bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Editorial – Special Issue on Collaboration Support Systems (CSS)
Authors: Ko H.S. , Nof S. Y.
Published: January 2016

Recent and emerging advances in computer and information science and technology have realized a powerful computing and communication environment. It enables effective interactions and collaboration among groups of people and systems (and systems-of-systems) beyond traditional restrictions of time and space. The evolution in hardware (e.g., pervasive computing devices, wireless sensor networks, nano-electronics) and software (e.g., multi-agent systems, workflow and information integration, interaction models and protocols) technology, and their flexible teaming have further enabled diverse forms of collaboration approaches. It has been observed during the last few decades that numerous collaboration methodologies, tools and applications in various domains have emerged to provide better quality services, helping to solve domain-specific, highly complex problems. The development of collaboration tools and methodologies has increased the domain knowledge that can be discovered and shared by individuals, and the level and intensity of interactions and collaboration that can dramatically decrease problem complexity and increase solution quality. At the same time, inefficient interactions, task and information overloads, and ineffective collaboration are prevalent.
Specific distribution of lichens on Dodonaea viscosa L. in the restinga area of Itapuã State Park in Southern Brazil
Authors: Martins Suzana M. de A. , Marcelli Marcelo P.
Published: January 2016

The results of the specific distribution of lichens sampled on 30 small Dodonaea viscosa L. trees located in a restinga area on the banks of Lagoa Negra in Itapuã State Park, Rio Grande do Sul, State are presented. The difference in species diversity among the habitats was proved through similarity tests. The twig was the habitat that has presented the greatest floristic differentiation and the branches were similar to the trunks. Lichen communities vary depending on habitat conditioned to the bark roughness, which changes according to the age of the substrate.
Cathepsin D in Podocytes Is Important in the Pathogenesis of Proteinuria and CKD
Authors: Yamamoto-Nonaka Kanae , Koike Masato , Asanuma Katsuhiko , Takagi Miyuki , Oliva Trejo Juan Alejandro , Seki Takuto , Hidaka Teruo , Ichimura Koichiro , Sakai Tatsuo , Tada Norihiro , Ueno Takashi , Uchiyama Yasuo , Tomino Yasuhiko
Published: January 2016

Studies have revealed many analogies between podocytes and neurons, and these analogies may be key to elucidating the pathogenesis of podocyte injury. Cathepsin D (CD) is a representative aspartic proteinase in lysosomes. Central nervous system neurons in CD-deficient mice exhibit a form of lysosomal storage disease with a phenotype resembling neuronal ceroid lipofuscinoses. In the kidney, the role of CD in podocytes has not been fully explored. Herein, we generated podocyte–specific CD–knockout mice that developed proteinuria at 5 months of age and ESRD by 20–22 months of age. Immunohistochemical analysis of these mice showed apoptotic podocyte death followed by proteinuria and glomerulosclerosis with aging. Using electron microscopy, we identified, in podocytes, granular osmiophilic deposits (GRODs), autophagosome/autolysosome-like bodies, and fingerprint profiles, typical hallmarks of CD-deficient neurons. CD deficiency in podocytes also led to the cessation of autolysosomal degradation and accumulation of proteins indicative of autophagy impairment and the mitochondrial ATP synthase subunit c accumulation in the GRODs, again similar to changes reported in CD-deficient neurons. Furthermore, both podocin and nephrin, two essential components of the slit diaphragm, translocated to Rab7– and lysosome–associated membrane glycoprotein 1–positive amphisomes/autolysosomes that accumulated in podocyte cell bodies in podocyte–specific CD–knockout mice. We hypothesize that defective lysosomal activity resulting in foot process effacement caused this accumulation of podocin and nephrin. Overall, our results suggest that loss of CD in podocytes causes autophagy impairment, triggering the accumulation of toxic subunit c–positive lipofuscins as well as slit diaphragm proteins followed by apoptotic cell death.
The 7T-MPW-EDDI beamline at BESSY II
Authors: Klaus Manuela , Garcia-Moreno Francisco
Published: January 2016

The materials science beamline EDDI is operated in the Energy Dispersive DIffraction mode and provides hard synchrotron X-rays in an energy range between about 8 … 150 keV for a multitude of experiments reaching from the in-situ study of thin film deposition over the investigation of liquid phase processes to the analysis of the residual stress distribution in complex components and technical parts. For high temperature experiments or measurements under external mechanical load various devices such as heating stations and a tensile/compression load test rig are available. Besides the sample environment for pure diffraction experiments a tomography/radiography setup is provided which allows for combined simultaneous diffraction plus imaging investigations.
Occurrence of radial club hand in children with different syndromes
Authors: Avdeichik Natalia Valerievna , Govorov Anton Vladimirovich , Golyana Sergei Ivanovich , Safonov Andrey Valerievich
Published: January 2016

