bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Congenital Upper Urinary Tract Anomalies in Hypospadias
Authors: Farooq Md. Abdullah Al , Hoque Shafiqul
Published: July 2014

Background: Hypospadias may be associated with other congenital upper urinary tract anomalies. Literature showed various opinions to evaluate or not to evaluate upper urinary tract in hypospadias patient. Frequency of upper urinary tract anomalies also varies. This study was carried out on this background to avoid confusion.Objectives: Morphological evaluation of upper urinary tract to find out the frequency of upper urinary tract anomalies associated with uncomplicated hypospadias patients and give a guideline for investigation of such patients. Methods: This prospective study was designed and accomplished in the Departments of Paediatric Surgery, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka; Dhaka Medical College Hospital (DMCH), Dhaka and Chittagong Medical College Hospital (CMCH), Chittagong; Bangladesh from October 2004 to June 2006. Eighty five (85) patient with hypospadias having neither any congenital anomalies, nor other genital ambiguity, nor any secondary vesicoureteric reflux (VUR) or meatal stenosis were selected for the study. Detailed history and examination were carried out. Upper urinary tract of all patients were evaluated by Ultrasonography (USG), Intravenous Urography (IVU), and Micturating Cystourethrography (MCU).To exclude genital ambiguity in perineal hypospadias, karyotype were done to ascertain male sex. Results were analyzed by SPSS with the help of Chi-square and Z approximation test . Result : Eighty five (85) patients were taken. All patients were evaluated by USG, IVU and MCU to detect congenital upper urinary tract anomalies.Results: Four (4) patients had had upper urinary tract anomalies. One (1) patient found to have left sided pelviureteric junction obstruction (PUJO) while one (1) patient had right sided pelviureteric junction obstruction (PUJO). One (1) patient was found to have left sided pelviureteric duplication and the last patient with left renal agenesis. USG detected three (3) anomalies in 85 patients (3.53%) and IVU detected all four (4) anomalies in 85 patients (4.7%), but no primary reflux was detected by MCU. Overall frequency of upper urinary tract anomalies was 4.7%. Eighty one (81) patients (95.3%) had no anomalies. USG detected 3 (three) anomalies out of 4 (four) patients (75%) & IVU detected all four anomalies (100%). Absence of upper urinary tract anomaly was statistically significant.Conclusion: Frequency of upper urinary tract anomalies are significantly low  (4.7%) in uncomplicated hypospadias. USG can detect 75% congenital upper urinary tract anomalies in hypospadias patients. So USG is good enough and recommended to evaluate upper urinary tract anomalies in uncomplicated hypospadias patients. There is no need to evaluate upper urinary tract by IVU or MCU in such patients, if asymptomatic otherwise.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jpsb.v2i2.19547
Apc-Mutant Kyoto Apc Delta (KAD) Rats Are Susceptible to 4-NQO-Induced Tongue Carcinogenesis
Authors: Tanaka Takuji , Shimizu Masahito , Kochi Takahiro , Shirakami Yohei , Mori Takayuki , Watanabe Naoki , Naiki Takafumi , Moriwaki Hisataka , Yoshimi Kazuto , Serikawa Tadao , Kuramoto Takashi
Published: July 2014

Despite widening interest in the possible association between infection/ inflammation and cancer development, knowledge of this issue in relation to oral cancer remains inadequate. This study aimed to determine the susceptibility of Apc-mutant Kyoto Apc Delta (KAD) rats, which are vulnerable to developing inflammation-associated colorectal carcinogenesis, to 4-nitroquinoline 1-oxide (4-NQO)-induced tongue carcinogenesis in order to clarify the role of inflammation in oral cancer. KAD (20 males and 22 females) and F344/NS1c (22 males and 23 females) rats received drinking water with or without 4-NQO (20 ppm) for eight weeks. Histopathological and immunohistochemical analyses of the tongue were performed at week 20. Additionally, the mRNA expression of inflammatory cytokines in the tongue mucosa was determined at week 8. Tongue squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) developed in the KAD and F344/NS1c rats that received 4-NQO. Regardless of gender, the incidence and multiplicity of tongue SCC were greater in the KAD rats than in the F344/NS1c rats. In addition, the multiplicity of tongue SCC in the female KAD rats was significantly greater than that observed in the male KAD (p < 0.01) and female F344/NS1c rats (p < 0.05). The levels of inflammation and the mRNA expression of inflammatory cytokines in the tongue in the 4-NQO-treated female KAD rats were the highest among the rats given 4-NQO. These results show that KAD rats, particularly females, are susceptible to 4-NQO-induced tongue carcinogenesis, suggesting the utility of models employing KAD rats for investigating the pathobiology of oral (tongue) carcinogenesis associated with inflammation.
Can the Hexagonal Ice-like Model Render the Spectroscopic Fingerprints of Structured Water? Feedback from Quantum-Chemical Computations
Authors: Segarra-Martí Javier , Roca-Sanjuán Daniel , Merchán Manuela
Published: July 2014

