bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Geochemical modelling of hydrogen gas migration in an unsaturated bentonite buffer
Authors: Sedighi Majid , Thomas Hywel Rhys , Al Masum Shakil , Vardon Philip James , Nicholson Duncan , Chen Qing
Published: December 2014

This paper presents an investigation of the transport and fate of hydrogen gas through compacted bentonite buffer. Various geochemical reactions that may occur in the multiphase and multicomponent system of the unsaturated bentonite buffer are considered. A reactive gas transport model, developed within an established coupled thermal, hydraulic, chemical and mechanical (THCM) framework, is presented. The reactive transport module of the model considers the transport of multicomponent chemicals both in liquid and gas phases, together with an advanced geochemical reaction model. The results of a series of numerical simulations of the reactive transport of hydrogen in unsaturated bentonite are presented in which hydrogen gas, because of the corrosion of a steel canister, has been injected at a realistic rate into a partially saturated bentonite buffer. Gas pressure development and the fate of the hydrogen gas with respect to the geochemical reactions are studied. The results show the high buffering capacity of unsaturated bentonite, when considering a steel canister, over a period of 10 000 years. The presence of accessory minerals is shown to have an important role in mitigating excess hydrogen ions, thus increasing the dissolution capacity of the system to gas. The development of various forms of aqueous complexations between the inorganic components and the hydrogen ions were also found to be important in buffering the excess hydrogen that evolved. Based on the results obtained, it is postulated that the presence of various chemical components in the clay buffer may influence the transport and fate of the hydrogen gas.
Modification of Silica Rice Husk Ash to Solid Ammonium Sulphate for Second Generation Biofuels Productions
Authors: Hello Kasim Mohammed , Mohammed Majid Jari , Yasser Asstabraq Mohsen , Adam Farook , Farag Zinab
Published: December 2014

A new approach has been demonstrated for the synthesis of solid ammonium sulphate attached to silica rice husk ash. The 3-(aminopropyl)triethoxysilane was immobilized onto silica at room temperature to functionalize the silica with ammine end groups (–NH2). The amine group was sulphated with sulphuric acid to produce a novel micro-rod-like shaped acidic catalyst (as seen with TEM) designated RHNH3SO4H (RH = rice husk). The TGA analysis shows that the catalyst is stable at temperatures below 200°C. The acidity measurement of the catalyst indicates that it has Brønsted acid sites. Cellulose extracted from waste of rice husk and cellulose extracted from office paper were hydrolysed to glucose in 6 h, and the glucose was hydrolysed afterwards to other products within 13 h. The catalyst is reusable many times without a significant loss of catalytic activity.
Clinicoradiological Correlation of Macropsia due to Acute Stroke: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Montalvo Mayra Johana , Khan Muhib Alam
Published: December 2014

Dysmetropsia (macropsia, micropsia, teleopsia, or pelopsia) most commonly results from retinal pathologies, epileptic seizure, neoplastic lesions, viral infection, or psychoactive drugs. Vascular lesions are an uncommon cause of dysmetropsia. Vascular hemimicropsia, although rare, has been more frequently described in the literature, whereas hemimacropsia from acute ischemic injury is exceedingly rare. We describe a patient presenting in the emergency room (ER) with visual perception disturbances characterized by a distorted perception of the size of objects, compatible with left hemimacropsia. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain showed an acute occipitotemporal ischemic injury corresponding to the posterior cerebral artery (PCA) territory. The location of the lesion is consistent with previous case reports that suggest that hemimacropsia is associated with the occipitotemporal projection, which plays a decisive role in the visual identification of objects by interconnecting the striate, prestriate, and inferior temporal areas. The difference of our case as compared to previous case reports is that the lesion in our patient spared Brodmann area 17 (calcarine cortex) and therefore did not present symptoms of quadrantanopsia. Instead, the patient presented isolated hemimacropsia, therefore suggesting that the anatomical lesion causing hemimacropsia is located in the ventral portion of the occipitotemporal projection, more specifically Brodmann areas 18 (parastriate) and 19 (peristriate).
Investigations on Vehicle Rollover Prevention Using LQG Regulator
Authors: Mridula Balakrishnan Binda , Rajaram Marimuthu
Published: December 2014

This paper presents results of an initial investigation into vehicle roll model and control strategies suitable for preventing vehicle untripped rollovers. For vehicles that are deemed to be susceptible to wheel-liftoff, various control strategies are implemented in simulation. In this study, the authors propose a method for rollover prevention that does not require such accurate contact information. The validity of the stability margin is shown, and it is used to realize rollover prevention in the direction of the roll. The primary assumption in their implementation is that the vehicle in question is equipped with a conventional controller system.
Safety and Tolerability of Essential Oil from Cinnamomum zeylanicum Blume Leaves with Action on Oral Candidosis and Its Effect on the Physical Properties of the Acrylic Resin
Authors: Oliveira Julyana de Araújo , da Silva Ingrid Carla Guedes , Trindade Leonardo Antunes , Lima Edeltrudes Oliveira , Carlo Hugo Lemes , Cavalcanti Alessandro Leite , de Castro Ricardo Dias
Published: December 2014

