bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neuropeptide Arginine Vasotocin Positively Affects Neurosteroidogenesis in the Early Brain of Grouper, Epinephelus coioides
Authors: Nagarajan G. , Aruna A. , Chang C.‐F.
Published: July 2015

The neuropeptide arginine vasotocin (AVT) has versatile physiological functions in non‐mammalian vertebrates. However, the functional association between AVT and neurosteroidogenesis in the early brain of teleosts remains elusive. We thus studied the developmental expression patterns of the avt gene and their V1 type receptor (avt‐rv1) at various stages of development [90–150 days after hatching (dah)] in relation to neurosteroidogenesis and oestrogen signalling in the early brain of the orange‐spotted grouper (Epinephelus coioides). avt and avt‐rv1 mRNAs displayed a significantly increase in expression at 110 dah in the telencephalon and diencephalon. Further, avt mRNAs were localised in three magnocellular neuronal populations of the preoptic area, such as parvocellular, magnocellular and gigantocellular preoptic neurones. Intriguingly, the avt transcripts in those neurones were more abundant in 110 dah compared to other ages. Subsequently, dual fluorescence in situ hybridisation analysis showed that the avt and avt‐rv1 genes were highly coexpressed with cyp11a1, hsd3b1, cyp17a1, erα, erβ and gpr30, which indicates their potential for functional association. Cyp19a1b‐immunoreactive positive fibres were found in close proximity to avt‐expressing neurones. Moreover, our results showed that exogenous Avt caused a significant increase in the cellular and gene levels of steroidogenic enzymes and oestrogen receptors (ers), whereas the administration of an Avt‐rv1 antagonist caused a decrease in the expression of both steroidogenic enzymes and ers genes in the brain. Furthermore, exogenous oestradiol (E2) strongly up‐regulated avt mRNAs in the grouper brain. Taken together, the present studies suggest that avt and steroidogenesis may positively work together to increase both E2 biosynthesis and early brain development.
Comparison between the efficacy and safety of platelet‐rich plasma vs. microdermabrasion in the treatment of striae distensae: clinical and histopathological study
Authors: Ibrahim Zeinab Abd El‐Samad , El‐Tatawy Rania Ahmed , El‐Samongy Marwa Ahmed , Ali Dareen Abdelaziz Mohammed
Published: July 2015

Striae distensae is a challenging cosmetic problem for which various treatment modalities have been applied. To compare between the efficacy and tolerability of intradermal injection of autologous platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) vs. microdermabrasion in the treatment of striae distensae. Sixty‐eight patients with striae distensae were randomly assigned to three groups according to therapeutic modalities. Patients of group I were treated by intradermal injection of PRP alone, patients of group II were treated with microdermabrasion alone, and patients of group III were treated with combination of intradermal PRP and microdermabrasion in the same session. Each patient underwent maximum of six sessions at 2‐week interval. Skin biopsies were taken from some patients at baseline, and 3 months after the last sessions stained with hematoxylin and eosin stain, Masson trichrome, orceun, and Van Gieson stains to study of histopathological changes and efficacy of treatment. There was significant clinical improvement of striae distensae in patients treated with PRP injection and patients treated with combination of PRP and microdermabrasion when compared with patients treated with microdermabrasion. However, combination of PRP and microdermabrasion in the same session showed better results in short duration. Collagen and elastic fibers were markedly increased in the dermis at the end of treatment sessions. Platelet‐rich plasma alone is more effective than microdermabrasion alone in the treatment of striae distensae, but it is better to use the combination of both for more and rapid efficacy. However, each one of them is well tolerated by the patients, safe and cost effective.
Place, Personalism, Anarchism, & Fantasy: Recasting Late Modernism
Authors: Gifford James
Published: July 2015

This essay outlines an ongoing critical intervention in the growing field of late modernist studies by recuperating anarchism as a political philosophy for English language writers of the 1930s and 1940s. The first section gives an overview of the development of late modernism as a critical category and how its early basis in Marxist criticism developed from the Auden generation. The second section traces new and expanded international networks made visible through attention to anarchist rather than Marxist sensibilities. The third section considers the development of fantasy genre fiction based on the emergence of major authors from the antiauthoritarian literary networks outlined and as a continuation of the political transformation of activism to literary aesthetics and form. The conclusion anticipates coming expansions in the critical corpus through attentiveness to anarchism more broadly in late modernist studies and the new modernist studies generally.
I148M variant in PNPLA3 reduces central adiposity and metabolic disease risks while increasing nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Park Jin‐Ho , Cho BeLong , Kwon Hyuktae , Prilutsky Daria , Yun Jae Moon , Choi Ho Chun , Hwang Kyu‐Baek , Lee In‐Hee , Kim Jong‐Il , Kong Sek Won
Published: July 2015

Background & Aims

The I148M variant because of the substitution of C to G in PNPLA3 (rs738409) is associated with the increased risk of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). In liver, I148M variant reduces hydrolytic function of PNPLA3, which results in hepatic steatosis; however, its association with the other clinical phenotype such as adiposity and metabolic diseases is not well established.

