bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
X-linked acrogigantism syndrome: clinical profile and therapeutic responses
Authors: Beckers Albert , Lodish Maya Beth , Trivellin Giampaolo , Rostomyan Liliya , Lee Misu , Faucz Fabio R , Yuan Bo , Choong Catherine S , Caberg Jean-Hubert , Verrua Elisa , Naves Luciana Ansaneli , Cheetham Tim D , Young Jacques , Lysy Philippe A , Petrossians Patrick , Cotterill Andrew , Shah Nalini Samir , Metzger Daniel , Castermans Emilie , Ambrosio Maria Rosaria , Villa Chiara , Strebkova Natalia , Mazerkina Nadia , Gaillard Stéphan , Barra Gustavo Barcelos , Casulari Luis Augusto , Neggers Sebastian J , Salvatori Roberto , Jaffrain-Rea Marie-Lise , Zacharin Margaret , Santamaria Beatriz Lecumberri , Zacharieva Sabina , Lim Ee Mun , Mantovani Giovanna , Zatelli Maria Chaira , Collins Michael T , Bonneville Jean-François , Quezado Martha , Chittiboina Prashant , Oldfield Edward H , Bours Vincent , Liu Pengfei , de Herder Wouter W , Pellegata Natalia , Lupski James R , Daly Adrian F , Stratakis Constantine A
Published: February 2015

X-linked acrogigantism (X-LAG) is a new syndrome of pituitary gigantism, caused by microduplications on chromosome Xq26.3, encompassing the geneGPR101, which is highly upregulated in pituitary tumors. We conducted this study to explore the clinical, radiological, and hormonal phenotype and responses to therapy in patients with X-LAG syndrome. The study included 18 patients (13 sporadic) with X-LAG and microduplication of chromosome Xq26.3. All sporadic cases had unique duplications and the inheritance pattern in two families was dominant, with all Xq26.3 duplication carriers being affected. Patients began to grow rapidly as early as 2–3 months of age (median 12 months). At diagnosis (median delay 27 months), patients had a median height and weight standard deviation scores (SDS) of >+3.9 SDS. Apart from the increased overall body size, the children had acromegalic symptoms including acral enlargement and facial coarsening. More than a third of cases had increased appetite. Patients had marked hypersecretion of GH/IGF1 and usually prolactin, due to a pituitary macroadenoma or hyperplasia. Primary neurosurgical control was achieved with extensive anterior pituitary resection, but postoperative hypopituitarism was frequent. Control with somatostatin analogs was not readily achieved despite moderate to high levels of expression of somatostatin receptor subtype-2 in tumor tissue. Postoperative use of adjuvant pegvisomant resulted in control of IGF1 in all five cases where it was employed. X-LAG is a new infant-onset gigantism syndrome that has a severe clinical phenotype leading to challenging disease management.
Decreased STAT3 in human idiopathic fetal growth restriction contributes to trophoblast dysfunction
Authors: Borg A J , Yong H E J , Lappas M , Degrelle S A , Keogh R J , Da Silva-Costa F , Fournier T , Abumaree M , Keelan J A , Kalionis B , Murthi P
Published: February 2015

Abnormal trophoblast function is associated with fetal growth restriction (FGR). The JAK–STAT pathway is one of the principal signalling mechanisms by which cytokines and growth factors modulate cell proliferation, differentiation, cell migration and apoptosis. The expression of placental JAK–STAT genes in human idiopathic FGR is unknown. In this study, we propose the hypothesis that JAK–STAT pathway genes are differentially expressed in idiopathic FGR-affected pregnancies and contribute to abnormal feto-placental growth by modulating the expression of the amino acid transporterSNAT2, differentiation markerCGB/human chorionic gonadotrophin beta-subunit (β-hCG) and apoptosis markers caspases 3 and 8, andTP53. Expression profiling of FGR-affected placentae revealed that mRNA levels ofSTAT3,STAT2andSTAT5Bdecreased by 69, 52 and 50%, respectively, compared with gestational-age-matched controls. Further validation by real-time PCR and immunoblotting confirmed significantly lowerSTAT3mRNA and STAT3 protein (total and phosphorylated) levels in FGR placentae. STAT3 protein was localised to the syncytiotrophoblast (ST) in both FGR and control placentae. ST differentiation was modelled byin vitrodifferentiation of primary villous trophoblast cells from first-trimester and term placentae, and by treating choriocarcinoma-derived BeWo cells with forskolin in cell culture. Differentiation in these models was associated with increasedSTAT3mRNA and protein levels. In BeWo cells treated with siRNA targetingSTAT3, the mRNA and protein levels of CGB/β-hCG, caspases 3 and 8, andTP53were significantly increased, while that ofSNAT2was significantly decreased compared with the negative control siRNA. In conclusion, we report that decreasedSTAT3expression in placentae may contribute to abnormal trophoblast function in idiopathic FGR-affected pregnancies.
Soft Shoulders Ahead: Spurious Signatures of Soft and Partial Selective Sweeps Result from Linked Hard Sweeps
Authors: Schrider Daniel R , Mendes Fábio K , Hahn Matthew W , Kern Andrew D
Published: February 2015

