bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Natural mycobiota and aflatoxin B1 presence in bee pollen collected in Serbia
Authors: Petrovic T. , Nedic N. , Paunovic D. , Rajic J. , Matovic K. , Radulovic Z. , Krnjaja V.
Published: January 2015

Total fungal count, incidence of fungi and aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) concentration
were studied in 33 samples of bee pollen randomly collected from beekeepers
in Serbia. The total number of fungi was determined by dilution method
whereas AFB1 was detected using the Enzyme-Linked Immuno-Sorbent Assay
(ELISA). The mycological estimation showed the presence of nine genera of
fungi as followed: Acremonium, Alternaria, Aspergillus, Cladosporium,
Epiccocum, Fusarium, Mucor, Penicillium and Rhizopus, with total number
ranging from 1 x 103 to 1 x 105 CFU g-1. The results have shown the
predominance of the fungi from the genera Aspergillus and Alternaria. Among
Aspergillus species it was observed that the most frequent species was A.
flavus with incidence of 27.27 %. Mycotoxin AFB1 was detected as 100%
positive in all samples (100%) with an average concentration of 8.61 ?g kg-1.
The obtained results indicated that honey bee pollen must be strictly
controlled during its manipulation in the harvesting and manufacturing.
Therefore, the implementation of good manufacturing (beekeeping) practice to
define procedures for honeybee products could be crucial to reduce the risk
of possible contamination and provide natural and safety product without risk
on the human health.
The effect of nitrogen fertilizer rates on green biomass and dry matter yield of Sorghum sp. at different growth stages
Authors: Ikanovic J. , Jankovic S. , Popovic V. , Rakic S. , Drazic G. , Zivanovic Lj. , Kolaric Lj.
Published: January 2015

The paper investigated the production properties of three sorghum genotypes:
NS-Dzin (forage sorghum), Zora (Sudan grass) and Siloking (interspecies
hybrid) in terms of different nitrogen rates used in side dressing in 2009
and 2010. The subject of study was green biomass and dry matter yield in the
stages of intensive growth and tasseling. The results have shown that there
have been significant fluctuations in production indicators between the
genotypes. In the total average, the lowest yield was recorded for the Sudan
grass (85.41 t ha-1). Significantly higher yields were recorded for the
interspecies hybrid (90.22 t ha-1) and the forage sorghum (93.51 t ha-1).
Although the effect of nitrogen rates depended on weather conditions, i.e.
rainfall distribution, the optimal nitrogen rate in both years was 180 kg
ha-1.
Alkyl polyglucoside-stabilized emulsion as a prospective vehicle for Usnea barbata CO2-supercritical extract: Assessing stability, safety and efficiency of a topical formulation
Authors: Zugic Ana , Lukic Milica , Tasic-Kostov Marija , Tadic Vanja , Arsic Ivana , Misic Dusan , Petrovic Slobodan , Savic Snezana
Published: January 2015

Antimicrobial activity of Usnea barbata especially against bacteria involved
in pathogenesis of various skin conditions has been well documented in
literature. Nevertheless, there are no papers dealing with formulation of its
isolates into topical preparations for treatment of skin infections. In
present study, alkyl polyglucoside (APG) - based vehicle was developed as
carrier of U. barbata CO2-supercritical extract (U-SE) that demonstrated the
best antimicrobial potential in preliminary screening. For comparison, chosen
extract in the same concentration and using the same procedure was
incorporated into a pharmacopoeial vehicle. Comparative evaluation of
physicochemical stability, efficiency and safety proved APG-based vehicle to
possess certain preferential features as carrier of U-SE compared to the
reference one, composing a topical formulation with potential clinical
relevance in treatment of skin infections.
Development and validation of an RP-HPLC method for quantification of trans-resveratrol in the plant extracts
Authors: Cvetkovic Zika , Nikolic Vesna , Savic Ivan , Savic-Gajic Ivana , Nikolic Ljubisa
Published: January 2015

New, simple, cost effective, accurate and reproducible RP-HPLC method was
developed and validated for the quantification of trans-resveratrol in the
extracts of grape exocarp and seeds. The method has proved to be simpler and
faster than available methods. Methanol was used as a mobile phase with a
flow rate of 1.0 cm3 min-1, while the quantification was effected at 306 nm.
The separation was performed at 35?C using a C18 column. The results showed
that the peak area response was linear in the concentration range of 1-40 ?g
cm-3. The values of LOD and LOQ were found to be 0.125 and 0.413 ?g cm-3,
respectively. The antioxidant activity of the extracts was determined using
DPPH assay. The ability of DPPH radicals inhibition decreases in the
following order: the extract of grape exocarp > trans-resveratrol standard >
the extract of grape seeds.
The twofold character of created being in Aquinas
Authors: Milidrag Predrag
Published: January 2015

In now classical article from 1958 dedicated to twofold character of
Aquinas?s concept of being Joseph Owens clearly formulates the two
complementary features of esse that function in Aquinas?s metaphysics, namely
1) being understood in the terms of essence, form or nature, as essential and
2) being understood as accidental, not in predicamental meaning but as
something above and beyond the essence of the thing. Firmly relying on whole
Owens?s work, I will try to outline the ways of understanding the meanings of
esse in Aquinas, because a) two character of being are two complementary and
integral components of created being, b) which are really different.
Normative and descriptive theories of decision making under risk
Authors: Damnjanovic Kaja , Jankovic Ivana
Published: January 2015

