bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Zipper junctions: A new approach to the intersections of conjugate strike-slip faults
Authors: Platt John P. , Passchier Cees W.
Published: August 2016

Intersecting pairs of simultaneously active faults with opposing slip sense present geometrical and kinematic problems. Such faults rarely offset each other but usually merge into a single fault, even when they have displacements of many kilometers. The space problems involved are solved by lengthening the merged fault (zippering up the conjugate faults) or splitting it (unzippering). This process can operate in thrust, normal, and strike-slip fault settings. Examples of conjugate pairs of large-scale strike-slip faults that may have zippered up include the Garlock and San Andreas faults in California (USA), the North and East Anatolian faults (Turkey), the Karakoram and Altyn Tagh faults (Tibet), and the Tonale and Giudicarie faults (southern Alps). Intersecting conjugate ductile shear zones behave in the same way on outcrop and micro-scales. Zippering may produce complex and significant patterns of strain and rotation in the surrounding rocks, depending on the angle between the faults and the relative strength of the blocks they bound. A zippered fault will have a slip rate equal to the vector sum of the slip rates on the merging faults, unless that displacement is transferred into or out of the system by distributed strain in the surrounding rocks.
Recycling in debris-filled volcanic vents
Authors: Graettinger A.H. , Valentine G.A. , Sonder I.
Published: August 2016

Eruptions through debris-filled vents produce deposits containing magmatic juvenile lithic and recycled clasts. Recycled clasts are exposed to multiple transportation and fragmentation events. We used experiments with multiple subsurface explosions to track clasts and highlight dominant recycling processes in eruptions through analog debris-filled vents. Recycled clasts include those that fall back into and reside in the vent for extended time periods and those that return to the vent through crater growth or collapse. Clasts are recycled by any combination of lofting and fallback of material in the crater by explosion jets, mixing and churning of material at depth in the debris fill, and redistribution of extra-crater deposits by explosion-induced excavation or slumping. We compare experimental processes with natural deposits that preserve recycling signatures from discrete explosions through debris-filled vents such as maar-diatremes, Strombolian vents, and hydrothermal craters. Clasts may not preserve textures diagnostic of their complete recycling histories, but can be used to infer if that history occurred in part in the vent debris or in the eruptive jet. Experiment results and natural deposits suggest that for volcanic craters that undergo multiple explosions, clasts likely undergo some form of recycling before final deposition outside the craters. The underestimation of recycled clast contributions to deposits can lead to inaccurate estimates of thermal budgets and eruption processes.
A REVIEW OF THE USE OF CALCIUM LIQUID VERSUS CALCIUM TABLETS FOR MAINTAINING CORRECTED CALCIUM LEVELS
Authors: Semple Diarmaid , Howlett Moninne
Published: August 2016

Aim

Since the discontinuation of a commercially available liquid calcium medicine, there have been various local strategies to obtain adequate calcium levels, particularly in suspected 22Q11.2 deletion syndrome children post cardiothoracic surgery. Pharmacy obtained on special order a Calcium Liquid food supplement (0.5 mmol calcium/ml) for use in those children whom effervescent tablets did not appear to improve corrected calcium. Anecdotally it was thought that calcium liquid was better tolerated and absorbed, resulting in quicker recovery time of corrected calcium than use of the effervescent tablets. This review of patients was intended to determine if the use of the liquid was associated with a significant improvement in calcium levels compared to the use of tablets.

Method

A dispense report was undertaken to identify those patients supplied with the calcium liquid product from May 2014 to May 2015.

Using the electronic prescribing system, the patients electronic health record was accessed, and the following information recorded; calcium, albumin, intake calcium in fluids, TPN, oral and Intravenous. The data was collected for seven days previous to the first administration of calcium liquid and seven days after where available. Corrected calcium was calculated using an accepted method (calcium=serum calcium+0.02* (normal albumin – patient albumin)).

Results

Nine children supplied with calcium liquid between May 2014 and May 2015. Four patients who did not have histories on the electronic prescribing system were excluded for ease of analysis. The electronic medication record of the five remaining patients was used to compare calcium intake from all sources including fluids and feed.

As expected calcium levels (and corrected calcium level where relevant) did improve when calcium liquid was added in. However four of the patients received calcium from multiple sources. Of these three received more calcium (mmol/kg/day) in fluids and feeds than from the administered pharmacy product.

One single patient did not receive calcium from any other sources (fluids/TPN/feed). However there did not appear to be a significant change in calcium levels when calcium liquid was introduced as opposed to calcium tablets.

Conclusion

Although based on a small number of patients, from this experience it would not seem that the calcium liquid obtained by pharmacy results in higher calcium serum levels.

Further analysis may be required to distinguish the effects from calcium intake in feed/fluid and calcium intake from medicines.
AUDIT OF OXYGEN PRESCRIBING IN A CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL
Authors: Wheeler Lucy , James Janet , Byrne Sarah , Forton Julian
Published: August 2016

Aim

To audit oxygen prescribing in a children's hospital following the introduction of a new paediatric medication chart, which incorporates an oxygen prescription section.

