bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Twin deficits in small open Baltic economies
Authors: Suliková Veronika , Sinicáková Marianna , Horváth Denis
Published: April 2014

This paper analyzes the twin deficit hypothesis - simultaneous current
account deficit and budget deficit - in three small open Baltic countries
(Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania) running under certain forms of the fixed
exchange rate regime. The idea of twin deficits is tested using the vector
error correction model (VECM), Granger causality tests and forecast variance
decomposition, involving three variables: current account, budget balance,
and investments. The new estimates confirm significant long-run positive
relation between budget balance and current account in Estonia and Lithuania
on one hand and the negative one in case of budget balance and investments in
all three considered countries. The results of the analysis are specific to
each country as they depend on their particular macroeconomic background. The
contribution was elaborated within the project VEGA 1/0973/11.
Evaluation of reversal osteofixation using K-wires in digital replantation
Authors: Vucetic Cedomir , Vukasinovic Zoran , Manojlovic Radovan , Tulic Goran , Vuckovic Cedo , Spasovski Dusko , Todorovic Aleksandar , Bumbasirevic Marko
Published: April 2014

Introduction. Modified, reversal technique of fixation in digital
replantation using K-wires was analyzed. The results obtained from the
standard technique and reversal technique of fixation using K-wires were
compared. Objective. The aim was to compare the results of osteofixation
using K-wires in digital replantation when either standard or reversal,
modified technique was used. Methods. A retrospective study included 103
replanted fingers in 72 patients. The first group included standard fixation
using K-wires and the second group included fixation using K-wires, but with
a modified technique. Modification consisted of the opposite order of moves
during the phalanges fixation compared to the standard technique: first,
K-wire was introduced intramedullary in the proximal phalanx and the top of
the wire was drawn out through the skin in proximal part of the finger or
hand. Second, distal part of the wire was introduced in the phalanx of the
amputated part of the finger intramedullary until the wire entered the
cortex. Results. Duration of bone healing after digital replantation was
shorter in cases where reversal technique was used in comparison with
standard technique (7.2 weeks compared to 7.5 weeks). Conclusion. The
comparison of standard and reversal technique of phalangeal fixation with
K-wires in digital replantation shows that both techniques are useful.
Reversal technique expands the choice of operative techniques for bone
fixation during the replantation. It shows some advantages and enables
avoidance of vein injuries.
Higher percentage of in vitro apoptotic cells at time of diagnosis in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia indicate earlier treatment requirement: Ten years follow up
Authors: Kravic-Stevovic Tamara , Bogdanovic Andrija , Bumbasirevic Vladimir
Published: April 2014

Introduction. Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) has an extremely variable
clinical course. Biological reasons for that wide variation in clinical
course and survival rates in CLL patients are not fully understood.
Objective. The aim of the study was to evaluate the value of spontaneous
apoptosis of CLL cells in vitro determined at presentation of disease, in
prediction of treatment requirements and evolution of the CLL. Methods.
Malignant B cells were isolated from the whole blood of 30 newly diagnosed
CLL patients and cultured for 24 hours in RPMI-1640 medium supplemented with
10% of serum obtained from the same CLL patient. Cells were later fixed and
processed for embedding in Epon, or cell smears were prepared and stained
with TUNEL technique. Results. Ten-year follow-up revealed that patients with
lower percentage of cells in apoptosis at presentation of disease had
significant longer time treatment initiation (log rank test p<0.05). On the
contrary, apoptosis of CLL cells was not shown to have significant impact on
survival of patients (Kaplan Meier log rank test p>0.05). Conclusion. The
results of this study emphasize the importance of apoptosis of CLL cells at
the time of the initial diagnosis in pathobiology of this disease.
Examination of possible role of the chlamydial stress proteins in pathogenesis of ectopic pregnancy
Authors: Vivoda Maja , Arsic Biljana , Garalejic Eliana , Cirkovic Ivana , Djukic Slobodanka
Published: April 2014

Introduction. Chlamydia trachomatis infections are the most prevalent
bacterial sexually transmitted infections recognized throughout the world. In
the last few years, several studies have indicated that predisposition of C.
trachomatis to persist within the host cell is recognized as a major factor
in the pathogenesis of chlamydial infection. During persistent chlamydial
infection, the stress protein hsp60 is synthesized continually as
immunopathologic antigen. Antibodies to hsp60 are found in women with tubal
occlusion, but these antibodies are not detected in women with the acute C.
trachomatis infection, which indicates that hsp60 has an important role in
pathogenesis of persistant chlamydial infection. Objective. The aim of this
study was to determine the role of chlamydial stress proteins (heat shock
proteins) in pathogenesis of ectopic pregnancy. Methods. The study included
40 women with ectopic pregnancy (experimental group) and 34 women with normal
pregnancy (control group). C. trachomatis was detected in endocervical smears
by direct immunofluorescence test, while specific antibodies against
Chlamydia spp. and against hsp60 were detected by ELISA. Results. DIF method
detected the presence of C. trachomatis in 12.5% of women with the ectopic
pregnancy and 17.6% of women with normal pregnancy. IgG antibodies against
Chlamydia spp. were found in 57.5% of women with the ectopic pregnancy and
26.5% of women with normal pregnancy. IgA antibodies were positive in 37.5%
of women with the ectopic pregnancy and 2.9% of women with normal pregnancy.
IgG antibodies against hsp60 were positive in 37.5% of women with the ectopic
pregnancy and 14.7% of women with normal pregnancy. Conclusion. The results
of this study have proven the correlation between the ectopic pregnancy and
the presence of IgG antibodies to chlamydial hsp60.
Assessment of required resources for implementation of national breast cancer screening program in Serbia
Authors: Majstorovic Nemanja , Simic Snezana , Matejic Bojana , Cudanov Mladen
Published: April 2014

