bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quality assessment of an Ultra-Wide Band positioning system for indoor wheelchair court sports
Authors: Perrat Bertrand , Smith Martin J , Mason Barry S , Rhodes James M , Goosey-Tolfrey Vicky L
Published: April 2015

Ultra-Wide Band radio positioning systems are maturing very quickly and now represent a good candidate for indoor positioning. The aim of this study was to undertake a quality assessment on the use of a commercial Ultra-Wide Band positioning system for the tracking of athletes during indoor wheelchair court sports. Several aspects have been investigated including system set-up, calibration, sensor positioning, determination of sport performance indicators and quality assessment of the output. With a simple set-up procedure, it has been demonstrated that athletes tracking can be achieved with an average horizontal positioning error of 0.37 m (σ = ± 0.24 m). The distance covered can be computed after data processing with an error below 0.5% of the course length. It has also been demonstrated that the tag update rate and the number of wheelchairs on the court do not affect significantly the positioning quality; however, for highly dynamic movement tracking, higher rates are recommended for a finer dynamic recording.
Cerebral Blood Flow Changes in Glioblastoma Patients Undergoing Bevacizumab Treatment Are Seen in Both Tumor and Normal Brain
Authors: Andre Jalal B , Nagpal Seema , Hippe Daniel S , Ravanpay Ali C , Schmiedeskamp Heiko , Bammer Roland , Palagallo Gerald J , Recht Lawrence , Zaharchuk Greg
Published: April 2015

Bevacizumab (BEV) is increasingly used to treat recurrent glioblastoma (GBM) with some reported improvement in neurocognitive function despite potential neurotoxicities. We examined the effects of BEV on cerebral blood flow (CBF) within recurrent GBM tumor and in the contralateral middle cerebral artery (MCA) territory.

Post-chemoradiation patients with histologically confirmed GBM were treated with BEV and underwent routine, serial tumor imaging with additional pseudocontinuous arterial spin labeling (pcASL) following informed consent. Circular regions-of-interest were placed on pcASL images directly over the recurrent tumor and in the contralateral MCA territory. CBF changes before and during BEV treatment were evaluated in tumor and normal tissue. Linear mixed models were used to assess statistical significance.

Fifty-three pcASL studies in 18 patients were acquired. Evaluation yielded lower mean tumoral CBF during BEV treatment compared with pre-treatment (45 ± 27 vs. 65 ± 27 ml/100 g/min, p = 0.002), and in the contralateral MCA territory during, compared with pre-BEV treatment (35 ± 8.4 vs. 41 ± 8.4 ml/100 g/min, p = 0.03). The decrease in mean CBF tended to be greater in the tumoral region than in the contralateral MCA, though the difference did not reach statistical significance (31% vs. 13%; p = 0.082).

Conclusions

BEV administration results in statistically significant global CBF decrease with a potentially preferential decrease in tumor perfusion compared with normal brain tissue.
Epigenetic regulators as promising therapeutic targets in acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Gallipoli Paolo , Giotopoulos George , Huntly Brian J.P.
Published: April 2015

