bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stereoelectroencephalography for continuous two-dimensional cursor control in a brain-machine interface
Authors: Vadera Sumeet , Marathe Amar R. , Gonzalez-Martinez Jorge , Taylor Dawn M.
Published: May 2013

Stereoelectroencephalography (SEEG) is becoming more prevalent as a planning tool for surgical treatment of intractable epilepsy. Stereoelectroencephalography uses long, thin, cylindrical “depth” electrodes containing multiple recording contacts along each electrode's length. Each lead is inserted into the brain percutaneously. The advantage of SEEG is that the electrodes can easily target deeper brain structures that are inaccessible with subdural grid electrodes, and SEEG does not require a craniotomy. Brain-machine interface (BMI) research is also becoming more common in the Epilepsy Monitoring Unit. A brain-machine interface decodes a person's desired movement or action from the recorded brain activity and then uses the decoded brain activity to control an assistive device in real time. Although BMIs are primarily being developed for use by severely paralyzed individuals, epilepsy patients undergoing invasive brain monitoring provide an opportunity to test the effectiveness of different invasive recording electrodes for use in BMI systems. This study investigated the ability to use SEEG electrodes for control of 2D cursor velocity in a BMI. Two patients who were undergoing SEEG for intractable epilepsy participated in this study. Participants were instructed to wiggle or rest the hand contralateral to their SEEG electrodes to control the horizontal velocity of a cursor on a screen. Simultaneously they were instructed to wiggle or rest their feet to control the vertical component of cursor velocity. The BMI system was designed to detect power spectral changes associated with hand and foot activity and translate those spectral changes into horizontal and vertical cursor movements in real time. During testing, participants used their decoded SEEG signals to move the brain-controlled cursor to radial targets that appeared on the screen. Although power spectral information from 28 to 32 electrode contacts were used for cursor control during the experiment, post hoc analysis indicated that better control may have been possible using only a single SEEG depth electrode containing multiple recording contacts in both hand and foot cortical areas. These results suggest that the advantages of using SEEG for epilepsy monitoring may also apply to using SEEG electrodes in BMI systems. Specifically, SEEG electrodes can target deeper brain structures, such as foot motor cortex, and both hand and foot areas can be targeted with a single SEEG electrode implanted percutaneously. Therefore, SEEG electrodes may be an attractive option for simple BMI systems that use power spectral modulation in hand and foot cortex for independent control of 2 degrees of freedom.
Contribution of estrogen receptors alpha and beta in the brain response to traumatic brain injury
Authors: Asl Saleh Zahedi , Khaksari Mohammad , Khachki Ali Siahposht , Shahrokhi Nader , Nourizade Shahla
Published: May 2013

Object

Although there is evidence that estradiol has neuroprotective effects after traumatic brain injury (TBI) in female rats, it is unclear which estrogen receptor (ER) subtype, ERα or ERβ, mediates this effect. The authors therefore examined the roles of the different ERs in this effect. Here the authors used the ERα selective agonist propyl pyrazole triol (PPT) and the ERβ selective agonist diarylpropionitrile (DPN) alone and in combination in female rats to investigate this question.

Methods

Before the ovariectomized animals were injured using the Marmarou TBI technique, they were randomly divided into the following 9 groups: control, sham, TBI, vehicle, E1 (physiological dose of 17-β estradiol), E2 (pharmacological dose of 17-β estradiol), PPT, DPN, and PPT+DPN. Levels of blood-brain barrier (BBB) disruption (5 hours) and water content (24 hours) were evaluated after TBI. In groups receiving drugs or vehicle, treatment was administered as a single dose intraperitoneally 30 minutes after induction of TBI.

Results

Results showed that brain edema or brain water content after TBI was lower (p < 0.001) in the E2, PPT, DPN, and PPT+DPN groups than it was in the vehicle group. After trauma, the Evans blue dye content or BBB permeability was significantly higher in the TBI and vehicle groups (p < 0.001) than in the E2, PPT, DPN, and PPT+DPN groups. The inhibitory effects of PPT+DPN on brain water content, neurological scores, and Evans blue dye content were the highest for all groups. Although both PPT and DPN increased neurological scores after TBI, PPT appears to be more effective in increasing neurological scores.

Conclusions

Neuroprotective effects of estradiol on brain edema, BBB permeability, and neurological scores are mediated through both ERα and ERβ. This may suggest a therapeutic potential in the brain trauma for ER-specific agonists.
Hypoglossal canal dural arteriovenous fistula: incidence and the relationship between symptoms and drainage pattern
Authors: Choi Jong Won , Kim Byung Moon , Kim Dong Joon , Kim Dong Ik , Suh Sang Hyun , Shin Na-Young , Lee Jin Goo
Published: May 2013

Object

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the incidence, radiographic findings, relationship between presenting symptoms for treatment and drainage pattern, and treatment outcomes of hypoglossal canal dural arteriovenous fistula (HC-dAVF).

Methods

During a 16-year period, 238 patients underwent endovascular treatment for cranial dAVF at a single center. The incidence, radiographic findings, relationship between presenting symptoms for treatment and drainage pattern, and treatment outcomes of HC-dAVF were retrospectively evaluated.

