bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Combining damage and fracture mechanics to model calving
Authors: Krug J. , Weiss J. , Gagliardini O. , Durand G.
Published: March 2014

Abstract. Calving of icebergs is a major negative component of polar ice-sheet mass balance. We present a new calving modeling framework relying on both continuum damage mechanics and linear elastic fracture mechanics. This combination accounts for both the slow sub-critical surface crevassing and fast propagation of crevasses when calving occurs. First, damage of the ice occurs over long timescales and enhances the viscous flow of ice. Then brittle fracture propagation happens downward, over very short timescales, in ice considered as an elastic medium. The model is validated on Helheim Glacier, South-West Greenland, one of the most monitored fast-flowing outlet glacier. This allows to identify sets of model parameters giving a consistent response of the model and producing a dynamic equilibrium in agreement with observed stable position of the Helheim ice front between 1930 and today.
(R)Evolutionary Teaching:
Authors: Duncan Kathryn , Bolich Cecilia
Published: March 2014

Written by a professor and her former student, this article describes a senior-level class that studied early British literature from the perspective of evolutionary psychology in Spring 2009. Both writers conclude that the experience was a positive one for students and a healthy challenge for all involved. The interdisciplinary work of the course provided an opportunity to “teach the conflicts” and to prepare students for the potential conflicts they faced in graduate programs as they applied the controversial theory of evolutionary psychology.
TeachingMiddlemarchwith a Focus on Theory of Mind
Authors: Machann Clinton
Published: March 2014

Recent critical insights related to the application of evolutionary psychology and cognitive studies to the study of literature are incorporated into lesson plans for a particular undergraduate English novels course. I focus on George Eliot's Middlemarch (1871–72) and outline plans for employing the concept of theory of mind.
Teaching Cervantes'sDon Quixotefrom a Cognitive Historicist Perspective
Authors: Jaén Isabel
Published: March 2014

When approaching Cervantes's Don Quixote from a cognitive historicist perspective, we make better sense of the work and the context in which it was conceived, the early modern exploration of the mind. Such an approach takes us to a higher epistemological level: by considering Cervantes's account of cognition in parallel with those other thinkers working in the realm of medical philosophy (such as Juan Luis Vives and Huarte de San Juan), we transcend our first level of inquiry, the actual literary work, and place our students in a position to gain a deeper and more cohesive knowledge of early modern culture. This article proposes a model for a course that connects Cervantes's masterpiece to the cognitive ideas of his time while emphasizing process-centered, close-interaction pedagogical strategies. Content is organized around three main themes: (1) psychiatry (the senses, perception and delusion, emotional imbalance), (2) differential psychology (typology of wits, humoral theory, gender difference), and (3) human development (from animal to rational, the cognitive faculties) and includes a balanced combination of primary and secondary sources coming both from the humanities and the sciences. Benefits and pitfalls of the course are considered and a course reading list and sample class activity are provided.
Engaged Reading as Mental Work:
Authors: Polvinen Merja
Published: March 2014

This article presents an account of the design and perceived results of a course on cognitive narratology. The course aims to introduce the theoretical apparatus of cognitive narratology, including issues such as social cognition (mind reading) and the mental construction of fictional worlds. Students explore these issues by reading and analyzing science fiction and fantasy texts in which various narrative conventions are concretized within what would normally be impossible worlds and scenarios. The aim in using texts from popular genres is both to create in students reading experiences that engage their imaginations and to give them explicit illustrations of the cognitive functions of narrative. Of these functions, the course focuses on literature as mental work, that is, on texts providing dynamic patterns of thought for readers to act out. A focus on literature as mental work can provide students with a theoretical outlook and analytical toolbox while at the same time preserving a central role for their individual reading experiences.
A case of coxsackie B virus infection leading to multi-organ inflammation: Myopericarditis and acute liver failure
Authors: Zaheeruddin Samad , Bade Najeebah A. , Jani Sandeep , Srichai Monvadi B.
Published: March 2014

Myopericarditis refers to the development of acute pericarditis with myocardial involvement. Viral infections, including Coxsackie B virus, are amongst the most common causes of myopericarditis. The Coxsackie B viruses are known to have a role in the development of a number of clinical diseases including but not limited to cardiac disease, central nervous system infections, ocular infections, pleurodynia, gastrointestinal disease, and viral exanthems. In individual cases, Coxsackie B virus may also be associated with acute hepatitis. We describe a rare case of a 41 year-old female with multi-organ inflammation caused by Coxsackie B virus leading to myopericarditis, pleuritis, and acute liver failure. Laboratory and imaging data helped to make diagnosis of myopericarditis and appropriate management was initiated. Shortly after the patient developed acute liver failure with an INR greater than 13 and AST and ALT of 7946 u/L and 5684 u/L, respectively. Viral serology revealed Coxsackie B 1, 2, and 6 serum antibody positivity (> 1:32 titer) indicating acute or recent infection. A complete workup for other liver failure etiologies was negative. The case shows the significance of awareness and recognition of the possible complications of Coxsackie B virus infection including liver failure.
The therapeutic hypothermia after resuscitated cardiac arrest caused by ventricular fibrillation: a retrospective study in Saint Pierre University Hospital
Authors: Libert Séverine , Mols Pierre , Dechamps Philippe , Claus Marc , Mélot Christian , Claessens Benoit
Published: March 2014

