bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Arsenic Concentrations in Florida Surface Soils
Authors: Chen M. , Ma L. Q. , Harris W. G.
Published: July 2014

Background As concentrations in soils are important for defining whether a soil is polluted. Arsenic concentrations in 441 taxonomically and geographically representative surface soils were determined using EPA Method 3052 (HCl‐HNO3‐HF digestion). Cumulative distribution plots indicate that As concentrations follow a log‐normal distribution and depend on soil type. Sample geometric mean(GM) (the exponential mean of the log‐transformed distribution) As concentrations (mg kg−1) generally follow the soil taxonomic order of Histosols (2.35) > Inceptisols (0.98), Mollisols (0.72) ≥ Ultisols (0.51) ≥ Alfisols (0.39), and Entisols (0.36) > Spodosols (0.18). The highest As concentrations were found in soils that occur exclusively or prevalently in wetlands, such as Hemists (3.16–9.44), Saprists (0.15–11.7), Aquents (0.10–50.6), Aquolls (0.03–3.34), and Aquepts (0.03–38.2). Both linear and multiple regressions indicate soil properties (clay, pH, cation‐exchange capacity [CEC], organic C, and total Al), especially total Fe and P, are important factors affecting natural background concentrations of As in Florida soils. Arsenic release from bedrock (limestone) and As bioaccumulation by aquatic organisms are possible explanations for relatively high As in those wetland soils. The use of a single regulatory value criterion for As contamination in soil cannot provide an adequate assessment given the natural variation in soil As. Baseline soil‐As concentration, which was defined as 95% of the expected range of background As concentrations in different soil categories, is necessary for properly assessing potential As contamination.
Usage of GreenLight HPS 180-W laser vaporisation for treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia
Authors: Jovanovic M. , Dzamic Zoran , Acimovic Miodrag , Kajmakovic Boris , Pejcic Tomislav
Published: July 2014

Introduction: Laser therapy has gained increasing acceptance as a relatively
less invasive treatment for lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) due to benign
prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). From the early procedure of interstitial laser
coagulation through to the use of holmium laser enucleation of the prostate,
there has been an expanding body of evidence on the efficacy of such
procedures. One of the newer lasers is the Green Light HPS 180 W laser.
Studies with this GreenLight laser (GLL) (American Medical Systems, Inc,
Minnetonka, MN, USA) showing results as good as those of transurethral
resection of the prostate (TURP). In this paper, the efficacy of the new GLL
180-W versus the gold standard TURP in patients with LUTS due to BPH was
tested in a prospective clinical trial. Objective: To compare results of
Green light laser (GLL) evaporisation of the prostatae and transurethral
resection of the prostate (TURP) for treatment of BPH. Materijals and
methods: A total of 62 patients with BPH were randomly assigned to two equal
groups: TURP or GLL.ResultsBoth groups were compared regarding all relevant
preoperative, operative, and postoperative parameters. Functional results in
terms of improvement of International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS),
maximum flow rate (Qmax), and postvoid residual (PVR) urine were assessed at
1, 3, 6 and 12 mo. A total of 62 patients completed 12 mo of follow-up in the
TURP and GLL groups, respectively. Baseline characteristics were comparable.
Mean operative time was significantly shorter for TURP. Compared to
preoperative values, there was significant reduction in hemoglobin levels at
the end of TURP only. A significant difference in favor of GLL was achieved
regarding the duration of catheterization and hospital stay. In the GLL, no
major intraoperative complications were recorded and none of the patients
required blood transfusion. Among TURP patients, 6 required transfusion, 1
developed TUR syndrome, and capsule perforation was observed in 5 patients.
There was dramatic improvement in Qmax, IPSS, and GLL compared with
preoperative values and the degree of improvement was comparable in both
groups at all time points of follow-up. Four TURP patients and one GLL
patients developed bladder neck contracture treated by bladder neck incision;
none in either group experienced urethral stricture or urinary incontinence.
Conclusions: Compared to transurethral resection of the prostate, GreenLight
HPS 180-W laser photoselective vaporization of the prostate is safe and
effective in the treatment of patients suffering from lower urinary tract
symptoms due to benign prostatic hyperplasia.
New and experimental techniques in the treatment of benign prostatic diseases
Authors: Pejcic Tomislav , Dzamic Zoran , Acimovic Miodrag , Kajmakovic Boris , Hadzi-Djokic Jovan
Published: July 2014

Background: Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and chronic prostatitis (CP)
are disorders with high prevalence and have a great impact on overall
morbidity in men. The patients that do not respond to medical therapy for
lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) related to BPH are candidates for
surgery. However, the number of men with BPH/LUTS seeking for non- surgical,
or for less invasive treatment is growing. Aim: To present the basic
information about minimally invasive treatment modalities for BPH and CP:
intraprostatic injections, urethral lift procedures, modifications of
transurethral microwave thermotherapy (TUMT), prostatic artery embolization
etc. Conclusion: The majority of these techniques is still in experimental
phase and not widely accepted. However, it is very likely that new, safe and
minimally invasive techniques will appear in the near future.
Evaluation of thermal antinociceptive effects after intramuscular administration of buprenorphine hydrochloride to American kestrels (Falco sparverius)
Authors: Ceulemans Susanne M. , Guzman David Sanchez-Migallon , Olsen Glenn H. , Beaufrère Hugues , Paul-Murphy Joanne R.
Published: July 2014

Objective—To evaluate the thermal antinociceptive effects and duration of action of buprenorphine hydrochloride after IM administration to American kestrels (Falco sparverius).