Method

In June 2015 a 1-day snapshot audit was carried out across all wards in the children's hospital. All patients receiving oxygen on that day were included:

▸ The audit was repeated in July 2015.

▸ The standards for the audit were set at 100% in accordance with our local guidelines.1

▸ All patients receiving oxygen should have a prescription. Of these:

▸ All patients should have target saturations identified.

▸ All patients should have an administration device identified.

▸ All patients should have a nurse signature on the chart within the last 12 hrs.

Results

In June, 13 patients were receiving oxygen on the audit day. 0/14 had a prescription.

In July, 18 patients were receiving oxygen on the audit day. (14 critical care, 4 medicine).

4/18 had an oxygen prescription (22%). These were all medical patients. Of these, 4 patients had a target saturation identified (100%), 1 had a device prescribed (25%), and 4 had a nurse signature within the last 12 hrs (100%).

Conclusion

The initial audit showed no compliance with either local or national guidance for oxygen prescribing.1 2 The re-audit showed improved prescribing on the medical wards but not within critical care. The new paediatric medication chart was launched early in 2015, along with a training package for doctors, nurses and pharmacists. This was in response to the National Patient Safety Agency (NPSA) rapid response report on oxygen safety in hospitals.3

There was a gap between the training and the new charts being available which may have led to the poor results in the first audit. Increased awareness of the charts and the initial audit results probably helped improve prescribing in the re-audit. For medical patients, prescribing and monitoring was good, although device was infrequently prescribed. Critical care have not engaged with the new chart and oxygen prescription process. Although the British Thoracic Society guidelines indicate that oxygen for adult patients must be prescribed, these do not currently cover critical care or children under 16 years.2 There are guidelines for children in development which are likely to advocate the same. This could be another reason why there is no prescribing in critical care.

Patient numbers were small in this snapshot audit which could limit its validity. Future work will include re-audit in our hospital and audit across the whole region where the new charts have been introduced.
STARTING A NEW MEDICINE STUDY
Authors: Aston Jeff , Wilson Keith , Terry David
Published: August 2016

Aim

To identify the experiences of patients, parents or carers when a child/young person is prescribed a new long-term medicine.

Method

Patients' prescribed a new long-term (>6 weeks) medicine were recruited from a single UK paediatric hospital out-patient pharmacy.

A semi-structured questionnaire was administered to participants, via telephone, 6 weeks after the dispensing of their medicine. The questionnaire included the following themes: information requirements, resources used to seek further information, medicine administration issues, new concerns or questions that have arisen, adverse effects, arranging repeat supplies and an assessment of adherence.

The results were analysed using Microsoft Excel 2013 and NVivo Version 10.

Results

Fifty patients consented and were included in the study. Eighteen (36%) participants had undertaken further research prior to taking/administering their new medicine. 13 (72%) of these used the internet for further information. Participants had further concerns/questions in 18 (36%) cases with 7 (38.9%) contacting the hospital team for further advice. Thirteen (26%) participants experienced difficulty administering/taking the medicine. Sixteen (36%) believed that they had experienced an adverse effect. Eight (16%) participants experienced difficulties when obtaining further supplies. With regard to adherence, 17 (34%) participants had forgotten a dose on at least one occasion and 4 (8%) found it difficult to keep to the medication regimen.

Conclusion

This research has demonstrated that paediatric patients, parents and carers experience a wide range of issues during the first few weeks after starting a new medicine. This is in accordance with a recent review of non-adherence in paediatric long-term medical conditions.1 The New Medicines Service (NMS) offered through community pharmacists is designed to support patients' who have recently been prescribed a medicine to manage a long-term condition.2 However, this is not readily available to children/young people or their carers. The main barriers being the targeted conditions included in the service, consent and exclusion of undertaking an NMS consultation with a carer. Further research is required to establish and evaluate a paediatric specific medication review service for children/young people and their parents/carers when a new long-term medicine has been prescribed. This research will support the recent research recommendation of the National Institute of Health and Care Excellence.3
INVOLVING CHILDREN AND THEIR PARENTS IN RESEARCH DESIGN
Authors: Hibberd Suzannah
Published: August 2016

Background

Article 12 of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, states that children should be involved in decisions that directly affect them.1 Research involving children should ensure that the opinions and assistance of children and young people is sought at the beginning of the project as their perspectives may influence all aspects of the research design.

Aim

To describe the challenges recruiting paediatric patients and members of the public to consult on the design of a research project.

Method

Posters were put up around the Children's Hospital including pharmacy to recruit paediatric patients and parents to review a research proposal involving children with long-term conditions.

Results

There were two responses to the poster, a father and his 15 year old daughter, and a father with a 2 year old child. The father of the 15 year old attended the initial planning meeting, unfortunately the 15 year old and the father of the 2 year old were unable to attend on the day although both agreed to participate in the project. The meeting gave the opportunity to explain the research proposal and answer questions. It was established that the lay team would review the lay summary, participant information leaflet (PIL), and questionnaires that would be sent to the participants. It was arranged that all further contact would be via email due to travel constraints.

Patient and public involvement (PPI) in research requires the individuals to be reimbursed for their time. The National Institute for Health Research rate is £18.75 per hour. The lay team members were informed of this and were reimbursed for attending the planning meeting.