Aim. Clinical analysis of congenital radial club hand as part of some genetic syndromes as well as the optimization of methods of non-surgical and surgical treatment of patients with this pathology. Material and Methods. From 2007 to 2014, we conducted a survey of 170 children with congenital radial club hand. Among them, 32 patients were diagnosed (18.8%) with different syndromes. We assessed the degree to which the radius was underdeveloped among this group of patients as well as the management features of patients according to various comorbidities. Results. The assessment identified Holt-Oram syndrome in 17 children (nine boys and eight girls; 53.1%) and TAR-syndrome in nine children (four boys and five girls; 28.1%). VACTERL syndrome was detected in four male patients (12.5%) and Nagera syndrome was observed in two children (one boy and one girl; 6.25%). Surgical treatment of radial club hand in patients with genetic syndromes is the same as that of the patients with isolated congenital radial club hand: a single- or two-stage correction of the hand relative to the ulna with subsequent reconstruction of the rays of the hand. The duration of treatment of such patients did not significantly differ compared to the patients with isolated congenital radial club hand. Conclusion. Congenital radial club hand, identified as part of genetic syndromes, requires a comprehensive examination to diagnose comorbidities, observation, and treatment by specialists to determine the optimal age for surgical correction of the existing strain of the upper limb.
A Survey on Information Need and Information Seeking Behavior of Library Users of NRN Memorial National Law Library
Authors: Yaranal Mahesh A. , Ramesha
Published: January 2016

The present paper is based on a survey conducted on the information needs and information seeking behavior of library users of NRN Memorial National Law Library, National Law School of India University, Bangalore. The survey was conducted recently and the paper points out the changing information needs of the users. The usefulness of collection and services of the library and also examined the various types of collections and services are being used by the individual users of the national library. Identified the various infrastructure facilities are being provided by the library. Finally measures to be taken to make library services more effective and efficient.
The factor VIII protein and its function.
Authors: Mazurkiewicz-Pisarek Anna , Płucienniczak Grażyna , Ciach Tomasz , Płucienniczak Andrzej
Published: January 2016

Factor VIII (FVIII), an essential blood coagulation protein, is a key component of the fluid phase blood coagulation system. Human factor VIII is a single chain of about 300 kDa consisting of domains described as A1-A2-B-A3-C1-C2. The protein undergoes processing prior to secretion into blood resulting in a heavy chain of 200 kDa (A1-A2-B) and a light chain of 80 kDa (A3-C1-C2) linked by metal ions. The role of factor VIII is to increase the catalytic efficiency of factor IXa in the activation of factor X. Variants of these factors lead frequently also to severe bleeding disorders.
Contemporary procedures for age-related macular degeneration
Authors: Kubiaczyk Matylda , Misiuk-Hojło Marta
Published: January 2016

Zwyrodnienie plamki związane z wiekiem (age-related macular degeneration – AMD) jest chorobą degeneracyjną plamki, prowadzącą do centralnego upośledzenia widzenia u osób powyżej 50 roku życia. Wczesne stadia AMD charakteryzują się wystąpieniem druzów i nieprawidłowości nabłonka barwnikowego w siatkówce. Późne stadia zwyrodnienia, postaci suchej i wysiękowej, to zanik geograficzny i neowaskularyzacja naczyniówkowa. Patogeneza choroby jest nadal nieznana ze względu na jej wieloczynnikowy mechanizm. Jako czynniki ryzyka wymienia się wiek, płeć, rasę, uwarunkowania genetyczne, ekspozycję na UV, choroby układu sercowo-naczyniowego, palenie papierosów, niedobór antyoksydantów. Leczenie przyczynowe nie jest znane. W odpowiednio dobranych przypadkach stosuje się fotokoagulację laserową, terapię fotodynamiczną, termoterapię przezźreniczną, iniekcje doszklistkowe preparatów anty-VEGF oraz metody chirurgiczne. Nowością w USA jest możliwość wszczepiania miniaturowgo teleskopu w celu poprawy widzenia w schyłkowej postaci zwyrodnienia plamki. W fazie badań klinicznych są preparaty do stosowania miejscowego oraz terapia z użyciem komórek macierzystych. W ostatnim dwudziestoleciu, obszerne badania doprowadziły do znaczącego postępu zarówno w diagnostyce, jak i leczeniu AMD.
Effect of milking behavior on circulatory hormones and milk production in lactating Murrah buffaloes
Authors: Singh Mahendra , Aggarwal Anjali , Mallick S.
Published: January 2016

The effect of milking temperament on plasma hormones, metabolites, milk yield and composition in lactating Murrah buffaloes was studied. Animals were selected from the institute herd and grouped as docile and nervous buffaloes, based on temperament score before and during milking. Blood sampling times were; before milking (-20 min.), after concentrate intake, after teat massage, during milking and 20 min. post- milking. Plasma prolactin (PRL), growth hormone (GH) and cortisol (CORT) concentrations were measured by enzyme-immunoassay procedures. Milk yields of individual buffaloes were recorded and milk composition (fat, protein, lactose, SNF, SCC) determined. Milk yield was significantly lower (P<0.05) in nervous buffaloes in comparison to docile buffaloes. Mean fat, protein, lactose and SNF varied non-significantly between the groups. Milk SCC and plasma NEFA concentration was more (P<0.05) in nervous buffaloes than in docile buffaloes. Milking temperament significantly influenced plasma PRL (P<0.01) and CORT release (P<0.05) but GH was unaffected. Concentrate feeding prior to milking induced release of plasma PRL and CORT without affecting GH and oxytocin levels. Teat stimulus further enhanced release of PRL, oxytocin and CORT hormone in both the groups. Plasma PRL, cortisol, oxytocin and GH varied significantly (P<0.01) before, during and after milking (P<0.01). Basal PRL, GH and CORT were attained 20 minutes after the completion of milking in both the groups. The results show that the behavior of buffaloes at milking influenced release of galactopoietic hormones (PRL, CORT, GH and oxytocin), milk yield and SCC, while milk fat, protein, lactose and SNF remain unaffected.
Mother’s Beliefs, Attitudes, and Decision Making Related to Infant Feeding Choices
Authors: Radzyminski Sharon , Callister Lynn Clark
Published: January 2016