Methods

To identify the impact of I148M variant on clinical risk factors of NAFLD, we recruited 1363 generally healthy Korean males after excluding alcoholic and secondary causes of hepatic steatosis. Central adiposity was assessed by computed tomography, and hepatic steatosis was evaluated by abdominal ultrasonography.

Results

The participants were predominantly middle‐aged (49.0 ± 7.1 years; range 30–60 years), and the frequency of NAFLD was 44.2%. The rs738409‐G allele carriers had a 1.19‐fold increased risk for NAFLD (minor allele frequency 0.43; allelic odds ratio 1.38; P = 4.3 × 10−5). Interestingly, the rs738409 GG carriers showed significantly lower levels of visceral and subcutaneous adiposity (P < 0.001 and = 0.015, respectively), BMI (P < 0.001), triglycerides (P < 0.001) and insulin resistance (P = 0.002) compared to CC carriers. These negative associations between clinical risk factors and rs738409‐G dosage were more prominent in non‐NAFLD group compared to those in NAFLD group.

Conclusions

The I148M variant, although increasing the risk of NAFLD, was associated with reduced levels of central adiposity, BMI, serum triglycerides and insulin resistance, suggesting differential roles in fat storage and distribution according to cell types and metabolic status.
Stratification and water quality of an abandoned opencast coal pit lake at Raniganj Coalfield Area, West Bengal, India
Authors: Mondal Subinoy , Mukherjee Aloke K. , Senapati Tarakeshwar , Pal Sandipan , Haque Smaranya , Ghosh Apurba R.
Published: July 2015

Stratification and assessment of the limnological conditions of an abandoned opencast coal pit (OCP), locally called Khadan, which is a potential water reserve located at the Raniganj‐Asansol Coalfield Areas of Burdwan, are the main objectives of this study. Water quality changes occurred with increasing depths in the OCP water and suggest a gradual and significant ecological restoration over time, which can create a condition of sustainable pisciculture. The physical and chemical variables of the OCP water changed with changing depths and seasons. The temperature and alkalinity decreased with depth throughout the year. The dissolved oxygen concentration exhibited a mixing characteristic in the summer and winter, but decreased with depth in the monsoon and postmonsoon seasons. The total hardness increased with depth in the monsoon season, being maximum in the winter (196.0 mg L−1). The biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) and chemical oxygen demand (COD) increased with depth in the winter. The silicon concentration increased with depths, exhibiting a maximum value of 14.2 mg L−1 in the winter and a minimum value of 1.24 mg L−1 in the postmonsoon season. The ammonia‐nitrogen, nitrate‐nitrogen, potassium, chloride and sulphate concentrations only exhibited seasonal variations. The concentration of heavy metals (arsenic, chromium, cadmium, manganese) decreased with increasing depth. The fluoride concentration exhibited high concentrations in each OCP water layer. The results of this study indicated that limnological variables in thermally stratified lakes may be an important measure for better understanding the gradual process of developing an improved ecological conditions in the OCP and which can facilitate the possibility of pisciculture in the near future.
Effects of human activities on benthic macroinvertebrate community composition and water quality in the upper catchment of the Mara River Basin, Kenya
Authors: Gichana Zipporah , Njiru Murithi , Raburu Phillip Okoth , Masese Frank Onderi
Published: July 2015

Land‐use changes in the upper reaches of the Mara River Basin have modified their biophysical and hydrological processes, resulting in water quality degradation in streams. This study was conducted to investigate the effects of human activities on water quality and macroinvertebrates along the Nyangores River, one of the main tributaries of the Mara River, Kenya. Seven sampling sites were chosen to correspond to the loss of riparian cover, livestock watering and human activities (e.g. laundry washing, bathing, cultivation, wastewater inputs, dumping of solid wastes from urban areas and settlements along the river). Physical–chemical variables and water samples for nutrient analyses were collected monthly from February to July 2012. Benthic macroinvertebrates also were collected at the same sites as for the water quality samples. Two‐way analysis of variance tested the significant differences for each variable among the sites. Similarity percentages (SIMPER) analysis was used to identify the key taxa contributing to differences between minimally disturbed and most disturbed conditions in the study area. The results indicated increased nutrient concentrations in agricultural and settlement areas. Significant (P < 0.05) spatial–temporal variations in water quality variables were observed. A total of 42 macroinvertebrate genera were encountered, with Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera orders dominating the minimally disturbed areas, and Diptera dominating the disturbed areas receiving point and no‐point solid and liquid wastes, including nutrients, from urban areas and settlements. Canonical correspondence analysis (CCA) revealed significant relationships between macroinvertebrate communities and measured physicochemical variables. The results of this study indicate the need for protection of riparian zones and treatment of sewerage wastes before their release into waterways. The dumping of solid wastes near streams and rivers also is discouraged, to maintain the quality of surface waters and aquatic organisms.
Life history of the sand fly vector Lutzomyia cruciata in laboratory conditions
Authors: CASTILLO A. , SERRANO A. K. , MIKERY O. F. , PÉREZ J.
Published: July 2015

