bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multifunctional Iron Bound Lactoferrin and Nanomedicinal Approaches to Enhance Its Bioactive Functions
Authors: Kanwar Jagat , Roy Kislay , Patel Yogesh , Zhou Shu-Feng , Singh Manju , Singh Deependra , Nasir Muhammad , Sehgal Rakesh , Sehgal Alka , Singh Ram , Garg Sanjay , Kanwar Rupinder
Published: May 2015

Lactoferrin (Lf), an iron-binding protein from the transferrin family has been reported to have numerous functions. Even though Lf was first isolated from milk, it is also found in most exocrine secretions and in the secondary granules of neutrophils. Antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activity reports on lactoferrin identified its significance in host defense against infection and extreme inflammation. Anticarcinogenic reports on lactoferrin make this protein even more valuable. This review is focused on the structural configuration of iron-containing and iron-free forms of lactoferrin obtained from different sources such as goat, camel and bovine. Apart for emphasizing on the specific beneficial properties of lactoferrin from each of these sources, the general antimicrobial, immunomodulatory and anticancer activities of lactoferrin are discussed here. Implementation of nanomedicinial strategies that enhance the bioactive function of lactoferrin are also discussed, along with information on lactoferrin in clinical trials.
Pyrosequencing Analysis Reveals Changes in Intestinal Microbiota of Healthy Adults Who Received a Daily Dose of Immunomodulatory Probiotic Strains
Authors: Plaza-Díaz Julio , Fernández-Caballero Jose , Chueca Natalia , García Federico , Gómez-Llorente Carolina , Sáez-Lara María , Fontana Luis , Gil Ángel
Published: May 2015

The colon microbiota plays a crucial role in human gastrointestinal health. Current attempts to manipulate the colon microbiota composition are aimed at finding remedies for various diseases. We have recently described the immunomodulatory effects of three probiotic strains (Lactobacillus rhamnosus CNCM I-4036, Lactobacillus paracasei CNCM I-4034, and Bifidobacterium breve CNCM I-4035). The goal of the present study was to analyze the compositions of the fecal microbiota of healthy adults who received one of these strains using high-throughput 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing. Bacteroides was the most abundant genus in the groups that received L. rhamnosus CNCM I-4036 or L. paracasei CNCM I-4034. The Shannon indices were significantly increased in these two groups. Our results also revealed a significant increase in the Lactobacillus genus after the intervention with L. rhamnosus CNCM I-4036. The initially different colon microbiota became homogeneous in the subjects who received L. rhamnosus CNCM I-4036. While some orders that were initially present disappeared after the administration of L. rhamnosus CNCM I-4036, other orders, such as Sphingobacteriales, Nitrospirales, Desulfobacterales, Thiotrichales, and Synergistetes, were detected after the intervention. In summary, our results show that the intake of these three bacterial strains induced changes in the colon microbiota.
Functions of Nitric Oxide (NO) in Roots during Development and under Adverse Stress Conditions
Authors: Corpas Francisco , Barroso Juan
Published: May 2015

The free radical molecule, nitric oxide (NO), is present in the principal organs of plants, where it plays an important role in a wide range of physiological functions. Root growth and development are highly regulated by both internal and external factors such as nutrient availability, hormones, pattern formation, cell polarity and cell cycle control. The presence of NO in roots has opened up new areas of research on the role of NO, including root architecture, nutrient acquisition, microorganism interactions and the response mechanisms to adverse environmental conditions, among others. Additionally, the exogenous application of NO throughout the roots has the potential to counteract specific damages caused by certain stresses. This review aims to provide an up-to-date perspective on NO functions in the roots of higher plants.
Microfabrication and Integration of a Sol-Gel PZT Folded Spring Energy Harvester
Authors: Lueke Jonathan , Badr Ahmed , Lou Edmond , Moussa Walied
Published: May 2015

This paper presents the methodology and challenges experienced in the microfabrication, packaging, and integration of a fixed-fixed folded spring piezoelectric energy harvester. A variety of challenges were overcome in the fabrication of the energy harvesters, such as the diagnosis and rectification of sol-gel PZT film quality and adhesion issues. A packaging and integration methodology was developed to allow for the characterizing the harvesters under a base vibration. The conditioning circuitry developed allowed for a complete energy harvesting system, consisting a harvester, a voltage doubler, a voltage regulator and a NiMH battery. A feasibility study was undertaken with the designed conditioning circuitry to determine the effect of the input parameters on the overall performance of the circuit. It was found that the maximum efficiency does not correlate to the maximum charging current supplied to the battery. The efficiency and charging current must be balanced to achieve a high output and a reasonable output current. The development of the complete energy harvesting system allows for the direct integration of the energy harvesting technology into existing power management schemes for wireless sensing.
Cyberbullying and Primary-School Aged Children: The Psychological Literature and the Challenge for Sociology
Authors: Ey Lesley-Anne , Taddeo Carmel , Spears Barbara
Published: May 2015