The anti‐Candida activity of essential oil from Cinnamomum zeylanicum Blume, as well as its effect on the roughness and hardness of the acrylic resin used in dental prostheses, was assessed. The safety and tolerability of the test product were assessed through a phase I clinical trial involving users of removable dentures. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum fungicidal concentrations (MFC) were determined against twelve Candida strains. Acrylic resin specimens were exposed to artificial saliva (GI), C. zeylanicum (GII), and nystatin (GIII) for 15 days. Data were submitted to ANOVA and Tukey posttest (α = 5%). For the phase I clinical trial, 15 healthy patients used solution of C. zeylanicum at MIC (15 days, 3 times a day) and were submitted to clinical and mycological examinations. C. zeylanicum showed anti‐Candida activity, with MIC = 625.0 µg/mL being equivalent to MFC. Nystatin caused greater increase in roughness and decreased the hardness of the material (P < 0.0001), with no significant differences between GI and GII. As regards the clinical trial, no adverse clinical signs were observed after intervention. The substance tested had a satisfactory level of safety and tolerability, supporting new advances involving the clinical use of essential oil from C. zeylanicum.
Gout Initially Mimicking Rheumatoid Arthritis and Later Cervical Spine Involvement
Authors: Nunes Eduardo Araújo Santana , Rosseti Adroaldo Guimarães , Ribeiro Daniel Sá , Santiago Mittermayer
Published: December 2014

Gout is clinically characterized by episodes of monoarthritis, but if not treated properly, it can lead to a chronic polyarthritis, which may eventually mimic rheumatoid arthritis (RA). We present the case of a 59-year-old man, with a history of symmetrical polyarthritis of the large and small joints with later development of subcutaneous nodules, which was initially misdiagnosed as RA, being treated with prednisone and methotrexate for a long period of time. He complained of occipital pain and paresthesia in his left upper limb, and computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed the presence of an expansive formation in the cervical spine with compression of the medulla. He was admitted for spinal decompressive surgery and the biopsy specimen demonstrated a gouty tophus. Chronic gout can mimic RA and rarely involves the axial skeleton, and thus its correct diagnosis and the implementation of adequate therapy can halt the development of such damaging complications.
Hepatitis B e Antigen Seroconversion Is Related with the Function of Dendritic Cells in Chronic Hepatitis B Virus Infection
Authors: Lin Chunjing , Zou Hai , Wang Shumin
Published: December 2014

Aim. To investigate the relationship between hepatitis B e antigen seroconversion and the function of dendritic cells (DC) in patients with hepatitis B virus.Methods. The peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) from 21 chronic HBV patients in immune tolerance state, 23 patients in inactive HBsAg carrier state, and 10 healthy HBV-naive blood donors were incubated and induced into DC in presence of granulocyte-macrophage colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF) and interleukin-4 (IL-4), respectively. The expressions of surface markers on DC were detected by flow cytometry, and the stimulatory capacity of DC in allogenic mixed leukocyte reaction (MLR) was tested by CCK-8, and the level of cytokines released by DC was analyzed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).Results. DC from patients in immune tolerance showed a remarkably lower surface expression of CD80, CD86, and HLA-DR and exhibited an impaired stimulatory capacity in MLR and reduced secretion of IL-12, as compared to the patients in inactive HBsAg carrier state. There was no significant difference between the indicators from the patients in inactive HBsAg carrier state and healthy subjects. There was a significant difference of HBV DNA level between immune tolerance and inactive HBsAg carrier group (P<0.01) and a negative correlation between HBV DNA level and the expressions of dendritic cells in both groups, respectively (P=0.01).Conclusion. DC from patients in inactive HBsAg carrier state shows stronger function in comparison with patients in immune tolerance, the expressions of dendritic cells correlate with HBV DNA level, and the function stage of DC may play an important role in HBeAg seroconversion.
Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy for Metastatic and Recurrent Ewing Sarcoma and Osteosarcoma
Authors: Brown Lindsay C. , Lester Rachael A. , Grams Michael P. , Haddock Michael G. , Olivier Kenneth R. , Arndt Carola A. S. , Rose Peter S. , Laack Nadia N.
Published: December 2014

Background. Radiotherapy has been utilized for metastatic and recurrent osteosarcoma and Ewing sarcoma (ES), in order to provide palliation and possibly prolong overall or progression-free survival. Stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) is convenient for patients and offers the possibility of increased efficacy. We report our early institutional experience using SBRT for recurrent and metastatic osteosarcoma and Ewing sarcoma.Methods. We reviewed all cases of osteosarcoma or ES treated with SBRT between 2008 and 2012.Results. We identified 14 patients with a total of 27 lesions from osteosarcoma(n=19)or ES(n=8). The median total curative/definitive SBRT dose delivered was 40 Gy in 5 fractions (range, 30–60 Gy in 3–10 fractions). The median total palliative SBRT dose delivered was 40 Gy in 5 fractions (range, 16–50 Gy in 1–10 fractions). Two grade 2 and 1 grade 3 late toxicities occurred, consisting of myonecrosis, avascular necrosis with pathologic fracture, and sacral plexopathy. Toxicity was seen in the settings of concurrent chemotherapy and reirradiation.Conclusions. This descriptive report suggests that SBRT may be a feasible local treatment option for patients with osteosarcoma and ES. However, significant toxicity can result, and thus systematic study is warranted to clarify efficacy and characterize long-term toxicity.
IUGR Management: New Perspectives
Authors: Giuliano N. , Annunziata M. L. , Tagliaferri S. , Esposito F. G. , Imperato O. C. M. , Campanile M. , Signorini M. G. , Di Lieto A.
Published: December 2014