Results

The incidence of HC-dAVF was 4.2% (n = 10). Initial symptoms were tinnitus with headache (n = 6), tinnitus only (n = 1), ocular symptoms (n = 1), otalgia (n = 1), and congestive myelopathy (n = 1). Presenting symptoms requiring treatment included ocular symptoms (n = 4), hypoglossal nerve palsy (n = 4), aggravation of myelopathy (n = 1), and aggravation of tinnitus with headache (n = 1). While the affected HC was widened in 4 of 10 patients, hypersignal intensity on source images was conspicuous in all 7 patients who underwent MR angiography (MRA). All ocular symptoms and congestive myelopathy were associated with predominant drainage to superior ophthalmic or perimedullary veins due to antegrade drainage restriction. All patients who underwent transvenous coil embolization (n = 8) or transarterial N-butyl cyanoacrylate (NBCA) embolization (n = 1) improved without recurrence. One patient who underwent transarterial particle embolization had a recurrence 12 months posttreatment and was retreated with transvenous embolization.

Conclusions

The incidence of HC-dAVF was 4.2% of all cranial dAVF patients who underwent endovascular treatment. Source images of MRA helped to accurately diagnose HC-dAVF. More aggressive symptoms may develop as a result of a change in the predominant drainage route due to the development of venous stenosis or obstruction over time. Transvenous coil embolization appears to be the first treatment of choice.
Influence of Mesogenic Properties of Cruciform-Shaped Liquid Crystals by Incorporating Side-Arms with a Laterally-Substituted-Fluorine
Authors: Lin Yi-Hui , Ezhumalai Yamuna , Yang Yu-Ling , Liao Ching-Ting , Hsu Hsiu-Fu , Wu Chunhung
Published: May 2013

Fluoro substitution in thermotropic liquid crystals provides a general way of modifying the properties of a parent system. Transition temperatures, mesophase types and other physical properties can be affected by fluoro substitution, so that frequently the behaviors of the parent compound can be manipulated and improved in a predictable manner. This paper discusses the effects of a fluoro substitution in each side-arm of 1,2,4,5-tetrakis((4-(alkoxy)phenyl)ethynyl)benzenes on the resulting mesomorphic properties characterized by optical polarizing microscopy and differential scanning calorimetry. Without any fluoro-substituted side-arms, longer chain-length leads to a wider nematic temperature range on cooling. Incorporation of a fluoro substitution in each side-arm induces the formation of a lamellar suprastructure, lowers transition temperatures and results in a wider mesophase temperature range on cooling.
Thermoelectric System in Different Thermal and Electrical Configurations: Its Impact in the Figure of Merit
Authors: Vargas-Almeida Alexander , Olivares-Robles Miguel , Camacho-Medina Pablo
Published: May 2013

In this work, we analyze different configurations of a thermoelectric system (TES) composed of three thermoelectric generators (TEGs). We present the following considerations: (a) TES thermally and electrically connected in series (SC); (b) TES thermally and electrically connected in parallel (PSC); and (c) parallel thermally and series electrical connection (SSC). We assume that the parameters of the TEGs are temperature-independent. The systems are characterized by three parameters, as it has been showed in recent investigations, namely, its internal electrical resistance, R, thermal conductance under open electrical circuit condition, K, and Seebeck coefficient α. We derive the equivalent parameters for each of the configurations considered here and calculate the Figure of Merit Z for the equivalent system. We show the impact of the configuration of the system on Z, and we suggest optimum configuration. In order to justify the effectiveness of the equivalent Figure of Merit, the corresponding efficiency has been calculated for each configuration.
Applying Models to National Surveys of Undergraduate Science Students: What Affects Ratings of Satisfaction?
Authors: Langan Anthony , Dunleavy Peter , Fielding Alan
Published: May 2013

Many countries use national-level surveys to capture student opinions about their university experiences. It is necessary to interpret survey results in an appropriate context to inform decision-making at many levels. To provide context to national survey outcomes, we describe patterns in the ratings of science and engineering subjects from the UK’s National Student Survey (NSS). New, robust statistical models describe relationships between the Overall Satisfaction’ rating and the preceding 21 core survey questions. Subjects exhibited consistent differences and ratings of “Teaching”, “Organisation” and “Support” were thematic predictors of “Overall Satisfaction” and the best single predictor was “The course was well designed and running smoothly”. General levels of satisfaction with feedback were low, but questions about feedback were ultimately the weakest predictors of “Overall Satisfaction”. The UK’s universities affiliated groupings revealed that more traditional “1994” and “Russell” groups over-performed in a model using the core 21 survey questions to predict “Overall Satisfaction”, in contrast to the under-performing newer universities in the Million+ and Alliance groups. Findings contribute to the debate about “level playing fields” for the interpretation of survey outcomes worldwide in terms of differences between subjects, institutional types and the questionnaire items.
MicroRNA-Regulated Protein-Protein Interaction Networks and Their Functions in Breast Cancer
Authors: Lee Chia-Hsien , Kuo Wen-Hong , Lin Chen-Ching , Oyang Yen-Jen , Huang Hsuan-Cheng , Juan Hsueh-Fen
Published: May 2013

MicroRNAs, which are small endogenous RNA regulators, have been associated with various types of cancer. Breast cancer is a major health threat for women worldwide. Many miRNAs were reported to be associated with the progression and carcinogenesis of breast cancer. In this study, we aimed to discover novel breast cancer-related miRNAs and to elucidate their functions. First, we identified confident miRNA-target pairs by combining data from miRNA target prediction databases and expression profiles of miRNA and mRNA. Then, miRNA-regulated protein interaction networks (PINs) were constructed with confident pairs and known interaction data in the human protein reference database (HPRD). Finally, the functions of miRNA-regulated PINs were elucidated by functional enrichment analysis. From the results, we identified some previously reported breast cancer-related miRNAs and functions of the PINs, e.g., miR-125b, miR-125a, miR-21, and miR-497. Some novel miRNAs without known association to breast cancer were also found, and the putative functions of their PINs were also elucidated. These include miR-139 and miR-383. Furthermore, we validated our results by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis using our miRNA expression profile data, gene expression-based outcome for breast cancer online (GOBO) survival analysis, and a literature search. Our results may provide new insights for research in breast cancer-associated miRNAs.
An Overview of Biological Macromolecule Crystallization
Authors: Russo Krauss Irene , Merlino Antonello , Vergara Alessandro , Sica Filomena
Published: May 2013

