bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cardiovascular complications of type 2 diabetes in youth
Authors: Kehler D. Scott , Stammers Andrew N. , Susser Shanel E. , Hamm Naomi C. , Kimber Dustin E. , Hlynsky Michael W. , Duhamel Todd A.
Published: December 2014

The prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in youth has increased dramatically over the past decades. The literature also suggests that the progression from an impaired glucose tolerance state to established T2DM is more rapid in youth, compared to adults. The presence of significant cardiovascular complications in youth with T2DM, including cardiac, macrovascular, and microvascular remodeling, is another major issue in this younger cohort and poses a significant threat to the healthcare system. However, this issue is only now emerging as a major public health concern, with few data to support optimal treatment targets and strategies to reduce cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk in youth with T2DM. Accordingly, the purpose of this minireview is to better understand the cardiovascular complications in youth with T2DM. We briefly describe the pathophysiology from youth studies, including oxidative stress, inflammation, renin-angiotensin aldosterone system, and epigenetics, which link T2DM and CVD. We also describe the literature concerning the early signs of CVD in youth and potential treatment options to reduce cardiovascular risk.
A density functional theory study of adsorption and dissociation of isopropyl nitrate on an Al(111) surface
Authors: Wu Yang-Yang , Zhao Feng-Qi , Xu Si-Yu , Ju Xue-Hai
Published: December 2014

The generalized gradient approximation of density functional theory was used to investigate the adsorption and dissociation of a single isopropyl nitrate molecule on an Al(111) surface. The isopropyl nitrate tends to adsorb in a parallel mode with respect to the Al(111) surface. A total of 10 dissociation modes were investigated including both the vertical and parallel dissociations. The analysis of transition states, density of states, and the Hirshfeld populations have been carried out. In general, the dissociations on the same site would produce similar products. The surface aluminum atoms would attract the oxygen or nitrogen atoms dissociated from the nitro group, leading to the formation of three Al–O or Al–N bonds on the surface. Our study presented a deep insight into the dissociation behaviors as well as the mechanisms of isopropyl nitrate on the aluminum surface. Moreover, the smallest activation barrier energy for the isopropyl nitrate dissociation on the aluminum surface is 58.51 kJ/mol, which is much lower than that of 158 kJ/mol for the direct decomposition.
Phenomenology of noncommutative phase space via the anomalous Zeeman effect in hydrogen atom
Authors: Santos Willien O. , Souza Andre M. C.
Published: December 2014

The Hamiltonian describing the anomalous Zeeman effect for the hydrogen atom on noncommutative (NC) phase space is studied using the nonrelativistic limit of the Dirac equation. To preserve gauge invariance, space noncommutativity must be dropped. By using first-order perturbation theory, the correction to the energy is calculated for the case of a weak external magnetic field. We also obtained the orbital and spin g-factors on the NC phase space. We show that the experimental value for the spin g-factor puts an upper bound on the magnitude of the momentum NC parameter of the order of [Formula: see text], 34 μ eV /c. On the other hand, the experimental value for the spin g-factor was used to establish a correction introduced by NC phase space to the presently accepted value of Planck's constant with an uncertainty of 2 part in 1035.
Higher-order prediction terms and fixing the renormalization scale using the BLM approach
Authors: Mirjalili Abolfazl , Khellat Mohammad Reza
Published: December 2014

There is an ambiguity in the perturbative series of QCD observables on how to choose the renormalization and even more the factorization scale. There are many approaches to overcome this obstacle and to fix the scales. Among them, there is the Brodsky–Lepage–Mackenzie (BLM) approach which is based on an intriguing principle. Based on the BLM approach, we intend to absorb the nf-terms in the pQCD series that rightly determines the running behavior of the running coupling into the running coupling. We make an extensive use of the BLM approach to investigate the details of predicting higher order correction terms of some QCD observables. By this way we test different methods to improve the prediction process. It is also found out that an overall normalization could change BLM predictions effectively.
Monte Carlo simulation of quantum Zeno effect in the brain
Authors: Georgiev Danko
Published: December 2014

Environmental decoherence appears to be the biggest obstacle for successful construction of quantum mind theories. Nevertheless, the quantum physicist Henry Stapp promoted the view that the mind could utilize quantum Zeno effect to influence brain dynamics and that the efficacy of such mental efforts would not be undermined by environmental decoherence of the brain. To address the physical plausibility of Stapp's claim, we modeled the brain using quantum tunneling of an electron in a multiple-well structure such as the voltage sensor in neuronal ion channels and performed Monte Carlo simulations of quantum Zeno effect exerted by the mind upon the brain in the presence or absence of environmental decoherence. The simulations unambiguously showed that the quantum Zeno effect breaks down for timescales greater than the brain decoherence time. To generalize the Monte Carlo simulation results for any n-level quantum system, we further analyzed the change of brain entropy due to the mind probing actions and proved a theorem according to which local projections cannot decrease the von Neumann entropy of the unconditional brain density matrix. The latter theorem establishes that Stapp's model is physically implausible but leaves a door open for future development of quantum mind theories provided the brain has a decoherence-free subspace.
Semiclassical approach to sequential fission in peripheral collisions
Authors: Strazzeri A. , Italiano A.
Published: December 2014

