bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Histoarchitecture of the Ovary of Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) annulatus during Pre‐ and Postengorgement Period
Authors: Kanapadinchareveetil Sreelekha , Chandrasekhar Leena , Gopi Jyothimol , Ranjan Lenka Dibya , Vasu Aswathi , KGopalan Ajith Kumar , Nair Suresh N. , Ravindran Reghu , Juliet Sanis , Ghosh Srikanta
Published: January 2015

The present communication describes the detailed day wise study of histological changes of the ovary of
Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) annulatus in the postengorgement period together with the systematic
classification of their oocytes. The ovary of R. (B.) annulatus is panoistic type with an asynchronous
development of oocytes. All the stages (II, III, IV, and V) of oocytes except stage I were similar to R. (B.) microplus.
The stage I oocytes showed basophilia, which was not reported earlier in other species of ticks. Day wise changes were in the form of presence of oogonia in
partially fed and day one engorged adults, considerable degeneration of oocytes on day two, emergence of new wave of oocytes on day three,
presence of mature oocytes up to day eight, and complete degeneration of ovarian tissue from day eight onwards. The degenerative changes
in the ovary appeared initially in the oocytes followed by germinal epithelium.
Effect of Enhancement Technique on Nonuniform and Uniform Ultrasound Images
Authors: Lehana Parveen , Rajput Priti , Kumari Santoresh , Arya Sandeep
Published: January 2015

The absence of adequate scientific resources in the area of medical sciences sometimes leads to improper diagnosis of diseases and hence the treatments of such diseases are affected badly. However, with the advancement of technology, the complicacy of various malfunctions inside the human body reduces. Ultrasound imaging is one of the biomedical scanning techniques that let the pathologist make comment reasonably and accurately on the disease or irregularity seen in the scan while low imaging quality lets the diagnosis go wrong. Even a little distortion can route the pathologist away from the main cause of the disease. In this research work, the enhancement of dark ultrasound images has been done. An algorithm is developed using enhancement technique for nonuniform and uniform dark images. Finally, we compared the quality of the processed and unprocessed images. Both ETNUD and mean and median filtering techniques were used for image analysis.
Effect of Synthesis Temperature, Nucleation Time, and Postsynthesis Heat Treatment of ZnO Nanoparticles and Its Sensing Properties
Authors: Manzoor Umair , Tuz Zahra Fatima , Rafique Sidra , Moin Muhammad Tahir , Mujahid Mohammad
Published: January 2015

Control in size, crystallinity, and optical properties of ZnO nanoparticles (NPs) synthesized via coprecipitate method were investigated. A systematic change in particle size, crystallinity, and optical properties was observed by increasing synthesis temperature from 65°C to 75°C. A detailed study also suggested that smaller nucleation time is better to control the size distribution but the crystallinity will be compromised accordingly. Postannealing of ZnO NPs at 400°C also improves the crystal quality. Ultraviolet (UV) sensors were successfully synthesized and the results suggested that as‐synthesized ZnO NPs can be used as active material for sensor applications.
Hepatorenal Syndrome: Aetiology, Diagnosis, and Treatment
Authors: Low G. , Alexander G. J. M. , Lomas D. J.
Published: January 2015

Acute renal impairment is common in patients with chronic liver disease, occurring in approximately 19% of hospitalised patients with cirrhosis. A variety of types of renal impairment are recognised. The most important of these is the hepatorenal syndrome, a functional renal impairment due to circulatory and neurohormonal abnormalities that underpin cirrhosis. It is one of the most severe complications of cirrhosis with survival often measured in weeks to months. A variety of treatment options exist with early diagnosis and appropriate treatment providing the best hope for cure. This paper provides a comprehensive and up-to-date review of hepatorenal syndrome and lays out the topic according to the following sections: pathophysiology, historical developments, diagnostic criteria and limitations, epidemiology, precipitating factors, predictors, clinical and laboratory findings, prognosis, treatment options, prophylaxis, and conclusion.
Maternal Reading Self-Efficacy Associated with Perceived Barriers to Reading
Authors: Lin Joyce , Reich Stephanie M. , Kataoka Sabrina , Farkas George
Published: January 2015

Although early reading practices impact a host of child literacy, language, and school outcomes, many parents do not read to their young children. One possible explanation for this lack of early literacy practices is mothers’ feelings about their ability to successfully read to their children. A series of multiple regressions were used to explore whether new mothers’ reading self-efficacy predicted their perceived barriers to reading to their 18-month-old children. Findings suggest that self-efficacy buffers against mother-centered (e.g., too tired), child-centered (e.g., toddler fussy), and structural (e.g., environmental distractions) barriers to reading. Given the importance of early literacy and that not all mothers read to their toddlers, increasing reading self-efficacy may offer a way to reduce perceived barriers to early literacy practices.
Isolated Vitamin D Deficiency Is Not Associated with Nonthyroidal Illness Syndrome, but with Thyroid Autoimmunity
Authors: Sayki Arslan Muyesser , Topaloglu Oya , Ucan Bekir , Karakose Melia , Karbek Basak , Tutal Esra , Caliskan Mustafa , Ginis Zeynep , Cakal Erman , Sahin Mustafa , Ozbek Mustafa , Delibasi Tuncay
Published: January 2015