Introduction. High values of standardized mortality and morbidity rates of
standardized cancer mortality in Serbia, especially colorectal, cervical and
breast cancer led to creation of national programs for their early detection
and engagement of the international support for their implementation.
Objective. Assessment of required resources (time, personnel, financial) to
implement the National program for screening of breast cancer in the Republic
of Serbia. Methods. Three possible scenarios have been prepared (optimistic,
realistic and pessimistic) based on the expected coverage by screening of
women aged 45 to 69 years, and time, personnel and financial feasibility
estimates were made for a two-year screening cycle. Results. Time aspect of
feasibility even under conditions of ?relaxation? of the assumption on the
number of working days during the year did not question feasibility of any of
the scenarios. Personnel feasibility is only possible in the pessimistic
scenario, while the financial feasibility only makes sense in optimistic
scenario as the least unfavorable solution due to economies of scale.
Conclusion. Establishment of the initial base of skilled radiologists and
radiology technicians and the system for their continuous medical education
as well as allocation of specific MoH budget line for screening program
expenditures, along with donated mammographs and good organization and
coordination, may provide unobstructed implementation of the National program
for early detection of breast cancer in the Republic of Serbia.
Post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder: Case reports of three children with kidney transplant
Authors: Spasojevic-Dimitrijeva Brankica , Peco-Antic Amira , Paripovic Dusan , Kruscic Divna , Krstic Zoran , Cupic Maja , Cvetkovic Mirjana , Milosevski-Lomic Gordana , Kostic Mirjana
Published: April 2014

Introduction. Post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD) is a
heterogeneous group of diseases, characterized by abnormal lymphoid
proliferation following transplantation. It is a disease of the
immunosuppressed state, and its occurrence is mostly associated with the use
of T-cell depleting agents, and also intensification of immunosuppressive
regimens. In the majority of cases, PTLD is a consequence of Epstein-Barr
virus (EBV) infection and is a B-cell hyperplasia with CD-20 positive
lymphocytes. The 2008 World Health Organization classification for lymphoid
malignancies divides PTLD into four major categories: early lesions,
polymorphic PTLD, monomorphic PTLD and Hodgkin PTLD. The treatment and
prognosis depend on histology. The cornerstone of PTLD therapy includes
reduction/withdrawal of immunosuppression, monoclonal anti CD-20 antibody
(rituximab) and chemotherapy. Outline of Cases. We reported here our
experiences with three patients, two girls aged 7.5 and 15 and a 16-year old
boy. They had different organ involvement: brain, combined spleen-liver and
intestines, respectively. Even though EBV was a trigger of lymphoid
proliferation as it was confirmed by histopathology or in cerebrospinal
fluid, qualitative EBV-PCR was positive only in one patient at disease
presentation. Reduction of immunosuppression therapy was applied in treatment
of all three patients, while two of them received rituximab and ganciclovir.
They had an excellent outcome besides many difficulties in diagnosis and
management of disease. Conclusion. Qualitative EBV-PCR is not useful marker
in pediatric transplant recipients. Our suggestion is that patients with the
risk factors like T-cell depleting agents, immunosuppressant protocol or
increasing immunosuppressive therapy and EBV miss-match with donor must be
more accurately monitored with quantitative EBV PCR.
Congenital pseudarthrosis of lower leg treated by almost outdated method: Case report
Authors: Vukasinovic Zoran , Spasovski Dusko , Seslija Igor , Gavrankapetanovic Ismet , Bazdar Elvir , Zivkovic Zorica
Published: April 2014

Introduction. Congenital pseudarthrosis of tibia is a rare congenital
deformity with progressive evolution. Treatment is vague and difficult, and
many methods have been used - from once mandatory early amputation to
contemporary operative (Ilizarov method, free microvascular fibular graft)
and adjuvant methods (electrostimulation, biphosphonates, bone morphogenetic
protein). We present the usage of once popular method of homologous graft
insertion and intramedullary fixation. Case Outline. This is a case report of
male patient with pseudarthrosis involving both crural bones (Boyd type 5),
diagnosed in neonatal age. Early conservative treatment was unsuccessful, so
child never initiated gait. At the age of three and a half years, operative
treatment was applied: resection of pseudarthrosis on both tibia and fibula,
and osteoplasty of tibia using cylindric homologous graft and intramedullary
fixation with transtarsal Steinman pin, followed by long leg cast
immobilization. Pin was removed after ten months, and physical therapy was
initiated 1.5 year after surgery, with initial to partial weight bearing and
short leg cast throughout another year. Two and a half years after surgery
complete union of graft was documented, and then full weight bearing was
allowed. At final visit, five years and three months after surgery, shin axis
was correct, leg lengths were equal, and child had normal walk with full
range of motion. X-ray showed complete union of both tibia and fibula.
Conclusion. Despite bad prognostic factors (young age, severe deformity),
utilization of obsolete and almost forgotten treatment methods can provide
excellent result.
Black esophagus - case report
Authors: Nikolic Slobodan , Zivkovic Vladimir
Published: April 2014