The elucidation of the three dimensional structure of biological macromolecules has provided an important contribution to our current understanding of many basic mechanisms involved in life processes. This enormous impact largely results from the ability of X-ray crystallography to provide accurate structural details at atomic resolution that are a prerequisite for a deeper insight on the way in which bio-macromolecules interact with each other to build up supramolecular nano-machines capable of performing specialized biological functions. With the advent of high-energy synchrotron sources and the development of sophisticated software to solve X-ray and neutron crystal structures of large molecules, the crystallization step has become even more the bottleneck of a successful structure determination. This review introduces the general aspects of protein crystallization, summarizes conventional and innovative crystallization methods and focuses on the new strategies utilized to improve the success rate of experiments and increase crystal diffraction quality.
Modulation by Melatonin of the Pathogenesis of Inflammatory Autoimmune Diseases
Authors: Lin Gu-Jiun , Huang Shing-Hwa , Chen Shyi-Jou , Wang Chih-Hung , Chang Deh-Ming , Sytwu Huey-Kang
Published: May 2013

Melatonin is the major secretory product of the pineal gland during the night and has multiple activities including the regulation of circadian and seasonal rhythms, and antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. It also possesses the ability to modulate immune responses by regulation of the T helper 1/2 balance and cytokine production. Autoimmune diseases, which result from the activation of immune cells by autoantigens released from normal tissues, affect around 5% of the population. Activation of autoantigen-specific immune cells leads to subsequent damage of target tissues by these activated cells. Melatonin therapy has been investigated in several animal models of autoimmune disease, where it has a beneficial effect in a number of models excepting rheumatoid arthritis, and has been evaluated in clinical autoimmune diseases including rheumatoid arthritis and ulcerative colitis. This review summarizes and highlights the role and the modulatory effects of melatonin in several inflammatory autoimmune diseases including multiple sclerosis, systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, type 1 diabetes mellitus, and inflammatory bowel disease.
Chemical Composition of Aspidosperma ulei Markgr. and Antiplasmodial Activity of Selected Indole Alkaloids
Authors: Dos Santos Torres Zelina , Silveira Edilberto , Rocha e Silva Luiz , Lima Emerson , De Vasconcellos Marne , De Andrade Uchoa Daniel , Filho Raimundo , Pohlit Adrian
Published: May 2013

A new indole alkaloid, 12-hydroxy-N-acetyl-21(N)-dehydroplumeran-18-oic acid (13), and 11 known indole alkaloids: 3,4,5,6-tetradehydro-β-yohimbine (3), 19(E)-hunteracine (4), b-yohimbine (5), yohimbine (6), 19,20-dehydro-17-a-yohimbine (7), uleine (10), 20-epi-dasycarpidone (11), olivacine (8), 20-epi-N-nor-dasycarpidone (14), N-demethyluleine (15) and 20(E)-nor-subincanadine E (12) and a boonein d-lactone 9, ursolic acid (1) and 1D,1O-methyl-chiro-inositol (2) were isolated from the EtOH extracts of different parts of Aspidosperma ulei Markgr. (Apocynaceae). Identification and structural elucidation were based on IR, MS, 1H- and 13C-NMR spectral data and comparison to literature data. The antiplasmodial and antimalarial activity of 1, 5, 6, 8, 10 and 15 has been previously evaluated and 1 and 10 have important in vitro and in vivo antimalarial properties according to patent and/or scientific literature. With the aim of discovering new antiplasmodial indole alkaloids, 3, 4, 11, 12 and 13 were evaluated for in vitro inhibition against the multi-drug resistant K1 strain of the human malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum. IC50 values of 14.0 (39.9), 4.5 (16.7) and 14.5 (54.3) mg/mL (mM) were determined for 3, 11 and 12, respectively. Inhibitory activity of 3, 4, 11, 12 and 13 was evaluated against NIH3T3 murine fibroblasts. None of these compounds exhibited toxicity to fibroblasts (IC50 > 50 mg/mL). Of the five compounds screened for in vitro antiplasmodial activity, only 11 was active.
Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Activities of Ethanol Extract from the Stem and Leaf of Impatiens balsamina L. (Balsaminaceae) at Different Harvest Times
Authors: Kang Suk-Nam , Goo Young-Min , Yang Mi-Ra , Ibrahim Rashid , Cho Jae-Hyeon , Kim Il-Suk , Lee Ok-Hwan
Published: May 2013