Characterizing the nature of the adaptive process at the genetic level is a central goal for population genetics. In particular, we know little about the sources of adaptive substitution or about the number of adaptive variants currently segregating in nature. Historically, population geneticists have focused attention on the hard-sweep model of adaptation in which a de novo beneficial mutation arises and rapidly fixes in a population. Recently more attention has been given to soft-sweep models, in which alleles that were previously neutral, or nearly so, drift until such a time as the environment shifts and their selection coefficient changes to become beneficial. It remains an active and difficult problem, however, to tease apart the telltale signatures of hard vs. soft sweeps in genomic polymorphism data. Through extensive simulations of hard- and soft-sweep models, here we show that indeed the two might not be separable through the use of simple summary statistics. In particular, it seems that recombination in regions linked to, but distant from, sites of hard sweeps can create patterns of polymorphism that closely mirror what is expected to be found near soft sweeps. We find that a very similar situation arises when using haplotype-based statistics that are aimed at detecting partial or ongoing selective sweeps, such that it is difficult to distinguish the shoulder of a hard sweep from the center of a partial sweep. While knowing the location of the selected site mitigates this problem slightly, we show that stochasticity in signatures of natural selection will frequently cause the signal to reach its zenith far from this site and that this effect is more severe for soft sweeps; thus inferences of the target as well as the mode of positive selection may be inaccurate. In addition, both the time since a sweep ends and biologically realistic levels of allelic gene conversion lead to errors in the classification and identification of selective sweeps. This general problem of “soft shoulders” underscores the difficulty in differentiating soft and partial sweeps from hard-sweep scenarios in molecular population genomics data. The soft-shoulder effect also implies that the more common hard sweeps have been in recent evolutionary history, the more prevalent spurious signatures of soft or partial sweeps may appear in some genome-wide scans.
Cognitive Outcomes After Neonatal Encephalopathy
Authors: Pappas Athina , Shankaran Seetha , McDonald Scott A. , Vohr Betty R. , Hintz Susan R. , Ehrenkranz Richard A. , Tyson Jon E. , Yolton Kimberly , Das Abhik , Bara Rebecca , Hammond Jane , Higgins Rosemary D. ,   for the Hypothermia Extended Follow-up Subcommittee of the Eunice Kennedy Shriver NICHD Neonatal Research Network
Published: February 2015

OBJECTIVES:

To describe the spectrum of cognitive outcomes of children with and without cerebral palsy (CP) after neonatal encephalopathy, evaluate the prognostic value of early developmental testing and report on school services and additional therapies.

METHODS:

The participants of this study are the school-aged survivors of the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development Neonatal Research Network randomized controlled trial of whole-body hypothermia. Children underwent neurologic examinations and neurodevelopmental and cognitive testing with the Bayley Scales of Infant Development–II at 18 to 22 months and the Wechsler intelligence scales and the Neuropsychological Assessment–Developmental Neuropsychological Assessment at 6 to 7 years. Parents were interviewed about functional status and receipt of school and support services. We explored predictors of cognitive outcome by using multiple regression models.

RESULTS:

Subnormal IQ scores were identified in more than a quarter of the children: 96% of survivors with CP had an IQ <70, 9% of children without CP had an IQ <70, and 31% had an IQ of 70 to 84. Children with a mental developmental index <70 at 18 months had, on average, an adjusted IQ at 6 to 7 years that was 42 points lower than that of those with a mental developmental index >84 (95% confidence interval, −49.3 to −35.0; P < .001). Twenty percent of children with normal IQ and 28% of those with IQ scores of 70 to 84 received special educational support services or were held back ≥1 grade level.

CONCLUSIONS:

Cognitive impairment remains an important concern for all children with neonatal encephalopathy.
Maternal Cautopyreiophagia as a Rare Cause of Neonatal Hemolysis: A Case Report
Authors: Bernardo Erika O. , Matos Renée I. , Dawood Taslim , Whiteway Susan L.
Published: February 2015

Hyperbilirubinemia in the first 24 hours of life in a newborn is pathologic, necessitating additional evaluation. We report the first case of hemolysis and subsequent hyperbilirubinemia in an otherwise normal term neonate resulting from oxidative stress in the form of maternal cautopyreiophagia: the ingestion of burnt matchstick heads. During the third trimester of pregnancy, the infant’s mother consumed more than 300 burnt matchstick heads weekly for 4 weeks. Matches contain potassium chlorate, a powerful oxidant that when ingested can ultimately lead to the destruction of erythrocytes, disseminated intravascular coagulation, kidney injury, or death. The infant’s bilirubin rose as high as 17 mg/dL at 22 hours of life; however, the infant did well with a brief course of phototherapy. This case highlights the importance of prenatal questioning about maternal ingestion of potentially oxidative substances and assessing the possible risk for the infant.
Snacks, Sweetened Beverages, Added Sugars, and Schools
Authors:   COUNCIL ON SCHOOL HEALTH,   COMMITTEE ON NUTRITION, Murray Robert , Bhatia Jatinder , Okamoto Jeffrey , Allison Mandy , Ancona Richard , Attisha Elliott , De Pinto Cheryl , Holmes Breena , Kjolhede Chris , Lerner Marc , Minier Mark , Weiss-Harrison Adrienne , Young Thomas , Daniels Stephen R. , Abrams Steven A. , Corkins Mark R. , de Ferranti Sarah D. , Golden Neville H. , Magge Sheela N. , Schwarzenberg Sarah Jane
Published: February 2015

This Policy Statement was reaffirmed April 2023.