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML), the most prevalent acute leukemia in adults, is an aggressive hematological malignancy arising in hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells. With the exception of a few specific AML subtypes, the mainstays of treatment have not significantly changed over the last 20 years, and are still based on standard cytotoxic chemotherapy. As a result, clinical outcome remains poor for the majority of patients, with overall long-term survival in the region of 20–30%. Recent successes in characterizing the genetic landscape of AML have highlighted that, despite its heterogeneity, many cases of AML carry recurrent mutations in genes encoding epigenetic regulators. Transcriptional dysregulation and altered epigenetic function have therefore emerged as exciting areas in AML research and it is becoming increasingly clear that epigenetic dysfunction is central to leukemogenesis in AML. This has subsequently paved the way for the development of epigenetically targeted therapies. In this review, we will discuss the most recent advances in our understanding of the role of epigenetic dysregulation in AML pathobiology. We will particularly focus on those altered epigenetic programs that have been shown to be central to the development and maintenance of AML in preclinical models. We will discuss the recent development of therapeutics specifically targeting these key epigenetic programs in AML, describe their mechanism of action and present their current clinical development. Finally, we will discuss the opportunities presented by epigenetically targeted therapy in AML and will highlight future challenges ahead for the AML community, to ensure that these novel therapeutics are optimally translated into clinical practice and result in clinical improvement for AML patients.
Post‐infectious irritable bowel syndrome (PI‐IBS) after infection with Shiga‐like toxin‐producing Escherichia coli (STEC) O104:H4: A cohort study with prospective follow‐up
Authors: Andresen Viola , Löwe Bernd , Broicher Wiebke , Riegel Björn , Fraedrich Katharina , von Wulffen Moritz , Gappmayer Kerrin , Wegscheider Karl , Treszl András , Rose Matthias , Layer Peter , Lohse Ansgar W
Published: April 2015

Background

In May/June 2011, the new Shiga‐like toxin‐producing Escherichia coli (STEC) strain O104:H4 caused the severest outbreak ever recorded of hemorrhagic enterocolitis in 3842 patients in Germany.

Objectives

As bacterial enterocolitis is an established risk factor of subsequent irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), we aimed to estimate prevalence and incidence of post‐infectious (PI)‐IBS after six and 12 months in a cohort of STEC O104:H4 patients and to prospectively identify associated somatic and psychometric risk factors.

Methods

A total of 389 patients were studied prospectively at baseline and at six and 12 months after STEC infection using STEC disease‐related questionnaires and validated instruments for IBS (Rome III) and psychological factors. Frequencies and logistic regression models using multiple imputations were applied to assess predictor variables.

Results

Prevalence of IBS increased from 9.8% prior to STEC infection to 23.6% at six and 25.3% at 12 months after STEC infection. In patients without IBS symptoms prior to STEC infection, incidence of new IBS was 16.9%. Logistic regression models indicated higher somatization and anxiety scores as risk factors for, and mesalazine treatment during, STEC infection as the only significant protective factor against IBS. No other factor analyzed, including disease severity, showed an association.

Conclusions

PI‐IBS rates following this unusually severe STEC outbreak were similar to what has been observed after other infectious gastroenteritis outbreaks. Our findings suggest that mesalazine may have reduced the risk of subsequent PI‐IBS. As altered mucosal immune activity is a pivotal pathogenic factor in PI‐IBS, our observation of a potential protective effect of mesalazine might be explained by its known modulatory action on mucosal immunity, and may warrant further investigation.
Budd‐Chiari syndrome
Authors: Martens Pieter , Nevens Frederik
Published: April 2015

Budd‐Chiari syndrome (BCS) is a rare and potentially life‐threatening disorder characterized by obstruction of the hepatic outflow tract at any level between the junction of the inferior vena cava with the right atrium and the small hepatic veins. In the West, BCS is a rare hepatic manifestation of one or more underlying prothrombotic risk factors. The most common underlying prothrombotic risk factor is a myeloproliferative disorder, although it is now recognized that almost half of patients have multiple underlying prothrombotic risk factors. Clinical manifestations can be diverse, making BCS a possible differential diagnosis of many acute and chronic liver diseases. The index of suspicion should be very low if there is a known underlying prothrombotic risk factor and new onset of liver disease. Doppler ultrasound is sufficient for confirming the diagnosis, although tomographic imaging (computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)) is often necessary for further treatment and discussion with a multidisciplinary team. Anticoagulation is the cornerstone of the treatment. Despite the use of anticoagulation, the majority of patients need additional (more invasive) treatment strategies. Algorithms consisting of local angioplasty, TIPS and liver transplantation have been proposed, with treatment choice dictated by a lack of response to a less‐invasive treatment regimen. The application of these treatment strategies allows for a five‐year survival rate of 90%. In the long term the disease course of BCS can sometimes be complicated by recurrence, progression of the underlying myeloproliferative disorder, or development of post‐transplant lymphoma in transplant patients.
A Stab in the Dark? Point-of-Care Testing in the Population With Hip Fracture
Authors: Dawkins Claire , Atkinson Kate , Tate Anne , Eardley W. G. P.
Published: April 2015