Aim of the Study. Analyzing velocimetric (umbilical artery, UA; ductus venosus, DV; middle cerebral artery, MCA) and computerized cardiotocographic (cCTG) (fetal heart rate, FHR; short term variability, STV; approximate entropy, ApEn) parameters in intrauterine growth restriction, IUGR, in order to detect early signs of fetal compromise.Population Study. 375 pregnant women assisted from the 28th week of amenorrhea to delivery and monitored through cCTG and Doppler ultrasound investigation. The patients were divided into three groups according to the age of gestation at the time of delivery, before the 34th week, from 34th to 37th week, and after the 37th week. Data were analyzed in relation to the days before delivery and according to the physiology or pathology of velocimetry. Statistical analysis was performed through thet-test, chi-square test, and Pearson correlation test(P<0.05). Our results evidenced an earlier alteration of UA, DV, and MCA. The analysis between cCTG and velocimetric parameters (the last distinguished into physiological and pathological values) suggests a possible relation between cCTG alterations and Doppler ones. The present study emphasizes the need for an antenatal testing in IUGR fetuses using multiple surveillance modalities to enhance prediction of neonatal outcome.
Scotopic Microperimetry in the Early Diagnosis of Age-Related Macular Degeneration: Preliminary Study
Authors: Nebbioso Marcella , Barbato Andrea , Pescosolido Nicola
Published: December 2014

Background. Recent clinical studies have shown that, in some degenerative retinal diseases, like age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the sensitivity of the rods decreases more rapidly than the sensitivity of the cones. The aim of this study was to evaluate if there is a correlation between the presence of hard drusen at the macular level and the rod damage responsible for the reduction in scotopic retinal sensitivity in subjects at risk for AMD.Methods. The authors selected 24 subjects (14 men and 10 women) with an average age of 67.25 ± 5.7 years. Macular hard drusen were present in 50% of the subjects at thefundus oculiexam. The researchers evaluated the retinal sensitivity to light in mesopic and scotopic conditions of each subject with an MP-1 scotopic microperimeter (MP-1S).Results. In subjects with hard drusen in thefundus oculiexamination, there was a statistically significant reduction in scotopic retinal sensitivity, while the mesopic retinal sensitivity was not compromised.Conclusion. This study revealed how the presence of hard drusen at the macular level is associated with a reduction in scotopic retinal sensitivity compared to a control group of healthy subjects. Retinal functionality in a scotopic setting examined with MP-1S could be useful in early diagnosis of AMD.
Optimal Waist Circumference Cut-Off Point for Multiple Risk Factor Aggregation: Results from the Maracaibo City Metabolic Syndrome Prevalence Study
Authors: Bermúdez Valmore , Rojas Joselyn , Salazar Juan , Añez Roberto , Chávez-Castillo Mervin , González Robys , Martínez María Sofía , Cabrera Mayela , Cano Clímaco , Velasco Manuel , López-Miranda José
Published: December 2014

Context and Objective. The purpose of this study was to determine optimal waist circumference (WC) cut-off values for the detection of multiple risk factor aggregation in individuals from Maracaibo, Venezuela.Participants and Methods. A total of 1,902 adult individuals of both genders belonging to MMSPS were included. Complete physical, laboratory, and anthropometric examination were done to evaluate Metabolic Syndrome (MS) components and insulin resistance. ROC curves were plotted for risk factor aggregation in order to assess WC cut-off point. Logistic regression models were constructed to assess risk factors associated with the WC.Results. There were 52.2% females and 47.8% males, with WC of90.7±13.7 cm and98.2±15.9 cm, respectively. ROC curves exhibited a WC cut-off point for women of 90.25 cm (68.4% sensitivity, 65.8% specificity) and 95.15 cm (71.1% sensitivity, 67.4% specificity) for men. HOMA2-IR and high blood pressure were associated with a WC over these cut-off points, as well as 2.5-fold risk increase for multiple risk factor aggregation (OR 2.56; CI 95%: 2.05–3.20;P<0.01).Conclusions. These population-specific WC cut-offs are readily applicable tools for detection of risk factor aggregation. Insulin resistance is closely associated with this definition of abdominal obesity, which may serve as a surrogate for its assessment.
Prune Belly Syndrome with Overlapping Presentation of Partial Urorectal Septum Malformation Sequence in a Female Newborn with Absent Perineal Openings
Authors: Farooqui Azhar , AlAqeel Alaa , Habib Zakaria
Published: December 2014

Prune belly syndrome (PBS) is a rare congenital anomaly characterized in males by a triad of anomalous genitourinary tract, deficient development of abdominal wall muscles, and bilateral cryptorchidism. Although similar anomalies have been reported in females, by definition they do not full fill the classical triad. Urorectal septum malformation sequence (URSM) is a lethal condition characterized by presence of ambiguous genitalia, absent perineal openings (urogenital and anal), and lumbosacral abnormalities. In this original case report, the authors discuss the presentation and management of what would be analogous to a Woodhouse category 1 PBS in a female newborn associated with an overlapping presentation of URSM.
Sesamol: A Natural Phenolic Compound with Promising Anticandidal Potential
Authors: Ansari Moiz A. , Fatima Zeeshan , Hameed Saif
Published: December 2014