The approaches to the decision making process are typically either normative
or descriptive. We sketch a historical development of the decision theory,
starting with concept of utility that was first introduced by Daniel
Bernoulli and then explaining the basic concepts of von Neumann and
Morgenstern?s normative expected utility theory (including the basic axioms
of rationality). Then we present the descriptively oriented prospect theory
of Kahneman and Tversky as a critique of the expected utility theory. We
compare these theories and conclude that their historical sequence captures
the sequence of the developmental stages of the decision-making process
itself. However, normative and descriptive theories are not mutually
exclusive.
Volatility Forecasting Using Financial Statement Information
Authors: Sridharan Suhas A.
Published: January 2015

This paper examines whether financial statement information can predict future realized equity volatility incremental to market-based equity volatility forecasts. I use an analytical framework to identify accounting-based drivers of realized volatility. My main hypothesis is that accounting-based drivers can be used to forecast future realized volatility incremental to either past realized volatility or option-implied volatility. I confirm this empirically and document abnormal returns to an option-based trading strategy that takes a long (short) position in firms with financial statement information indicative of high (low) future realized volatility. These results suggest that accounting-based volatility drivers may serve as useful indicators of variance risk. Finally, I demonstrate that the incorporation of accounting-based fundamental information into forecasting models yields lower forecast errors relative to models based solely on past realized volatility.
Mandatory Disclosure and Firm Behavior: Evidence from Share Repurchases
Authors: Bonaimé Alice Adams
Published: January 2015

This paper examines changes in corporate behavior around the 2003 modification to SEC Rule 10b-18, which mandates enhanced disclosure of repurchase transactions. Firms announce significantly fewer and slightly smaller open market repurchase plans in the enhanced disclosure environment. However, completion rates (the amount of stock repurchased as a percentage of the announced amount) significantly increase. More conservative announcement strategies and more aggressive completion rates are consistent with a decline in false signaling. Indeed, open market repurchase announcements are viewed as more credible, on average, in the enhanced disclosure environment; after controlling for firm characteristics, cumulative abnormal announcement returns are significantly greater in the high disclosure period. As with any analysis based on a regulatory change affecting all firms simultaneously, other unobservable, macroeconomic trends could have affected repurchase behavior. Nonetheless, these results are consistent with significant changes in corporate behavior around new mandatory disclosures.

JEL Classifications: G14; G30; G35; G38; M48; K22
The Effectiveness of Credit Rating Agency Monitoring: Evidence from Asset Securitizations
Authors: Bonsall Samuel , Koharki Kevin , Neamtiu Monica
Published: January 2015

This study investigates how differences between the rating agencies' initial (at the date of debt issuance) and subsequent (post-issuance) monitoring incentives affect securitizing banks' rating accuracy. We hypothesize that the agencies have stronger incentives to monitor issuers when providing initial versus post-issuance ratings. We document that initial ratings are positively associated with off-balance sheet securitized assets and incrementally associated with on-balance sheet retained securities. However, subsequent ratings fail to capture current exposure to off-balance sheet securitizations. We also find that subsequent ratings reflect default risk less accurately than initial ratings. The subsequent ratings' responsiveness to default risk is worse when a bank has more off-balance sheet securitized assets. Collectively, our findings are consistent with lax post-issuance monitoring. They raise questions about the effectiveness of using ratings as an ongoing contracting mechanism and suggest that conclusions about rating accuracy could differ depending on whether researchers focus on initial versus post-issuance ratings.
Interaction between Accounting Standards and Monetary Policy: The Effect of SFAS 115
Authors: Meder Anthony A.
Published: January 2015

I examine the effect of marketable security holdings on monetary policy when those securities are classified under SFAS 115. Prior research has shown that loan growth is negatively related to monetary contractions, and that marketable security holdings mitigate that negative relationship. Those studies consider the securities in aggregate; I am the first to consider the securities classification in conjunction with monetary policy. I ask whether held-to-maturity securities, relative to non-held-to-maturity securities, are negatively related to loan growth. I find that the held-to-maturity securities are more negatively related to loan growth, relative to non-held-to-maturity securities. I also find that held-to-maturity securities are incrementally more negatively related to loan growth during monetary tightening, relative to non-tightening times. Finally, I find that both of these effects are stronger for small banks, relative to large banks. Given the findings, I conclude that held-to-maturity securities actually enhance, not mitigate, the effect of monetary tightening on bank lending.
The Effects of Auditor Rotation, Professional Skepticism, and Interactions with Managers on Audit Quality
Authors: Bowlin Kendall O. , Hobson Jessen L. , Piercey M. David
Published: January 2015

We examine whether the effect of mandatory auditor rotation on audit quality depends on the mental frame auditors adopt in evaluating management representations. In practice, auditors can alternately frame their assessments of management representations in terms of their potential dishonesty (what we term skepticism) or potential honesty. Using psychology theory and a laboratory experiment, we predict and find that mandatory rotation improves audit quality when an auditor takes an honesty frame, but that this effect reverses when an auditor takes a skeptical frame. Thus, the benefit of using a skeptical frame occurs when auditors do not rotate, but requiring rotation can reduce audit effort for auditors using a skeptical frame. An implication of our study is that focusing auditors on a skeptical assessment frame rather than mandating auditor rotation may be a less costly way to reduce low-effort audits and aggressive reporting.
Economic Freedom, Investment Flexibility, and Equity Value: A Cross-Country Study
Authors: Chen Chih-Ying , Chen Peter F. , Jin Qinglu
Published: January 2015