The spectroscopic features of the multilayer honeycomb model of structured water are analyzed on theoretical grounds, by using high-level ab initio quantum-chemical methodologies, through model systems built by two fused hexagons of water molecules: the monomeric system [H19O10], in different oxidation states (anionic and neutral species). The findings do not support anionic species as the origin of the spectroscopic fingerprints observed experimentally for structured water. In this context, hexameric anions can just be seen as a source of hydrated hydroxyl anions and cationic species. The results for the neutral dimer are, however, fully consistent with the experimental evidence related to both, absorption and fluorescence spectra. The neutral π-stacked dimer [H38O20] can be assigned as the main responsible for the recorded absorption and fluorescence spectra with computed band maxima at 271 nm (4.58 eV) and 441 nm (2.81 eV), respectively. The important role of triplet excited states is finally discussed. The most intense vertical triplet⇨ triplet transition is predicted to be at 318 nm (3.90 eV).
Prevalence of Overweight/Obesity and Its Associated Factors among University Students from 22 Countries
Authors: Peltzer Karl , Pengpid Supa , Samuels T. , Özcan Neslihan , Mantilla Carolina , Rahamefy Onja , Wong Mee , Gasparishvili Alexander
Published: July 2014

Obesity among young people increases lifetime cardiovascular risk. This study assesses the prevalence of overweight/obesity and its associated factors among a random sample of university students from 22 universities in 22 low, middle income and emerging economy countries. This cross-sectional survey comprised of a self-administered questionnaire and collected anthropometric measurements. The study population was 6773 (43.2%) males and 8913 (56.8%) females, aged 16 to 30 years (mean 20.8 years, SD = 2.6). Body mass index (BMI) was used for weight status. Among men, the prevalence of underweight was 10.8%, normal weight 64.4%, overweight 18.9% and obesity 5.8%, while among women, the prevalence of underweight was 17.6%, normal weight 62.1%, overweight 14.1% and obesity 5.2%. Overall, 22% were overweight or obese (24.7% men and 19.3% women). In multivariate regression among men, younger age, coming from a higher income country, consciously avoiding fat and cholesterol, physically inactivity, current tobacco use and childhood physical abuse, and among women older age, coming from a higher income country, frequent organized religious activity, avoiding fat and cholesterol, posttraumatic stress symptoms and physical childhood abuse were associated overweight or obesity. Several gender specific risk factors identified can be utilized in health promotion programmes.
Epidemiological Evaluation of Notifications of Environmental Events in the State of São Paulo, Brazil
Authors: De Cassia dos Santos Nery Telma , Christensen Rogerio , Pereira Farida , Leite Andre
Published: July 2014

Increasing urbanization across the globe, combined with an increased use of chemicals in various regions, contributes to several environmental events that influence environmental health. Measures that identify environmental factors and events should be introduced to facilitate epidemiological investigations by health services. The Brazilian Ministry of Health published a new list of notifiable diseases on 25 January 2011 and introduced environmental events as a new category of notifiable occurrences. The Center for Epidemiologic Surveillance in State of Sao Paulo, Brazil, created an online notification system that highlights “environmental events”, such as exposure to chemical contaminants, drinking water with contaminants outside of the recommended range, contaminated air, and natural or anthropogenic disasters. This paper analyzed 300 notifications received between May 2011 and May 2012. It reports the number of notifications with event classifications and analyzes the events relating to accidents with chemical substances. This paper describes the characteristics of the accidents that involved chemical substances, methods used, types of substances, exposed population, and measures adopted. The online notification of environmental events increases the analysis of the main events associated with diseases related to environmental chemicals; thus, it facilitates the adoption of public policies to prevent environmental health problems.
A Conceptual List of Indicators for Urban Planning and Management Based on Earth Observation
Authors: Chrysoulakis Nektarios , Feigenwinter Christian , Triantakonstantis Dimitrios , Penyevskiy Igor , Tal Abraham , Parlow Eberhard , Fleishman Guy , Düzgün Sebnem , Esch Thomas , Marconcini Mattia
Published: July 2014

Sustainable development is a key component in urban studies. Earth Observation (EO) can play a valuable role in sustainable urban development and planning, since it represents a powerful data source with the potential to provide a number of relevant urban sustainability indicators. To this end, in this paper we propose a conceptual list of EO-based indicators capable of supporting urban planning and management. Three cities with different typologies, namely Basel, Switzerland; Tel Aviv, Israel; and Tyumen, Russia were selected as case studies. The EO-based indicators are defined to effectively record the physical properties of the urban environment in a diverse range of environmental sectors such as energy efficiency, air pollution and public health, water, transportation and vulnerability to hazards. The results assess the potential of EO to support the development of a set of urban environmental indicators towards sustainable urban planning and management.
Modified Low Density Lipoprotein and Lipoprotein-Containing Circulating Immune Complexes as Diagnostic and Prognostic Biomarkers of Atherosclerosis and Type 1 Diabetes Macrovascular Disease
Authors: Orekhov Alexander , Bobryshev Yuri , Sobenin Igor , Melnichenko Alexandra , Chistiakov Dimitry
Published: July 2014

In atherosclerosis; blood low-density lipoproteins (LDL) are subjected to multiple enzymatic and non-enzymatic modifications that increase their atherogenicity and induce immunogenicity. Modified LDL are capable of inducing vascular inflammation through activation of innate immunity; thus, contributing to the progression of atherogenesis. The immunogenicity of modified LDL results in induction of self-antibodies specific to a certain type of modified LDL. The antibodies react with modified LDL forming circulating immune complexes. Circulating immune complexes exhibit prominent immunomodulatory properties that influence atherosclerotic inflammation. Compared to freely circulating modified LDL; modified LDL associated with the immune complexes have a more robust atherogenic and proinflammatory potential. Various lipid components of the immune complexes may serve not only as diagnostic but also as essential predictive markers of cardiovascular events in atherosclerosis. Accumulating evidence indicates that LDL-containing immune complexes can also serve as biomarker for macrovascular disease in type 1 diabetes.
Coexpression and Secretion of Endoglucanase and Phytase Genes in Lactobacillus reuteri
Authors: Wang Lei , Yang Yuxin , Cai Bei , Cao Pinghua , Yang Mingming , Chen Yulin
Published: July 2014