We investigated the antifungal effects of sesamol (Ses), a natural phenolic compound, and exemplified that it could be mediated through disruption of calcineurin signaling pathway inC. albicans, a human fungal pathogen. The repertoire of antifungal activity not only was limited toC. albicansand its six clinical isolates tested but also was against non-albicansspecies ofCandida. Interestingly, the antifungal effect of Ses affects neither the MDR efflux transporter activity nor passive diffusion of drug. We found thatC. albicanstreated with Ses copies the phenotype displayed by cells having defect in calcineurin signaling leading to sensitivity against alkaline pH, ionic, membrane, salinity, endoplasmic reticulum, and serum stresses but remained resistant to thermal stress. Furthermore, the ergosterol levels were significantly decreased by 63% confirming membrane perturbations in response to Ses as also visualized through transmission electron micrographs. Despite the fact that Ses treatment mimics the phenotype of compromised calcineurin signaling, it was independent of cell wall integrity pathway as revealed by spot assays and the scanning electron micrographs. Taken together, the data procured from this study clearly ascertains that Ses is an effectual antifungal agent that could be competently employed in treatingCandidainfections.
A Kikuchi-Fujimoto Disease Case Mimicking T Cell Lymphoma with Prolonged Fever
Authors: Yadigar Serap , Balkan Ilker Inanc , Saltoglu Nese
Published: December 2014

Kikuchi-Fujimoto disease (KFD) is a self-limited disease characterized by necrotizing lymphadenitis. Although cervical lymphadenitis in young women is the most familiar clinical presentation, it may take place in the etiology of fever in cases presenting with fever of unknown origin. A 33-year-old male case admitted with fever, nausea, vomiting, weight loss, and leukopenia for one month, subsequently developing axillary lymphadenopathy during followup, diagnosed as KFD with typical histopathological findings, and showing full recovery after the excision of lymph node was presented in this report.
Follistatin Alleviates Synovitis and Articular Cartilage Degeneration Induced by Carrageenan
Authors: Yamada Jun , Tsuji Kunikazu , Miyatake Kazumasa , Matsukura Yu , Abula Kahaer , Inoue Makiko , Sekiya Ichiro , Muneta Takeshi
Published: December 2014

Activins are proinflammatory cytokines which belong to the TGFβsuperfamily. Follistatin is an extracellular decoy receptor for activins. Since both activins and follistatin are expressed in articular cartilage, we hypothesized that activin-follistatin signaling participates in the process of joint inflammation and cartilage degeneration. To test this hypothesis, we examined the effects of follistatin in a carrageenan-induced mouse arthritis model. Synovitis induced by intra-articular injection of carrageenan was significantly alleviated by preinjection with follistatin. Macrophage infiltration into the synovial membrane was significantly reduced in the presence of follistatin. In addition, follistatin inhibited proteoglycan erosion induced by carrageenan in articular cartilage. These data indicate that activin-follistatin signaling is involved in joint inflammation and cartilage homeostasis. Our data suggest that follistatin can be a new therapeutic target for inflammation-induced articular cartilage degeneration.
Pleomorphic Invasive Ductal Carcinoma of the Breast in a Patient with Huntington’s Disease
Authors: Shousha Sami
Published: December 2014

A pleomorphic invasive ductal carcinoma developed in a patient with Huntington’s disease. The tumour showed marked nuclear pleomorphism and contained large number of bizarre tumour giant cells and abundant abnormal mitoses. Tumour cells showed nuclear vesicles and inclusions similar to those described in nuclei of neural cells in patients with Huntington’s disease. The case suggests that, in some patients, tumour morphology may reflect specific individual features.
In Vivo Radioimaging of Bradykinin Receptor B1, a Widely Overexpressed Molecule in Human Cancer
Authors: Lin Kuo-Shyan , Pan Jinhe , Amouroux Guillaume , Turashvili Gulisa , Mesak Felix , Hundal-Jabal Navjit , Pourghiasian Maral , Lau Joseph , Jenni Silvia , Aparicio Samuel , Bénard François
Published: December 2014

The bradykinin receptor B1R is overexpressed in many human cancers where it might be used as a general target for cancer imaging. In this study, we evaluated the feasibility of using radiolabeled kallidin derivatives to visualize B1R expression in a preclinical model of B1R-positive tumors. Three synthetic derivatives were evaluated in vitro and in vivo for receptor binding and their ability to visualize tumors by PET. Enalaprilat and phosphoramidon were used to evaluate the impact of peptidases on tumor visualization. While we found that radiolabeled peptides based on the native kallidin sequence were ineffective at visualizing B1R-positive tumors, peptidase inhibition with phosphoramidon greatly enhanced B1R visualization in vivo. Two stabilized derivatives incorporating unnatural amino acids (68Ga-SH01078 and 68Ga-P03034) maintained receptor-binding affinities that were effective, allowing excellent tumor visualization, minimal accumulation in normal tissues, and rapid renal clearance. Tumor uptake was blocked in the presence of excess competitor, confirming that the specificity of tumor accumulation was receptor mediated. Our results offer a preclinical proof of concept for noninvasive B1R detection by PET imaging as a general tool to visualize many human cancers. Cancer Res; 75(2); 387–93. ©2014 AACR.
Prediagnostic Circulating Polyomavirus Antibody Levels and Risk of Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma
Authors: Teras Lauren R. , Rollison Dana E. , Pawlita Michael , Michel Angelika , Blase Jennifer L. , Willhauck-Fleckenstein Martina , Gapstur Susan M.
Published: December 2014

Background: Three human polyomaviruses have been classified as probable (Merkel cell polyomavirus) or possible (BK and JC polyomaviruses) carcinogens, but few epidemiologic studies have examined associations between this growing class of viruses and risk of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL).