Cyberbullying is an international issue for schools, young people and their families. Whilst many research domains have explored this phenomenon, and bullying more generally, the majority of reported studies appear in the psychological and educational literatures, where bullying, and more recently, cyberbullying has been examined primarily at the individual level: amongst adolescents and young people, with a focus on the definition, its prevalence, behaviours, and impact. There also is growing evidence that younger children are increasingly accessing technology and engaging with social media, yet there is limited research dedicated to this younger age group. The purpose of this paper is to report on a systematic literature review from the psychological and educational research domains related to this younger age group, to inform future research across the disciplines. Younger children require different methods of engagement. This review highlights the methodological challenges associated with this age group present in the psychological literature, and argues for a greater use of sociological, child-centred approaches to data collection. This review examined studies published in English, between 2009 and 2014, and conducted with children aged 5–12 years, about their experiences with cyberbullying. Searches were conducted on seven key databases using keywords associated with cyberbullying and age of children. A Google Scholar search also examined published and unpublished reports. A total of 966 articles and reports were retrieved. A random peer review process was employed to establish inter-rater reliability and veracity of the review. Findings revealed 38 studies reported specifically on children aged 5–12 years. The dominant focus of these articles was on prevalence of cyberbullying, established through survey methodology. Few studies noted impacts, understanding and behaviours or engaged children’s independent voice. This review highlights current gaps in our knowledge about younger children’s experiences with this form of bullying, and the importance of employing cross-disciplinary and developmentally appropriate methodologies to inform future research.
Risks of Coastal Storm Surge and the Effect of Sea Level Rise in the Red River Delta, Vietnam
Authors: Neumann James , Emanuel Kerry , Ravela Sai , Ludwig Lindsay , Verly Caroleen
Published: May 2015

This paper considers the impact of sea level rise and storm surge on the Red River delta region of Vietnam. Permanently inundated lands and temporary flood zones are analyzed by combining sea level rise scenarios for 2050 with simulated storm surge levels for the 100-year event. Our analysis finds that sea level rise through 2050 could increase the effective frequency of the current 100-year storm surge, which is associated with a storm surge of roughly five meters, to once every 49 years. Approximately 10% of the Hanoi region’s GDP is vulnerable to permanent inundation due to sea level rise, and more than 40% is vulnerable to periodic storm surge damage consistent with the current 100-year storm. We conclude that coastal adaptation measures, such as a planned retreat from the sea, and construction of a more substantial seawall and dike system, are needed to respond to these threats.
Conservation Laws of Discrete Evolution Equations by Symmetries and Adjoint Symmetries
Authors: Ma Wen-Xiu
Published: May 2015

A direct approach is proposed for constructing conservation laws of discrete evolution equations, regardless of the existence of a Lagrangian. The approach utilizes pairs of symmetries and adjoint symmetries, in which adjoint symmetries make up for the disadvantage of non-Lagrangian structures in presenting a correspondence between symmetries and conservation laws. Applications are made for the construction of conservation laws of the Volterra lattice equation.
Insights into Human Astrocyte Response to H5N1 Infection by Microarray Analysis
Authors: Lin Xian , Wang Ruifang , Zhang Jun , Sun Xin , Zou Zhong , Wang Shengyu , Jin Meilin
Published: May 2015

Influenza virus infects not only the respiratory system but also the central nervous system (CNS), leading to influenza-associated encephalopathy and encephalitis. Astrocytes are essential for brain homeostasis and neuronal function. These cells can also be infected by influenza virus. However, genome-wide changes in response to influenza viral infection in astrocytes have not been defined. In this study, we performed gene profiling of human astrocytes in response to H5N1. Innate immune and pro-inflammatory responses were strongly activated at 24 h post-infection (hpi). Antiviral genes, as well as several cytokines and chemokines, including CXCL9, CXCL10, and CXCL11, were robustly induced. Phosphorylation of p65 and p38 can be activated by viral infection, suggesting their potential critical roles in H5N1-induced pro-inflammatory response. Moreover, H5N1 infection significantly upregulated the gene expressions related to the neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction pathway at 24 hpi, such as MC2R, CHRNG, P2RY13, GABRA1, and HRH2, which participant in synaptic transmission and may take part in CNS disorders induced by H5N1 infection. Targeting key components of innate immune response and the neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction pathway may provide a strategy to control H5N1-induced encephalopathy and encephalitis. This research can contribute to the understanding of H5N1 pathogenesis in astrocytes.
Stochastic Flocculation Model for Cohesive Sediment Suspended in Water
Authors: Shin Hyun , Son Minwoo , Lee Guan-hong
Published: May 2015

Existing flocculation models for cohesive sediments are classified into two groups: population balance equation models (PBE) and floc growth models. An FGM ensures mass conservation in a closed system. However, an FGM determines only the average size of flocs, whereas a PBE has the capability to calculate a size distribution of flocs. A new stochastic approach to model the flocculation process is theoretically developed and incorporated into a deterministic FGM in this study in order to calculate a size distribution of flocs as well as the average size. A log-normal distribution is used to generate random numbers based on previous laboratory experiments. The new stochastic flocculation model is tested with three laboratory experiment results. It was found and validated with measured data that the new stochastic flocculation model has the capability to replicate a size distribution of flocs reasonably well under different sediment and carrier flow conditions. Three more distributions (normal; Pearson type 3; and generalized extreme value distributions) were also tested. From the comparison with results of different distribution functions, it is shown that a stochastic FGM using a log-normal distribution has a comparative advantage in terms of simplicity and accuracy.
Structure et fonctionnement du qanat de Sargon (Shiraz-lran) (Structure and hydrological behavior of the Sargon qanat (Shiraz-lran))
Authors: Dumas Dominique , Mietton Michel
Published: May 2015