Background: Therapeutic hypothermia is recommended as soon as possible for the neurological protection of comatose patients after cardiorespiratory arrest (CA) caused by pulseless ventricular fibrillation (VF) or tachychardia (VT). This retrospective study evaluates the adherence to the hypothermia protocol in Emergency Department and Intensive Care Units of Saint Pierre University Hospital (SPUH). Methods: Retrospective analyses of the database records from the 1st January 2005 to the 31st December 2010 concerning all the out-of-hospital arrests due to ventricular fibrillation admitted alive in the hospital. Transferred or NTBR patients were excluded. Results: Of the 72 patients studied, 68% were discharged alive from the hospital, of which 84% were free of neurological sequelae. Hypothermia was used in 44 patients, unjustified in 5 cases. There were also 5 cases for which it was needed, but not applied. Hypothermia (32°C – 34°C) was achieved in a median time of 9.5 hours (range: 1.5 hours – 39 hours) and lasted a median 21 hours (range: 7 hours – 31 hours). Hypothermic patient survival was 72.7%, with 81% good neurological outcome. Conclusion: The protocol application in our small study gives as good figures as previous studies. Few errors of inclusion and exclusion are still present. Implementation of a common protocol for Emergency Medical Service (EMS), Emergency Department (ED) and Intensive Care Unit (ICU) would shorten the time to obtain the target temperature. The creation and implementation of a specific register with CA patients who received hypothermia would lead to a better medical follow-up for the patient and improve the current knowledge related to this technique.
Polyol-Based Synthesis of Praseodymium Oxide Nanoparticles
Authors: Quievryn Caroline , Bernard Samuel , Miele Philippe
Published: March 2014

A series of well-crystallized praseodymium oxide (Pr6O11) nanoparticles are synthesized via a highly scalable process from praseodymium nitrate. Praseodymium hydroxide is synthesized through a modified polyol process and subsequent calcination in air at 600°C for 2 h to transform the precursor material into Pr6O11 nanoparticles. A complete characterization of a specific sample by SEM, HRTEM, and X-ray diffraction (XRD) demonstrates that Pr6O11 nanoparticles form elementary blocks with a calculated size of 118 nm, containing slightly agglomerated nanocrystalline particles with a polycrystalline face-centred cubic phase and an individual size of around 10 nm. Particles can be easily dispersed in water through ultrasonification. Particles display a BET Specific Surface Area (SSA; 8.75 m2 g−1) with a nitrogen adsorption-desorption isotherm of type II and a helium density of powders (d = 5.66 g cm−3).
O ESPETÁCULO CÊNICO “CERIMÔNIA DE ABERTURA DOS JOGOS OLÍMPICOS DE PEQUIM/2008” E SUA RELAÇÃO COM OS VALORES OLÍMPICOS
Authors: Primaz Débora Regina , Haas Aline Nogueira , Dall'Agnol Camila , Todt Nelson Schneider
Published: March 2014

Pierre de Coubertin, idealizador dos Jogos Olímpicos da Era Moderna,considerava a Cerimônia de Abertura dos Jogos um meio para ilustrar os valores olímpicos.Os valores olímpicos devem ser representados nas Cerimônias de Abertura por símbolose ritos e transmitidos na forma de representações coreográficas, dramatúrgicas e culturais.O objetivo desse estudo foi analisar se a Cerimônia de Abertura dos Jogos Olímpicos dePequim/2008 foi efetiva na transmissão dos valores olímpicos Respeito, Excelência eAmizade. Através da análise do vídeo dessa Cerimônia foi verificado que o espetáculocênico e as movimentações coreográficas podem auxiliar na transmissão dos valoresolímpicos Respeito, Excelência e Amizade.
Effect of Methyl-B-Cyclodextrin (MBCD) on In Vitro Capacitation of Buffalo Frozen/Thawed Sperm
Authors: Elkhawagah A.R. , Longobardi V. , Gasparrini B. , Sosa G.A. , Salzano A. , Aboul-roos M.E.A. , El-Gaffar A.E. Abd , Zicarelli L.
Published: March 2014

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of Methyl-B-Cyclodextrin (MBCD) on capacitation of buffalo sperm. Frozen/thawed semen was incubated in the absence of capacitating agents (negative control), in the presence of 10 µg/ml heparin (positive control) and of 1, 2, 4 and 8 mg/ml MBCD for 2 and 4h. At each incubation time, sperm motility was evaluated by phase contrast microscopy. Capacitation was assessed by the sperm ability to undergo acrosome reaction after lysophosphatidylcholine treatment, evaluated with viability by Trypan blue-Giemsa. After 2 h capacitation increased (P<0.01) in MBCD groups (39.2±1.4, 44.5±3.3, 56.7±1.5 and 62.5±3.8, with 1, 2, 4 and 8 mg/ml MBCD, respectively) compared to the negative and positive controls (27.5±1.0 and 28.0±0.8, respectively). Likewise, after 4 h the percentage of live capacitated sperm was higher at increasing concentration of MBCD (31.0±0.7, 34.5±1.7, 42.0±1.9, 49.2±2.8, 62.3±1.5 and 70.8±1.7 in negative control, positive control and with 1, 2, 4 and 8 mg/ml MBCD, respectively; P<0.01). After 2 h sperm motility was lower (P<0.01) in 4 and 8 mg/ml MBCD groups (43.3±2.1 and 25.0±3.2, respectively) than in negative control, positive control, 1 and 2 mg/ml MBCD groups (55.0±1.8, 48.3±2.8, 61.7±2.8, 56.7±1.1, respectively). After 4 h the lowest sperm motility was observed with higher MBCD concentrations (40.0±0.0, 46.7±4.2, 51.7±4.6, 50.0±0.0, 40.0±3.7 and 6.7±1.1, in negative control, positive control, 1, 2, 4 and 8 mg/ml MBCD, respectively; P<0.01). In conclusion, MBCD improved sperm capacitation in a dose-dependent manner while decreasing the sperm motility at higher concentrations
Effect of Saccharomyces cerevisiae Live Cells on In Vivo Digestibility and Nitrogen Excretion in Lactating Buffaloes
Authors: Masucci Felicia , Uzun Pinar , Grasso Fernando , De Rosa Giuseppe , Di Francia Antonio
Published: March 2014