Methods: Associations between polyomavirus antibodies and NHL incidence were examined using data from the American Cancer Society Cancer Prevention Study-II. This nested case–control study included 279 NHL cases and 557 controls. Prediagnostic antibodies to the major capsid protein of polyomaviruses BKV, JCV, MCV, TSV, WUV, KIV, HPy6, and HPy7 were measured by fluorescent bead-based multiplex serology, and associations with NHL were estimated using conditional logistic regression (NHL overall) and unconditional polytomous logistic regression (NHL subtypes).

Results: Although an inverse trend was suggested for TSV antibody levels and NHL risk, the HRs were not statistically significant. There were no other observed associations between polyomaviruses and NHL risk. For NHL subtypes, TSV antibody level above the median was associated with a lower risk of CLL/SLL; however, this association was based on 19 cases in the high antibody group and may be due to chance.

Conclusions: Our results do not support associations of polyomaviruses BKV, JCV, WUV, KIV, HPyV6, HPyv7, MCV, or TSV with risk of NHL.

Impact: Human polyomavirus antibody levels do not appear to predict a higher NHL risk in immunocompetent individuals. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 24(2); 477–80. ©2014 AACR.
Aggressive Medical Care in Young Chinese Patients with Ischemic Stroke of Undetermined Etiology: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Liu Ling , Yang Fang , Li Min , Hou Huajuan , Yin Qin , Zhang Renliang
Published: December 2014

Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the clinical and angiographic characteristics of ischemic stroke of undetermined etiology in young Chinese adults and to observe the effects of medication on their long-term outcomes. Methods: A total of 179 consecutive young patients with ischemic stroke of undetermined etiology were retrospectively analyzed for clinical and angiographic characteristics, laboratory tests, the choice of drug treatment, and follow-up outcomes. Any predictive power for recurrent stroke and new lesions or aggravated stenosis was analyzed. Results: 170 patients were clinically followed up for a median of 25 months (range, 4-92), and 65 patients with 114 lesions had angiographic follow-up for a median of 7 months. A total of 53 patients were enrolled in a routine medical management (RMM) group, and 117 were treated with corticosteroids plus RMM (aggressive medical management, AMM). Kaplan-Meier survival analysis revealed that differences in the 2-year cumulative stroke-free rate and in the 18-month cumulative worsening and/or new lesion-free rate between the RMM and AMM groups were significant (p < 0.05). Multivariate and Cox regression analyses revealed that the choice of drug therapy and erythrocyte sedimentation rate were associated with recurrent stroke, that AMM was independently associated with a decreased risk of worsening lesion, and that worsening lesion was the only independent predictor of recurrent stroke. Conclusion: Compared with RMM, AMM is more efficacious in the prevention of secondary ischemic stroke and progressive arterial lesions among young adults with ischemic stroke of undetermined etiology. i 2014 S. Karger AG, Basel
Hepatocellular Carcinoma in a Noncirrhotic Liver after Long-Term Use of Danazol for Hereditary Angioedema
Authors: Rahal Soraya , Gilabert Marine , Ries Pauline , Oziel-Taieb Sandrine , Dermeche Slimane , Raoul Jean-Luc
Published: December 2014

We report a 57-year-old male who was treated with high-dose danazol for hereditary angioedema for more than 30 years; he developed hepatocellular carcinoma in the absence of cirrhosis. Despite surgical resection, he had a recurrence and received sorafenib, but had a poor skin tolerance. Such tumors arising after danazol are infrequent, and this case is highly unique due to the minor lesions found on the liver.
Associations of Ambulatory Blood Pressure With Urinary Caffeine and Caffeine Metabolite Excretions
Authors: Guessous Idris , Pruijm Menno , Ponte Belén , Ackermann Daniel , Ehret Georg , Ansermot Nicolas , Vuistiner Philippe , Staessen Jan , Gu Yumei , Paccaud Fred , Mohaupt Markus , Vogt Bruno , Pechère-Bertschi Antoinette , Martin Pierre-Yves , Burnier Michel , Eap Chin B. , Bochud Murielle
Published: December 2014