A multifunctional transgenic Lactobacillus with probiotic characteristics and an ability to degrade β-glucan and phytic acid (phytate) was engineered to improve nutrient utilization, increase production performance and decrease digestive diseases in broiler chickens. The Bacillus subtilis WL001 endoglucanase gene (celW) and Aspergillus fumigatus WL002 phytase gene (phyW) mature peptide (phyWM) were cloned into an expression vector with the lactate dehydrogenase promoter of Lactobacillus casei and the secretion signal peptide of the Lactococcus lactis usp45 gene. This construct was then transformed into Lactobacillus reuteri XC1 that had been isolated from the gastrointestinal tract of broilers. Heterologous enzyme production and feed effectiveness of this genetically modified L. reuteri strain were investigated and evaluated. Sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis analysis showed that the molecular mass of phyWM and celW was approximately 48.2 and 55 kDa, respectively, consistent with their predicted molecular weights. Endoglucanase and phytase activities in the extracellular fraction of the transformed L. reuteri culture were 0.68 and 0.42 U/mL, respectively. Transformed L. reuteri improved the feed conversion ratio of broilers from 21 to 42 days of age and over the whole feeding period. However, there was no effect on body weight gain and feed intake of chicks. Transformed L. reuteri supplementation improved levels of ash, calcium and phosphorus in tibiae at day 21 and of phosphorus at day 42. In addition, populations of Escherichia coli, Veillonella spp. and Bacteroides vulgatus were decreased, while populations of Bifidobacterium genus and Lactobacillus spp. were increased in the cecum at day 21.
Effects of β2-Adrenergic Receptor Gene Polymorphisms on Ritodrine Therapy in Pregnant Women with Preterm Labor: Prospective Follow-Up Study
Authors: Park Jin , Lee Na , Lee Kyung , Park Sunny , Kim Young , Gwak Hye
Published: July 2014

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of β2-adrenergic receptor (ADRB2) gene polymorphisms on ritodrine therapy outcomes in patients with preterm labor. Genotyping analysis of ADRB2 gene (rs1042713, rs1042714, rs1042717, rs1042718, and rs1042719) was performed on 137 patients with preterm labor. Survival analysis was conducted for the effects of SNPs on the median time to delivery as a primary outcome. The median time to delivery in the study patients was 349.3 h. Gestational age at admission and modified Bishop scores revealed significant effects on time to delivery (p < 0.001). Among studied SNPs, rs1042717 and rs1042718 showed linkage disequilibrium in this population, and their effects on time to delivery were marginally significant (p < 0.1). Patients with variant-homozygotes in the rs1042713 showed considerably shortened time to delivery compared to wild-allele carriers. The rs1042719 polymorphism significantly affected time to delivery in both univariate and multivariate analysis; the GC and CC carriers showed 64% decrease in time to delivery compared to the wild-type homozygote carriers. Based on the results, it was concluded that the gene polymorphisms of ADRB2 could affect ritodrine therapy in patients with preterm labor. However, given the single-center and the relatively small sample size, our hypothesis requires further independent validation using multi-center and large sample size.
Rapid Adsorption of Heavy Metals by Fe3O4/Talc Nanocomposite and Optimization Study Using Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Kalantari Katayoon , Ahmad Mansor , Masoumi Hamid , Shameli Kamyar , Basri Mahiran , Khandanlou Roshanak
Published: July 2014

Fe3O4/talc nanocomposite was used for removal of Cu(II), Ni(II), and Pb(II) ions from aqueous solutions. Experiments were designed by response surface methodology (RSM) and a quadratic model was used to predict the variables. The adsorption parameters such as adsorbent dosage, removal time, and initial ion concentration were used as the independent variables and their effects on heavy metal ion removal were investigated. Analysis of variance was incorporated to judge the adequacy of the models. Optimal conditions with initial heavy metal ion concentration of 100, 92 and 270 mg/L, 120 s of removal time and 0.12 g of adsorbent amount resulted in 72.15%, 50.23%, and 91.35% removal efficiency for Cu(II), Ni(II), and Pb(II), respectively. The predictions of the model were in good agreement with experimental results and the Fe3O4/talc nanocomposite was successfully used to remove heavy metals from aqueous solutions.
Top-Down Causation and the Rise of Information in the Emergence of Life
Authors: Walker Sara
Published: July 2014

Biological systems represent a unique class of physical systems in how they process and manage information. This suggests that changes in the flow and distribution of information played a prominent role in the origin of life. Here I review and expand on an emerging conceptual framework suggesting that the origin of life may be identified as a transition in causal structure and information flow, and detail some of the implications for understanding the early stages chemical evolution.
Tribofilm Formation As a Result of Complex Interaction at the Tool/Chip Interface during Cutting
Authors: Fox-Rabinovich German , Gershman Iosif , Hakim Mohamed , Shalaby Mohamed , Krzanowski James , Veldhuis Stephen
Published: July 2014