The effects of dietary inclusion of Saccharomyces cerevisiae culture on intake, in vivo digestibility, and fecal nitrogen excretion were examined in dairy buffalo. Forty lactating buffalo cows were equally divided into Control and Saccharomyces groups, balanced for milk production, parity, and days in milk. Two subsequent 16-d experimental phases were carried out. For both groups during the first experimental period a TMR based on maize silage (maize-TMR) was used, whereas in the second period an alfalfa haylage (alfalfa-TMR) was administered to the animals. In each experimental period, Saccharomyces group was supplemented with 50 g/head/day of yeast (Biocell®, Limena, Padova, Italy), corresponding to 20×109 CFU/head/day Saccharomyces cerevisiae NCYC Sc47 strain. The yeast supplement was top-dressed onto the morning feed. Dry matter intake (DMI) was assessed for 6 consecutive d on group basis, by the difference between feed offered and refused. In the last 3 days of experimental period in vivo digestibility was determined by using acid-insoluble ash (AIA) as an intrinsic digestibility marker. Saccharomyces supplemented buffalo cows presented greater DMI of maize-TMR, whereas no statistical differences between the groups were observed for alfalfa-TMR. Saccharomyces supplementation significantly improved in vivo digestibility of both TMR. Fecal nitrogen excretion was significantly reduced by the use of yeast supplementation. Results suggest that the inclusion of Saccharomyces cerevisiae culture in the diet for lactating buffaloes can be recommended for its effects on cow’s digestive efficiency and fecal nitrogen excretion.
Studies on Thyroid Hormones and some Biochemical Constituents of Follicular Fluid in Buffalo
Authors: Rampure D.N. , Dalvi S. H. , Gudewar J.G. , Malpani B.L.
Published: March 2014

Present study investigated the levels of some biochemical constituents and thyroid hormones in follicular fluid and serum and compared their concentrations in different size follicles of buffaloes. Buffalo ovaries with unknown reproductive status were collected from abattoir. The follicles visible on its surface were classified based on their diameter as small (<5 mm), medium (5-10 mm) and large (>10 mm) follicles. Twenty four samples from follicles along with blood samples of buffaloes belonging to respective category were collected. The follicular fluid and the serum samples were analyzed for total proteins, albumin, cholesterol, glucose and hormones tri-iodothyronine and thyroxine. The results of the present study revealed that, there was no specific trend observed in the levels of total proteins and albumin according to the size of the follicles but there was significant difference (P<0.01) in the levels of total proteins in follicular fluid and serum. The levels of total cholesterol showed increasing trend as the size of the follicle increases but the variations are not statistically significant. The serum total cholesterol concentration was significantly higher (P< 0.01) than that of follicular fluid. There was increasing trend of glucose concentration in the follicular fluid and also in the serum of respective buffalo with increase in the size of the follicle but the difference was non-significant. The serum glucose concentrations were significantly higher than the levels in the follicular fluid. There was no variation in the serum levels of triiodothyronine between buffalo bearing small and medium sized follicle while, highest serum level was observed in buffalo bearing large sized follicle. The significant (P≤0.01) increase in the levels of T3 in large sized follicle may attribute to the increase in the activity of monodeioniase enzyme. The follicular fluid thyroxine level showed increasing trend with the size of the follicle but the variation was not significant. There was no significant variation in the levels of T4 in serum and follicular fluid in all the groups.
Purification of Olive Mill Wastewater Using Microfiltration Membrane Technology
Authors: Petrotos Konstantinos B. , Lellis Themistocles , Kokkora Maria I. , Gkoutsidis Paschalis E.
Published: March 2014

Olive mill wastewater (OMWW), a by-product of the olive oil extraction process, is a severe polluting waste, but also a source of antioxidants; polyphenols, especially hydroxytyrosol. This study aimed at investigating the potential of microfiltration (MF) for separating the polyphenols from OMWW. OMWW treatment consisted of a preliminary centrifugation step, followed by MF for the separation of fats and polyphenols.Two types of ceramic MF membranes were used. MF flux ranged between 78 and 95 kg m-2 h-1, indicating the applicability of the described process on commercial scale. Better results were obtained with MF membrane of 50 nm pore size, due to its higher porosity compared to the membrane of 200 nm pore size. The optimum operative conditions were transmembrane pressure of 3.5 bar, flow rate of 10 m s-1, and temperature of approximately 55 °C. A 3-month storage of OMWW prior to treatment resulted in a 20% decrease in permeate flux, indicating that direct processing of the OMWW is necessary. Membrane pollution was not a problem for MF operation and did not affect membrane permeability significantly. Restoring the permeability of water to baseline levels after each use, confirmed the successful cleaning regime applied. The microfiltrate was an excellent antioxidant, which contained useful polyphenols, including hydroxytyrosol, tyrosol, p-coumaric acid, caffeic acid and catechin.
Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine: Substantive Changes—An Update
Authors: Williams Andrea , Miskowicz-Retz Konrad C.
Published: March 2014