Prior studies show that equity value has convex relations with earnings and book value of equity, respectively, due to growth and adaptation options (Burgstahler and Dichev 1997a; Zhang 2000). However, these studies do not consider the role of institutions in affecting firms' ability to exercise growth and adaptation options. In this study, we investigate whether these convex relations vary with the degree of a country's economic freedom, which may influence the frictions and costs of exercising these options. We develop four hypotheses: In countries with greater economic freedom: (1) a firm's capital investment in response to profitability is greater; (2) the relation between equity value and earnings, given equity book value, is more convex; (3) the relation between equity value and equity book value, given earnings, is more convex; and (4) the relation between stock return and profitability change is more convex. Using the Economic Freedom of the World index from the Fraser Institute, we test our hypotheses with data from 30 countries during the 2000–2010 period. The empirical results are consistent with these hypotheses. The effect of economic freedom that we document is distinct from the effects of GDP level and growth, legal origin, law enforcement, investor protection, and quality of accounting standards. Our results suggest that greater economic freedom enhances equity value through more efficient management of investment options.

Data Availability: Data used in this study are available from public sources.
How the Source of Audit Committee Accounting Expertise Influences Financial Reporting Timeliness
Authors: Abernathy John L. , Beyer Brooke , Masli Adi , Stefaniak Chad M.
Published: January 2015

This article summarizes “The Association between Characteristics of Audit Committee Accounting Experts, Audit Committee Chairs, and Financial Reporting Timeliness” (Abernathy, Beyer, Masli, and Stefaniak 2014), which investigates the association between audit committee members' accounting expertise and financial reporting timeliness. While we find a positive relation between audit committee accounting expertise and financial reporting timeliness, interestingly, we also find that accounting expertise gained from public accounting experience is associated with more timely financial reporting than accounting expertise gained from CFO experience. We discuss implications of these findings for auditors, companies, and regulators.
The Effects of Financial Reporting on Bank Loan Contracting in Global Markets: Evidence from Mandatory IFRS Adoption
Authors: Chen Tai-Yuan , Chin Chen-Lung , Wang Shiheng , Yao Wei-Ren
Published: January 2015

This study examines the effects of the mandatory adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) on the contract terms of bank loans in a global setting. Using a difference-in-differences design based on 26,474 bank loans in 31 countries during the 2000–2011 period, we find that borrowers who mandatorily adopt IFRS experience an increase in interest rates, a reduction in the use of accounting-based financial covenants, an increase in the likelihood that a loan is collateralized, a reduction in loan maturity, and an increase in the fraction of a loan retained by lead arrangers. These findings are robust to the removal of the 2008 financial crisis from our analysis, as well as to the matching of IFRS and non-IFRS borrowers on various country- and firm-level characteristics. Furthermore, we find that these changes are more pronounced for borrowers with greater financial reporting changes, as well as those with poorer accounting quality after IFRS adoption.

JEL Classifications: G15; G21; F34; M41.
Noise Propagation in Multiple-Input ADC-Based Measurement Systems
Authors: Bellan Diego
Published: January 2015

In this paper, the complete statistical characterization of the amplitude spectrum at the output of a multiple-input ADC-based measurement system is derived under the assumption of input channels with different noise levels. In practical applications the input channels correspond to the spatial components of a vector field (e.g., magnetic/electric field). Each output spectral line represents the amplitude of the vector field at a specific frequency. Such amplitude is a random variable depending on the noise levels (internal and external noise) of the input channels. Closed form analytical solution for the probability density function of the vector field amplitude is not available in the mathematical literature under the hypothesis of different noise levels. Therefore, an analytical expression for the probability density function is derived on the basis of a Laguerre series expansion. The impact of the kind of time window, the sampling frequency, and the number of samples is clearly derived and put into evidence. Approximate analytical expressions for the mean value and the variance of the vector field amplitude are also provided. Analytical results are validated by means of numerical simulations.
A Novel Three-Head Ultrasonic System for Distance Measurements Based on the Correlation Method
Authors: Gądek Krzysztof , Dudzik Marek , Stręk Anna
Published: January 2015

A novel double-emitter ultrasonic system for distance measurements based on the correlation method is presented. The proposed distance measurement method may be particularly useful in difficult conditions, e.g. for media parameters undergoing fast changes or in cases when obstacles and mechanical interference produce false reflections. The system is a development of a previously studied single-head idea. The present article covers a comparison of the two systems in terms of efficiency and precision. Experimental research described in this paper indicated that adding the second head improved the measurement exactness – standard deviation decreased by 40%. The correlation method is also described in detail, also giving the criterion for the quality of the measurement signal.
Sensor Interaction as a Source of the Electromagnetic Field Measurement Error
Authors: Hartansky R. , Smiesko V. , Bittera M. , Marsalka L. , Cicakova O. , Letanovska L.
Published: January 2015