Aim. This study aimed to compare thyroid functions, thyroid autoantibodies, and the existence of nonthyroidal illness syndrome (NTIS) according to vitamin D level. Materials and Methods. The study included age‐ and BMI‐matched healthy volunteers with and without vitamin D deficiency. In addition, the nonthyroidal illness syndrome status was evaluated. Results. Anti‐TPO positivity was significantly more common in those with severe and moderate vitamin D deficiency, as compared to those with a normal 25(OH)D level. Furthermore, TSH levels were significantly lower in those with severe and moderate vitamin D deficiency than in those with a normal 25(OH)D level. In addition, there was a significant weak inverse correlation between anti‐TPO positivity and the 25(OH)D level and a positive correlation between the TSH level and 25(OH)D level. Only 1 thyroid function test result was compatible with NTIS among the participants with moderate vitamin D deficiency; therefore the difference was not significant. Conclusions. The prevalence of thyroid autoantibody positivity was higher in those with severe and moderate vitamin D deficiency than in those with a normal 25(OH)D level. Additional large‐scale studies must be conducted to determine if vitamin D deficiency plays a causal role in the pathogenesis of Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and NTIS.
Active Magnetic Bearing Rotor Model Updating Using Resonance and MAC Error
Authors: Xu Yuanping , Zhou Jin , Di Long , Zhao Chen , Guo Qintao
Published: January 2015

Modern control techniques can improve the performance and robustness of a rotor active magnetic bearing (AMB) system. Since those control methods usually rely on system models, it is important to obtain a precise rotor AMB analytical model. However, the interference fits and shrink effects of rotor AMB cause inaccuracy to the final system model. In this paper, an experiment based model updating method is proposed to improve the accuracy of the finite element (FE) model used in a rotor AMB system. Modelling error is minimized by applying a numerical optimization Nelder-Mead simplex algorithm to properly adjust FE model parameters. Both the error resonance frequencies and modal assurance criterion (MAC) values are minimized simultaneously to account for the rotor natural frequencies as well as for the mode shapes. Verification of the updated rotor model is performed by comparing the experimental and analytical frequency response. The close agreements demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed model updating methodology.
Methamphetamine Ingestion Misdiagnosed asCentruroides sculpturatusEnvenomation
Authors: Strommen Joshua , Shirazi Farshad
Published: January 2015

The authors present a case report of a 17-month-old female child who ingested a large amount of methamphetamine that looked very similar clinically to a scorpion envenomation specific to the southwestern United States by the speciesCentruroides sculpturatus. The child was initially treated with 3 vials of antivenom specific for that scorpion species and showed a transient, though clinically relevant neurologic improvement. Her clinical course of sympathomimetic toxicity resumed and she was treated with intravenous fluids and benzodiazepines after blood analysis showed significant levels of d-methamphetamine. This case report is to specifically underline the clinical confusion in discerning between these two conditions and the realization of limited and/or expensive resources that may be used in the process.
Disturbances of Modulating Molecules (FOXP3, CTLA‐4/CD28/B7, and CD40/CD40L) mRNA Expressions in the Orbital Tissue from Patients with Severe Graves’ Ophthalmopathy
Authors: Pawlowski Przemyslaw , Wawrusiewicz-Kurylonek Natalia , Eckstein Anja , Reszec Joanna , Luczynski Wlodzimierz , Johnson Kristian , Kretowski Adam , Bakunowicz-Lazarczyk Alina , Gorska Maria , Szamatowicz Jacek , Chyczewski Lech , Mysliwiec Janusz
Published: January 2015

Purpose. To evaluate the relationship between the expression of orbital tissue mRNA for FOXP3, CTLA‐4/CD28/CD80/CD86, and CD40/CD40 and the severity of Graves’ orbitopathy (GO). Material and Methods. Orbital tissue was obtained from 26 patients with GO, with mild (n = 6) or severe GO (n = 20), and 7 healthy controls. The expression of mRNA of FOXP3, CTLA‐4/CD28/CD80/CD86, CD40/CD40L was measured by RT‐PCR. TCR and CD3 were evaluated by immunohistochemistry. Results. Higher mRNA for FoxP3 (relative expression: 1.4) and CD40 (1.27) and lower expression of CTLA‐4 (0.61) were found in the GO tissues versus controls. In severe GO as compared to mild GO higher mRNA expression for FoxP3 (1.35) and CD40 (1.4) and lower expression for CTLA‐4 (0.78), CD28 (0.62), and CD40L (0.56) were found. A positive correlation was found between FOXP3 mRNA and CD3 infiltration (R = 0.796, P = 0.0000001). Conclusions. The enhanced FOXP3 mRNA expression in GO samples may suggest the dysfunction of FOXP3 cells in the severe GO. The diminished mRNA expression of CTLA‐4 in severe GO may indicate inadequate T regulatory function. The enhanced mRNA expression of CD40 in severe GO and negative correlation to CRP mRNA may suggest their role in the active and inactive GO.
Larval Development of the European Lobster and How Small Heterochronic Shifts Lead to a More Pronounced Metamorphosis
Authors: Rötzer Marie A. I. N. , Haug Joachim T.
Published: January 2015