Concern over childhood obesity has generated a decade-long reformation of school nutrition policies. Food is available in school in 3 venues: federally sponsored school meal programs; items sold in competition to school meals, such as a la carte, vending machines, and school stores; and foods available in myriad informal settings, including packed meals and snacks, bake sales, fundraisers, sports booster sales, in-class parties, or other school celebrations. High-energy, low-nutrient beverages, in particular, contribute substantial calories, but little nutrient content, to a student’s diet. In 2004, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommended that sweetened drinks be replaced in school by water, white and flavored milks, or 100% fruit and vegetable beverages. Since then, school nutrition has undergone a significant transformation. Federal, state, and local regulations and policies, along with alternative products developed by industry, have helped decrease the availability of nutrient-poor foods and beverages in school. However, regular access to foods of high energy and low quality remains a school issue, much of it attributable to students, parents, and staff. Pediatricians, aligning with experts on child nutrition, are in a position to offer a perspective promoting nutrient-rich foods within calorie guidelines to improve those foods brought into or sold in schools. A positive emphasis on nutritional value, variety, appropriate portion, and encouragement for a steady improvement in quality will be a more effective approach for improving nutrition and health than simply advocating for the elimination of added sugars.
Starzeć się z godnością: od doświadczenia straty do owocowania
Authors: Morciniec Piotr
Published: February 2015

W praktyce życia i w literaturze przedmiotu uderza antagonistyczne, stanowczo pozytywne lub negatywne ujmowanie starości. Pierwsze ma najczęściej korzenie biblijno-teologiczne, drugie – socjokulturowe. Szukając właściwej postawy wobec własnej i cudzej starości, odkrywamy, że okres senioralny jako czas odnajdywania nowego sensu można tylko wybrać, nie da się go natomiast moralizatorsko zalecić lub nakazać. Główna teza tekstu brzmi, że niepowodzenia w kształtowaniu sensu własnej starości wynikają w dużej mierze z nieprzepracowania strat wiążących się z tą fazą życia. W celu wskazania drogi do godnej starości starano się najpierw zdefiniować stan faktyczny zwany starością czy wiekiem senioralnym (1), następnie omówiono zagadnienie przepracowania zdiagnozowanych strat rzeczywistych i subiektywnych (2), by w trakcie tego celowego procesu dojść do zbierania owoców życia i starości (3) i do przybliżenia próby praktycznej realizacji takiego podejścia (4).
Wskazania homiletyczne zawarte w Listach o wymowie ojca Euzebiusza Statecznego
Authors: Włodarczyk Jarosław
Published: February 2015

W 1920 roku została wydana książka o. Euzebiusza Franciszka Statecznego Listy o wymowie. Autor zebrał w niej publikowane wcześniej w częściach wskazania dla mówców ujęte w formę pięciu listów. Zaznaczał, że jego dzieło nie ma charakteru podręcznika retoryki czy homiletyki ani nie jest pełnym opracowaniem zagadnienia. Swoją uwagę koncentruje na przymiotach mówcy oraz cechach jego dzieła. Artykuł niniejszy przybliża sylwetkę autora, prezentuje treść jego dzieła i podejmuje próbę odpowiedzi na pytanie o aktualność zawartych w nim wskazówek.
Bridging the Distance: A Clinical Phase Model of Family Therapy with Adolescent Residential Treatment
Authors: Báez Johanna Creswell
Published: February 2015

As early as the 1970s, residential care sought to include families in the clinical treatment of their children (Kemp, 1971). However, families have not been consistently included in residential treatment (Sunseri, 2004) and models are needed to clinically support the phases of family treatment. This article describes an integrative clinical phase model for supporting family therapy with an adolescent in a residential program. Several different phase models are reviewed for family involvement in residential treatment (Fairhurst, 1996; Jones, 1985; Martone, Kemp, & Pearson, 1989). A phase model is advanced that includes updates in family-centered work, corresponding treatment techniques, and knowledge gained in supporting families at one residential program, the Wediko School.
The Economic Conditions of Child Physical Abuse: A Call for a National Research, Policy, and Practice Agenda
Authors: Conrad-Hiebner Aislinn , Scanlon Edward
Published: February 2015

Child physical abuse and economic hardship are two of the most pervasive social problems addressed by the social work profession. Despite empirical evidence that child physical abuse is associated with economic disparities, the field of child welfare lacks a national, coordinated agenda for economic hardship prevention. We review social scientific studies that demonstrate the links between child abuse and a range of economic stressors, including poverty, unemployment, and material hardships. Implications for research, practice, and policy are presented, which could enhance the financial well-being of low-income families at risk of child physical abuse.
Laboratory-scale hydraulic pulse testing: influence of air fraction in cavity on estimation of permeability
Authors: Selvadurai A.P.S. , Najari M.
Published: February 2015