Hip fracture incidence rises globally in an aging population who live in an era of financial austerity. Health service providers are under pressure both to optimize care and to increase efficiencies in the management of this vulnerable patient group. One area of inefficiency in perioperative processes is the assessment of deranged clotting profiles secondary to warfarinization and in the monitoring of hemoglobin. Delays are inherent in these processes, threatening patient care and impacting on financial incentivisation of performance. Point-of-care testing, while widespread in other areas of health care, is underutilized in hip fracture management. This work explores the application to hip fracture care of this technology and suggests future direction to investigate its potential benefits.
Open Reduction and Internal Fixation of Scapula Fractures in a Geriatric Series
Authors: Cole Peter A. , Jacobson Aaron R. , Cole Peter A.
Published: April 2015

The purpose of this small descriptive series was to report patient and injury characteristics, as well as, surgical and functional outcomes in patients aged 70 years or older, with operative scapular fracture. A retrospective review of 214 scapula fractures identified 6 consecutive geriatric patients aged 70 years or older and formed the basis for this study. Outcomes reported include surgical complications; disabilities of the arm, shoulder, and hand (DASH); range of motion (ROM); and strength assessment at the 6-month postoperative interval and final follow-up. All patients were community ambulators and 5 of the 6 patients routinely performed recreational activities that required shoulder strength and/or motion. Outcomes were attained on all patients at greater than 1 year with a mean of 23.2 months. There were no surgical complications and all fractures united. The mean ROM expressed as a percentage of contralateral ROM ranged from 82% to 100% at both 6-month and final follow-up. The mean strength expressed as a percentage of contralateral strength ranged from 63% to 82% at the 6-month follow-up and 94% to 100% at the final follow-up. The mean DASH score was 12.3 at final follow-up. Our conclusion is that operative treatment for displaced scapula fractures appears to be safe and can yield good functional results in patients aged 70 years and older.
A Novel 1.0 Mb Duplication of Chromosome 8p22-21.3 in a Patient With Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Dong Ping , Xu Qiong , An Yu , Zhou Bing-Rui , Lu Ping , Liu Ren-Chao , Xu Xiu
Published: April 2015

Autism spectrum disorders are a group of neurodevelopmental disorders with a strong genetic etiology. Cytogenetic abnormalities have been detected in 5% to 10% of the patients with autism spectrum disorders. In this study, the authors present the clinical and array-based comparative genomic hybridization evaluation of a 4-year-old male with autism spectrum disorder and mental retardation. The patient was found to carry a de novo duplication of chromosome 8p22-21.3 of 1.0 Mb as ascertained by quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and this region encompassed 3 genes including Pleckstrin and Sec7 domains-containing protein 3 (PSD3), SH2 domain-containing 4A (SH2D4A), and Chondroitin Sulfate N-Acetylgalactosaminyltransferase 1 (CSGALNACT1). This represents the smallest rearrangement of chromosome 8p as yet found in a patient with autism spectrum disorder, but the significance of this mutation is still ambiguous.
Management and outcome of mechanically ventilated patients after cardiac arrest
Authors: Sutherasan Yuda , Peñuelas Oscar , Muriel Alfonso , Vargas Maria , Frutos-Vivar Fernando , Brunetti Iole , Raymondos Konstantinos , D’Antini Davide , Nielsen Niklas , Ferguson Niall D , Böttiger Bernd W , Thille Arnaud W , Davies Andrew R , Hurtado Javier , Rios Fernando , Apezteguía Carlos , Violi Damian A , Cakar Nahit , González Marco , Du Bin , Kuiper Michael A , Soares Marco Antonio , Koh Younsuck , Moreno Rui P , Amin Pravin , Tomicic Vinko , Soto Luis , Bülow Hans-Henrik , Anzueto Antonio , Esteban Andrés , Pelosi Paolo ,   For the VENTILA GROUP
Published: April 2015