The article deals with analytical calculation and numerical simulation of interactive influence of electromagnetic sensors. Sensors are components of field probe, whereby their interactive influence causes the measuring error. Electromagnetic field probe contains three mutually perpendicular spaced sensors in order to measure the vector of electrical field. Error of sensors is enumerated with dependence on interactive position of sensors. Based on that, proposed were recommendations for electromagnetic field probe construction to minimize the sensor interaction and measuring error.
Unsupervised Pathological Area Extraction using 3D T2 and FLAIR MR Images
Authors: Dvořák Pavel , Bartušek Karel , Smékal Zdeněk
Published: January 2015

This work discusses fully automated extraction of brain tumor and edema in 3D MR volumes. The goal of this work is the extraction of the whole pathological area using such an algorithm that does not require a human intervention. For the good visibility of these kinds of tissues both T2-weighted and FLAIR images were used. The proposed method was tested on 80 MR volumes of publicly available BRATS database, which contains high and low grade gliomas, both real and simulated. The performance was evaluated by the Dice coefficient, where the results were differentiated between high and low grade and real and simulated gliomas. The method reached promising results for all of the combinations of images: real high grade (0.73 ± 0.20), real low grade (0.81 ± 0.06), simulated high grade (0.81 ± 0.14), and simulated low grade (0.81 ± 0.04).
Dementia is Associated with Chronic Rhinosinusitis: A Population-Based Case-Controlled Study
Authors: Chung Shiu-Dong , Hung Shih-Han , Lin Herng-Ching , Kang Jiunn-Horng
Published: January 2015

Background

Cardiovascular diseases are reported to be associated with both chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) and dementia. Nevertheless, whether dementia is associated with CRS is still unknown. In the present study, we explored the association between dementia with prior CRS using a population-based data set.

Methods

This study used the Taiwan Longitudinal Health Insurance Database 2000 as the source of data for a case-control study. We included 8768 subjects with dementia as cases and 8768 age- and sex-matched subjects as controls. We identified cases who had received a diagnosis of CRS before having received a diagnosis of dementia. Conditional logistic regression analyses were performed to examine the association of dementia with previously diagnosed CRS.

Results

Results showed that of all sampled subjects, 875 (5.0%) had been previously diagnosed with CRS. A chi-squared test showed that there was a significant difference in the prevalences of prior CRS between cases and controls (6.0% versus 4.0%; p < 0.001). The adjusted odds ratio (OR) of prior CRS for subjects with dementia was 1.44 (95% CI, 1.25—1.66) compared with controls. Furthermore, compared with controls, the OR of prior CRS was similar for subjects with dementia for both sexes (the OR for male subjects was 1.48 and OR for female subjects was 1.41).

Conclusion

We concluded that subjects with dementia had a higher odds of having had prior CRS than controls. This study implies a potential association between CRS and dementia.
Prognostic Factors for Survival in Patients with Acute Invasive Fungal Rhinosinusitis
Authors: Cho Hyun-Jin , Jang Min-Seok , Hong Sang Duk , Chung Seung-Kyu , Kim Hyo Yeol , Dhong Hun-Jong
Published: January 2015

Background

Acute invasive fungal rhinosinusitis (AIFR) is an aggressive opportunistic infection with a high mortality rate. There are few reports that demonstrate an improvement in the overall prognosis. Furthermore, definite prognostic factors related to patient survival remain unclear.

Objective

The objective of this study was to evaluate the various clinical factors related to survival of patients with AIFR.

Methods

This is a retrospective case series with patients treated for AIFR between 1997 and 2013. A total of 45 patients with AIFR were enrolled for analysis. We evaluated demographics, clinical characteristics, and disease course.

Results

Mean age of patients was 59.6 years. AIFR developed most commonly in patients with immunocompromised host, such as diabetes (n = 23) or hematologic malignancy (n = 17). There were two main genera of fungus, Aspergillus (n = 30) and Mucor (n = 14). Headache, cranial neuropathy, visual loss, and orbital pain were the most common presenting symptoms. Overall survival was 53%. Underlying hematologic malignancy and diabetes were significantly associated with overall survival, and accompanying severe neutropenia and elevated C-reactive protein (CRP) were also related to poor prognosis. Initial presentation with facial swelling, involvement of nasal septum, or shorter symptom duration was also associated with survival reduction. Multivariate analysis revealed that CRP more than 5.50 mg/dL (Hazard ratio [HR], 9.04; p = 003) was an independent prognostic factor in patients with AIFR.

Conclusions

Overall survival rate remained approximately 50% in patients with AIFR. The prognosis of AIFR is significantly influenced by underlying diseases, accompanying neutropenia, CRP levels, symptom duration, involvement of septum, and the presence of facial swelling. Elevation of CRP, in particular, was an independent predictor of poor outcomes and should be monitored appropriately.
Do Sinus Computed Tomography Findings Predict Olfactory Dysfunction and its Postoperative Recovery in Chronic Rhinosinusitis Patients?
Authors: Kim Byung Guk , Kang Jun Myung , Shin Ji Hyun , Choi Ha Na , Jung Young Hoon , Park So Young
Published: January 2015

Background

Olfactory dysfunction secondary to chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is a mixed disorder of conductive and sensorineural olfactory impairment. Although endoscopic sinus surgery has some beneficial effects on olfaction, the outcomes are challenging to predict. The aim of this study was to assess the olfactory outcomes after surgery, to investigate the correlation between the severity of regional computed tomography (CT) findings and olfactory performance, and to identify the predictors of postoperative outcomes based on unilateral olfactory threshold analysis.