We redescribe the larval stages of the European lobster,Homarus gammarus, based on autofluorescence composite imaging. We focus on larval stages (II) to (IV). Compared to the American lobster,Homarus americanus, differences are most apparent in stage (III). This stage appears more mature inH. gammarus; for example, the rostrum is already curved and bears spines, and the appendages are better developed and longer and more differentiated. InH. americanusstage (III) shows a stronger resemblance to stage (II). As a result of the morphology of stage (III), the “metamorphic” moult between stage (III) and stage (IV) inH. gammarusis less drastic than inH. americanus. Metamorphosis is characterised by two criteria. It involves (1) a drastic change in morphology in (2) a short amount of time. It has hence been suggested that a more pronounced metamorphosis evolves by two factors affecting these criteria, namely, (1) the evolution of specialised larval features, which increase the morphological disparity between larva and adult that makes the change of morphology more drastic, and (2) the skipping of entire stages. This means larval forms ancestrally moult over several intermediate forms into the definite adult morphology. Yet, in more derived forms the stages with intermediate morphologies are no longer expressed; highly specialized larvae moult into the adult within a single moult (in the most extreme case) hence bridging the morphologies of larvae and adult in a shorter amount of time. The example of the twoHomarusspecies demonstrates that this explanation is not the only possible one. Additionally, differences of a single larval stage (in this case larval stage (III)) can lead to a more or less metamorphic-appearing ontogenetic sequence.
Identification of Pediatric Oral Health Core Competencies through Interprofessional Education and Practice
Authors: Hallas D. , Fernandez J. B. , Herman N. G. , Moursi A.
Published: January 2015

Over the past seven years, the Department of Pediatric Dentistry at New York University College of Dentistry (NYUCD) and the Advanced Practice: Pediatrics and the Pediatric Nurse Practitioner (PNP) program at New York University College of Nursing (NYUCN) have engaged in a program of formal educational activities with the specific goals of advancing interprofessional education, evidence-based practice, and interprofessional strategies to improve the oral-systemic health of infants and young children. Mentoring interprofessional students in all health care professions to collaboratively assess, analyze, and care-manage patients demands that faculty reflect on current practices and determine ways to enhance the curriculum to include evidence-based scholarly activities, opportunities for interprofessional education and practice, and interprofessional socialization. Through the processes of interprofessional education and practice, the pediatric nursing and dental faculty identified interprofessional performance and affective oral health core competencies for all dental and pediatric primary care providers. Students demonstrated achievement of interprofessional core competencies, after completing the interprofessional educational clinical practice activities at Head Start programs that included interprofessional evidence-based collaborative practice, case analyses, and presentations with scholarly discussions that explored ways to improve the oral health of diverse pediatric populations. The goal of improving the oral health of all children begins with interprofessional education that lays the foundations for interprofessional practice.
Precipitation Trends over Time Using Mann-Kendall and Spearman’s rho Tests in Swat River Basin, Pakistan
Authors: Ahmad Ijaz , Tang Deshan , Wang TianFang , Wang Mei , Wagan Bakhtawar
Published: January 2015

Accurately predicting precipitation trends is vital in the economic development of a country. This research investigated precipitation variability across 15 stations in the Swat River basin, Pakistan, over a 51-year study period (1961–2011). Nonparametric Mann-Kendall (MK) and Spearman’s rho (SR) statistical tests were used to detect trends in monthly, seasonal, and annual precipitation, and the trend-free prewhitening approach was applied to eliminate serial correlation in the precipitation time series. The results highlighted a mix of positive (increasing) and negative (decreasing) trends in monthly, seasonal, and annual precipitation. One station in particular, the Saidu Sharif station, showed the maximum number of significant monthly precipitation events, followed by Abazai, Khairabad, and Malakand. On the seasonal time scale, precipitation trends changed from the summer to the autumn season. The Saidu Sharif station revealed the highest positive trend (7.48 mm/year) in annual precipitation. In the entire Swat River basin, statistically insignificant trends were found in the subbasins for the annual precipitation series; however, the Lower Swat subbasin showed the maximum quantitative increase in the precipitation at a rate of 2.18 mm/year. The performance of the MK and SR tests was consistent at the verified significance level.
Design, Development, and Performance Evaluation of Solar Heating System for Disinfection of Domestic Roof-Harvested Rainwater
Authors: Akintola O. A. , Sangodoyin A. Y.
Published: January 2015

A box-type solar heater was designed, constructed, and used to determine the effect of solar heating on quality of domestic roof-harvested rainwater (DRHRW). During testing, naturally contaminated DRHRW was harvested in Ibadan, Nigeria, and released into the system at 93.96 Lh−1 (2.61×10-5 m3 s−1) in a continuous flow process. Water temperatures at inlet, within the heating chamber, and at outlet from the heating chamber and solar radiation were monitored at 10 min interval. Samples were collected at both inlet to and outlet from the heating chamber at 10 min interval for microbiological analysis. The highest plate stagnation temperature, under no-load condition, was 100°C. The solar water heater attained a maximum operational temperature of 75°C with 89.6 and 94.4% reduction in total viable count and total coliform count, respectively, while Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus were completely eradicated at this temperature. The solar heater developed proved to be effective in enhancing potability of DRHRW in Ibadan, Nigeria. This may be an appropriate household water treatment technology for developing countries, hence, a way of resolving problem of low quality water for potable uses.
Effects of Deer Grazing on Vegetation and Ground-Dwelling Insects in a Larch Forest in Okutama, Western Tokyo
Authors: Yamada Hodaka , Takatsuki Seiki
Published: January 2015