The aim of this study was to investigate the total phenolic content, total flavonoid contents, antioxidant activity and antimicrobial activity of ethanolic extract from stems (S) and leaves (L) of Impatiens balsamina L. (Balsaminaceae), which were harvested in Korea on March 10, 2011 (S1 and L1), May 14, 2011 (S2 and L2), and July 5, 2011 (S3 and L3), respectively. Our results revealed that the total phenolic (79.55–103.94 mg CE/g extract) and flavonoid (57.43–104.28 mg QE/g extract) contents of leaf extract were higher (p < 0.01) than those of stem extract. Leaf extracts (L1, L2, and L3) exhibited stronger (p < 0.01) free radical scavenging activity (66.06, 63.71, and 72.19%, respectively) than that of the positive control. In terms of antimicrobial activity, leaf extracts showed higher inhibitory effects against microorganisms than those of stem extracts (S1, S2, and S3). Among the leaf extracts at different harvest times, L3 showed the greatest antimicrobial activity against both Gram negative and Gram positive strains. From these results, the leaf extract from I. balsamina L. might be a valuable bioactive resource, and would seem to be applicable as a natural antioxidant in food preservation.
Design, Synthesis and Trypanocidal Evaluation of Novel 1,2,4-Triazoles-3-thiones Derived from Natural Piperine
Authors: Franklim Tatiany , Freire-de-Lima Leonardo , De Nazareth Sá Diniz Julliana , Previato José , Castro Rosane , Mendonça-Previato Lucia , De Lima Marco
Published: May 2013

The work reported herein describes the synthesis and the assessment of the trypanocidal activity of thirteen new 1,2,4-triazole-3-thiones obtained from natural piperine, the main constituent of the dry fruits of Piper nigrum. It is part of a research program aiming to use abundant and easily available natural products as starting materials for the design and synthesis of new molecules potentially useful as antiparasitic drugs. The variously substituted triazole derivatives were synthesized from the natural amide in four steps with the use of microwave irradiation on overall yields ranging from 32% to 51%. The cyclohexyl substituted derivative showed the best trypanocidal profile on proliferative forms of Trypanosoma cruzi (Y strain), with IC50s = 18.3 and 8.87 mM against epimastigotes and amastigotes, respectively.
[Fe2L3]4+ Cylinders Derived from Bis(bidentate) 2-Pyridyl-1,2,3-triazole “Click” Ligands: Synthesis, Structures and Exploration of Biological Activity
Authors: Vellas Sreedhar , Lewis James , Shankar Madhu , Sagatova Alia , Tyndall Joel , Monk Brian , Fitchett Christopher , Hanton Lyall , Crowley James
Published: May 2013

A series of metallosupramolecular [Fe2L3](BF4)4 “click” cylinders have been synthesized in excellent yields (90%–95%) from [Fe(H2O)6](BF4)2 and bis(bidentate) pyridyl-1,2,3-triazole ligands. All complexes were characterized by elemental analysis, IR, UV-vis, 1H-, 13C- and DOSY-NMR spectroscopies and, in four cases, the structures confirmed by X-ray crystallography. Molecular modeling indicated that some of these “click” complexes were of similar size and shape to related biologically active pyridylimine-based iron(II) helicates and suggested that the “click” complexes may bind both duplex and triplex DNA. Cell-based agarose diffusion assays showed that the metallosupramolecular [Fe2L3](BF4)4 “click” cylinders display no antifungal activity against S. cerevisiae. This observed lack of antifungal activity appears to be due to the poor stability of the “click” complexes in DMSO and biological media.
Comparison of Electronic Fruits for Impact Detection on a Laboratory Scale
Authors: Praeger Ulrike , Surdilovic Jelena , Truppel Ingo , Herold Bernd , Geyer Martin
Published: May 2013

Mechanical loads cause severe damage to perishable agricultural products. In order to quantify the mechanical impact during harvest and postharvest processes, several electronic fruits have been developed. The objective of the work described here was to compare on a laboratory scale different types of impact acceleration recording electronic fruits: Mikras implanted in a real potato tuber as well as in a dummy tuber, IRD, Smart Spud and TuberLog. The acquisition of mechanical impacts was performed using a drop simulator with optional steel or PVC as impact material as well as a processing line simulator. Our results show that drops from 10 cm height on PVC caused similar peak accelerations of Mikras implanted in a real potato or a dummy, IRD and TuberLog. When dropped onto steel however, IRD, TuberLog and Mikras implanted in a dummy recorded higher peak values than Mikras in real potatoes. Impact on the flat side of a tuber led to higher peak values than impact on the apical region. This could be caused by different elastic compliance of synthetic materials as well as material thickness. Running through the processing line simulator TuberLog recorded the most impact; Smart Spud recorded a low number of impacts compared to the other electronic fruits. In all experiments the least sensitive measurements were recorded using Smart Spud.
Finite Element Analysis of Electrically Excited Quartz Tuning Fork Devices
Authors: Oria Roger , Otero Jorge , González Laura , Botaya Luis , Carmona Manuel , Puig-Vidal Manel
Published: May 2013

Quartz Tuning Fork (QTF)-based Scanning Probe Microscopy (SPM) is an important field of research. A suitable model for the QTF is important to obtain quantitative measurements with these devices. Analytical models have the limitation of being based on the double cantilever configuration. In this paper, we present an electromechanical finite element model of the QTF electrically excited with two free prongs. The model goes beyond the state-of-the-art of numerical simulations currently found in the literature for this QTF configuration. We present the first numerical analysis of both the electrical and mechanical behavior of QTF devices. Experimental measurements obtained with 10 units of the same model of QTF validate the finite element model with a good agreement.
Improvements to and Comparison of Static Terrestrial LiDAR Self-Calibration Methods
Authors: Chow Jacky , Lichti Derek , Glennie Craig , Hartzell Preston
Published: May 2013