The American Osteopathic Association Commission on Osteopathic College Accreditation (AOA COCA) is recognized by the US Secretary of Education as the only accrediting agency for osteopathic predoctoral education. To maintain its recognition with the US Secretary of Education, the AOA COCA is required to adhere to all federal laws and regulations associated with the recognition of accrediting agencies. The authors discuss changes in the policies and procedures applicable to review of substantive changes in existing colleges of osteopathic medicine. Also included is a review of AOA COCA–approved class sizes of the accredited colleges of osteopathic medicine.
Phase I/II Study of Hypofractioned Radiation with Three-dimensional Conformal Radiotherapy for Clinical T3-4N0-1M0 Stage Esophageal Carcinoma
Authors: Song Y-P. , Ma J-B. , Hu L-K. , Zhou W. , Chen E-C. , Zhang W.
Published: March 2014

Compared to conventional fractionated-dose radiotherapy, high hypofractionated-dose radiotherapy could yield tumoricidal effects. However, few clinical trials of hypofractionated radiotherapy in loco-regionally advanced incurable esophageal cancer at present have yet been performed. The purpose of the current study was to evaluate the efficacy and toxicity of hypofractioned radiation with three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy for clinical T3-4N0-1M0 stage esophageal carcinoma. From September 2003 to December 2005, 45 patients with locally advanced esophageal carcinoma were grouped and received three-dimensional conformal hypofractioned radiotherapy (3D-CRT) whose fractionated dose was gradually increase per group. Radiotherapy was administered to a total dose of from 50 to 54 Gy (fractionated dose of from 3.0 to 6.0 Gy, 3 times weekly), over a 3–4 week period. And patients received 4 cycles chemotherapy. The median follow-up period for survivors was 38 months. Treatment tolerance rate was 78.8% with daily dose of from 3 to 5 Gy. There are 21.2% patients occurring Grade ≥3 acute toxicities. But patients couldn't tolerate daily dose of 6 Gy (55.6%). The 1-year, 2-year and 3-year local control rates were 62%, 49% and 39% respectively. And the 1-year, 2-year and 3-year overall survival rates were 34%, 21% and 9% respectively. The median overall survival time was 17 months. At the time of following up, 13 patients (31.0%) had occurred esophageal late complications, with mainly esophageal perforation, hemorrhage or stenosis, including initial stenosis aggravation. Therefore hypofractionated irradiation was thought to be feasible for clinical T3-4N0-1M0 stage esophageal carcinoma. And daily dose of ≤5 Gy was comparatively suitable in hypofractionated irradiation for esophageal carcinoma, and the patients tolerated well. But further research was in need also.
Dynamic Contrast Enhanced Optical Imaging of Capillary Leakage
Authors: Faye N. , Fournier L. , Balvay D. , Taillieu F. , Cuenod C-A. , Siauve N. , Clément O.
Published: March 2014

We studied in vivo the vascular permeability of two fluorescent contrast agents in three types of capillary, using a fibered confocal fluorescence microscopy system. Mice were imaged after injection of a macromolecular (albumin FITC 68,000 daltons) or low-molecular-weight contrast agent (FITC 389 daltons). We studied continuous capillaries in muscles (FITC n = 4, albumin FITC n = 6), fenestrated capillaries in mesenteries (FITC n = 8, albumin FITC n = 10), and discontinuous capillaries in xenografted tumors (FITC n = 2, albumin FITC n = 4). Signal intensity (SI) was measured in capillary and interstitial regions, and time-enhancement curves were drawn. Two-compartment models were constructed to determine quantitative microcirculation parameters. The arrival of the bolus of the two different contrast agents was observed in mesentery and muscle capillaries but not in tumor capillaries. Interstitial leakage of the low-molecular-weight contrast agent was observed almost instantaneously, whereas the macromolecular agent remained within the vessels. Signal intensity declined over the observation period, specifically in the tumor. No quantitative microcirculation parameters could be obtained with either of two bi compartmental models, owing to model instability. This study shows that the microcirculation can be reproducibly observed in different types of capillary in vivo with this fibered fluorescence imaging device. Further work is required to quantify microvascular parameters.
Role of Sonography and Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Detecting Deltoideal Acromial Enthesopathy
Authors: Arend Carlos Frederico
Published: March 2014

The acromial origin of the deltoid is a target structure of ankylosing spondylitis and related spondyloarthritis, which are often overlooked and underdiagnosed as causes of posterior shoulder pain. The objective of this article is to review the roles of sonography and magnetic resonance imaging in detecting deltoideal acromial enthesopathy and their importance for optimizing management in individuals with posterior shoulder pain. Adequate awareness of such enthesopathy as a potential manifestation of inflammatory rheumatic disorders is critical for early diagnosis of spondyloarthritis.
Learning Curves in 3‐Dimensional Sonographic Follicle Monitoring During Controlled Ovarian Stimulation
Authors: Rodriguez Amelia , Guillén Juan José , López Maria Jesus , Vassena Rita , Coll Oriol , Vernaeve Valerie
Published: March 2014

Objectives

Three‐dimensional (3D) sonographically based automated volume calculation (SonoAVC; GE Healthcare, Zipf, Austria) is being introduced in folliculometry during ovarian stimulation; however, clear training assessments in this technique are lacking. The learning curve–cumulative summation (LC‐CUSUM) test provides a quantitative tool to determine when a trainee has learned a procedure. The aim of this prospective study was to assess 3D SonoAVC LC‐CUSUM curves in folliculometry.