Sika deer (Cervus nippon) have experienced a rapid increase in the Japanese archipelago. Although the effects of deer grazing have been widely studied, the indirect effects have received little attention. Using an eight-year-old deer exclosure in western Tokyo (Japan), we studied the direct effects on plants and the indirect effects on insects and microenvironments. Plant biomass was 14 times higher inside the exclosure than outside. Shrubs (e.g.,Aralia elataandHydrangea paniculata) and trees (e.g.,Symplocos sawafutagiandClethra barbinervis) were more abundant inside, whereas only unpalatable trees in poor condition grew outside (e.g.,Pterostyrax hispidaandCynanchum caudatum). In the summer months, the maximum temperature was 8–10°C higher outside the exclosure and humidity was lower. Soil movement was 80 times more pronounced outside than inside. These results suggest that the abiotic environment became less stable for ground-dwelling insects. Carabid beetles were less abundant outside than inside, suggesting that deer grazing reduced plants and subsequently lowered habitat quality for these beetles. In contrast, carrion beetles, dung beetles, and camel crickets were more abundant outside. The increase in these insects is attributed to the availability of deer feces and carcasses and is a direct effect of deer presence.
Preoperative RAS Mutational Analysis Is of Great Value in Predicting Follicular Variant of Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma
Authors: Hwang Tae Sook , Kim Wook Youn , Han Hye Seung , Lim So Dug , Kim Wan-Seop , Yoo Young Bum , Park Kyoung Sik , Oh Seo Young , Kim Suk Kyeong , Yang Jung Hyun
Published: January 2015

Follicular variant of papillary thyroid carcinoma (FVPTC), particularly the encapsulated subtype, often causes a diagnostic dilemma. We reconfirmed the molecular profiles in a large number of FVPTCs and investigated the efficacy of the preoperative mutational analysis in indeterminate thyroid nodules. BRAF V600E/K601E and RAS mutational analysis was performed on 187 FVPTCs. Of these, 132 (70.6%) had a point mutation in one of the BRAF V600E (n=57), BRAF K601E (n=11), or RAS (n=64) genes. All mutations were mutually exclusive. The most common RAS mutations were at NRAS codon 61. FNA aspirates from 564 indeterminate nodules were prospectively tested for BRAF and RAS mutation and the surgical outcome was correlated with the mutational status. Fifty-seven and 47 cases were positive for BRAF and RAS mutation, respectively. Twenty-seven RAS-positive patients underwent surgery and all except one patient had FVPTC. The PPV and accuracy of RAS mutational analysis for predicting FVPTC were 96% and 84%, respectively. BRAF or RAS mutations were present in more than two-thirds of FVPTCs and these were mutually exclusive. BRAF mutational analysis followed by N, H, and KRAS codon 61 mutational analysis in indeterminate thyroid nodules would streamline the management of patients with malignancies, mostly FVPTC.
Simultaneous Treatment with Statins and Aspirin Reduces the Risk of Prostate Cancer Detection and Tumorigenic Properties in Prostate Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Olivan M. , Rigau M. , Colás E. , Garcia M. , Montes M. , Sequeiros T. , Regis L. , Celma A. , Planas J. , Placer J. , Reventós J. , de Torres I. , Doll A. , Morote J.
Published: January 2015

Nowadays prostate cancer is the most common solid tumor in men from industrialized countries and the second leading cause of death. At the ages when PCa is usually diagnosed, mortality related to cardiovascular morbidity is high; therefore, men at risk for PCa frequently receive chronic lipid-lowering and antiplatelet treatment. The aim of this study was to analyze how chronic treatment with statins, aspirin, and their combination influenced the risk of PCa detection. The tumorigenic properties of these treatments were evaluated by proliferation, colony formation, invasion, and migration assays using different PCa cell lines, in order to assess how these treatments act at molecular level. The results showed that a combination of statins and aspirin enhances the effect of individual treatments and seems to reduce the risk of PCa detection (OR: 0.616 (95% CI: 0.467–0.812),P<0.001). However, if treatments are maintained, aspirin (OR: 1.835 (95% CI: 1.068–3.155),P=0.028) or the combination of both drugs (OR: 3.059 (95% CI: 1.894–4.939),P<0.001) represents an increased risk of HGPCa. As observed at clinical level, these beneficial effectsin vitroare enhanced when both treatments are administered simultaneously, suggesting that chronic, concomitant treatment with statins and aspirin has a protective effect on PCa incidence.
The Treatment of Giant Periurethral Condyloma in Pregnancy Using an Ultrasonic Thermal Scalpel: A Case Report and New Single Session Treatment Option
Authors: Yavuzcan Ali , Çağlar Mete , Turan Hakan , Tekin Ali , Topuz Seren , Yavuzcan Gizem , Dilbaz Serdar , Üstün Yusuf , Aliağaoğlu Cihangir , Kumru Selahattin
Published: January 2015

Multiple large polypoid lesions with exophytic appearance occurring in anal and perineal region as a result of human papilloma virus (HPV) infection are referred to as giant condyloma acuminatum (GCA). The conventional treatment of these lesions involves the use of surgical excision, laser, electrocautery, and/or application of trichloroacetic acid. A 28-year-old primigravid patient at 22 weeks of pregnancy presented to the hospital complaining of vaginal bleeding and palpable mass in the vulva. The physical examination revealed a 60 × 35 mm broad-based, fragile, and patchy hemorrhagic polypoid lesion originating 1 cm below the clitoris and completely occupying urethral orifice and partially occluding vaginal vestibule. The patient underwent excision of GCA in the midtrimester using an ultrasonic thermal scalpel (Harmonic Scalpel) without any additional treatment and subsequently delivered a single live healthy baby. The excision of GCA occurring during pregnancy using Harmonic Scalpel can be regarded as a new successful method. Prospective, randomized, and controlled studies are warranted in order to provide clear evidence of the efficiency and safety of HS in the treatment of GCA.
Three Cases of Previous Smokers with Rheumatoid Arthritis Who Did Not Respond to Tumor Necrosis Factor Inhibitors Were Treated Successfully with an Anti-Interleukin-6 Receptor Antibody
Authors: Iwata Yasuo
Published: January 2015