All mothers at some point make a decision about whether to breast- or formula feed their infant. Marital status, education, age, culture, and confidence have all been identified as variables affecting this decision. Previous research has concentrated on the decision-making process in breastfeeding mothers. This qualitative descriptive study investigated the beliefs, attitudes, and decisions of both breast- and formula-feeding mothers. Four categories were identified influencing maternal decision making: (a) infant nutritional benefits, (b) maternal benefits, (c) knowledge about infant feeding, and (d) personal and professional support. Analysis of the data indicated that mothers differed in their choice depending on whether they were infant- or maternal-centered and that most women combine both methods of feeding.
Access, Use, and Preferences for Technology-Based Perinatal and Breastfeeding Support Among Childbearing Women
Authors: Demirci Jill Radtke , Cohen Susan M. , Parker Maris , Holmes Ashleigh , Bogen Debra L.
Published: January 2016

We surveyed 146 postpartum women who birthed at 34–37 6/7 weeks of gestation and intended to breastfeed about their use of and preferences regarding technology to obtain perinatal and breastfeeding support. Most participants owned smartphones and used technology during pregnancy to track pregnancy data, follow fetal development, address pregnancy concerns, and obtain breastfeeding information. Internet, e-mail, apps, and multiplatform resources were the most popular technologies used and preferred. Demographic differences existed in mobile technology access and preferences for different technologies. In terms of technology-based breastfeeding support, women wanted encouragement, anticipatory guidance, and information about milk production. A nuanced understanding of the technology childbearing women use and desire has the potential to impact clinical care and inform perinatal support interventions.
Coercive Control, Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, and Depression Among Homeless Women
Authors: Levine Amanda R. , Fritz Patti A. Timmons
Published: January 2016

Intimate relationships involving psychological abuse, particularly those characterized by coercive control (CC), a pattern of behaviors aimed at gaining control over one’s romantic partner, have been associated with poorer mental health for victims than among victims of physical partner abuse alone (Johnson & Leone, 2005). This study investigated whether CC predicted posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression above and beyond the effects of childhood maltreatment and frequency and severity of physical partner abuse among a sample of homeless women. This is the first known study to date to investigate the role of CC in the partner abuse experiences of homeless women. Fifty-one ethnically diverse women with a history of partner abuse victimization residing in a homeless shelter in Southwest Ontario, Canada, completed questionnaires assessing partner abuse, CC, depression, and PTSD. As predicted, CC was found to predict PTSD but not depression, after controlling for childhood maltreatment and frequency and severity of physical partner abuse. In addition, women exhibited very high rates of both PTSD and depression. The relation between CC and mental health of victims, particularly the development of PTSD, should be considered in partner abuse prevention programs and interventions. Furthermore, the high rates of psychopathology reported by the women indicate a great need for psychological aid among women residing in homeless shelters.
Intrathoracic Glenohumeral Dislocation without Fracture of the Humerus
Authors: Lin Clifford , Mollon Brent , Scott Caroline , Brady Philip , Axelrod Terry S. , Jenkinson Richard J.
Published: January 2016

Case:

A fifty-three-year-old man presented with an intrathoracic glenohumeral dislocation (ITGHD) and associated hemothorax, rib fracture, massive rotator cuff tear, and axillary nerve palsy following an ice hockey injury. Treatment consisted of closed reduction and staged open rotator cuff repair. Despite a substantial injury, the patient recovered nearly normal use of the arm two years postoperatively.

Conclusion:

ITGHD is an extremely rare entity. This injury should be managed by a multidisciplinary team with anticipation of associated thoracic and vascular injuries. In cases with repairable pathology (e.g., an acute rotator cuff tear), good functional outcomes can be obtained.
Bernese Periacetabular Osteotomy in a Young Adult with an Ipsilateral Renal Transplant
Authors: Collado Diego , Sallent Andrea , Seijas Roberto , Aguirre-Canyadell Marius , Ganz Reinhold
Published: January 2016

Case:

An eighteen-year-old woman was referred to our center because of left groin pain and was diagnosed with acetabular dysplasia. The proposed treatment was a Bernese periacetabular osteotomy (PAO). The patient had undergone two renal transplants due to polycystic kidney disease; the current, functional kidney was at the lateral inguinal fossa on the left side. The patient was on chronic immunosuppressants and antihypertensive therapy.