A closed-form semiclassical approach describing in a single picture both the evaporation component and the fast nonequilibrium component of the sequential fission of projectile-like (PL) fragments in a peripheral heavy-ion collision is derived and then applied to the dynamical fission observed in the 124 Sn +64 Ni peripheral collision at 35A MeV. Information on opposite polarization effects of the fissioning PL fragments and on "dynamical fission lifetimes" are obtained.
Ceftriaxone-Induced Acute Encephalopathy in a Peritoneal Dialysis Patient
Authors: Safadi Sami , Mao Michael , Dillon John J.
Published: December 2014

Encephalopathy is a rare side effect of third and fourth generation cephalosporins. Renal failure and preexisting neurological disease are notable risk factors. Recognition is important as discontinuing the offending agent usually resolves symptoms. We present a case of acute encephalopathy in a patient with end stage renal disease (ESRD) treated with peritoneal dialysis (PD) who received intravenous ceftriaxone for peritonitis. This case illustrates the potential severe neurologic effects of cephalosporins, which are recommended by international guidelines as first-line antimicrobial therapy for spontaneous bacterial peritonitis.
Treatment Algorithm for Ameloblastoma
Authors: Singh Madhumati , Shah Anjan , Bhattacharya Auric , Raman Ragesh , Ranganatha Narahari , Prakash Piyush
Published: December 2014

Ameloblastoma is the second most common benign odontogenic tumour (Shafer et al. 2006) which constitutes 1–3% of all cysts and tumours of jaw, with locally aggressive behaviour, high recurrence rate, and a malignant potential (Chaine et al. 2009). Various treatment algorithms for ameloblastoma have been reported; however, a universally accepted approach remains unsettled and controversial (Chaine et al. 2009). The treatment algorithm to be chosen depends on size (Escande et al. 2009 and Sampson and Pogrel 1999), anatomical location (Feinberg and Steinberg 1996), histologic variant (Philipsen and Reichart 1998), and anatomical involvement (Jackson et al. 1996). In this paper various such treatment modalities which include enucleation and peripheral osteotomy, partial maxillectomy, segmental resection and reconstruction done with fibula graft, and radical resection and reconstruction done with rib graft and their recurrence rate are reviewed with study of five cases.
Adapting and Implementing a Community Program to Improve Retention in Care among Patients with HIV in Southern Haiti: “Group of 6”
Authors: Naslund John A. , Dionne-Odom Jodie , Junior Destiné Cléonas , Jogerst Kristen M. , Renold Sénécharles Redouin , Jean Louis Michelande , Desir Jasmin , Néptune Ledan Yvette , Beauséjour Jude Ronald , Charles Roland , Werbel Alice , Talbot Elizabeth A. , Joseph Patrice , Pape Jean William , Wright Peter F.
Published: December 2014

Objective. In Mozambique, a patient-led Community ART Group model developed by Médecins Sans Frontières improved retention in care and adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) among persons with HIV. We describe the adaptation and implementation of this model within the HIV clinic located in the largest public hospital in Haiti’s Southern Department.Methods. Our adapted model was named Group of 6. Hospital staff enabled stable patients with HIV receiving ART to form community groups with 4–6 members to facilitate monthly ART distribution, track progress and adherence, and provide support. Implementation outcomes included recruitment success, participant retention, group completion of monthly monitoring forms, and satisfaction surveys.Results. Over one year, 80 patients from nine communities enrolled into 15 groups. Six participants left to receive HIV care elsewhere, two moved away, and one died of a non-HIV condition. Group members successfully completed monthly ART distribution and returned 85.6% of the monthly monitoring forms. Members reported that Group of 6 made their HIV management easier and hospital staff reported that it reduced their workload.Conclusions. We report successful adaptation and implementation of a validated community HIV-care model in Southern Haiti. Group of 6 can reduce barriers to ART adherence, and will be integrated as a routine care option.
Evaluating Multiple Aspects of Educational Computer Games: Literature Review and Case Study
Authors: Nunes Marciano Juvane , Cunha de Miranda Leonardo , Esteves Cunha de Miranda Erica
Published: December 2014

Evaluation is an important step in the life cycle of software, once through this practice it is possible to find issues that could compromise the user experience. With educational computer games, the same rule is applied. The use of educational games is increasing, and it is important to verify these tools to provide users with the most adequate learning environments. This verification can be made through the evaluation of multiple aspects of these tools. This work presents a literature review about evaluation of multiple aspects of software, followed by a more specific review focused on multiple aspects of educational computer games. Then, a case study is presented, in which an evaluation method is applied with an educational computer game, aiming to verify the positives and the issues to be improved in the game. The reviews and the description of the process to use the method intend to help and guide other researchers to choose evaluation methods that can fit their own context and needs.
Effects of Stability of Base Pairs Containing an Oxazolone on DNA Elongation
Authors: Suzuki Masayo , Ohtsuki Kazuya , Kino Katsuhito , Kobayashi Teruhiko , Morikawa Masayuki , Kobayashi Takanobu , Miyazawa Hiroshi
Published: December 2014