When performing transient hydraulic pulse tests on porous materials in the laboratory it is implicitly assumed that the accessible pore space of a porous medium and the pressurised fluid-filled cavity are completely saturated with the permeating fluid. In certain instances the pressurised fluid cavity in a hydraulic pulse test can contain an air fraction introduced through either the experimental procedure or released from the unsaturated regions of the porous medium. The purpose of this paper is to examine the influence of an air fraction within the pressurised region, on the estimation of permeability derived from transient hydraulic pulse tests. A series of hydraulic pulse tests conducted on Stanstead Granite was used to estimate the permeability of the rock. It is shown that if the effect of the cavity air fraction is omitted from the analysis of the hydraulic pulse test, the permeability can be underestimated. The paper also presents a discussion of the potential role the air fraction can contribute to discrepancies in the permeabilities estimated from steady-state tests and hydraulic pulse tests.
Modelling ice rubble–rock berm interaction
Authors: Phillips Ryan , Chi Ken
Published: February 2015

Rock berms are being used to protect seabed infrastructure, such as pipelines, from grounding ice rubble features. Typical rock berms may be damaged under shear by a first-year grounded ice rubble keel. A series of physical model tests in a geotechnical centrifuge has indicated that such damage occurs under loads less than those typical of actual design conditions. These tests have both reproduced failures of the rock berm and identified failure criteria for the ice rubble.
Bed of roses? The role of garden space in older people's well-being
Authors: Burton Elizabeth , Mitchell Lynne , Stride Chris
Published: February 2015

The purpose of this research was to investigate the role of outdoor housing environment (OHE), including front and back gardens, yards, courtyards, patios and balconies, in older people's well-being. Descriptions of their OHEs were collected from 2558 individuals living in 526 distinct housing developments using a postal questionnaire. A large range of background variables were measured, mainly through the questionnaire. Characteristics of respondents’ immediate neighbourhood environments were measured from digital maps and satellite/bird's-eye images. Among the OHE variables, statistically significant predictors of well-being were having one's own patio (as opposed to shared or none), and having a green view from one's living area (a positive effect on well-being). The authors conclude that it would be beneficial for older people's housing to include private patio space, where possible, as well as a large amount of greenery. The research supports the claim that older people benefit from green space as much by viewing it from inside as spending time in it. If older people have no or very little garden space, a green street environment is likely to increase their well-being, especially if it can be seen from their home.
Towards an integrated energy landscape
Authors: de Boer Jessica , Zuidema Christian
Published: February 2015

In this paper, the authors show that an area-based approach to fostering the ‘energy transition’ has potential to help spatial planners and policy makers understand how innovative sustainable energy initiatives may contribute to the energy transition. On the basis of a desk study of research reports on energy initiatives and empirical data gathering through interviews with energy initiatives, the authors witnessed that local energy initiatives benefit from linkages with their local physical and socio-economic landscape. Furthermore, if such local energy initiatives spread and upscale, the image emerges of what the authors coin an ‘integrated energy landscape’; a multifunctional physical and socio-economic landscape of which energy systems are an integrated part. The authors argue that such image helps to understand the complex processes of a transition towards sustainable energy systems and is therefore promoted as potential guidance for planners and policy makers involved in the ‘energy transition’.
La importancia de la cultura cooperativa y la comunicación como factores de éxito para las cooperativas de ahorro y crédito en Neiva (Huila)
Authors: Huergo Tobar Pedro Luis , Artunduaga Calderón Diva María
Published: February 2015

Esta investigación busca conocer la importancia y el manejo de la cultura cooperativa y la comunicación entre sus líderes y colaboradores en las cooperativas de ahorro y crédito (cac) en Neiva, y determinar si la identificación de elementos que aplican en la comunicación y las fallas o incidencias negativas que se dan en el proceso de comunicar internamente son factores de éxito. Se encontró un amplio conoci- miento y comprensión de la cultura cooperativa por parte de sus líderes y colaboradores; además, los canales de comunicación son ágiles, fluidos y propician un buen clima organizacional, lo cual conlleva una mejor prestación del servicio al asociado, e impulsa el aumento de su base social.
La asociatividad y las cadenas productivas: una alternativa de desarrollo para el municipio de Yopal, Casanare
Authors: Cáceres Gómez Luz Stella , Pardo Enciso Claudia Esmeralda Esmeralda , Torres Alicia Milena
Published: February 2015

El presente trabajo realizado por el Grupo Lasallista de Economía Solidaria (gles) de la Universidad de La Salle, en desarrollo del proyecto titulado “Organización alternativa para la producción agrícola y turística en Yopal, Casanare”, articulado al programa “Bioasentamientos humanos para una nueva ruralidad”, que contribuye a la organización de pequeños y medianos productores agrícolas y a la dinamización de la actividad turística por medio de formas asociativas en las organización de cadenas productivas agrícolas en Yopal, Casanare, desde un enfoque de nueva ruralidad, con perspectiva hacia el 2014. La estructura del análisis observa la actividad productiva en Yopal y la conformación de cadenas productivas con fundamento asociativo como estrategia viable, considerando las ventajas comparativas presentadas en la región, el impacto de la actividad petrolera en la dinámica productiva, social, cultural y económica del municipio, y el marco de política nacional y regional que evidencia posturas gubernamentales hacia el fomento del desarrollo económico y social tanto del país como de las regiones, soportado en la dinamización de la actividad agrícola y turística.
Factor C-comunidad, factor dinamizador en las organizaciones solidarias
Authors: Valencia-Velásquez Luz Miriam , Gallego-Moná Luis Alberto
Published: February 2015