Résumé. - Cet article présente le qanat de Sargon alimentant en eau potable le village de Kyanabad, situé à environ 10 km au SW de Shiraz. L'étude a été menée à une échelle très locale et sous trois angles différents. Ainsi sont présentées tour à tour les modalités de la construction, les caractéristiques hydrologiques du qanat de Sargon et l'évolution depuis quarante ans de ces systèmes autour du village de Kyanabad. Des mesures morphométriques précises du qanat et des observations environnementales permettent de dégager des hypothèses sur la construction de ces systèmes traditionnels situés dans la zone plissée du Zagros. La description des caractéristiques hydrologiques du qanat de Sargon montre l'efficacité de ces aménagements. Le climat semi-aride de la région reste la cause première de la création de ces qanat ainsi que celle de leur pérennité. Cependant, la comparaison à trois dates différentes de ces aménagements autour du village de Kyanabad illustre bien leur disparition brutale au cours de ces dernières décennies.
Oasis de Haute-Egypte et steppe de Syrtique pendant l'Antiquité : environnement et modes d'occupation (Oasis of western desert (Egypt) and steppe of Syrtia (Libya) during the Antiquity : environment and organization)
Authors: Bousquet Bernard
Published: May 2015

Abstract. - In the oasis of Western Desert (Egypt) and in the steppe of Libya, the irrigation works made during the Antiquity compose a technical system that can explain the local transformation of the society and of the environment. The irrigation system is shown as an answer to a very hard environment but, also, as a danger for the fields.
Télécommunications et réseaux métropolitains (Telecommunications and metropolitan networks)
Authors: Dezert Bernard
Published: May 2015

Résumé. - Les télécommunications offrent des possibilités démultipliées à l'échelle planétaire des réseaux de relation. Les autoroutes de l'information favorisent de nouvelles logistiques des échanges internationaux et des mouvements de capitaux. Les entreprises peuvent multiplier leurs antennes régionales et se fractionner en petites unités fonctionnelles performantes. Les processus de fabrication peuvent être décidés et commandés à grande distance. Le rôle du coût de la distance est réduit. L'impact géographique est considérable. Les réseaux d'information issus des métropoles sont privilégiés. Les marchés boursiers sont en relation en temps réel. Les effets sur l'organisation du travail (télétravail) et des transports sont importants. De nouvelles relations financières entre places centrales et périphéries et avec les paradis fiscaux (Iles, principautés) sont devenues très importantes : la communication mondialisée est née.
Internet et ses fenêtres ouvertes sur la gestion de l'environnement (Internet and environment management)
Authors: Bardinet Claude
Published: May 2015

Abstract. - In environmental research, the explanation and prediction depend on the accessibility and quality of data and methodology. One important question is : at which conditions is it possible to transfer the advanced research, from high-level laboratories to the centers for applied research which are responsible of the watch for Global environment. It is crucial to assure access to these data sets by scientific users in all parts of the world, particularly in using the international computer networks World Wide Web. One of the objectives of this paper consists in analyzing the performance of access tools like "Alta Vista " for identifying the list of URL where pertinent information systems are located in the field of the environment.
La Baltique et l'ouverture à l'Ouest de la Russie (The Baltic sea and russian opening towards west)
Authors: Marchand Pascal
Published: May 2015

Abstract. - The new Russia, as the antiqual Moscovie, is reduced to a small baltical "window". Post-soviet baltical interests are to replace in a new international context.
L'Europe centrale et les marchés de travail en mouvement : le cas de l'Autriche (Central Europe and moving labour markets : the case of Austria)
Authors: Paal Michaela
Published: May 2015

Résumé. - La transition de la planification étatique vers l'économie de marché a modifié fondamentalement les structures des pays ex-collectivistes, depuis les marchés immobiliers et résidentiels jusqu'aux marchés de travail. Mais l'Autriche subit elle aussi les contrecoups, tant sur les marchés de l'emploi qu'en ce qui concerne son positionnement dans l'espace économique de l'Union européenne et la redéfinition de son statut de pays d'accueil libéral de réfugiés. A cause de ces migrations, l'Autriche et notamment le «creuset» de Vienne se trouvent placés face à une nouvelle situation difficile.
Thiazole formation through a modified Gewald reaction
Authors: Mallia Carl J , Englert Lukas , Walter Gary C , Baxendale Ian R
Published: May 2015

The synthesis of thiazoles and thiophenes starting from nitriles, via a modified Gewald reaction has been studied for a number of different substrates. 1,4-Dithiane-2,5-diol was used as the aldehyde precursor to give either 2-substituted thiazoles or 2-substituted aminothiophenes depending on the substitution of the α-carbon to the cyano group.
Can Ultrasound Biomicroscopy Be Used to Predict Accommodation Accurately?
Authors: Ramasubramanian Viswanathan , Glasser Adrian
Published: May 2015

PURPOSE:

Clinical accommodation testing involves measuring either accommodative optical changes or accommodative biometric changes. Quantifying both optical and biometric changes during accommodation might be helpful in the design and evaluation of accommodation restoration concepts. This study aims to establish the accuracy of ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM) in predicting the accommodative optical response (AOR) from biometric changes.