Intake of caffeinated beverages might be associated with reduced cardiovascular mortality possibly via the lowering of blood pressure. We estimated the association of ambulatory blood pressure with urinary caffeine and caffeine metabolites in a population-based sample. Families were randomly selected from the general population of Swiss cities. Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring was conducted using validated devices. Urinary caffeine, paraxanthine, theophylline, and theobromine excretions were measured in 24 hours urine using ultrahigh performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. We used mixed models to explore the associations of urinary excretions with blood pressure although adjusting for major confounders. The 836 participants (48.9% men) included in this analysis had mean age of 47.8 and mean 24-hour systolic and diastolic blood pressure of 120.1 and 78.0 mm Hg. For each doubling of caffeine excretion, 24-hour and night-time systolic blood pressure decreased by 0.642 and 1.107 mm Hg (both
P
values <0.040). Similar inverse associations were observed for paraxanthine and theophylline. Adjusted night-time systolic blood pressure in the first (lowest), second, third, and fourth (highest) quartile of paraxanthine urinary excretions were 110.3, 107.3, 107.3, and 105.1 mm Hg, respectively (
P
trend <0.05). No associations of urinary excretions with diastolic blood pressure were generally found, and theobromine excretion was not associated with blood pressure. Anti-hypertensive therapy, diabetes mellitus, and alcohol consumption modify the association of caffeine urinary excretion with systolic blood pressure. Ambulatory systolic blood pressure was inversely associated with urinary excretions of caffeine and other caffeine metabolites. Our results are compatible with a potential protective effect of caffeine on blood pressure.
Framing Nationality in the Migratory Context
Authors: Beaugrand Claire
Published: December 2014

The biduns (“without” nationality) are the segment of the Kuwaiti population that claims entitlement to the Kuwaiti nationality whereas the State of Kuwait, while contesting the truth of their claims, has been holding them as illegal since 1986. As the bone of contention is mainly about the criteria that qualify an individual for nationality, the biduns’ issue has often been analyzed through the sole question of their deserving or proving to belong as nationals and the relations between them. This paper adds a third element, namely the label of aliens – from which the biduns strongly distance themselves, and more broadly the migratory context in which the debate takes place. By analyzing the socially constructed migrants categories that are imposed on, shaped, and contested by the biduns along with other actors, this research investigates the ways in which the elusive category of biduns serves to define nationality but also to fulfill migration policy goals.
Egyptian Citizenship Legislation, Private International Law, and Their Impact on Individual Rights
Authors: Badawy Tarek
Published: December 2014

Under Egyptian law, citizenship plays a major role in defining the rights that a person may exercise. While Egyptians are generally free to work in any profession and own all types of property, foreign nationals are subject to restrictions, which vary depending on the rights they wish to exercise and their legal status in the country. Access to Egyptian citizenship is a discretionary process that is potentially discriminatory along ethnic, religious, and national lines. This article examines recent developments in legislation governing citizenship and individual rights in Egypt. It proceeds to outline areas in which non-Egyptians are subject to legal restrictions in accordance with applicable legislation, notably in the areas of residence, property ownership, adjudication, employment, and education. It finds that Egyptian law in effect creates a complex hierarchy of rights based primarily on citizenship status.
Citizenship, Migration, and Confessional Democracy in Lebanon
Authors: Jaulin Thibaut
Published: December 2014

No major citizenship reform has been adopted in Lebanon since the creation of the Lebanese citizenship in 1924. Moreover, access to citizenship for foreign residents does not depend on established administrative rules and processes, but instead on ad hoc political decisions. The Lebanese citizenship regime is thus characterized by immobilism and discretion. This paper looks at the relationship between citizenship regime and confessional democracy, defined as a system of power sharing between different religious groups. It argues that confessional democracy hinders citizenship reform and paves the way to arbitrary naturalization practices, and that, in turn, the citizenship regime contributes to the resilience of the political system. In other words, the citizenship regime and the political system are mutually reinforcing.
Hanguana neglecta (Hanguanaceae): a new plant species from a heavily collected and visited reserve in Singapore
Authors: Niissalo Matti A. , Wijedasa Lahiru S. , Boyce Peter C. , Leong-Skornickova Jana
Published: December 2014

We describe and illustrate a new species, Hanguana neglecta (Commelinales, Hanguanaceae), from the Bukit Timah Nature Reserve in Singapore, one of the most heavily collected and frequently visited forests in the world. The species, growing prominently near the path at the nature reserve, was not described despite being identified as new fifteen years ago, owing to long-standing taxonomic misconceptions in Hanguana. The key to Hanguana in Peninsular Malaysia is here updated.
Primulina glandaceistriata (Gesneriaceae), a new species from Guangxi, China
Authors: Xinxin Zhu , WEN FANG , SUN HANG
Published: December 2014

Primulina glandaceistriata from Lingchuan County, Guangxi, is illustrated and described as a new species. It is morphologically close to P. dryas and P. beiliuensis, but can be easily distinguished by its leaf blades oval, ovate or nearly rounded, and both leaf surfaces being sparsely purple strigulose and the hairs with a papillose base; shorter peduncle 7.5–9.5 cm long that is densely erectly purple pilose; bracts inside densely erectly purple pilose; corolla pale purple to purple, inner surface glabrous and  with sparse purple spots and two obviously brown stripes, and the outer surface piloglandulose; staminodes longer, ca. 7.5 mm long. The conservation status of this new species was assessed as “Critically Endangered” (CR).
Description of the female and notes on distribution, habitat, nymphal development, song and chromosomes of Tropidonotacris grandis Ragge (Orthoptera: Phaneropteridae)
Authors: HEMP CLAUDIA , HELLER KLAUS-GERHARD , WARCHAŁOWSKA-ŚLIWA ELŻBIETA , HEMP ANDREAS
Published: December 2014

The female of Tropidonotacris grandis is described and information on distribution, habitat, song, chromosomes and nymphal development of this species given. The populations of northern Tanzania all occur in deciduous dry forest, a habitat highly endangered by destruction and therefore T. grandis must be regarded at least as a vulnerable species according to the IUCN red list.
Absence of consistent genetic differentiation among several morphs of Actinia (Actiniaria: Actiniidae) occurring in the Portuguese coast
Authors: PEREIRA ANA M , BRITO CRISTIANA , SANCHES JOANA , SOUSA-SANTOS CARLA , ROBALO JOANA I
Published: December 2014

