bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Desempenho produtivo de búfalos em sistemas silvipastoris na Amazônia brasileira
Authors: Magalhães João Avelar , Townsend Cláudio Ramalho , Costa Newton de Lucena , Pereira Ricardo Gomes de Araújo
Published: May 2017

In this work the productive performance of buffaloes was evaluated under grasslands submitted to different conditions of natural shading in the Brazilian’s Amazonia. The experimental design was completely randomized with three treatments (T1 - buffaloes maintained in paddocks without shading; T2 - buffaloes maintained in paddocks with partial shading constituted by native forest and, T3 - buffaloes maintained in paddocks under total shading constituted by mature rubber). The trees of the rubber had, approximately, 12 years old and were established in spacing of 3.0 x 7.0 m. In all treatments the grassland was constituted by Brachiaria brizantha cv. Marandu. During the dry period (June to September), the largest weight gains were verified in the T3 (0.575 kg/an/day and 34.5 kg/ha) and T2 (0.472 kg/an/day and 28.3 kg/ha), which didn't differ to each other (P>0.05). With relationship to the gain/ha, the higher value was obtained with the T1 (68.69 kg/ha). During the rainy period (October to May), the weight gains/an/day and for animal/period they were not affected (P>0.05) by the appraised treatments. However, the largest weight/ha gain was registered in the T1 (215.0 kg/ha). On the average, the stocking rates and the dry matter available were of 0.97; 0.70 and 0.80 UA/ha and, 1.86; 1.82 and 1.75 t/ha, respectively for T1, T2 and T3.
Seleção de bovinos de corte através da técnica de ultrassonografia
Authors: Silva Mérik Rocha , Paula Edson Júnior Heitor de , Cruz Cristiano da , Cervelati Karina Ferro , Pinheiro Marcelo da Silveira Meirelles
Published: May 2017

Currently, the Brazilian beef cattle industry is experiencing a good time shopping, get access to many markets. Our country has growth in grain production and improvement in export structures, ie, everything goes well. However, farmers should avoid to accommodate and take advantage of the stability to improve their products, improving technology and quality in beef. This paper presents a summary of important information for selecting animals from the data already obtained by the technique of ultrasonography (U.S.). One way to accomplish the improvement of meat product is to promote genetic improvement of beef cattle in this case through the selection of the best training for cattle herds over the carcass traits. We approached the volume of Brazilian livestock and local selection in cattle: genetic correlations, heritabilities and carcass yield.
Fast and high-fidelity entangling gate through parametrically modulated longitudinal coupling
Authors: Royer Baptiste , Grimsmo Arne L. , Didier Nicolas , Blais Alexandre
Published: May 2017

We investigate an approach to universal quantum computation based on the modulation of longitudinal qubit-oscillator coupling. We show how to realize a controlled-phase gate by simultaneously modulating the longitudinal coupling of two qubits to a common oscillator mode. In contrast to the more familiar transversal qubit-oscillator coupling, the magnitude of the effective qubit-qubit interaction does not rely on a small perturbative parameter. As a result, this effective interaction strength can be made large, leading to short gate times and high gate fidelities. We moreover show how the gate infidelity can be exponentially suppressed with squeezing and how the entangling gate can be generalized to qubits coupled to separate oscillators. Our proposal can be realized in multiple physical platforms for quantum computing, including superconducting and spin qubits.
The Market Valuation of the Permanent Book-to-Tax Differences Generated by Stock-Based Compensation Awards
Authors: Brushwood James D. , Johnston Derek , Kutcher Lisa
Published: May 2017

We examine the market valuation of the annual change in the additional paid-in capital (APIC) tax pool, a financial statement account that captures the permanent book-to-tax differences related to stock-based compensation awards. Evidence from prior compensation studies demonstrates that the tax deduction from the settlement of stock-based awards, rather than the recorded book expense, is the true economic cost of the awards. If this is true, then the APIC tax pool should be negatively related to firm value. Conversely, previous tax avoidance research suggests that this method of tax avoidance should be positively associated with firm value since it reduces cash tax payments. Using hand-collected data, we document a negative relation between the change in the APIC tax pool and cumulative abnormal returns surrounding the 10-K filing date. This result is consistent with the notion that investors use a tax-related financial statement account (i.e., the APIC tax pool) to incorporate the true economic cost of stock-based compensation awards into market values.
Audit Reviewers' Judgments in Multiple Client Audit Environments
Authors: Bhattacharjee Sudip , Maletta Mario J. , Moreno Kimberly K.
Published: May 2017

This study replicates Bhattacharjee, Maletta, and Moreno (2007), who find that audit preparers are susceptible to contrast effects in a multi-client environment. We demonstrate that auditors in the role of reviewers are also susceptible to contrast effects from a prior client. Audit reviewers' assessments of internal audit quality of a current client were significantly affected by the quality of the internal audit group of a client they previously reviewed. Specifically, when auditors first reviewed a client with a weak internal audit group they assessed the subsequent moderate internal audit group as being of higher quality than when they first reviewed a prior client with a strong internal audit group or did not review a prior client. Reviewers' documentation of evidence was also influenced by comparative information from the prior client. These results corroborate the key findings of Bhattacharjee et al. (2007) and confirm audit reviewers' susceptibility to contrast effects.
Management Control for Stimulating Different Types of Creativity: The Role of Budgets
Authors: Cools Martine , Stouthuysen Kristof , Van den Abbeele Alexandra
Published: May 2017