Conclusions

The use of posters to recruit PPI into the research design had limited success. Since recruitment, the Children's Hospital has launched a youth partnership which may be able to assist in recruitment of lay team members in the future.

The logistics of how to pay the lay team members needed to be resolved before their recruitment to ensure timely payment. A form has been created to enable timely payment.

Face to face meetings allow for greater discussion between all lay members which may lead to more ideas and opinions being generated than when communicating via email. When working via email, the amount of time spent on the project can not be verified. It should be specified from the start how long the work is expected to take. An advantage of using email is that costs reimbursed do not include travel expenses.

When involving young people of school age it must be remembered that meetings need to be arranged outside of school hours which may be difficult for the researcher to accommodate.

The lay members of the team provided valuable feedback regarding the wording of the lay summary, PIL and research tools leading to alterations being made before submission to the ethics committee.
Palliative care evidence review service (PaCERS): a rapid systematic approach to identifying high quality evidence on palliative care
Authors: Gee Peter , Woodward Amanda , Nelson Annmarie , Mann Mala , Byrne Anthony
Published: August 2016

Introduction

The importance of relating clinical practice more closely to evidence, is recognised by health and social care professionals and commissioners alike. However a significant obstacle is the lack of time to locate and read the relevant literature. Additionally, the expectation to assess quality and deal with conflicting information can be challenging. Therefore, we have initiated PaCERS to support professionals and other decision makers working in palliative care.

Aim

The aim of this service is to conduct rapid evidence reviews on questions of current and direct importance to clinical care or service delivery, producing critically appraised summaries of available evidence, in the shortest possible timeframe. Responding directly to external clinical/organisational calls for evidence, the service will also facilitate at-pace integration of research findings into service development, and will help to embed palliative care research into clinical practice.

Method

The service will enable palliative care professionals to gain an overview of literature relevant to the topic of immediate interest in order to inform future practice/service design, confirm that current practice reflects contemporary research evidence and identify areas that require further research. A web-based repository of all reviews produced through PaCERS will be made available to palliative care decision makers.

Results

We have held a highly productive workshop with clinical colleagues to refine our processes and achieve consensus on how best PaCERS can serve the palliative care community. One full review, which identifies best practice models for end of life and palliative care in rural areas, has been completed.

Conclusion

This service will impact directly on palliative care clinicians and other decision makers, and indirectly on patients/carers in receipt of palliative care. This research evidence review service can provide guidance for a variety of palliative care issues including round the clock palliative care.
Are subcutaneous palliative medicines available and accessible: an out of hours (OOH) audit in sheffield
Authors: Miller Elizabeth , Morgan Julie D , Blenkinsopp Alison , Wong Christina
Published: August 2016

Introduction

NICE quality standards (2011) state palliative care drugs should be fully accessible 24/7. National drug shortages, insufficient local stockholdings and prescriptions for items not on the recommended palliative list can make this problematic especially out of hours (OOH). There is little research on referral patterns for accessing subcutaneous medicines OOH.

Objectives

Determine if subcutaneous palliative medicines are fully available OOH Investigate whether supplies vary between hospital and community pharmaciesUnderstand referral patterns to access medication

Method

A 12 month retrospective audit of GP OOH supplies from a hospital pharmacy with a prospective 4 week audit and carer survey in a large community pharmacy providing OOH supplies.

Results

Locally derived standards from commissioned service set at 100% (n = 68 in GP OOH/hospital, n = 21 in community pharmacy).

100% of core subcutaneous medicines were available 24/7. Use of midazolam, diamorphine and hyoscine butylbromide similar across both settings; however levomepromazine was more common in the community following a national shortage of haloperidol. See table 1.

29% of community pharmacy issues were for formulations not on the recommended palliative list.

80% (4/5) patient referrals were made to the community pharmacy; 20% (1/5) going to more than one pharmacy.

Abstract 61 Table 1

Subcutaneous palliative care drug supplies

Drug name

GP OOH/hospital pharmacy supplies

No. (%)

Community pharmacy supplies

No. (%)

Midazolam Injection (various strengths)

19 (28)

5 (24)

Diamorphine Injection (various strengths)

17 (25)

8 (38)

Haloperidol Injection 5 mg

5 (7)

1 (5)

Hyoscine Butylbromide Injection 20 mg

13 (19)

4 (19)

Levomepromazine Injection 25 mg

1 (1)

3 (14)

Morphine Injection 10 mg

3 (4)

0 (0)

Oxycodone Injection (various strengths)

6 (9)

0 (0)

Other Injections

4 (6)

0 (0)

Total

68

21

Conclusion

Subcutaneous palliative care drugs are fully available in the OOH setting however further research should be undertaken to assess referral patterns.

Reference

National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). Quality Standard 13 End of life care for adults. London: NICE; 2011
Interventions to reduce inequalities in vaccine uptake in children and adolescents aged <19 years: a systematic review
Authors: Crocker-Buque Tim , Edelstein Michael , Mounier-Jack Sandra
Published: August 2016

Background

In high-income countries, substantial differences exist in vaccine uptake relating to socioeconomic status, gender, ethnic group, geographic location and religious belief. This paper updates a 2009 systematic review on effective interventions to decrease vaccine uptake inequalities in light of new technologies applied to vaccination and new vaccine programmes (eg, human papillomavirus in adolescents).