Methods

This study included 167 CRS nostrils of 97 patients with/without polyps (68/99 nostrils) undergoing sinus surgery between January 2007 and December 2011. Olfactory function was evaluated using the butanol threshold test (BTT) before and 6 months after surgery. Clinical and nasal factors from sinus CT scan (sinuses, ostiomeatal complex, olfactory cleft [OC], nasal polyps, and unilateral Lund-Mackay CT score) were analyzed to correlate them with pre- and postoperative olfactory performances.

Results

Eighty-two percent of the CRS nostrils had anosmia or hyposmia. After surgery, 42% of them showed an improvement in BTT score. Despite improvement, most of the subjects remained with residual hyposmia. The BTT scores deteriorated after surgery in 23% of the total subjects. The disease severity of the OC, posterior ethmoid, and frontal sinus were the significant risk factors for CRS-related anosmia. The strongest risk factor for anosmia was totally obstructed OC (odds ratio [OR], 16.56; 95% CI, 4.31-63.71; p = 0.000). The nostrils with anosmia or partly opacified anterior ethmoid benefited from surgery with respect to olfaction.

Conclusion

Our results can give support to the combined use of the butanol threshold and sinonasal CT findings in the evaluation of olfaction in CRS patients and help us counsel the patients about the likelihood of postoperative olfactory recovery.
Spontaneous CSF Rhinorrhea: Prevalence of Multiple Simultaneous Skull Base Defects
Authors: Lieberman Seth M. , Chen Si , Jethanamest Daniel , Casiano Roy R.
Published: January 2015

Background

Spontaneous cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks are caused by intracranial hypertension. Given this underlying etiology, patients may be at risk for developing multiple skull base defects.

Objective

The purpose of our study is to present the prevalence of multiple simultaneous skull base defects in patients with spontaneous CSF rhinorrhea.

Methods

We performed a retrospective chart review in a tertiary care practice of 44 consecutive patients with spontaneous CSF rhinorrhea who underwent endoscopic repair by the senior author (R.R.C.) to determine the prevalence of having multiple simultaneous skull base defects identified at the time of surgery. We defined this as two or more bony defects identified endoscopically with intact intervening bone with or without soft tissue prolapse into the nasal cavity or paranasal sinus cavity.

Results

Eight of 44 patients (18.2%) were found to have multiple simultaneous skull base defects. The average body mass index (BMI) of the study population was 34.5 (range, 22.7-59).

Conclusion

A significant number of patients with spontaneous CSF rhinorrhea may have more than one skull base defect present at the time of presentation. The clinical significance of this finding in surgical and medical decision making is not clear at this time.
Factors Driving the Aspirin Exacerbated Respiratory Disease Phenotype
Authors: Steinke John W. , Borish Larry
Published: January 2015

Background

Aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease (AERD) is explained in part by overexpression of 5-lipoxygenase and leukotriene C4 synthase (LTC4S), resulting in constitutive overproduction of cysteinyl leukotrienes (CysLTs) and driving the surge in CysLT production that occurs with aspirin ingestion. Similarly, AERD is characterized by the overexpression of CysLT receptors. Increased levels of both interleukin (IL)-4 and interferon (IFN)-y are present in the tissue of AERD subjects. Previous studies demonstrated that IL-4 is primarily responsible for the up-regulation of LTC4S by mast cells.

Methods

Literature review.

Results

Our previous studies demonstrated that IFN-γ, but not IL-4, drives this process in eosinophils. These published studies also extend to both IL-4 and IFN-γ the ability to up-regulate CysLT receptors. Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) acts to prevent CysLT secretion by inhibiting mast cell and eosinophil activation. PGE2 concentrations are reduced in AERD, and our published studies confirm that this reflects diminished expression of cyclooxygenase (COX)-2. A process again that is driven by IL-4. Thus, IL-4 and IFN-γ together play an important pathogenic role in generating the phenotype of AERD. Finally, induction of LTC4S and CysLT1 receptors by IL-4 reflects in part the IL-4-mediated activation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 6 (STAT6). Our previous studies demonstrated that aspirin blocks trafficking of STAT6 into the nucleus and thereby prevents IL-4-mediated induction of these transcripts, thereby suggesting a modality by which aspirin desensitization could provide therapeutic benefit for AERD patients.

Conclusion

This review will examine the evidence supporting this model.
Squeeze Bottle versus Saline Spray after Endoscopic Sinus Surgery for Chronic Rhinosinusitis: A Pilot Multicentre Trial
Authors: Macdonald K. I. , Wright E. D. , Sowerby L. J. , Rotenberg B. W. , Chin C. J. , Rudmik L. , Sommer D. D. , Nayan S. , DesRosiers M. , Tewfik M. A. , Valdes C. J. , Massoud E. , Thomas D. , Kilty S. J. , Vescan A. , Mechor B. , Lavigne F. , Fandino M. , Javer A. R. , Witterick I. J.
Published: January 2015

Background

There is a need for controlled trials to guide the perioperative management of patients undergoing endoscopic sinus surgery (ESS). The authors performed a pilot multicenter trial to compare two types of saline delivery devices in this population.

Methods

Patients were randomized to high volume saline irrigation with a squeeze bottle and low volume saline spray after ESS in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). Surgeons were blinded to treatment, and one-month postoperative scores for sinonasal outcomes [Sinonasal Outcome Test-22 (SNOT-22)] scale, nasal and sinus symptom score (NSS), and perioperative sinus endoscopy (POSE) scale were compared with preoperative scores.