Methods

Analyses were performed on 98 oocyte donors by capturing the ovarian image in 3D and applying the 3D SonoAVC software during ovarian stimulation cycles. Each patient was scanned by an expert operator and by a trainee. Independent LC‐CUSUM tests for 4 follicular diameters tracked the competency of 3 trainees in 3D SonoAVC.

Results

We found that the numbers of sonographic examinations required by the 3 trainees to identify the correct number of follicles of 10 mm or larger were 38, 32, and 28, respectively; for follicles of 14 mm or larger, they were 29, 28, and 28; for follicles of 18 mm or larger, they were 24, 19, and 27; and for follicles of 21 mm or larger, they were 29, 19, and 24.

Conclusions

A variable number of procedures are needed to reach proficiency in 3D SonoAVC, even for trained 2‐dimensional sonographers. Assessment of learning curves should be implemented when incorporating 3D SonoAVC in reproduction units.
Role of 3‐Dimensional Power Doppler Sonography in Differentiating Pregnant Women With Threatened Preterm Labor From Those With an Asymptomatic Short Cervix
Authors: De Diego Raül , Sabrià Joan , Vela Antonio , Rodríguez David , Gómez Maria Dolores
Published: March 2014

Objectives

To compare cervical volumes and vascularization indices using 3‐dimensional power Doppler sonography among singleton pregnancies with threatened preterm labor and an asymptomatic short cervix.

Methods

Three hundred asymptomatic healthy pregnant women between 24 and 34.6 gestational weeks were prospectively scanned for cervical length. If cervical length was short, defined as below the 10th percentile for gestational age, the cervical volume and vascularization indices (vascularization index [VI], vascularization‐flow index [VFI], and flow index [FI]) were measured. Women receiving any treatment for preterm delivery prevention were excluded. During this period, the same sonographic parameters were measured among patients with threatened preterm labor admitted to our institution during the first 24 hours after admission. Multiple pregnancies and fetal or maternal pathologic conditions, were exclusion criteria. Data on body mass index, maternal age, smoking, parity, family history of preterm birth, mother who was born preterm, and previous preterm birth among the pregnant women were recorded. Sonographic and medical history parameters were compared between the two groups.

Results

Twenty‐nine asymptomatic healthy women (9.6%) had a short cervix. Additionally, 71 pregnancies with threatened preterm labor were scanned. There were no statistically significant differences between the groups in medical history parameters or cervical length. The cervical volume was smaller in threatened preterm cases (12.90 versus 17.168 cm3; P = .005). The VI and VFI were lower in women with an asymptomatic short cervix (VI, 4.369% versus 15.939%; P < .001; VFI, 1.514 versus 4.878; P < .001). The FI was higher in the short cervix group (33.581 versus 30.311; P = .006).

Conclusions

Three‐dimensional transvaginal sonography reveals differences in cervical volume and vascularization indices between pregnancies with an asymptomatic short cervix and cases with threatened preterm labor, although cervical length is similar in both groups.
Adnexal Sonographic Findings in Ectopic Pregnancy and Their Correlation With Tubal Rupture and Human Chorionic Gonadotropin Levels
Authors: Frates Mary C. , Doubilet Peter M. , Peters Hope E. , Benson Carol B.
Published: March 2014

Objectives

To determine whether the distribution of transvaginal sonographic findings of ectopic pregnancy has changed since the studies done 20 years ago and to explore the correlation of tubal rupture with transvaginal sonographic findings and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) levels.

Methods

Patients with ectopic pregnancy who underwent transvaginal sonography before treatment were included. Sonograms and medical records were retrospectively reviewed. The presence of a tubal ring, the presence of a yolk sac, embryonic cardiac activity, the degree of vascularity on color Doppler imaging, hCG levels, and results of surgery were recorded.

Results

Our study included 231 ectopic pregnancies. A positive sonographic adnexal finding was present in 219 cases (94.8%): adnexal mass in 218 (94.4%) and a moderate‐to‐large amount of free fluid in 84 (36.4%). The adnexal masses were graded as follows: 1, nonspecific mass (125 cases [54.1% of total]); 2, tubal ring without a yolk sac or embryo (57 [24.7%]); 3, yolk sac but no embryonic heartbeat (19 [8.3%]); and 4, embryo with cardiac activity (17 [7.4%]). The mean hCG level increased as the grade ascended from 1 to 4. Thirty‐six patients had tubal rupture at surgery within 24 hours of the sonogram. A moderate‐to‐large amount of free fluid was significantly associated with tubal rupture (P < .05) but had low sensitivity, specificity, and positive predictive value for rupture. Other sonographic findings and hCG levels were not significantly related to tubal rupture.