Introduction

The aim of this study was to describe and compare the changes in ventilator management and complications over time, as well as variables associated with 28-day hospital mortality in patients receiving mechanical ventilation (MV) after cardiac arrest.

Methods

We performed a secondary analysis of three prospective, observational multicenter studies conducted in 1998, 2004 and 2010 in 927 ICUs from 40 countries. We screened 18,302 patients receiving MV for more than 12 hours during a one-month-period. We included 812 patients receiving MV after cardiac arrest. We collected data on demographics, daily ventilator settings, complications during ventilation and outcomes. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to calculate odds ratios, determining which variables within 24 hours of hospital admission were associated with 28-day hospital mortality and occurrence of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and pneumonia acquired during ICU stay at 48 hours after admission.

Results

Among 812 patients, 100 were included from 1998, 239 from 2004 and 473 from 2010. Ventilatory management changed over time, with decreased tidal volumes (VT) (1998: mean 8.9 (standard deviation (SD) 2) ml/kg actual body weight (ABW), 2010: 6.7 (SD 2) ml/kg ABW; 2004: 9 (SD 2.3) ml/kg predicted body weight (PBW), 2010: 7.95 (SD 1.7) ml/kg PBW) and increased positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) (1998: mean 3.5 (SD 3), 2010: 6.5 (SD 3);P<0.001). Patients included from 2010 had more sepsis, cardiovascular dysfunction and neurological failure, but 28-day hospital mortality was similar over time (52% in 1998, 57% in 2004 and 52% in 2010). Variables independently associated with 28-day hospital mortality were: older age, PaO2<60 mmHg, cardiovascular dysfunction and less use of sedative agents. Higher VT, and plateau pressure with lower PEEP were associated with occurrence of ARDS and pneumonia acquired during ICU stay.

Conclusions

Protective mechanical ventilation with lower VTand higher PEEP is more commonly used after cardiac arrest. The incidence of pulmonary complications decreased, while other non-respiratory organ failures increased with time. The application of protective mechanical ventilation and the prevention of single and multiple organ failure may be considered to improve outcome in patients after cardiac arrest.
A comprehensive method to develop a checklist to increase safety of intra-hospital transport of critically ill patients
Authors: Brunsveld-Reinders Anja H , Arbous M Sesmu , Kuiper Sander G , de Jonge Evert
Published: April 2015

Introduction

Transport of critically ill patients from the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) to other departments for diagnostic or therapeutic procedures is often a necessary part of the critical care process. Transport of critically ill patients is potentially dangerous with up to 70% adverse events occurring. The aim of this study was to develop a checklist to increase safety of intra-hospital transport (IHT) in critically ill patients.

Method

A three-step approach was used to develop an IHT checklist. First, various databases were searched for published IHT guidelines and checklists. Secondly, prospectively collected IHT incidents in the LUMC ICU were analyzed. Thirdly, interviews were held with physicians and nurses over their experiences of IHT incidents. Following this approach a checklist was developed and discussed with experts in the field. Finally, feasibility and usability of the checklist was tested.

Results

Eleven existing guidelines and five checklists were found. Only one checklist covered all three phases: pre-, during- and post-transport. Recommendations and checklist items mostly focused on the pre-transport phase. Documented incidents most frequently related to patient physiology and equipment malfunction and occurred most often during transport. Discussing the incidents with ICU physicians and ICU nurses resulted in important recommendations such as the introduction of a standard checklist and improved communication with the other departments. This approach resulted in a generally applicable checklist, adaptable for local circumstances. Feedback from nurses using the checklist were positive, the fill in time was 4.5 minutes per phase.