Methods

We searched MEDLINE, Embase, ASSIA, The Campbell Collaboration, CINAHL, The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Eppi Centre, Eric and PsychINFO for intervention, cohort or ecological studies conducted at primary/community care level in children and young people from birth to 19 years in OECD countries, with vaccine uptake or coverage as outcomes, published between 2008 and 2015.

Results

The 41 included studies evaluated complex multicomponent interventions (n=16), reminder/recall systems (n=18), outreach programmes (n=3) or computer-based interventions (n=2). Complex, locally designed interventions demonstrated the best evidence for effectiveness in reducing inequalities in deprived, urban, ethnically diverse communities. There is some evidence that postal and telephone reminders are effective, however, evidence remains mixed for text-message reminders, although these may be more effective in adolescents. Interventions that escalated in intensity appeared particularly effective. Computer-based interventions were not effective. Few studies targeted an inequality specifically, although several reported differential effects by the ethnic group.

Conclusions

Locally designed, multicomponent interventions should be used in urban, ethnically diverse, deprived populations. Some evidence is emerging for text-message reminders, particularly in adolescents. Further research should be conducted in the UK and Europe with a focus on reducing specific inequalities.
Robust Wavelet Stabilized ‘Footprints of Uncertainty’ for Fuzzy System Classifiers to Automatically Detect Sharp Waves in the EEG after Hypoxia Ischemia
Authors: Abbasi Hamid , Bennet Laura , Gunn Alistair J. , Unsworth Charles P.
Published: August 2016

Currently, there are no developed methods to detect sharp wave transients that exist in the latent phase after hypoxia-ischemia (HI) in the electroencephalogram (EEG) in order to determine if these micro-scale transients are potential biomarkers of HI. A major issue with sharp waves in the HI-EEG is that they possess a large variability in their sharp wave profile making it difficult to build a compact ‘footprint of uncertainty’ (FOU) required for ideal performance of a Type-2 fuzzy logic system (FLS) classifier. In this paper, we develop a novel computational EEG analysis method to robustly detect sharp waves using over 30[Formula: see text]h of post occlusion HI-EEG from an equivalent, in utero, preterm fetal sheep model cohort. We demonstrate that initial wavelet transform (WT) of the sharp waves stabilizes the variation in their profile and thus permits a highly compact FOU to be built, hence, optimizing the performance of a Type-2 FLS. We demonstrate that this method leads to higher overall performance of [Formula: see text] for the clinical [Formula: see text] sampled EEG and [Formula: see text] for the high resolution [Formula: see text] sampled EEG that is improved upon over conventional standard wavelet [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], respectively, and fuzzy approaches [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text], respectively, when performed in isolation.
Three-body quantum Coulomb problem: Analytic continuation
Authors: Turbiner A. V. , Lopez Vieyra J. C. , Olivares Pilón H.
Published: August 2016

The second (unphysical) critical charge in the three-body quantum Coulomb system of a nucleus of positive charge [Formula: see text] and mass [Formula: see text], and two electrons, predicted by Stillinger has been calculated to be equal to [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] for infinite and finite (proton) mass [Formula: see text], respectively. It is shown that in both cases, the ground state energy [Formula: see text] (analytically continued beyond the first critical charge [Formula: see text], for which the ionization energy vanishes, to [Formula: see text][Formula: see text][Formula: see text][Formula: see text][Formula: see text]) has a square-root branch point with exponent 3/2 at [Formula: see text] in the complex [Formula: see text]-plane. Based on analytic continuation, the second, excited, spin-singlet bound state of negative hydrogen ion H[Formula: see text] is predicted to be at −0.51554 a.u. (−0.51531 a.u. for the finite proton mass [Formula: see text]). The first critical charge [Formula: see text] is found accurately for a finite proton mass [Formula: see text] in the Lagrange mesh method, [Formula: see text].
Classical conformal blocks
Authors: Menotti Pietro
Published: August 2016

We give a simple iterative procedure to compute the classical conformal blocks on the sphere to all order in the modulus.
Horizon shells: Classical structure at the horizon of a black hole
Authors: Blau Matthias , O’Loughlin Martin
Published: August 2016

We address the question of the uniqueness of the Schwarzschild black hole by considering the following question: How many meaningful solutions of the Einstein equations exist that agree with the Schwarzschild solution (with a fixed mass [Formula: see text]) everywhere except maybe on a codimension one hypersurface? The perhaps surprising answer is that the solution is unique (and uniquely the Schwarzschild solution everywhere in spacetime) unless the hypersurface is the event horizon of the Schwarzschild black hole, in which case there are actually an infinite number of distinct solutions. We explain this result and comment on some of the possible implications for black hole physics.
Topological induced gravity
Authors: Oda Ichiro
Published: August 2016