METHODS:

Static AOR from 0 to 6 diopters (D) stimuli in 1-D steps were measured with infrared photorefraction and a Grand Seiko autorefractor (WR-5100 K; Shigiya Machinery Works Ltd., Hiroshima, Japan) in 26 human subjects aged 21 to 36 years. Objective measurements of accommodative biometric changes to the same stimulus demands were measured from UBM (Vu-MAX; Sonomed Escalon, Lake Success, NY) images in the same group of subjects. AOR was predicted from biometry using linear regressions, 95% confidence intervals, and 95% prediction intervals.

RESULTS:

Bland–Altman analysis showed 0.52 D greater AOR with photorefraction than with the Grand Seiko autorefractor. Per-diopter changes in accommodative biometry were: anterior chamber depth (ACD): −0.055 mm/D, lens thickness (LT): +0.076 mm/D, anterior lens radii of curvature (ALRC): −0.854 mm/D, posterior lens radii of curvature (PLRC): −0.222 mm/D, and anterior segment length (ASL): +0.030 mm/D. The standard deviation of AOR predicted from linear regressions for various biometry parameters were: ACD: 0.24 D, LT: 0.30 D, ALRC: 0.24 D, PLRC: 0.43 D, ASL: 0.50 D.

CONCLUSIONS:

UBM measured parameters can, on average, predict AOR with a standard deviation of 0.50 D or less using linear regression. UBM is a useful and accurate objective technique for measuring accommodation in young phakic eyes.

[
J Refract Surg.
2015;31(4):266–273.]
Boosting Efficiency Through the Use Of IT?
Authors: Ellebrecht Nils , Kaufmann Stefan
Published: May 2015

Processes of technological innovation are often rationalised with the promise of improved efficiency. Using the example of the development and introduction of an information technology system for managing mass casualty incidents, this article shows that this hope may indeed be substantiated. Yet, an assessment of the societal impacts might show that these improvements often happen in unexpected places or ways. They invariably emerge in relation to organisational structures, cultural influences, and interests. In addition, when focusing only on the advantages of novel technologies, the problems they typically bring with them are ignored. The article challenges three improvements in efficiency usually associated with IT (time savings, improved decision making capacity, and detailed synopsis) with empirical investigations and field observations that were made during the four-year development and introduction phase. In conclusion, evaluations of the technology were neither completely positive nor negative but ambivalent: emphasis on the positive or negative effects depended on the perspectives of the different potential users.
Digital Restrictions at Work
Authors: Ford Jessica L. , Stephens Keri K. , Ford Jacob S.
Published: May 2015

As mobile devices become more pervasive, there is an assumption that mobile use is ubiquitous within organizations. However, some organizations enforce policies that restrict mobile use at work, often ignoring the ethical safety implications of these decisions. This study explores how a mobile device ban at work affects how employees receive urgent information. Based on previous research on the digital divide and organizational justice, this study examines two different types of organizations with similar policies restricting mobile use at work. Here the authors address how organizations operating under these policies play a unique gatekeeping role in managing safety and emergency information. Three major themes emerged from the data: lost information, forgotten workers, and worker dispersion. These themes bring attention to the implications of digital restrictions, which prevent certain employees from receiving crucial information in an emergency. The findings from this research encourage more inclusive policies around mobile use and prompt future research on digital inequality in the workplace.
Historical trends in Canadian forest entomology
Authors: Quiring Dan , Quiring Vanessa , Quiring Anne-Marie , Edwards Sara
Published: May 2015

Canada has a distinguished history of research in forest entomology. The number of peer-reviewed publications emanating from studies in forest entomology in Canada greatly increased following the Second World War. Much of the outstanding historical success in Canadian forest entomological research is attributable to the work of entomologists employed by the Canadian Forest Service, who authored the majority of studies until the mid 1970s and usually published them in The Canadian Entomologist. Since that time the majority of studies have been published by Canadian universities in a broad range of journals. Most early research in forest entomology in Canada was carried out by men, but since that time the proportion of forest entomological research carried out by women has increased significantly. The majority of research in central and eastern Canada focussed on defoliators and their natural enemies and host plants whereas the majority of research in western Canada examined bark beetles (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Scolytinae) and their natural enemies and host plants. Although publications on defoliators and their natural enemies have occurred continuously throughout the historical development of forest entomology in Canada, the numbers of publications on wood borers (Coleoptera: Buprestidae, Cerambycidae) and bark beetles and their natural enemies have never been higher than they are presently.
Communities: Development of church-based counselling teams
Authors: Potgieter Stella D.
Published: May 2015