Animals—12 healthy 3-year-old American kestrels.

Procedures—Buprenorphine hydrochloride (0.1, 0.3, and 0.6 mg/kg) and a control treatment (saline [0.9% NaCl] solution) were administered IM in a randomized crossover experimental design. Foot withdrawal response to a thermal stimulus was determined 1 hour before (baseline) and 1.5, 3, and 6 hours after treatment administration. Agitation-sedation scores were determined 3 to 5 minutes before each thermal stimulus. Adverse effects were monitored for 6 hours after treatment administration.

Results—Buprenorphine hydrochloride at 0.1, 0.3, and 0.6 mg/kg, IM, increased thermal threshold for 6 hours, compared with the response for the control treatment. There were no significant differences among buprenorphine treatments. A mild sedative effect was detected at a dose of 0.6 mg of buprenorphine/kg.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance—At the doses tested, buprenorphine hydrochloride resulted in thermal antinociception in American kestrels for at least 6 hours, which suggested that buprenorphine has analgesic effects in this species. Further studies with longer evaluation periods and additional forms of noxious stimuli, formulations, dosages, and routes of administration are needed to fully evaluate the analgesic effects of buprenorphine in American kestrels.
Pharmacokinetics of buprenorphine hydrochloride following intramuscular and intravenous administration to American kestrels (Falco sparverius)
Authors: Gustavsen Kate A. , Guzman David Sanchez-Migallon , Knych Heather K. , Petritz Olivia A. , Olsen Glenn H. , Paul-Murphy Joanne R.
Published: July 2014

Objective—To determine the pharmacokinetics of buprenorphine hydrochloride after IM and IV administration to American kestrels (Falco sparverius).

Animals—13 healthy 3-year-old captive-bred American kestrels.

Procedures—Buprenorphine hydrochloride (0.6 mg/kg) was administered IM to all birds. Blood samples were collected at 9 times, ranging from 5 minutes to 9 hours after drug administration. Plasma buprenorphine concentrations were measured by use of tandem liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry. Pharmacokinetic parameters were determined by use of least squares linear regression and noncompartmental analysis of naïve pooled data. After a washout period of 2 weeks, the same dose of buprenorphine was administered IV to all birds and blood samples were collected at the same times after drug administration.

Results—Maximum plasma buprenorphine concentration was achieved within 5 minutes after IM administration. For IM administration, bioavailability was 94.8% and elimination half-life was 92.1 minutes. For IV administration, steady-state volume of distribution was 4,023.8 mL/kg, plasma clearance was 49.2 mL/min/kg, and elimination half-life was 105.5 minutes.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Buprenorphine was rapidly absorbed, and bioavailability was good after IM administration to American kestrels. Plasma buprenorphine concentrations were > 1 ng/mL for 9 hours after both IM and IV administration. These results, in combination with those of a pharmacodynamic study, suggested that the analgesic effects of buprenorphine could last at least 6 to 9 hours in this species. Further investigations of the duration of analgesic effects, multiple-dose protocols, and potential adverse effects of buprenorphine are warranted in American kestrels and other raptors.
Modulation of growth and immunity by dietary supplementation with resveratrol in young chickens receiving conventional vaccinations
Authors: Zhang CaiYun , Tian YaDong , Yan FengBin , Kang XiangTao , Han RuiLi , Sun GuiRong , Zhang HuiRu
Published: July 2014

Objective—To determine the effects of resveratrol (RES) on growth and immune status in chickens receiving conventional vaccinations.

Animals—Two hundred forty 1-day-old layer chickens.

Procedures—Chickens received conventional vaccinations throughout the study and were randomly assigned to 1 of 4 treatments in 6 replicate pens/treatment. Treatments included 1 control group (basal diet) and 3 experimental groups fed the basal diet plus 200, 400, and 800 mg of RES/kg of diet. At 40 days of age, 1 bird/pen was randomly selected to have blood and tissues collected to determine serum immunity indices; mRNA relative expression of proinflammatory cytokines in splenocytes; mRNA relative expression of nuclear transcription factor-κB, growth hormone receptor, and insulin-like growth factor-1 in hepatocytes; cell proliferation; and apoptosis.