The nucleoside 2,2,4-triamino-5(2H)-oxazolone (Oz) can result from oxidative damage to guanine residues in DNA. Despite differences among the three polymerases (Polβ, KF exo−, and Polη) regarding nucleotide incorporation patterns opposite Oz, all three polymerases can incorporate guanine opposite Oz. Based onab initiocalculations, we proposed a structure for a stable Oz:G base pair. Here, to assess the stability of each Oz-containing base pair (Oz:G, Oz:A, Oz:C, and Oz:T) upon DNA replication, we determined the efficiency of Polβ-, KF exo−-, or Polη-catalyzed primer extension beyond each base pair. With each polymerase, extension beyond Oz:G was more efficient than that beyond Oz:A, Oz:C, or Oz:T. Moreover, thermal denaturation studies revealed that theTmvalue for the duplex containing Oz:G was significantly higher than those obtained for duplexes containing Oz:A, Oz:C, or Oz:T. Therefore, the results fromab initiocalculations along with those from DNA replication assays and thermal denaturation experiments supported the conclusion that Oz:G is the most stable of the Oz-containing base pairs.
A Comparative Study of EAG and PBIL on Large-Scale Global Optimization Problems
Authors: Khan Imtiaz Hussain
Published: December 2014

Estimation of Distribution Algorithms (EDAs) use global statistical information effectively to sample offspring disregarding the location information of the locally optimal solutions found so far. Evolutionary Algorithm with Guided Mutation (EAG) combines global statistical information and location information to sample offspring, aiming that this hybridization improves the search and optimization process. This paper discusses a comparative study of Population-Based Incremental Learning (PBIL), a representative of EDAs, and EAG on large-scale global optimization problems. We implemented PBIL and EAG to build an experimental setup upon which simulations were run. The performance of these algorithms was analyzed in terms of solution quality and computational cost. We found that EAG performed better than PBIL in attaining a good quality solution, but the latter performed better in terms of computational cost. We also compared the performance of EAG and PBIL with MA-SW-Chains, the winner of CEC’2010, and found that the overall performance of EAG is comparable to MA-SW-Chains.
Wholly Endoscopic Permeatal Removal of a Petrous Apex Cholesteatoma
Authors: Kanzara Todd , Virk Jagdeep Singh , Chawda Sanjiv , Owa Anthony O.
Published: December 2014

We report a case of a petrous apex cholesteatoma which was managed with a wholly endoscopic permeatal approach. A 63-year-old Caucasian male presented with a 10-year history of right-sided facial palsy and profound deafness. On examination in our clinic, the patient had a grade VI House-Brackmann paresis, otoscopic evidence of attic cholesteatoma behind an intact drum, and extensive scarring of the face from previous facial reanimation surgery. Imaging review was suggestive of petrous apex cholesteatoma. An initial decision to manage the patient conservatively was later reviewed on account of the patient suffering recurrent epileptic seizures. A wholly endoscopic permeatal approach was used with successful outcomes. In addition to the case report we also provide a brief description of the technique and a review of the relevant literature.
Comparative Analysis of Cardiovascular Development Related Genes in Stem Cells Isolated from Deciduous Pulp and Adipose Tissue
Authors: Loo Zhang Xin , Kunasekaran Wijenthiran , Govindasamy Vijayendran , Musa Sabri , Abu Kasim Noor Hayaty
Published: December 2014

Human exfoliated deciduous teeth (SHED) and adipose stem cells (ASC) were suggested as alternative cell choice for cardiac regeneration. However, the true functionability of these cells toward cardiac regeneration is yet to be discovered. Hence, this study was carried out to investigate the innate biological properties of these cell sources toward cardiac regeneration. Both cells exhibited indistinguishable MSCs characteristics. Human stem cell transcription factor arrays were used to screen expression levels in SHED and ASC. Upregulated expression of transcription factor (TF) genes was detected in both sources. An almost equal percentage of > 2-fold changes were observed. These TF genes fall under several cardiovascular categories with higher expressions which were observed in growth and development of blood vessel, angiogenesis, and vasculogenesis categories. Further induction into cardiomyocyte revealed ASC to express more significantly cardiomyocyte specific markers compared to SHED during the differentiation course evidenced by morphology and gene expression profile. Despite this, spontaneous cellular beating was not detected in both cell lines. Taken together, our data suggest that despite being defined as MSCs, both ASC and SHED behave differently when they were cultured in a same cardiomyocytes culture condition. Hence, vigorous characterization is needed before introducing any cell for treating targeted diseases.
Field‐Induced Electron Emission from Nanoporous Carbons
Authors: Arkhipov Alexander , Davydov Sergey , Gabdullin Pavel , Gnuchev Nikolay , Kravchik Alexandr , Krel Svyatoslav
Published: December 2014

Influence of fabrication technology on field electron emission properties of nanoporous carbon (NPC) was investigated. Samples of NPC derived from different carbides via chlorination at different temperatures demonstrated similar low‐field emission ability with threshold electric field 2‐3 V/μm. This property correlated with presence of nanopores with characteristic size 0.5–1.2 nm, determining high values of specific surface area (>800 m2/g) of the material. In most cases, current characteristics of emission were approximately linear in Fowler‐Nordheim coordinates (excluding a low‐current part near the emission threshold), but the plots’ slope angles were in notable disagreement with the known material morphology and electronic properties, unexplainable within the frames of the classical emission theory. We suggest that the actual emission mechanism for NPC involves generation of hot electrons at internal boundaries and that emission centers may be associated with relatively large (20–100 nm) onion‐like particles observed in many microscopic images. Such particles can serve two functions: to provide additional “internal” enhancement of the electric field and to inhibit relaxation of hot charge carriers due to the “phonon bottleneck” effect.
Acquired Von Willebrand’s Syndrome in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Taveras Alam Sara , Alexis Karenza , Sridharan Ashwin , Strakhan Marianna , Elrafei Tarek , Gralla Richard J. , Reed Louis J.
Published: December 2014