El presente artículo es resultado de la investigación desarrollada en las asociaciones y cooperativas de pequeños y medianos productores agropecuarios, vinculadas a la economía solidaria de las zonas de Sinifaná y San Juan, en la región del suroeste antioqueño. Se propone una reflexión sobre el Factor C-comunidad, como el factor que integra la propuesta asociativa en estas organizaciones que trabajan con el objetivo de satisfacer las necesidades, las aspiraciones y los deseos de las personas, las familias y las comunidades en las que operan. La metodología utilizada en la investigación parte del enfoque cualitativo de tipo etnográfico, en la cual se utilizaron técnicas tanto cualitativas como cuantitativas, permitiendo comprender la dinámica de las organizaciones. Los resultados más relevantes llevaron a identificar el Factor C-comunidad como un objetivo socioeconómico efectivamente integrador que, operando en combinación con otros factores productivos, se convierte en la fuerza que une voluntades y conciencias hacia el mejoramiento de la calidad de vida de sus integrantes, la rentabilidad de la organización y su entorno.
Mundo rural, tecnología y producción orgánica
Authors: Zabala-Salazar Hernando
Published: February 2015

Gran parte del conflicto político colombiano, traducido en la acción protagónica de grupos armados asentados en territorios de baja presencia estatal, se explica por la existencia de un bajo nivel de desarrollo agrícola en el país y la imposibilidad de hacer realidad una reforma agraria. A lo anterior se agrega el impacto que ha producido la transformación del país en el mundo rural. No es un secreto que la re-estructuración de la economía rural debe ser un proceso de transformación social y regional que termine con el extenso atraso que mantiene al campesino colombiano en las mismas condiciones de finales del siglo xix. Por ello, es urgente dar respuesta integral a todas estas situaciones y proceder a la formulación de políticas públicas que favorezcan la democratización de la propiedad, la producción con base asociativa, la generación de valores agregados a los productos tradicionales del campo, la producción para la autosuficiencia alimentaria del país, el acceso a los mercados, el mejoramiento del ingreso familiar y la oportunidad para que la población rural se acerque al disfrute de la vida.
Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi counteract the Janzen‐Connell effect of soil pathogens
Authors: Liang Minxia , Liu Xubing , Etienne Rampal S. , Huang Fengmin , Wang Yongfan , Yu Shixiao
Published: February 2015

Soilborne pathogens can contribute to diversity maintenance in tree communities through the Janzen‐Connell effect, whereby the pathogenic reduction of seedling performance attenuates with distance from conspecifics. By contrast, arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) have been reported to promote seedling performance; however, it is unknown whether this is also distance dependent. Here, we investigate the distance dependence of seedling performance in the presence of both pathogens and AMF. In a subtropical forest in south China, we conducted a four‐year field census of four species with relatively large phylogenetic distances and found no distance‐dependent mortality for newly germinated seedlings. By experimentally separating the effects of AMF and pathogens on seedling performance of six subtropical tree species in a shade house, we found that soil pathogens significantly inhibited seedling survival and growth while AMF largely promoted seedling growth, and these effects were host specific and declined with increasing conspecific distance. Together, our field and experimental results suggest that AMF can neutralize the negative effect of pathogens and that the Janzen‐Connell effect may play a less prominent role in explaining diversity of nondominant tree species than previously thought.
Alternative Bone Graft Sources and Techniques for Tibiofibular Synostosis Creation Following Transtibial Amputation
Authors: Overmann Archie , Potter Benjamin K.
Published: February 2015

Case:

Alternative methods of the modified Ertl osteomyoplasty with use of two different tibial grafts for synostosis are presented in two patients who underwent revision transtibial amputation.

Conclusion:

These two techniques spare residual limb length relative to other described local techniques, avoid the morbidity of remote autograft harvest, and may be attempted in patients with inadequate residual limb lengths or in those who have tibiofibular length mismatch to achieve stable bridge synostosis.
Atypical Osteomyelitis Caused by Mycobacterium chelonae in a Nonimmunocompromised Patient
Authors: Tanagho Andy , Hatab Sameh , Hawkins Amanda
Published: February 2015

Case:

A previously healthy fifty-seven-year-old woman presented with an acute atypical mycobacterial infection of the first metatarsal bone of the left foot. Despite antimicrobial treatment, the infection was not controlled. First-ray amputation was performed, and antimicrobial treatment was continued for a total of six months. The patient was fitted with an orthotic (insole) and followed for eighteen months; there was no recurrence of infection.