Actinia equina, the beadlet sea anemone, is a very labile species, displaying variable colour patterns, broad habitat choice and diverse modes of reproduction. Historically, studies using genetic markers such as allozymes and differences in habitat choice lead several authors to propose that different colour morphs could represent different species. One of the species defined was A. fragacea. In this paper, the relationships between brown, red and green colour morphs of A. equina and A. fragacea were studied, using two DNA fragments (one mitochondrial and one nuclear). Individuals were sampled from three different areas in Portugal separated by a maximum distance of 500 km. This is the first study applying direct sequencing of selected gene fragments to approach the validity of Actinia morphs as different genetic entities. The results show that, at least in the Portuguese coast, these colour morphs do not correspond to the two valid species recognized in the literature. The existence of cryptic species is discussed.
Improved Seasonal Prediction of Temperature and Precipitation over Land in a High-Resolution GFDL Climate Model
Authors: Jia Liwei , Yang Xiaosong , Vecchi Gabriel A. , Gudgel Richard G. , Delworth Thomas L. , Rosati Anthony , Stern William F. , Wittenberg Andrew T. , Krishnamurthy Lakshmi , Zhang Shaoqing , Msadek Rym , Kapnick Sarah , Underwood Seth , Zeng Fanrong , Anderson Whit G. , Balaji Venkatramani , Dixon Keith
Published: December 2014

This study demonstrates skillful seasonal prediction of 2-m air temperature and precipitation over land in a new high-resolution climate model developed by the Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Laboratory and explores the possible sources of the skill. The authors employ a statistical optimization approach to identify the most predictable components of seasonal mean temperature and precipitation over land and demonstrate the predictive skill of these components. First, the improved skill of the high-resolution model over the previous lower-resolution model in seasonal prediction of the Niño-3.4 index and other aspects of interest is shown. Then, the skill of temperature and precipitation in the high-resolution model for boreal winter and summer is measured, and the sources of the skill are diagnosed. Last, predictions are reconstructed using a few of the most predictable components to yield more skillful predictions than the raw model predictions. Over three decades of hindcasts, the two most predictable components of temperature are characterized by a component that is likely due to changes in external radiative forcing in boreal winter and summer and an ENSO-related pattern in boreal winter. The most predictable components of precipitation in both seasons are very likely ENSO-related. These components of temperature and precipitation can be predicted with significant correlation skill at least 9 months in advance. The reconstructed predictions using only the first few predictable components from the model show considerably better skill relative to observations than raw model predictions. This study shows that the use of refined statistical analysis and a high-resolution dynamical model leads to significant skill in seasonal predictions of 2-m air temperature and precipitation over land.
The evolution of the Australian ‘ndrangheta. An historical perspective
Authors: Sergi Anna
Published: December 2014

This paper explores the phenomenon of the ‘ndrangheta – a criminal organisation from Calabria, South of Italy and allegedly the most powerful among the Italian mafias – through its migrating routes. In particular, by focusing on the peculiar case of Australia, the paper aims to show the overlapping of migrating flows with criminal colonisation, which has proven to be a strategy of this particular mafia. The paper uses the very thin literature on the subject alongside official reports and newspaper articles on migration and crime, mainly from Italian sources, to trace an historical journey on the migration of people from Calabria to Australia in various moments of the last century. The aim is to present the evolution and growth of Calabrian clans in Australia. The topic is largely unexplored and is still underreported among Australian institutions and scholars, which is why the paper chooses an historical approach to describe the principal paths in this very new field of research.
Redefinition of the Ampere
Authors: Janssen TJBM , Giblin SP , See P , Fletcher JD , Kataoka M
Published: December 2014

In this short review, we discuss the planned redefinition of the SI unit for electrical current, the ampere. We focus on the work National Physical Laboratory has been doing in this respect to develop a single-electron source capable of realising the new definition with the required precision.
A vision of hope and fear: Creative research and Ezekiel 1
Authors: Parker B. J.
Published: December 2014

Despite a growing interest in the visual among biblical scholars, little to no integration of the creation of visual images with traditional modes of research has occurred. In this article I argue that the creation of visual art can uniquely contribute to biblical studies in general, and more specifically to conversations surrounding Ezekiel 1. After surveying the developments in biblical studies that attend to the visual in some way, I turn to a description of the major streams of Ezekielan scholarship, pointing out an area requiring further attention, namely the confluence of hope and danger bound up in the images of Ezekiel 1. After touching on several prominent artists who influence my thinking, I present a painting that functions as my primary reading of Ezekiel 1. In my painting I argue that the images of Ezekiel 1 carry with them both the experience of suffering and the hope of a sovereign and salvific God.
From bound and gagged to swimming in the water of life: How God breaks and heals Ezekiel
Authors: McEntire Mark
Published: December 2014