Terrestrial laser scanners are sophisticated instruments that operate much like high-speed total stations. It has previously been shown that unmodelled systematic errors can exist in modern terrestrial laser scanners that deteriorate their geometric measurement precision and accuracy. Typically, signalised targets are used in point-based self-calibrations to identify and model the systematic errors. Although this method has proven its effectiveness, a large quantity of signalised targets is required and is therefore labour-intensive and limits its practicality. In recent years, feature-based self-calibration of aerial, mobile terrestrial, and static terrestrial laser scanning systems has been demonstrated. In this paper, the commonalities and differences between point-based and plane-based self-calibration (in terms of model identification and parameter correlation) are explored. The results of this research indicate that much of the knowledge from point-based self-calibration can be directly transferred to plane-based calibration and that the two calibration approaches are nearly equivalent. New network configurations, such as the inclusion of tilted scans, were also studied and prove to be an effective means for strengthening the self-calibration solution, and improved recoverability of the horizontal collimation axis error for hybrid scanners, which has always posed a challenge in the past.
The Life Cycle CO2 (LCCO2) Evaluation of Retrofits for Water-Saving Fittings
Authors: Shimizu Yasutoshi
Published: May 2013

As part of measures being taken against global warming, the reduction of CO2 emissions by retrofitting for water-saving fittings in homes is spreading throughout the world. However, although this retrofitting reduces the environmental impact at the use stage, it generates new impacts at the production and disposal stages. In addition, there has been little research that discusses the reduction in environmental impact obtained by retrofitting from the viewpoint of the overall life cycle of such fittings. In this paper, an evaluation of the environmental impact of retrofitting in terms of the entire life cycle was carried out for toilet bowls and showerheads. The findings show that even for a toilet bowl that generates a large environmental load at the production stage, there is no overall increase in the environmental impact by retrofitting for the average usable life of 20 years.
Que reste-t-il du rôle civilisateur du complexe d'Œdipe ?
Authors: Berger Maurice
Published: May 2013

À partir de sa pratique clinique, l’auteur, pédopsychiatre et psychanalyste, constate que le fonctionnement psychique de certains enfants et adolescents s’est modifié dans notre civilisation sous l’influence de changements survenus dans la structure familiale, d’une dissolution de nos instances surmoïques collectives, du refus de reconnaître l’inéluctabilité de la perte dans tout destin humain et sous l’impact de facteurs technologiques tels qu’Internet. Ces changements sont difficilement réversibles et laissent présager, selon l’auteur, une dégradation considérable du fonctionnement de notre société.
La dynamique des taux de chômage, de destruction et de retour à l'emploi
Authors: Abeille-Becker Camille , Clerc Pierrick
Published: May 2013

Nous déterminons un étalonnage permettant au modèle d’appariement de reproduire la volatilité du taux de chômage ainsi que celle de ses deux composantes, le taux de retour à l’emploi et le taux de destruction d’emplois. Nous mettons en exergue un mécanisme central de ce modèle : l’introduction de destructions cycliques amplifie la volatilité du taux de retour à l’emploi. Ce mécanisme implique que ce modèle ne nécessite pas d’avoir recours à des rigidités du salaire réel et que la valeur du coût d’opportunité de l’emploi nécessaire à la reproduction des différentes volatilités soit moins élevée que dans le modèle à destructions constantes et donc plus plausible.
Diferencias en la evolución del paisaje entre dos municipios Prepirenaicos: Alquézar y Valle de Lierp, en la segunda mitad del siglo XX
Authors: Heredia-Laclaustra A. , Frutos-Mejías L. M. , González-Hidalgo J. C.
Published: May 2013

Los rápidos cambios socioeconómicos globales ocurridos durante la segunda mitad del siglo XX transformaron radicalmente el sistema de gestión territorial en el ámbito rural de la montaña mediterránea y, concretamente, en el Prepirineo oscense. La disminución de la población joven y activa económicamente, así como la transformación del modelo productivo, conllevaron un cambio en la estrategia tradicional de aprovechamiento y ocupaciones del suelo, que ha dejado su impronta en el paisaje. No obstante, las particularidades locales biofísicas e históricas condicionan la aparición de matizaciones al modelo de transformación general del paisaje, basado fundamentalmente en la disminución de la presión humana sobre el territorio. El contraste entre dos municipios en el ámbito del Prepirineo oscense (Alquézar y Valle de Lierp) ilustra estas variaciones, contextualizadas por el análisis de la composición del paisaje del Prepirineo oscense. Se realiza, por lo tanto, un estudio retrospectivo y multiescala centrado en la unidad operacional que constituye el municipio, donde se evalúa la composición, configuración y estructura del paisaje a través del análisis de sus componentes, de modelos de transición y de la aplicación de índices de paisaje. El desarrollo metodológico de este trabajo se ha simplificado gracias al empleo de SIG (ARC GIS.9) y FRAGSTAT, un programa de índices de ecología del paisaje.
Baseline study of the distribution of marine debris on soft-bottom habitats associated with trawling grounds in the northern Mediterranean
Authors: Sánchez Pilar , Masó Mercedes , Sáez Raquel , De Juan Silvia , Muntadas Alba , Demestre Montserrat
Published: May 2013