Conclusion

A comprehensive way to develop an intra-hospital checklist for safe transport of ICU patients to another department is described. This resulted in a checklist which is a framework to guide physicians and nurses through intra-hospital transports and provides a continuity of care to enhance patient safety. Other hospitals can customize this checklist to their own situation using the methods proposed in this paper.
Differentiation of malignant tumours from granulomas by using dynamic [18F]-fluoro-L-α-methyltyrosine positron emission tomography
Authors: Yamaguchi Aiko , Hanaoka Hirofumi , Fujisawa Yutaka , Zhao Songji , Suzue Kazutomo , Morita Akihiro , Tominaga Hideyuki , Higuchi Tetsuya , Hisaeda Hajime , Tsushima Yoshito , Kuge Yuji , Iida Yasuhiko
Published: April 2015

Background

Previous clinical studies have revealed the potential of [18F]-fluoro-L-α-methyltyrosine (18F-FAMT) for the differential diagnosis of malignant tumours from sarcoidosis. However, one concern regarding the differential diagnosis with 18F-FAMT is the possibility of false negatives given the small absolute uptake of 18F-FAMT that has been observed in some malignant tumours. The aim of this study was to evaluate a usefulness of dynamic 18F-FAMT positron emission tomography (PET) for differentiating malignant tumours from granulomas.

Methods

Rats bearing both granulomas (Mycobacterium bovis bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG)-induced) and tumours (C6 glioma cell-induced) underwent dynamic 2-deoxy-2-[18F]-fluoro-D-glucose (18F-FDG) PET and 18F-FAMT PET for 120 min on consecutive days. Time-activity curves, static images, mean standardized uptake values (SUVs) and the SUV ratios (SUVRs; calculated by dividing SUV at each time point by that of 2 min after injection) were assessed.

Results

In tumours, 18F-FAMT showed a shoulder peak immediately after the initial distribution followed by gradual clearance compared with granulomas. Although the mean SUV in the tumours (1.00 ± 0.10) was significantly higher than that in the granulomas (0.88 ± 0.12), a large overlap was observed. In contrast, the SUVR was markedly higher in tumours than in granulomas (50 min/2 min, 0.72 ± 0.06 and 0.56 ± 0.05, respectively) with no overlap. The dynamic patterns, SUVR, and mean SUV of 18F-FDG in the granulomas were comparable to those in the tumours.

Conclusions

Dynamic 18F-FAMT and SUVR analysis might compensate for the current limitations and help in improving the diagnostic accuracy of 18F-FAMT.
The bud midge Prodiplosis longifila: Damage characteristics, potential distribution and presence on a new crop host in Colombia
Authors: Hernandez Luis M , Guzman Yoan C , Martínez-Arias Adriana , Manzano Maria R , Selvaraj John J
Published: April 2015

The Dipteran Prodiplosis longifila is a severe pest, mainly of Solanaceae, in South America and some years ago it damaged Tahiti lime crops in the United States. It is a potential invasive pest. Despite its presence in Colombia, nothing is known regarding the taxonomic identification of P. longifila or the characteristics of the damage it produces. Moreover, the current and potential distributions of this pest are unknown. To determine these factors, P. longifila was sampled in several Solanaceae- and Citrus
x
latifolia (Tahiti lime)-producing areas in Colombia. The larvae consumed tender foliage, flowers and fruits in tomato, fruits in sweet pepper, and buds in Tahiti lime. P. longifila was not found in asparagus or in potatoes. Its presence in Tahiti lime was previously unknown in Colombia. Adults recovered in the laboratory were taxonomically identified using male morphological characteristics such as the shapes of the genitalia, antenna and wing. P. longifila was found in the Andean region of Colombia. The ecological niche model for populations found in tomato suggests that P. longifila is limited in its distribution by altitude and variables associated with temperature and precipitation. The highest probability of occurrence is in areas where tomato, sweet pepper and the new host, Tahiti lime, are grown. Therefore, it is necessary to implement preventive measures, such as planting tomato materials free of P. longifila larvae, in areas where the pest is not yet present but where there is the potential for its development.
The Ethical Case for Undercounting Trans Individuals
Authors: Rohrer Megan M.
Published: April 2015