Acquired von Willebrand syndrome (AVWS) is an uncommon, underdiagnosed, and heterogeneous disease which is increasingly recognized as a cause of bleeding diatheses. Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an infrequent cause of AVWS. Herein, we report a case of AVWS diagnosed during the initial presentation of SLE in a previously healthy young man with no family history of bleeding diathesis who presented with worsening epistaxis, gastrointestinal bleeding, and anasarca. He was found to have severe anemia and prolonged activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) with severely decreased levels of von Willebrand factor (VWF) measurements in addition to markedly decreased factor VIII levels. Further evaluation revealed nephrotic syndrome and interstitial lung disease due to SLE. He initially received combination therapy with intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) and von Willebrand factor/factor VIII concentrates without significant improvement. Treatment with steroids, cyclophosphamide, and rituximab was followed by clinical improvement evidenced by cessation of bleeding. The short follow-up did not allow us to definitely prove the therapeutic effect of immunosuppressive treatment on AVWS in SLE patients. This case adds to the literature supporting the relationship between AVWS and SLE and highlights the importance of combination therapy in the treatment of severe AVWS as well as the role of IVIG, cyclophosphamide, and rituximab in AVWS associated with SLE.
Cervical Cystic Hygroma in an Adult
Authors: Derin Serhan , Şahan Murat , Dere Yelda , Çullu Neşat , Şahan Leyla
Published: December 2014

Cystic hygromas/lymphangiomas are extremely rare malformations in adults. They are usually seen in infants and children under 2 years of age. En bloc resection is difficult due to the adhesive characteristics of the tumors. Inadequate surgical intervention often leads to recurrent disease. We report herein the case of a cystic hygroma/lymphangioma that presented as an uncommon mass on the cervical region in an adult, together with its histopathological, radiologic, and operative features.
VAWCM-Instillation Improves Delayed Primary Fascial Closure of Open Septic Abdomen
Authors: Tao Qingsong , Ren Jianan , Ji Zhenling , Liu Shengli , Wang Baochai , Zheng Yu , Gu Guosheng , Wang Xinbo , Li Jieshou
Published: December 2014

Background.Failure to achieve delayed primary fascial closure (DPFC) is one of the main complications of open abdomen (OA), certainly when abdominal sepsis is present. This retrospective cohort study aims to evaluate the effect of combined therapy of vacuum-assisted mesh-mediated fascial traction and topical instillation (VAWCM-instillation) on DPFC in the open septic abdomen.Methods.The patients with abdominal sepsis who underwent OA using VAWCM were included and divided into the instillation and noninstillation (control) groups. The DPFC rate and other outcomes were compared between the two groups.Results.Between 2007 and 2013, 73 patients with open septic abdomen were treated with VAWCM-instillation and 61 cases with VAWCM-only. The DPFC rate in the instillation group was significantly increased (63% versus 41%,P=0.011). The mortality with OA was similar (24.6% versus 23%,P=0.817) between the two groups. However, time to DPFC(P=0.003)and length of stay in hospital(P=0.022)of the survivals were significantly decreased in the instillation group. In addition, VAWCM-instillation (OR 1.453, 95% CI 1.222–4.927,P=0.011) was an independent influencing factor related to successful DPFC.Conclusions.VAWCM-instillation could improve the DPFC rate but could not decrease the mortality in the patients with open septic abdomen.
Comparison of Mycotic Keratitis with Nonmycotic Keratitis: An Epidemiological Study
Authors: Khater Mohammad M. , Shehab Nehal S. , El-Badry Anwar S.
Published: December 2014

Purpose. This work aims to study the problems encountered with and the different epidemiological features of patients with fungal keratitis.Patients and Methods. All cases with keratitis attending the Outpatient Clinic of Ophthalmology Department at Tanta University Hospital during three years from the first of January 2011 to the end of December 2013 were selected and carefully examined and cases with mycotic keratitis were further examined and investigated.Results. From 66303 attendants during this period with different complaints, there were 361 cases (0.54%) with mycotic keratitis and 473 cases (0.71%) of nonmycotic origin. Mycotic keratitis is common between 40 and 60 years, more in farmers (64%), families with large number and large crowding index, rural than urban residence, and patients with outdoor water sources and insanitary sewage disposal. Positive fungal cultures were obtained in 84.5% and were negative in 15.5% of cases in spite of their typical clinical findings for diagnosis and their improvement with antifungal therapy.Conclusion. Mycotic keratitis is more frequent in farmers, rural areas, outdoor water supply, insanitary sewage disposal, and patients preceded with organic trauma. Atypical clinical findings were found in some cases and not all cases improved with specific antifungal therapy.
TransporterTAP1-637G and ImmunoproteasomePSMB9-60H Variants Influence the Risk of Developing Vitiligo in the Saudi Population
Authors: Elhawary Nasser Attia , Bogari Neda , Jiffri Essam Hussien , Rashad Mona , Fatani Abdulhamid , Tayeb Mohammed
Published: December 2014