We report three cases of previous smokers who did not respond to TNF inhibitors but who responded successfully to an anti-interleukin-6 receptor antibody (tocilizumab (TCZ)). Case 1 is a 63-year-old woman whose smoking index was 200 and had been complaining of polyarthralgia since 1996. She started treatment with etanercept due to high disease activity, but her DAS28-CRP was 4.2. She was therefore switched to TCZ, which dramatically improved her symptoms; her DAS28-CRP had decreased to 2.1. Case 2 is a 64-year-old man whose smoking index was 1600 and had been complaining of polyarthralgia since 2006. Because his DAS28-CRP score increased over time to 5.9, etanercept and adalimumab were added sequentially, but he showed no response over the course of two years. The patient was therefore switched to TCZ, which dramatically improved his symptoms: his DAS28-CRP decreased to 2.7. Case 3 is a 48-year-old woman whose smoking index was 560 and had been complaining of pain in both knee joints since 2001. She was treated with adalimumab due to high disease activity but showed no response over the course of 1.5 years. The patient was therefore switched to TCZ, and her DAS28-CRP decreased to 1.8. An IL-6 blockade might be suitable for treating these 3 cases of previous smokers.
Proteasome Inhibitor Bortezomib Suppresses Nuclear Factor‐Kappa B Activation and Ameliorates Eye Inflammation in Experimental Autoimmune Uveitis
Authors: Hsu Sheng-Min , Yang Chang-Hao , Shen Fang-Hsiu , Chen Shun-Hua , Lin Chia-Jhen , Shieh Chi-Chang
Published: January 2015

Bortezomib is a proteasome inhibitor used for hematologic cancer treatment. Since it can suppress NF‐κB activation, which is critical for the inflammatory process, bortezomib has been found to possess anti‐inflammatory activity. In this study, we evaluated the effect of bortezomib on experimental autoimmune uveitis (EAU) in mice and investigated the potential mechanisms related to NF‐κB inactivation. High‐dose bortezomib (0.75 mg/kg), low‐dose bortezomib (0.15 mg/kg), or phosphate buffered saline was given after EAU induction. We found that the EAU is ameliorated by high‐dose bortezomib treatment when compared with low‐dose bortezomib or PBS treatment. The DNA‐binding activity of NF‐κB was suppressed and expression of several key inflammatory mediators including TNF‐α, IL‐1α, IL‐1β, IL‐12, IL‐17, and MCP‐1 was lowered in the high‐dose bortezomib‐treated group. These results suggest that proteasome inhibition is a promising treatment strategy for autoimmune uveitis.
A Comparison of Clinical Features between Community-Associated and Healthcare-Associated Methicillin-ResistantStaphylococcus aureusKeratitis
Authors: Hsiao Ching-Hsi , Ong Sherine Jue , Chuang Chih-Chun , Ma David H. K. , Huang Yhu-Chering
Published: January 2015

Purpose. To compare the clinical features of community-associated (CA) and healthcare-associated (HA) methicillin-resistantStaphylococcus aureus(MRSA) keratitis.Methods. Patients presenting with culture-proven MRSA keratitis between January 1, 2006, and December 31, 2010, at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taiwan, were included in this study. The patients’ demographic and clinical information were reviewed retrospectively. Antibiotic susceptibility was verified using the disk diffusion method.Results. Information on 26 patients with MRSA keratitis was collected, including 12 cases of CA-MRSA and 14 cases of HA-MRSA. All MRSA isolates were susceptible to vancomycin; the only difference in drug susceptibility was that CA-MRSA isolates were more susceptible to trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole than HA-MRSAP=.034. The most common risk factor for MRSA keratitis was ocular surface disease. No significant differences were observed between the 2 groups in terms of clinical features, treatments, and visual outcomes.Conclusion. In Taiwan, CA-MRSA rivals HA-MRSA as a critical cause of MRSA keratitis. Furthermore, CA-MRSA isolates are multidrug resistant. CA-MRSA and HA-MRSA keratitis are clinically indistinguishable, although larger studies are warranted to further evaluate this association.
Simulated Microgravity: Critical Review on the Use of Random Positioning Machines for Mammalian Cell Culture
Authors: Wuest Simon L. , Richard Stéphane , Kopp Sascha , Grimm Daniela , Egli Marcel
Published: January 2015

Random Positioning Machines (RPMs) have been used since many years as a ground-based model to simulate microgravity. In this review we discuss several aspects of the RPM. Recent technological development has expanded the operative range of the RPM substantially. New possibilities of live cell imaging and partial gravity simulations, for example, are of particular interest. For obtaining valuable and reliable results from RPM experiments, the appropriate use of the RPM is of utmost importance. The simulation of microgravity requires that the RPM’s rotation is faster than the biological process under study, but not so fast that undesired side effects appear. It remains a legitimate question, however, whether the RPM can accurately and reliably simulate microgravity conditions comparable to real microgravity in space. We attempt to answer this question by mathematically analyzing the forces working on the samples while they are mounted on the operating RPM and by comparing data obtained under real microgravity in space and simulated microgravity on the RPM. In conclusion and after taking the mentioned constraints into consideration, we are convinced that simulated microgravity experiments on the RPM are a valid alternative for conducting examinations on the influence of the force of gravity in a fast and straightforward approach.
Changes in Dental Plaque Microbial Richness and Oral Behavioral Habits during Caries Development in Young Chinese Children
Authors: Hao Wenjing , Xu He , Chen Xiaochi , Zhou Qiong , Zhang Ping , Chen Feng , Qin Man
Published: January 2015

