the expressive methodological approach designed to encourage youth participation in the regeneration scheme. The findings of the study showcase the valuable connections that can be made between youth and heritage religious buildings through education programmes. The project conclusions also highlight the benefits to be gained from engaging youth in local built heritage and will be of interest to those involved in the design, planning and redevelopment processes.
The Potential in Preparing Community Health Workers to Address Hearing Loss
Authors: Sánchez Daisey , Adamovich Stephanie , Ingram Maia , Harris Frances P. , de Zapien Jill , Sánchez Adriana , Colina Sonia , Marrone Nicole
Published: June 2017

Background:In underserved areas, it is crucial to investigate ways of increasing access to hearing health care. The community health worker (CHW) is a model that has been applied to increase access in various health arenas. This article proposes further investigation into the
application of this model to audiology.Purpose:To assess the feasibility of training CHWs about hearing loss as a possible approach to increase accessibility of hearing health support services in an underserved area.Research Design:A specialized three-phase training process for
CHWs was developed, implemented, and evaluated by audiologists and public health researchers. The training process included (1) focus groups with CHWs and residents from the community to raise awareness of hearing loss among CHWs and the community; (2) a 3-hr workshop training to introduce
basic topics to prepare CHWs to identify signs of hearing loss among community members and use effective communication strategies; and (3) a 24-hr multisession, interactive training >6 weeks for CHWs who would become facilitators of educational and peer-support groups for individuals with
hearing loss and family members.Study Sample:Twelve Spanish-speaking local CHWs employed by a federally qualified health center participated in a focus group, twelve received the general training, and four individuals with prior experience as health educators received further in-person
training as facilitators of peer-education groups on hearing loss and communication.Data Collection and Analysis:Data was collected from each step of the three-phase training process. Thematic analysis was completed for the focus group data. Pre- and posttraining assessments and case
study discussions were used to analyze results for the general workshop and the in-depth training sessions.Results:CHWs increased their knowledge base and confidence in effective communication strategies and developed skills in facilitating hearing education and peer-support groups.
Through case study practice, CHWs demonstrated competencies and applied their learning to specific situations related to effective communication with hearing loss, family support, availability of assistive technology, use of hearing protection, and making referrals for hearing health care.
Needs were identified for ongoing training in the area of use of assistive technology and addressing situations of more severe hearing loss and its effects.Conclusions:Initial results suggest it is feasible to train CHWs to engage community members regarding hearing loss and facilitate
culturally relevant peer-health education and peer-support groups for individuals with hearing loss and their family members. In efforts to increase access to audiological services in rural or underserved communities, application of the CHW model with a partnership of audiologists deserves
further consideration as a viable approach.
La petite sirène, La désincarnation comme unique issue face à l’Œdipe familial
Authors: Pilyser Ève
Published: June 2017

S’attachant à une lecture littérale, perçue comme complémentaire de celle projective reconnue, du conte d’Andersen La Petite sirène , l’auteure interroge l’origine, l’ampleur et les conséquences possibles pour le vécu et le devenir d’une adolescente d’un complexe d’Œdipe transgénérationnel.
Minerve et Barbe Bleue
Authors: Binet Carleen
Published: June 2017

À partir d’une réflexion de l’analyste sur Barbe Bleue nous suivons le déroulement de l’analyse d’une femme bloquée dans une relation sadomasochiste, sous l’emprise d’imagos parentales non différenciées. Une circumbulatio autour de ses rêves et souvenirs, l’appui contenant du cadre lui permirent de régresser vers un fond archaïque et mortifère dont elle se défendait par la prééminence d’une arrogante fonction pensée. L’amplification et l’imagination active permirent à l’analysante de s’appuyer sur des figures féminines positives et de retrouver le chemin de sa créativité, de son autonomie et d’une féminité assumée.
De Charles Perrault à Amélie Nothomb
Authors: Fonseca Christiane
Published: June 2017