Ways of reading the Israelite prophetic literature have often focused either on the historical process by which the scrolls developed or the final forms of the scrolls as literary compositions. Integrating these approaches offers possibilities for more synthetic ways of reading the prophetic scrolls. Two particular aspects of the book of Ezekiel promise the possibility of such integration. First, examining the prophet as a narrative character presents a portrait of Ezekiel as the victim of his own announcements of judgment. Second, placing the narrative character in the context of the trauma suffered by the Israelites in the Babylonian period demonstrates that the scroll uses Ezekiel’s own traumatic experience to renegotiate the understanding of sin, guilt, and punishment in the wake of national tragedy.
Urban sprawl as a risk factor in motor vehicle crashes
Authors: Ewing Reid , Hamidi Shima , Grace James B
Published: December 2014

A decade ago, compactness/sprawl indices were developed for metropolitan areas and counties which have been widely used in health and other research. In this study, we first update the original county index to 2010, then develop a refined index that accounts for more relevant factors, and finally seek to test the relationship between sprawl and traffic crash rates using structural equation modelling. Controlling for covariates, we find that sprawl is associated with significantly higher direct and indirect effects on fatal crash rates. The direct effect is likely due to the higher traffic speeds in sprawling areas, and the indirect effect is due to greater vehicle miles driven in such areas. Conversely, sprawl has negative direct relationships with total crashes and non-fatal injury crashes, and these offset (and sometimes overwhelm) the positive indirect effects of sprawl on both types of crashes through the mediating effect of increased vehicle miles driven. The most likely explanation is the greater prevalence of fender benders and other minor accidents in the low speed, high conflict traffic environments of compact areas, negating the lower vehicle miles travelled per capita in such areas.
Blaming Deadmen
Authors: Kenny Katherine Elizabeth
Published: December 2014

This article illustrates the shortcomings of an objectivist epistemology in publicly accounting for technological accidents. Public inquiries convened in the aftermath of accidents tend to operate with such an objectivist approach and, as a result, usually assign blame to either or both of two causal culprits: technical malfunction and socio-organizational failure. Following Downer, I argue that a constructivist understanding of technological failure opens the possibility of a third type of cause—one that is epistemological in nature. Public inquiries frequently fail to recognize these “epistemic accidents” and are thereby limited in their capacity to effect positive change. Using the case of a 2003 railway accident near Sydney, Australia, and the public inquiry that was convened in its wake, this article argues that recognizing the epistemological origins of failure holds promise for a more constructive way of accounting for and learning from technological accidents.
Does a small posterior fossa increase nerve vascular conflict in trigeminal neuralgia?
Authors: Park Young Seok , Ha Seung Man
Published: December 2014

Background

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can be helpful in visualizing neurovascular conflict (NVC) of the trigeminal nerve in patients with trigeminal neuralgia (TN), but the relationship between these two events is controversial.

Purpose

To investigate whether posterior fossa volume is a predisposing factor for NVC in TN.

Material and Methods

We conducted a case-control study of clinically diagnosed idiopathic TN of 30 patients aged 30–79 years and 30 age- and sex-matched controls. We compared the volume of the posterior fossa and subarachnoid space using fast-imaging employing steady-state acquisition MRI and the iPlan® programme of BrainLab.

Results

The posterior fossa volumes in controls and patients with TN were 168.97 cm3 and 167.63 cm3, respectively. A small pontomesencephalic cistern volume was more frequent in TN. However, neither the cisternal nor parenchymal portions of the posterior fossa were different between patients with TN and controls, and no significant volume difference was observed in this study.

Conclusion

Although the hypothesis that small posterior fossa volume influences TN was feasible, we did not find any volumetric differences (including the cisternal and parenchymal volumes).However, small pontomesencephalic cistern volumes were more frequent in patients with TN.
Engaging a State that Resists Sanctions Pressure: US Policy toward China, 1992−1994
Authors: Wei Chi-hung
Published: December 2014

Why did President Bill Clinton, while having linked human rights to China’s most-favoured-nation (MFN) status in 1993, delink the two issues in 1994, despite the fact that China had not improved its human rights record? This article explains Clinton’s linkage-delinkage policy reversal in terms of ‘strategic co-constitution’. After Tiananmen, Washington was concerned about China’s human rights abuses, arms proliferation and unfair trade practices. During 1992−3, Clinton initiated a ‘strategic social construction’ process that translated human rights into the linkage policy. Clinton stressed that a humane, democratic China would neither proliferate weapons nor engage in unfair trade practices. In 1994, however, a pro-MFN coalition persuaded Clinton that open trade could better advance US security, economic and human rights interests in China. Framing their rhetoric in ways that resonated with the exiting US concerns over China, pro-MFN actors led a strategic social construction process that redefined Clinton’s China policy toward engagement.
The Conscience as a Regulatory Function
Authors: Schalkwijk Frans , Stams Geert Jan , Stegge Hedy , Dekker Jack , Peen Jaap
Published: December 2014

This study examines an emotion-based theory of the conscience, which provides forensic practitioners tools for assessing the state of the conscience. It is operationalized as an emotion-regulating function, making use of empathy, self-conscious emotions, such as shame, pride or guilt, and moral judgment. This was put to test in a questionnaire survey with 59 delinquent and 275 non-delinquent juveniles. As was hypothesized, the functioning of the conscience of these groups differed, with offenders having lower levels of some aspects of empathic capacity, being less prone to experiencing shame and guilt, being more prone to experiencing pride, and being more punishment oriented than victim oriented. The research confirmed that operationalization of the conscience in terms of empathy, self-conscious emotions, and moral orientation is feasible.