Tribofilms are dynamic structures that form at the interface during frictional sliding. These films play a significant role in friction control, particularly under heavy loaded/high temperature conditions, such as those found at the cutting tool/chip interface. The thermodynamic aspects of tribofilm formation are discussed here. Thermodynamic analysis of entropy production during friction shows that there are two types of tribofilms that affect the wear behavior of a cutting tool: (1) tribofilms forming as a result of the surface modification of the cutting tools with further tribo-oxidation; and (2) tribofilms that form as a result of material transfer from the contacting frictional body (the workpiece) during the tool/chip interaction. Experimental examples are presented, outlining the beneficial role of both types of tribofilms.
CO2 Laser Manufacturing of Miniaturised Lenses for Lab-on-a-Chip Systems
Authors: Mohammed Mazher-Iqbal , Desmulliez Marc
Published: July 2014

This article describes the manufacturing and characterisation of plano-convex miniaturised lenses using a CO2 laser engraving process in PMMA substrates. The technique allows for lenses to be fabricated rapidly and in a reproducible manner at depths of over 200 µm and for lens diameters of more than 3 mm. Experimental characterisation of the lens focal lengths shows good correlation with theory. The plano-convex lenses have been successfully embedded into capillary microfluidic systems alongside planar microlenses, allowing for a significant reduction of ancillary optics without a loss of detection sensitivity when performing fluorescence measurements. Such technology provides a significant step forward towards the portability of fluorescence- or luminescence-based systems for biological/chemical analysis.
A New Electrochemical Sensor Based on Task-Specific Ionic Liquids-Modified Palm Shell Activated Carbon for the Determination of Mercury in Water Samples
Authors: Ismaiel Ahmed , Aroua Mohamed , Yusoff Rozita
Published: July 2014

In this study, a potentiometric sensor composed of palm shell activated carbon modified with trioctylmethylammonium thiosalicylate (TOMATS) was used for the potentiometric determination of mercury ions in water samples. The proposed potentiometric sensor has good operating characteristics towards Hg (II), including a relatively high selectivity; a Nernstian response to Hg (II) ions in a concentration range of 1.0 × 10−9 to 1.0 × 10−2 M, with a detection limit of 1 × 10−10 M and a slope of 44.08 ± 1.0 mV/decade; and a fast response time (~5 s). No significant changes in electrode potential were observed when the pH was varied over the range of 3–9. Additionally, the proposed electrode was characterized by good selectivity towards Hg (II) and no significant interferences from other cationic or anionic species.
Distributed Power-Line Outage Detection Based on Wide Area Measurement System
Authors: Zhao Liang , Song Wen-Zhan
Published: July 2014

In modern power grids, the fast and reliable detection of power-line outages is an important functionality, which prevents cascading failures and facilitates an accurate state estimation to monitor the real-time conditions of the grids. However, most of the existing approaches for outage detection suffer from two drawbacks, namely: (i) high computational complexity; and (ii) relying on a centralized means of implementation. The high computational complexity limits the practical usage of outage detection only for the case of single-line or double-line outages. Meanwhile, the centralized means of implementation raises security and privacy issues. Considering these drawbacks, the present paper proposes a distributed framework, which carries out in-network information processing and only shares estimates on boundaries with the neighboring control areas. This novel framework relies on a convex-relaxed formulation of the line outage detection problem and leverages the alternating direction method of multipliers (ADMM) for its distributed solution. The proposed framework invokes a low computational complexity, requiring only linear and simple matrix-vector operations. We also extend this framework to incorporate the sparse property of the measurement matrix and employ the LSQRalgorithm to enable a warm start, which further accelerates the algorithm. Analysis and simulation tests validate the correctness and effectiveness of the proposed approaches.
Influence of the Thermal Inertia in the European Simplified Procedures for the Assessment of Buildings’ Energy Performance
Authors: Evangelisti Luca , Battista Gabriele , Guattari Claudia , Basilicata Carmine , De Lieto Vollaro Roberto
Published: July 2014

This study aims to highlight the importance of thermal inertia in buildings. Nowadays, it is possible to use energy analysis software to simulate the building energy performance. Considering Italian standards, these analyses are based on the UNI TS 11300 that defines the procedures for the national implementation of the UNI EN ISO 13790. These standards require an energy analysis under steady-state condition, underestimating the thermal inertia of the building. In order to understand the inertial behavior of walls, a cubic Test-Cell was modelled through the dynamic calculation code TRNSYS and three different wall types were tested. Different stratigraphies, characterized by the same thermal transmittance value, composed by massive elements and insulating layers in different order, were simulated. Through TRNSYS, it was possible to define maximum surface temperatures and to calculate thermal lag between maximum values, both external and internal. Moreover, the attenuation between external surface temperatures and internal ones during summer (July) was calculated. Finally, the comparison between Test-Cell’s annual energy demands, performed by using a commercial code based on the Italian standard UNITS 11300 and the dynamic code, TRNSYS, was carried out.
La mejor estrategia para la jubilación de los autónomos
Authors: Devesa Carpio Enrique , Devesa Carpio Mar , Domínguez Fabián Inmaculada , Encinas Goenechea Borja , Meneu Gaya Robert , Nagore García Amparo
Published: July 2014

Retirement is one of the challenges faced by citizens and, of course, also faced by the self-employed workers. The peculiarities of these workers and their special social security system, such as choosing an annual contribution base, allow them to choose the best strategy to improve significantly their own retirement pensions. This paper shows that this flexibility makes the Social Security retirement pension in one of the most profitable investments. Afterwards we will show the winning strategy to get the best retirement pension, with a minimum cost. Alternatively, this flexibility can be seen as a way to identify the policy measures that would have to be modified to improve the fairness of the Social Security system.
Use of polar and nonpolar fractions as additional information sources for studying thermoxidized virgin olive oils by FTIR
Authors: Tena N. , Aparicio-Ruiz R. , García-González D. L.
Published: July 2014

Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy has been proposed to study the degradation of virgin olive oils (VOO) in samples undergoing thermoxidation. The polar and nonpolar fractions of oxidized oils have been analyzed by FTIR to provide further information on the minor spectral changes taking place during thermoxidation. This information assists in the interpretation of the spectra of the samples. For this purpose polar and nonpolar fractions of 47 VOO samples thermoxidized (190 °C) in a fryer were analyzed by FTIR. The time-course change of the band area assigned to single cis double bonds was explained by their correlation with the decrease in oleic acid (adjusted-R2=0.93). The bands assigned to the hydroxyl groups and the first overtone of ester groups was better studied in the spectra collected for the polar and nonpolar fractions, respectively. The bands assigned to peroxide, epoxy, tertiary alcohols and fatty acids were clearly observed in the spectra of the polar fraction while they are not noticeable in the spectra of the oils.
Kinetic parameter determination of roasted and unroasted argan oil oxidation under Rancimat test conditions
Authors: Zaanoun I. , Gharby S. , Bakass I. , Ait addi E. , Ait ichou I.
Published: July 2014

The present study investigated the Kinetic parameter determination of edible argan oil (coldpressed from roasted argan kernels) and cosmetic argan oil (cold-pressed from unroasted argan kernels) under the Rancimat test conditions. The physicochemical parameters of edible and cosmetic argan oil immediately after preparation and after accelerated oxidation test Rancimat at different temperatures 90 °C, 100 °C, 110 °C, 120 °C, 130 °C and 140 °C were determined and compared. The natural logarithms of the kinetic rate constant (kvalue) varied linearly with respect to temperature. An increasing rate of oxidation could be observed as temperature increased. On the basis of the Arrhenius equation and the activated complex theory, frequency factors A, activation energies Ea, Q10 numbers, activation enthalpies ΔH, and activation entropies ΔS for oxidative stability of the vegetable oils were calculated. The accelerated oxidation and Kinetic parameters have shown that edible argan oil can be stored much better than cosmetic oil.
Two new species ofEpipocus(Coleoptera: Endomychidae) from Mexico and Costa Rica, with a discussion on species groups inEpipocus
Authors: Arriaga-Varela Emmanuel , Tomaszewska Wioletta , Shockley Floyd W.
Published: July 2014

Two new species ofEpipocusGermar (Coleoptera: Endomychidae) are described:Epipocus olmecusnew speciesfrom Veracruz, Mexico, andE. costatusnew speciesfrom Puntarenas, Costa Rica. The species groups ofEpipocusproposed by Strohecker are discussed and a modified key to theE.rufitarsisgroup accommodating these two new species is provided.
Seasonal variation of aerosol water uptake and its impact on the direct radiative effect at Ny-Ålesund, Svalbard
Authors: Rastak N. , Silvergren S. , Zieger P. , Wideqvist U. , Ström J. , Svenningsson B. , Maturilli M. , Tesche M. , Ekman A. M. L. , Tunved P. , Riipinen I.
Published: July 2014

Abstract. In this study we investigated the impact of water uptake by aerosol particles in ambient atmosphere on their optical properties and their direct radiative effect (ADRE, W m−2) in the Arctic at Ny-Ålesund, Svalbard, during 2008. To achieve this, we combined three models, a hygroscopic growth model, a Mie model and a radiative transfer model, with an extensive set of observational data. We found that the seasonal variation of dry aerosol scattering coefficients showed minimum values during the summer season and the beginning of fall (July-August-September), when small particles (< 100 nm in diameter) dominate the aerosol number size distribution. The maximum scattering by dry particles was observed during the Arctic haze period (March-April-May) when the average size of the particles was larger. Considering the hygroscopic growth of aerosol particles in the ambient atmosphere had a significant impact on the aerosol scattering coefficients: the aerosol scattering coefficients were enhanced by on average a factor of 4.30 ± 2.26 (mean ± standard deviation), with lower values during the haze period (March-April-May) as compared to summer and fall. Hygroscopic growth of aerosol particles was found to cause 1.6 to 3.7 times more negative ADRE at the surface, with the smallest effect during the haze period (March-April-May) and the highest during late summer and beginning of fall (July-August-September).
The influence of the geomorphological and sedimentological settings on the distribution of epibenthic assemblages on a flat topped hill on the over-deepened shelf of the western Weddell Sea (Southern Ocean)
Authors: Dorschel B. , Gutt J. , Piepenburg D. , Schröder M. , Arndt J. E.
Published: July 2014