En dépit d’un certain nombre de points communs entre La Barbe Bleue de Perrault et le Barbe Bleue d’Amélie Nothomb, les différences sont frappantes : en effet, les rôles des personnages masculins et féminins sont complètement inversés. La Barbe Bleue de Perrault est un homme fortuné, bestial et monstrueux. Il interdit à son épouse d’ouvrir la porte d’un cabinet secret. Sans expérience et sans défense, elle cède à sa curiosité et n’échappe à la mort que grâce à ses frères. Au contraire, Don Elemirio, le Barbe Bleue d’Amélie Nothomb, est un noble espagnol, esthète, épris de l’or comme un alchimiste. Il interdit aussi l’accès d’une chambre noire à sa colocataire dont il tombe amoureux. Féministe et rationnelle, elle lui tient tête et, même au moment où elle commence à l’aimer, elle l’entraîne dans la mort mais, mystérieusement, elle perd aussi la vie. La violence archaïque, présente en chacun de nous, demeure une source d’effroi et de fascination.
Barbe Bleue et nous
Authors: Gaillard Christian
Published: June 2017

Dans ces deux articles, l’auteur se propose de dégager l’enjeu structurellement et radicalement commun aux différentes versions de l’histoire de Barbe Bleue en analysant ce qui s’en trouve plus ou moins exprimé dans le conte de Perrault, dans les gravures réalisées à ce propos par Gustave Doré, et dans une psychanalyse d’aujourd’hui. Il montre tout d’abord comment les gravures de Gustave Doré font voir et vivre, et par là révèlent, ce que Perrault a raconté à sa manière en en faisant un conte pour enfants assorti de « morales » bien rassurantes. Il s’appuie alors sur certains moments des Souvenirs de Jung et sur un précédent essai qu’il a consacré à « Jung, Picasso et le bleu », pour montrer qu’il s’agit là en fait d’une nekyia dont il faut se demander comment on peut se sortir. De là, en un deuxième temps, il montre comment une jeune femme d’aujourd’hui en est venue à se resituer dans son histoire en s’engageant dans ce qu’il appelle « les quatre dimensions d’une analyse » : le décours de la vie au fil d’une analyse, la reviviscence de l’enfance, les transformations de la vie imaginaire et symbolique, l’expérience et l’analyse de la relation transférentielle.
Cuatro textos aljamiados
Authors: Suárez García Raquel
Published: June 2017

Este trabajo presenta la edición completa de los 85 folios conservados que forman el manuscrito 614 de la Biliothèque nationale d’Algérie, uno de los dos únicos manuscritos aljamiado-moriscos que se conservan en el norte de África. Este manuscrito contiene cuatro textos distintos: La alguacía de cAlī (fols. 1r.º-37r.º), los castigos del ficho de ’Ādam (fols. 37v.º-54v.º), Las demandas de los diez sabios chudíos con l-anabī Muhammad (fols. 55v.º-77r.º) y el Capítulo de lo que á de creer y-obrar el muçlim (fols. 78r.º-85v.º). Esta edición del ms. BNA 614 tiene como objetivo dar a conocer la versión concreta que presentan las piezas que lo integran, reflejando tanto sus particularidades textuales como sus peculiaridades lingüísticas y gráficas.
TLR9 Regulates the NF-κB–NLRP3–IL-1β Pathway Negatively in Salmonella-Induced NKG2D-Mediated Intestinal Inflammation
Authors: Li Yan , Liu Meifang , Zuo Zengyan , Liu Jing , Yu Xin , Guan Yun , Zhan Renhui , Han Qiuju , Zhang Jian , Zhou Rongbin , Sun Rui , Tian Zhigang , Zhang Cai
Published: June 2017