Results

Nine centers provided data for 86 patients. All three outcomes measures improved significantly for both groups. Saline spray: SNOT-22 48.8 versus. 23.7, treatment effect 25.1 (95% confidence interval [CI], 17.9-32.2), POSE 21.1 versus. 8.4, treatment effect 12.7 (95% CI, 9.2-16.1), and NSS 8.2 versus 5.0, treatment effect 3.1 (95% CI, 1.4-4.9) pre- and postoperatively, respectively (all p < 0.0001). Squeeze bottle: SNOT-22 49.5 versus 23.6, treatment effect 25.9 (95% CI, 20.3-31.6), POSE 18.6 versus 9.2, treatment effect 9.3, (95% CI 6.7-12.0), and NSS 9.0 versus 5.7, treatment effect 3.3 (95% CI, 2.3-4.3) pre- and postoperatively, respectively (all p < 0.0001). Analysis of variance did not identify a difference between the two treatment groups. Subgroup analysis based on preoperative disease severity did not change the nonassociation of saline bottle with outcome measures. Post hoc sample size calculation determined that 176 patients is required to detect an 8.9-point difference in SNOT-22 scores.

Conclusion

In this pilot multicenter trial examining patients with chronic rhinosinusitis undergoing ESS, both squeeze bottle and saline spray showed significant improvement in SNOT-22, POSE, and NSS scores at one-month postoperatively. Because the study was nonpowered, we cannot rule out a potential difference between the two treatment groups.
Septic Cavernous Sinus Thrombosis Secondary to Acute Bacterial Sinusitis: A Retrospective Study of Seven Cases
Authors: Lizé Franklin , Verillaud Benjamin , Vironneau Pierre , Blancal Jean-Philippe , Guichard Jean-Pierre , Kania Romain , Herman Philippe
Published: January 2015

Background

Septic cavernous sinus thrombosis (SCST) is a rare but severe complication of acute bacterial sinusitis. Evaluations of advances in imaging techniques as well as in medical and surgical treatment are hampered by the lack of recent studies.

Objective

We aim to report our experience in the management of SCST in patients with acute bacterial sphenoid sinusitis over the past 10 years and to discuss the initial work-up and treatment strategies.

Methods

We performed a retrospective study of patients admitted for SCST related to acute sinusitis at a tertiary care center between 2003 and 2013. Clinical charts were reviewed for demographics, clinical presentations, imaging and microbiologic findings, medical and surgical treatments, and outcomes.

Results

Seven patients were treated for SCST. Sphenoid sinus was involved in all cases. The most frequent presenting signs included headache (100%), cranial nerve impairment (86%), fever (71%), and orbital symptoms (71%). Diagnosis was confirmed by a cerebral contrast-enhanced CT scan in all cases. Four patients (57%) had an additional intracranial complication. The average time between clinical onset and diagnosis was 13.7 days. All patients were treated by high-dose i.v. antibiotics, anticoagulation therapy, and surgical endoscopic drainage of the infected sinuses. This treatment strategy resulted in a mortality rate of 0%, but four out of the seven patients developed transient or permanent neurologic deficits, including one with permanent unilateral visual loss.

Conclusion

The combination of high-dose i.v. antibiotics, anticoagulation therapy, and endoscopic drainage of the infected paranasal sinus is an effective strategy for the treatment of SCST, but long-term sequelae remain frequent.
Management of Sinonasal Mucosal Melanomas and Comparison of Classification Staging Systems
Authors: Gras-Cabrerizo Juan R. , León-Vintró Xavier , Tarruella Margarita Majem , Sarria Gabriel Pedemonte , Gonzalez Carolina Bothe , Montserrat-Gili Joan R. , Kolanczak Katherina , Massegur-Solench Humbert
Published: January 2015

Objective

The aim of this study was to describe treatment results in patients with sinonasal mucosal melanomas (SMMs) and to compare three different classification staging systems.

Materials and Methods

From 1988 to 2013, we performed a retrospective study of 20 patients with primary sinonasal melanomas. The median age at diagnosis was 71 years. There were 10 males and 10 females.

Results

Nine SMMs (45%) were originated in the ethmoidal sinus complex, four (20%) in the inferior turbinate, three (15%) in the nasal septum, two (10%) in the maxillary sinus, and two (10%) in the nasal vestibule. Local recurrence was diagnosed in eight patients (40%), and six out of 20 patients (30%) developed distant metastasis during the course of their disease. The adjusted survival rates at three and five years were 47% and 34%, respectively. The adjusted three-year survival rate according to the sinonasal staging system 7th edition for SMM (TNM-SMM) was 60% in T3 stage, 50% in T4a stage, and 34% in T4b stage (p = 0.05). According to Thompson's staging system, survival was 33% for group one, 58% for group two, and 0% for group three (p = 0.006). With the sinonasal staging system 7th edition for carcinoma (TNM-CAR) survival was 33% in T1, 100% in T2 and T3, 0% in T4a, and 34% in T4b (p = 0.006).