Results—Average daily gain, antibody titers against Newcastle disease virus and avian influenza viruses H5 and H9, and insulin-like growth factor-1 expression were quadratically increased with increasing RES concentration. In hepatocytes, growth hormone receptor gene mRNA relative expression was quadratically increased and nuclear transcription factor-κB gene mRNA relative expression was linearly decreased with increasing RES concentration. In splenocytes, nterleukin-1β and tumor necrosis factor-α mRNA relative expression was linearly decreased with increasing RES concentration. Resveratrol supplementation delayed cell proliferation and reduced apoptosis in immunocytes. With increasing RES concentration, proliferation index and relative weight of the thymus, ratio of CD4+ to CD8+ cells, and CD4+ cell count were quadratically increased, and IgM concentration was linearly increased.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Dietary resveratrol supplementation improved growth, protected immunocytes against antigen-induced apoptosis, and upregulated immune response in chickens that received conventional vaccinations.
Effects of clopidogrel on horses with experimentally induced endotoxemia
Authors: Watts Ashlee E. , Ness Sally L. , Divers Thomas J. , Fubini Susan L. , Frye Amelia H. , Stokol Tracy , Cummings Kevin J. , Brooks Marjory B.
Published: July 2014

Objective—To evaluate the effects of clopidogrel on clinical and clinicopathologic variables in healthy horses with experimentally induced endotoxemia.

Animals—12 adult mares.

Procedures—Horses were assigned with a randomization procedure to receive clopidogrel (4 mg/kg, once, then 2 mg/kg, q 24 h; n = 6) or a placebo (6) through a nasogastric tube. After 72 hours of treatment, horses received lipopolysaccharide (LPS; 30 ng/kg, IV). Heart rate, respiratory rate, rectal temperature, CBC variables, plasma fibrinogen concentration, serum tumor necrosis factor-α concentration, plasma von Willebrand factor concentration, and measures of platelet activation (including ADP- and collagen-induced platelet aggregation and closure times, thrombelastography variables, and results of flow cytometric detection of platelet membrane P-selectin, phosphatidylserine, and microparticles) were determined at various times before and after LPS administration by investigators unaware of the treatment groups. Statistical analyses were performed with repeated-measures ANOVA.

Results—4 of 6 clopidogrel-treated horses had significant decreases in ADP-induced platelet aggregation before and after LPS administration. Heart rate increased significantly after LPS administration only for the placebo group. No significant differences were detected between groups for CBC variables, closure time, and plasma concentration of fibrinogen or serum concentration of tumor necrosis factor-α, and no clinically relevant differences were detected for other hemostatic variables.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—In this study, administration of LPS did not induce platelet hyperreactivity in horses on the basis of measures of platelet adhesion, aggregation, degranulation, and procoagulant activity. Administration of clopidogrel was associated with variable platelet antiaggregatory activity and attenuated some clinical signs of endotoxemia.
Online Bartering Motivations
Authors: Lee Hsiang-Ming , Chen Tsai , Hung Min-Li
Published: July 2014

This study examined the role of enjoyment in people's decision to barter online. A survey in barter BBS/discussion forums and websites collected data from 135 participants (30 men, 105 women; 71% in the age group of 21–30 years) who barter online. To test a modification of the Expectation Confirmation Model, perceived enjoyment, confirmation of expectations, perceived usefulness, satisfaction, and continuance intention were measured. The data analysis showed that the expanded ECM had good explanatory power, with all paths supported except for perceived usefulness-satisfaction. In the proposed model, 33.1% of the variance in continuance intentions was predicted by the independent variables. Thus, the expanded ECM can provide supplementary information that is relevant for understanding continued online bartering usage. Barter website managers may encourage users' intentions to continue using these websites by emphasizing enjoyable aspects of online bartering.
Psychometric Properties of the “Sport Satisfaction Instrument (SSI)” in Female Athletes: Predictive Model of Sport Commitment
Authors: Granero-Gallegos A. , Baena-Extremera A. , Gómez-López M. , Abraldes J. A.
Published: July 2014

The objective of this research was to assess the psychometric properties of the Sport Satisfaction Instrument (SSI) in a Spanish sample of female athletes in team sports federations, to decide whether it constitutes a valid and reliable instrument to be used in the context of female competitive sport in future research. The SSI was administered to a total of 615 athletes from 12 to 38 yr. of age. Confirmatory procedures and psychometric analysis supported the hypothesized theoretical model of two factors (Satisfaction/fun and Boredom). For female athletes, the 7-item model showed better goodness-of-fit indexes upon eliminating Item 2 from the Boredom subscale. Concurrent validity was explored through the correlations with the Perception of Success Questionnaire and Sport Commitment, obtaining positive correlations between Satisfaction/fun and Task Orientation and Sport Commitment, whereas Boredom correlated positively but less closely with Ego Orientation. The importance of Satisfaction/fun in the prediction of Sport Commitment, starting from task orientation, is emphasized.
Exploratory Study toward Development of the French Version of the Questionnaire on Personality Traits (QPT/VKP–4) in an Elderly Population in Comparison to Young Adults
Authors: Courtois R. , Plaisant O. , Duijsens I. J. , Enfoux A. , Coutard N. , Réveillère C. , Camus V. , El-Hage W.
Published: July 2014