TLRs are key sensors for conserved bacterial molecules and play a critical role in host defense against invading pathogens. Although the roles of TLRs in defense against pathogen infection and in maintaining gut immune homeostasis have been studied, the precise functions of different TLRs in response to pathogen infection in the gut remain elusive. The present study investigated the role of TLR signaling in defense against the Gram-negative bacterial pathogen Salmonella typhimurium. The results indicated that TLR9-deficient mice were more susceptible to S. typhimurium infection compared with wild-type and TLR2- or TLR4-deficient mice, as indicated by more severe intestinal damage and the highest bacterial load. TLR9 deficiency in intestinal epithelial cells (IECs) augmented the activation of NF-κB and NLRP3 inflammasomes significantly, resulting in increased secretion of IL-1β. IL-1β increased the expression of NKG2D on intestinal intraepithelial lymphocytes and NKG2D ligands on IECs, resulting in higher susceptibility of IECs to cytotoxicity of intestinal intraepithelial lymphocytes and damage to the epithelial barrier. We proposed that TLR9 regulates the NF-κB–NLRP3–IL-1β pathway negatively in Salmonella-induced NKG2D-mediated intestinal inflammation and plays a critical role in defense against S. typhimurium infection and in the protection of intestinal integrity.
Monoclonal Invariant NKT (iNKT) Cell Mice Reveal a Role for Both Tissue of Origin and the TCR in Development of iNKT Functional Subsets
Authors: Clancy-Thompson Eleanor , Chen Gui Zhen , Tyler Paul M. , Servos Mariah M. , Barisa Marta , Brennan Patrick J. , Ploegh Hidde L. , Dougan Stephanie K.
Published: June 2017

Invariant NKT (iNKT) cell functional subsets are defined by key transcription factors and output of cytokines, such as IL-4, IFN-γ, IL-17, and IL-10. To examine how TCR specificity determines iNKT function, we used somatic cell nuclear transfer to generate three lines of mice cloned from iNKT nuclei. Each line uses the invariant Vα14Jα18 TCRα paired with unique Vβ7 or Vβ8.2 subunits. We examined tissue homing, expression of PLZF, T-bet, and RORγt, and cytokine profiles and found that, although monoclonal iNKT cells differentiated into all functional subsets, the NKT17 lineage was reduced or expanded depending on the TCR expressed. We examined iNKT thymic development in limited-dilution bone marrow chimeras and show that higher TCR avidity correlates with higher PLZF and reduced T-bet expression. iNKT functional subsets showed distinct tissue distribution patterns. Although each individual monoclonal TCR showed an inherent subset distribution preference that was evident across all tissues examined, the iNKT cytokine profile differed more by tissue of origin than by TCR specificity.
Athletic Trainers' Current Knowledge and Envisioned Use of Foundational Evidence-Based Practice Concepts
Authors: Manspeaker Sarah A. , Hankemeier Dorice A.
Published: June 2017

Context:

The Board of Certification (BOC) requires 10 continuing education units (CEUs) in evidence-based practice (EBP) each reporting period. It is unknown whether participation in programming in the Foundations category for CEUs results in improved knowledge of and confidence in EBP.

Objective:

To examine a continuing professional education (CPE) program in relation to perceived knowledge of and confidence in EBP concepts among athletic trainers (ATs) and to determine ATs' perceptions regarding barriers to, use of, and resources for EBP.

Design:

Mixed-methods, within-subjects design; preintervention-postintervention evaluation of ATs' EBP knowledge and perceptions.

Setting:

A CPE workshop hosted at 2 Division I universities.

Patients or Other Participants:

Convenience sample of 123 AT workshop attendees.

Intervention(s):

Five-hour BOC-approved Foundations of EBP workshop.

Main Outcome Measure(s):

The Evidence-Based Concepts: Knowledge, Attitudes, and Use survey. The ATs' EBP knowledge was assessed via multiple-choice questions. Descriptive statistics, differences between scores, and correlations were ascertained. Open-ended questions were classified according to common themes and coded.

Results:

The 11-point knowledge score showed knowledge increased significantly (t = −12.42, P < .001, d = 1.31, 95% confidence interval = −2.41, −1.75) preworkshop (mean = 6.39 ± 1.63) to postworkshop (mean = 8.47 ± 1.55). Confidence in knowledge increased significantly (z = −9.51, P < .001) preworkshop (median = 26) to postworkshop (median = 38). The ATs identified barriers to EBP use as time, resources, environment, and experience in EBP; envisioned use of EBP included implementing patient-reported outcomes and internet resources.

Conclusions:

This workshop demonstrated improved immediate perceived knowledge and confidence in EBP concepts. Although a larger number of clinical EBP programs have been approved by the BOC, Foundations of EBP programming is valuable for CEU opportunities to narrow the gap regarding EBP knowledge. Future investigations may evaluate transference of EBP knowledge into professional practice.