We propose a topological model of induced gravity (pregeometry) where both Newton’s coupling constant and the cosmological constant appear as integration constants in solving field equations. The matter sector of a scalar field is also considered, and by solving field equations it is shown that various types of cosmological solutions in the Friedmann–Robertson–Walker (FRW) universe can be obtained. A detailed analysis is given of the meaning of the BRST transformations, which make the induced gravity be a topological field theory, by means of the canonical quantization analysis, and the physical reason why such BRST transformations are needed in the present formalism is clarified. Finally, we propose a dynamical mechanism for fixing the Lagrange multiplier fields by following the Higgs mechanism. The present study clearly indicates that the induced gravity can be constructed at the classical level without recourse to quantum fluctuations of matter and suggests an interesting relationship between the induced gravity and the topological quantum-field theory (TQFT).
BROWNIAN DYNAMICS SIMULATION OF CATCH TO SLIP TRANSITION OVER A MODEL ENERGY LANDSCAPE
Authors: GUPTA V. K.
Published: August 2016

We perform Brownian dynamics simulation (BDS) of catch to slip transition over a model energy landscape. Through our BDS we demonstrate that for forces below the critical force the bond rupture occurs mostly through the catch pathway while for forces above the critical force the bond rupture occurs mostly through the slip pathway. We also demonstrate that the shoulder in the bond rupture force distribution switches to peak as the loading rate increases progressively and the bond lifetime is maximized at the model dependent critical force. The force dependent bond lifetime obtained via transforming the bond rupture force distribution at a given loading rate is in excellent agreement with that obtained from our BDS at constant forces. An alternative to the current mechanism of catch to slip transition is presented and validated through BDS.
Norm resolvent approximation of thin homogeneous tubes by heterogeneous ones
Authors: de Oliveira César R. , Verri Alessandra A.
Published: August 2016

We study the operator [Formula: see text] restricted to a waveguide [Formula: see text], with heterogeneous function [Formula: see text] constant in the longitudinal direction. The purpose is to obtain an effective operator, in the norm resolvent sense, when the diameter of [Formula: see text] tends to zero with heterogeneity approaching a homogeneous situation (i.e. a constant function [Formula: see text]). The effective operator presents a potential that, besides the traditional dependence on waveguide geometric properties, there is also a contribution from [Formula: see text] which results, when combined with the curvature, for example, in the possibility of a repulsive interaction.
Very singular problems with critical nonlinearities in two dimensions
Authors: Prashanth S. , Tiwari Sweta , Sreenadh K.
Published: August 2016

In this paper, we consider the following singular elliptic problem involving an exponential nonlinearity in two dimensions: [Formula: see text] [Formula: see text] where [Formula: see text] is a bounded domain with smooth boundary, [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. We show the existence and multiplicity of positive solutions globally with respect to the bifurcation parameter [Formula: see text].
The Gibbs paradox and the physical criteria for indistinguishability of identical particles
Authors: Unnikrishnan C. S.
Published: August 2016

Gibbs paradox in the context of statistical mechanics addresses the issue of additivity of entropy of mixing gases. The usual discussion attributes the paradoxical situation to classical distinguishability of identical particles and credits quantum theory for enabling indistinguishability of identical particles to solve the problem. We argue that indistinguishability of identical particles is already a feature in classical mechanics and this is clearly brought out when the problem is treated in the language of information and associated entropy. We pinpoint the physical criteria for indistinguishability that is crucial for the treatment of the Gibbs’ problem and the consistency of its solution with conventional thermodynamics. Quantum mechanics provides a quantitative criterion, not possible in the classical picture, for the degree of indistinguishability in terms of visibility of quantum interference, or overlap of the states as pointed out by von Neumann, thereby endowing the entropy expression with mathematical continuity and physical reasonableness.
Porous NiCo2S4 Networks as Electrodes for Electrochemical Supercapacitors
Authors: Du Jimin , Li Kaidi , Qian Yongteng , Yang Mengke , Wang Huiming , He Wen , Harnchana Viyada
Published: August 2016

Porous NiCo2S4 networks have been successfully synthesized by a facile one-pot solvothermal method without the use of any surfactant or template. Crystal structure, morphology, composition and surface area of the as-synthesized samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction, field-emission scanning electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and Brunauer–Emmet–Teller techniques. Owing to their porous nature and small crystalline size, the as-prepared NiCo2S4 networks based supercapacitor electrodes showed a high specific capacitance of 1250[Formula: see text]F[Formula: see text]g[Formula: see text] at 1[Formula: see text]A[Formula: see text]g[Formula: see text], and excellent cycling stability with the retention capacity of 70.3% after 5000 cycles in the KOH aqueous solution electrolyte.
Exergoenvironmental Evaluation of the Desiccant Air-Conditioning System Subjected to Different Regeneration Temperatures
Authors: Enteria Napoleon , Yoshino Hiroshi , Sataki Akira
Published: August 2016