Conclusion:

The present case shows that PAO can be a safe procedure with good outcomes even in patients who have undergone renal transplantation.
Rough Rice and Milling Yields as Affected by Nitrogen, Harvest Moisture, and Cultivar
Authors: Rogers Christopher W. , Norman Richard J. , Siebenmorgen Terry J. , Grigg Brandon C. , Hardke Jarrod T. , Brye Kristofor R. , Gbur Edward E.
Published: January 2016

Improvements in rice (Oryza sativa L.) production in the mid‐south United States have been made through advances in N management, harvest strategies, and cultivar selection. Efficient fertilizer‐N management is important for producing large yields. Harvest moisture content (HMC) affects grain quality [i.e., milled rice yield (MRY) and head rice yield (HRY)], as harvesting above or below optimum HMC results in decreased milling yields. Research was conducted from 2011 to 2013 investigating rough rice and milling yields as affected by fertilizer‐N application (0, 45, 90, 135, and 180 kg N ha−1), HMC (high, medium, and low), and cultivar (‘Cheniere’, ‘CLXL745’, and ‘Wells’). Maximum rough rice yields of 8916, 10,263, and 9353 kg ha−1 were calculated at N rates of 135, 149, and 146 kg N ha−1 for Cheniere, CLXL745, and Wells, respectively. At N rates to achieve maximum rough rice yield, MRY and HRY were 98 to 99.9% of the maximum milling yield within a cultivar‐HMC combination, excluding Wells harvested at low HMC. Within a cultivar–HMC combination, HRYs were <1 to 25% points greater at the maximum HRY–producing N rate than the minimum. Nitrogen rates needed to maximize rough rice yield and harvesting at high and medium HMC lead to near‐maximum HRYs; however, harvest at low N rates and HMC reduced HRY, particularly for CLXL745 and Wells. Further research focused on other hybrid and pure‐line rice cultivars will ensure that the current data are consistent for a wide range of cultivars.
Long‐Term Effects of Fertilizer and Organic Matter Application on Millet in Niger
Authors: Suzuki Kanako , Matsunaga Ryoichi , Hayashi Keiichi , Matsumoto Naruo , Tobita Satoshi , Bationo André , Okada Kensuke
Published: January 2016

The production of pearl millet [Pennisetumn glaucum (L.) R. Br.] in the low fertility sandy soils of the Sahel region of northern sub‐Saharan Africa requires careful management. An experiment was established in 1993 at the Niamey Center of the International Crops Research Institute for the Semi‐Arid Tropics, Niger. The objectives were to (i) determine the effect of long‐term applications of fertilizer, crop residue, cattle manure, and combinations of these on changes in grain yield (GY) and total dry matter (TDM) of pearl millet; (ii) determine the effect of management on nitrogen application efficiency (NAE) and nitrogen use efficiency (NUE), using data from 1998 and also from 2005 and 2006. Fertilizer use showed significant positive effects on GY and TDM from 1998 to 2006. The positive effects of organic matter appeared rather later, that is, around 8 yr after the start of the experiment. The GY and TDM were strongly affected by N and P but not K. From 1998 to 2000, N‐fertilizer strongly affected GY and TDM, but TDM increased gradually with the total amount N application, including N from organic matter. Nitrogen uptake by pearl millet was similar among treatments except for control in 2005, but in 2006 was higher in the treatments that combined fertilizer and organic matter. The NAE in combined applications of fertilizer and crop residue, and NUE in the treatments with residue showed higher trends than other treatments. This suggested that residue had more potential than cattle manure to enhance the effect of fertilizer.
Evaluation of the CSM‐CROPGRO‐Canola Model for Simulating Canola Growth and Yield at West Nipissing in Eastern Canada
Authors: Jing Qi , Shang Jiali , Qian Budong , Hoogenboom Gerrit , Huffman Ted , Liu Jiangui , Ma Bao‐Luo , Geng Xiaoyuan , Jiao Xianfeng , Kovacs John , Walters Dan
Published: January 2016

With increasing demands for renewable energy and dietary vegetable oils, the production of canola has become widespread in recent years. Modeling canola growth and yield is a helpful approach to predict canola responses to various environments, especially under climate change. However, few studies have been performed for predicting growth and yield of canola in Canada. In this study, we evaluated the CSM‐CROPGRO‐Canola model in Decision Support System for Agrotechnology Transfer v4.6 for simulating spring canola at West Nipissing in Eastern Canada. The model was evaluated using plant and soil data collected from field experiments over three growing seasons (2012–2014). The model could predict the observed crop development and successfully mimic the characteristics of canola regarding light absorption and utilization using combinations of leaves and pods. The accumulations of aboveground biomass were satisfactorily simulated in the life cycle under different nitrogen (N) fertilizer application rates, with a normalized RMSE of 19%. The seed yields were successfully predicted with different N application rates except for an underestimation under zero N application. The underestimation of yield under low N rates was possibly related to the deficiency in the simulated N mineralization that could also be associated with inaccurate input soil data. A better simulation of seed yields under low N application was achieved when the soil organic matter module based on the CENTURY model was used in DSSAT v4.6. The calibrated model simulated soil moisture and inorganic N contents satisfactorily, showing a good performance of the CSM‐CROPGRO‐Canola model for the study region.
Simulating the impact of roads on hydrological responses: examples from Swedish terrain
Authors: Nickman Alireza , Lyon Steve W. , Jansson Per-Erik , Olofsson Bo
Published: January 2016

In this study, the potential impacts of road topography on hydrologic responses at the watershed scale were simulated. The method considered used a geographic information system to identify road embankment locations and subsequently remove them from the baseline elevation data. Starting from both the ‘with’ and ‘without’ road elevation model, the surface and near-surface hydrological responses for 20 watersheds in Sweden were modeled in HEC-HMS under three different storm intensities. Flow duration curves (FDCs) were used to compare hydrologic responses for the different modeling scenarios under the various storm intensities. Specifically, L-moment ratios of the FDCs were calculated and their variation compared. Results showed an increase in peak flow amounts and reduction in time to peak with increased storm intensity. In addition, variations of the L-moment ratios were larger in larger watersheds. However, the impact of the roads on the modeled hydrologic responses was much smaller than anticipated and only identifiable through detailed examination of the L-moment statistical descriptors. Our findings not only highlight the potential impacts of road topography on watershed-scale hydrology (especially concerning high intensity storms) but also provide a methodology for detecting the even rather small changes that could manifest, for example, under coupled road network and climatic changes.
Regionalisation of the parameters of the rainfall–runoff model PQRUT
Authors: Filipova Valeriya , Lawrence Deborah , Klempe Harald
Published: January 2016

