bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Programmable Anisotropic Microparticles for Self-Assembly Applications
Authors: Liu Jonathan , Wyatt Shields C. , Omofoye Oluwatosin , Lopez Gabriel P.
Published: January 2014

Colloids with anisotropic shape and properties can enable the assembly of advanced materials otherwise not attainable by microfabrication. In this study, we present a convenient method using common microfabrication tools to generate a diverse array of non-spherical microparticles with well-defined shapes, sizes, electromagnetic properties for self-assembly applications. Projection photolithography onto SU-8 photoresist enabled the production of large aspect ratio microparticles such as cubes, cuboids, cylinders, hexagonal prisms, and parallelepipeds. We characterized these particles to confirm their anisotropic shape and size monodispersity. Fluorescent stains (e.g., Nile red) were mixed into the photoresist prepolymer to enhance the visualization of particle orientation. Particles designed for passive self-assembly were prepared by conventional photolithographic techniques. Particles designed for active assembly were then decorated with metallic patches in precise locations along the surface (e.g., top, side or multiple sides) using electron beam metal evaporation. This metal deposition process can enable orientational control of particles during their assembly in directed fields. After fabrication, large particles (e.g., 1,000 µm3) were released from the substrate via gentle sheer forces, whereas small particles (e.g., 10 µm3) were released by the dissolution of a sacrificial layer underneath the SU-8. Suspending the particles in water with surfactant (or other suitable solvents) provided amenable conditions for their assembly in static or dynamic systems. These conventional methods have the potential to catalyze new research in the fabrication and assembly of anisotropic patchy particles with controllable properties for the hierarchical development of self-assembled micromirrors, biosensors, and photonic crystals as examples.
CBS c.844ins68 Polymorphism Frequencies in Control Populations: Implications on Nonsyndromic Cleft Lip with or without Cleft Palate
Authors: Murthy Jyotsna , Lakkakula Saikrishna , Gurramkonda Venkatesh Babu , Pathapati Ram Mohan , Maram Rajasekhar , Lakkakula Bhaskar
Published: January 2014

Introduction

Nonsyndromic cleft lip with or without cleft palate (NSCLP) is a common birth defect with substantial clinical and social impact. Folate deficiency is one of the factors that have been associated with increased risk for NSCLP. Polymorphisms in folate and homocysteine pathway genes may act as susceptibility factors.

Objective

The objective of this study was to evaluate prevalence estimates of cystathionine beta-synthase (CBS) insertion of 68-bp (c.844ins68) polymorphisms and their correlation with NSCLP.

Material and Methods

A total of 236 unrelated individuals from seven Indian populations and an additional 355 cases with NSCLP and 357 controls without NSCLP were included in this study. We investigated the CBS c.844ins68 polymorphism in all samples. Genotyping was performed with polymerase chain reaction and electrophoresis. The data were statistically analyzed using the chi-square test.

Results

The CBS c.844ins68 allele is present in six of the seven populations analyzed, and allele frequencies range from 1.5% in Balija to 9.1% in Sugali populations. The CBS c.844ins68 polymorphism showed a significant protective effect on NSCLP at both genotype (WW versus WI: odds ratio [OR] = 0.54, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.31 to 0.95, P = .149) and allele levels (W versus I: OR = 0.56, 95% CI = 0.32 to 0.96, P = .033).

Conclusions

The current study observed significant differences in the frequency of the CBS 844ins68 allele across populations. There is a significant association between CBS c.844ins68 polymorphism and cleft lip and palate in the Indian population. Additional studies are warranted to identify the functional variants in the genes controlling homocysteine as etiological contributors to the formation of oral clefts.
Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Family-Targeted Therapies in the Treatment of HER2-Overexpressing Breast Cancer
Authors: Eroglu Zeynep , Tagawa Tomoko , Somlo George
Published: January 2014

Learning Objectives

Describe the role of HER2 in breast cancer pathogenesis. List the approved and investigational agents targeting the HER receptor family and downstream signaling pathways with focus on overcoming resistance to HER2-targeted therapies. Describe ongoing clinical trials evaluating the efficacy and safety of agents targeting HER and downstream pathways in breast cancer patients.
Diversification and diversity partitioning
Authors: Hautmann Michael
Published: January 2014

Model calculations predict that pathways of alpha- and beta-diversity in diversifying ecosystems notably differ depending on the relative role of competition, predation, positive effects of species' interactions, and environmental parameters. Four scenarios are discussed, in which alpha- and beta-diversity are modeled as a function of increasing gamma-diversity. The graphic illustration of this approach is herein called α-β-γ plot, in which the x-axis indicates increasing diversification rather than absolute time. In purely environmentally controlled systems, beta-diversity maintains near-maximum values throughout the diversification interval, whereas mean alpha-diversity increases linearly, with a slope being reciprocal to beta-diversity. A second scenario is based on the assumption that increasing richness will have predominantly positive effects on the addition of further species; here, alpha- and beta-diversity increase simultaneously (though not necessarily at the same rates) and without reaching a predictable upper limit. In ecosystems that are characterized by low competition between species, mean alpha-diversity asymptotically approaches a saturation level, whereas the increase in beta-diversity accelerates until alpha-diversity stagnates, and then continues to rise linearly. If competition is high, addition of species first increases beta-diversity until no further habitat contraction is possible, followed by a period in which alpha-diversity increase through adaptive divergence becomes the principal drive of diversification. Because there is a continuous transition between the late stage of the low-competition model and the early stage of the high-competition scenario, both can be combined in a single model of diversity partitioning under the premise of a diversity-dependent increase of competition. This summary model predicts three phases of diversity accumulation: (1) a niche overlap phase, (2) a habitat contraction phase, and (3) a niche differentiation phase. The models herein discussed provide a potential tool to assess the question which factors primary controlled the diversification of life over geological times.
Tensile properties of geosynthetics after installation damage
Authors: Pinho-Lopes Margarida , Lopes Maria de Lurdes
Published: January 2014