This paper presents the exergoenvironment analysis of the developed desiccant-based air-conditioning system subjected to different regeneration temperatures. Exergoenvironment is a new evaluation tool combining the exergetic and life-cycle analyses to determine the environmental effect of the system’s components and the energy utilized for the system’s operation. The different materials in the manufacture of the system’s components and sources of energy to operate the system have different environmental impacts. The results of the study show the system components exergy efficiency, system exergy destruction, relative environmental impact difference and exergoenvironmental impact factor which are important parameters for this analysis. It shows that some components need exergy performance improvements through replacement with high efficiency components to minimize environmental impact. Based on the results, application of the exergoenvironmental analysis is an important tool for knowing the environmental impact of the system components and its operation. The method is important in desiccant air-conditioning systems in which different materials of the components and energy are utilized for the system design and operation.
Non-coding RNAs in Development and Disease: Background, Mechanisms, and Therapeutic Approaches
Authors: Beermann Julia , Piccoli Maria-Teresa , Viereck Janika , Thum Thomas
Published: August 2016

Advances in RNA-sequencing techniques have led to the discovery of thousands of non-coding transcripts with unknown function. There are several types of non-coding linear RNAs such as microRNAs (miRNA) and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNA), as well as circular RNAs (circRNA) consisting of a closed continuous loop. This review guides the reader through important aspects of non-coding RNA biology. This includes their biogenesis, mode of actions, physiological function, as well as their role in the disease context (such as in cancer or the cardiovascular system). We specifically focus on non-coding RNAs as potential therapeutic targets and diagnostic biomarkers.
Squamous Cell Cancer Arising in an African American Male Cheek from Discoid Lupus: A Rare Case and Review of the Literature
Authors: Shapera Emanuel A. , Kim Paul D.
Published: August 2016

A 50-year-old African American male with Discoid Lupus Erythematosus (DLE) presented to the dermatology clinic for a rapidly enlarging left cheek mass. The mass failed to resolve with conservative measures. A biopsy revealed poorly differentiated Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC). He was referred to Head and Neck Surgery and successfully underwent a resection with free flap reconstruction. Postoperatively he did well. Squamous cell skin carcinomas arising from lesions of Discoid Lupus are rare and aggressive tumors with greater likelihood of metastases. Cases have been reported among patients with different clinical characteristics; we present a rare case arising in an African American male on the face and involving the ear.
Acute de novo Leukemia in Estonia and Western Sweden 1982-2006: Positive Trend in the Survival of Acute Leukemia over 25 Years
Authors: Hulegårdh Erik , Punab Mari , Holmberg Erik , Palk Katrin , Laane Edward , Everaus Hele , Wennström Lovisa , Stockelberg Dick
Published: August 2016

This study focuses on the incidence, treatment, and survival of de novo acute leukemia in a 25-year perspective in western Sweden and Estonia. At the beginning of our study, Estonia was a part of the Eastern bloc with planned economy, but since 1991 it is a member of the European Union and transforming into a market economy. Survival rates have steadily increased in both countries. However, a gap between their survival curves remains. Based on our data, it is difficult to explain the big difference in the 5-year relative survival in favor of western Sweden (55 vs. 22%). In Germany, there was a big difference in overall cancer survival between East and West Germany after the fall of the iron curtain, but today no difference is seen. Differences in survival are probably due to a higher proportion of intense chemotherapy regimens and a higher rate of hematopoietic stem cell transplantations in Sweden. Other important factors might be better supportive care and diagnostics as well as better adjuvant therapy. Better staff training and conditions in wards are also factors that might play an essential role.
The Value of 3D Printing Models of Left Atrial Appendage Using Real-Time 3D Transesophageal Echocardiographic Data in Left Atrial Appendage Occlusion: Applications toward an Era of Truly Personalized Medicine
Authors: Liu Peng , Liu Rijing , Zhang Yan , Liu Yingfeng , Tang Xiaoming , Cheng Yanzhen
Published: August 2016

Aims and Objectives: The objective of this study was to assess the clinical feasibility of generating 3D printing models of left atrial appendage (LAA) using real-time 3D transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) data for preoperative reference of LAA occlusion. Background: Percutaneous LAA occlusion can effectively prevent patients with atrial fibrillation from stroke. However, the anatomical structure of LAA is so complicated that adequate information of its structure is essential for successful LAA occlusion. Emerging 3D printing technology has the demonstrated potential to structure more accurately than conventional imaging modalities by creating tangible patient-specific models. Typically, 3D printing data sets are acquired from CT and MRI, which may involve intravenous contrast, sedation, and ionizing radiation. It has been reported that 3D models of LAA were successfully created by the data acquired from CT. However, 3D printing of the LAA using real-time 3D TEE data has not yet been explored. Methods: Acquisition of 3D transesophageal echocardiographic data from 8 patients with atrial fibrillation was performed using the Philips EPIQ7 ultrasound system. Raw echocardiographic image data were opened in Philips QLAB and converted to ‘Cartesian DICOM' format and imported into Mimics® software to create 3D models of LAA, which were printed using a rubber-like material. The printed 3D models were then used for preoperative reference and procedural simulation in LAA occlusion. Results: We successfully printed LAAs of 8 patients. Each LAA costs approximately CNY 800-1,000 and the total process takes 16-17 h. Seven of the 8 Watchman devices predicted by preprocedural 2D TEE images were of the same sizes as those placed in the real operation. Interestingly, 3D printing models were highly reflective of the shape and size of LAAs, and all device sizes predicted by the 3D printing model were fully consistent with those placed in the real operation. Also, the 3D printed model could predict operating difficulty and the presence of a peridevice leak. Conclusions: 3D printing of the LAA using real-time 3D transesophageal echocardiographic data has a perfect and rapid application in LAA occlusion to assist with physician planning and decision making.
Extranodal Lymphoproliferative Processes and Flow Cytometry
Authors: Stacchini Alessandra , Demurtas Anna , Aliberti Sabrina
Published: August 2016