Abstract. Epibenthos communities play an important role in the marine ecosystems of the Weddell Sea. Information on the factors controlling their structure and distribution are, however, still rare. In particular, the interactions between environmental factors and biotic assemblages are not fully understood. Nachtigaller Hill, a newly discovered seabed structure on the over-deepened shelf of the northwest Weddell Sea (Southern Ocean), offers a unique site to study these interactions in a high-latitude Antarctic setting. Based on high-resolution bathymetry and georeferenced biological data, the effect of the terrain and related environmental parameters on the epibenthos was assessed. At Nachtigaller Hill, both geomorphological and biological data showed complex distribution patterns, reflecting local processes such as iceberg scouring and locally amplified bottom currents. This variability was also generally reflected in the variable epibenthos distribution patterns although statistical analyses did not show strong correlations between the selected environmental parameters and species abundances. By analysing the interactions between environmental and biological patterns, this study provides crucial information towards a better understanding of the factors and processes that drive epibenthos communities on the shelves of the Weddell Sea and probably also on other Antarctic shelves.
Relationship between the Nursing Workload and the Severity of the Patient's Condition in Adult Intensive Care Units
Authors: Romero-Massa Elizabeth , Lorduy-Bolívar Johana Patricia , Pájaro-Melgar Carmen , Pérez-Duque Carolina Andrea ,   Universidad de Cartagena
Published: July 2014

Objetivo: determinar la relación entre la demanda de carga laboral de enfermería y la gravedad del paciente en unidades de cuidados intensivos de adultos en la ciudad de Cartagena, en el mes de julio de 2008. Método: investigación de corte longitudinal. Muestra de 42 pacientes, se obtuvieron registros TISS-28 y registros Apache II. Se realizó el cálculo de media aritmética, desviación estándar y proporciones, así como el cálculo del coeficiente de correlación de Pearson. Resultados: participaron 42 pacientes; la media para la edad fue 58,2 años (IC 95% 52,1-64,4). El 51,3% fueron mujeres. Se obtuvieron 42 calificaciones del Apache II al ingreso de los pacientes a la UCI con un promedio de 28,9, de los cuales el 66,7% (28) tienen un mal pronóstico, y 188 calificaciones de TISS-28, con un promedio de 28,7 (IC 95% 25,7-31,7). El promedio de TISS de egreso fue de 25,7 (IC 95% 22,4-28,9) por paciente. El 61,9% de los pacientes perteneció a la clase III. La razón enfermera/paciente clase IV fue de 0,57 inferior a 1:1(1). Se encontró una asociación entre el Apache II y TISS-28 de 0,55 (0,501-0,75) y un coeficiente de determinación de 0,38 (p<0,05). Conclusiones: existe una moderada correlación entre el TISS-28 y el Apache II dejando ver sobrecarga de trabajo de enfermería en las UCI, lo que repercute en la atención directa al paciente crítico.
Cultural Diversity of Afro-Colombian Traditional Healers: Preservation and Conciliation of Knowledge
Authors: López Lucero , Cataño Nhora , López Heddy , Velásquez Vilma ,   Universidad Nacional de Colombia
Published: July 2014

La diversidad afrocolombiana entreteje prácticas culturales en salud específicas. Los sanadores tradicionales son poseedores de una costumbre milenaria en el cuidado de la salud. Gozan del reconocimiento, la confianza y el respeto de sus comunidades, pero son desconocidos o ignorados en las instituciones de salud y en el mundo profesional. Objetivo: describir las prácticas de cuidado realizadas por los sanadores tradicionales (remedieros y parteras) en una comunidad afrocolombiana en Guapi, Cauca, Colombia. Método: el estudio etnográfico utiliza observación participante y entrevistas en profundidad con tres remedieros y tres parteras. El análisis se realizó de forma inductiva e interpretativa. Resultados: los hallazgos evidencian diversos métodos de curación relacionados con el uso de hierbas, maniobras, fórmulas especiales y rezos, entre otros. Esta diversidad de métodos implica que las personas sean vistas de manera holística adoptándose diferentes maneras de sanar y cuidar la salud. Conclusiones: la importancia de conocer y preservar estos conocimientos es una forma de expresar el compromiso por proteger, rescatar y favorecer el diálogo entre los saberes profesional y popular. Es una invitación a conocer y reconocer el papel que pueden jugar los sanadores tradicionales en los sistemas de salud.
Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials Comparing Latanoprost with Other Glaucoma Medications in Chronic Angle-Closure Glaucoma
Authors: Li Jingjing , Lin Xiaoti , Yu Minbin
Published: July 2014

Purpose

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of latanoprost compared with other glaucoma medications in the treatment of chronic angle-closure glaucoma (CACG) and to provide the basis for clinical medication.

Methods

Major literature databases were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCT) involving latanoprost among patients with CACG. Primary outcome measures were absolute changes in intraocular pressure (IOP) and incidence of ocular adverse events. Statistical analyses included the calculation of standardized mean difference (SMD) and relative risk (RR). The statistical analysis was performed using STATA version 12.0 software.

Results

Ten RCT involving 1096 patients were included in this meta-analysis. Analysis showed that latanoprost was not significantly different from other glaucoma medications in reducing IOP (SMD = 0.29, 95% confidence interval [CI] −0.02 to 0.59, p=0.069). Further subgroup analysis revealed that latanoprost was superior compared with timolol (SMD = 0.64, 95% CI 0.46 to 0.82, p<0.001) and marginally inferior to travoprost and bimatoprost (SMD = −0.19, 95% CI −0.35 to −0.02, p = 0.026). As for conjunctival hyperemia, latanoprost caused a higher proportion than timolol (RR = 2.36, 95% CI 1.27 to 4.37, p = 0.007). However, latanoprost was associated with lower incidence of conjunctival hyperemia (RR = 0.42, 95% CI 0.30 to 0.59, p<0.001), and with fewer occurrence of other ocular side effects (excluding conjunctival hyperemia) than travoprost and bimatoprost (RR = 0.61, 95% CI 0.48 to 0.78, p<0.001).