Conclusion:

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case report describing Mycobacterium chelonae osteomyelitis of the first metatarsal ray in an immunocompetent individual. This diagnosis should be considered in patients with osteomyelitis that persists despite the use of broad-spectrum antibiotics, even in healthy individuals.
Optimal Application Conditions for Steam/Solvent Coinjection
Authors: Keshavarz Mohsen , Okuno Ryosuke , Babadagli Tayfun
Published: February 2015

Laboratory and field data, although limited in number, have shown that steam/solvent coinjection can lead to a higher oil-production rate, higher ultimate oil recovery, and lower steam/oil ratio, compared with steam-only injection in steam-assisted gravity drainage (SAGD). However, a critical question still remains unanswered: Under what circumstances can the previously mentioned benefits be obtained when steam and solvent are coinjected? To answer this question requires a detailed knowledge of the mechanisms involved in coinjection and an application of this knowledge to numerical simulation. Our earlier studies demonstrated that the determining factors for improved oil-production rates are relative positions with respect to the temperature and solvent fronts, the steam and solvent contents of the chamber at its interface with reservoir bitumen, and solvent-diluting effects on the mobilized bitumen just ahead of the chamber edge. Then, the key mechanisms for improved oil displacement are solvent propagation, solvent accumulation at the chamber edge, and phase transition.

This paper deals with this unanswered question by providing some key guidelines for selecting an optimum solvent and its concentration in coinjection of a single-component solvent with steam. The optimization considers the oil-production rate, ultimate oil recovery, and solvent retention in situ. Multiphase behavior of water/hydrocarbon mixtures in the chamber is explained in detail analytically and numerically. The proposed guidelines are applied to simulation of the Senlac solvent-aided-process pilot and the Long Lake expanding-solvent SAGD pilot.

Results show that an optimum volatility of solvent can be typically observed in terms of the oil-production rate for given operation conditions. This optimum volatility occurs as a result of the balance between two factors affecting the oil mobility along the chamber edge: reduction of the chamber-edge temperature and superior dilution of oil in coinjection of more-volatile solvent with steam. It is possible to maximize oil recovery and minimize solvent retention in situ by controlling the concentration of a given coinjection solvent. Beginning coinjection immediately after achieving interwell communication enables the enhancement of oil recovery early in the process. Subsequently, the solvent concentration should be gradually decreased until it becomes zero for the final period of the coinjection. Simulation case studies show the validity of the oil-recovery mechanisms described. In the final section of the paper, a limited economic analysis of SAGD and different coinjection cases is provided.
Polymer-Flooding-Pilot Learning Curve: Five-Plus Years' Experience To Reduce Cost per Incremental Barrel of Oil
Authors: Buciak J.. , Fondevila Sancet G.. , Del Pozo L..
Published: February 2015

This paper deals with the learning curve of a five-plus-year polymer-flooding pilot conducted in a mature waterflood that includes, for example, several works related to injector and producer wells and reservoir management. The scope of this paper is to describe the learning curve during the last 5 years rather than the reservoir response of the polymer-flooding technique; focus is on the aspects related to reduce cost per incremental barrel of oil for a possible extension to other waterflooded areas of the field.

Diadema oil field is in the San Jorge Gulf basin in the southern portion of Argentina. The field is operated by CAPSA, an Argentinean oil-producer company; it has 480 producer and 270 injector wells (interwell spacing is 250 m on average). The company has developed waterflooding over more than 18 years (today, this technique represents 82% of oil production in the field) and produces approximately 1600 m3/d of oil and 40 000 m3/d of gross production (96% water cut) with 38 400 m3/d of water injection.

The reservoir that is polymer-flooded is characterized by high permeability (average of 500 md), high heterogeneity (10 to 5,000 md), high porosity (30%), very stratified sandstone layers (4 to 12 m of net thickness) with poor lateral continuity (fluvial origin), and 20 °API oil (100 cp at reservoir conditions).

Diadema's polymer-flooding pilot started in October 2007 on five water injectors (it includes 13 injectors today) with an injected rate of 1000 m3/d (today, 2000 m3/d). Polymer solution is made with produced water (15,000 ppm brine) and 1,500 ppm of hydrolyzed polyacrylamide polymer reaching 15- to 20-cp fluid-injection viscosity.

Oil-production rate from the original “central” producers (wells that are aided with 100% of polymer injection) has increased 100% at the same time as average reduction in water cut is approximately 15%.

The main aspects presented in this work are depth profile modification with crosslinked gel injected along with polymer, use of “curlers” to regulate injection in multiple wells with one injection pump without shearing the polymer, and an improved technology on producer wells with progressing-cavity pumps to decrease shut-in time and number of pump failures.