The present study aims to analyse the local and regional variability in the density and typology of marine debris on fishing grounds on the northern Mediterranean continental shelf, and to test relationships between marine litter and trawl fishing activity. Moreover, the colonization of plastics was examined in order to study the importance of plastics as a source of impact on marine communities and their further environmental implications. This study surveyed 11 sites, associated with trawling grounds and subjected to different levels of fishing intensity, located in four areas of the Mediterranean: one in Italy, the Central Tyrrhenian coast, one in Greece, the eastern Ionian coast, and two in Spain, the Murcian and Catalan coasts. Samples were collected during an oceanographic cruise undertaken from the 21 May to the 24 June 2009. Results showed geographical variation in the density of marine debris which ranged from 0 to 405 pieces per hectare in the surveyed areas, plastics being the dominant components. Variability within sites was higher than between areas, indicating small-scale patchiness in the distribution of the debris over the seafloor. Though the study areas were within trawling grounds, the density of debris was not significantly correlated with fishing effort. More than 30% of plastics were between 10 and 20 cm width/length, and more than 40% of the plastics were colonized by a biofilm of microorganisms, suggesting indirect effects on benthic communities.
EL AMBIENTALISMO CHILENO: LA EMERGENCIA Y LA INSERCIÓN INTERNACIONAL
Authors: Ulianova Olga , Estenssoro Fernando
Published: May 2013

Este artículo analiza la emergencia de la problemática ambiental en el espacio social y político chileno de la mano del desarrollo de las Organizaciones No Gubernamentales como nuevas formas de la asociatividad y nuevos actores políticos. Se postula que estos procesos se desarrollan en el cruce de lo nacional y lo global en la historia chilena reciente y suponen nuevas formas de la inserción internacional, propias de estos nuevos actores y de las problemáticas que los convocan.
EL MERCOSUR Y EL PROCESO SUDAMERICANO ANTE LA SEGUNDA DÉCADA DEL SIGLO XXI. ¿HACIA UNA CONSOLIDACIÓN DEL NUEVO REGIONALISMO ESTRATÉGICO?
Authors: Bizzozero Revelez Lincoln
Published: May 2013

El artículo analiza la evolución de Mercado Común del Sur (Mercosur), su vinculación con la Unión de Naciones Sudamericanas (Unasur) en la primera década del siglo XXI y examina las bases sobre las que se asienta el regionalismo sudamericano. Para el análisis se plantean dos cuestiones relevantes para las relaciones internacionales y la economía política: las capacidades que tienen los Estados en el marco de los debates sobre la gobernanza mundial y la transición del sistema internacional y el papel del Estado en el desarrollo. Se considera que es necesario tomar distintos niveles de análisis que involucran al Estado como articulador entre el ámbito local-nacional y el regional, que a su vez potencia ese espacio al ámbito internacional y mundial. En ese sentido, la política internacional de Brasil, el eje estratégico con Argentina a nivel regional y el papel que juega en la articulación de esos niveles posibilitan visualizar las características y evolución del regionalismo sudamericano.
ImPact Test-Retest Reliability: Reliably Unreliable?
Authors: Resch Jacob , Driscoll Aoife , McCaffrey Noel , Brown Cathleen , Ferrara Michael S. , Macciocchi Stephen , Baumgartner Ted , Walpert Kimberly
Published: May 2013

Context:

Computerized neuropsychological testing is commonly used in the assessment and management of sport-related concussion. Even though computerized testing is widespread, psychometric evidence for test-retest reliability is somewhat limited. Additional evidence for test-retest reliability is needed to optimize clinical decision making after concussion.

Objective:

To document test-retest reliability for a commercially available computerized neuropsychological test battery (ImPACT) using 2 different clinically relevant time intervals.

Design:

Cross-sectional study.

Setting:

Two research laboratories.

Patients or Other Participants:

Group 1 (n = 46) consisted of 25 men and 21 women (age = 22.4 ± 1.89 years). Group 2 (n = 45) consisted of 17 men and 28 women (age = 20.9 ± 1.72 years).

Intervention(s):

Both groups completed ImPACT forms 1, 2, and 3, which were delivered sequentially either at 1-week intervals (group 1) or at baseline, day 45, and day 50 (group 2). Group 2 also completed the Green Word Memory Test (WMT) as a measure of effort.

Main Outcome Measures:

Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs) were calculated for the composite scores of ImPACT between time points. Repeated-measures analysis of variance was used to evaluate changes in ImPACT and WMT results over time.

Results:

The ICC values for group 1 ranged from 0.26 to 0.88 for the 4 ImPACT composite scores. The ICC values for group 2 ranged from 0.37 to 0.76. In group 1, ImPACT classified 37.0% and 46.0% of healthy participants as impaired at time points 2 and 3, respectively. In group 2, ImPACT classified 22.2% and 28.9% of healthy participants as impaired at time points 2 and 3, respectively.

Conclusions:

We found variable test-retest reliability for ImPACT metrics. Visual motor speed and reaction time demonstrated greater reliability than verbal and visual memory. Our current data support a multifaceted approach to concussion assessment using clinical examinations, symptom reports, cognitive testing, and balance assessment.
Association of psychiatric co.morbidity and efficacy of treatment in chronic daily headache in Indian population
Authors: Singh Ajai Kumar , Shukla Rakesh , Trivedi Jitendra Kumar , Singh Deepti
Published: May 2013