Conclusions

Transvaginal sonography showed an adnexal abnormality in nearly 95% of our patients with ectopic pregnancy, most commonly a nonspecific adnexal mass. Embryonic cardiac activity was seen in fewer than 10%. Neither sonographic findings nor hCG levels were useful predictors of tubal rupture.
Thyroid Hemangiomas Diagnosed on Sonography
Authors: Park Sung Hee , Kim Soo Jin , Jung Hyun Kyung
Published: March 2014

Primary thyroid hemangiomas are extremely rare, and only a few cases have been previously reported. Primary hemangiomas are developmental anomalies resulting from the inability of the angioblastic mesenchyme to form canals. Thyroid hemangiomas are generally considered difficult to diagnose preoperatively because of their low incidence and nonspecific imaging findings. Here we report 2 cases of thyroid hemangiomas that were diagnosed correctly on preoperative sonography. Our cases showed similar sonographic findings, such as well‐circumscribed hypoechoic lesions with internal channel‐like linear lines, and bloody content was aspirated during fine‐needle aspirations. Our report shows that thyroid hemangiomas can be diagnosed correctly by sonography with or without confirmation of bloody content in the lesions by fine‐needle aspiration.
Geochemistry of volcanic glasses from the Louisville Seamount Trail (IODP Expedition 330): Implications for eruption environments and mantle melting
Authors: Nichols Alexander R. L. , Beier Christoph , Brandl Philipp A. , Buchs David M. , Krumm Stefan H.
Published: March 2014

Volcanic glasses recovered from four guyots during drilling along the Louisville Seamount Trail, southwest Pacific, have been analyzed for major, trace, and volatile elements (H2O, CO2, S, and Cl), and oxygen isotopes. Compared to other oceanic island settings, they are geochemically homogeneous, providing no evidence of the tholeiitic stage that characterizes Hawai'i. The degrees and depth of partial melting remained constant over 1–3 Ma represented by the drill holes, and along‐chain over several million years. The only exception is Hadar Guyot with compositions that suggest small degree preferential melting of an enriched source, possibly because it erupted on the oldest and thickest lithosphere. Incompatible element enriched glass from late‐stage volcaniclastics implies lower degrees of melting as the volcanoes moved off the melting anomaly. Volcaniclastic glasses from throughout the igneous basement are degassed suggesting generation during shallow submarine eruptions (<20 mbsl) or as subaerial flows entered the sea. Drill depths may no longer reflect relative age due to postquench downslope movement. Higher volatile contents in late‐stage volcaniclastics indicate submarine eruptions at 118–258 mbsl and subsidence of the edifices below sea level by the time they erupted, or generation in flank eruptions. Glass from intrusion margins suggests emplacement ∼100 m below the surface. The required uplift to achieve these paleo‐quench depths and the subsequent subsidence to reach their current depths exceeds that expected for normal oceanic lithosphere, consistent with the Louisville melting anomaly being <100°C hotter than normal asthenosphere at 50–70 Ma when the guyots were erupted.
Simulation of Earth textures by conditional image quilting
Authors: Mahmud K. , Mariethoz G. , Caers J. , Tahmasebi P. , Baker A.
Published: March 2014

Training image‐based approaches for stochastic simulations have recently gained attention in surface and subsurface hydrology. This family of methods allows the creation of multiple realizations of a study domain, with a spatial continuity based on a training image (TI) that contains the variability, connectivity, and structural properties deemed realistic. A major drawback of these methods is their computational and/or memory cost, making certain applications challenging. It was found that similar methods, also based on training images or exemplars, have been proposed in computer graphics. One such method, image quilting (IQ), is introduced in this paper and adapted for hydrogeological applications. The main difficulty is that Image Quilting was originally not designed to produce conditional simulations and was restricted to 2‐D images. In this paper, the original method developed in computer graphics has been modified to accommodate conditioning data and 3‐D problems. This new conditional image quilting method (CIQ) is patch based, does not require constructing a pattern databases, and can be used with both categorical and continuous training images. The main concept is to optimally cut the patches such that they overlap with minimum discontinuity. The optimal cut is determined using a dynamic programming algorithm. Conditioning is accomplished by prior selection of patches that are compatible with the conditioning data. The performance of CIQ is tested for a variety of hydrogeological test cases. The results, when compared with previous multiple‐point statistics (MPS) methods, indicate an improvement in CPU time by a factor of at least 50.
Functional Gels Based on Chemically Modified Graphenes
Authors: Li Chun , Shi Gaoquan
Published: March 2014

Chemically modified graphene (CMG) materials have been extensively studied because of their unique structures, excellent properties, and potential applications in energy storage and conversion, catalysis, and environment remediation. However, the unique two‐dimensional structure and amphiphilicity make CMG sheets easily restack into irregular aggregates, which greatly reduces their accessible surface area, and thereby deteriorates their performance in practical applications. To exploit their inherent properties fully, CMGs usually have to be fabricated or assembled into functional gels with desired three‐dimensional (3D) interconnected porous microstructures. In this review, we summarize the recent achievements in the synthesis of CMG‐based functional gels, including hydrogels, organogels, aerogels, and their composites. The mechanisms of gel formation and the applications of these functional gels will also be discussed.
Efficacy of long‐term low‐dose macrolide therapy in preventing early recurrence of nasal polyps after endoscopic sinus surgery
Authors: Varvyanskaya Anastasia , Lopatin Andrey
Published: March 2014

Background

This study assessed efficacy of clarithromycin “long‐term” macrolide therapy as an adjunct to maintenance therapy with nasal corticosteroids to prevent recurrence of nasal polyps (NP) after functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS).

Methods

A total of 66 patients with chronic rhinosinusitis and bilateral NP were randomized into 3 study arms, 22 patients in each arm. After FESS, patients in the first and second groups were treated with clarithromycin 250 mg/day for 12 and 24 weeks, respectively, whereas patients in the third group did not receive any clarithromycin. Patients in all 3 groups received maintenance therapy with mometasone furoate 400 μg/day. Patient assessment was conducted before the surgery and 6, 12, and 24 weeks after surgery, using a visual analogue scale (VAS), 20‐item SinoNasal Outcome Test (SNOT‐20), acoustic rhinometry, rhinomanometry, saccharin transit time, nasal endoscopy, computed tomography (CT) of paranasal sinuses, and measurement of the level of eosinophil cationic protein (ECP) in their nasal secretions.