Objective: Fine-needle aspiration (FNA) cytology is a safe and cost-effective technique for the diagnosis of lymphoproliferative processes, especially when correlated with clinical and imaging studies. However, cytology alone may be unable to detect a lymphoid neoplastic process, as architectural features are less obvious than in histologic preparations and, in certain cases, reactive processes may mimic lymphoma. Flow cytometry (FC) has been recognized as an important ancillary technique in the diagnosis of lymphoid neoplasms and it can be used in conjunction with FNA in the evaluation of lymphoproliferative processes. Study Design: We performed a review of the published literature concerning FC applied to the detection of salivary glands and thyroid lymphoproliferative processes, which are frequently related to autoimmune diseases and difficult to diagnose by cytomorphology alone. Results: FC is able to detect and subtype non-Hodgkin lymphomas and may contribute to the exclusion of a neoplastic process in cytologically unclear cases. Conclusions: FC can be successfully applied in the differential diagnosis of lymphoproliferative processes in the head and neck region. The FNA-FC combined approach can reduce time to therapy and may prevent unnecessary surgical biopsies.
Adverse Events Following International Normalized Ratio Reversal in Intracerebral Hemorrhage
Authors: Laible Mona , Jenetzky Ekkehart , Beynon Christopher , Müller Oliver Josef , Sander Peter , Schüler Svenja , Purrucker Jan , Möhlenbruch Markus , Steiner Thorsten , Veltkamp Roland , Ringleb Peter Arthur , Rizos Timolaos
Published: August 2016

Background: Prothrombin complex concentrates (PCCs) are frequently used to reverse the effect of vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) in patients with non-traumatic intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). However, information on the rate of thromboembolic events (TEs) and allergic events after PCC therapy in VKA-ICH patients is limited. Methods: Consecutive VKA-ICH patients treated with PCC at our institution between December 2004 and June 2014 were included into this retrospective observational study. We recorded international normalized ratio (INR) values before and after PCC treatment, baseline clinical characteristics including the premorbid modified Rankin Scale (pmRS) score, TE and allergic event that occurred during the hospital stay. All events were classified by 3 reviewers as being ‘related', ‘probably related', ‘possibly related', ‘unlikely related' or ‘not related' to treatment with PCC. To identify factors associated with TEs, log-rank analyses were applied. Results: Two hundred and five patients were included. Median INR was 2.8 (interquartile range (IQR) 2.2-3.8) before and 1.3 (IQR 1.2-1.4) after PCC treatment and a median of 1,500 IU PCC (IQR 1,000-2,500) was administered. Nineteen TEs were observed (9.3%); none were classified ‘related' but 9 were classified as ‘possibly' or ‘probably related' to PCC infusion (4.4%). One allergic reaction (0.5%), ‘unlikely related' to PCC, was observed. In the whole cohort, PCC doses >2,000-3,000 IU, ICH volumes >40 ml, National Institute of Health Stroke Scale values >10 and a pmRS >2 were associated with the development of TEs (p = 0.031, p = 0.034, p = 0.050 and p = 0.036, respectively). Conclusions: Overall, INR reversal with PCC appears safe. Though no clear relationship between higher PCC dosing and TEs was observed, PCC doses between >2,000 and 3,000 IU and higher morbidity at ICH onset were associated with TEs. Hence, individual titration of PCC to avoid exposure to unnecessarily high doses using point-of-care devices should be prospectively explored.
Peptides inhibiting heparanase procoagulant activity significantly reduce tumour growth and vascularisation in a mouse model
Authors: Crispel Yonatan , Axelman Elena , Tatour Mifleh , Kogan Inna , Nevo Neta , Brenner Benjamin , Nadir Yona
Published: August 2016

Heparanase is implicated in angiogenesis and tumour progression. We previously demonstrated that heparanase might also affect the haemostatic system in a non-enzymatic manner. It forms a complex and enhances the activity of the blood coagulation initiator tissue factor (TF). Peptides that we generated from TF pathway inhibitor (TFPI)-2, which inhibit heparanase procoagulant activity, were recently demonstrated to attenuate inflammation in a sepsis mouse model. The present study was designated to explore peptides effects on tumour growth and vascularisation. Cell lines of mouse melanoma (B16), mouse breast cancer (EMT-6), and human breast cancer (MDA-231) were injected subcutaneously to mice. Inhibitory peptides 5, 6 and 7 were injected subcutaneously in the area opposite to the tumour side. In the three tumour cell lines, peptides 5, 6 and 7 inhibited tumour growth and vascularisation in a dose-dependent manner, reaching a 2/3 reduction compared to control tumours (p<0.001). Additionally, a survival advantage (p<0.05) and reduced plasma thrombin-antithrombin complex (p<0.05) were observed in the treatment groups. Peptides delayed tumour relapse by six days and inhibited relapsed tumour size (p<0.001). In vitro, peptides did not inhibit tumour cell proliferation, migration or heparanase degradation of heparan sulfate chains, but significantly decreased tube formation. In conclusion, peptides inhibiting heparanase procoagulant activity significantly reduced tumour growth, vascularisation, and relapse. The procoagulant domain in heparanase protein may play a role in tumour growth, suggesting a new mechanism of coagulation system involvement in cancer.
Um projeto para o Brasil: arquitetura e política na trajetória de Lina Bo Bardi no Brasil, 1946–1977
Authors: Alves André Augusto de Almeida
Published: August 2016