Pastoral care is a biblical mandate to the Church to be involved in the lives of God’s people. A key metaphor used by Jesus to describe his pastoral role was that of a shepherd. Thus, to be God’s shepherds and instruments of healing and transformation in God’s world is an imperative to all people, clergy and laity alike. The brokenness in South African society is strikingly apparent, exacerbated by the effects of exceptionally high criminal behaviour as statistics show. The demand for pastoral care and assistance with various personal problems is on the increase, with many non-church goers turning to churches for help. Also apparent in South Africa is the acute shortage of trained individuals to offer care and counselling. The task of offering care is not the sole responsibility of clergy, as all are called to be shepherds and caregivers. The importance and urgency in training church-based counselling teams cannot be overstated. More so in that we are becoming increasingly aware that not only are individuals in need of care, but whole communities are struggling with trauma and life’s challenges, and often do not know whom to turn to. In pursuance of the realisation that pastoral care is the function and duty of all Christians, this article will delineate in particular an explanation of lay counselling, reasons for its importance including biblical foundations, where and how ordinary South Africans can get involved, and will propose certain models and approaches for getting started. These models will not be discussed in depth, but present an opportunity for the next. Teams for these models consist of professional counsellors, but ought not to be restricted to a select few, as all are called to this special ministry and can be trained for the task, which will include on-going supervision and mentoring. The overall purpose of this article is to highlight the urgency of training lay counsellors and some recommendations will be made how to apply it, in an attempt to be faithful to the biblical mandate and examples set by Jesus Christ.
Regularity of free boundary arising from optimal exercise of perpetual executive stock options
Authors: Qin Cong , Chen Xinfu , Lai Xin , Yu Wanghui
Published: May 2015

In this paper we convert a variational inequality modeling perpetual executive stock options to a degenerate Stefan type free boundary problem where the free boundary is related to the boundary of optimal exercise and non-exercise regions. We establish the regularity of the free boundary by solving directly the resulting free boundary problem.
On the regularity of critical and minimal sets of a free interface problem
Authors: Fusco Nicola , Julin Vesa
Published: May 2015

We study a free interface problem of finding the optimal energy configuration for mixtures of two conducting materials with an additional perimeter penalization of the interface. We employ the regularity theory of linear elliptic equations to study the possible opening angles of Taylor cones and to give a different proof of a partial regularity result by Fan Hua Lin [15].
Cost Analysis of Failed Shoulder Stabilization
Authors: Godin Jonathan A , Skendzel Jack G , Sekiya Jon K
Published: May 2015

Background

Shoulder instability is a common problem, especially in the young, active population. Revision stabilization has a high rate of recurrent instability, low rates of return to play, and low clinical outcome scores. The challenge for surgeons is identifying the best surgery for each patient. To our knowledge, no studies have been published examining the cost of failed shoulder stabilization.

Hypothesis

The high cost of index and revision stabilization procedures in a cohort of patients with recurrent shoulder instability can be reduced through judicious preoperative planning and the use of more aggressive surgical techniques during the index operation.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the medical records and billing information of 18 consecutive patients treated at our institution for failed shoulder instability repairs during a 36-month period. Using the billing records for each case, a cost analysis was conducted from a societal perspective.

Results

The actual costs of index stabilization and revision stabilization procedures for our cohort of 18 patients amounted to $1,447,690. The costs of revision surgeries conducted for this cohort by a single surgeon at our institution amounted to $673,248. The hypothetical costs of primary arthroscopic stabilization and open stabilization for a cohort of 18 patients leading to permanent repair was $395,415 and $585,639 respectively. The incremental difference between actual costs and hypothetical costs of primary osteoarticular (OA) allograft stabilization for patients with bony defects is $278,394. For patients with significant bone defects, an open repair with failure rate of 44.9%, or an arthroscopic repair with failure rate of 62.8%, is cost neutral to a primary open repair with OA allograft. In addition, an open repair with failure rate of 13.0%, or an arthroscopic repair with failure rate of 41.3%, is cost neutral to a primary definitive repair.

Conclusion

Failed shoulder stabilization bears high costs to society, even without considering the psychological costs to patients. We must identify and refine diagnostic and prognostic factors to better determine the appropriate treatment modality for patients with primary shoulder instability.

Godin JA, Skendzel JG, Sekiya JK. Cost Analysis of Failed Shoulder Stabilization. The Duke Orthop J 2015;5(1):14-19.
Management of Terrible Triad Injuries of the Elbow
Authors: Vovos Tyler , Blizzard Daniel J , Garrigues Grant
Published: May 2015

The term ‘Terrible Triad’ was initially coined by Hotchkiss et al to describe fracture-dislocations of the elbow involving three specific injuries: a posterolateral dislocation, coronoid fracture and radial head fracture.1 Fracture-dislocations of this type are notoriously unstable secondary to loss of the anterior buttress support from the coronoid, valgus support from the radial head, and the posterolateral stabilization of the lateral ulnar collateral ligament (LUCL).2,3 Furthermore, these injury patterns are particularly difficult to treat and have resulted in poor functional outcomes including the need for multiple reoperations.4-6

Herein, the pathoanatomy, classification, diagnosis and management of these challenging injuries will be discussed.

Vovos T, Blizzard DJ, Garrigues G. Management of Terrible Triad Injuries of the Elbow. The Duke Orthop J 2015;5(1): 2834.
Sources of long-lived atmospheric VOCs at the rural boreal forest site, SMEAR II
Authors: Patokoski J. , Ruuskanen T. M. , Kajos M. K. , Taipale R. , Rantala P. , Aalto J. , Ryyppö T. , Nieminen T. , Hakola H. , Rinne J.
Published: May 2015