This research is an exploratory study toward development of the French version of the Questionnaire on Personality Traits (QPT/VKP–4). The goal was to assess its association with the Big Five Inventory (BIG–5) and to explore the personality characteristics of the elderly compared to young adults. The 241 participants included 83 elderly people and 158 young adults. Borderline and anxious personality disorders were less frequent in elderly women than in young women, and depressive personality disorder was less frequent in elderly men. Dimension scores were higher for Conscientiousness in the elderly, Agreeableness in elderly women, and Extraversion in elderly men. Statistically significant correlations were found between personality dimension scores using the VKP–4 and the BIG–5.
Murder-Suicide in Workplace Violence
Authors: Lester David
Published: July 2014

In an analysis of 105 incidents of workplace violence in the USA from 1982 to 2002, the murderers who killed themselves after the incident killed more victims than those arrested. The workplace violence occurring at schools resulted in significantly more injured victims, but not more deceased victims.
Relations between Attachment, Resilience, and Earned Security in Japanese University Students
Authors: Shibue Yuko , Kasai Makiko
Published: July 2014

This study investigated the relations between attachment, resilience, and earned security in Japanese university students. It was hypothesized that resilience would have a positive relationship with attachment and that people who had an insecure attachment style but high resilience would also have high earned security. An earned security scale was developed, based on the Naikan thought scale and attachment theory. The earned-security scales, a resilience scale, and an internal working model scale were administered to 343 university students. Three trends were apparent: (1) positive correlations between secure attachment scores and resilience scores; (2) negative correlations between insecure ambivalent attachment scores and resilience scores, but people classified in the ambivalent attachment cluster and high resilience group had higher earned security; and (3) avoidant attachment scores had negligible correlations with resilience and earned security.
Assessment of Glenohumeral Subluxation in Poststroke Hemiplegia: Comparison Between Ultrasound and Fingerbreadth Palpation Methods
Authors: Kumar Praveen , Mardon Marianne , Bradley Michael , Gray Selena , Swinkels Annette
Published: July 2014

Background

Glenohumeral subluxation (GHS) is a common poststroke complication. Treatment of GHS is hampered by the lack of objective, real-time clinical measurements.

Objective

The aims of this study were: (1) to compare an ultrasound method of GHS measurement with the fingerbreadth palpation method using a receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) and (2) to report the sensitivity and specificity of this method.

Design

A prospective study was conducted.

Setting

The study was conducted in local hospitals and day centers in the southwest of England.

Patients

One hundred five patients who had one-sided weakness following a first-time stroke (51 men, 54 women; mean age=71 years, SD=11) and who gave informed consent were enrolled in the study.

Measurements

Ultrasound measurements of acromion–greater tuberosity (AGT) distance were used for the assessment of GHS. Measurements were undertaken on both shoulders by a research physical therapist trained in shoulder ultrasound with the patient seated in a standardized position. Fingerbreadth palpation assessment of GHS was undertaken by a clinical physical therapist based at the hospital, who also visited the day centers.

Results

The area under the ROC curve was 0.73 (95% confidence interval [95% CI]=0.63, 0.83), suggesting that the ultrasound method has good agreement compared with the fingerbreadth palpation method. A cutoff point of ≥0.2 cm AGT measurement difference between affected and unaffected shoulders generated a sensitivity of 68% (95% CI=51%, 75%), a specificity of 62% (95% CI=47%, 80%), a positive likelihood ratio of 1.79 (95% CI=1.1, 2.9), and a negative likelihood ratio of 0.55 (95% CI=0.4, 0.8).

Limitations

Clinical therapists involved in the routine care of patients conducted the fingerbreadth palpation method. It is likely that they were aware of the patients' subluxation status.

Conclusion

The ultrasound method can detect minor asymmetry (≤0.5 cm) and has the potential advantage over the fingerbreadth palpation method of identifying patients with minor subluxation.
Systematic literature analysis and review of targeted preventive measures to limit healthcare-associated infections by meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Köck R , Becker K , Cookson B , van Gemert-Pijnen J E , Harbarth S , Kluytmans J , Mielke M , Peters G , Skov R L , Struelens M J , Tacconelli E , Witte W , Friedrich A W
Published: July 2014

Meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a major cause of healthcare-associated infections in Europe. Many examples have demonstrated that the spread of MRSA within healthcare settings can be reduced by targeted infection control measures. The aim of this systematic literature analysis and review was to summarise the evidence for the use of bacterial cultures for active surveillance the benefit of rapid screening tests, as well as the use of decolonisation therapies and different types of isolation measures. We included 83 studies published between 2000 and 2012. Although the studies reported good evidence supporting the role of active surveillance followed by decolonisation therapy, the effectiveness of single-room isolation was mostly shown in non-controlled studies, which should inspire further research regarding this issue. Overall, this review highlighted that when planning the implementation of preventive interventions, there is a need to consider the prevalence of MRSA, the incidence of infections, the competing effect of standard control measures (e.g. hand hygiene) and the likelihood of transmission in the respective settings of implementation.
Editorial
Authors: Welch Penny , Wright Susan
Published: July 2014

Welcome to this issue of Learning and Teaching: The International Journal of Higher Education in the Social Sciences.
Responses to Ageeth Sluis and Elise Edwards, ‘Rethinking combined departments: an argument for History and Anthropology’, published in Learning and Teaching 6.1
Authors: Lyon Stephen M. , Abu Ghosh Yasar , Himl Pavel , Stöckelová Tereza , Storchová Lucie , Gibb Robert , Krause-Jensen Jakob , Lele Veerendra P.
Published: July 2014