Lutzomyia cruciata Coquillet (Diptera: Psychodidae: Phlebotominae) is a potential vector of Leishmania sp.; its geographical distribution in Mexico is widespread, but its life history is unknown. The present study gives relevant information on the life cycle, morphology, survival and reproduction of Lu. cruciata observed over successive generations under laboratory conditions. Seven successive generations were produced. A total of 975 adults were obtained in a sexual proportion of 1.1 : 1 (female : male). Each Lu. cruciata female produced 20.7 eggs and 1.9 adults, approximately, with a proportion of eggs per female of 2.7% (first generation) and 21.3% (second generation). The life cycle of Lu. cruciata, from egg to adult, occurred in 52.7 ± 0.52 days. The largest percentage of mortality occurred during the egg stage (48.5%) and the first larval instar (26.5%), whereas in the pupal stage mortality was the lowest (9.1%). Lutzomyia cruciata exhibits sexual dimorphism based on size, which is exhibited as of the second larval instar, males being smaller than females. The maximum survival of females and males was 10 and 15 days, respectively. An overview of the immature stages of the species made with an electronic scanning microscope is included. This paper contributes basic information on aspects of Lu. cruciata that were previously unknown related to its life history.
The role of stoichiometric flexibility in modelling forest ecosystem responses to nitrogen fertilization
Authors: Meyerholt Johannes , Zaehle Sönke
Published: July 2015

The response of the forest carbon (C) balance to changes in nitrogen (N) deposition is uncertain, partly owing to diverging representations of N cycle processes in dynamic global vegetation models (DGVMs). Here, we examined how different assumptions about the degree of flexibility of the ecosystem's C : N ratios contribute to this uncertainty, and which of these assumptions best correspond to the available data.

We applied these assumptions within the framework of a DGVM and compared the results to responses in net primary productivity (NPP), leaf N concentration, and ecosystem N partitioning, observed at 22 forest N fertilization experiments.

Employing flexible ecosystem pool C : N ratios generally resulted in the most convincing model–data agreement with respect to production and foliar N responses. An intermediate degree of stoichiometric flexibility in vegetation, where wood C : N ratio changes were decoupled from leaf and root C : N ratio changes, led to consistent simulation of production and N cycle responses to N addition. Assuming fixed C : N ratios or scaling leaf N concentration changes to other tissues, commonly assumed by DGVMs, was not supported by reported data.

Between the tested assumptions, the simulated changes in ecosystem C storage relative to changes in C assimilation varied by up to 20%.
The immunomodulatory function of mesenchymal stem cells: mode of action and pathways
Authors: Uccelli Antonio , de Rosbo Nicole Kerlero
Published: July 2015

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are being increasingly investigated as a therapeutic alternative, not only for their possible regenerative potential but also for their immunomodulatory action, which is being exploited for controlling diseases associated with inflammation. Understanding their direct and indirect target cells, as well as their mode of action and relevant pathways, is a prerequisite for the appropriate and optimal use of MSCs in therapy. Here, we review recent findings on the effects of MSCs on adaptive and innate immune cells. We also consider the impact of the environment on MSC profile, both anti‐ and proinflammatory, and the mechanisms and molecular pathways through which their effects are mediated, both at the MSC and target cell levels.
Massive pericardial effusion due to intrapericardial mixed germ cell tumor in a premature baby
Authors: Doksöz Önder , Terek Demet Tümay , Karaçelik Mustafa , Yıldırım Hülya Tosun , Demirağ Bengü , Meşe Timur , Sarıosmanoğlu Osman Nejat , Arslanoğlu Sertaç
Published: July 2015

Primary cardiac tumor is uncommon in childhood, with an incidence of 0.06–0.32%, and intrapericardial teratoma represents an exceptional rarity among these entities. Germ cell tumors (GCT) are rare, representing only 1–3% of childhood tumors. Twenty per cent of GCT are malignant and are associated with age and location. Extragonadal involvement accounts for nearly half of the cases. Anterior mediastinum is a common location of malignant germ cell tumors, yet pericardial and aortic adventitia involvement have been rarely reported. Here we report the case of a preterm twin baby boy with intrapericardial mixed germ cell tumor who presented with hydrops fetalis and pericardial effusion.
Divine Presence in Ancient Near Eastern Temples
Authors: Hundley Michael B.
Published: July 2015

This article addresses ancient Near Eastern conceptions of divine presence in the realm of the temple, considering evidence from Egypt, Mesopotamia, Hittite Anatolia, and Syria‐Palestine. It analyzes the perceived religious function of ancient Near Eastern temples, cult images, the installation and maintenance of divine presence, as well as the complicated relationship between the deity and its cult image and between a deity's various cult images.
Efficacy of walking aids on self‐paced outdoor walking in individuals with COPD: A randomized cross‐over trial
Authors: Vaes Anouk W. , Meijer Kenneth , Delbressine Jeannet M. , Wiechert Jozé , Willems Paul , Wouters Emiel F.M. , Franssen Frits M.E. , Spruit Martijn A.
Published: July 2015

Background and objective

Walking aids, such as rollator or draisine, improve mobility and functional exercise performance in individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) during an indoor 6‐min walk test. However, this test does not reflect everyday walking, which is the most frequently reported problematic activity of daily life in individuals with COPD. To date, efficacy of walking aids during self‐paced outdoor walking remains unknown. Therefore, we aimed to determine the efficacy of a rollator and draisine on self‐paced outdoor walking in individuals with COPD.