Abstract. In this study a long-term volatile organic compounds (VOCs) data set, measured at the SMEAR II (Station for measuring Ecosystem–Atmosphere Relations) boreal forest site at Hyytiälä, Finland during the years 2006–2011, was investigated. VOC mixing ratios were measured using proton transfer reaction mass spectrometry. Four-day backward trajectories and the Unmix 6.0 receptor model were used for source area and source composition analysis. Two major forest fire events, one in Eastern Europe and one in Russia, took place during the measurement period. The effect of these fires was clearly visible in the trajectory analysis, lending confidence to the method employed with this data set. Elevated volume mixing ratios (VMRs) of non-biogenic VOCs, e.g. acetonitrile and aromatic VOCs, related to forest fires were observed. Ten major source areas for long-lived VOCs (methanol, acetonitrile, acetaldehyde, acetone, benzene and toluene) were identified at the SMEAR II site. The main source areas for all the targeted VOCs were Western Russia, Northern Poland, Kaliningrad and Baltic countries. Industrial areas in Northern Continental Europe were also found to be source areas for certain VOCs. Both trajectory and receptor analysis showed that air masses from Northern Fennoscandia were less polluted with both the VOCs studied and with other trace gases (CO, SO2 and NOx) than areas of Eastern and Western Continental Europe, Western Russia and Southern Fennoscandia.
Systematic Evaluation of Women With Suspected Endometriosis Using a 5‐Domain Sonographically Based Approach
Authors: Menakaya Uche , Reid Shannon , Infante Fernando , Condous George
Published: May 2015

In recent years, knowledge has evolved regarding the role of transvaginal sonography in the assessment of the pouch of Douglas status and the preoperative prediction of extraovarian endometriosis in specific locations. Despite these advances in transvaginal sonography, the challenge of developing a comprehensive, cost‐effective, and reproducible preoperative classification system for endometriosis remains. Critical to this classification system should be a sonographically based evaluation protocol that is systematic, evidence based, and reproducible with clearly defined end points. To date, no structured evaluation protocol exists for the assessment of the pelvis in women with suspected endometriosis. In this article, we propose a domain‐based evaluation protocol for the assessment of women with suspected endometriosis using transvaginal sonography.
Clear Cell “Sugar” Tumor of the Lung: Benign or Malignant?
Authors: Olivencia-Yurvati Albert H. , Rodriguez Abraham Elias
Published: May 2015

Clear cell “sugar” tumors of the lung are rare pulmonary tumors. This case study illustrates a patient who was found to have a persistent nodule in the left-upper lobe of the lung. Positron emission tomographic scanning showed mild-moderate 18-fluorodeoxyglucose uptake. Based on these findings, a video-assisted resection of the tumor was undertaken. The mass was identified histologically, as a clear cell “sugar” tumor of the lung. This case report discusses the benign versus malignant nature of this rare tumor.
Success of Minimally Invasive Transumbilical Single-Incision Laparoscopic Surgery (T-SILS) Plus Double-Balloon Endoscopy (DBE) for Pediatric Intestinal Angiodysplasia: A Case Report
Authors: Mori Koichiro , Koike Yuhki , Inoue Mikihiro , Ohtake Kohei , Tanaka Koji , Uchida Keichi , Mohri Yasuhiko , Kusunoki Masato
Published: May 2015

We describe here a child with angiodysplasia of the small intestine, diagnosed by double-balloon endoscopy (DBE), who was treated with transumbilical single-incision laparoscopic surgery (T-SILS). A 9-year-old boy presented to another hospital with intermittent fresh melena of a duration of 5 months and 4 days. Anoscopy and gastric mucosal membrane scintigraphy were unsuccessful diagnostically, and he was referred to our hospital for further examination and treatment. Under general anesthesia, we performed DBE by an anal route, with the ileum assessed for a distance of about 150 cm from the ileocecal valve. Although no bleeding lesion was found in the colon, a flat elevated venous lake approximately 20 mm in size was observed 20 cm from the ileocecal valve, suggesting angiodysplasia of the small intestine. A tattoo was made under DBE, and wedge resection by T-SILS was performed 1 month later under general anesthesia. The excised specimen appeared as a flat, elevated venous lake approximately 20 mm in size. Histopathologic analysis revealed several dilated and distorted veins within the submucosa of the small intestine. The patient was diagnosed with angiodysplasia of the small intestine. His postoperative course was uneventful, and he remained free of recurrent gastrointestinal bleeding 18 months after the operation. This is the first case report showing the diagnosis, localization, and tattooing of an obscure gastrointestinal bleeding lesion of the small intestine by preoperative DBE and removal of the lesion by subsequent T-SILS in children.
Recurrence-Free Survival of a Hepatocellular Carcinoma Patient With Tumor Thrombosis of the Inferior Vena Cava After Treatment With Sorafenib and Hepatic Resection
Authors: Nakamura Kenichi , Beppu Toru , Hayashi Hiromitsu , Okabe Hirohisa , Imai Kastunori , Nitta Hidetoshi , Chikamoto Akira , Ishiko Takatoshi , Sasaki Masato , Baba Hideo
Published: May 2015