This article makes an ethical case for celebrating the undercounting of trans individuals in surveys and studies. Despite positive motivations compelling researchers to more accurately enumerate the transgender spectrum, researchers trying to quantify the trans experience should ask themselves if their personal definition of who is trans is more or less important than the identity of trans individuals living a low/nondisclosure life.
Disability Benefit Receipt and Reform: Reconciling Trends in the United Kingdom
Authors: Banks James , Blundell Richard , Emmerson Carl
Published: April 2015

The UK has enacted a number of reforms to the structure of disability benefits that has made it a major case study for other countries thinking of reform. The introduction of Incapacity Benefit in 1995 coincided with a strong decline in disability benefit expenditure, reversing previous sharp increases. From 2008 the replacement of Incapacity Benefit with Employment and Support Allowance was intended to reduce spending further. We bring together administrative and survey data over the period and highlight key differences in receipt of disability benefits by age, sex, and health. These disability benefit reforms and the trends in receipt are also put into the context of broader trends in health and employment by education and sex. We document a growing proportion of claimants in any age group with mental and behavioral disorders as their principal health condition. We also show the decline in the number of older working age men receiving disability benefits to have been partially offset by growth in the number of younger women receiving these benefits. We speculate on the impact of disability reforms on employment.
The Main Properties of Diphtheriae Causative Microorganism Circulated in Postepidemic Period from Biofilm Culture
Authors: Kharseeva G.G. , Frolova J.N. , Gerasimov V.N. , Gasretova T.D.
Published: April 2015

Task – to study the main properties toxigenic strain of Corynebacterium diphtheriae circulated in postepidemic period from biofilm culture. It was shown that Diphtheriae causative agent has the ability to biofilm formation that is accompanied by exopolysaccharide matrix formation. This combines with changes of morphologic properties (decrease of bacteria sizes), cultures properties (decrease of colonies sizes, R-S-dissociation) and antibiotic susceptibility. The most effective towards Diphtheriae infection causative microorganism are cefotaxime, gentamycin, linkomycin, kanamycin and cefazolin, because they have no changes in susceptibility of Corynebacterium diphtheria? in the biofilm structure.
Assessing Treatment Options of Congenitally Missing Lateral Incisors: Shall We Create or Eliminate the Space?
Authors: Acar Ozlem , Tuncer Duygu , Sahinoglu Zahire , Ozcirpici Ayça Arman , Arhun Neslihan
Published: April 2015

Maxillary lateral agenesis is one of the most seen developmental anomaly in population and requires esthetic and functional treatment from adolescence stage. Successful dental treatment is always the aim for dentists and patients, meaning that a patient's needs are covered in an esthetic and functional way. Several dentists deal with the management of this clinical problem because a multidisciplinary approach can solve the dental demands of patients with dental agenesis. The treatment choices are; no treatment at all and accepting the space, space closure, space opening or redistribution and prosthetic replacement. There is controversy, however, about whether missing lateral incisor spaces should be orthodontically opened or closed using permanent canines to replace the missing teeth. This review considers the possible options: space maintenance and replacement of the missing tooth with denture, bridge (conventional and adhesive), or implant or orthodontic space closure with canine modification.
Minimally Invasive Methods for Treatment of Periodontal Defects: A Case Report
Authors: Krastev Bogdan Petrov
Published: April 2015