This paper presents the regionalisation of the three parameter event-based PQRUT model, which is used for design flood analyses. The PQRUT model is used for the analysis of peak flows for which a sub-daily temporal resolution is required. The availability of high-resolution discharge data and disaggregated precipitation data have made it possible to re-evaluate the regional regression equations currently in use. We also assess whether the model parameters show spatial dependency. Event-based calibration was performed for the 45 highest flood events for each of 55 selected catchments across Norway, representing peak flows generated predominantly by rainfall. Due to the geographical heterogeneity of most areas in Norway, a statistically significant homogeneous region was only identified for catchments in southeastern Norway. Multiple linear regression and weighted regression were, therefore, used to develop a single set of equations, applicable to the entire country. The results for the weighted regression indicate a decrease in the median Kling–Gupta efficiency from 0.64 to 0.51 for calibration and regionalisation, respectively. The results also suggest that regression methods may perform better than methods based on spatial proximity in regions with varying topography when a parsimonious model is used.
Splash-like marine biodiversity additions after the cambrian
Authors: Ruban Dmitry
Published: January 2016

Some Phanerozoic biotic radiations in the marine realm led to marine
biodiversity additions, i.e., increases in the global number of genera to
unprecedented levels. Each of the two alternative biodiversity curves implies
five post-Cambrian events of this kind, which coincided with parts of the
biotic radiations. However, differences between these curves do not allow to
find coherent marine biodiversity additions with the only exception of those
occurred at the interval of the Great Ordovician Biodiversification. The
attempted interpretations indicate that the marine biodiversity additions
increased the number of marine genera by 10-30 % (from the previous
unprecedented level to that new). All additions were relatively brief and
occurred as splashes throughout the Phanerozoic. Peculiar intrinsic and
extrinsic factors, as well as the speed of diversification should be
considered when triggers of these events are looked for. Undoubtedly,
splash-like marine biodiversity additions played an important role in the
evolution of life in the sea, but a lot of research is required in order to
understand their true nature.
Intact Regulation of the AMPK Signaling Network in Response to Exercise and Insulin in Skeletal Muscle of Male Patients With Type 2 Diabetes: Illumination of AMPK Activation in Recovery From Exercise
Authors: Kjøbsted Rasmus , Pedersen Andreas J.T. , Hingst Janne R. , Sabaratnam Rugivan , Birk Jesper B. , Kristensen Jonas M. , Højlund Kurt , Wojtaszewski Jørgen F.P.
Published: January 2016

Current evidence on exercise-mediated AMPK regulation in skeletal muscle of patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) is inconclusive. This may relate to inadequate segregation of trimeric complexes in the investigation of AMPK activity. We examined the regulation of AMPK and downstream targets ACC-β, TBC1D1, and TBC1D4 in muscle biopsy specimens obtained from 13 overweight/obese patients with T2D and 14 weight-matched male control subjects before, immediately after, and 3 h after exercise. Exercise increased AMPK α2β2γ3 activity and phosphorylation of ACCβ Ser221, TBC1D1 Ser237/Thr596, and TBC1D4 Ser704. Conversely, exercise decreased AMPK α1β2γ1 activity and TBC1D4 Ser318/Thr642 phosphorylation. Interestingly, compared with preexercise, 3 h into exercise recovery, AMPK α2β2γ1 and α1β2γ1 activity were increased concomitant with increased TBC1D4 Ser318/Ser341/Ser704 phosphorylation. No differences in these responses were observed between patients with T2D and control subjects. Subjects were also studied by euglycemic-hyperinsulinemic clamps performed at rest and 3 h after exercise. We found no evidence for insulin to regulate AMPK activity. Thus, AMPK signaling is not compromised in muscle of patients with T2D during exercise and insulin stimulation. Our results reveal a hitherto unrecognized activation of specific AMPK complexes in exercise recovery. We hypothesize that the differential regulation of AMPK complexes plays an important role for muscle metabolism and adaptations to exercise.
An Apparent Deficiency of Lymphatic Capillaries in the Islets of Langerhans in the Human Pancreas
Authors: Korsgren Erik , Korsgren Olle
Published: January 2016