Objective: To study the prevalence of psychiatric co‑morbidity in patients of chronic daily headache (CDH) and compare the efficacy of treatment between various type of headache associated with psychiatric co‑morbidity. Materials and Methods: Prospective case control cohort study, 92 consecutive patients of CDH meeting eligibility criteria. The diagnosis of various subtypes of CDH was made according to the IHS criteria. Age, sex, educational, marital and socioeconomic status, matched controls were also selected. Patients were evaluated with the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI) scale at the time of enrolment and at 3 months. Results: CDH accounted for 28% of all headache patients. The mean age of presentation was 30.2 ± 10.3 years, male: Female ratio of 28:64 and mean duration of 4.56 ± 0.56 years. Chronic migraine (CM) accounted for 59 patients, chronic tension type headache (CTTH) 22 patients, new daily persistent headache (NDPH) 3 patients and miscellaneous 8 patients. Psychiatric co‑morbidity was present in 53.3% patients with CDH, and was more common in CM (62.7%) as compared to CTTH (36.4%). Single psychiatric co‑morbidity was seen in 26 patients, while 23 patients had multiple co‑morbidity. Major depressive episode, anxiety disorder, agoraphobia and dysthymia were significant psychiatric co‑morbidities. Patients with CM were treated with topiramate or divalproex sodium ER and CTTH were treated with amitriptyline. 55 patients came for follow up at 3 months, improvement in headache was seen in 29 patients. Conclusion: Psychiatric co‑morbidity was present in more than 50% patients with CDH and its presence along with a duration of ≥2 years was associated with a poor response to treatment.
Infratentorial subdural empyemas mimicking pyogenic meningitis
Authors: Gupta Anurag , Karanth Suman S , Raja A
Published: May 2013

Infratentorial subdural empyema is an extremely rare condition which unfortunately mimics pyogenic meningitis in 75% of cases. While an ill‑planned lumbar puncture in these cases may be fatal, an inadvertent delay in treatment may be detrimental to the outcome for the patient. We present a case of a young boy with long standing history of chronic suppurative otitis media (CSOM) presenting with an infratentorial empyema with features suggestive of pyogenic meningitis. We also review the available literature to further define the condition in terms of clinical features, treatment options, and outcome. A misdiagnosis of this condition with failure to institute appropriate surgical intervention and antibiotic therapy is potentially life threatening. We highlight this rare condition which requires a high degree of suspicion especially in the presence of associated risk factors.
Deletion pattern in the dystrophin gene in Duchenne muscular dystrophy patients in northeast India
Authors: Basumatary Lakshya J , Das Marami , Goswami Munindra , Kayal Ashok K
Published: May 2013

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is an X‑linked recessive disorder that affects 1 in 3,500 males and is caused by mutations in the dystrophin gene. In this paper, we have reported DNA analysis of DMD patients by multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) from various states of northeast India. Of the 69 clinically suspected patients of DMD, deletion was detected by multiplex PCR in 49 (71%) patients. Majority of the deletions (42/49, 85.7%) were located at distal hot spot region that encompasses exons 44-55 and 14.3% of the deletions were located at the proximal hot spot region (exons 2-19). In this study population, the deletion rate was 71% and was more frequent in the distal end exon.
Appearances of von Meyenburg Complex on Cross Sectional Imaging
Authors: Lung Phillip F. C. , Jaffer Ounali S. , Akbar Nuzhat , Sidhu Paul S. , Ryan Suzanne M.
Published: May 2013

The von Meyenburg complex (VMC) is an uncommon congenital malformation and is characterized by benign bile duct hamartomas. These are usually discovered incidentally and may represent a diagnostic dilemma when liver metastases are suspected. MRI of VMC shows distinct imaging characteristics, but reporting of lesional contrast enhancement has been inconsistent, whilst microbubble contrast enhanced ultrasound provides ‘real-time’ evaluation of soft tissue vascularity. Given the diagnostic uncertainty over imaging in VMC, biopsy is often recommended as the definitive diagnosis. We report a biopsy proven case of VMC on a background of primary colonic malignancy investigated with ultrasound, contrast enhanced ultrasound, computed tomography CT, and magnetic resonance imaging MRI, and review the key imaging features.
Application of Recombinant Gnathostoma spinigerum Matrix Metalloproteinase-Like Protein for Serodiagnosis of Human Gnathostomiasis by Immunoblotting
Authors: Janwan Penchom , Intapan Pewpan M. , Yamasaki Hiroshi , Laummaunwai Porntip , Sawanyawisuth Kittisak , Wongkham Chaisiri , Tayapiwatana Chatchai , Kitkhuandee Amnat , Lulitanond Viraphong , Nawa Yukifumi , Maleewong Wanchai
Published: May 2013

Matrix metalloproteinase (MMPs) is the extracellular zinc-dependent endopeptidase and is secreted for degrading extracellular matrix molecules of host tissues. A cDNA encoding MMP-like protein of Gnathostoma spinigerum larvae was amplified by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, and was cloned into a prokaryotic expression vector, and expressed in Escherichia coli. Total immunoglobulin G class (total IgG) antibody responses to the recombinant MMP-like protein were analyzed by immunoblot diagnosis of human gnathostomiasis. Serum samples from proven and clinically suspected cases of gnathostomiasis, other parasitic diseases patients, and from healthy volunteers were tested. The immunoblotting gave high sensitivity (100%) and specificity (94.7%). Positive and negative predictive values were 85.4% and 100%, respectively. Recombinant MMP-like protein can be used as a diagnostic antigen and potentially replace native parasite antigens to develop a gnathostomiasis diagnostic kit.
The Effectiveness of Educational Interventions to Enhance the Adoption of Fee-Based Arsenic Testing in Bangladesh: A Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: George Christine Marie , Inauen Jennifer , Rahman Sheikh Masudur , Zheng Yan
Published: May 2013