The choice of interdisciplinarities

Stephen M. Lyon

Multidisciplinarity as a necessity and challenge: the Department of General Anthropology, Faculty of Humanities, Charles University in Prague (FHS UK)

Yasar Abu Ghosh, Pavel Himl, Tereza Stöckelová and Lucie Storchová

Response to Sluis and Edwards, 'Rethinking combined departments'

Robert Gibb

Response to Sluis and Edwards, 'Rethinking combined departments'

Jakob Krause-Jensen

Response to Sluis and Edwards, 'Rethinking combined departments'

Veerendra P. Lele

Response from the authors, Ageeth Sluis and Elise Edwards
Book Reviews
Authors: Huisman Jeroen , Scott Alan
Published: July 2014

Joyce E. Canaan and Wesley Shumar (2008) Structure and Agency in the Neoliberal University

Review by Jeroen Huisman

Roger Brown with Helen Carasso (2013) Everything for Sale? The Marketization of UK Higher Education

Review by Alan Scott
Residual tumor volume and patient survival following reoperation for recurrent glioblastoma
Authors: Yong Raymund L. , Wu Tianxia , Mihatov Nino , Shen Michael J. , Brown M. Anthony , Zaghloul Kareem A. , Park Grace E. , Park John K.
Published: July 2014

Object

Maximal safe tumor resection is part of the standard of care for patients with newly diagnosed glioblastoma. The role of reoperation in the care of patients with recurrent glioblastoma is less clear, and less than a quarter of patients undergo a second surgery. Previous studies have identified preoperative variables associated with the improved survival of patients following reoperation, and guidelines for the selection of patients for reoperation have been devised and validated. In this study, the authors analyzed the relative survival benefit of maximal safe tumor removal in a series of patients with recurrent glioblastoma who all underwent reoperation.

Methods

In this longitudinal study, the clinical and radiological data of 97 consecutive patients who underwent reoperation for recurrent glioblastoma were prospectively collected. Multiple regression analyses and Kaplan-Meier plotting were performed to identify pre- and postoperative clinical and radiological variables associated with increased survival following reoperation.

Results

The median postoperative survival of all patients following reoperation was 12.4 months (95% confidence interval [CI] 9.0–15.6 months). Multiple Cox regression analysis revealed that patients with large (> 3 cm3) residual tumors following reoperation had significantly decreased survival relative to those with residual tumors that were small (> 0–3 cm3; hazard ratio [HR] = 3.10, 95% CI 1.69–5.70; p < 0.001) or radiologically absent (0 cm3; HR = 5.82, 95% CI 2.98–11.37; p < 0.001). Large residual tumors had faster rates of subsequent regrowth than small (odds ratio [OR] = 4.22, 95% CI 1.19–14.97; p = 0.026) or radiologically absent (OR = 11.00, 95% CI 2.79–43.43; p = 0.001) residual tumors, and a faster regrowth rate was significantly associated with decreased survival (HR = 4.01, 95% CI 2.26–7.14; p < 0.001).

Conclusions

The overall survival of patients with recurrent glioblastoma who underwent reoperations increased with decreasing postoperative residual tumor volumes. For patients meeting prognostic criteria for reoperation, the surgical goal should be to minimize residual tumor volume to maximize overall survival. Clinical trial registration no.: NCT00060541 (ClinicalTrials.gov).
Multifocal intraparenchymal hemorrhages after ventriculoperitoneal shunt surgery in infants
Authors: Choi Jung Won , Kim Seung-Ki , Wang Kyu-Chang , Lee Ji Yeoun , Cheon Jung-Eun , Phi Ji Hoon
Published: July 2014

Object

Ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt surgery is the most common treatment for hydrocephalus. In certain situations, uncommon complications can occur after shunting procedures. The authors undertook this study to analyze the clinical characteristics of pediatric patients who developed multifocal intraparenchymal hemorrhages (MIPHs) as a complication of shunt surgery. The authors also analyzed the risk factors for MIPH in a large cohort of patients with hydrocephalus.

Methods

This study included all pediatric patients (age < 18 years) who underwent VP shunt surgery at the authors' institution between January 2001 and December 2012. During this period, 507 VP shunt operations were performed in 330 patients. Four of these patients were subsequently diagnosed as having MIPH. The authors analyzed the clinical characteristics of these patients in comparison with those of the entire group of shunt-treated patients.

Results

The incidence of MIPH was 1.2% (4 of 330 cases) for all pediatric patients who underwent VP shunt placement but 2.9% (4 of 140 cases) for infants less than 1 year old. When the analysis was limited to patients whose corrected age was less than 3 months, the incidence was 5.3% (4 of 76 cases). Of the 4 patients with MIPH, 2 were male and 2 were female. Their median age at surgery was 54 days (range 25–127 days), and in all 4 cases, the patients' corrected age was less than 1 month. Three patients were preterm infants, whereas one patient was full-term. None of these patients had a prior history of intracranial surgery (including CSF diversion procedures). All showed severe hydrocephalus during the preoperative period. Their clinical courses as patients with MIPH were comparatively favorable, despite the radiological findings.