In this paper, we examine the role of budgets as a central instrument within the management control system (MCS) in a creative context. In particular we investigate whether creative firms characterized by different kinds of creativity use their budgets in a similar way. We hereby distinguish between expected creativity (for open, self-discovered problems) and responsive creativity (for closed, presented problems) (Unsworth 2001) and investigate the interactive versus diagnostic use of budgets (Simons 1990, 1991, 1995). Based on a comparative study involving four creative firms, we find that creative firms, being mainly characterized by expected creativity, use their budgets in a more interactive way. In creative firms in which responsive creativity is most important, the budgets are used in a rather diagnostic way. This study contributes to the management control literature by acknowledging that a diagnostic use of budgets does not per se stifle creativity. Instead, it is important to understand that the specific creative context might have implications for the way in which MCS instruments are used to sustain the creative process.
Mechanisms of Insulin Resistance in Primary and Secondary Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver
Authors: Jelenik Tomas , Kaul Kirti , Séquaris Gilles , Flögel Ulrich , Phielix Esther , Kotzka Jörg , Knebel Birgit , Fahlbusch Pia , Hörbelt Tina , Lehr Stefan , Reinbeck Anna Lena , Müller-Wieland Dirk , Esposito Irene , Shulman Gerald I. , Szendroedi Julia , Roden Michael
Published: May 2017

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease is associated with hepatic insulin resistance and may result primarily from increased hepatic de novo lipogenesis (PRIM) or secondarily from adipose tissue lipolysis (SEC). We studied mice with hepatocyte- or adipocyte-specific SREBP-1c overexpression as models of PRIM and SEC. PRIM mice featured increased lipogenic gene expression in the liver and adipose tissue. Their selective, liver-specific insulin resistance was associated with increased C18:1-diacylglycerol content and protein kinase Cε translocation. SEC mice had decreased lipogenesis mediated by hepatic cholesterol responsive element–binding protein and featured portal/lobular inflammation along with total, whole-body insulin resistance. Hepatic mitochondrial respiration transiently increased and declined with aging along with higher muscle reactive oxygen species production. In conclusion, hepatic insulin resistance originates from lipotoxicity but not from lower mitochondrial capacity, which can even transiently adapt to increased peripheral lipolysis. Peripheral insulin resistance is prevented during increased hepatic lipogenesis only if adipose tissue lipid storage capacity is preserved.
A Genome-Wide Association Study of IVGTT-Based Measures of First-Phase Insulin Secretion Refines the Underlying Physiology of Type 2 Diabetes Variants
Authors: Wood Andrew R. , Jonsson Anna , Jackson Anne U. , Wang Nan , van Leewen Nienke , Palmer Nicholette D. , Kobes Sayuko , Deelen Joris , Boquete-Vilarino Lorena , Paananen Jussi , Stančáková Alena , Boomsma Dorret I. , de Geus Eco J.C. , Eekhoff Elisabeth M.W. , Fritsche Andreas , Kramer Mark , Nijpels Giel , Simonis-Bik Annemarie , van Haeften Timon W. , Mahajan Anubha , Boehnke Michael , Bergman Richard N. , Tuomilehto Jaakko , Collins Francis S. , Mohlke Karen L. , Banasik Karina , Groves Christopher J. , McCarthy Mark I. ,   Diabetes Research on Patient Stratification (DIRECT), Pearson Ewan R. , Natali Andrea , Mari Andrea , Buchanan Thomas A. , Taylor Kent D. , Xiang Anny H. , Gjesing Anette P. , Grarup Niels , Eiberg Hans , Pedersen Oluf , Chen Yii-Derr , Laakso Markku , Norris Jill M. , Smith Ulf , Wagenknecht Lynne E. , Baier Leslie , Bowden Donald W. , Hansen Torben , Walker Mark , Watanabe Richard M. , ‘t Hart Leen M. , Hanson Robert L. , Frayling Timothy M.
Published: May 2017

Understanding the physiological mechanisms by which common variants predispose to type 2 diabetes requires large studies with detailed measures of insulin secretion and sensitivity. Here we performed the largest genome-wide association study of first-phase insulin secretion, as measured by intravenous glucose tolerance tests, using up to 5,567 individuals without diabetes from 10 studies. We aimed to refine the mechanisms of 178 known associations between common variants and glycemic traits and identify new loci. Thirty type 2 diabetes or fasting glucose–raising alleles were associated with a measure of first-phase insulin secretion at P < 0.05 and provided new evidence, or the strongest evidence yet, that insulin secretion, intrinsic to the islet cells, is a key mechanism underlying the associations at the HNF1A, IGF2BP2, KCNQ1, HNF1B, VPS13C/C2CD4A, FAF1, PTPRD, AP3S2, KCNK16, MAEA, LPP, WFS1, and TMPRSS6 loci. The fasting glucose–raising allele near PDX1, a known key insulin transcription factor, was strongly associated with lower first-phase insulin secretion but has no evidence for an effect on type 2 diabetes risk. The diabetes risk allele at TCF7L2 was associated with a stronger effect on peak insulin response than on C-peptide–based insulin secretion rate, suggesting a possible additional role in hepatic insulin clearance or insulin processing. In summary, our study provides further insight into the mechanisms by which common genetic variation influences type 2 diabetes risk and glycemic traits.
Declining Trends of Cardiovascular-Renal Complications and Mortality in Type 2 Diabetes: The Hong Kong Diabetes Database
Authors: Luk Andrea O.Y. , Hui Eric M.T. , Sin Ming-Chuen , Yeung Chun-Yip , Chow Wing-Sun , Ho Andrew Y.Y. , Hung Hin-Fai , Kan Eva , Ng Chiu-Ming , So Wing-Yee , Yeung Chi-Kin , Chan Kin-Sang , Chan Kin-Wah , Chan Pang-Fai , Siu Shing-Chung , Tiu Sau-Cheung , Yeung Vincent T.F. , Chan Juliana C.N. , Chan Frank W.K. , Cheung Clement , Cheung Ngai-Tseung , Ho Siu-Tung , Lam Karen S.L. , Yu Linda W.L. , Chao David , Lau Ip-Tim
Published: May 2017