Conclusions

Travoprost and bimatoprost are superior in IOP control than latanoprost, but latanoprost is better tolerated in patients with CACG.
Vascular Comorbidity in Patients with Low-Tension Glaucoma
Authors: Tarkkanen Ahti H.A. , Kivelä Tero T.
Published: July 2014

Purpose

To report vascular comorbidities, arterial hypertension (HT), ischemic heart disease (IHD), and diabetes mellitus (DM) in patients with low-tension glaucoma (LTG) with maximum intraocular pressure (IOP) of 18 mm Hg or less. Uniform criteria for glaucoma and the comorbidities were applied.

Methods

We reviewed records of 519 consecutive patients to whom the Finnish National Social Insurance Institution (FSII) had granted cost-free medication for the treatment of glaucoma. The FSII operates national health insurance, which is compulsory for all Finnish citizens. There were 344 patients with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) and 155 with exfoliative glaucoma (EG). Twenty cases were discarded for having other types of glaucoma. In the POAG group, there were 38 patients, with a median IOP of 16 mm Hg (range 12–18). We were masked to the systemic comorbidities when the registry provided us data on those to whom FSII had also granted cost-free medication for HT, IHD, or DM according to the uniform national criteria.

Results

None of the patients with LTG had exfoliation syndrome. There was a female predominance, 81%, compared to 68% in high-tension POAG. Hypertension had been diagnosed in 34%, which is the same as in high-tension POAG. A total of 24% had IHD, which is the same as in the Finnish population registry. Diabetes mellitus was present in only 5%. In all groups, patients with LTG with systemic comorbidity were markedly older than those without.

Conclusions

In patients with LTG with median IOP 16 mm Hg (range 12–18), glaucomatous optic disc cupping and glaucomatous visual field defects probably developed independently of the systemic vascular comorbidity. However, the diagnostic criteria for HT, IHD, and DM used in the current study were based on the severity of stages set in the FSII system.
Stem compatibility for cement-in-cement femoral revision: an in vitro study
Authors: Berstock James R. , Torrie Peter A.G. , Smith James R.A. , Webb Jason C. , Baker Richard P.
Published: July 2014

Cement-in-cement femoral component revision is a useful and commonly practised technique. Onerous and hazardous re-shaping of the original cement mantle is required if the new stem does not seat easily. Furthermore, without removing the entirety of the original cement mantle, the freedom to alter anteversion or leg length is difficult to predict preoperatively. We present data from in vitro experiments testing the compatibility of the top cemented stems according to UK registry figures (NJR 2013). This data augments preoperative planning by indicating which revision stems require minimal or no cement reshaping when being inserted into another stem's mantle. We also present the maximum shortening and anteversion that can be achieved without reshaping the original cement mantle.
Hip arthroscopy for femoroacetabular impingement: a health economic analysis
Authors: Clement Nicholas D. , MacDonald Deborah , Gaston Paul
Published: July 2014

There has been a significant increase in use of hip arthroscopy for femoroacetabular impingement over the last 10 years. However, some care providers in the United Kingdom are not commissioning such an intervention due to cost constraints and lack of published cost effectiveness studies. A cost analysis for a prospective cohort of 58 patients undergoing hip arthroscopy for femoroacetabular impingement was performed. The short form 12 six dimension health utility score (SF12-6D) was used. This was recorded preoperatively and one year after surgery. Three time points (one, two, and 10 years) from operation were used to calculate the quality-adjusted-life-years (QALYs) gained. Predicted need for conversion to total hip replacement and diminishing gain with time (5% per year) was incorporated into the two- and 10-year models. The Scottish Tariff was used to assign the cost of surgery. The number of QALYs gained one year after surgery was 0.159, which equated to a cost per QALY of £19,335. This cost decreased to £10,118 per QALY gained at two years, and further still to £2,677 per QALY gained at 10 years. Multivariable regression analysis found that a worse preoperative SF12-6D was an independent predictor of greater QALYs gained one year after surgery (R2 = 0.51, p<0.001). At no point in time, from one year onwards, does hip arthroscopy for femoroacetabular impingement cost more than £20,000 per QALY, making it a cost-effective intervention according to the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence.
HeartWare LVAD Implantation in a Patient with a Rare ARVD: Carvajal Syndrome
Authors: Bottio Tomaso , Bejko Jonida , Tarzia Vincenzo , Gerosa Gino
Published: July 2014

Carvajal syndrome is a variant of Naxos disease characterized by a predominant left ventricular involvement, wooly or curly hair, and palmoplantar keratoderma or similar skin disorders. We describe the clinical and therapeutic course of a 14-year old boy affected by this syndrome, in whom a progressive biventricular failure developed at 13 years of age. The patient was hospitalized in the pediatric department 3 months earlier after the onset of cardiac arrhythmias and he critically worsened with signs and symptoms of biventricular cardiac failure. Over massive inotropic agent infusion, the patient was transferred to our intensive-care-unit in order to be haemodinamically stabilized with a ventricular assist device (VAD) and thereafter transplanted.
Percutaneous Transluminal Angioplasty for Central Venous Disease in Dialysis Patients: Influence on Cardiac Function
Authors: Banshodani Masataka , Kawanishi Hideki , Shintaku Sadanori , Moriishi Misaki , Yamashita Tetsumasa , Ago Rika , Sato Tomoyasu , Tsuchiya Shinichiro
Published: July 2014

Purpose

Increased vascular access flow after percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) for central venous stenosis and occlusion (central venous disease, CVD) can affect cardiac function in hemodialysis (HD) patients. We evaluated the cardiac function, etiology, and treatment in HD patients with CVD.