Conclusions

MIPH is a rare but not negligible complication of VP shunt surgery. This complication might be a unique phenomenon in infants, especially young, preterm infants with severe hydrocephalus. Moreover, the absence of previous intracranial procedures might be one of the risk factors for this complication. The rapid alteration of brain conditions in the setting of immaturity might cause MIPH. To prevent this complication, the authors recommend that pressure settings of programmable valves should be gradually adapted to the target pressure.
Atypical location and clinical behavior of a subset of intracranial germ cell tumors in children younger than 3 years of age
Authors: Teo Wan-Yee , Ross Jennifer , Bollo Robert J. , Seow Wan-Tew , Tan Ah-Moy , Kang Seok-Gu , Kim Dong-Seok , Li Xiao-Nan , Lau Ching C. , Mohila Carrie A. , Adesina Adekunle M. , Su Jack M.
Published: July 2014

The authors describe a series of 15 intracranial germ cell tumors (IGCTs) excluding mature teratomas; 3 cases in children younger than 3 years of age who were treated at 3 different international institutions over the course of 20 years, and 12 from a PubMed search. These tumors, with possible in utero origins, often occur in atypical locations. The clinical behavior differed significantly from these tumors' counterparts in older children. In this young age group germinoma is highly aggressive, whereas nongerminomatous germ cell tumors may be cured without radiotherapy. Ongoing genomic studies reveal insights to attain an understanding of the biology of these tumors. New treatment strategies are needed to improve outcomes for IGCTs in this age group, particularly for germinomas.
Music Listening Behavior, Health, Hearing and Otoacoustic Emission Levels
Authors: Marron Kathleen , Sproat Brittany , Ross Danielle , Wagner Sarah , Alessio Helaine
Published: July 2014

This study examined the relationship between hearing levels, otoacoustic emission levels and listening habits related to the use of personal listening devices (PLDs) in adults with varying health-related fitness. Duration of PLD use was estimated and volume level was directly measured. Biomarkers of health-related fitness were co-factored into the analyses. 115 subjects ages 18–84 participated in this study. Subjects were divided into two sub-groups; PLD users and non-PLD users. Both groups completed audiological and health-related fitness tests. Due to the mismatch in the mean age of the PLD user versus the non-PLD user groups, age-adjusted statistics were performed to determine factors that contributed to hearing levels. Age was the most significant predictor of hearing levels across listening and health-related fitness variables. PLD user status did not impact hearing measures, yet PLD users who listened less than 8 hours per week with intensities of less than 80 dBA were found to have better hearing. Other variables found to be associated with hearing levels included: years listening to PLD, number of noise environments and use of ear protection. Finally, a healthy waist-to-hip ratio was a significant predictor of better hearing, while body mass index approached, but did not reach statistical significance.
Receptor for Advanced Glycation End Products (RAGE) and Its Ligands: Focus on Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Song Juhyun , Lee Won , Park Kyung , Lee Jong
Published: July 2014

Spinal cord injury (SCI) results in neuronal and glial death and the loss of axons at the injury site. Inflammation after SCI leads to the inhibition of tissue regeneration and reduced neuronal survival. In addition, the loss of axons after SCI results in functional loss below the site of injury accompanied by neuronal cell body’s damage. Consequently, reducing inflammation and promoting axonal regeneration after SCI is a worthy therapeutic goal. The receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) is a transmembrane protein and receptor of the immunoglobulin superfamily. RAGE is implicated in inflammation and neurodegeneration. Several recent studies demonstrated an association between RAGE and central nervous system disorders through various mechanisms. However, the relationship between RAGE and SCI has not been shown. It is imperative to elucidate the association between RAGE and SCI, considering that RAGE relates to inflammation and axonal degeneration following SCI. Hence, the present review highlights recent research regarding RAGE as a compelling target for the treatment of SCI.
Green Perylene Bisimide Dyes: Synthesis, Photophysical and Electrochemical Properties
Authors: Chang Che-Wei , Tsai Hsing-Yang , Chen Kew-Yu
Published: July 2014

Three asymmetric amino-substituted perylene bisimide dyes with different n-alkyl chain lengths (n = 6, 12, or 18), 1-(N,N-dialkylamino)perylene bisimides (1a–1c), were synthesized under mild condition in high yields and were characterized by 1H NMR, 13C NMR (nuclear magnetic resonance), HRMS (High Resolution Mass Spectrometer), UV-Vis and fluorescence spectra, as well as cyclic voltammetry (CV). These molecules show intense green color in both solution and solid state and are highly soluble in dichloromethane and even in nonpolar solvents, such as hexane. The shapes of the absorption spectra of 1a–1c in solid state and in solution were found to be virtually the same, indicating that the long alkyl chains could efficiently prevent aggregation. They exhibit a unique charge transfer emission in the near-infrared region, of which the peak wavelengths show strong solvatochromism. The dipole moments of the compounds have been estimated using the Lippert-Mataga equation, and upon excitation, they show larger dipole moment changes than that of 1-aminoperylene bisimide (2). Furthermore, all of the compounds exhibit two quasi-reversible one-electron oxidations and two quasi-reversible one-electron reductions in dichloromethane at modest potentials. Complementary density functional theory (DFT) calculations performed on these dyes are reported in order to rationalize their molecular structures and electronic properties.
Desorption of Water from Distinct Step Types on a Curved Silver Crystal
Authors: Janlamool Jakrapan , Bashlakov Dima , Berg Otto , Praserthdam Piyasan , Jongsomjit Bunjerd , Juurlink Ludo
Published: July 2014