OBJECTIVE

Nationwide studies on secular trends of diabetes complications are not available in Asia. We examined changes in risk factor control and incidence of complications from diabetes and death in a large longitudinal cohort of Chinese adults with type 2 diabetes in Hong Kong.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Between 1 January 2000 and 31 December 2012, 338,908 Chinese adults with type 2 diabetes underwent metabolic and complication assessment in 16 diabetes centers operated by Hong Kong Hospital Authority that provided care to a large majority of diagnosed patients. Patients were followed for incident acute myocardial infarction (AMI), stroke, end-stage renal disease (ESRD), and death until 31 December 2012. Risk factor levels between enrollment periods were compared. Incidence of clinical events, stratified by diabetes duration, was examined over time.

RESULTS

Incidence of complications from diabetes and death declined over the observation period in patients at varying disease duration. Among the high-risk group with diabetes for at least 15 years, crude incidence of AMI decreased from 8.7 to 5.8, stroke from 13.5 to 10.1, ESRD from 25.8 to 22.5, and death from 29.0 to 26.6 per 1,000 person-year between the periods 2000 to 2002 and 2010 to 2012. Improvements in levels of metabolic risk factors were detected. Proportion of patients achieving HbA1c <7.0% (53 mmol/mol) was increased from 32.9 to 50.0%, blood pressure ≤130/80 mmHg from 24.7 to 30.7%, and LDL cholesterol <2.6 mmol/L from 25.8 to 38.1%.

CONCLUSIONS

From this territory-wide Hong Kong Diabetes Database, we observed decreases in incidence of cardiovascular-renal complications and death and corresponding improvements in risk factor control over a 13-year period.
Creating a Feeling of Belonging. Solidarity in Finnish Kink Communities
Authors: Pohtinen Johanna
Published: May 2017

Kinky sexuality is often stigmatized in Finnish culture. Therefore, kink communities are vital for creating safe spaces for people who identify as kinky. In this article, I discuss the ways in which the sense of belonging is created in the Finnish kink communities, in particular in their kink events. In kink communities solidarity acts as an important aspect in creating a feeling of belonging. It manifests in shared experiences and knowledge, etiquette rules and consensuality, dressing up in fetish attire and volunteer work at associations. Through interviews, written kinky life stories and participant observation I have examined the experiences of individuals, myself included, to obtain an understanding of the kink phenomenon and the elements that contribute to the sense of belonging. For some people it is important to be able to attend kink events and have face-to-face encounters, whereas others are part of a community online. Yet, the mere existence of the kink community might be enough for an individual to achieve a feeling of belonging to a community.
Continuously Variable Transmission Using Quadric Crank Chains and Ratchets
Authors: T. Yukawa
Published: May 2017

This paper describes the continuously variable transmission (CVT). Generally, CVTs are classified as belt-type or toroidal CVTs, and each CVT is basically composed of two parts such as the V-belt and pulley, or friction wheels. In the belt-type CVT, the pulley is driven by a belt placed between two (left and right) circle boards in the pulley, while in the toroidal CVT, two rollers rotate under the condition being pushed by strong compression power. Since these conventional CVTs use friction force, their energy transfer efficiency might be inferior. Furthermore, although these CVTs require precise structures and processing, they make noise, and are not durable. Consequently, we propose a new structural CVT in this paper
Increasing transmission efficiency with advanced processing
Authors: I. Glesk  , M. Nazri M. Warip  , I. Andonovic
Published: May 2017

Not too long after its emergence, the Internet became an integral part of everyday lives of men in modern societies. It constantly fuels growing opportunities for new advanced services which can better respond to quickly changing society needs. Previously such services often led to increases in energy consumption which is today in a strong contrast with the global drive for a greener and energy more efficient environment. We need network infrastructures which will support these growing needs but at the same time will also stay zero-carbon emission complaint. Such requirements are more imperative today than were ever before. In optical IP networks the power consumption could be reduced via green photonics and concepts known as green networking [1]. In line with these concepts we proposed a novel energy savings approach based on so called “node hibernation” technique. This approach is designed to help reduce network power consumption and optimise its energy usage by taking advantage of a hibernation algorithm we have developed. Its implementation into the network management structure will save the energy, operating cost to network operators and will deliver reduced carbon footprint.
Analysis of the performance of the photovoltaic array through the exergy efficiency
Authors: M. Calderón  , A. Ramiro  , J.F. González  , I. González
Published: May 2017