In this paper, data from field installation trials of geosynthetics and laboratory tests are presented and analysed. The influence of several factors was assessed, namely nominal strength and type of geosynthetic, soil, compaction energy and method used to induce installation damage. Visual observations using a scanning electron microscope were performed. From the data collected, reduction factors for installation damage were derived using tensile strength values (traditional approach) and stiffness modulus (for 2% strain). Relative to the stiffness approach, the results obtained indicate that the traditional approach can be conservative. The reduction factors, determined using the traditional approach, were also compared with interval estimates from the literature. To contribute to supporting a shift from a factor of safety approach to a limit state design, bias statistics to correct the deterministic predictions were determined from the results. Different correlations were also established to enable using these results to interpolate reduction factors for similar installation conditions and/or geosynthetics from the same family of products. Installation damage reduction factors should be used in limit state design (ultimate and serviceability). Nevertheless, the stiffness approach can only be used for limit states where tensile failure of the geosynthetics will not occur.
Flexural performance of concrete-encased concrete-filled steel tubes
Authors: An Yu-Feng , Han Lin-Hai , Roeder Charles
Published: January 2014

The flexural performance of concrete-encased concrete-filled steel tubes (CFSTs) was investigated. A finite-element analysis (FEA) model is developed to analyse the flexural behaviour of the composite member and a set of test data used to verify the FEA modelling. Full-range analysis of the moment–curvature relation, the stress distributions across the composite section and the interactions between steel and concrete was carried out. It was found that thin-walled steel tubes can be used in concrete-encased CFSTs and develop full plastic strength without local buckling before reaching the ultimate state. A strut-and-tie model is proposed for the load transfer mechanism of a concrete-encased CFST member under bending. Finally, the paper presents a parametric study to derive simplified formulas for predicting the flexural capacity of concrete-encased CFST sections.
More Than Clinical Waste? Placenta Rituals Among Australian Home-Birthing Women
Authors: Burns Emily
Published: January 2014

The discursive construction of the human placenta varies greatly between hospital and home-birthing contexts. The former, driven by medicolegal discourse, defines the placenta as clinical waste. Within this framework, the placenta is as much of an afterthought as it is considered the “afterbirth.” In home-birth practices, the placenta is constructed as a “special” and meaningful element of the childbirth experience. I demonstrate this using 51 in-depth interviews with women who were pregnant and planning home births in Australia or had recently had home births in Australia. Analysis of these interviews indicates that the discursive shift taking place in home-birth practices from the medicalized model translates into a richer understanding and appreciation of the placenta as a spiritual component of the childbirth experience. The practices discussed in this article include the burial of the placenta beneath a specifically chosen plant, consuming the placenta, and having a lotus birth, which refers to not cutting the umbilical cord after the birth of the child but allowing it to dry naturally and break of its own accord. By shifting focus away from the medicalized frames of reference in relation to the third stage of labor, the home-birthing women in this study have used the placenta in various rituals and ceremonies to spiritualize an aspect of birth that is usually overlooked.
Julian’s Birth
Authors: Carrillo Elena
Published: January 2014

A grandmother of seven and childbirth educator shares her daughter’s successful vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) birth story in Switzerland.
The Predictive Utility of Psychological Aggression for Intimate Partner Violence
Authors: Salis Katie Lee , Salwen Jessica , O’Leary K. Daniel
Published: January 2014

Although psychological aggression has been identified as a risk factor for physical aggression, the prevalence of psychological aggression is much higher than that of physical aggression. To further understand the relationship between psychological and physical aggression, the level of psychological aggression at which physical aggression becomes more likely was evaluated. A representative sample of 268 men and 299 women responded anonymously to a self-report measure of aggression (revised Conflict Tactics Scale [CTS-2]) at baseline, and then 1 year later. Using both cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses, this study evaluated the level of psychological aggression that is necessary before it is likely that one will be physically aggressive. When one was at the 80th percentile of psychological aggression, there was a 70% probability that a man would be physically aggressive and 85% probability that a woman would be physically aggressive. Longitudinally, when one was at the 80th percentile of psychological aggression at Time 1, there was a 40% probability that a man would be physically aggressive and 45% probability that a woman would be physically aggressive at Time 2. CTS-2 psychological decile scores are provided along with the probability of physical aggression to assist clinicians in interpreting client scores. Implications for research and couples therapy are discussed.
Proposal for water reuse in the Kraft pulp and paper industry
Authors: Kossar M. J. , Amaral K. J. , Martinelli S. S. , Erbe M. C. L.
Published: January 2014