Introduction. Diseases of the gastrointestinal system, and especially
diseases of esophagus, are a rare cause of sudden unexpected death in any age
group. Black esophagus is an acute necrotizing inflammation of the mucosa of
the lower parts of esophagus, diffusely affecting its entire circumference.
This inflammation could be a source of profuse bleeding and cause sudden
unexpected death. Case Outline. A case of 76-year-old male was presented
herein. He has been treated for hypertension and diabetes for several years.
As a consequence of stroke, which happened several months prior to death, he
had been hemiplegic and immobilized. He died in hospital, suddenly and
unexpectedly. The autopsy showed the acute necrotizing esophagitis, as well
as the acute gastric and duodenal erosions of mucosa. These were the causes
of fatal blood loss. Conclusion. Acute necrotizing esophagitis should be
recognized during autopsy and related to the immediate cause of death as well
as to concomitant diseases of other organs, which either potentiate or
facilitate presentation of this disease.
The application of air abrasion in dentistry
Authors: Mandinic Zoran , Vulicevic Zoran , Beloica Milos , Radovic Ivana , Mandic Jelena , Carevic Momir , Tekic Jasmina
Published: April 2014

One of the main objectives of contemporary dentistry is to preserve healthy
tooth structure by applying techniques of noninvasive treatment. Air abrasion
is a minimally invasive nonmechanical technique of tooth preparation that
uses kinetic energy to remove carious tooth structure. A powerful narrow
stream of moving aluminum-oxide particles hit the tooth surface and they
abrade it without heat, vibration or noise. Variables that affect speed of
cutting include air pressure, particle size, powder flow, tip?s size, angle
and distance from the tooth. It has been proposed that air abrasion can be
used to diagnose early occlusal-surface lesions and treat them with minimal
tooth preparation using magnifier. Reported advantages of air abrasion
include reduced noise, vibration and sensitivity. Air abrasion cavity
preparations have more rounded internal contours than those prepared with
straight burs. This may increase the longevity of placed restorations because
it reduces the incidence of fractures and a consequence of decreased internal
stresses. However, air abrasion cannot be used for all patients, i.e. in
cases involving severe dust allergy, asthma, chronic obstructive lung
disease, recent extraction or other oral surgery, open wounds, advanced
periodontal disease, recent placement of orthodontic appliances and oral
abrasions, or subgingival caries removal. Many of these conditions increase
the risk of air embolism in the oral soft tissues. Dust control is a
challenge, and it necessitates the use of rubber dam, high-volume evacuation,
protective masks and safety eyewear for both the patient and the therapist.
Current concepts of pathophysiology, epidemiology and classification of pruritus
Authors: Jovanovic Marina
Published: April 2014

Discovery of pruritus-specific mediators and receptors facilitated the
neurobiological concept of pruritus: itch-specific (histamine-dependent and
histamine-independent C-fibers); itch-specific receptors on cutaneous and
spinal neurons; ?dialogue? between the pruritus-specific neurons and cells in
the skin; peripheral and central mediation of pruritus; functional
?pruritus-specific matrix? in the brain with a role of pruritus center. In
10%-50% of persons without skin diseases, pruritus is considered the
manifestation of a systemic disorder. Identification of pruritus within
autoimmune and inflammatory diseases in dermatology is based on the clinical
picture and nature of the underlying disease, implying the development of
pruritus on primarily and/or secondarily inflamed skin. In the internal
medicine, pruritus commonly presents on primarily non-inflamed skin.,
involvement of the skin and gastrointestinal tract are two independent risk
factors of pruritus in systemic sclerosis, and of anal/vulvar pruritus.
Classification combines etiological and clinical criteria and should be
considered the only segment of a comprehensive approach to pruritus of
unknown origin.
Uterine myomas in pregnancy, childbirth and puerperium
Authors: Sparic Radmila
Published: April 2014