Methods

Fifteen individuals with COPD (68% men; age: 63 ± 8 years; forced expiratory volume in 1 s: 40 ± 14% predicted) performed three self‐paced outdoor walking tests on two consecutive days: test 1 unaided, and tests 2 and 3 with rollator or draisine in random order. Participants had to walk as long as possible at their own pace. The test ended when participants needed to stop, with a maximum duration of 30 min.

Results

The use of rollator resulted in the highest walk distance and time (P < 0.05 vs unaided and draisine). Furthermore, individuals with COPD walked significantly further and longer during an unaided test compared with a draisine aided test (P < 0.05). Moreover, use of draisine resulted in a significantly higher walking speed, fewer strides, greater stride length, and higher step and stride variability (P < 0.05 vs unaided and rollator).

Conclusion

To conclude, a rollator improves the self‐paced outdoor walk distance and time in individuals with moderate and advanced COPD and a poor functional exercise capacity, whereas the use of a draisine had a detrimental effect compared with unaided walking.
On‐line management of siloxane breakthrough in carbon contactors using changepoint detection
Authors: Hepburn Caroline A. , Daneshkhah Alireza , Simms Nigel J. , McAdam Ewan J.
Published: July 2015

Siloxane‐induced damage is responsible for a significant proportion of the cost of producing electricity from biogas. The performance of siloxane removal vessels is currently determined by discrete sampling followed by analysis at an external laboratory, making refined process control difficult to achieve. This article introduces the use of on‐line siloxane detection. Siloxane breakthrough curves within this article identified that upon approaching media exhaustion, a concentration of 30 mg/m3was reached within a short time frame. Consequently, changepoint analysis was evaluated as a method to predict the onset of breakthrough. Breakthrough data were collated from vessels that exhibited both broad‐fronted and sharp‐fronted breakthrough profiles. When applied to broad‐fronted profiles, changepoint analysis provided a 25–45 h early warning of breakthrough. In this case, probabilistic changepoint detection methods facilitated by on‐line analysis provide sufficient process lag time to enable duty/standby switch over before the critical siloxane concentration is reached.
‘Native’ and ‘non‐native’ perception of stress in Singapore English
Authors: TAN YING‐YING
Published: July 2015

Many scholars have noted how Singapore English (SgE) exhibits different stress placement patterns as compared to British or American English. Much work has also been done to suggest that such deviations of stress placement patterns from the traditional ‘native’ norms create problems for intelligibility. This study is concerned with the way stress in SgE is perceived by speakers of different Englishes, comparing specifically two groups of participants: the speakers of SgE; and the speakers of British, American and Australian Englishes (the traditional Inner Circle English speakers). The analyses of a perception test indicate that stress is perceived differently between speakers of different Englishes.
Apparent beam size definition of focused ion beams based on scanning electron microscopy images of nanodots
Authors: Vladov Nikola , Segal Joel , Ratchev Svetan
Published: July 2015

In this paper, the new term apparent beam size of focused ion beam (FIB) is introduced and an original method of its evaluation is demonstrated. Traditional methods of measuring the beam size, like the knife edge method, provide information about the quality of the beam itself, but practically, they do not give information on the FIB sputtering resolution. To do this, it is necessary to take into account the material dependent interaction of the beam with the specimen and the gas precursor in the vacuum chamber. The apparent beam size can be regarded as the smallest possible dot that FIB can sputter in a given specimen. The method of evaluating it, developed in this paper, is based on the analysis of a series of scanning electron images of FIB produced nanodots. Results show that the apparent beam size can be up to five times larger than the actual physical size of the beam and it is significantly influenced by the presence of gas precursor. It is also demonstrated that the apparent beam size can be used as a reference value for optimization of the beam step during raster scanning.
Predicting Homesickness in Residential Athletes
Authors: Smith Brendan , Hanrahan Stephanie , Anderson Ruth , Abbott Lyndel
Published: July 2015

Leaving home or transitioning to another environment is a part of every individual’s personal growth and is often considered to be a significant developmental milestone. The distress that individuals experience with this transition has been identified as homesickness. Elite sporting institutions, such as the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS), have recognized that problems associated with homesickness appear to be a predominant cause of poor well-being and dropout among athletes living in a national sports institute. This study aimed to investigate if individual personality traits and coping styles could predict levels of homesickness in these athletes. Neuroticism, self-esteem, and mental escape were significant predictors of homesickness. These results suggest that athletes who are vulnerable to homesickness can be identified before the commencement of their sporting scholarships so they can be treated accordingly.
An unusual pharyngeal mass
Authors: Couzins Michael , Ishii Hirotaka , Ward Matthew J , Brockbank Michael J
Published: July 2015

A 37-year-old man presented with an abnormal pharyngeal sensation. Nasendoscopy demonstrated a mass projecting from the left pharyngeal wall, which could be pushed medially with external pressure. A CT scan demonstrated a fracture of the hyoid. On further questioning, the patient stated that he practised Jujitsu, a sport involving various strangling manoeuvres. He underwent a pharyngoscopy and out-fracturing of the hyoid, resulting in complete resolution of his symptoms. Hyoid fractures are uncommon and can be difficult to identify clinically, but the serious nature of associated complications highlights the importance of making the diagnosis.
Molten metal ocular burn: long-term outcome using simple limbal epithelial transplantation
Authors: Das Shilpa , Basu Sayan , Sangwan Virender
Published: July 2015