We have investigated the adsorption of H2O onto the A and B type steps on an Ag single crystal by temperature programmed desorption. For this study, we have used a curved crystal exposing a continuous range of surface structures ranging from [5(111) × (100)] via (111) to [5(111) × (110)]. LEED and STM studies verify that the curvature of our sample results predominantly from monoatomic steps. The sample thus provides a continuous array of step densities for both step types. Desorption probed by spatially-resolved TPD of multilayers of H2O shows no dependence on the exact substrate structure and thus confirms the absence of thermal gradients during temperature ramps. In the submonolayer regime, we observe a small and linear dependence of the desorption temperature on the A and B step density. We argue that such small differences are only observable by means of a single curved crystal, which thus establishes new experimental benchmarks for theoretical calculation of chemically accurate binding energies. We propose an origin of the observed behavior based on a “two state” desorption model.
Accumulation of Astragalosides and Related Gene Expression in Different Organs of Astragalus Membranaceus Bge. var Mongholicus (Bge.)
Authors: Kim Yeon , Thwe Aye , Li Xiaohua , Tuan Pham , Lee Sanghyun , Lee Jong , Arasu Mariadhas , Al-Dhabi Naif , Park Sang
Published: July 2014

Astragalus membranaceus is one of the most important traditional Korean and Chinese medicinal herbs because it contains triterpenoid saponins (astragaloside I, II, III, and IV), which have beneficial and pharmacological effects on health. In this study, we analyzed 10 mevalonate pathway genes that are involved in astragaloside biosynthesis using the Illumina/Solexa HiSeq2000 platform. We determined the expression levels of the 10 genes using quantitative real-time PCR, and analyzed the accumulation of astragalosides in different organs using high-performance liquid chromatography. Genes related to the mevalonate pathway were expressed in different levels in different organs. Almost all genes showed high transcript levels in the stem and leaf, with the lowest transcript levels being recorded in the root. In contrast, most astragalosides accumulated in the root. In particular, the astragaloside IV content was distributed in the following order: root (0.58 mg/g DW) > flower (0.27 mg/g DW) > stem (0.23 mg/g DW) > leaf (0.04 mg/g DW). In the root, astragaloside II exhibited the highest content (2.09 mg/g DW) compared to astragaloside I, III, and IV. Notably, gene expression did not follow the same pattern as astragaloside accumulation. We suggest carefully that astragalosides are synthesized in the leaves and stem and then translocated to the root. This study contributes towards improving our understanding of astragaloside biosynthesis in A. membranaceus.
Design Criteria for Generating Physiologically Relevant In Vitro Models in Bioreactors
Authors: Mattei Giorgio , Giusti Serena , Ahluwalia Arti
Published: July 2014

In this paper, we discuss the basic design requirements for the development of physiologically meaningful in vitro systems comprising cells, scaffolds and bioreactors, through a bottom up approach. Very simple micro- and milli-fluidic geometries are first used to illustrate the concepts, followed by a real device case-study. At each step, the fluidic and mass transport parameters in biological tissue design are considered, starting from basic questions such as the minimum number of cells and cell density required to represent a physiological system and the conditions necessary to ensure an adequate nutrient supply to tissues. At the next level, we consider the use of three-dimensional scaffolds, which are employed both for regenerative medicine applications and for the study of cells in environments which better recapitulate the physiological milieu. Here, the driving need is the rate of oxygen supply which must be maintained at an appropriate level to ensure cell viability throughout the thickness of a scaffold. Scaffold and bioreactor design are both critical in defining the oxygen profile in a cell construct and are considered together. We also discuss the oxygen-shear stress trade-off by considering the levels of mechanical stress required for hepatocytes, which are the limiting cell type in a multi-organ model. Similar considerations are also made for glucose consumption in cell constructs. Finally, the allometric approach for generating multi-tissue systemic models using bioreactors is described.
Improving Lithological Mapping by SVM Classification of Spectral and Morphological Features: The Discovery of a New Chromite Body in the Mawat Ophiolite Complex (Kurdistan, NE Iraq)
Authors: Othman Arsalan , Gloaguen Richard
Published: July 2014