This work is part of an exergy analysis conducted during the operation of a test-bed hybrid wind/solar generator with hydrogen support, designed and constructed at the Industrial Engineering School of the University of Extremadura, Badajoz (Spain). An exergy balance analysis has been made of the different components of the system, calculating their exergy efficiencies and exergy losses, and proposing future improvements to increase the efficiency of the use of the surplus energy produced by the wind/solar generator. Here we only present the results corresponding to the photovoltaic generator´s exergy analysis.
Selective Harmonics Elimination PWM with Self-Balancing DC-link Capacitors in Five-Level Inverter
Authors: K. Imarazene  , H. Chekireb  , E.M. Berkouk
Published: May 2017

In this paper it is shown that the make use of the redundant states with selective harmonics elimination PWM in the case of multilevel inverters is possible so as to produce the required fundamental voltage while at the same time not generate higher order harmonics and balance the four dc voltage sources without additional circuitry.
Performance and Efficiency of a Biogas CHP System Utilizing a Stirling Engine
Authors: Ahmad Pourmovahed  , Terance Opperman  , Brenda Lemke
Published: May 2017

A Stirling engine utilizes external combustion to produce heat and electricity. Due to the external combustion chamber, the engine can utilize a multitude of fuels including biogas or natural gas. The system used in this study is capable of producing about 7 kW of heat and 1 kW of electricity. Nitrogen is used as the “working fluid” in the engine. The heat from the combustion chamber is circulated through a cooling system making use of the thermal energy. The system includes a battery bank for energy storage and has been equipped with various instruments used to measure temperatures, pressures and flow rates of the fuel, the combustion air and the coolant. The engine is operated using natural gas as well as biogas and the engine characteristics for each are compared. The data collected is used to determine the system performance, thermal and electrical power outputs, individual and overall efficiencies, as well as exhaust emissions (O2 , CO, CO2 , NOx and HC). This paper will present a detailed description of the CHP system, the instrumentation, the test procedures, the test data, analysis of the results and comparison of the biogas and natural gas test results.
Fault simulation environment for power distribution networks with protection operation
Authors: J.Faig  , J. Melendez  , S. Herraiz
Published: May 2017

Nowadays research and development of power networks towards a new, more intelligent and self-management infrastructure is a topic of great interest, becoming what is known as Smart Grids. In order to achieve all this, programming tools to deal with large volumes of information are required, to model and simulate these future networks. This paper presents a tool that allows to model distribution power lines from the information contained in a database, being flexible to the changes that can occur in the line. The developed tool has been tested, in simulation of real cases that correspond to sequence of events due to faults and the actions of the protection system (opening and reclosing) to isolate the fault
Interphase Power Controller Application to Mitigate Transmission Network Short Circuit Level
Authors: L. Zahedi  , Mehdi S. Naderi  , Mohammad S. Naderi  , G. B. Gharehpetian  , E. Babaei
Published: May 2017

In the steady state condition, an IPC controls power flow by setting PST phase angle. In this paper, an efficient algorithm is presented to specify location and the IPC parameters as a fault current limiter including angels of phase shifting transformer (PST) and reactances of the reactor and the capacitor. As a case study, the algorithm is applied to Tehran Regional Electric Company (TREC) to reduce the Short Circuit Level (SCL) of critical transmission substations. The transient stability studies are performed in the transmission network with the installed IPC to verify the effective current limiting characteristic of IPC.
Experimental Results Analysis of the Energy Conversion Efficiency of Thermoelectric Generators
Authors: Patrizia Richner  , Pedro Dinis Gaspar  , Luís Carrilho Gonçalves  , David Almeida
Published: May 2017

Thermoelectric generators can be used for conversion of heat to electricity wherever a temperature difference exists. Such differences of temperatures are available in many applications, often without being used. In the case of photovoltaic panels the temperature difference is in the order of 50 ºC. This study experimentally examines the performance of two commercial thermoelectric generators. The resistance, open circuit voltage and short circuit current are measured. The maximum power output and the overall conversion efficiency are calculated and the results of the two generators compared. Infrared thermographic pictures are taken in order to evaluate the temperature distribution over the generator induced by the experimental setup. It is shown that the power output as well as the conversion efficiency at temperature difference smaller than 50 ºC is very low and therefore the implementation of thermoelectric generators in combination with photovoltaic panels might not be economic.
Study and Analysis of Voltage Dips in an Adjustable Speed Drives
Authors: C. Olarte  , J. González  , J. Pérez
Published: May 2017

Currently, voltage dips are the most common disturbance of power quality. The voltage dips are a great problem on industrial process controlled by Adjustable Speed Drives (ASD). This paper describes an experimental study for evaluating the behavior of ASD when voltage dips appear. The measured parameters are: input and output voltage, input and output current, motor speed and torque. Finally this paper presents a development of a tolerance curve of ASD in order to study.
The Italian MV network dip performance characterization by contour charts as defined by UIE/CIGRE’/CIRED WG-C4.110
Authors: R. Chiumeo  , C. Gandolfi  , L. Garbero  , L. Tenti
Published: May 2017

Reporting and analysis procedures play an important role in power quality monitoring systems especially for long term surveys. As far as voltage dips are concerned, the network voltage dip performance can be effectively described in many different ways depending on the aims of the data presentations at both site and system level. The paper deals with network dip performance different representation methods focussing in particular on the way of presentation proposed by the working group UIE/CIGRE’/CIRED C4.110. This method has been applied to the Italian 2009 voltage dips statistic as acquired by the Italian power quality monitoring system named QuEEN. Contour charts have been drawn for both different percentage of the monitoring sites and voltage dips types.
Analysis of the Electric Arc in Low Voltage Circuit Breakers
Authors: A. Iturregi  , E. Torres  , I. Zamora
Published: May 2017