One day after molten aluminium had fallen into his right eye, a young man presented to our clinic with a vision of counting fingers at 1 m, conjunctival and corneal epithelial defects, and limbal involvement. He was diagnosed with grade 4 thermal burn and managed medically. Subsequently, the inflammation resolved, however, he developed pannus with conjunctivalisation and scarring of cornea suggestive of partial unilateral limbal stem cell deficiency. He was treated surgically with autologous simple limbal epithelial transplantation (SLET). Postoperatively, his vision improved along with corneal clarity. He achieved a best corrected vision of 20/50 at the last follow-up 27 months postsurgery, with maintenance of a healthy corneal epithelium. This case describes the different management strategies employed in two different stages of an ocular burn. It highlights the long-term success of SLET in a case of ocular surface thermal burn.
Vertebral–venous fistula: an unusual cause for ocular symptoms mimicking a carotid cavernous fistula
Authors: Felbaum Daniel , Chidambaram Swathi , Mason Robert Bryan , Armonda Rocco A , Liu Ai Hsi
Published: July 2015

Vertebral–venous fistulas (VVF), or vertebral–vertebral arteriovenous fistulas, are an uncommon clinical entity. Typically, they present as a result of a direct vascular connection between an extracranial branch of the vertebral artery or its radicular components and the epidural venous plexus. These may manifest with signs and symptoms referable to cervical myelopathy secondary to compression or steal phenomenon. To our knowledge, this is the first case to identify a patient who presented with classic ocular symptoms attributable to a carotid cavernous fistula but secondary to a VVF. We present its treatment and clinical outcome. In addition, we present a brief literature review surrounding this uncommon disease.
Spontaneous thrombosis of a basilar tip aneurysm after ventriculoperitoneal shunting
Authors: Pop Raoul , Chibarro Salvatore , Manisor Monica , Proust Francois , Beaujeux Remy
Published: July 2015

We present a case of a large unruptured basilar tip aneurysm with concomitant hydrocephalus. Complete thrombosis of the aneurysm was observed after ventriculoperitoneal shunting. Analyzing preoperative and postoperative MRI and DSA images, we identified reduced intracranial pressure and widening of the aneurysm–artery inclination angle as possible factors influencing spontaneous thrombosis. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of aneurysm thrombosis occurring after CSF diversion.
Acute necrotising pancreatitis derived from low-dose corticosteroid use: an important reminder of clinical management
Authors: Sabre Alexander , Guthrie Morgan Mary , Maleknia Reza
Published: July 2015

Although the exact mechanism is unknown, incidence of drug-induced pancreatitis from corticosteroids is well established in the medical literature. Commonly reported in chronic steroid-dependent individuals who require large doses for a wide array of pathologies, the incidence of damage to the pancreas from low-doses have not been well described. We report a case of a 68-year-old woman who presented with severe abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, 3 days after the initiation of low-dose methylprednisolone for osteoarthritis. Inpatient laboratory analysis revealed an elevated lipase of 1770 U/L and CT scan showing extensive necrotising pancreatitis involving the head, body and tail. Cessation of the causative medication and conservative treatment successfully led to resolution of symptoms. We present this case to inform clinicians of the precipitance of pancreatitis from modest strength corticosteroid management, so that more accurate and improved performance in pharmacological decisions can be made for patient care.
Thrombotic popliteal block following simultaneous bi-cruciate single-stage arthroscopic reconstruction in a neglected multiligamentous knee injury in a smoker
Authors: Panigrahi Ranajit , Mahapatra Amita Kumari , Palo Nishit , Priyadarshi Ashok
Published: July 2015

We report a case of neglected multiligamentous injury that developed a complete thrombotic popliteal artery block following arthroscopic surgery. A 56-year-old man, a farmer, presented with an 8-month history of instability of the right knee. Examination revealed ipsilateral anterior (ACL)/posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) injuries. MRI and diagnostic arthroscopy confirmed complete ACL/PCL tear. Single-stage arthroscopic ACL/PCL reconstruction was performed. Postsurgery, the operated limb appeared swollen, firm and cold, without sensation or toe movement. Angiogram revealed complete thrombotic block of left popliteal artery. Fogarty’s catheterism was performed and distal vascularity re-established. At 28 months, the patient was back at work with good functional outcome. We failed to examine the patient preoperatively in spite of his advanced age, history of beedi smoking and tobacco use, and presence of feeble vascular pulsations with thickened skin over leg and foot. Thus, in multiligamentous injuries, patient selection and thorough detailed clinical examination are the keys to successful arthroscopic procedures.
Dysphagia, dysphonia and sore throat following cerebral infarction: an unexpected cause
Authors: Slade Peter Michael Edward , Larsen Matthew Peter
Published: July 2015