The reuse of wastewater by the pulp and paper industry reduces environmental impacts by contributing to raw water conservation, thereby making a greater volume of fresh water available for nobler purposes, and reducing wastewater treatment. This study evaluated a proposed system of water reuse at a Kraft pulp and paper plant in Brazil, based on a survey of water quality required by its consumption points, supplied by its water treatment plant. Results after ultrafiltration included: turbidity of 0,3 NTU and pH 7,5, average values of BOD 66,4 mg/L, COD 9,6 mg/L and the colour of 280,5 ppm Pt were measured after ultrafiltration. The ultrafiltered wastewater was considered available for reuse, and its quality was compared with that of the water supplied by the water treatment plant, which provided for the classification of potential reuse points. Water colour was identified as the limiting factor for reuse; thus the reuse points were two Kraft paper machines, and the water flow to the liquid ring formations that generate the vacuums inside nineteen pumps for these two machines. The advantages of this proposal for water reuse include: ultrafiltered water quality sufficient for the vacuum pumps, the small distance between the point of reused water generation and the paper machines section, and the reused water has no contact with the final product. The calculated cost and return time for the water reuse system was US$ 607.020,00 in 15 years.
EPIGONE: the argus on the daily operation of throttle structures
Authors: Dirckx G. , Wambecq T. , Qvick A. , Weemaes M.
Published: January 2014

This study presents the development of an Early Warning System (EWS) called EPIGONE focusing on the detection of dry weather overflows in the vicinity of throttle structures in sewer systems. Throttle structures are considered as vital parts of a sewer system as they are control sections limiting flow rates to a designed operational value. Because these structures are by definition prone to potential clogging or blockages, a close follow-up of the daily operation by an EWS facilitates increased vigilance or even alarm. Primary goal of EPIGONE is to alert operators and thus allow fast intervention in case of suspected failures of these structures within a settled timeframe. EPIGONE combines overflow water level measurements with rainfall radar information to determine Combined Sewer Overflow (CSO) activity during dry weather as this dual condition will indicate malfunctioning. This combination of measurements was found to be the most cost effective set-up to deploy on a large scale. Water level data are recorded and logged on-site and sent to a central controller via GSM/GPRS, where an algorithm determines dry weather overflow conditions. Rainfall radar data are used as criterion to decide on dry weather conditions. From there on alarms are sent out to multiple recipients via e-mail and/or text messages (SMS). Next to this, it is obvious that this system can also be used for ‘regular’ wet weather CSO monitoring.
Application of treated wastewater for cultivation of carnations
Authors: Petousi I. , Stavroulaki N. , Fountoulakis M. , Papadimitriou M. , Stentiford E.I. , Manios T.
Published: January 2014

The reuse of domestic wastewater for irrigation of floriculture crops is a very promising option in water-scarce areas. On the other hand, there are concerns about the effect of that kind low-quality water on plant growth. The present work examined the effect of irrigation with several type of treated domestic wastewater on production of carnations. Potted plants were irrigated with primary treated, secondary treated and tertiary treated wastewater as well as with water and water with fertilizer. The results shown that carnations can be irrigated with treated wastewater as the growth and quality of plant is equal or better compared with water. Furthermore, it was found that nutrients and micro-elements contained in treated wastewater had as a result positive effect on characteristics of carnations.
Adsorption isotherm studies of the simultaneous removal of turbidity and hardness by natural coagulants
Authors: Nirmala Rani C. , Talikoti Rajashekar
Published: January 2014

Coagulation being a cost-effective method is best suited for water treatment in rural areas. Natural coagulants suited for the simultaneous removal of turbidity and hardness were investigated. In this study, the seeds of Strychnos Potatorum, the pads of Cactus Opuntia and mucilage extracted from the fruits of Coccinia Indica in synthetic turbid water were used to promote coagulation. The mechanism of turbidity removal by the use of natural coagulants was based on adsorption and charge neutralization. In addition, the adsorption mechanism of hardness removal in hard water conforms to both Langmuir and Freundlich adsorption models. Therefore, for hard water the natural coagulants tend to adsorb hardness and form a net like structure followed by turbidity removal by sweep flocculation. The potential of these natural coagulants were obtained by means of jar test study with initial turbidities of 192 NTU (High) and 28 NTU (Low). It was found that the natural coagulants can be more efficiently used for high turbid waters. Hardness removal efficiency was found to increase with the increase in coagulant dosage.
Pretreatment for micro- or ultra-filtration/reverse osmosis water reuse: experience from Mid-Eastern Australia
Authors: Solley David , Rhodes Bradley , Hordern Mark , Roux Annalie
Published: January 2014

In the past decade, six micro- or ultra-filtration/reverse osmosis (RO) reuse treatment plants, ranging in capacity from 4 to 100 ML/d, have been constructed in South East Queensland, Australia. The plants produce water for a variety of purposes, from industrial use through to indirect potable reuse. The feed water for all these reuse plants is wastewater treated to a secondary biological nutrient removal standard with secondary clarification only.