Objective: To detect changes in the microbial richness of dental plaque and oral behaviors during caries development in young Chinese children. Methods: Supragingival plaque samples and a survey of oral behaviors of 130 children aged 3 at baseline were analyzed at 6 months and 12 months. Total DNA was isolated from all samples and PCR-denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis analysis was conducted. Results: In the follow-up, 44 children had caries or cavity fillings at 6 months, a further 28 children had caries or cavity fillings at 12 months. The other 58 children remained caries-free at 12 months. According to the changes in caries status at the 12-month follow-up, all participants were divided into three groups: caries-free, caries at 6 months and caries at 12 months. The changes in oral behaviors during the 12-month follow-up were not significantly different in the three groups. The frequency of eating sweets and eating sweets before sleeping was significantly different among the three groups at baseline. At baseline, the average detectable bands of caries in the 12-month caries group were similar to those of the caries-free group; both of them were higher than that of the 6-month caries group. At 6 months, the average detectable bands of the 12-month caries group were significantly lower than that of the caries-free group although the children of the 12-month caries group were caries-free at that time. Conclusions: For young Chinese children, the high frequency of eating sweets and eating sweets before sleeping are risk factors of caries onset, and the decrease in microbial richness could occur 6 months before the onset of caries.
Triggered Liver Regeneration: From Experimental Model to Clinical Implications
Authors: Szijártó Attila , Fülöp András
Published: January 2015

Background: Major liver resection is the only therapeutic option for patients with malignant liver tumors. However, extended hepatectomy often leads to postoperative liver failure, mainly due to insufficient amounts of the remnant liver. Recently, selective portal vein occlusion (PVO) has been introduced to increase the remnant liver volume. This novel surgical technique initiated a progressive development in liver surgery, resulting in a significant increment in potential candidates for curative liver resection. Summary: The theoretical basis for this great advancement is formed by an understanding of the mechanisms of PVO-induced liver regeneration, mainly obtained from animal studies. The aim of this review is to give a comprehensive overview of the relevant animal models of PVO and to discuss the main characteristics of triggered liver regeneration, including the induced hemodynamic, morphological and functional alterations as well as the underlying molecular mechanisms, which might be of interest in both the laboratory and the clinic. Key Messages: Although basic research revealed the main characteristics of PVO-triggered liver regeneration within the last decades, several important issues regarding the regenerative process remain uncertain. To answer these open questions, additional well-designed animal experiments are needed in the future, which allow further refinement of this surgical technique.
Amino-Nogo Inhibits Optic Nerve Regeneration and Functional Recovery via the Integrin αv Signaling Pathway in Rats
Authors: Huo Yan , Yin Xiao-Lei , Ji Shu-Xing , Zou Huan , Lang Min , Zheng Zheng , Cai Xiao-Feng , Liu Wei , Chen Chun-Lin , Zhou Yuan-Guo , Yuan Rong-Di , Ye Jian
Published: January 2015

Background: Nogo-A, a major myelin-associated inhibitor, can inhibit injured optic nerve regeneration. However, whether Amino-Nogo is the most important functional domain of Nogo-A remains unknown. This study aimed to identify the role of Amino-Nogo following optic nerve injury, and the mechanism of the Amino-Nogo-integrin αv signaling pathway in vivo. Methods: Sprague-Dawley rats with optic nerve crush injury were injected with Nogo-A siRNA (Nogo-A-siRNA), the Nogo-66 functional domain antagonist peptide of Nogo-A (Nep1-40) or a recombinant rat Amino-Nogo-A protein (∆20) into the vitreous cavity to knock down Nogo-A, inhibit Nogo-66 or activate the Amino-Nogo, resparately. Retinal ganglion cell (RGC) density, axon regeneration and the pattern of NPN of visual electrophysiology (flash visual evoked potentials [F-VEP]) at different times post-injury were investigated. Results: Our study revealed a lower RGC survival rate; shorter axonal outgrowth; longer N1, P1 and N2 waves latencies; and lower N1-P1 and P1-N2 amplitudes in the Δ20 group, and Δ20 treatment significantly attenuated integrin αv expression and phosphorylated focal adhesion kinase (p-FAK) levels. In the Nep1-40 and Nogo-A siRNA groups, there were higher RGC survival rates, longer axonal outgrowth, shorter N1 and P1 wave latencies, and higher N1-P1 and P1-N2amplitudes. Nogo-A siRNA treatment significantly increased integrin αv expression and p-FAK levels. Nepl-40 treatment did not alter integrin αv expression. In addition, there was no significant change in integrin α5 in any group. Conclusion: These results suggest that the integrin signaling pathway is regulated by Amino-Nogo, which inhibits optic nerve regeneration and functional recovery, and that the integrin subunit involved might be integrin αv but not integrin α5.
The Effects of a Novel Calcium-Free Lactate Buffered Dialysis and Substitution Fluid for Regional Citrate Anticoagulation - Prospective Feasibility Study
Authors: Balik Martin , Zakharchenko Michael , Leden Pavel , Otahal Michal , Rulisek Jan , Brodska Helena , Stritesky Martin
Published: January 2015