Conclusions

Our experience confirms the distribution of patients according to survival rates was better with the TNM-SMM than with Thompson's or the TNM-CAR systems.
The Seasonality of Respiratory Viruses in Patients with Chronic Rhinosinusitis
Authors: Lima Jesse T. , Paula Flavia E. , Proença-Modena José L. , Demarco Ricardo C. , Buzatto Guilherme P. , Saturno Tamara H. , Delcaro Luana S. , Tamashiro Edwin , Valera Fabiana C. P. , Arruda Eurico , Anselmo-Lima Wilma T.
Published: January 2015

Background

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is a common illness, yet little is known about its pathogenesis, including the role played by respiratory viruses.

Methods

A transversal prospective study was conducted to analyze the seasonality of CRS using real-time polymerase chain reaction to detect respiratory virus genomes in secretions and tissue samples from patients with CRS with and without nasal polyps.

Results

The frequency of viral detection was 41% (31/75). The respiratory virus most frequently detected was human rhinovirus, found in 18 patients (24%), followed by human metapneumovirus, human enterovirus, human respiratory sincicial virus, human adenovirus, human bocavirus, human coronavirus, and human influenza virus, detected in 12 (16%), five (6.6%), four (5.3%), four (5.3%), two (2.6%), two (2.6%), and one (1.3%) patient(s), respectively. Although none of the patients presented symptoms when the samples were collected, there was a peak in detection of the most prevalent virus in the autumn and winter seasons of both years, similar to the pattern that occurs in acute conditions.

Conclusions

The pattern of respiratory virus seasonality found in nasal mucosa, polyps, and paranasal sinus samples in patients with CRS reinforces the possibility of asymptomatic respiratory viral infections.
Expression and Regulation of Interleukin-9 in Chronic Rhinosinusitis
Authors: Lin Hai , Lin Dong , Xiong Xi-Sheng , Dai Xiong-Xiong , Lin Ting
Published: January 2015

Background

The pathogenesis of human chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) remains controversial. Recent evidence has suggested that interleukin (IL)-9 is vital in eliciting inflammatory response, stimulating cell proliferation and preventing apoptosis, through binding to the IL-9 receptor (IL-9R). However, little is known about the roles of both molecules in the etiology of CRS. Therefore, this study aimed to assess IL-9 and IL-9R expression and determine their rolesin the pathophysiology of CRS.

Methods

Immunohistochemistry was used to assess IL-9 and IL-9R immunolabeling. In addition, Western blotting and real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) were used for IL-9 and IL-9R protein and mRNA level quantitation, respectively, in CRS and control subjects. Furthermore, the effects of various stimulators at different concentrations and time on IL-9 were evaluated using nasal explant cultures.

Results

IL-9 and IL-9R were overexpressed in CRS, especially in CRS with nasal polyps. Interestingly, IL-9 expression was closely related to that of IL-9R. In addition, IL-9 mRNA levels were increased by treatment with IL-4, IL-17A, IL-1beta, and the IL-4 and transforming growth factor (TGF) beta1 combination, but suppressed by interferon gamma and IL-27.

Conclusion

IL-9 and IL-9R were overexpressed in CRS at both protein and mRNA levels. In addition, IL-4, IL-17A, IL-1beta, and the IL-4 and TGF-beta1 combination contributed to increased IL-9 levels. Our findings indicate that IL-9 may play a proinflammatory role after IL-9R binding to induce mucosal epithelial cell growth, gland epithelial cell proliferation, and inflammatory cell infiltration in CRS. Future studies are required to further define the role of IL-9 in CRS etiology.
Therapeutic Effects of Intranasal Cyclosporine for Eosinophilic Rhinosinusitis with Nasal Polyps in a Mouse Model
Authors: Chang Dong-Yeop , Joo Yeon-Hee , Kim Seong-Jae , Kim Jin Hyun , Jung Myeong Hee , Kim Dae Woo , Jeon Sea-Yuong , Kim Sang-Wook
Published: January 2015

Background

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) is a principally type 2 T helper cell (Th2)-mediated inflammatory disease. Systemic corticosteroids currently represent the most effective treatment for CRSwNP, but their long-term use is constrained due to their detrimental side effects. Long-term use oftopical steroids is safe, but their efficacy is often limited. Topical cyclosporine has proven to be safe and effective for Th2-mediated diseases such as allergic conjunctivitis.

Objective

It was hypothesized that topical cyclosporine would be an effective novel drug for the treatment of CRSwNP; its therapeutic efficacy was assessed using a previously established mouse model.

Methods

After induction of eosinophilic CRSwNP in four-week-old BALB/c mice according to previous protocols, the therapeutic effects of intranasal cyclosporine were evaluated and compared with those of triamcinolone acetonide (TAC). Histopathologic changes were evaluated using hematoxylin and eosin for polyp formation and Sirius red staining for eosinophilic infiltration. The production of cytokines in sinonasal tissues, including tumor necrosis factor (TNF), interleukin (IL)-2, interferon (IFN)-y, IL-4, IL-5, IL-13, and IL-17A, was measured using a cytometric bead array.

Results

The number of polyp-like lesions was reduced significantly only by systemic TAC, but the degree of eosinophilic infiltration was decreased significantly by topical cyclosporine, the potency of which was similar to that of topical or systemic TAC. Except for IFN-γ, the majority of measured cytokines were reduced significantly by topical cyclosporine, although their effects on IL-2 and IL-13 were less potent than those of systemic TAC.