Low Voltage Circuit Breakers (LVCBs) play an important role in electric power systems as they are responsible for switching on and off electric currents, as well as for safety of equipment and human beings. Their working base is the electric arc that appears between their contacts when establishing or interrupting the electric current in the circuit. This electric arc is a complex phenomenon where lots of physic interactions take place in a very short time. Therefore, the optimization of the operation of LVCBs makes necessary a deep understanding of the phenomena involved in the appearance of the electric arc. This knowledge can be achieved by means of modelization and simulation tools. This option allows us to obtain the evolution of physical magnitudes which would be difficult to measure in laboratory tests. The aim of this paper is to describe the phenomena of the electric arc in LVCBs, as well as the specification of the mathematical, physical and software needs for its modelization and simulation.
Propose of a low cost integrating sphere
Authors: Freitas, G. P.  , Santana, M. V. F de  , Neto J. M.  , Spacek, A. D.  , Biléssimo, L. D.  , Ando Junior,  O. H.  , Pereira, T. C.
Published: May 2017

This paper proposes the development of a low cost integrating sphere used for measuring flux characteristics and luminous spectrum lamps. The proposal provides the use of alternative materials as well the replacement of measuring high level equipment for more practical and common hardware accessories, providing a reduction in the cost of development. The objective is to minimize the cost of light sources assays, currently with a high cost, for research purposes, educational issues and the opportunity to use this alternative system for validation of new products, light bulbs and/or tubular daylighting devices for lighting indoors.
The Sensitivity of the Real-time PCR and Nested-PCR for Detection of Coxiella burnetii in Milk Samples
Authors: Bonyadian Mojtaba , Moshtaghi Hamdollah , Kazemeini Hamidreza
Published: May 2017

Coxiella burnetii is the causative agent of Q-fever, a widespread zoonosis. In domestic animals infection remains either asymptomatic or presents as infertility or abortion. Clinical presentation in humans can range from mild flu-like illness to acute pneumonia and hepatitis. In humans serology is the gold standard for diagnosis but is inadequate for early case detection, so real-time PCR and nested-PCR assays were developed in this study to measure amounts of C.burnetii shed in milk. Our study was to assess the sensitivity of the realtime PCR and nested-PCR for detection of Coxiella burnetii in bovine bulk milk samples from dairy herds in 3 provinces (Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari , Isfahan and Yazd) of Iran. In the present study, 300 bulk milk samples from 89 dairy cattle herds were tested for C. burnetii using real-time PCR and nested-PCR assays. The animals which their milk samples collected for this study were clinically healthy. In total, 74 of 300 (24.7%) cow milk samples were positive in real-time PCR assay and 26 of 300 (8.7%) samples were positive in nested-PCR assay. McNemar test shows a significant difference in detection of C. burnetii between real-time PCR and nested-PCR. Also the results of this study indicate those clinically healthy dairy cows are important sources of C. burnetii infection in Iran.
Immunopathologic Characteristics of Nasal Polyps in Adult Koreans: A Single-Center Study
Authors: Shin Seung-Heon , Kim Yee-Hyuk , Ye Mi-Kyung , Choi Sung-Yong
Published: May 2017

Background

Chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (NP) (CRSwNP) is classified into eosinophilic and noneosinophilic types based on the level of tissue eosinophilia. The immunopathologic features of Western and Asian CRSwNP differ.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to investigate the immunopathologic characteristics of Korean patients with eosinophilic NP versus noneosinophilic NP and those with atopic NP versus nonatopic NP.

Methods

Tissue samples were collected from 81 patients with NP and 24 controls. The clinical characteristics of all the patients were analyzed. Tissues were investigated for expression of chemical mediators, including interleukin (IL) 5, IL-10, IL-17, interferon-γ, and tumor growth factor-β1; transcription factors, including GATA binding protein 3 (GATA-3), forkhead box P3 (Foxp3), retinoic acid–related orphan receptor C (RORC), and T-box transcription factor (T-bet), and extracellular matrix, including collagen type I, fibronectin, tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 1, and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) 9.

Results

Although the clinical characteristics differed between eosinophilic and noneosinophilic NPs, atopic status did not affect the clinical findings of CRSwNP. Both T-helper 1 and 2 cytokines increased significantly in patients with eosinophilic NP, but atopic status did not affect the expression of any of the chemical mediators. GATA-3 messenger RNA (mRNA) expression increased significantly in patients with eosinophilic NP, and RORC mRNA expression increased significantly in patients with noneosinophilic NP. T-bet, RORC, and Foxp3 mRNA expression increased significantly in patients with nonatopic NP. Fibronectin and MMP-9 mRNA expression increased significantly in patients with noneosinophilic NP, whereas only MMP-9 mRNA increased significantly in patients with eosinophilic and those with noneosinophilic NP.

Conclusion

The immunopathologic characteristics differed between eosinophilic NP and noneosinophilic NP and between atopic NP and nonatopic NP. The different underlying pathogenic processes may influence the development of Korean NP.
Causes of Dacryocystorhinostomy Failure: External versus Endoscopic Approach
Authors: Lin Giant C. , Brook Christopher D. , Hatton Mark P. , Metson Ralph
Published: May 2017

Objectives

To compare the causes of failure between external and endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy (DCR) techniques for the treatment of lacrimal obstruction.