We evaluated whetherTAP1-rs1135216 (p.637D>G) andPSMB9-rs17587 (p.60R>H) were significantly associated with the risk and severity of vitiligo among Saudi patients. One hundred seventy-two subjects were genotyped for theTAP1-rs1135216 andPSMB9-rs17587 variants using endonuclease digestions of amplified genomic DNA. TheTAP1-rs1135216 andPSMB9-rs17587 mutant alleles were strongly associated with vitiligo, with odds ratios showing five fold and two fold risks (P<0.0001andP=0.007, resp.). InTAP1-rs1135216, the 637G mutant allele was more frequent in cases (74%) than in healthy controls. In cases, the 60H mutant allelePSMB9-rs17587 was less frequent (42%) than the wild-type 60R allele (58%). Vitiligo vulgaris was the most common type of disease, associated with the DG (55%) and GG (46%) genotypes for rs1135216 and with the RH genotype (59%) for rs17587. The heterozygous 637DG and 60RH genotypes were each linked with active phenotypes in 64% of cases. In conclusion, theTAP1-rs1135216 andPSMB9-rs17587 variants are significantly associated with vitiligo, and even one copy of these mutant alleles can influence the risk among Saudis. Vitiligo vulgaris is associated with genotypes containing the mutant G and H alleles.
Protective Effect of a Lipid-Based Preparation fromMycobacterium smegmatisin a Murine Model of Progressive Pulmonary Tuberculosis
Authors: García Maria de los Angeles , Borrero Reinier , Lanio Maria E. , Tirado Yanely , Alvarez Nadine , Puig Alina , Aguilar Alicia , Canet Liem , Mata Espinoza Dulce , Barrios Payán Jorge , Sarmiento María Elena , Hernández-Pando Rogelio , Norazmi Mohd-Nor , Acosta Armando
Published: December 2014

A more effective vaccine against tuberculosis (TB) is urgently needed. Based on its high genetic homology withMycobacterium tuberculosis(Mtb), the nonpathogenic mycobacteria,Mycobacterium smegmatis(Ms), could be an attractive source of potential antigens to be included in such a vaccine. We evaluated the capability of lipid-based preparations obtained from Ms to provide a protective response in Balb/c mice after challenge with Mtb H37Rv strain. The intratracheal model of progressive pulmonary TB was used to assess the level of protection in terms of bacterial load as well as the pathological changes in the lungs of immunized Balb/c mice following challenge with Mtb. Mice immunized with the lipid-based preparation from Ms either adjuvanted with Alum (LMs-AL) or nonadjuvanted (LMs) showed significant reductions in bacterial load (P<0.01) compared to the negative control group (animals immunized with phosphate buffered saline (PBS)). Both lipid formulations showed the same level of protection as Bacille Calmette and Guerin (BCG). Regarding the pathologic changes in the lungs, mice immunized with both lipid formulations showed less pneumonic area when compared with the PBS group (P<0.01) and showed similar results compared with the BCG group. These findings suggest the potential of LMs as a promising vaccine candidate against TB.
Isolated Pulmonary Embolism following Shoulder Arthroscopy
Authors: Goldhaber Nicole H. , Lee Christopher S.
Published: December 2014

Pulmonary embolism (PE) following shoulder arthroscopy is a rare complication. We present a unique case report of a 43-year-old right-hand dominant female who developed a PE 41 days postoperatively with no associated upper or lower extremity DVT. The patient had minimal preoperative and intraoperative risk factors. Additionally, she had no thromboembolic symptoms postoperatively until 41 days following surgery when she developed sudden right-hand swelling, labored breathing, and abdominal pain. A stat pulmonary computed tomography (CT) angiogram of the chest revealed an acute PE in the right lower lobe, and subsequent extremity ultrasounds showed no upper or lower extremity deep vein thrombosis. After a thorough review of the literature, we present the first documented isolated PE following shoulder arthroscopy. Although rare, sudden development of an isolated PE is possible, and symptoms such as sudden hand swelling, trouble breathing, and systemic symptoms should be evaluated aggressively with a pulmonary CT angiogram given the fact that an extremity ultrasound may be negative for deep vein thrombosis.
Reducing Runoff Loss of Applied Nutrients in Oil Palm Cultivation Using Controlled-Release Fertilizers
Authors: Bah A. , Husni M. H. A. , Teh C. B. S. , Rafii M. Y. , Syed Omar S. R. , Ahmed O. H.
Published: December 2014

Controlled-release fertilizers are expected to minimize nutrient loss from crop fields due to their potential to supply plant-available nutrients in synchrony with crop requirements. The evaluation of the efficiency of these fertilizers in tropical oil palm agroecological conditions is not yet fully explored. In this study, a one-year field trial was conducted to determine the impact of fertilization with water soluble conventional mixture and controlled-release fertilizers on runoff loss of nutrients from an immature oil palm field. Soil and nutrient loss were monitored for one year in 2012/2013 under erosion plots of 16 m2on 10% slope gradient. Mean sediments concentration in runoff amounted to about 6.41 t ha−1. Conventional mixture fertilizer posed the greatest risk of nutrient loss in runoff following fertilization due to elevated nitrogen (6.97%), potassium (13.37%), and magnesium (14.76%) as percentage of applied nutrients. In contrast, this risk decreased with the application of controlled-release fertilizers, representing 0.75–2.44% N, 3.55–5.09% K, and 4.35–5.43% Mg loss. Meanwhile, nutrient loss via eroded sediments was minimal compared with loss through runoff. This research demonstrates that the addition of controlled-release fertilizers reduced the runoff risks of nutrient loss possibly due to their slow-release properties.
Feasibility and Acceptability of the Informant AD8 for Cognitive Screening in Primary Healthcare: A Pilot Study
Authors: Dong YanHong , Cheng Tuck Seng , Tsou Keith Yu Kei , Chan Qun Lin , Chen Christopher Li-Hsian
Published: December 2014