The plan for the future is to extend this project to other areas with the acquired knowledge and to improve different aspects, such as water quality and optimization of polymer plant operation. These improvements will allow the company to reduce operating costs per incremental barrel of oil.
Investigation of Guided-Particle Transport for Noninvasive Healing of Damaged Piping Systems by Use of Electro-Magneto-Mechanical Methods
Authors: Mukherjee Debanjan , Zaky Zeyad , Zohdi Tarek I. , Salama Amgad , Sun Shuyu
Published: February 2015

Virtually all engineering applications involve the use of piping, conduits, and channels. In the petroleum industry, piping systems are extensively used in upstream and downstream processes. These piping systems often carry fluids that are corrosive, which leads to wear, cavitation, and cracking. The replacement of damaged piping systems can be quite expensive, both in terms of capital costs and in operational downtime. This motivates the present research on noninvasive healing of cracked piping systems. In this investigation, we propose to develop computational models for characterizing noninvasive repair strategies involving electromagnetically guided particles. The objective is to heal industrial-piping systems noninvasively, from the exterior of the system, during operation, resulting in no downtime and minimal relative cost. The particle accumulation at a target location is controlled by external electromagnetic/mechanical means. There are two primary effects that play a role for guiding the particles to the solid-fluid-interface/wall: mechanical shear caused by the fluid flow, and an electrical or magnetic force. In this work we develop and study a relationship that characterizes contributions of both, and ascertain how this relationship scales with characteristic physical parameters. Characteristic nondimensional parameters that describe system behavior are derived, and their role in design is illustrated. A detailed, fully 3D discrete-element-simulation framework is presented, and illustrated by use of a model problem of magnetically guided particles. The detailed particle behavior is considered to be regulated by three effects: the field strength, the mass-flow rate, and the wall interactions.
Combination of a novel electrode material and artificial mediators to enhance power generation in an MFC
Authors: Taskan Ergin , Ozkaya Bestamin , Hasar Halil
Published: February 2015

This study focuses on two main aspects: developing a novel cost-effective electrode material and power production from domestic wastewater using three different mediators. Methylene blue (MB), neutral red (NR) and 2-hydroxy-1,4-naphthoquinone (HNQ) were selected as electrode mediators with different concentrations. A tin-coated copper mesh electrode was tested as anode electrode. Maximum power density of the microbial fuel cell (MFC) with 300 μM MB was 636 mW/m2. Optimal mediator concentrations with respect to the achieved maximum power output for MB, NR and HNQ were 300 μM, 200 μM and 50 μM, respectively. The results demonstrate that tin-coated copper mesh showed a higher biocompatibility and electrical conductivity.
Prediction of cavitation damage on spillway using K-nearest neighbor modeling
Authors: Fadaei Kermani E. , Barani G. A. , Ghaeini-Hessaroeyeh M.
Published: February 2015

Cavitation is a common and destructive process on spillways that threatens the stability of the structure and causes damage. In this study, based on the nearest neighbor model, a method has been presented to predict cavitation damage on spillways. The model was tested using data from the Shahid Abbaspour dam spillway in Iran. The level of spillway cavitation damage was predicted for eight different flow rates, using the nearest neighbor model. Moreover, based on the cavitation index, five damage levels from no damage to major damage have been determined. Results showed that the present model predicted damage locations and levels close to observed damage during past floods. Finally, the efficiency and precision of the model was quantified by statistical coefficients. Appropriate values of the correlation coefficient, root mean square error, mean absolute error and coefficient of residual mass show the present model is suitable and efficient.
Nanofiltration technology in water treatment and reuse: applications and costs
Authors: Shahmansouri Arash , Bellona Christopher
Published: February 2015

Nanofiltration (NF) is a relatively recent development in membrane technology with characteristics that fall between ultrafiltration and reverse osmosis (RO). While RO membranes dominate the seawater desalination industry, NF is employed in a variety of water and wastewater treatment and industrial applications for the selective removal of ions and organic substances, as well as certain niche seawater desalination applications. The purpose of this study was to review the application of NF membranes in the water and wastewater industry including water softening and color removal, industrial wastewater treatment, water reuse, and desalination. Basic economic analyses were also performed to compare the profitability of using NF membranes over alternative processes. Although any detailed cost estimation is hampered by some uncertainty (e.g. applicability of estimation methods to large-scale systems, labor costs in different areas of the world), NF was found to be a cost-effective technology for certain investigated applications. The selection of NF over other treatment technologies, however, is dependent on several factors including pretreatment requirements, influent water quality, treatment facility capacity, and treatment goals.
The Development of a Myoelectric Training Tool for Above-Elbow Amputees
Authors: Dawson Michael R , Fahimi Farbod , Carey Jason P
Published: February 2015

The objective of above-elbow myoelectric prostheses is to reestablish the functionality of missing limbs and increase the quality of life of amputees. By using electromyography (EMG) electrodes attached to the surface of the skin, amputees are able to control motors in myoelectric prostheses by voluntarily contracting the muscles of their residual limb. This work describes the development of an inexpensive myoelectric training tool (MTT) designed to help upper limb amputees learn how to use myoelectric technology in advance of receiving their actual myoelectric prosthesis. The training tool consists of a physical and simulated robotic arm, signal acquisition hardware, controller software, and a graphical user interface. The MTT improves over earlier training systems by allowing a targeted muscle reinnervation (TMR) patient to control up to two degrees of freedom simultaneously. The training tool has also been designed to function as a research prototype for novel myoelectric controllers. A preliminary experiment was performed in order to evaluate the effectiveness of the MTT as a learning tool and to identify any issues with the system. Five able-bodied participants performed a motor-learning task using the EMG controlled robotic arm with the goal of moving five balls from one box to another as quickly as possible. The results indicate that the subjects improved their skill in myoelectric control over the course of the trials. A usability survey was administered to the subjects after their trials. Results from the survey showed that the shoulder degree of freedom was the most difficult to control.
Mathematical Models Based on Transfer Functions to Estimate Tissue Temperature During RF Cardiac Ablation in Real Time
Authors: Alba-Martínez Jose , Trujillo Macarena , Blasco-Gimenez Ramon , Berjano Enrique
Published: February 2015