Background: Testing metabolic effects of a novel calcium-free, magnesium, phosphate and lactate containing solution (Lactocitrate) in combination with citrate anticoagulation. Methods: Patients on CRRT (2,000 ml/h, blood flow (Qb) 100 ml/min, trisodium citrate (4% TSC)) with arterial lactate <3 mmol/l were included. At start, bicarbonate-buffered fluid was changed to Lactocitrate and the substitution of magnesium and phosphorus ceased. At 9 h the Qb was increased to 150 ml/min. At 18 h the CRRT dosage was increased to 3,000 ml/h. Results: In 22 CVVHDF patients and another 23 on CVVH the pH, aHCO3 and Na (all p > 0.05) showed no significant changes regardless of the increased dosage of 4% TSC at 9 h (p < 0.001). Mgtot and phosphorus stabilised within normal range. Arterial lactate increased to 1.9 (1.6-2.6) mmol/l at 3,000 ml/h, p < 0.001). Citrate- and lactate-related energetic gains were up to 74 (61-86) kJ/h. Conclusions: The fluid performed well within ordinary CRRT dosage and Qb up to 150 ml/min. Lactate levels mildly increased and no magnesium and phosphorus replenishments were necessary.
The Metabolic Risk in Patients Newly Diagnosed with Acromegaly Is Related to Fat Distribution and Circulating Adipokines and Improves after Treatment
Authors: Olarescu Nicoleta C. , Heck Ansgar , Godang Kristin , Ueland Thor , Bollerslev Jens
Published: January 2015

Background/Aims: Adipose tissue (AT) distribution is closely related to metabolic disease risk. Growth hormone (GH) reduces visceral and total body fat mass and induces whole-body insulin resistance. Our aim was to assess the effects of total and visceral AT (VAT) distribution and derived adipokines on systemic insulin resistance and lipid metabolism in acromegaly. Methods: Seventy adult patients with active acromegaly (43 males, age 49 ± 14 years) were evaluated before treatment, and a subset (n = 30, 20 males) was evaluated after treatment for acromegaly. Body composition and VAT, glucose metabolism parameters, lipids, C-reactive protein, and selected adipokines (vaspin, omentin, adiponectin, and leptin) were measured. Results: At baseline, VAT was positively associated with glucose metabolism parameters and with lipids. GH, but not IGF-I, was negatively associated with all AT depots (visceral, trunk, limbs, and total; 0.41 ≤ r ≤ 0.61, p < 0.001 for all) and positively associated with vaspin (r = 0.31, p = 0.013). The fat deposition after treatment was predominantly located on trunk and visceral depots. The lipid profile partially improved, with increases in HDL and apolipoprotein A-I and a decrease in lipoprotein(a). Vaspin decreased and omentin increased. Adiponectin and leptin did not change significantly. The improvement in homeostasis model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) was best predicted by the decreases in IGF-I and vaspin and the lack of an increase in trunk fat (R2 = 0.59, p = 0.001). Conclusions: (1) VAT is a metabolic risk factor for patients with active acromegaly; (2) vaspin and omentin levels are influenced by the disease activity but are not associated with VAT mass; (3) fat deposition after treatment occurs predominantly on the trunk and in visceral depots, and (4) insulin resistance decreases and the lipid profile partially improves with treatment.
The Ghosts of Development: The United States and Jordan's East Ghor Canal
Authors: Citino Nathan J.
Published: January 2015

The East Ghor Canal was a Cold War–era irrigation project financed by the U.S. government in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. By placing East Ghor in the context of previous land reform campaigns in the Jordan River valley during the Ottoman imperial and British mandatory periods, this article criticizes scholarly interpretations of Cold War modernization. Portraying U.S. overseas development policies as outgrowths of American liberalism ignores the ways in which the liberal tradition could be reconfigured when it encountered other reform legacies in Third World regions. The transnational study of postwar expertise neglects the distinct historical antecedents that prepared the ground for development programs in particular places. The article challenges the notion of American exceptionalism by reinterpreting East Ghor in a long-term regional context. Global and regional perspectives together are needed to understand the history of development, a point that underscores the need for greater collaboration between Cold War and area studies.
Revision of the world Monoctonia Starý, parasitoids of gall aphids: taxonomy, distribution, host range, and phylogeny (Hymenoptera, Braconidae: Aphidiinae)
Authors: RAKHSHANI EHSAN , STARÝ PETR , HIDALGO NICOLÁS PÉREZ , ČKRKIĆ JELISAVETA , MOGHADDAM MOSTAFA GHAFOURI , TOMANOVIĆ SNEŽANA , PETROVIĆ ANDJELJKO , TOMANOVIĆ ŽELJKO
Published: January 2015

The present paper represents a contribution to the knowledge of the taxonomy of Monoctonia Starý aphid parasitoids obtained using the barcoding region of the mitochondrial COI gene. We discuss the phylogenetic position of the genus within the subtribe Monoctonina, redescribe known species, and describe Monoctonia japonica sp. n. from Japan in the association Pemphigus matsumurai Monzen/Populus maximowiczii. A key for species identification is provided. Also, we review and discuss the host records, origin, and geographical distribution of Monoctonia species. It is hypothesized that the genus Monoctonia evolved in Paleogene forests of the temperate (and subtropical) belt, most probably in the European part of the Mediterranean region, which is also the center of origin of their host plants.
Роль термінів-непрямих номінацій у тезаурусі інформаційно-пошукової системи славістичного мовознавства
Authors: Карпіловська [Karpilovs’ka] Євгенія A. [IEvheniia A.]
Published: January 2015