Results

The study confirmed efficacy of “long‐term” macrolide therapy, resulting in significant improvement of all parameters except acoustic rhinometry and VAS in both clarithromycin groups as compared to the control. Concentration of ECP in the nasal secretions increased dramatically after surgery, then returned to baseline levels after 12 and 24 weeks of treatment with clarithromycin. In the control group, ECP level continued to increase and was significantly higher at the endpoint. Both groups with clarithromycin showed significantly better endoscopic and CT scores than the control group at the end point.

Conclusion

“Long‐term” low‐dose clarithromycin 250 mg/day is able to control eosinophilic inflammation and prevent early relapse of NP after FESS.
Enhanced proton conductivity from phosphoric acid‐incorporated 3D polyacrylamide‐graft‐starch hydrogel materials for high‐temperature proton exchange membranes
Authors: Qin Qi , Tang Qunwei , He Benlin , Chen Haiyan , Yuan Shuangshuang , Wang Xin
Published: March 2014

To enhance anhydrous proton conductivity of high‐temperature proton exchange membranes (PEMs), we report here the realization of H3PO4‐imbibed three‐dimensional (3D) polyacrylamide‐graft‐starch (PAAm‐g‐starch) hydrogel materials as high‐temperature PEMs using the unique absorption and retention of crosslinked PAAm‐g‐starch to concentrated H3PO4 aqueous solution. The 3D framework of PAAm‐g‐starch matrix provides enormous space to keep H3PO4 into the porous structure, which can be controlled by adjusting crosslinking agent and initiator dosages. Results show that the H3PO4 loading and therefore the proton conductivities of the membranes are significantly enhanced by increasing the amount of crosslinking agent and initiator dosages. Proton conductivities as high as 0.109 S cm−1 at 180°C under fully anhydrous state are recorded. The high conductivities at high temperatures in combination with the simple preparation, low cost, and scalable matrices demonstrate the potential use of PAAm‐g‐starch hydrogel materials in high‐temperature proton exchange membrane fuel cells. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40622.
Gelling of cellulose nanowhiskers in aqueous suspension
Authors: Le Goff Kevin Jacques , Jouanneau Diane , Garnier Catherine , Aubry Thierry
Published: March 2014

The gelling properties of a 0.46 wt % semi‐dilute aqueous suspension of well‐characterized nanocrystalline cellulose particles extracted from the tunic of marine animals were studied by measuring the time evolution of linear viscoelastic moduli at various frequencies. The results show the existence of a gel time characterized by a frequency‐independent loss angle, which suggests that gelling is due to the growth of self‐similar clusters, whose fractal dimension was determined. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J. Appl. Polym. Sci. 2014, 131, 40676.
COENZYME Q10 TREATMENTS INFLUENCE THE LIFESPAN AND KEY BIOCHEMICAL RESISTANCE SYSTEMS IN THE HONEYBEE, Apis mellifera
Authors: Strachecka Aneta , Olszewski Krzysztof , Paleolog Jerzy , Borsuk Grzegorz , Bajda Milena , Krauze Magdalena , Merska Malwina , Chobotow Jacek
Published: March 2014

Natural bioactive preparations that will boost apian resistance, aid body detoxification, or fight crucial bee diseases are in demand. Therefore, we examined the influence of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10, 2,3‐dimethoxy, 5‐methyl, 6‐decaprenyl benzoquinone) treatment on honeybee lifespan, Nosema resistance, the activity/concentration of antioxidants, proteases and protease inhibitors, and biomarkers. CoQ10 slows age‐related metabolic processes. Workers that consumed CoQ10 lived longer than untreated controls and were less infested with Nosema spp. Relative to controls, the CoQ10‐treated workers had higher protein concentrations that increased with age but then they decreased in older bees. CoQ10 treatments increased the activities of antioxidant enzymes (superoxide dismutase, GPx, catalase, glutathione S‐transferase), protease inhibitors, biomarkers (aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, alanine aminotransferase), the total antioxidant potential level, and concentrations of uric acid and creatinine. The activities of acidic, neutral, and alkaline proteases, and concentrations of albumin and urea were lower in the bees that were administered CoQ10. CoQ10 could be taken into consideration as a natural diet supplement in early spring before pollen sources become available in the temperate Central European climate. A response to CoQ10 administration that is similar to mammals supports our view that Apis mellifera is a model organism for biochemical gerontology.
Optimized‐Based Stabilization of Constrained Nonlinear Systems: A Receding Horizon Approach
Authors: He De‐feng , Yu Li , Song Xiu‐lan
Published: March 2014

The problem of stabilizing constrained nonlinear systems while optimizing performance is investigated in this paper. The tool of weak control Lyapunov functions (WCLFs) is introduced to construct a tuning Sontag's controller where some adjustable parameters are optimized with respect to given performances in a receding horizon fashion. Two algorithms are presented and the corresponding closed‐loop systems with input constraints are proven to be stable in some regions by using the LaSalle's theorem and the properties of WCLFs. Moreover, the inverse optimality result of the controller is achieved. Finally, two open‐loop unstable examples are used to illustrate the performance and effectiveness of the results obtained here.
An Observer–Based Scheme for Decentralized Stabilization of Large‐Scale Systems With Application to Power Systems
Authors: Langarica Córdoba Diego , Ortega Romeo
Published: March 2014