Conclusion

Topical cyclosporine might be an effective drug for the management of CRSwNP.
Longitudinal Evaluation of Muscle Composition Using Magnetic Resonance in 4 Boys With Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy: Case Series
Authors: Senesac Claudia R. , Lott Donovan J. , Forbes Sean C. , Mathur Sunita , Arpan Ishu , Senesac Emily S. , Walter Glenn A. , Vandenborne Krista
Published: January 2015

Background

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), an inherited recessive X chromosome-linked disease, is the most severe childhood form of muscular dystrophy. Boys with DMD experience muscle loss, with infiltration of intramuscular fat into muscles.

Objectives

This case series describes the progression of DMD in boys using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS). Magnetic resonance results are then compared with an established functional timed test.

Methods

Four boys with DMD and 4 healthy age-matched controls were chosen from a larger cohort. Boys with DMD were assessed at 4 time points over 2 years, with controls assessed at baseline only. Progression of the disease was documented by assessing the plantar flexors using MRI and MRS techniques and by assessing ambulation using the 30-Foot Fast Walk Test.

Results

Transverse relaxation time (T2) values were elevated in all boys with DMD at baseline. The lipid ratio increased rapidly as the disease progressed in 2 boys. Discrete changes in T2 in the other 2 boys with DMD indicated a slower disease progression. Magnetic resonance imaging and MRS allowed monitoring of the disease over all time periods regardless of ambulation status.

Limitations

The magnetic resonance data were collected with 2 different magnets at 2 different field strengths (1.5 and 3.0 T). Although we corrected for this difference, care must be taken in interpreting data when different image collection systems are used. This was a case series of 4 boys with DMD taken from a larger cohort study.

Conclusions

Magnetic resonance imaging and MRS are objective, noninvasive techniques for measuring muscle pathology and can be used to detect discrete changes in both people who are ambulatory and those who are nonambulatory. These techniques should be considered when monitoring DMD progression and assessing efficacy of therapeutic interventions.
Self-Employment and Retirement in Canada: The Labour Force Dynamics of Older Workers
Authors: Schuetze Herbert J.
Published: January 2015

Using panel data from the Surveys of Labour and Income Dynamics covering the period 1993 to 2008 in Canada this study examines labour force transitions among older workers. High rates of self-employment among older workers primarily result from greater labour market continuation among the self-employed compared to paid employees. Older self-employed men across all characteristics examined are more likely to continue working at each age, while self-employed women do not respond to age-related factors (such as the pension system) to the same extent as paid employees. Labour market continuation is found to be higher among late-life entrants to self-employment than among paid employees after accounting for individual characteristics and job tenure.
Canine Atopic Dermatitis Diagnostic Criteria: Evaluation of Four Sets of Published Criteria among Veterinary Students
Authors: Le Roy Lucile , Le Poder Sophie , Desquilbet Loïc , Perrot Sebastien , Cavana Paola , Marignac Geneviève
Published: January 2015

Canine atopic dermatitis (cAD) is a major teaching point as its diagnosis and treatment are difficult. During 11 weeks, 140 dogs and students (third, fourth, and fifth years) were recruited and paired. One of the four lists of diagnostic criteria was randomly attributed to each student. Concordance results, calculated with Cohen's kappa, ranged from slight (κ=0.07) to moderate (κ=0.53). Favrot's diagnostic criteria received the best results. It has been observed that results are improved with clinical experience. We observed that students often forgot that Favrot's criteria apply only to pruritic dogs and that the fulfillment of the criteria allows only a suspicion, not a diagnosis, of cAD. Primary pruritus and corticosteroid-responsive pruritus were often misunderstood.
Estimation of optimum sample size and number of replications in split-split plot design
Authors: Islam Md Saiful
Published: January 2015

In field experiments, it is necessary to determine the optimum sample size as well as optimum number of replications if researchers have to use sampling techniques for collecting data from such experiments. Estimates of such optimum sample size and number of replications has been determined for split-split plot design minimizing the variance for a given cost of the experiment per treatment.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjar.v32i3.542Bangladesh J. Agril. Res. 32(3) : 403-411, September 2007
Nutrient uptake and yield of onion as influenced by nitrogen and sulphur fertilization
Authors: Nasreen S , Haque MM , Hossain MA , Farid ATM
Published: January 2015

The effect of nitrogen (0, 80, 120, and 160 kg/ha from urea) and sulphur (0, 20, 40, and 60 kg/ha from gypsum) fertilization on N and S uptake and yield performance of onion (var. BARI Piaz-1) was studied in the research field of Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute (BARI), Joydebpur, Gazipur during rabi seasons of 2002-2003 and 2003-2004. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design under factorial arrangement with three replications. Addition of nitrogen and sulphur fertilizers exerted significant influence on the number of leaves/plant, plant height, diameter of bulb, single bulb weight, and yield of onion. The uptake of N and S by bulb also significantly responded to the application of nitrogen and sulphur. The highest yield of onion and the maximum uptake of N and S were recorded by the combined application of 120 kg N and 40 kg S/ha with a blanket dose of 90 kg P2O5, 90 kg K2O, and 5 kg Zn/ha plus 5 tons of cowdung/ha. The antagonistic effect of nitrogen and sulphur on the uptake of N and S by bulb, yield components, and yield of onion was observed only when they were applied together at higher rates of nitrogen (160 kg/ha) and sulphur (40kg/ha). DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjar.v32i3.543Bangladesh J. Agril. Res. 32(3) : 413-420, September 2007