A 75-year-old woman presented with left-sided weakness. There was no speech disturbance or reported swallowing difficulties. CT of the head revealed infarction in the territory of the right middle cerebral artery. The patient was transferred to the acute stroke unit and a nasogastric tube was placed following a failed swallow screening test. The following day, on assessment, there was considerable pain on swallowing. The tone and quality of the patient's voice had deteriorated and there was significant dysphagia. Seven days later a plastic item, later identified as the patient's denture, was expectorated. Following this, the dysphagia, dysphonia and sore throat rapidly resolved. The case highlights the importance of considering foreign body in the differential, and oral cavity examination in the assessment of a patient with dysphagia and sore throat is essential.
Clostridium difficileinfection after ileostomy closure mimicking anastomotic leak
Authors: Almerie Muhammad Qutayba , Culverwell Adam , Mahon Christopher
Published: July 2015

Clostridium difficileinfection is linked to antibiotic exposure, with elderly and immunocompromised hospitalised patients being particularly at risk. The symptoms range from mild diarrhoea to life-threatening fulminant colitis. We describe an unusual presentation ofC. difficileinfection after closure of ileostomy in a healthy 60-year-old man with a history of low anterior resection and defunctioning ileostomy for rectal tumour. On the third day postoperatively, the patient developed left lower abdominal pain and profuse diarrhoea. With worsening symptoms and steadily increasing inflammatory markers over the following few days, concerns were raised about an anastomotic leak with pelvic abscess. CT of the abdomen/pelvis on day 7 surprisingly showed colitis in the neorectum/sigmoid colon. A stool test confirmedC. difficileinfection.
Chronic subclinical perforation of a duodenal ulcer presenting with an abdominal abscess in a patient with seronegative rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Ashfaq Awais , Chapital Alyssa B
Published: July 2015

Peptic ulcer disease has been a major problem since the turn of this century with high morbidity and mortality. Perforation is less common, with an estimated incidence of 7–10 per 100 000. We present a young woman with rheumatoid arthritis presenting with anaemia. On work up, she was found to have a chronic abdominal abscess secondary to subclinical perforation of a duodenal ulcer. After undergoing percutaneous drainage, she became haemodynamically unstable and was taken for surgical washout and jejunostomy tube placement. A week later she had a decrease in the size of the abscess and was discharged home with drain and tube feeds. At her follow-up a few weeks later, she was tolerating goal tube feeds.
Impact of the Great East Japan Earthquake tsunami on growth and survival of Pacific cod (Gadus macrocephalus)
Authors: Narimatsu Yoji , Kakehi Shigeho , Ito Shin-ichi , Okazaki Yuji , Inagawa Ryo , Yano Toshikazu
Published: July 2015

A massive tsunami hit the north Pacific coast of Japan on 11 March 2011. We evaluated the effects of the tsunami on the distribution, growth, and survival of young Pacific cod (Gadus macrocephalus) using data from benthic trawl surveys and otolith microstructure analysis. The distribution of Pacific cod juveniles differed between 2011 and 2008–2010. The 2011 year class was smaller in body size than those in 2008–2010. The majority of 2011 year-class juveniles was captured in deeper areas at a smaller body size, whereas those of previous year classes were primarily distributed in shallower water. The peak hatch of the 2011 year-class juveniles was from early to late February, which was several days later than those of the 2008 and 2010 year classes. The 2011 year class grew at the same rate as those from 2008 and 2010 until the day of the tsunami, but had a lower growth rate during the 30 days after the tsunami, resulting in a decrease in fish size at settlement. Growth of the 2011 year class was also inferior soon after the day of the tsunami in almost all groups divided by the hatching period. Growth of juveniles captured in shallower water following the tsunami in 2011 tended to be slower than that of juveniles captured in deeper water. Our results suggest that the tsunami caused a decrease in growth rates for approximately 30 days and a change in the distribution of juvenile fish relative to prior years. The change in distribution was primarily the result of mortality in shallow water caused by physical damage and (or) subsequent decreased growth. Considering these results and the finding that the recruitment level and the recruits per spawning in the 2011 year class were low, the tsunami may have affected the determination of the recruitment level.
Einstein flow and cosmology
Authors: Kouneiher J.
Published: July 2015

The recent evolution of the observational technics and the development of new tools in cosmology and gravitation have a significant impact on the study of the cosmological models. In particular, the qualitative and numerical methods used in dynamical system and elsewhere, enable the resolution of some difficult problems and allow the analysis of different cosmological models even with a limited number of symmetries.

On the other hand, following Einstein point of view the manifold [Formula: see text] and the metric should be built simultaneously when solving Einstein’s equation [Formula: see text]. From this point of view, the only kinematic condition imposed is that at each point of space–time, the tangent space is endowed with a metric (which is a Minkowski metric in the physical case of pseudo-Riemannian manifolds and an Euclidean one in the Riemannian analogous problem). Then the field [Formula: see text] describes the way these metrics depend on the point in a smooth way and the Einstein equation is the “dynamical” constraint on [Formula: see text]. So, we have to imagine an infinite continuous family of copies of the same Minkowski or Euclidean space and to find a way to sew together these infinitesimal pieces into a manifold, by respecting Einstein’s equation. Thus, Einstein field equations do not fix once and for all the global topology. [Formula: see text] Given this freedom in the topology of the space–time manifold, a question arises as to how free the choice of these topologies may be and how one may hope to determine them, which in turn is intimately related to the observational consequences of the space–time possessing nontrivial topologies.