The mineral ore potential of many mountainous regions of the world, like the Kurdistan region of Iraq, remains unexplored. For logistical and sometimes political reasons, these areas are difficult to map using traditional methods. We highlight the improvement in remote sensing geological mapping that arises from the integration of geomorphic features in classifications. The Mawat Ophiolite Complex (MOC) is located in the NE of Iraq and is known for its mineral deposits. The aims of this study are: (I) to refine the existing lithological map of the MOC; (II) to identify the best discriminatory datasets for lithological classification, including geomorphic features and textures; and (III) to identify potential locations with high concentrations of chromite. We performed a Support Vector Machine (SVM) classification method to allow the joint use of geomorphic features, textures and multispectral data of the Advanced Space-borne Thermal Emission and Reflection radiometer (ASTER) satellite. The updated map allowed the identification of a new mafic body and a substantial improvement of the geometry of the known lithological units. The use of geomorphic features allowed for the increase of the overall accuracy from 73% to 79.3%. In addition, we detected chromite occurrences within the ophiolite by applying Spectral Angle Mapping (SAM) technique. We identified two new locations having high concentrations of chromite and verified one of these promising areas in the field. This new body covers ~0.3 km2 and has coarsely crystalline chromite within dunite host rock. The chromium (Cr2O3) concentration is ~8.46%. The SAM and SVM methods applied on ASTER satellite data show that these can be used as a powerful tool to explore ore deposits and to further improve lithological mapping in mountainous semi-arid regions.
Disseminating Ambient Assisted Living in Rural Areas
Authors: Leitner Gerhard , Felfernig Alexander , Fercher Anton , Hitz Martin
Published: July 2014

The smart home, ambient intelligence and ambient assisted living have been intensively researched for decades. Although rural areas are an important potential market, because they represent about 80% of the territory of the EU countries and around 125 million inhabitants, there is currently a lack of applicable AAL solutions. This paper discusses the theoretical foundations of AAL in rural areas. This discussion is underlined by the achievements of the empirical field study, Casa Vecchia, which has been carried out over a four-year period in a rural area in Austria. The major goal of Casa Vecchia was to evaluate the feasibility of a specific form of AAL for rural areas: bringing AAL technology to the homes of the elderly, rather than moving seniors to special-equipped care facilities. The Casa Vecchia project thoroughly investigated the possibilities, challenges and drawbacks of AAL related to this specific approach. The findings are promising and somewhat surprising and indicate that further technical, interactional and socio-psychological research is required to make AAL in rural areas reasonable in the future.
Virus Outbreaks in Chemical and Biological Sensors
Authors: Hwang Inseong
Published: July 2014

Filamentous bacteriophages have successfully been used to detect chemical and biological analytes with increased selectivity and sensitivity. The enhancement largely originates not only from the ability of viruses to provide a platform for the surface display of a wide range of biological ligands, but also from the geometric morphologies of the viruses that constitute biomimetic structures with larger surface area-to-volume ratio. This review will appraise the mechanism of multivalent display of the viruses that enables surface modification of virions either by chemical or biological methods. The accommodation of functionalized virions to various materials, including polymers, proteins, metals, nanoparticles, and electrodes for sensor applications will also be discussed.
Buildings Energy Efficiency: Interventions Analysis under a Smart Cities Approach
Authors: Battista Gabriele , Evangelisti Luca , Guattari Claudia , Basilicata Carmine , De Lieto Vollaro Roberto
Published: July 2014

Most of the world’s population lives in urban areas and in inefficient buildings under the energy point of view. Starting from these assumptions, there is the need to identify methodologies and innovations able to improve social development and the quality of life of people living in cities. Smart cities can be a viable solution. The methodology traditionally adopted to evaluate building energy efficiency starts from the structure’s energy demands analysis and the demands reduction evaluation. Consequently, the energy savings is assessed through a cascade of interventions. Regarding the building envelope, the first intervention is usually related to the reduction of the thermal transmittance value, but there is also the need to emphasize the building energy savings through other parameters, such as the solar gain factor and dye solar absorbance coefficients. In this contribution, a standard building has been modeled by means of the well-known dynamic software, TRNSYS. This study shows a parametrical analysis through which it is possible to evaluate the effect of each single intervention and, consequently, its influence on the building energy demand. Through this analysis, an intervention chart has been carried out, aiming to assess the intervention efficiency starting from the percentage variation of energy demands.
Flow Forecasting using Deterministic Updating of Water Levels in Distributed Hydrodynamic Urban Drainage Models
Authors: Hansen Lisbet , Borup Morten , Møller Arne , Mikkelsen Peter
Published: July 2014

There is a growing requirement to generate more precise model simulations and forecasts of flows in urban drainage systems in both offline and online situations. Data assimilation tools are hence needed to make it possible to include system measurements in distributed, physically-based urban drainage models and reduce a number of unavoidable discrepancies between the model and reality. The latter can be achieved partly by inserting measured water levels from the sewer system into the model. This article describes how deterministic updating of model states in this manner affects a simulation, and then evaluates and documents the performance of this particular updating procedure for flow forecasting. A hypothetical case study and synthetic observations are used to illustrate how the Update method works and affects downstream nodes. A real case study in a 544 ha urban catchment furthermore shows that it is possible to improve the 20-min forecast of water levels in an updated node and the three-hour forecast of flow through a downstream node, compared to simulations without updating. Deterministic water level updating produces better forecasts when implemented in large networks with slow flow dynamics and with measurements from upstream basins that contribute significantly to the flow at the forecast location.