The role of terms-indirect nominations in the thesaurus of information retrieval system of the Slavic linguisticsThe article examines some of the problems of modern information retrieval systems in the Slavic studies, in particular, one of the most representative – Bibliographic Database World Slavonic Linguistics, created in the Institute of Slavic Studies of PAS under the leadership of Dr. Z. E. Rudnik-Karwatova. The author focuses on the ways to improve the linguistic support of such systems and increase the efficiency of image for information searching. They are connected with the study of the keywords in the annotations of scientific publications within database, as well as in the whole of modern Slavic linguistic terminology. This study enables us not only to select a comprehensive number of terms for each linguistic discipline, school, or problem, but also to determine their variability as well as their relationship with other terms of modern-­day Slavic linguistics. The result of such study should be information retrieval thesaurus of modern Slavic linguistic terminology.Special attention in the article is paid to the role of indirect nomination in modern Slavic linguistic terminology, system-organizing function of the terms with indirect semantics, resources and modes of their creating in different Slavonic languages, the correlation between indirect nomination and figurative one as well as the terms which indicate the place of object in some classifications (see Ukrainian середній рід) or gradual opposition (see Polish semileksem).
Hornjoserbska rěčespytna terminologija
Authors: Pohončowa Anja
Published: January 2015

Upper Sorbian linguistic terminologyThis article deals with the development and use of linguistic terminology of a minority language in the context of bilingualism. Under this aspect, an overview is provided over the development and use of Upper Sorbian linguistic terminology past and present. Only recently, a Sorbian-­language passage on the orthography of this tongue at the end of the 17th century was discovered. This establishes the oldest linguistic text in Upper Sorbian so far identified. As far as is known, the first two linguistic termini used were introduced by Z. Běrlink in his treaty of the Upper Sorbian orthography (1689), that is samohłósny ‘vowels’ and sobuhłósny ‘consonants’. Until the 19th century, grammars of Upper Sorbian were written in German and Latin, which means that the use of linguistic termini in this tongue was mostly restricted to their designating function and were in most cases equivalents of the lexical itmes ‘vowel’ and ‘consonant’.This article also deals with varying current questions of the existing linguistic terminology, for example, its stability, its currency and its applicability. In this context, the contribution to the information­question system of the Slavic linguistic internet forum iSybislaw and its developing dictionary of Slavic linguistic keywords is also described.
Investigation of Climatological Onset and Withdrawal of the Rainy Season in Panama Based on a Daily Gridded Precipitation Dataset with a High Horizontal Resolution
Authors: Nakaegawa Tosiyuki , Arakawa Osamu , Kamiguchi Kenji
Published: January 2015

The present study investigated the onset and withdrawal dates of the rainy season in Panama by using newly developed, gridded, daily precipitation datasets with a high horizontal resolution of 0.05° based on ground precipitation observations. The onset and withdrawal dates showed very complicated geographical features, although the country of Panama is oriented parallel to latitude lines, and the geographical patterns of the onset and withdrawal dates could simply reflect the latitudinal migration of the intertropical convergence zone, as seen in other regions and countries. An absolute threshold value of 3 mm day−1 (pentad mean precipitation) was used to determine the onset and withdrawal dates. The onset and withdrawal dates obtained from the gridded daily precipitation dataset clearly depicted the migration of the rainy season. The rainy season starts suddenly in pentad 21 (11–15 April) in most of eastern Panama and in pentad 22 (16–20 April) in most of western Panama. The termination of the rainy season begins in Los Santos Province during pentad 67 (27 November–1 December) and expands to both the eastern and western surrounding areas. There is no dry season in the western part of the Caribbean coastal zone. Water vapor fluxes and topography suggest dynamical causes, such as a topographically induced upward mass flux accompanied by high humidity, for the complicated geographical features of the onset and withdrawal dates. An assessment was made of uncertainties in the timing of the onset and withdrawal associated with the definition of these terms.
A Hybrid Particle–Ensemble Kalman Filter for Lagrangian Data Assimilation
Authors: Slivinski Laura , Spiller Elaine , Apte Amit , Sandstede Björn
Published: January 2015

Lagrangian measurements from passive ocean instruments provide a useful source of data for estimating and forecasting the ocean’s state (velocity field, salinity field, etc.). However, trajectories from these instruments are often highly nonlinear, leading to difficulties with widely used data assimilation algorithms such as the ensemble Kalman filter (EnKF). Additionally, the velocity field is often modeled as a high-dimensional variable, which precludes the use of more accurate methods such as the particle filter (PF). Here, a hybrid particle–ensemble Kalman filter is developed that applies the EnKF update to the potentially high-dimensional velocity variables, and the PF update to the relatively low-dimensional, highly nonlinear drifter position variable. This algorithm is tested with twin experiments on the linear shallow water equations. In experiments with infrequent observations, the hybrid filter consistently outperformed the EnKF, both by better capturing the Bayesian posterior and by better tracking the truth.
Packing for Perth: The Growth of a Southern African Diaspora
Authors: Louw Eric , Mersham Gary
Published: January 2015

Southern African decolonization, the civil war and post-apartheid turmoil are creating a Southern African diaspora across the Anglo world. Australia has become a popular destination within this diaspora that South Africans now refer to emigration in general as “packing for Perth.” Thus far, little work has been done on this migratory phenomenon. This article seeks to develop an overview of the birth and developments of this diaspora, with a focus on the growth of the South African Australian community. As an overview, the article provides insights on how this emergent diaspora relates to earlier migrations, the factors behind post-apartheid emigration, the patterns and characteristics of post-apartheid migration, and the significance of Australia as a destination for South African migrants.