Two different pretreatment approaches have been adopted ahead of the membrane processes, with varying objectives and success. These pretreatment approaches fall into two broad process types; those that directly feed treated wastewater onto the MF or UF (without pretreatment other than micro-screening), and those with chemical clarification pretreatment prior to MF or UF.

The reuse plants that include pretreatment ahead of MF/RO are designed to maximise the production of reuse water from the available wastewater. As a result, the recovery adopted is 82%, resulting in 83 to 85% recovery being required from the three-stage RO process. In comparison, the reuse plants that have no pretreatment prior to MF/RO generally operate at lower RO recovery of about 75%.

The paper examines the design, performance and operational experience of these two different water reuse treatment plant types. Chemical clarification pretreatment provides stable operation of high recovery RO processes, with low CIP requirements. However, these processes may require design and operation that is outside normal practice. In comparison, the operation of reuse plants without pretreatment has resulted in lower RO and plant recovery rates being adopted, and potentially higher RO CIP requirements. Long-term operation appears possible, with low maintenance requirements for the MF system. Routine chemical cleans of both the MF/UF and RO membranes at these smaller plants, may lead to improved process performance.
Recent infection testing algorithm (RITA) applied to new HIV diagnoses in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, 2009 to 2011
Authors: Aghaizu A , Murphy G , Tosswill J , DeAngelis D , Charlett A , Gill O  N , Ward H , Lattimore S , Simmons R D , Delpech V
Published: January 2014

Binary file ES_Abstracts_Final_ECDC.txt matches
Can Community Colleges Afford to Improve Completion? Measuring the Cost and Efficiency Consequences of Reform
Authors: Belfield Clive , Crosta Peter , Jenkins Davis
Published: January 2014

Community colleges are under pressure to improve completion rates and efficiency despite limited economic evidence on how to do so and the consequences of different reform strategies. Here, we set out an economic model of student course pathways linked to college expenditures and revenues. Using detailed data from a single college, we calculate baseline efficiency and differences in efficiency for students who follow different pathways. We simulate changes in output, expenditures, revenues, net revenues, and efficiency assuming that the college meets performance targets. We find substantial differences in efficiency across pathways and significant differences in efficiency across strategies to help students complete college. The model has wide practical application for community colleges.
True for Your School? How Changing Reputations Alter Demand for Selective U.S. Colleges
Authors: Alter Molly , Reback Randall
Published: January 2014

There is a comprehensive literature documenting how colleges’ tuition, financial aid packages, and academic reputations influence students’ application and enrollment decisions. Far less is known about how quality-of-life reputations and peer institutions’ reputations affect these decisions. This article investigates these issues using data from two prominent college guidebook series to measure changes in reputations. We use information published annually by the Princeton Review—the best-selling college guidebook that formally categorizes colleges based on both academic and quality-of-life indicators—and the U.S. News and World Report—the most famous rankings of U.S. undergraduate programs. Our findings suggest that changes in academic and quality-of-life reputations affect the number of applications received by a college and the academic competitiveness and geographic diversity of the ensuing incoming freshman class. Colleges receive fewer applications when peer universities earn high academic ratings. However, unfavorable quality-of-life ratings for peers are followed by decreases in the college’s own application pool and the academic competitiveness of its incoming class. This suggests that potential applicants often begin their search process by shopping for groups of colleges where non-pecuniary benefits may be relatively high.
From the Desk of Editor-in-Chief Vol.3(2)
Authors: Editor The
Published: January 2014

No abstract availableDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njr.v3i2.9602 Nepalese Journal of Radiology Vol.3(2)July-Dec, 2013
Skeletal Dysplasia (Sclerosing dysplasias – Part I)
Authors: Subbarao K
Published: January 2014

No abstract availableDOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njr.v3i2.9603   Nepalese Journal of Radiology Vol.3(2)July-Dec, 2013: 1-10
Blunt Splenic Injury: Efficacy of Superselective Splenic Artery Embolization
Authors: Chou CP , Kim YH , Tresoldi S , Tikh EI , Baker S , Kandarpa K , Kim D
Published: January 2014

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of superselective splenic artery embolization (SAE) using a coaxial catheter technique in patients with blunt splenic injury. Patient Selection and Methods: We retrospectively reviewed cases of 24 consecutive patients undergoing splenic angiography for blunt splenic injury at a Level 1 trauma center. After angiographic confirmation of splenic injury, superselective SAE was performed using gelfoam pledgets (n=15), with or without coils, and liquid embolic materials (n=9). All procedures were performed through a microcatheter advanced coaxially through a selective angiographic catheter. Severity of splenic injury was graded using CT imaging. The angiographic findings were retrospectively divided into four groups. Outcome measures included technical success, complications and recurrence of symptoms requiring additional intervention or surgery despite embolization. Results: All cases were technically successful, with immediate occlusion of targeted vessels after embolization. One patient underwent distal pancreatectomy- splenectomy 3 days after splenic embolization due to symptoms related to distal pancreatic injury, unrelated to the angiographic intervention. A second embolization was performed 1-3 days after initial embolization in 4 patients with clinical suspicion of re-bleeding. One of these four patients underwent splenectomy 3 days after the second embolization, during exploration for associated bowel and diaphragmatic injury. A second patient underwent splenectomy 1 day after a second embolization due to need for continued transfusions. The splenic salvage rate was not significantly related to CT grade of splenic injury (p=1.0) or angiographic classification (p=0.8). Conclusion: Superselective SAE can be performed as a safe alternative to splenectomy in patients with blunt splenic trauma, particularly when there is no additional major organ injury. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njr.v3i2.9606 Nepalese Journal of Radiology Vol.3(2)July-Dec, 2013: 37-48
Reject Analysis in Conventional Radiography
Authors: Usha Mr , Bhargava SK , Bhatt S
Published: January 2014