Fibroids are the most common benign tumors of the genital organs of women in
reproductive age. Achieving reproductive function later in life, with more
frequent use of assisted reproductive technologies, leads to an increased
number of pregnancies complicated with fibroids. Their size may change during
pregnancy, but the changes are mostly individual. Most fibroids stop growing
or decline during the puerperium. The effect of fibroids on pregnancy depends
on their number, size and location. The mechanisms bringing about perinatal
complications are not fully understood. Fibroids during pregnancy can cause
many perinatal complications, such as bleeding in pregnancy, miscarriage,
pain due to red degeneration, malpresentation, preterm labor, premature
rupture of membranes, placental abruption and obstruction of delivery and are
associated with higher incidence of cesarean section, operative vaginal
delivery, uterine atony and postpartum hemorrhage. Postpartum hysterectomy in
these women is also more likely than in general population. Postpartum
infections are more common in patients with fibroids, and myomas may also
cause retained placenta. The most common cause of neonatal morbidity is
prematurity, due to pregnancy ending in an earlier gestational age.
Monitoring of pregnancies complicated with fibroids is essentially
indistinguishable from monitoring normal pregnancies. Therapy includes only
bed rest and observation, symptomatic therapy in case of pain and intensive
fetal surveillance, and surgery in the acute situations.
The concentration of tumor necrosis factor alpha in periapical lesions
Authors: Popovic Jelena , Cvetkovic Tatjana , Dzopalic Tanja , Mitic Aleksandar , Nikolic Marija , Barac Radomir , Zivkovic Slavoljub
Published: April 2014

Introduction. The balance between proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory
cytokines plays an important role in the pathogenesis of chronic periapical
lesions. The aim of this study was to determine the concentration of TNF-? in
tissue homogenates of periapical lesions and analyze its levels in relation
to the symptomatology and the size of lesions. Materials and Methods. 93
samples of chronic periapical lesions were obtained after extraction of
teeth. Samples were classified according to the clinical presentation as
symptomatic and asymptomatic, and according to the size as large and small.
The concentration of TNF-? was analyzed using ELISA. Results. The results
showed increased production of TNF-? in symptomatic lesions compared to
asymptomatic. Higher concentration of TNF-? was demonstrated in large lesions
compared to small. Large symptomatic lesions showed greater concentration of
TNF-? compared to small symptomatic lesions, while bigger asymptomatic
lesions demonstrated higher amount of the cytokines compared to small
asymptomatic lesions. Conclusion. Higher concentration of TNF-? in large
symptomatic lesions indicates that TNF-? is an important factor responsible
for the progression of lesions.
Oral health status of people with mental disabilities in the municipality of Banja Luka
Authors: Ilic Sanja , Djeri Aleksandra , Pasagic Ljubica , Pavlic Verica , Jankovic Ognjenka
Published: April 2014

Introduction. Oral health of mentally disabled people in Republika Srpska is
on very low level. The greatest number of these persons is often edentulous
or with a small number of teeth with extensive caries, high DMFT index and
severe periodontal diseases. The aim of this study was to determine oral
health status of people with mental disabilities in the municipality of Banja
Luka. Material and Methods. Study included 95 patients (45 females and 50
males), aged 15 to 45 years. The subjects were divided into two groups
according to the degree of mental impairment: ICD-10 F71 (65 respondents) and
F72 (30 respondents). Dental assessment included: number of present teeth,
presence of caries, restorations, number of extracted teeth, presence of
residual roots, fractures, presence and number of fixed restorations,
gingival and plaque index. Results. The mean DMFT index in patients with
severe mental disability was high (17.4), while it was 12.3 in patients with
mild disability. The mean value of person caries index (PCI) was 100%. In
addition, the mean value of teeth caries index (TCI) in severely disabled
persons was 58.1 whereas in those with mild intellectual disability it was
42.4. Average caries index (ACI) in patients with severe mental disability
was 16.9 while in the group of patients with mild disability this value was
10.2. Plaque index in severely disabled people was 2.4, while in the second
group (mild disability) it was 1.9. Gingival index in patients with severe
mental disability was 1.8 and in mild disability group it was 1.3.
Conclusion. People with mental disabilities in the municipality of Banjaluka
have poor oral health. They do not have habits, attitudes and behavior
towards oral health.
Indirect pulp capping using different calcium hydroxide products: A clinical study
Authors: Kuzmanovic-Radman Irena , Djeri Aleksandra , Arbutina Adriana , Jankovic Ognjenka , Josipovic Renata , Knezevic Natasa
Published: April 2014

Introduction. Indirect pulp capping is a therapeutic intervention in the
treatment of deep carious lesion in order to stimulate odontoblasts to
produce tertiary dentin using different biomaterials based mainly on calcium
hydroxide. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of hard-setting
(Dycal) and a suspension of calcium hydroxide (Calcipulp) in the treatment of
deep carious lesion (caries profunda). Materials and Methods. Clinical study
included 29 patients of both genders, age 16 to 40, and 45 teeth of different
morphological groups with verified caries profunda using clinical and
radiographic examination. After the cavity preparation, calcium hydroxide
materials (Dycal or Calcipulp) were applied on the pulpal wall and cavities
temporarily restored (phosphate cement) for the period of two months. After
this period cavities were restored with composite materials and clinically
observed during twelve months, with mandatory check-ups after three and six
months. Results. Obtained results showed that indirect pulp capping using
calcium hydroxide suspension (90.0%) was more successful than hard-setting
material (84.0%), but with no statistically significant difference.
Conclusion. Suspension and hard-setting calcium hydroxide were equally
successful in the treatment of caries profunda.
What Drives Auditor Selection?
Authors: Almer Elizabeth Dreike , Philbrick Donna R. , Rupley Kathleen Hertz
Published: April 2014