An observer‐based methodology for decentralized stabilization of large‐scale linear time‐invariant systems is presented. Each local controller is provided with available local measurements, it implements a deterministic observer to reconstruct the state of the other subsystems and uses—in a certainty‐equivalent way—these estimates in the control law. The observers are designed following the principles of immersion and invariance. The class of systems to which the design is applicable is identified via a linear matrix inequality, from which the observer gains are obtained. It is shown that the use of immersion and invariance observers, instead of standard Luenberger's observers, enlarges the class of stabilizable systems. The applicability of the proposed method is illustrated with a transient stabilization controller for a two‐machine power system.
Policy Gradient Approach of Event‐Based Optimization and Its Online Implementation
Authors: Xia Li
Published: March 2014

In the theory of event‐based optimization (EBO), the decision making is triggered by events, which is different from the traditional state‐based control in Markov decision processes (MDP). In this paper, we propose a policy gradient approach of EBO. First, an equation of performance gradient in the event‐based policy space is derived based on a fundamental quantity called Q‐factors of EBO. With the performance gradient, we can find the local optimum of EBO using the gradient‐based algorithm. Compared to the policy iteration approach in EBO, this policy gradient approach does not require restrictive conditions and it has a wider application scenario. The policy gradient approach is further implemented based on the online estimation of Q‐factors. This approach does not require the prior information about the system parameters, such as the transition probability. Finally, we use an EBO model to formulate the admission control problem and demonstrate the main idea of this paper. Such online algorithm provides an effective implementation of the EBO theory in practice.
Fluorescence enhancement monitoring of pyrromethene laser dyes by metallic Ag nanoparticles
Authors: Sakr Mahmoud E. M. , Abou Kana Maram T. H. , Abdel Fattah Gamal
Published: March 2014

Fluorescence enhancement monitoring of pyrromethene laser dyes using their complexation with Ag nanoparticles (Ag NPs) was studied. The size of the prepared Ag NPs was determined by transmission electron spectroscopy and UV/Vis absorption spectroscopy. Mie theory was also used to confirm the size of NPs theoretically. The effect of different nanoparticle concentrations on the optical properties of 1 × 10‐4 M PM dyes shows that 40%of Ag NPs concentration (40%C Ag NPs) in complex is the optimum concentration. Also, the effects of different concentrations of PM dyes in a complex was measured. Emission enhancement factors were calculated for all samples. Fluorescence enhancement efficiencies depended on the input pumping energy of a Nd‐YAG laser (wavelength 532 nm and 8 ns pulse duration) were reported and showed the lowest energy (28 and 32 mJ) in the case of PM567 and PM597, respectively. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Simultaneous determination of calycosin‐7‐O‐β‐d‐glucoside, calycosin, formononetin, astragaloside IV and schisandrin in rat plasma by LC‐MS/MS: application to a pharmacokinetic study after oral administration of Shenqi Wuwei chewable tablets
Authors: Sun Xuehui , Zhang Pingping , Wu Xiujun , Wu Qiong , Zhang Mengmeng , An Ye , Shi Guobing
Published: March 2014

A rapid, sensitive and reliable high‐performance liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC‐MS/MS) method was developed and validated for simultaneous quantification of the five main bioactive components, calycosin, calycosin‐7‐O‐β‐d‐glucoside, formononetin, astragaloside IV and schisandrin in rat plasma after oral administration of Shenqi Wuwei chewable tablets. Plasma samples were extracted using solid‐phase extraction separated on a CEC18 column and detected by MS with an electrospray ionization interface in multiple‐reaction monitoring mode. Calibration curves offered linear ranges of two orders of magnitude with r > 0.995. The method had a lower limit of quantitation of 0.1, 0.02, 0.1, 1 and 0.1 ng/mL for calycosin, calycosin‐7‐O‐β‐d‐glucoside, formononetin, astragaloside IV and schisandrin, respectively. Intra‐ and inter‐day precisions (relative standard deviation) for all analytes ranged from 0.97 to 7.63% and from 3.45 to 10.89%, respectively. This method was successfully applied to the pharmacokinetic study of the five compounds in rats after oral administration of Shenqi Wuwei chewable tablets. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Fast quantification of cyclophosfamide and its N‐dechloroethylated metabolite 2‐dechloroethylcyclophosphamide in human plasma by UHPLC‐MS/MS
Authors: Yang Le , Feng Jin , Zhang Feng , Jiang Bo , Gao Shouhong , Chen Wansheng
Published: March 2014

A rapid, novel and reliable UHPLC‐MS/MS method was developed and validated for simultaneous determination of cyclophosphamide (CP) and its dechloroethylated metabolite, 2‐dechloroethylcyclosphamide (2‐DCECP) in human plasma. The plasma samples were conducted by protein precipitation with 3‐fold acetonitrile, containing 0.1% formic acid. Mass spectrometric detection was performed using electrospray positive ionization with multiple reaction monitoring mode, using tinidazole as internal standard (IS). Chromatographic separation was performed on an Agilent poroshell 120 SB‐C18 column (2.1 × 75 mm, 2.7 µm) using gradient elution of acetonitrile and 0.1% formic acid at a flow rate of 0.5 mL/min, the total run time was 2.5 min. The limit of quantification (LOQ) was 20 ng/mL for both CP and 2‐DCECP. Accuracies and precisions were <15% at LOQ and below 10% at quality control concentration levels. This UHPLC‐MS/MS method was successfully applied for the estimation of CP and 2‐DCECP in human plasma, which was also useful for clinical toxicology studies and therapeutic drug monitoring of CP. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.