The lymphatic system is crucial for efficient immune surveillance and for the maintenance of a physiological pressure in the interstitial space. Even so, almost no information is available concerning the lymph drainage of the islets of Langerhans in the human pancreas. Immunohistochemical staining allowed us to distinguish lymphatic capillaries from blood capillaries. Almost no lymphatic capillaries were found within the islets in pancreatic biopsy specimens from subjects without diabetes or from subjects with type 1 or type 2 diabetes. Lymphatic capillaries were, however, found at the islet-exocrine interface, frequently located along blood capillaries and other fibrotic structures within or close to the islet capsule. Lymphatic capillaries were regularly found in the exocrine pancreas, with small lymphatic vessels located close to and around acini. Larger collecting lymphatic vessels were located in fibrotic septa between the exocrine lobules and adjacent to the ductal system of the pancreas. In summary, we report a pronounced deficiency of lymphatic capillaries in human islets, a finding with implications for immune surveillance and the regulation of interstitial fluid transport in the endocrine pancreas as well as for the pathophysiology of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
Diabetes-Associated Variation in TCF7L2 Is Not Associated With Hepatic or Extrahepatic Insulin Resistance
Authors: Varghese Ron T. , Viegas Ivan , Barosa Cristina , Marques Catia , Shah Meera , Rizza Robert A. , Jones John G. , Vella Adrian
Published: January 2016

A common genetic variation in TCF7L2 is associated with type 2 diabetes. However, the mechanism by which this occurs remains elusive. In addition to affecting insulin secretion, genetic variation at the TCF7L2 locus may alter insulin action or directly modify hepatic glucose metabolism. We sought to determine whether the diabetes-associated variant in this locus (the T allele of rs7903146) increases fasting endogenous glucose production (EGP), and impairs insulin-induced suppression of EGP and insulin-stimulated glucose disappearance. To address this, we studied individuals who were either homozygous for the diabetes-associated allele (TT) at rs7903146 or were homozygous for the protective allele (CC). Subjects were matched for other anthropometric characteristics and were studied using a euglycemic clamp. EGP and glucose uptake were measured using the tracer dilution technique, and the relative contribution of gluconeogenesis to EGP was quantitated using deuterated water corrected for transaldolase exchange. We report that the diabetes-associated variation in TCF7L2 did not associate with fasting EGP, insulin-induced suppression of EGP, and insulin-induced stimulation of glucose uptake. There was no association with the contribution of gluconeogenesis and glycogenolysis to EGP. These data indicate that genetic variation at TCF7L2 does not predispose an individual to type 2 diabetes by altering either hepatic or extrahepatic insulin action.
Assessment of Service Quality at Community Pharmacies in the City of Belgrade, Republic of Serbia / Procena Kvaliteta Usluge U Apotekama U Gradu Beogradu, Republika Srbija
Authors: Prokic Andjelka , Davidovic Mirjana , Gunjic Nenad
Published: January 2016

One of the principles of rational drug use is informing patients about their prescribed drug and its effects. A pharmacist has to contribute to safe and appropriate drug use and give patients adequate drug information. Service quality in pharmacies is examined by measuring drug use indicators provided by the World Health Organisation. Indicators relevant for pharmacies include patient care indicators and health facility indicators.

The goal of this paper is to measure indicators of drug use in both private and state-owned pharmacies.

Drug use indicators were measured prospectively in private and state-owned-owned pharmacies in Belgrade, Serbia. The study is designed as a cross-sectional study. The research was conducted withon 100 patients at each of 14 pharmacies, 7 of which were state-owned and 7 of which were private. Pharmacies were selected randomly.

Drug use indicators were not significantly different between private and state-owned pharmacies, except for their essential drugs lists. To improve pharmaceutical health care and achieve rational pharmacotherapy, all pharmacists should dedicate more time to patients.
Comparison of Self-report and Performance-Based Balance Measures for Predicting Recurrent Falls in People With Parkinson Disease: Cohort Study
Authors: Almeida Lorena R.S. , Valenca Guilherme T. , Negreiros Nádja N. , Pinto Elen B. , Oliveira-Filho Jamary
Published: January 2016

Background

Balance confidence and fear of falling are factors associated with recurrent falls in people with Parkinson disease (PD). However, the accuracy for predicting falls on the basis of self-report measures has not been widely investigated.

Objective

The study objectives were: (1) to compare the accuracy of the Activities-specific Balance Confidence Scale (ABC) and the Falls Efficacy Scale–International (FES-I) with that of the Berg Balance Scale (BBS), Dynamic Gait Index (DGI), Functional Reach Test (FRT), and Timed “Up & Go” Test (TUG) for predicting recurrent falls in people with PD and (2) to explore the ability of combinations of up to 3 tests to predict recurrent falls.

Design

This was a prospective cohort study involving 225 people with PD.

Methods

Participants were assessed with the ABC, FES-I, BBS, FRT, TUG, and DGI. Participants who reported 2 or more falls in the 12-month follow-up period were classified as recurrent fallers. Areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves were determined, and the Akaike information criterion was used to select the best predictive model.

Results

Eighty-four participants (37.3%) were classified as recurrent fallers. Areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves for the ABC, FES-I, TUG, FRT, DGI, and BBS were 0.73, 0.74, 0.72, 0.74, 0.76, and 0.79, respectively. Two-test models provided additional discriminating ability compared with individual measures and had Akaike information criterion values similar to those of 3-test models, particularly the combination of the BBS with the FES-I.

Limitations

The lack of an external validation sample was a limitation of this study.