Sorafenib (Nexabar, Bayer, Berlin, Germany), one of multikinase inhibitors, can infrequently downstage advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). There are some reports that sorafenib in combination with other modalities, such as transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) or radiation therapy, could represent a bridge to surgery. We have observed a progressive HCC case with hepatic vein tumor thrombosis proceeding to the inferior vena cava (IVC-HVTT) convert to a state of feasible curative resection after a multidisciplinary treatment which included sorafenib. The patient underwent a successful resection in consequence of this therapy. A 45-year-old male with Hepatitis B Virus-associated chronic hepatitis was diagnosed as HCC with IVC-HVTT. To obtain oncological curative resection, we performed TACE, radiation therapy followed by administration of sorafenib (800 mg per day, total 72 g). The tumor including IVC-HVTT remarkably shrank, therefore, an extended posterior sectionectomy and total removal of the IVC-HVTT was successfully performed. The operation time was 736 minutes and the amount of intraoperative hemorrhage was 805 mL. No postoperative complication occurred. Adjuvant therapy with sorafenib was started four weeks after the operation and continued for 6 months (800 mg per day, total 144 g). The patient is alive without recurrence for about 4 years from the initial therapy. Multidisciplinary therapy including sorafenib, TACE, radiation, and hepatic resection may be an effective strategy to treat HCC patients with IVC-HVTT.
Treatment of Tracheal Mucoepidermoid Carcinoma by Argon Plasma Coagulation During Pregnancy
Authors: Kesrouani Assaad , Dabar Georges , Rahal Samir , Ghorra Claude
Published: May 2015

Mucoepidermoid carcinoma of the tracheobronchial tree is a rare airway tumor (<1% of all lung tumors). In adults, the majority of primary tracheal tumors are malignant. Management during pregnancy is complex and requires weighing maternal and fetal prognosis. Reported cases describe surgical resection following cesarean section. We report the first case to be treated by Argon-Plasma Coagulation (APC) in pregnancy. A 35-year-old Caucasian woman G1P0, at 27 weeks of gestation was admitted to the emergency department because of hemoptysis and severe dyspnea. Bronchoscopy and biopsies diagnosed primary tracheal mucoepidermoid carcinoma. Following an episode of tracheal bleeding, she was intubated. After thorough explanations to the family and obtaining informed consent, therapeutic bronchoscopy, under general anesthesia using a rigid bronchoscope, was performed. The tumor was cored out with the tip of the bronchoscope and removed with an alligator forceps. The tumor bed was coagulated with APC. The obstetrical team was ready to intervene in case of maternal emergency. Immediate follow-up was good, and she left the hospital 4 days later. She delivered at 39 weeks of gestation by cesarean section because of dystocia. Five years later, the patient is doing well without any signs or symptoms of recurrence. Pediatric follow-up is normal. Argon Plasma Coagulation for treatment of mucoepidermoid tracheal carcinoma is feasible during pregnancy. Reporting this case could lead to less aggressive management of mucoepidermoid carcinoma in pregnant patients.
Prognostic Factors in Peptic Ulcer Perforations: A Retrospective 14-Year Study
Authors: Unver Mutlu , Fırat Özgür , Ünalp Ömer Vedat , Uğuz Alper , Gümüş Tufan , Sezer Taylan Özgür , Öztürk Şafak , Yoldaş Tayfun , Ersin Sinan , Güler Adem
Published: May 2015

Regarding the complications of peptic ulcer, a perforation remains the most important fatal complication. The aim of our retrospective study was to determine relations between postoperative morbidity and comorbid disease or perioperative risk factors in perforated peptic ulcer. In total, 239 patients who underwent emergency surgery for perforated peptic ulcer in Ege University General Surgery Department, between June 1999 and May 2013 were included in this study. The clinical data concerning the patient characteristics, operative methods, and complications were collected retrospectively. One hundred seventy-five of the 239 patients were male (73.2%) and 64 were female (26.8%). Mean American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) score was 1 in the patients without morbidity, but mean ASA score was 3 in the morbidity and mortality groups. Primary suture and omentoplasty was the selected procedure in 228 of the patients. Eleven patients underwent resection. In total, 105 patients (43.9%) had comorbidities. Thirty-seven patients (67.3%) in the morbidity group had comorbid diseases. Thirteen (92.9%) patients in the mortality group had comorbid diseases. Perforation as a complication of peptic ulcer disease still remains among the frequent indications of urgent abdominal surgery. Among the analyzed parameters, age, ASA score, and having comorbid disease were found to have an effect on both mortality and morbidity. The controversial subject in the present study is regarding the duration of symptoms. The duration of symptoms had no effect on mortality nor morbidity in our study.
Effect of Preoperative Colonic Drainage for Obstructing Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Kochi Mitsugu , Fujii Masashi , Hagiwara Ken , Tamegai Hidenori , Watanabe Megumu , Matsuno Yoritaka , Takayama Yuriko , Suda Hiroshi , Takayama Tadatoshi
Published: May 2015

Obstructing colorectal cancer (OCRC) is believed to indicate poorer long-term survival. The purpose of this study was to compare retrospectively perioperative safety and long-term results in patients undergoing surgery for OCRC following preoperative colonic decompression with that in those undergoing elective surgery alone for nonobstructing colorectal cancer (CRC). A total of 656 consecutive CRC patients undergoing colectomy between 2001 and 2011 at our institute were eligible for inclusion in the study. The patients were divided into an OCRC group, which included 104 patients undergoing colectomy with preoperative colonic decompression, and a CRC group, which included 552 patients undergoing colectomy alone. Morbidity, mortality, and prognosis were assessed. In the OCRC group, decompression was performed by nasointestinal tube in 42 patients (40.4%), transanal tube in 15 (14.4%), and colostomy in 47 (45.2%). The mortality rate was 0% in the OCRC group and 0.4% in the CRC group (2 of 552 patients). The morbidity rate was 44.8% in the OCRC group (48 of 104 patients) and 36.6% in the CRC group (202 of 552 patients). The 5-year overall survival rate was 69.5% in the OCRC group and 72.9% in the CRC group [hazard ratio 0.76; 95% confidence interval, 0.35 to 1.16; P = 0.48)]. No statistically significant difference in survival was observed between the 2 groups in stage II, III, or IV, or overall. No difference was observed in safety or survival between advanced OCRC patients undergoing preoperative colonic decompression and advanced non-obstructing CRC patients undergoing surgery alone.
Transcriptomic Profiles Differentiate Normal Rectal Epithelium and Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Hogan J. , Dejulius K. , Liu X. , Coffey J. C. , Kalady M. F.
Published: May 2015