Therefore, in this paper we will use a different qualitative dynamical methods to determine the actual topology of the space–time.
BIOMECHANICAL COMPARISON OF THE CORACOCLAVICULAR SPACE FIXATION USING THREE DIFFERENT SUTURE TECHNIQUES
Authors: GRIŠKEVIČIUS JULIUS , ŠEŠOK ANDŽELA , MIZERAS DEIVIDAS , MASIONIS POVILAS , RYLIŠKIS SIGITAS
Published: July 2015

Coracoclavicular space fixation with suture loops is a well-known surgical technique for the treatment of dislocations. However, out of 100 different surgical treatments no single one has been established as a gold standard. The following research aims to improve the technique and focuses on a development of new fixation technique using composite sutures, which would withstand forces during ligament healing process. Three different fixation techniques (one loop and two separate suture loops and W-system) were tested on a custom built mechanical testing device. Applied load was continuously increased at a loading rate of 30[Formula: see text]N/min until the failure of the sutures. Ultimate tensile strength and suture elongation at failure were measured. The W-system had statistically significant higher load to failure and higher stiffness compared to one loop and two separate loops techniques. Biomechanical properties of a suture fixation technique can be improved by connecting them into one system to create particular arrangement of the sutures. The measurements can be easily repeated and this testing protocol can serve as a good starting point to standardize procedures of evaluation of different joint fixation techniques and to develop new ones.
A comment on two-locus epistatic interaction models for genome-wide association studies
Authors: Sohn Kyung-Ah , Wee Kyubum
Published: July 2015

Detection of epistatic interactions in genome-wide association studies is a computationally hard problem. Many detection algorithms have been proposed and will continue to be. Most of those algorithms measure their predictive power by running on simulated data many times under various disease models. However, we find that there have been subtle differences in interpreting the meaning of existing disease models among the previous studies on detection of epistatic interactions. We elucidate those differences and suggest that future studies on epistatic interactions in GWAS state explicitly which versions/interpretations are employed. We also provide a way to facilitate setting parameters of disease models.
THE IMPORTANCE OF INTER-TEMPORAL INTEGRATION IN NEW PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT
Authors: LEE YEOLAN , MACKENZIE WILLIAM I. , FONG ERIC A. , SHERMAN J. DANIEL
Published: July 2015

According to the knowledge-based view (KBV), knowledge is a valuable resource that can lead to a competitive advantage. However, in industries where codified knowledge is used in developing successive iterations of products, codified knowledge has the potential to become obsolete over time and thus can also be an impediment to innovation. Using cycle-time (competitor comparison) as a performance measure, we find that inter-temporal integration — organisational practices designed to transfer tacit knowledge between former and current employees in successive new product development projects (NPDS) — enables a firm to effectively utilize codified knowledge to enhance product development cycle-time performance. Furthermore, using dysfunctional design change frequency as a performance measure, we find that inter-temporal integration has a negative relationship to this variable, but the relationship is stronger when knowledge codification is high. The results provide evidence of an important boundary condition to the benefit of codified knowledge in new product innovation.
Controlled Synthesis of Horizontal Silicon Nanowires for Biosensor Application
Authors: Ahn Chisung , Mun Jihun , Kulkarni Atul , Jin Yinhua , Sung Giwoon , Lee Minho , Kim Taesung , Kim Kwangsu
Published: July 2015

Top-down silicon nanowire ( SiNW ) fabrication mechanisms for connecting electrodes are widely utilized because they provide good control of the diameter to length ratio. The representative mechanism for the synthesis of SiNWs , a top-down approach, has limitations on the control of their diameter following lithography technologies, requires a long manufacturing process and is not cost-effective. In this study, we have implemented the bottom-up growth of horizontal SiNWs ( H-SiNWs ) on Si / SiO 2 substrates directly by plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD) under about 400°C. The HAuCl4 solution as a catalyst and SiH 4 gas as a precursor are used for the synthesis of H-SiNWs . After optimization of synthesis conditions, we evaluated the photoelectric properties of the H-SiNWs under illumination with different light intensities. Further, we demonstrated the feasibility of H-SiNW devices for the detection of biotinylated DNA nanostructures and streptavidin interaction.
Reassessing Climate Change Impacts on Agriculture in China
Authors: LIU Jie , LIU Changyi , WEN Yan
Published: July 2015

Nonlinearity and adaptation effect are rarely taken into consideration in the existing literature of empirical studies on climate change impacts, which may lead to bias estimation of the impacts on agricultural production. This paper aims to reassess the impacts on crop yields (rice, wheat, and maize) by incorporating the terms of nonlinearity and adaptation into a provincial panel data model and further study the impacts of future climate change under the represented concentration pathways (RCP) scenarios. Results reveal that the historical warming temperature benefits rice but harm wheat and maize productions, and decreasing precipitation benefits rice and maize but harm wheat production. Adaptation can significantly mitigate the negative impacts. Under RCP4.5 and RCP8.0, after adaptation, the yield changes attributed to future climate change vary from 0.66% to 0.98% for rice, -0.65% to -0.84% for wheat, and -0.24 to 0.08% for maize. The shifts of means of climatic variables impose no challenge on national food security of China.
A Framework for Space Complexity in Algebraic Proof Systems
Authors: Bonacina Ilario , Galesi Nicola
Published: July 2015