Objectives.The utility of informant AD8 for case finding of cognitive impairment at primary healthcare settings is unknown and therefore its feasibility and acceptability for targeted screening at a primary healthcare clinic should be investigated.Methods.The informants of older adult patients attending a primary healthcare clinic in Singapore were administered the AD8. Positive screening findings were provided to patients’ primary care physicians for referrals to specialist memory clinics. The acceptability of AD8 was evaluated by collecting feedbacks from the informants and primary care physicians.Results.205 patients and their informants were recruited. However, 6 (2.9%) informants were uncontactable, while the majority of the remaining 199 patients with completed AD8 (96.5%,n=192) found it acceptable where 59 (29.6%) patients were deemed cognitively impaired (AD8 ≥ 2). Clinicians (100%,n=5) found the AD8 helpful in facilitating referrals to memory clinics. However, most referral recommendations (81.4%,n=48) were declined by patients and/or informant due to limited insight of implications of cognitive impairment.Conclusions.The AD8 can be easily administered and is well tolerated. It detected cognitive impairment in one-third of older adult patients and therefore may be useful for case finding of cognitive impairment in the primary healthcare.
Vinpocetine and Pyritinol: A New Model for Blood Rheological Modulation in Cerebrovascular Disorders—A Randomized Controlled Clinical Study
Authors: Alkuraishy Hayder M. , Al-Gareeb Ali I. , Albuhadilly Ali K.
Published: December 2014

Blood and plasma viscosity are the major factors affecting blood flow and normal circulation. Whole blood viscosity is mainly affected by plasma viscosity, red blood cell deformability/aggregation and hematocrit, and other physiological factors. Thirty patients (twenty males + ten females) with age range 50–65 years, normotensive with history of cerebrovascular disorders, were selected according to the American Heart Stroke Association. Blood viscosity and other rheological parameters were measured after two-day abstinence from any medications. Dual effects of vinpocetine and pyritinol exhibit significant effects on all hemorheological parameters (P<0.05), especially on low shear whole blood viscosity (P<0.01), but they produced insignificant effects on total serum protein and high shear whole blood viscosity (P>0.05). Therefore, joint effects of vinpocetine and pyritinol improve blood and plasma viscosity in patients with cerebrovascular disorders.
Against the Standards: Analyzing Expectations and Discourse of Educators regarding Students with Disabilities in a Kindergarten Classroom
Authors: Orsati Fernanda T.
Published: December 2014

This two-year ethnographic case study critically examines the language educators use to describe students with disabilities who are considered to present challenging behaviors in one classroom. Focusing on the language and practices used by one special education teacher and three teaching assistants, this paper explores how educators respond to students’ behaviors by analyzing educators’ utterances and the implication of such use for the education of the students. Using critical discourse analysis, this paper highlights how educators’ language in the classroom reflects a discourse of expectations that is based on various social standards and pressures that educators have to juggle. Educators expressed academic and behavioral standards by comparing students’ performance to the expected norm as well as through comparisons between students. Based on such comparisons, some students were constructed as always lacking and ultimately defined by the adjectives originally used to describe them. Students were perceived to embody defiance or smartness, the characteristics by which they were defined.
Dental Wear: A Scanning Electron Microscope Study
Authors: Levrini Luca , Di Benedetto Giulia , Raspanti Mario
Published: December 2014

Dental wear can be differentiated into different types on the basis of morphological and etiological factors. The present research was carried out on twelve extracted human teeth with dental wear (three teeth showing each type of wear: erosion, attrition, abrasion, and abfraction) studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The study aimed, through analysis of the macro- and micromorphological features of the lesions (considering the enamel, dentin, enamel prisms, dentinal tubules, and pulp), to clarify the different clinical and diagnostic presentations of dental wear and their possible significance. Our results, which confirm current knowledge, provide a complete overview of the distinctive morphology of each lesion type. It is important to identify the type of dental wear lesion in order to recognize the contributing etiological factors and, consequently, identify other more complex, nondental disorders (such as gastroesophageal reflux, eating disorders). It is clear that each type of lesion has a specific morphology and mechanism, and further clinical studies are needed to clarify the etiological processes, particularly those underlying the onset of abfraction.
Electrochemical Investigation of Corrosion Behavior Heat Treated Al-6Si-0.5Mg-xCu (x = 0, 0.5, 1, 2, and 4 wt%) Alloys
Authors: Hossain A. , Gulshan F. , Kurny A. S. W.
Published: December 2014