Conclusions

The ABC and FES-I demonstrated moderate accuracy in predicting recurrent falls and a predictive ability similar to that of performance-based balance measures, especially the FRT and the TUG. Two-test models showed performance similar to that of 3-test models, suggesting that a combination of 2 measures may improve the ability to predict recurrent falls in people with PD. Specifically, the combination of the BBS with the FES-I may be considered.
Rights Share Issue Practice in Nepal
Authors: Pathak Hari Prasad , Giri Dhanesh
Published: January 2016

The study is focused on practice of rights offering in Nepal and its impact on share price movement. This study covers two interrelated aspects: (a) Characteristics of rights offering of listed companies and (b) Share price movement associated with rights offering. Nepal Finance and Saving Company Ltd. started the practice of rights share in Nepal by issuing right share for the first time in 1st December 1995. In this study, the rights share issue practice and impact of rights offering on market price of share have been analyzed by taking five rights issuing companies as sample. The findings of the study are not consistent with the theory of rights offering.Key Words: Rights share, share price movement, share price index (NEPSE index)The Journal of Nepalese Business Studies Vol. V, No. 1, 2008, December Page: 93-100
Tracing the Path to Universal Banking: The Indian Scenario
Authors: Goswami Chandana , Deb Nilanjana
Published: January 2016

In India, the Commercial Banking sector has been the dominant element in the country’s financial system and performed the key functions of providing liquidity and payment services to the real sector, and has accounted for bulk of the financial intermediation process. However, since early 1990s, the Indian banking sector has been subjected to various reform measures initiated by the Government at the backdrop of economy-wide structural adjustment programme and also in response to the unsatisfactory economic and qualitative performance of the Public Sector Banks owing to lack of competition, low capital base, low productivity and high intermediation cost.Financial sector reforms have uprooted many of the outdated regulatory fences within which banks were required to carry out their activities. This provided more liberty to banks and they started exploiting different areas of operation. Gradually, many of the banks, apart from their indigenous function i.e., banking, started having substantial interests in all sorts of financial businesses like insurance, funds management, mutual funds, securities trading etc. Eventually, such a bank acquired the status of Financial Conglomerate and slowly began moving towards Universal Banking framework. However, in this process, the risk exposure of banks increased further and also it has raised a question on what should be the effective regulatory system for monitoring such conglomerates.Therefore, an attempt is made to trace the path of transition of Indian banks towards Universal banking framework, their risk exposure, opportunities and challenges confronted in this process of transition and the regulatory system needed to monitor such entities.The Journal of Nepalese Business Studies Vol. Vii, No. 1, 2010-2011Page : 17-30Uploaded date: July 7, 2012
Insurance and Its Business in Nepal
Authors: Gurung Jas Bahadur
Published: January 2016

This study aims mainly to analyze the performance of insurance business in Nepal. The data used in this study is mainly quantitative and analysis has been carried out by using simple percentage and correlation coefficient. The study reveals that there are altogether 25 insurance companies viz. 8 life insurance and 16 non-life insurance and one offer both life and non-life services. They have altogether 340 branch offices in Nepal. The growth of insurance policies for both life and non-life insurance companies has been increasing and significant during the study period. Similarly, the progressive trend of premium collection reached to 48 percent for non-life and 37.06 percent for life insurance in FY 2066/67 and contributed 1.70 percent in GDP of the economy. Moreover, the investment of insurance companies has been positive but fluctuating over the period under study. However, the correlation coefficient between total premium collection and total investment is positive with r=0.97 and significant as its PE is only 0.0163. These facts reveal that the performance of insurance business in Nepal is satisfactory.The Journal of Nepalese Business Studies Vol. Vii, No. 1, 2010-2011Page : 70-79Uploaded date: July 8, 2012
First-principles Study of Electronic and Magnetic Properties of Manganese Decorated Graphene
Authors: Paudel Bishnu Prasad , Pantha Nurapati , Adhikari Narayan Prasad
Published: January 2016

The functionalization of graphene by the addition of Manganese (Mn) atom to its surface has been investigated computationally by using density-functional theory (DFT) based first-principles method within DFT-D2 level of approximations. The calculations have been computed employing the Quantum ESPRESSO codes. The stability, geometrical structures, electronic and magnetic properties of pure and Mn adatom graphene systems have been studied. From the information of adsorption energies of Mn atom on the different sites of graphene, the top site is found to be the most favorable one for its adsorption. Present study finds that the London dispersion interaction plays a major role in the weak binding of Mn on graphene. The study of electronic and magnetic properties of Mn decorated graphene shows that the conduction and valence band are overlapped with finite density of states (DOS) at Fermi level. The dissimilar DOS for up and down spin calculations quantify magnetic moment as 5.48 μB which is consistent with the previous study

Journal of Nepal Physical Society Vol.3(1) 2015: 24-34
The Fines and the Spies
Authors: Bozzini David
Published: January 2016

Since 2005, the Eritrean state has implemented measures against the increasing desertion of conscripts by retaliating against deserters' families. This article explores the fears spread by this measure in Eritrea and analyzes how people have interpreted its erratic enforcement, including in those countries to which deserters have fled in massive numbers to seek political asylum. The retaliation has served to 'export' fears about the Eritrean state's surveillance abroad and has reshaped political imagination concerning the power of the Eritrean authoritarian state in the diaspora. I argue that imaginings about the state play a crucial role by curbing the political dissidence of new exiles and by giving rise to new fault lines in the diaspora communities in ways that are beneficial to the current Eritrean leadership.
Living from the Nerves
Authors: Reeves Madeleine
Published: January 2016