Treatment of periodontal diseases is a complex issue because of the difficult access to the root surface. Both the surgical and the nonsurgical method have their importance and place in the treatment of periodontal diseases. Nonsurgical treatment can be used independently, as a definitive or as a preparation for the surgical treatment. Access-Open flap surgery is the gold standard for treating periodontal diseases.  Objectives: To demonstrate the possibilities of two minimally invasive methods-Minimally Invasive Surgery Technique performed with Er:YAG lazer and Regenerative Ultrasonic Periodontal Endoscopy for treating chronic periodontitis.  Methods: Female patient age 45 was diagnosed with chronic periodontitis after X-ray examination. On her second lower molars the following pathology was found Probing Pocket Depth=6mm and infraossal defects with INFRA=3mm. Tooth 47 was treated with open flap curettage with an Er:YAG laser by the Minimally Invasive Surgery Technique. Regenerative Ultrasonic Periodontal Endoscopy was performed on tooth 37. The root surfaces of 36 and 37 were manipulated under indirect visual control and continuous irrigation with the help of periodontal endoscope DV2 Perioscopy System™ and ultrasonic tips EMS®, scaler Piezon Master 400®.  Results: After a period of one year the following results were achieved: 1) No bleeding on probing. 2) Probing Pocket Depth 3mm 3) Complete bone regeneration-fill 4) Less gingival recession with RUPE. Conclusions: Based on the outcome of the minimally invasive procedures, they can be recommended as suitable and alternatives to the standard nonsurgical and surgical techniques.
The Effect of Age and Gender on Calcium, Phosphorus, and Calcium-Phosphorus Ratio in the Roots of Permanent Teeth
Authors: Zaichick Vladimir , Zaichick Sofia
Published: April 2015

Objectives: The aim of the current study was to evaluate quantitatively the effect of age and gender on calcium, phosphorus, and calcium-phosphorus ratio in the roots of permanent teeth. 
Methods: Calcium (Ca) and phosphorus (P) mass fractions as well as Ca/P mass fraction ratio were estimated in intact tooth root(s) samples from apparently healthy humans, 38 women and 46 men, aged from 16 to 55 years. For Ca and P mass fractions measurements, instrumental neutron activation analysis with high resolution spectrometry of short-lived radionuclides was used. 
Results: Mean values (mean ± standard error of mean, on dry mass basis) for the investigated parameters in two age groups (16-35 and 36-55 years) of females were: Ca 300 ± 12 g/kg, P 163 ± 7 g/kg, Ca/P ratio 1.85 ± 0.07 and Ca 277 ± 8 g/kg, P 145 ± 4 g/kg, Ca/P ratio 1.94 ± 0.06, respectively. The investigated parameters in the same age groups of males were: Ca 266 ± 13 g/kg, P 143 ± 7 g/kg, Ca/P ratio 1.88 ± 0.04 and Ca 278 ± 10 g/kg, P 152 ± 6 g/kg, Ca/P ratio 1.84 ± 0.04, respectively. The mean values for Ca, P and Ca/P ratio in the tooth root(s) were within a very wide range of reference data for dentin and close to their median. 
Conclusions: A tendency for reduced Ca and P mass fraction in roots of female teeth after 35 years of age as well as for raised Ca mass fraction in female tooth root(s) up to 35 years of age as compared to male was observed.
Laser Apicoectomy with ER:YAG and Bone Xenograft Bio-Oss Collagen®. A Case Report
Authors: Krastev Bogdan Petrov
Published: April 2015