The corrosion behaviour of heat treated Al-6Si-0.5Mg-xCu (x=0.5, 1, 2, and 4 wt%) alloys in 0.1 M NaCl solution was investigated using potentiodynamic polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) techniques. The potentiodynamic polarization curves reveal that 2 wt% Cu (Alloy-4) and 4 wt% Cu (Alloy-5) content alloys are more prone to corrosion than the other alloys investigated. But the EIS test results showed that charge transfer resistance (Rct) increases with increasing Cu content into Al-6Si-0.5Mg. Maximum charge transfer resistance (Rct) is reported with the addition of 2 wt% Cu and minimumRctvalue is for 4 wt% Cu content Al-6Si-0.5Mg alloy. Due to additions of Cu into Al-6Si-0.5Mg alloy, the magnitudes of open circuit potential (OCP), corrosion potential (Ecorr), and pitting corrosion potential (Epit) in NaCl solution were shifted to the more noble direction.
Spontaneous Absorption of Extensive Subinternal Limiting Membrane Hemorrhage in Shaken Baby Syndrome
Authors: Azzi Tatiana Tarules , Zacharias Leandro Cabral , Pimentel Sérgio Luis Gianotti
Published: December 2014

The Shaken Baby Syndrome (SBS) is characterized by subdural hematomas (SH), retinal hemorrhages (RH), and multiple fractures of long bones without external evidence of head trauma. Subinternal limiting membrane (ILM) hemorrhage, also known as macular schisis, is a characteristic finding of this entity. There is no guideline on the right time to indicate surgical treatment. This report describes an abused child with massive sub-ILM hemorrhage, which showed spontaneous absorption after less than two months of follow-up. Due to the possible spontaneous resolution, we suggest an initial conservative treatment in cases of sub-ILM hemorrhage related to SBS.
Working with Missing Data: Imputation of Nonresponse Items in Categorical Survey Data with a Non-Monotone Missing Pattern
Authors: Wilson Machelle D. , Lueck Kerstin
Published: December 2014

The imputation of missing data is often a crucial step in the analysis of survey data. This study reviews typical problems with missing data and discusses a method for the imputation of missing survey data with a large number of categorical variables which do not have a monotone missing pattern. We develop a method for constructing a monotone missing pattern that allows for imputation of categorical data in data sets with a large number of variables using a model-based MCMC approach. We report the results of imputing the missing data from a case study, using educational, sociopsychological, and socioeconomic data from the National Latino and Asian American Study (NLAAS). We report the results of multiply imputed data on a substantive logistic regression analysis predicting socioeconomic success from several educational, sociopsychological, and familial variables. We compare the results of conducting inference using a single imputed data set to those using a combined test over several imputations. Findings indicate that, for all variables in the model, all of the single tests were consistent with the combined test.
Interfractional Variations of Tumor Centroid Position and Tumor Regression during Stereotactic Body Radiotherapy for Lung Tumor
Authors: Sun Yanan , Lu Yufei , Cheng Siguo , Guo Wei , Ye Ke , Zhao Huiyun , Zheng Xiaoli , Li Dingjie , Wang Shujuan , Yang Chengliang , Ge Hong
Published: December 2014

Purpose. To determine interfractional changes of lung tumor centroid position and tumor regression during stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT).Methods and Materials. 34 patients were treated by SBRT in 4-5 fractions to a median dose of 50 Gy. The CT scans acquired for verification were registered with simulation CT scans. The gross target volume (GTV) was contoured on all verification CT scans and compared to the initial GTV in treatment plan system.Results. The mean (±standard deviation, SD) three-dimension vector shift was5.2±3.1 mm. The mean(±SD)interfractional variations of tumor centroid position were-0.7±4.5 mm in anterior-posterior (AP) direction,0.2±3.1 mm in superior-inferior (SI) direction, and0.4±2.4 mm in right-left (RL) direction. Large interfractional variations (≥5 mm) were observed in 5 fractions (3.3%) in RL direction, 16 fractions (10.5%) in SI direction, and 36 fractions (23.5%) in AP direction. Tumor volume did not decrease significantly during lung SBRT.Conclusions. Small but insignificant tumor volume regression was observed during lung SBRT. While the mean interfractional variations of tumor centroid position were minimal in three directions, variations more than 5 mm account for approximately a third of all, indicating additional margin for PTV, especially in AP direction.
Imported Malaria in Portugal 2000–2009: A Role for Hospital Statistics for Better Estimates and Surveillance
Authors: Fonseca Ana Glória , Dias Sara S. , Baptista João Luis , Torgal Jorge
Published: December 2014

Background. Although eradicated in Portugal, malaria keeps taking its toll on travelers and migrants from endemic countries. Disease notification is mandatory but is compromised by underreporting. Methods. A retrospective study on malaria hospitalizations for 10 consecutive years (2000–2009) was conducted. Data on hospitalizations and notifications were obtained from Central Administration of Health System and Health Protection Agency, respectively. For data selection ICD-9 CM and ICD-10 were used: codes 084*, 647.4, and B50–B54. Variables were gender, age, agent and origin of infection, length of stay (LOS), lethality, and comorbidities. Analysis included description, hypothesis testing, and regression. Results. There were 2003 malaria hospitalizations and 480 notified hospitalized cases, mainly in young male adults. P. falciparum was the main agent of infection acquired mainly in sub-Saharan Africa. Lethality was 1.95% and mean LOS was 8.09 days. Older age entailed longer LOS and increased lethality. Discussion. From 2000 to 2009, there were 2003 malaria hospitalizations with decreasing annual incidence, these numbers being remarkably higher than those notified. The national database of diagnosis related groups, reflecting hospitalizations on NHS hospitals, may be an unexplored complementary source for better estimates on imported malaria.
Camouflage of Severe Skeletal Class II Gummy Smile Patient Treated Nonsurgically with Mini Implants
Authors: Qamruddin Irfan , Shahid Fazal , Alam Mohammad Khursheed , Zehra Jamal Wafa
Published: December 2014