While deportability has elicited interest as a legal predicament facing migrant workers, less attention has been given to the way in which this condition of temporal uncertainty shapes migrants' everyday encounters with state agents. Drawing on ethnography among Kyrgyzstani migrant workers in Moscow, I show that in conditions of documentary uncertainty 'legal residence' depends upon successfully enacting a right to the city and the personalization of the state. Alongside fear and suspicion, this space of legal uncertainty is characterized by a sense of abandon and awareness of the performativity of law. I explore 'living from the nerves' as an ethnographic reality for Kyrgyzstani migrant workers and as an analytic for developing a more variegated account of state power and its affective resonances in contemporary Russia.
Very late ischemic complications in flow-diverter stents: a retrospective analysis of a single-center series
Authors: Guédon Alexis , Clarençon Frédéric , Di Maria Federico , Rosso Charlotte , Biondi Alessandra , Gabrieli Joseph , Rojas Patricia , Chiras Jacques , Sourour Nader
Published: January 2016

OBJECTIVE

The authors evaluate the rate and discuss the pathomechanisms of very late (≥ 4-month) ischemic complications after flow-diverter stent (FDS) placement for intracranial aneurysms.

METHODS

The authors retrospectively reviewed the clinical data of the patients treated at Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital between January 2010 and September 2014, who underwent FDS placement for intracranial aneurysm. The patients received dual-antiplatelet therapy (clopidogrel and aspirin) 5 days before and 3–6 months after the procedure and then aspirin alone for 6–9 months. An ischemic complication was defined as a sudden focal neurological deficit documented on diffusion-weighted images.

RESULTS

Eighty-six consecutive patients were included. Three (3.5%) patients treated with the Pipeline embolization device experienced a delayed acute ischemic stroke (2 cases of perforator/side-wall branch infarction and 1 case of thromboembolic stroke) with an average delay of 384 days (4 months, 20 months, and 13 months, respectively). The aneurysm locations were the left superior cerebellar artery, the right anterior choroid artery, and the left internal carotid artery (paraclinoid segment), respectively. The complications occurred after the patients had completed the antiaggregation protocol, except for Patient 1, who was receiving aspirin alone because of a spontaneous hematoma. At the acute phase, no in-stent thromboses were found on digital subtraction angiography. In Patient 2, the treated anterior choroid artery was occluded 20 months after the procedure. In Patient 3, a focal stenosis (approximately 40%) of the distal aspect of the FDS, probably caused by intimal hyperplasia, was seen.

CONCLUSIONS

Very late ischemic complications after FDS treatment were observed in 3.5% of the cases in the authors' series, some of which occurred as late as more than 1 year after placement.
Seven-year cost-effectiveness of ProDisc-C total disc replacement: results from investigational device exemption and post-approval studies
Authors: Radcliff Kris , Lerner Jason , Yang Chao , Bernard Thierry , Zigler Jack E.
Published: January 2016

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the 7-year cost-effectiveness of cervical total disc replacement (CTDR) versus anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) for the treatment of patients with single-level symptomatic degenerative disc disease. A change in the spending trajectory for spine care is to be achieved, in part, through the selection of interventions that have been proven effective yet cost less than other options. This analysis complements and builds upon findings from other cost-effectiveness evaluations of CTDR through the use of long-term, patient-level data from a randomized study.

METHODS

This was a 7-year health economic evaluation comparing CTDR versus ACDF from the US commercial payer perspective. Prospectively collected health care resource utilization and treatment effects (quality-adjusted life years [QALYs]) were obtained from individual patient-level adverse event reports and SF-36 data, respectively, from the randomized, multicenter ProDisc-C total disc replacement investigational device exemption (IDE) study and post-approval study. Statistical distributions for unit costs were derived from a commercial claims database and applied using Monte Carlo simulation. Patient-level costs and effects were modeled via multivariate probabilistic analysis. Confidence intervals for 7-year costs, effects, and net monetary benefit (NMB) were obtained using the nonparametric percentile method from results of 10,000 bootstrap simulations. The robustness of results was assessed through scenario analysis and within a parametric regression model controlling for baseline variables.

RESULTS

Seven-year follow-up data were available for more than 70% of the 209 randomized patients. In the base-case analysis, CTDR resulted in mean per-patient cost savings of $12,789 (95% CI $5362–$20,856) and per-patient QALY gains of 0.16 (95% CI −0.073 to 0.39) compared with ACDF over 7 years. CTDR was more effective and less costly in 90.8% of probabilistic simulations. CTDR was cost-effective in 99.8% of sensitivity analysis simulations and generated a mean incremental NMB of $20,679 (95% CI $6053–$35,377) per patient at a willingness-to-pay threshold of $50,000/QALY.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on this modeling evaluation, CTDR was found to be more effective and less costly over a 7-year time horizon for patients with single-level symptomatic degenerative disc disease. These results are robust across a range of scenarios and perspectives and are intended to support value-based decision making.
Synthesis and Crystal Structure of 2-acetoxy-3-(3,4-diacetoxyphenyl) Propanoic Acid
Authors: Chen Lei , Su Bin Xiao , Wang Jing Wen , Cao Jin Yi , bo Ma Shan , Wen Ai Dong , Li Yang
Published: January 2016

2-Acetoxy-3-(3,4-diacetoxyphenyl)propanoic acid has been synthesised as a derivative of 2-hydroxy-3-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)propanoic acid (danshensu) to improve its chemical stability and liposolubility. It was readily hydrolysed to release the bioactive danshensu. Its crystal structure and stereochemistry were determined by X-ray single crystal diffraction analysis.