Quality assurance in diagnostic radiology is of paramount importance to provide quality services leading to better diagnostic yield and thus accurate and timely treatment. Reject analysis study was done in conventional radiography to find out the incidence and the causative factors so that necessary steps be taken to avoid these factors resulting in less repetition of films thus reducing cost and unnecessary radiation to patients and personnel working in radiology department.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njr.v3i2.9612 Nepalese Journal of Radiology Vol.3(2)July-Dec, 2013: 65-67
Limitations of Imaging, Medico-Legal Issues and the Importance of Published Medical Literature
Authors: Sohoni CA
Published: January 2014

No abstract available.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njr.v3i2.9613   Nepalese Journal of Radiology Vol.3(2)July-Dec, 2013: 68-71
Isolated Gallbladder Perforation in Cases of Blunt Trauma Abdomen
Authors: Gupta MK , Ahmad K , Kumar A , Santhalia PK , Joshi BR , Rauniyar RK
Published: January 2014

Isolated perforation of gallbladder (GB) following blunt trauma abdomen is extremely rare and may pose a diagnostic challenge. Early diagnosis and treatment is of paramount importance to reduce morbidity and mortality associated with GB perforation. We present two cases of isolated GB perforation in patients of blunt abdominal trauma diagnosed on multi-detector computed tomography (MDCT) which was corroborated by bile stained peritoneal aspirate and subsequently confirmed by surgery. Both the patients underwent open cholecystectomy with good outcome.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njr.v3i2.9614   Nepalese Journal of Radiology Vol.3(2)July-Dec, 2013: 72-76
An Intraarticular Osteoid Osteoma: A Case Report & Review of Literature
Authors: Pant AR , Gupta MK , Santhalia PK , Ahmad K , Kalawar RPS , Rauniyar RK
Published: January 2014

Osteoid osteoma (OO) is one of the common benign bone tumors but an uncommon cause of musculoskeletal pain. Its diagnosis is usually not difficult in classic clinical setup and in typical location in diaphyseal region. However, the diagnosis of juxta or intraarticular osteoid osteoma (IAOO) is challenging because of atypical clinical presentation responsible for delay in diagnosis and treatment. We report a rare case of IAOO as a cause of chronic shoulder pain to make clinician aware to help in its early diagnosis and management. A 28-year-old woman presented with chronic debilitating right shoulder pain. The diagnosis was established on CTscan after 2 years of onset of symptoms because of atypical clinical presentation as a chronic monoarthritis of the shoulder. CTscan demonstrated radiolucent nidus with central calcification with areas of surrounding sclerosis. The tumor was excised surgically and histopathologic examination confirmed the diagnosis of osteoid osteoma. So, in the scenario of an unexplained chronic monoarthritis, the possibility of intraarticular osteoid osteoma should also be kept in mind. CT-scan remains the investigation of choice for demonstrating the nidus and surgical exicision relieves the symptoms.  DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njr.v3i2.9615   Nepalese Journal of Radiology Vol.3(2)July-Dec, 2013: 77-80
Unusual Cause for Pediatric Chest Pain: MDCT Evaluation of Single Coronary Artery
Authors: Gangadhar K
Published: January 2014

Single coronary artery (SCA) is a rare congenital anomaly in which the entire coronary system arises from a solitary ostium. Anomalies of the coronary arteries are rare conditions that are often asymptomatic. However, if perfusion by the coronary artery is impaired, this anomaly can lead to a life-threatening situation, such as myocardial ischemia or infarction, and sudden cardiac death. We report a case of single coronary artery in a six year old girl who presented with acute chest pain.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njr.v3i2.9616    Nepalese Journal of Radiology Vol.3(2)July-Dec, 2013: 81-84
Elbow Tuberculosis - A Case Report
Authors: Thimmaiah VT , Shetty C , Deepashree Dr.
Published: January 2014