Methods

HD patients with CVD treated by PTA between June 2006 and February 2013 were studied.

Results

Of the 26 patients, 22 had left arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs), 1 left arteriovenous graft (AVG), 2 right AVFs, and 1 right AVG. CVD sites were the left brachiocephalic vein (LBCV; n=13), left subclavian vein (LSCV; n=7), both LBCV and LSCV (n=3), right BCV (n=2), and right SCV (n=1). Computed tomography findings indicated a high extrinsic compression rate for the LBCV (91%) and LSCV (50%). The success rate of PTA was 96%. The primary patency rates at 3, 6, 9, and 12 months were 81%, 73%, 65%, and 57%, respectively. The post-PTA brachial artery flow volume was significantly increased compared with the pre-PTA volume (1306 vs. 957 ml/min; p=0.005). The post-PTA left ventricular ejection fraction and expiration inferior vena cava diameter were the same as the pre-PTA values (57% versus 60%, p=0.2 and 17 versus 17 mm, p=0.9, respectively).

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that increased vascular access flow after PTA for CVD has no relation to cardiac function.
The Eternal Tale of Dialysis Access Vessels and Restenosis: Are Drug-Eluting Balloons the Solution?
Authors: Portugaller Rupert H. , Kalmar Peter I. , Deutschmann Hannes
Published: July 2014

In dialysis access fistulas and grafts, percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) is frequently followed by restenosis development, which results in repeated periodical re-interventions. The technique of drug-eluting balloon (DEB) angioplasty has shown promising results in the treatment of femoropopliteal arteriosclerotic lesions. In contrast to arteriosclerotic arteries, dialysis access vessels host unfavorable hemodynamics due to the direct conduction of high-pressure fluid into a low-pressure system. Hence, the beneficial effect of DEB angioplasty may be limited in this system. However, a first prospective randomized trial on 40 patients with arteriovenous fistula or graft stenoses exhibited a significantly higher 6-month primary patency of the treated lesions after DEB angioplasty than after uncoated balloon angioplasty. Despite such a positive reference, general recommendations regarding the value of DEBs in dialysis access vessels cannot be considered as serious unless large randomized controlled trials have been performed.
O oceano Ártico: oportunidades da nova fronteira marítima
Authors: Silva Marcos Valle Machado da
Published: July 2014

As mudanças climáticas decorrentes do aquecimento global não terão apenas efeitos negativos. No caso do comércio marítimo, o risco oriundo do aumento da temperatura média do planeta apresenta algumas oportunidades que já começam a ser analisadas por vários Estados. Uma dessas oportunidades diz respeito à potencial utilização de rotas marítimas, através do Ártico, ligando os oceanos Pacífico e Atlântico. O objetivo deste artigo é analisar quais as implicações para o comércio marítimo, decorrentes da redução da camada de gelo no oceano Ártico e evidenciar quais os Estados estão dando forma às instituições e normas para o aproveitamento dessa nova oportunidade. Para a consecução deste objetivo o texto foi estruturado em três seções. A primeira delas apresenta ao leitor as projeções de acessibilidade à navegação no oceano Ártico e as potenciais rotas marítimas que se descortinam para o comércio marítimo. A segunda seção do artigo analisa como os Estados com territórios no Ártico, bem como aqueles com interesses diretos naquela região, estão articulando instituições para esse fim, notadamente o Conselho do Ártico. A terceira e última seção analisa "como" e "porque" a China, um Estado exógeno ao Ártico, tem conseguido implementar estratégias bem-sucedidas em defesa dos seus interesses naquela região.
Exact Solution for Peristaltic Transport of a Micropolar Fluid in a Channel with Convective Boundary Conditions and Heat Source/Sink
Authors: Hayat Tasawar , Yasmin Humaira , Ahmad Bashir , Chen Guo-Qian
Published: July 2014

This paper investigates the peristaltic transport of an incompressible micropolar fluid in an asymmetric channel with heat source/sink and convective boundary conditions. Mathematical formulation is completed in a wave frame of reference. Long wavelength and low Reynolds number approach is adopted. The solutions for velocity, microrotation component, axial pressure gradient, temperature, stream function, and pressure rise over a wavelength are obtained. Velocity and temperature distributions are analyzed for different parameters of interest
New Rational Homoclinic Solution and Rogue Wave Solution for the Coupled Nonlinear Schrödinger Equation
Authors: Li Long-Xing , Liu Jun , Dai Zheng-De , Liu Ren-Lang
Published: July 2014

In this work, the rational homoclinic solution (rogue wave solution) can be obtained via the classical homoclinic solution for the nonlinear Schrödinger (NLS) equation and the coupled nonlinear Schrödinger (CNLS) equation, respectively. This is a new way for generating rogue wave comparing with direct constructing method and Darboux dressing technique
Physics and Picasso
Authors: Song Daegene
Published: July 2014

Paintings from four different periods are considered in chronological order to review an aspect of the ‘advancement’ of arts. In particular, on the basis of a distinction between matter and mind, it is discussed that the Western arts have progressed from involving mainly matter, or objective description, to placing greater emphasis on mind, or subjective imagination. An examination of the advancement of arts may hint that physics, which has dealt with matter so far, may address the aspect of mind in the future.