Skeletal class II has always been a challenge in orthodontics and often needs assistance of surgical orthodontics in nongrowing patients when it presents with severe discrepancy. Difficulty increases more when vertical dysplasia is also associated with sagittal discrepancy. The advent of mini implants in orthodontics has broadened the spectrum of camouflage treatment. This case report presents a 16-year-old nongrowing girl with severe class II because of retrognathic mandible, and anterior dentoalveolar protrusion sagittally and vertically resulted in severe overjet of 13 mm and excessive display of incisors and gums. Both maxillary central incisors were trimmed by general practitioner few years back to reduce visibility. Treatment involved use of micro implant for retraction and intrusion of anterior maxillary dentoalveolar segment while lower incisors were proclined to obtain normal overjet, and overbite and pleasing soft tissue profile. Smile esthetics was further improved with composite restoration of incisal edges of both central incisors.
Effect of Proinflammatory Cytokines (IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-1β) on Clinical Manifestations in Indian SLE Patients
Authors: Umare Vinod , Pradhan Vandana , Nadkar Milind , Rajadhyaksha Anjali , Patwardhan Manisha , Ghosh Kanjaksha K. , Nadkarni Anita H.
Published: December 2014

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an inflammatory rheumatic disease characterized by production of autoantibodies and organ damage. Elevated levels of cytokines have been reported in SLE patients. In this study we have investigated the effect of proinflammatory cytokines (IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-1β) on clinical manifestations in 145 Indian SLE patients. One hundred and forty-five healthy controls of the same ethnicity served as a control group. Clinical disease activity was scored according to SLEDAI score. Accordingly, 110 patients had active disease and 35 patients had inactive disease. Mean levels of IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-1βwere found to be significantly higher in SLE patients than healthy controls (P<0.001). Mean level of IL-6 for patients with active disease (70.45±68.32 pg/mL) was significantly higher (P=0.0430) than those of inactive disease patients (43.85±63.36 pg/mL). Mean level of TNF-αwas44.76±68.32 pg/mL for patients with active disease while it was25.97±22.03 pg/mL for those with inactive disease and this difference was statistically significant (P=0.0161). Similar results were obtained for IL-1β(P=0.0002). Correlation between IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-1βserum levels and SLEDAI score was observed (r=0.20,r=0.27, andr=0.38, resp.). This study supports the role of these proinflammatory cytokines as inflammatory mediators in active stage of disease.
Entropy Growth Is the Manifestation of Spontaneity
Authors: Wang Lin-Shu
Published: December 2014

Every student of thermodynamics grasps entropy growth in terms of dissipation of energy. The real nature of energy and entropy is subtle. This critical review of the evolution of thermodynamic thought uncovers the remarkable advance on our understanding of energy made by Kelvin with his dissipation of energy proposition. Maxwell and Planck, however, pointed out that dissipation of energy does not exhaust growth of entropy (i.e., the idea of spontaneity), and in fact, as it is shown here, Kelvin’s proposition of dissipation of energy (1852) is subsumed under the principle of the increase of entropy (Clausius, 1865). It is necessary, therefore, for thermodynamics to become a coherent conceptual system, to introduce spontaneity as an independent concept. Instead of the heat-work dyad framework, the introduction of spontaneity entails energy transformation to be viewed in terms of a triad framework of heat (from the reservoir)-work-spontaneity. Spontaneity is the new energy in the triad framework, and it is also clear that energy commodity (fungible energy or energy carriers) is only one kind of spontaneity, stock spontaneity; the other kind is ongoing spontaneity, the consideration of which is necessary for comprehending problems of homeostasis in both the organic and inorganic worlds.
The Fate of Patients Who Started Hemodialysis during Childhood or Adolescence: Results of an Interregional Moroccan Survey
Authors: Souilmi F. Z. , Sqalli Houssaini T. , EL Bardai G. , Kabbali N. , Arrayhani M. , Hida M.
Published: December 2014

Hemodialysis is the most used renal replacement therapy for children in Morocco. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of patients who started hemodialysis in childhood and study their characteristics and specificities of their care. For this we conducted a multicentric descriptive cross-sectional study of all chronic hemodialysis patients who started dialysis in pediatric age, in hemodialysis centers in four of the sixteen regions of Morocco. We collected 2066 patients undergoing dialysis in 39 hemodialysis centers; from these, only 72 patients (3.48%) started hemodialysis in childhood. The average age of patients was 20.64 ± 6.5 years with a sex ratio of 1.9. Duration of dialysis was 78.2 ± 56 months. The cause of end stage renal disease was urological abnormalities in 18% of cases and glomerulopathy in 12.5% of cases; however, it remains unknown in half of the patients. Over 18 years, 74% of patients are without profession, it is active in 13% of cases, and pursuing studies are only in 13% of cases. Patients under 5 years and those with a low weight are rarely taken care of in chronic hemodialysis with little individualization of prescription. Greater attention should be paid to renal transplantation that is desired by the majority of these patients (92%).
On the Sum of Reciprocal Generalized Fibonacci Numbers
Authors: Yuan Pingzhi , He Zilong , Zhou Junyi
Published: December 2014

We consider infinite sums derived from the reciprocals of the generalized Fibonacci numbers. We obtain some new and interesting identities for the generalized Fibonacci numbers.