Adenocarcinoma is a histologic diagnosis based on subjective findings. Transcriptional profiles have been used to differentiate normal tissue from disease and could provide a means of identifying malignancy. The goal of this study was to generate and test transcriptomic profiles that differentiate normal from adenocarcinomatous rectum. Comparisons were made between cDNA microarrays derived from normal epithelium and rectal adenocarcinoma. Results were filtered according to standard deviation to retain only highly dysregulated genes. Genes differentially expressed between cancer and normal tissue on two-groups t test (P < 0.05, Bonferroni P value adjustment) were further analyzed. Genes were rank ordered in terms of descending fold change. For each comparison (tumor versus normal epithelium), those 5 genes with the greatest positive fold change were grouped in a classifier. Five separate tests were applied to evaluate the discriminatory capacity of each classifier. Genetic classifiers derived comparing normal epithelium with malignant rectal epithelium from pooled stages had a mean sensitivity and specificity of 99.6% and 98.2%, respectively. The classifiers derived from comparing normal and stage I cancer had comparable mean sensitivities and specificities (97% and 98%, respectively). Areas under the summary receiver-operator characteristic curves for each classifier were 0.981 and 0.972, respectively. One gene was common to both classifiers. Classifiers were tested in an independent Gene Expression Omnibus–derived dataset. Both classifiers retained their predictive properties. Transcriptomic profiles comprising as few as 5 genes are highly accurate in differentiating normal from adenocarcinomatous rectal epithelium, including early-stage disease.
Forecasting the response of Earth's surface to future climatic and land use changes: A review of methods and research needs
Authors: Pelletier Jon D. , Brad Murray A. , Pierce Jennifer L. , Bierman Paul R. , Breshears David D. , Crosby Benjamin T. , Ellis Michael , Foufoula‐Georgiou Efi , Heimsath Arjun M. , Houser Chris , Lancaster Nick , Marani Marco , Merritts Dorothy J. , Moore Laura J. , Pederson Joel L. , Poulos Michael J. , Rittenour Tammy M. , Rowland Joel C. , Ruggiero Peter , Ward Dylan J. , Wickert Andrew D. , Yager Elowyn M.
Published: May 2015

In the future, Earth will be warmer, precipitation events will be more extreme, global mean sea level will rise, and many arid and semiarid regions will be drier. Human modifications of landscapes will also occur at an accelerated rate as developed areas increase in size and population density. We now have gridded global forecasts, being continually improved, of the climatic and land use changes (C&LUC) that are likely to occur in the coming decades. However, besides a few exceptions, consensus forecasts do not exist for how these C&LUC will likely impact Earth‐surface processes and hazards. In some cases, we have the tools to forecast the geomorphic responses to likely future C&LUC. Fully exploiting these models and utilizing these tools will require close collaboration among Earth‐surface scientists and Earth‐system modelers. This paper assesses the state‐of‐the‐art tools and data that are being used or could be used to forecast changes in the state of Earth's surface as a result of likely future C&LUC. We also propose strategies for filling key knowledge gaps, emphasizing where additional basic research and/or collaboration across disciplines are necessary. The main body of the paper addresses cross‐cutting issues, including the importance of nonlinear/threshold‐dominated interactions among topography, vegetation, and sediment transport, as well as the importance of alternate stable states and extreme, rare events for understanding and forecasting Earth‐surface response to C&LUC. Five supplements delve into different scales or process zones (global‐scale assessments and fluvial, aeolian, glacial/periglacial, and coastal process zones) in detail.
Acceleration of ions by electric field pulses in the inner magnetosphere
Authors: Artemyev A. V. , Liu J. , Angelopoulos V. , Runov A.
Published: May 2015

Intense (∼5–15 mV/m), short‐lived (≤1 min) electric field pulses have been observed to accompany earthward propagating, dipolarizing flux bundles (flux tubes with a strong magnetic field) before they are stopped by the strong dipole field. Using Time History of Events and Macroscale Interactions during Substorms observations and test particle modeling, we investigate particle acceleration around L shell ∼7–9 in the nightside magnetosphere and demonstrate that such pulses can effectively accelerate ions with tens of keV initial energy to hundreds of keV. This acceleration occurs because the ion gyroradius is comparable to the spatial scale of the localized electric field pulse at the leading edge of the flux bundle before it stops. The proposed acceleration mechanism can reproduce observed spectra of high‐energy ions. We conclude that the electric field associated with dipolarizing flux bundles prior to their stoppage in the inner magnetosphere provides a natural site for intense local ion acceleration.