Study Design

A retrospective cohort study.

Methods

The study population consisted of 53 consecutive patients who underwent revision endoscopic DCR from 2002 to 2013 for lacrimal duct obstruction. Identified causes of previous DCR failure were compared between patients whose initial surgery was performed through an external versus an endoscopic approach.

Results

Reasons for surgical failure after external (n = 21) versus endoscopic (n = 32) DCR included cicatricial closure of the internal lacrimal ostium (52.4 versus 53.1%; p = 0.96), inadequate removal of bone overlying the lacrimal sac (23.8 versus 9.4%; p = 0.15), sump syndrome (9.5 versus 9.4%; p = 0.99), and intranasal adhesions (65 versus 37.5%; p = 0.05). Adhesions that involved the middle turbinate were a particularly impactful cause of failure when the DCR was performed through an external versus the endoscopic approach (57.1 versus 28.1%; p = 0.04). Septoplasty was more likely to be needed at the time of revision surgery if the initial procedure was performed externally (71.1 versus 15.6%; p = 0.02). Surgical success rates for revision DCR were comparable between the groups (75.0% external versus 73.3% endoscopic; p = 0.90), with a mean follow-up of 12.7 months.

Conclusion

DCR failure associated with intranasal adhesions was more likely to occur when the surgery was performed through an external rather than an endoscopic approach. Endoscopic instrumentation allowed for identification and correction of intranasal pathology at the time of DCR, includingan enlarged middle turbinate or a deviated septum, which may improve surgical outcome.
International Frontal Sinus Anatomy Classification and Anatomic Predictors of Low-Lying Anterior Ethmoidal Arteries
Authors: Sjogren Phayvanh P. , Waghela Rajendra , Ashby Shaelene , Wiggins Richard H. , Orlandi Richard R. , Alt Jeremiah A.
Published: May 2017

Background

The International Frontal Sinus Anatomy Classification (IFAC) was introduced to more accurately characterize ethmoid and frontal sinus pneumatization patterns. The prevalence of IFAC cells and their anatomic associations have not been described.

Objective

The goal was to examine the prevalence of IFAC cells and determine radiologic features associated with a low-lying anterior ethmoidal artery (LAEA).

Methods

Imaging of adult patients who underwent computed tomographies from January 2015 to March 2016 were retrospectively reviewed by using the IFAC classification. We also measured the distance from the skull base to the anterior ethmoidal artery (AEA), the height of the lateral lamella of the cribriform plate, and anterior-posterior diameter from the anterior wall of the frontal sinus to the skull base (APF). Patients with a history of sinus surgery, trauma, malignancy, or congenital anomaly were excluded. Statistical analysis was performed by using Pearson correlation coefficients and χ2 tests.

Results

A total of 95 patients met the inclusion criteria. There was a significant association between supraorbital ethmoid cells and an LAEA (p < 0.001), with a significant effect size (ϕ = 0.276, p = 0.007). An inverse relationship was observed between Keros type I classification I and an LAEA (p < 0.001), with a significant effect size (ϕ = -0.414, p = 0.000). Significant associations were found between the AEA distance from the skull base and the cribriform lateral lamella height (R = 0.576, p < 0.001). In addition, there was a significant association between the AEA distance from the skull base and the APF (R = 0.497, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The presence of a supraorbital ethmoid cell and a wide APF were associated with an LAEA. There was a significant relationship between Keros type I classification and the AEA adjacent to the skull base. Delineation of these anatomic relationships may be helpful during endoscopic sinus surgery to avoid complications.
Closure of Nasal Septal Perforations with a Polydioxanone Plate and Temporoparietal Fascia in a Closed Approach
Authors: Epprecht Lorenz , Schlegel Christoph , Holzmann David , Soyka Michael , Kaufmann Thomas
Published: May 2017

Background

Septal perforation closure is still often invasive and complex, with relatively low closure rates.

Objectives

We aimed to provide the first results of a case series of 20 patients with nasal septal perforations who underwent septal perforation repair by both an open and a minimally invasive technique by using a graft that consisted of temporoparietal fascia and a polydioxanone (PDS) plate without mucosal flaps. Between 2014 and 2016, we tested, for the first time, the feasibility of the insertion of this graft via a hemitransfixion incision at our institution. The rationale for the closed approach was to avoid any visible nasal scars. We reported our results of both approaches.

Methods

The septal perforations were closed by insertion of a graft, which consisted of a 0.25-mm PDS flexible plate enveloped by temporoparietal fascia, into the perforation. The insertion of the graft was performed either via a columellar incision (open approach) or via a cosmetically advantageous hemitransfixion incision (closed approach) in an underlay technique. No attempts were made to close the perforation by mucosal flap rotation and/or advancement. Protective silastic sheeting to both sides of the perforation provided fixation to the graft while natural mucosal healing occurred over the perforation in the course of 3 to 8 weeks.

Results

Eighteen of 20 perforations were closed by mucosa at the last follow-up. The mean follow-up was 8.7 months. Thirteen patients had surgery via the closed approach.