This study provides evidence on the factors that currently impact audit committee members' selection of external auditors. Using a two-stage approach, we survey and interview public company audit committee members (ACMs), and find evidence that management continues to provide input into the decision process even as SOX regulations require audit committees to take responsibility for the auditor selection decision. ACMs view management as an important information source when they assess the proposing audit partner's reputation for accessibility, timeliness, and ability to liaise with the firm's national technical office, as well as the proposing audit firm's technical and industry expertise. Results of this study can help firms be more competitive in the audit bidding process, inform policy makers when considering whether to impose further audit committee regulations, and aid academics in ensuring an up-to-date understanding of the audit committee's role in the auditor selection process.
Evolution of Accounting Controls in a De-Integrated Project Structure: A Case of Hybridization
Authors: Harrigan Fiona
Published: April 2014

This paper studies accounting controls in the design and production of the 787 aircraft project by Boeing Commercial Aircraft Group (BCAG). The literature strongly supports the role of accounting control systems in operationalizing de-integrated structures, acknowledging that such systems may become “hybrids” of accounting and technological practices. Hybrid processes are critical in operationalizing network forms and allowing products and technologies to be developed in “virtual” spaces. As accounting encounters hybrids (e.g., costing of product specifications, technological performance standards) it renders them calculable and measurable. Simultaneously, accounting becomes hybridized in interaction with other disciplines. Empirical findings from a case study revealed that accounting control practices used by Boeing on the 787 project closely intertwine with IT practices and design technology, suggesting significant “hybridization” of accounting practices with these fields.
Online Business Reporting: A Signaling Theory Perspective
Authors: Basoglu Kamile Asli , Hess Traci J.
Published: April 2014

The reporting of business information on websites, hereafter referred to as electronic business reporting (e-BR), continues to gain widespread acceptance as the Internet provides an inexpensive channel for delivering timely financial and nonfinancial information to investors. The online environment facilitates both the delivery of traditional text-based reporting content and the use of enhanced multimedia for displaying nonfinancial content, including elements such as images, presentations, video, and social media features. Signaling theory and research on trust was applied to develop a signaling research model and investigate how the reporting of nonfinancial content in e-BR can serve as a signal, specifically with nonprofessional investors. An experimental study was conducted in which the quality of e-BR and company performance was varied to investigate how e-BR influences perceptions of investment quality and intentions. The findings suggest that the nonfinancial content in e-BR influences perceptions of trustworthiness and perceived investment quality. When financial performance is low, high-quality e-BR enhances investors' perceptions of investment quality, which in return influences investment intentions.
Assessment of Learning and Study Strategies of University Students in Qatar Using an Arabic Translation of the Learning and Study Strategies Inventory
Authors: Alkhateeb Haitham M. , Nasser Ramzi
Published: April 2014

413 (119 men, 294 women) undergraduate university students in Qatar completed an Arabic version of the Learning and Study Strategies Inventory (LASSI) measuring Anxiety, Attitude, Concentration, Information Processing, Motivation, Self-testing, Selecting Main Ideas, Study Aids, Time Management, and Test Strategies. The students' learning and study strategies scores were similar to those reported in the literature. Factor analysis indicated the same general factors as in the original study. Internal consistency estimates ranged from .62 to .88. Nine of the 10 scales (i.e., all with the exception of the Study Aids) significantly correlated with students' GPAs. Scores obtained from these scales provide valid assessments of Qatar University students' use of learning and study strategies related to skill, will, and self-regulation components of strategic learning and also academic achievement. There also were statistically significant differences between higher and lower achieving students in their learning and study strategies. This study also explored the use of the LASSI as a predictive measure of academic achievement. Anxiety and test strategies were significant predictors of academic achievement as measured by students' GPA.
Accuracy of 18F-flurodeoxyglucosepositron emission tomography/computed tomography in the staging of newly diagnosed nasopharyngeal carcinoma: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Vellayappan Balamurugan A. , Soon Yu Yang , Earnest Arul , Zhang Qing , Koh Wee Yao , Tham Ivan Weng Keong , Lee Khai Mun
Published: April 2014

Background. The specific role of 18F-flurodeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography/computed tomography (FDG-PET/CT) in staging of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) remains to be validated. A systematic review and meta-analysis were performed to assess the accuracy of staging FDG-PET/CT for newly diagnosed NPC. Methods. We searched various biomedical databases and conference proceedings for relevant studies. We determined the pooled sensitivities and specificities, diagnostic odds ratios (DOR) and constructed summary receiver operating characteristic (SROC) curves using the hierarchical regression model. Results. 15 relevant studies including 851 patients were identified. Five addressed primary tumor (T), nine addressed regional lymph nodes (N) and seven addressed distant metastasis (M). The combined sensitivity estimate for FDG-PET/CT in T classification was 0.77 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.59-0.95). For N classification, combined sensitivity was 0.84 (95% CI 0.76-0.91), specificity was 0.90 (95% CI 0.83-0.97), DOR was 82.4 (23.2-292.6) and Q*-index was 0.90. For M classification, the combined sensitivity estimate was 0.87 (95% CI 0.74-1.00), specificity was 0.98 (95% CI 0.96-1.00), DOR was 120.9 (43.0-340.0) and Q*-index was 0.89. Conclusion. FDG-PET/CT showed good accuracy in N and M but not T classification for newly diagnosed NPC. FDG-PET/CT, together with Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the nasopharynx, should be part of the routine staging investigations
Value of Provoked or Spontaneous Flank Pain in Men with Febrile Urinary Tract Infections
Authors: Bruyère Franck , Ruimy Joseph-Alain , Bernard Louis , Elfassi Raphael , Boyer Olivier , Amann Fabrice , Meria Paul
Published: April 2014