Combinando um aguçado olhar estrangeiro e a paixão pela civilização e homem brasileiro, uma atuação plural e uma rica experiência em que se defronta com as dramáticas realidades do século XX no Brasil e além, Lina Bo Bardi participa intensivamente do debate sobre a modernização do país, concebendo verdadeiro projeto de nação moderna. A trajetória da arquiteta adquire, assim, inevitável dimensão política, que se busca aqui compreender.
Lina Bo Bardi
Authors: Comas Carlos Eduardo
Published: August 2016

Resenha do Livro: LIMA, Zeuler R.M. - Lina Bo Bardi. Yale University Press, 2013.
Experiências artísticas e a desestabilização do conceito de identidade
Authors: Raquel Fernanda
Published: August 2016

Resenha do Livro: GENIOLI, Ana Amélia C. Identidade[s] – a produção da diferença em Arte Contemporânea, São Paulo: Irtermeios, 2014.
Positive relationship between risk-taking behaviour and aggression in subordinate but not dominant males of a Cuban poeciliid fish
Authors: Bertram Susan M. , Healy Connor , Hogge Jessica , Kritikos Zoe , Pipitone Jessica , Kolluru Gita R.
Published: August 2016

Studies of integrated phenotypes sometimes reveal correlations between mating effort, favoured by sexual selection, and risk-taking, favoured by survival selection. We usedGirardinus metallicusto examine the relationship between rank order of mating effort and risk-taking. We measured risk-taking in a novel environment containing a predator. We then paired males, using aggression to assign dominant or subordinate status, and examined mating behaviour. Dominant males showed higher mating effort, but did not exhibit any relationship between risk-taking and mating effort. Subordinate males exhibited a cross-context correlation, as males were either more willing to take risks and aggressive or more hesitant to take risks and nonaggressive. Less risk-averse, aggressive subordinate males may gain fitness advantages in a more realistic dominance hierarchy, despite being outranked by the rival with which they were paired in our study. Results highlight intraspecific variation in behavioural correlations and the importance of social environment in shaping integrated phenotypes.
Maculabatis ambigua sp. nov., a new whipray (Myliobatiformes: Dasyatidae) from the Western Indian Ocean
Authors: LAST PETER R. , BOGORODSKY SERGEY V. , ALPERMANN TILMAN J.
Published: August 2016

A new whipray, Maculabatis ambigua sp. nov., described from material collected from the Red Sea and off Zanzibar (Tanzania), is probably more widespread in the northwestern Indian Ocean. It has been confused with other Indian Ocean whiprays of the genus Maculabatis (formerly Himantura in part) i.e. M. gerrardi and M. randalli. Maculabatis ambigua sp. nov. was first distinguished from these species by molecular analysis, and subsequently by a combination of morphological characters, i.e. disc shape, coloration, morphometrics and squamation. Molecular data suggest that it is most closely related to the morphologically similar M. gerrardi, which occurs further east in the Indian Ocean (Oman to Indonesia) and North-West Pacific (north to Taiwan). The dorsal disc of M. gerrardi typically has a full or partial coverage of white spots (usually present at least on the posterior disc), whereas M. ambigua sp. nov. is plain coloured. Maculabatis randalli, which occurs in the Persian and Arabian Gulfs, is plain coloured, but has a longer disc relative to its width, more acute and longer snout, longer head and larger intergill width, wider internasal distance, and a narrower secondary denticle band in adults. Maculabatis ambigua sp. nov. is relatively common in the shallow, soft-sedimentary habitats of the southern Red Sea from where it is taken as low-value or discarded bycatch of trawl fisheries. It is a medium-sized whipray with a maximum confirmed size of 840 mm disc width.
Laccomimus xikrin sp. nov. and new records of other species of Laccomimus Toledo & Michat, 2015 (Coleoptera: Dytiscidae: Laccophilinae) from Brazil
Authors: BRAGA RAFAEL BENZI , FERREIRA-JR NELSON
Published: August 2016

The genus Laccomimus Toledo & Michat, 2015 was recently erected for small drop-shape Dytiscidae beetles commonly found in Tropical South America associated with lentic waters. In the present paper a new species, Laccomimus xikrin sp. nov., is described and illustrated. New records from Brazil are presented for Laccomimus alvarengi Toledo & Michat, 2015 from Amazonas state, L. bordoni Toledo & Michat, 2015 from São Paulo state and L. variegatus Toledo & Michat, 2015 from Pará state.