Mycobacterial infections of the upper extremities are rare with musculoskeletal system involvement in 1-3% of tuberculosis patients and accounts for 10% of all extra-pulmonary tuberculosis. Elbow joint is most frequently involved in upper extremity accounting for 2 to 5% of all skeletal localizations. We report a case of extraspinal musculoskeletal Tuberculosis involving right elbow joint. Early diagnosis and treatment is important to prevent serious joint and bone destruction. Although biopsy is required to make definitive diagnosis, it is imperative that radiologists understand the typical distribution patterns and imaging manifestations. Reviews of literature with emphasis on imaging features are studied.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njr.v3i2.9618 Nepalese Journal of Radiology Vol.3(2)July-Dec, 2013: 88-91
Abernethy Malformation and the Spectrum of Imaging Findings: A Case Report
Authors: Gangadhar K , Nair SV , Sunnapwar A , Chintapalli KN
Published: January 2014

Congenital extrahepatic porto systemic shunt (CEPS) is a rare condition in which the porto mesenteric blood drains into a systemic vein, bypassing the liver through a complete or partial shunt. It is commonly associated with multiple congenital anomalies. A diagnosis of Abernethy malformation is made by non-invasive cross-sectional imaging techniques such as Doppler ultrasound, CT or MRI, which show the shunt and intrahepatic portal vein branches. We report a case presenting with psychological issues, systemic hypertension, upper extremity deformities, liver lesions and portal hypertension. Usually the patients are diagnosed in childhood, in our case the patient is a middle aged woman. This case report shows the importance of imaging in diagnosis of this condition and presentation of the patient with portal hypertension which is rare.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njr.v3i2.9622 Nepalese Journal of Radiology Vol.3(2)July-Dec, 2013: 97-102
Intrapulmonary Bronchogenic Cyst
Authors: Ahmad K , Rauniyar RK , Gupta MK
Published: January 2014

No abstract available.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njr.v3i2.9623 Nepalese Journal of Radiology Vol.3(2)July-Dec, 2013: 103
Conus medullaris and cauda equina tumors: clinical presentation, prognosis, and outcome after surgical treatment
Authors: Wostrack Maria , Shiban Ehab , Obermueller Thomas , Gempt Jens , Meyer Bernhard , Ringel Florian
Published: January 2014

Object

Intradural cauda equina and conus medullaris tumors (CECMTs) are rare. Only a few large clinical series exist to date. Therefore, clinical symptoms, surgical complications, and outcomes are poorly understood. The aim of the present study was to evaluate outcome after surgery of CECMTs and to identify the factors associated with a worse clinical prognosis based on the results of a series with sufficiently high number of cases.

Methods

All cases of intradural CECMTs treated surgically at the authors' department between March 2006 and May 2012 were retrospectively evaluated. Arachnoid cysts and multifocal tumors were excluded. Sixty-eight adult patients met the inclusion criteria (35 female and 33 male patients; median age 56 years). Follow-up data were available for 72% (n = 49) in a median period of 9 months.

Results

Overall, 18 tumors were located intramedullary and 50 extramedullary. The majority were nerve sheath tumors (n = 27), ependymomas (n = 17), and meningiomas (n = 9). The most common preoperative symptom was pain. The rate of new transient postoperative impairment was 18% (n = 12), and new permanent deficits were observed in only 6% (n = 4). Overall neurological improvement was achieved in 62%. The reversibility of preoperative symptoms was related to the interval between the time of symptom onset and the time of surgery and to the presence of preoperative neurological deficits. Surgery of ependymoma and carcinoma metastases was associated with a higher rate of morbidity.

Conclusions

Intradural CECMTs present as a group of tumors with varying histological features and clinical symptoms. Symptomatic manifestation is usually unspecific, mimicking degenerative lumbar spine syndromes. Despite a significant risk of transient deterioration, early surgery is advisable because more than 94% of patients maintain at least their preoperative status and more than 60% improve during follow-up. The reversibility of preoperative symptoms is related to the duration between symptom onset and surgery and to the presence of preoperative neurological deficits. The prognosis for recovery from cauda equina or conus medullaris syndrome is less favorable than for other deficits. Surgery of ependymoma is associated with a higher morbidity rate than other benign entities.
Use of artificial neural networks to predict surgical satisfaction in patients with lumbar spinal canal stenosis
Authors: Azimi Parisa , Benzel Edward C. , Shahzadi Sohrab , Azhari Shirzad , Mohammadi Hasan Reza
Published: January 2014

Object

The purpose of this study was to develop an artificial neural network (ANN) model for predicting 2-year surgical satisfaction, and to compare the new model with traditional predictive tools in patients with lumbar spinal canal stenosis.

Methods

The 2 prediction models included an ANN and a logistic regression (LR) model. The patient age, sex, duration of symptoms, walking distance, visual analog scale scores of leg pain or numbness, the Japanese Orthopaedic Association score, the Neurogenic Claudication Outcome Score, and the stenosis ratio values were determined as the input variables for the ANN and LR models that were developed. Patient surgical satisfaction was recorded using a standardized measure. The ANNs were fed patient data to predict 2-year surgical satisfaction based on several input variables. Sensitivity analysis was applied to the ANN model to identify the important variables. The receiver operating characteristic–area under curve (ROC-AUC), Hosmer-Lemeshow statistics, and accuracy rate were calculated for evaluating the 2 models.