Background: Our objective was to identify the clinical, laboratory and radiological characteristics of febrile urinary tract infections (UTI) in men and to focus on the value of flank pain in these men managed in an ambulatory care system. Methods: A network was designed to manage men with febrile UTI without hospitalization according to an algorithm designed with different specialists. The patients’ characteristics were prospectively recorded and each patient was followed up until completely cured. We artificially divided patients into two groups. Group 1: men without flank pain diagnosed as prostatitis and a second group (Group 2) of men with flank pain or provoked flank pain more likely to have a pyelonephritis. Groups were compared to find arguments to differentiate prostatitis to pyelonephritis. Results: 350 men were included in the study, half of these men reported urinary symptoms (dysuria, urgency and burning urination). The negative predictive values of the nitrite and leukocytes test were poor alone or in combination. The renal ultrasound was never informative. None of the patients failed to respond to the treatment. No difference was found between groups. Conclusions: Laboratory test results and radiological features had a poor predictive value. Men with suspected pyelonephritis did not evolve differently from those with suspected prostatitis. Monitoring and treatment of men with febrile UTI does not seem to depend on the existence of a pyelonephritis suspected after the presence of a lumbar pain. Ambulatory management of febrile UTI is feasible and safe, requiring an efficient network for patient’s surveillance.
Access to Parks for Youth as an Environmental Justice Issue: Access Inequalities and Possible Solutions
Authors: Rigolon Alessandro , Flohr Travis
Published: April 2014

Although repeated contact with nature helps foster mental and physical health among young people, their contact with nature has been diminishing over the last few decades. Also, low-income and ethnic minority children have even less contact with nature than white middle-income children. In this study, we compared accessibility to play in parks for young people from different income and racial backgrounds in Denver, Colorado. Park access for children and youth was measured using a geographic information system (GIS). Each neighborhood was classified according to income level, residential density, and distance from downtown; and then each park was classified based on formal and informal play, and level of intimacy. Comparisons between neighborhoods show that that low-income neighborhoods have the lowest access and high-income neighborhoods have the highest access to parks, and that differences are even higher for parks with play amenities and high levels of intimacy. To overcome this issue, the paper proposes a framework for action to improve access to parks for low-income children and youth and to help planners, decision makers and advocacy groups prioritize park investments.
Cross Layer Interference Management in Wireless Biomedical Networks
Authors: Spanakis Emmanouil , Sakkalis Vangelis , Marias Kostas , Traganitis Apostolos
Published: April 2014

Interference, in wireless networks, is a central phenomenon when multiple uncoordinated links share a common communication medium. The study of the interference channel was initiated by Shannon in 1961 and since then this problem has been thoroughly elaborated at the Information theoretic level but its characterization still remains an open issue. When multiple uncoordinated links share a common medium the effect of interference is a crucial limiting factor for network performance. In this work, using cross layer cooperative communication techniques, we study how to compensate interference in the context of wireless biomedical networks, where many links transferring biomedical or other health related data may be formed and suffer from all other interfering transmissions, to allow successful receptions and improve the overall network performance. We define the interference limited communication range to be the critical communication region around a receiver, with a number of surrounding interfering nodes, within which a successful communication link can be formed. Our results indicate that we can achieve more successful transmissions by adapting the transmission rate and power, to the path loss exponent, and the selected mode of the underline communication technique allowing interference mitigation and when possible lower power consumption and increase achievable transmission rates.
Ultra-High Sensitive Strain Sensor Based on Post-Processed Optical Fiber Bragg Grating
Authors: Ferreira Marta , Bierlich Jörg , Becker Martin , Schuster Kay , Santos José , Frazão Orlando
Published: April 2014

An ultra-high sensitive strain sensor is proposed. The sensing head, based on the post-processing of a fiber Bragg grating, is used to perform passive and active strain measurements. Both wavelength and full width half maximum dependences with the applied strain are studied for the passive sensor, where maximum sensitivities of 104.1 pm/µε and 61.6 pm/µε are respectively obtained. When combining the high performance of this sensor with a ring laser cavity configuration, the Bragg grating will act as a filter and high resolution measurements can be performed. With the proposed sensor, a resolution of 700 nε is achieved.
Sequential Rationality in Continuous No-Limit Poker
Authors: Norman Thomas
Published: April 2014

Newman’s (1959, Operations Research, 7, 557–560) solution for a variant of poker with continuous hand spaces and an unlimited bet size is modified to incorporate sequential rationality.
Metrics, Dose, and Dose Concept: The Need for a Proper Dose Concept in the Risk Assessment of Nanoparticles
Authors: Simkó Myrtill , Nosske Dietmar , Kreyling Wolfgang
Published: April 2014