Arsenic (As) testing could help 22 million people, using drinking water sources that exceed the Bangladesh As standard, to identify safe sources. A cluster randomized controlled trial was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of household education and local media in the increasing demand for fee-based As testing. Randomly selected households (N = 452) were divided into three interventions implemented by community workers: 1) fee-based As testing with household education (HE); 2) fee-based As testing with household education and a local media campaign (HELM); and 3) fee-based As testing alone (Control). The fee for the As test was US$ 0.28, higher than the cost of the test (US$ 0.16). Of households with untested wells, 93% in both intervention groups HE and HELM purchased an As test, whereas only 53% in the control group. In conclusion, fee-based As testing with household education is effective in the increasing demand for As testing in rural Bangladesh.
Laboratory Diagnosis and Genotype Identification of Scrub Typhus from Pinggu District, Beijing, 2008 and 2010
Authors: Li Weihong , Dou Xiangfeng , Zhang Liqin , Lyu Yanning , Du Zhizhong , Tian Lili , Zhang Xiuchun , Sun Yulan , Guan Zengzhi , Chen Lijuan , Li Xinyu , Wang Quanyi
Published: May 2013

This study was conducted to determine the diagnosis and genotype of Orientia tsutsugamushi in Pinggu district, Beijing. Indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA) was performed to detect O. tsutsugamushi-specific immunoglobulin M (IgM) and immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies. Nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and DNA sequencing analysis targeting the O. tsutsugamushi-specific groEL gene and 56 kDa protein gene were performed on whole-blood samples from scrub typhus patients. We confirmed that 47 patients were infected with scrub typhus in Pinggu district, Beijing. Representative sequences amplified by primers according to the groEL gene (BJ-PG-2008; GenBank accession No. JQ894502) and the 56 kDa protein gene (PG-56kDa; GenBank accession No. JX843795) both clustered with Kawasaki. PG-56kDa had sequence homology of 100% with TADY12-0308, shandong-XDM2, Neimeng-90, and sdu-1 and sequence homology of 96% with Kawasaki, Taguchi, Oishi, and Kanda. We confirmed the genotype of O. tsutsugamushi in Pinggu district, Beijing, as Kawasaki, and the patient in 2008 confirmed in this study was the first patient with confirmed scrub typhus in Beijing.
Monoclonal Antibody-Based Immunofluorescence Microscopy for the Rapid Identification of Burkholderia pseudomallei in Clinical Specimens
Authors: Tandhavanant Sarunporn , Wongsuvan Gumphol , Wuthiekanun Vanaporn , Teerawattanasook Nittaya , Day Nicholas P. J. , Limmathurotsakul Direk , Peacock Sharon J. , Chantratita Narisara
Published: May 2013

The diagnosis of melioidosis depends on the culture of Burkholderia pseudomallei, which takes at least 48 hours. We used a polyclonal-FITC-based immunofluorescence microscopic assay (Pab-IFA) on clinical samples to provide a rapid presumptive diagnosis. This has limitations including photobleaching and batch-to-batch variability. This study evaluated an IFA based on a monoclonal antibody specific to B. pseudomallei (Mab-IFA) and Alexa Fluor 488. A diagnostic evaluation was performed on a prospective cohort of 951 consecutive patients with suspected melioidosis. A total of 1,407 samples were tested. Test accuracy was defined against culture as the gold standard, and was also compared against Pab-IFA. A total of 88 samples from 64 patients were culture positive for B. pseudomallei. The diagnostic sensitivity and specificity of the Mab-IFA was comparable to the Pab-IFA (48.4% versus 45.3% for sensitivity, and 99.8% versus 98.8% for specificity). We have incorporated the Mab-IFA into our routine practice.
Net radiative forcing and air quality responses to regional CO emission reductions
Authors: Fry M. M. , Schwarzkopf M. D. , Adelman Z. , Naik V. , Collins W. J. , West J. J.
Published: May 2013

Abstract. Carbon monoxide (CO) emissions influence global and regional air quality and global climate change by affecting atmospheric oxidants and secondary species. We simulate the influence of halving anthropogenic CO emissions globally and individually from 10 regions on surface and tropospheric ozone, methane, and aerosol concentrations using a global chemical transport model (MOZART-4 for the year 2005). Net radiative forcing (RF) is then estimated using the GFDL (Geophysical Fluid Dynamics Laboratory) standalone radiative transfer model. We estimate that halving global CO emissions decreases global annual average concentrations of surface ozone by 0.45 ppbv, tropospheric methane by 73 ppbv, and global annual net RF by 36.1 mW m−2, nearly equal to the sum of changes from the 10 regional reductions. Global annual net RF per unit change in emissions and the 100 yr global warming potential (GWP100) are estimated as −0.124 mW m−2 (Tg CO)−1 and 1.34, respectively, for the global CO reduction, and ranging from −0.115 to −0.131 mW m−2 (Tg CO)−1 and 1.26 to 1.44 across 10 regions, with the greatest sensitivities for regions in the tropics. The net RF distributions show widespread cooling corresponding to the O3 and CH4 decreases, and localized positive and negative net RFs due to changes in aerosols. The strongest annual net RF impacts occur within the tropics (28° S–28° N) followed by the northern midlatitudes (28° N–60° N), independent of reduction region, while the greatest changes in surface CO and ozone concentrations occur within the reduction region. Some regional reductions strongly influence the air quality in other regions, such as East Asia, which has an impact on US surface ozone that is 93% of that from North America. Changes in the transport of CO and downwind ozone production clearly exceed the direct export of ozone from each reduction region. The small variation in CO GWPs among world regions suggests that future international climate agreements could adopt a globally uniform metric for CO with little error, or could use different GWPs for each continent. Doing so may increase the incentive to reduce CO through coordinated policies addressing climate and air quality.