Algebraic proof systems, such as Polynomial Calculus (PC) and Polynomial Calculus with Resolution (PCR), refute contradictions using polynomials. Space complexity for such systems measures the number of distinct monomials to be kept in memory while verifying a proof. We introduce a new combinatorial framework for proving space lower bounds in algebraic proof systems. As an immediate application, we obtain the space lower bounds previously provided for PC/PCR [Alekhnovich et al. 2002; Filmus et al. 2012]. More importantly, using our approach in its full potential, we prove Ω(
n
) space lower bounds in PC/PCR for random
k
-CNFs (
k
≥ 4) in
n
variables, thus solving an open problem posed in Alekhnovich et al. [2002] and Filmus et al. [2012]. Our method also applies to the Graph Pigeonhole Principle, which is a variant of the Pigeonhole Principle defined over a constant (left) degree expander graph.
On Kinetic Delaunay Triangulations
Authors: Rubin Natan
Published: July 2015

Let
P
be a collection of
n
points in the plane, each moving along some straight line at unit speed. We obtain an almost tight upper bound of
O
(
n
2+ϵ
), for any ϵ > 0, on the maximum number of discrete changes that the Delaunay triangulation DT(
P
) of
P
experiences during this motion. Our analysis is cast in a purely topological setting, where we only assume that (i) any four points can be co-circular at most three times, and (ii) no triple of points can be collinear more than twice; these assumptions hold for unit speed motions.
The Local Universes Model
Authors: Lumsdaine Peter Lefanu , Warren Michael A.
Published: July 2015

We present a new coherence theorem for comprehension categories, providing strict models of dependent type theory with all standard constructors, including dependent products, dependent sums, identity types, and other inductive types.

Precisely, we take as input a “weak model”: a comprehension category, equipped with structure corresponding to the desired logical constructions. We assume throughout that the base category is close to locally Cartesian closed: specifically, that products and certain exponentials exist. Beyond this, we require only that the logical structure should be
weakly stable
—a pure existence statement, not involving any specific choice of structure, weaker than standard categorical Beck--Chevalley conditions, and holding in the now standard homotopy-theoretic models of type theory.

Given such a comprehension category, we construct an equivalent split one whose logical structure is strictly stable under reindexing. This yields an interpretation of type theory with the chosen constructors.

The model is adapted from Voevodsky's use of universes for coherence, and at the level of fibrations is a classical construction of Giraud. It may be viewed in terms of local universes or delayed substitutions.
Stem Cell Hierarchy and Clonal Evolution in Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
Authors: Lang Fabian , Wojcik Bartosch , Rieger Michael A.
Published: July 2015

Cancer is characterized by a remarkable intertumoral, intratumoral, and cellular heterogeneity that might be explained by the cancer stem cell (CSC) and/or the clonal evolution models. CSCs have the ability to generate all different cells of a tumor and to reinitiate the disease after remission. In the clonal evolution model, a consecutive accumulation of mutations starting in a single cell results in competitive growth of subclones with divergent fitness in either a linear or a branching succession. Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is a highly malignant cancer of the lymphoid system in the bone marrow with a dismal prognosis after relapse. However, stabile phenotypes and functional data of CSCs in ALL, the so-called leukemia-initiating cells (LICs), are highly controversial and the question remains whether there is evidence for their existence. This review discusses the concepts of CSCs and clonal evolution in respect to LICs mainly in B-ALL and sheds light onto the technical controversies in LIC isolation and evaluation. These aspects are important for the development of strategies to eradicate cells with LIC capacity. Common properties of LICs within different subclones need to be defined for future ALL diagnostics, treatment, and disease monitoring to improve the patients’ outcome in ALL.
Study on the Queue-Length Distribution inGeo/G(MWV)/1/NQueue with Working Vacations
Authors: Luo Chuanyi , Li Jiangyi , Tang Yinghui
Published: July 2015

This paper analyzes a finite buffer size discrete-timeGeo/G/1/Nqueue with multiple working vacations and different input rate. Using supplementary variable technique and embedded Markov chain method, the queue-length distribution solution in the form of formula at arbitrary epoch is obtained. Some performance measures associated with operating cost are also discussed based on the obtained queue-length distribution. Then, several numerical experiments follow to demonstrate the effectiveness of the obtained formulae. Finally, a state-dependent operating cost function is constructed to model an express logistics service center. Regarding the service rate during working vacation as a control variable, the optimization analysis on the cost function is carried out by using parabolic method.
Partial Recurrent Laryngeal Nerve Paralysis or Paresis? In Search for the Accurate Diagnosis
Authors: Delides Alexander , Kokotis Panagiotis , Maragoudakis Pavlos
Published: July 2015

“Partial paralysis” of the larynx is a term often used to describe a hypomobile vocal fold as is the term “paresis.” We present a case of a dysphonic patient with a mobility disorder of the vocal fold, for whom idiopathic “partial paralysis” was the diagnosis made after laryngeal electromyography, and discuss a proposition for a different implementation of the term.