In order to calculate the dose for nanoparticles (NP), (i) relevant information about the dose metrics and (ii) a proper dose concept are crucial. Since the appropriate metrics for NP toxicity are yet to be elaborated, a general dose calculation model for nanomaterials is not available. Here we propose how to develop a dose assessment model for NP in analogy to the radiation protection dose calculation, introducing the so-called “deposited and the equivalent dose”. As a dose metric we propose the total deposited NP surface area (SA), which has been shown frequently to determine toxicological responses e.g. of lung tissue. The deposited NP dose is proportional to the total surface area of deposited NP per tissue mass, and takes into account primary and agglomerated NP. By using several weighting factors the equivalent dose additionally takes into account various physico-chemical properties of the NP which are influencing the biological responses. These weighting factors consider the specific surface area, the surface textures, the zeta-potential as a measure for surface charge, the particle morphology such as the shape and the length-to-diameter ratio (aspect ratio), the band gap energy levels of metal and metal oxide NP, and the particle dissolution rate. Furthermore, we discuss how these weighting factors influence the equivalent dose of the deposited NP.
Food Safety and Bioavailability Evaluations of Four Vegetables Grown in the Highly Arsenic-Contaminated Soils on the Guandu Plain of Northern Taiwan
Authors: Su Shaw-Wei , Tsui Chun-Chih , Lai Hung-Yu , Chen Zueng-Sang
Published: April 2014

Arsenic contamination in a large area of agricultural fields on the Guandu Plain of northern Taiwan was confirmed in a survey conducted in 2006, but research concerning the relationship between bioavailable As concentrations in contaminated soils and crop production in Taiwan is not available. Pot experiments were conducted to examine the growth and accumulation of As in four vegetable crops grown in As-contaminated soils and to assess As intake through consumption. The phytotoxic effects of As in soils were not shown in the pot experiments in which vegetable crops were grown in soils contaminated with different As levels in situ collected from Guandu Plain (120–460 mg/kg) or artificially spiked As-contaminated soils (50–170 mg/kg). Experimental results showed that the bioavailable As extracted with 0.5M NaHCO3 from soils can be used to estimate As concentrations in vegetables. The As concentrations in the vegetables were compared with data shown in the literature and As limits calculated from drinking water standards and the provisional tolerance weekly intake (PTWI) of inorganic As established by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations/World Health Organization (FAO/WHO). Although the As levels in the vegetables were not high and the bioavailability of As in the soils was quite low, long-term consumption may result in higher As intake in the human body.
NKT Cell Responses to B Cell Lymphoma
Authors: Li Junxin , Sun Wenji , Subrahmanyam Priyanka , Page Carly , Younger Kenisha , Tiper Irina , Frieman Matthew , Kimball Amy , Webb Tonya
Published: April 2014

Natural killer T (NKT) cells are a unique subset of CD1d-restricted T lymphocytes that express characteristics of both T cells and natural killer cells. NKT cells mediate tumor immune-surveillance; however, NKT cells are numerically reduced and functionally impaired in lymphoma patients. Many hematologic malignancies express CD1d molecules and co-stimulatory proteins needed to induce anti-tumor immunity by NKT cells, yet most tumors are poorly immunogenic. In this study, we sought to investigate NKT cell responses to B cell lymphoma. In the presence of exogenous antigen, both mouse and human NKT cell lines produce cytokines following stimulation by B cell lymphoma lines. NKT cell populations were examined ex vivo in mouse models of spontaneous B cell lymphoma, and it was found that during early stages, NKT cell responses were enhanced in lymphoma-bearing animals compared to disease-free animals. In contrast, in lymphoma-bearing animals with splenomegaly and lymphadenopathy, NKT cells were functionally impaired. In a mouse model of blastoid variant mantle cell lymphoma, treatment of tumor-bearing mice with a potent NKT cell agonist, α-galactosylceramide (α-GalCer), resulted in a significant decrease in disease pathology. Ex vivo studies demonstrated that NKT cells from α-GalCer treated mice produced IFN-γ following α-GalCer restimulation, unlike NKT cells from vehicle-control treated mice. These data demonstrate an important role for NKT cells in the immune response to an aggressive hematologic malignancy like mantle cell lymphoma.
Recent Developments in Microbiological Approaches for Securing Mine Wastes and for Recovering Metals from Mine Waters
Authors: Johnson D.
Published: April 2014

Mining of metals and coals generates solid and liquid wastes that are potentially hazardous to the environment. Traditional methods to reduce the production of pollutants from mining and to treat impacted water courses are mostly physico-chemical in nature, though passive remediation of mine waters utilizes reactions that are catalysed by microorganisms. This paper reviews recent advances in biotechnologies that have been proposed both to secure reactive mine tailings and to remediate mine waters. Empirical management of tailings ponds to promote the growth of micro-algae that sustain populations of bacteria that essentially reverse the processes involved in the formation of acid mine drainage has been proposed. Elsewhere, targeted biomineralization has been demonstrated to produce solid products that allow metals present in mine waters to be recovered and recycled, rather than to be disposed of in landfill.
Nitrates and Glucosinolates as Strong Determinants of the Nutritional Quality in Rocket Leafy Salads
Authors: Cavaiuolo Marina , Ferrante Antonio
Published: April 2014