Results

A total of 168 patients (59 male, 109 female; mean age 59.8 ± 11.6 years) were divided into training (n = 84), testing (n = 42), and validation (n = 42) data sets. Postsurgical satisfaction was 88.7% at 2-year follow-up. The stenosis ratio was the important variable selected by the ANN. The ANN model displayed a better accuracy rate in 96.9% of patients, a better Hosmer-Lemeshow statistic in 42.4% of patients, and a better ROC-AUC in 80% of patients, compared with the LR model.

Conclusions

The findings show that an ANN can predict 2-year surgical satisfaction for use in clinical application and is more accurate compared with an LR model.
A Draft Genome Sequence for Ensete ventricosum, the Drought-Tolerant “Tree Against Hunger”
Authors: Harrison James , Moore Karen , Paszkiewicz Konrad , Jones Thomas , Grant Murray , Ambacheew Daniel , Muzemil Sadik , Studholme David
Published: January 2014

We present a draft genome sequence for enset (Ensete ventricosum) available via the Sequence Read Archive (accession number SRX202265) and GenBank (accession number AMZH01. Enset feeds 15 million people in Ethiopia, but is arguably the least studied African crop. Our sequence data suggest a genome size of approximately 547 megabases, similar to the 523-megabase genome of the closely related banana (Musa acuminata). At least 1.8% of the annotated M. acuminata genes are not conserved in E. ventricosum. Furthermore, enset contains genes not present in banana, including reverse transcriptases and virus-like sequences as well as a homolog of the RPP8-like resistance gene. We hope that availability of genome-wide sequence data will stimulate and accelerate research on this important but neglected crop.
Second-Order Risk Constraints in Decision Analysis
Authors: Ekenberg Love , Danielson Mats , Larsson Aron , Sundgren David
Published: January 2014

Recently, representations and methods aimed at analysing decision problems where probabilities and values (utilities) are associated with distributions over them (second-order representations) have been suggested. In this paper we present an approach to how imprecise information can be modelled by means of second-order distributions and how a risk evaluation process can be elaborated by integrating procedures for numerically imprecise probabilities and utilities. We discuss some shortcomings of the use of the principle of maximising the expected utility and of utility theory in general, and offer remedies by the introduction of supplementary decision rules based on a concept of risk constraints taking advantage of second-order distributions.
Nano and Microscale Topographies for the Prevention of Bacterial Surface Fouling
Authors: Graham Mary , Cady Nathaniel
Published: January 2014

Bacterial surface fouling is problematic for a wide range of applications and industries, including, but not limited to medical devices (implants, replacement joints, stents, pacemakers), municipal infrastructure (pipes, wastewater treatment), food production (food processing surfaces, processing equipment), and transportation (ship hulls, aircraft fuel tanks). One method to combat bacterial biofouling is to modify the topographical structure of the surface in question, thereby limiting the ability of individual cells to attach to the surface, colonize, and form biofilms. Multiple research groups have demonstrated that micro and nanoscale topographies significantly reduce bacterial biofouling, for both individual cells and bacterial biofilms. Antifouling strategies that utilize engineered topographical surface features with well-defined dimensions and shapes have demonstrated a greater degree of controllable inhibition over initial cell attachment, in comparison to undefined, texturized, or porous surfaces. This review article will explore the various approaches and techniques used by researches, including work from our own group, and the underlying physical properties of these highly structured, engineered micro/nanoscale topographies that significantly impact bacterial surface attachment.
Defect Detection for Wheel-Bearings with Time-Spectral Kurtosis and Entropy
Authors: Chen Bin , Yan Zhaoli , Chen Wei
Published: January 2014

Wheel-bearings easily acquire defects due to their high-speed operating conditions and constant metal-metal contact, so defect detection is of great importance for railroad safety. The conventional spectral kurtosis (SK) technique provides an optimal bandwidth for envelope demodulation. However, this technique may cause false detections when processing real vibration signals for wheel-bearings, because of sparse interference impulses. In this paper, a novel defect detection method with entropy, time-spectral kurtosis (TSK) and support vector machine (SVM) is proposed. In this method, the possible outliers in the short time Fourier transform (STFT) amplitude series are first estimated and preprocessed with information entropy. Then the method extends the SK technique to the time-domain, and extracts defective frequencies from reconstructed vibration signals by TSK filtering. Finally, the multi-class SVM was applied to classify bearing defects. The effectiveness of the proposed method is illustrated using real wheel-bearing vibration signals. Experimental results show that the proposed method provides a better performance in defect frequency detection and classification than the conventional SK-based envelope demodulation.
Spatial Pattern of Populus euphratica Forest Change as Affected by Water Conveyance in the Lower Tarim River
Authors: Peng Shuhong , Chen Xi , Qian Jing , Liu Shuguang
Published: January 2014