Conclusion

We showed, for the first time, that the insertion of a graft that consisted of a PDS flexible plate enveloped in temporoparietal fascia via a hemitransfixion incision was feasible and resulted in complete mucosal closure of nasal septal perforations in most patients. By performing the hemitransfixion incision, we avoided any visible nasal scars.
Endoscopic Resection of Sinonasal Mucosal Melanoma has Comparable Outcomes to Open Approaches
Authors: Miglani Amar , Patel Samir H. , Kosiorek Heidi E. , Hinni Michael L. , Hayden Richard E. , Lal Devyani
Published: May 2017

Background

Endoscopic endonasal resection (EER) of sinonasal mucosal melanoma (SMM) is a newer surgical alternative to traditional external and/or open resection (OR). Studies on long-term outcomes are necessary to validate EER for this aggressive sinonasal malignancy.

Objective

To compare outcomes of EER versus OR in SMM.

Methods

A case series of patients who underwent surgical resection of SMM at a tertiary-care institution (2000–2015) was studied retrospectively. Demographics, tumor site and stage, surgical approach, surgical margin status, local control, and survival were compared between those who underwent EER and OR.

Results

Twenty-two patients met inclusion criteria. Nine underwent EER and 13 underwent OR. The mean age in the EER and OR groups was similar, 78.7 and 72.3 years, respectively. Two-thirds of patients were women (EER, 66.7%; OR, 61.5%). The nasal cavity was the most common primary tumor site (EER, 77.8%; OR, 84.6%). The local tumor stage in both groups was similar, with the majority of cases being T4 (EER, 55.6%; OR, 61.5%; p = 0.99). Negative margins were achieved in all EERs and in 69.2% of ORs. Median follow-up was 25.0 months for the overall group (range, 1.7–172.9 months), 32.6 months (range, 3.4–58.7 months) for EER and 14.1 months (range, 1.7–172.9 months) for OR cohorts. The 5-year overall survival was statistically similar in both groups (EER, 53.3%; OR, 22.7%; p = 0.214) as was disease-free survival (EER, 55.6%; OR, 22.8%; p = 0.178). Local control, however, was significantly higher in the EER cohort (EER, 85.7%; OR, 37.6%; p = 0.026).

Conclusion

In carefully selected patients with sinonasal melanoma, endoscopic surgery with an experienced team may offer comparable survival and improved local control over open surgery. Prospective, multicentered studies with larger cohorts are needed to validate these results.
Association of Pediatric Allergic Rhinitis with the Ratings of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Authors: Feng Bohai , Jin Haiyong , Xiang Haijie , Li Bangliang , Zheng Xiuxiu , Chen Ruru , Shi Yunbin , Chen Si , Chen Bobei
Published: May 2017

Background

Allergic rhinitis (AR) is currently the most prevalent allergic disease in children and adolescents.

Objective

Surveys conducted by population-based studies of East Asia revealed an increased prevalence of behavioral disorders in patients with AR. Thus, in this study, we explored the prevalence of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in pediatric patients with AR.

Methods

A total of 333 children (6–12 years of age) with AR and a total of 322 age-matched controls were included in this study. An otorhinolaryngologist diagnosed all AR cases and evaluated the severity of the disease. Skin-prick test results for 18 major allergens, Paediatric Rhinoconjunctivitis Quality of Life Questionnaire (PRQLQ), Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL), and Swanson, Nolan, and Pelham version IV (SNAP-IV) scores were recorded.

Results

In total, 320 age-matched controls and 323 children with AR completed the study. With respect to the Total Nasal Symptom Score and the PRQLQ, the condition of the experimental group was more serious than that of the controls. The scores on the hyperactivity/impulsivity and inattention subscales, which evaluate ADHD symptoms, and those on the CBCL subscales were significantly higher in patients with AR than in the controls (all p values were <0.01). From the results of the Pearson correlation, we deduced that there were significant positive correlations between the AR-related data and each subscale of the CBCL and SNAP-IV in the AR group. Moreover, two basic characteristics (males and environmental exposure to tobacco smoke) present significant positive and age showed a significant negative correlations affect ADHD symptom in both the AR group and the control group. Also, in the “pure AR” group, hierarchical regression analyses were performed to determine the subtests of the PRQLQ, which are significant predictors of SNAP-IV and CBCL.

Conclusions

Apart from AR per se, the possible comorbidities of impulsivity and inattention are important when managing children with AR. It is essential to evaluate the symptoms of ADHD in children and adolescents with AR.
Registration of ‘Georgia‐16HO’ Peanut
Authors: Branch W. D.
Published: May 2017

‘Georgia‐16HO’ (Reg. No. CV‐133, PI 680617) is a new high‐yielding, high‐oleic, Tomato spotted wilt virus (TSWV)‐resistant, large‐seeded, runner‐type peanut (Arachis hypogaea L. subsp. hypogaea var. hypogaea) cultivar released by the Georgia Agricultural Experiment Station in 2016. It was developed at the University of Georgia, Coastal Plain Experiment Station, Tifton, GA. Georgia‐16HO originated from a cross made between ‘Georgia‐07W’ and ‘Florida‐07’. Pedigree selection was practiced within the early segregating generations. Performance testing began in the F4:6 generation with the advanced pure‐line selection, GA 112720, the experimental designation of Georgia‐16HO. During 3 yr (2013–2015) averaged over 23 multiple location tests in Georgia, Georgia‐16HO had significantly less TSWV and total disease incidence and greater pod yield, total sound mature kernel grade, and dollar value return per hectare compared with the high‐oleic, runner‐type cultivars ‘FloRun ‘107”, Florida‐07, and ‘TUFRunner ‘727”. Georgia‐16HO was also found to have a larger percentage of jumbo runner seed size as compared to two of the large‐seeded, high‐oleic, runner‐type check cultivars, Florida‐07 and TUFRunner ‘727’. Georgia‐16HO combines high dollar value and TSWV resistance with the high‐oleic trait for longer shelf life and improved oil quality of peanut and peanut products.
Association of Myosin Light Chain 2 (MLC 2) with Troponin-I and Ejection Fraction in patients with Acute Coronary Syndrome
Authors: Anwar Samira , Khan Mansura , Chowdhury Ashesh Kumar
Published: May 2017