Rocket is an important leafy vegetable crop and a good source of antioxidants and anticancer molecules such as glucosinolates and other sulfur compounds. Rocket is also a hyper-accumulator of nitrates which have been considered for long time the main factors that cause gastro-intestinal cancer. In this review, the content of these compounds in rocket tissues and their levels at harvest and during storage are discussed. Moreover, the effect of these compounds in preventing or inducing human diseases is also highlighted. This review provides an update to all the most recent studies carried out on rocket encouraging the consumption of this leafy vegetable to reduce the risk of contracting cancer and other cardiovascular diseases.
Dietary Patterns in Children with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
Authors: Woo Hae , Kim Dong , Hong Young-Seoub , Kim Yu-Mi , Seo Ju-Hee , Choe Byeong , Park Jae , Kang Je-Wook , Yoo Jae-Ho , Chueh Hee , Lee Jung , Kwak Min , Kim Jeongseon
Published: April 2014

The role of diet in the behavior of children has been controversial, but the association of several nutritional factors with childhood behavioral disorders has been continually suggested. We conducted a case-control study to identify dietary patterns associated with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The study included 192 elementary school students aged seven to 12 years. Three non-consecutive 24-h recall (HR) interviews were employed to assess dietary intake, and 32 predefined food groups were considered in a principal components analysis (PCA). PCA identified four major dietary patterns: the “traditional” pattern, the “seaweed-egg” pattern, the “traditional-healthy” pattern, and the “snack” pattern. The traditional-healthy pattern is characterized by a diet low in fat and high in carbohydrates as well as high intakes of fatty acids and minerals. The multivariate-adjusted odds ratio (OR) of ADHD for the highest tertile of the traditional-healthy pattern in comparison with the lowest tertile was 0.31 (95% CI: 0.12–0.79). The score of the snack pattern was positively associated with the risk of ADHD, but a significant association was observed only in the second tertile. A significant association between ADHD and the dietary pattern score was not found for the other two dietary patterns. In conclusion, the traditional-healthy dietary pattern was associated with lower odds having ADHD.
Religion and Family Life: An Overview of Current Research and Suggestions for Future Research
Authors: Vermeer Paul
Published: April 2014

The primary aim of this paper is to offer an overview of current research into the relationship between religion and family life and to offer suggestions for future research. In order to do this, the paper distinguishes between research in which religion is a dependent variable, labelled as socialization research, and research in which religion is an independent variable, referred to as research into family functioning. With regard to these areas of research, the paper, first, offers an overview of the most important insights existing research has generated thus far, after which some important shortcomings are identified and suggestions for future research are proposed. Subsequently, the paper offers some reflections on methodology and points out some strengths and weaknesses of existing research and offers methodological advice for future research. The paper closes by discussing how research into the relationship between religion and family life may contribute to an overall understanding of religion as such.
Recent Trends in Lower-Limb Robotic Rehabilitation Orthosis: Control Scheme and Strategy for Pneumatic Muscle Actuated Gait Trainers
Authors: Dzahir Mohd , Yamamoto Shin-ichiroh
Published: April 2014

It is a general assumption that pneumatic muscle-type actuators will play an important role in the development of an assistive rehabilitation robotics system. In the last decade, the development of a pneumatic muscle actuated lower-limb leg orthosis has been rather slow compared to other types of actuated leg orthoses that use AC motors, DC motors, pneumatic cylinders, linear actuators, series elastic actuators (SEA) and brushless servomotors. However, recent years have shown that the interest in this field has grown exponentially, mainly due to the demand for a more compliant and interactive human-robotics system. This paper presents a survey of existing lower-limb leg orthoses for rehabilitation, which implement pneumatic muscle-type actuators, such as McKibben artificial muscles, rubbertuators, air muscles, pneumatic artificial muscles (PAM) or pneumatic muscle actuators (PMA). It reviews all the currently existing lower-limb rehabilitation orthosis systems in terms of comparison and evaluation of the design, as well as the control scheme and strategy, with the aim of clarifying the current and on-going research in the lower-limb robotic rehabilitation field.
Quorum Sensing Activity of Hafnia alvei Isolated from Packed Food
Authors: Tan Jia-Yi , Yin Wai-Fong , Chan Kok-Gan
Published: April 2014

Quorum sensing (QS) is a mechanism adopted by bacteria to regulate expression of genes according to population density. N-acylhomoserine lactones (AHLs) are a type of QS signalling molecules commonly found in Gram-negative bacteria which have been reported to play a role in microbial spoilage of foods and pathogenesis. In this study, we isolated an AHL-producing Hafnia alvei strain (FB1) from spherical fish pastes. Analysis via high resolution triple quadrupole liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS) on extracts from the spent supernatant of H. alvei FB1 revealed the existence of two short chain AHLs: N-(3-oxohexanoyl) homoserine lactone (3-oxo-C6-HSL) and N-(3-oxo- octanoyl) homoserine lactone (3-oxo-C8-HSL). To our knowledge, this is the first report of the production of AHLs, especially 3-oxo-C8-HSL, by H. alvei.