To restore declining species, including Populus euphratica and other riparian communities, in the river ecosystem of the lower Tarim River, the ecological water conveyance project (EWCP), as a part of an integrated water resource management plan, was implemented in 2000. The EWCP aims to schedule and manage the water resources in the upper reaches and transfer water to the lower reaches by a series of intermittent water deliveries. The delivered water flows along a modified river channel and nourishes riparian communities by river overflow flooding. Since it began, it has caused a fierce debate over the response of riparian vegetation to the water conveyance scheme. This study focuses on the lower Tarim River, where Populus euphratica forests have undergone watering, due to the EWCP. Twelve Landsat sensor images and one IKONOS satellite imagery acquired between 1999 and 2009 were used to monitor the change in Populus euphratica forests. Bi-temporal change detection and temporal trajectory analysis were employed to represent the spatial pattern of the forest change. Field investigations were used to analyze the driving forces behind forest change from the perspectives of anthropogenic activities and natural forces. The results showed that Populus euphratica forest have been declining in area, which implies that ecological risks have been increased during the watering process. However, forests areas have increased in the regions where the water supply is abundant, and vice versa.
On Robust Methodologies for Managing Public Health Care Systems
Authors: Nimmagadda Shastri , Dreher Heinz
Published: January 2014

Authors focus on ontology-based multidimensional data warehousing and mining methodologies, addressing various issues on organizing, reporting and documenting diabetic cases and their associated ailments, including causalities. Map and other diagnostic data views, depicting similarity and comparison of attributes, extracted from warehouses, are used for understanding the ailments, based on gender, age, geography, food-habits and other hereditary event attributes. In addition to rigor on data mining and visualization, an added focus is on values of interpretation of data views, from processed full-bodied diagnosis, subsequent prescription and appropriate medications. The proposed methodology, is a robust back-end application, for web-based patient-doctor consultations and e-Health care management systems through which, billions of dollars spent on medical services, can be saved, in addition to improving quality of life and average life span of a person. Government health departments and agencies, private and government medical practitioners including social welfare organizations are typical users of these systems.
Developing a GIS-Based Visual-Acoustic 3D Simulation for Wind Farm Assessment
Authors: Manyoky Madeleine , Wissen Hayek Ulrike , Heutschi Kurt , Pieren Reto , Grêt-Regamey Adrienne
Published: January 2014

Public landscape impact assessment of renewable energy installations is crucial for their acceptance. Thus, a sound assessment basis is crucial in the implementation process. For valuing landscape perception, the visual sense is the dominant human sensory component. However, the visual sense provides only partial information about our environment. Especially when it comes to wind farm assessments, noise produced by the rotating turbine blades is another major impact factor. Therefore, an integrated visual and acoustic assessment of wind farm projects is needed to allow lay people to perceive their impact adequately. This paper presents an approach of linking spatially referenced auralizations to a GIS-based virtual 3D landscape model. We demonstrate how to utilize a game engine for 3D visualization of wind parks, using geodata as a modeling basis. In particular, the controlling and recording of specific parameters in the game engine is shown in order to establish a link to the acoustical model. The resulting prototype has high potential to complement conventional tools for an improved public impact assessment of wind farms.
Clinical Evaluation of Extracellular ADMA Concentrations in Human Blood and Adipose Tissue
Authors: May Marcus , Batkai Sandor , Zörner Alexander , Tsikas Dimitrios , Jordan Jens , Engeli Stefan
Published: January 2014

Circulating asymmetrical dimethylarginine (ADMA), an endogenous inhibitor of nitric oxide synthesis, has been proposed as a biomarker for clinical outcome. Dimethylarginine dimethylaminohydrolase (DDAH) is the main enzyme responsible for ADMA metabolism and elimination. Adipose tissue ADMA concentrations and DDAH activity and their role in diabetes and obesity have not yet been investigated. In this study, we evaluated clinical microdialysis in combination with a sensitive analytical method (GC-MS/MS) to measure ADMA concentrations in extracellular fluid. Adipose tissue ADMA concentrations were assessed before and during an oral glucose tolerance test in lean healthy subjects and subjects with diabetes (n = 4 each), and in morbidly obese subjects before and after weight loss of 30 kg (n = 7). DDAH activity was determined in subcutaneous and visceral adipose tissue obtained during laparoscopic surgery (n = 5 paired samples). Mean interstitial ADMA concentrations did not differ between study populations (healthy 0.17 ± 0.03 µM; diabetic 0.21 ± 0.03 µM; morbidly obese 0.16 ± 0.01 and 0.17 ± 0.01 µM before and after weight loss, respectively). We did not observe any response of interstitial ADMA concentrations to the oral glucose challenge. Adipose tissue DDAH activity was negligible compared to liver tissue. Thus, adipose tissue ADMA plays a minor role in NO-dependent regulation of adipose tissue blood flow and metabolism.
Rapid and Efficient Functionalized Ionic Liquid-Catalyzed Aldol Condensation Reactions Associated with Microwave Irradiation
Authors: Wang Chang , Liu Jing , Leng Wenguang , Gao Yanan
Published: January 2014

Five quaternary ammonium ionic liquid (IL) and two tetrabutylphosphonium ILs were prepared and characterized. An environmentally benign and convenient functionalized ionic liquid catalytic system was thus explored in the aldol condensation reactions of aromatic aldehydes with acetone. The aldol reactions proceeded more efficiently through microwave-assisted heating than through conventional thermal heating. The yield of products obtained under microwave heating for 30 min was approximately 90%, and the ILs can be recovered and reused at least five times without apparent loss of activity. In addition, this catalytic system can be successfully extended to the Henry reactions.