Background: Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) is a major health problem and represents a large number of hospitalizations annually. Myosin light chain (MLC2)isasensitive early marker (within four hours) of ACS that can be used to confirm or exclude a diagnosis of acute cardiac condition. The present study was undertaken for rapid diagnosis ACS with the help of elevated MLC-2and its relation with Troponin I and ventricular ejection fraction.Method: In this cross sectional study,60 patients ofACS were enrolled from coronary care unit (CCU), BIRDEM as case and 25 apparently healthy people from cardiac point of view as control. Selection of patients was done according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria.MLC-2was measured(within 3-4 hours by ELISA method and level of ventricular dysfunction and troponin I (in ACS group) was taken from hospital records.Results: The mean ± SEM of MLC-2 was higher in the ACS group (88.02±18.0 pgm/ml) compared to the healthy control group (41.4±2.2 pgm/ml) and difference was statistically significant (p<0.05). The inverse correlation between MCL-2 and ejection fraction was highly significant (r=-0.647, p=0.001). The correlation with MLC-2 and troponin I was also significant (r=0.831, p=0.01).Conclusion: Statistically significantMLC2level was found in the ACS group than the healthy control group. Positive correlation was also observed between MLC-2 with Troponin I and ventricular dysfunction. Therefore, MLC 2 may be used as a biomarker early diagnosis of ACS.Bangladesh Crit Care J March 2017; 5(1): 37-41
Assessment of Glycaemic Status, BMI and Dyslipidemia in a Group of Official Population of Bangladesh
Authors: Irfan SM Rezaul , Safdar AMB , Habib Samira Humaira , Begum Afsana , Rahman Aparna , Mohibullah AKM
Published: May 2017

Introduction: Obesity and dyslipidemia are emerging as major public health challenges in South Asian countries. The prevalence of obesity is more in urban areas than rural. Increasing obesity and dyslipidemia in South Asians is primarily driven by nutrition, lifestyle and demographic transitions, increasingly faulty diets and physical inactivity, in the background of genetic predisposition.Aim: The aim of the study was to assess the glycaemic status with BMI and lipid profile in a group of official population of Bangladesh.Methodology: This prospective observational study was conducted in BIRDEM General Hospital during a period of one year from January 2013 to December 2013. 599 Working officials of 50 years of age and above were studied during their yearly health checkup. Body Mass Index (BMI) was used to assess the general obesity. This population group was also assessed for Metabolic Derangement by Fasting Blood Glucose, 2 Hours after Breakfast Blood Glucose, HbA1C and fasting Lipid Profile.Results: 470 out of 599 study populations had some form of glycaemic abnormality. Diabetes Mellitus Type-2 were found in 238 (39.73%), 113 (18.86%) had IGT and 119 (19.86%) had IFG. It was revealed from BMI assessment that 48.4% of the study population was overweight and 12.8% had obesity of different grades. All patients were evaluated for lipid status in fasting state. 326 (54.4%) had raised LDL, 361 (61.3%) low HDL and 289 (48.2%) had raised Triglycerides.Conclusion: This study reflects the high incidence of overweight subjects with more tendency to have lower HDL, high LDL and Triglyceride cholesterol. There was also high incidence of abnormal Glycaemic status in this specific small group of population focusing the future needs of thorough assessment at multicentre level in different groups of population to estimate the real scenario of the nation.Bangladesh Crit Care J March 2017; 5(1): 42-47
Ascaris infestation leading to diarrhea and malnutrition
Authors: Khanal Sushil , Maharjan SN Sarina , Aryal Diptesh , Acharya Subhash Prasad
Published: May 2017

Gastrointestinal infestation with Ascaris lumbricoides is common in the tropical countries. A wide range of clinical presentations are reported for gastrintestinal ascariasis in both adults and children. We report a case of diarrhea causing malnutrition in ICU due to Ascaris infestation.Bangladesh Crit Care J March 2017; 5(1): 70-71
Specific Internal Structure of Diamonds from Zarnitsa Kimberlite Pipe
Authors: Ragozin Alexey , Zedgenizov Dmitry , Kuper Konstantin , Palyanov Yuri
Published: May 2017

The Zarnitsa kimberlite pipe is one of the largest pipes of the Yakutian diamondiferous province. Currently, some limited published data exists on the diamonds from this deposit. Among the diamond population of this pipe there is a specific series of dark gray to black diamonds with transition morphologies between octahedron and rounded rhombic dodecahedron. These diamonds have specific zonal and sectorial mosaic-block internal structures. The inner parts of these crystals have polycrystalline structure with significant misorientations between sub-individuals. The high consistency of the mechanical admixtures (inclusions) in the diamonds cores can cause a high grid stress of the crystal structure and promote the block (polycrystalline) structure of the core components. These diamond crystals have subsequently been formed due to crystallization of bigger sub-individuals on the polycrystalline cores according to the geometric selection law.