Radiofrequency cardiac ablation (RFCA) has been used to treat certain types of cardiac arrhythmias by producing a thermal lesion. Even though a tissue temperature higher than 50ºC is required to destroy the target, thermal mapping is not currently used during RFCA. Our aim was thus to develop mathematical models capable of estimating tissue temperature from tissue characteristics acquired or estimated at the beginning of the procedure (electrical conductivity, thermal conductivity, specific heat and density) and the applied voltage at any time. Biological tissue was considered as a system with an input (applied voltage) and output (tissue temperature), and so the mathematical models were based on transfer functions relating these variables. We used theoretical models based on finite element method to verify the mathematical models. Firstly, we solved finite element models to identify the transfer functions between the temperature at a depth of 4 mm and a constant applied voltage using a 7Fr and 4 mm electrode. The results showed that the relationships can be expressed as first-order transfer functions. Changes in electrical conductivity only affected the static gain of the system, while specific heat variations produced a change in the dynamic system response. In contrast, variations in thermal conductivity modified both the static gain and the dynamic system response. Finally, to assess the performance of the transfer functions obtained, we conducted a new set of computer simulations using a controlled temperature protocol and considering the temperature dependence of the thermal and electrical conductivities, i.e. conditions closer to those found in clinical use. The results showed that the difference between the values estimated from transfer functions and the temperatures obtained from finite element models was less than 4ºC, which suggests that the proposed method could be used to estimate tissue temperature in real time.
Cholesteryl Ester Transfer Protein Gene and Effectiveness of Lipid Lowering of Atorvastatin
Authors: Kolovou Genovefa , Mihas Constantinos , Anagnostopoulou Katherine , Kolovou Vana , Giannakopoulou Vasiliki , Kostakou Peggy , Stamatelatou Marianna , Mavrogeni Sophie , Degiannis Dimitrios , Mikhailidis Dimitri P.
Published: February 2015

Cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP) plays a key role in lipid metabolism. Thus, variations in the CETP gene may be clinically relevant.

Newly started atorvastatin users (n=212) were genotyped for CETP genetic variants (TaqIB and I405V). Homozygotes for B1 allele of TaqIB polymorphism had lower plasma high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) compared with B1B2 or B2B2 genotypes (p=0.03, for each). Homozygotes for I allele of I405V polymorphism had lower plasma HDL-C compared with IV or VV genotypes (p=0.001, for each). In the whole population, the B1 carriers increased HDL-C levels by 4% after atorvastatin treatment, compared with B2 carriers, where a 4% decrease occurred (p=0.03). Also homozygotes for B1 allele decreased triglyceride levels to a lesser, though not significant, degree compared to B1B2 or B2B2 genotypes.

CETP TaqIB or I405V polymorphisms seem to modify the lipid lowering response to atorvastatin treatment. This knowledge may help design more effective hypolipidaemic treatment.
Finite Element Modelling and Analysis of “All-Steel” Dismountable
Buckling Restrained Braces
Authors: D’Aniello M. , Della Corte G. , Landolfo R.
Published: February 2015

This paper describes a theoretical investigation on the response of “all-steel” dismountable buckling restrained
braces (BRBs) through the analysis of finite element models (FEMs). The focus of this investigation is on a special type
of BRB developed for seismic upgrading of existing reinforced concrete buildings and experimentally tested previously.
After a short summary of experimental results, the paper describes the finite element models and the analysis results. Subsequently,
a discussion addresses the following issues: (i) influence of the core-to-casing clearance; (ii) influence of spacing
of connections along the casing longitudinal axis; (iii) compression-to-tension strength ratio; (iv) core buckling wavelengths
and core-to-casing interaction forces. Finally, the paper presents a comparison of numerical results and available
analytical models.
Metabolomics and Diabetes: Analytical and Computational Approaches
Authors: Sas Kelli M. , Karnovsky Alla , Michailidis George , Pennathur Subramaniam
Published: February 2015

Diabetes is characterized by altered metabolism of key molecules and regulatory pathways. The phenotypic expression of diabetes and associated complications encompasses complex interactions between genetic, environmental, and tissue-specific factors that require an integrated understanding of perturbations in the network of genes, proteins, and metabolites. Metabolomics attempts to systematically identify and quantitate small molecule metabolites from biological systems. The recent rapid development of a variety of analytical platforms based on mass spectrometry and nuclear magnetic resonance have enabled identification of complex metabolic phenotypes. Continued development of bioinformatics and analytical strategies has facilitated the discovery of causal links in understanding the pathophysiology of diabetes and its complications. Here, we summarize the metabolomics workflow, including analytical, statistical, and computational tools, highlight recent applications of metabolomics in diabetes research, and discuss the challenges in the field.