Main problem in apicoectomy procedures is the choice of access and flap, which determines the prognosis of the affected tooth. An additional complication is the presence of chronic periodontitis and increased tooth mobility. In such cases it is important to maintain the free marginal tissues and to do minimal trauma. 
Aim: To show the possibilities of the Er:YAG laser for treatment of apical lesions in a tooth with chronic periodontitis. Materials and
Methods: Patient age 35 with moderate to severe chronic periodontitis, and a persistent cyst at tooth 22 was examined. After performing nonsurgical periodontal treatment apicoectomy was scheduled. A semilunar flap with vertical incisions was elevated 3mm from the gingival margin with a blade. All other procedures were performed with the help of Er:YAG laser in modes (release incision, bone remodeling, granulation tissue ablation, apex cutting). No retrograde filling was done. The cyst cavity was filled with Bio-Oss collagen® (Geistlich®, USA). 
Results: In the post treatment period a flap dehiscence occurred due to: loose sutures, necrosis, infection. After a period of one year the X-ray showed complete bone filling of the defect with light lucidity at the sight of the dehiscence, which might be merited to the epithelial tissue proliferation towards the defect which resulted in forming bone with lesser density. After one year the tooth is preserved with mobility grade 1. 
Discussion: The apicoectomy technique performed with Er:YAG is reliable and kept the soft tissues intact and also the tooth in spite of the severity of the chronic periodontitis. The technique can be recommended in similar cases.
Season of the Year should be Considered in the Interpretation of Hematology in Carthusian Broodmares
Authors: Satué K. , Gardón J.C. , Muñoz A.
Published: April 2015

This research was designed to provide data on the influence of the season on the year in the hematology of the Carthusian broodmares. Thirty-eight healthy Carthusian broodmares, aged 7-14 years were sampled during a year every two weeks. Therefore, a total of 24 blood samples were withdrawn for each animal. The following variables were measured: red blood cell count, hemoglobin concentration, packed cell volume, volumetric indexes (mean corpuscular volume, mean corpuscular hemoglobin, mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration), total white blood cell count and subtypes (neutrophils, lymphocytes, eosinophils, monocytes and basophils), platelet count and serum concentrations. Red blood cell count and packed cell volume were higher in spring. Mean corpuscular volume increased in autumn and mean corpuscular hemoglobin and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration decreased in summer and autumn. Platelet count increased in summer. The highest numbers of neutrophils, lymphocytes and eosinophils were found in spring. Serum proteins and neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio remained statistically unchanged during the study. It is concluded that there is seasonality in the hematological parameters of the Carthusian broodmares.
Outcome after conservatively managed intracapsular fractures of the femoral neck
Authors: Moulton LS , Green NL , Sudahar T , Makwana NK , Whittaker JP
Published: April 2015

Introduction

In 2012, 2.6% of hip-fracture patients in the UK were treated conservatively. There is little data on outcome for these patients. However, one study demonstrated that though 30-day mortality is higher, mortality over the rest of the year is comparable with that in surgical groups. Therefore, we assessed conservatively managed patients in our unit.

Methods

Patients with intracapsular fractures of the femoral neck treated by conservative means between 2010 and 2012 inclusive were identified. Data were collected: American Society of Anaesthesiologists (ASA) grade, Nottingham Hip Fracture Score (NHFS), mobility, mortality (30 days and one year) and pain levels.

Results

Thirty-two patients formed the study cohort. Mean age was 85.6 years. Median ASA grade was 4. Mortality at 30 days and one year was 31.3% and 56.3%, respectively. There was one case of pneumonia and one of infection. Pressure sores or venous thromboembolism were not documented. Three patients underwent surgery once their health improved. In general, mobility was decreased, but 30.8% of patients could mobilise with two aids or a frame. Only two cases had ongoing problems with pain.

Conclusions

Our data are similar to those published previously. Our patients were likely to have higher mortality data due to selection bias. Thirty-day mortality was significantly higher than the national average, but patients surviving 30 days had a prevalence of mortality similar to those managed by surgical means. Despite mobility decreasing from the pre-admission status, a considerable number of patients were free of pain and could mobilise. These data suggest that conservative management of intracapsular fractures of the femoral neck can produce acceptable results.
The spectrum of injuries resulting from posterior abdominal stab wounds: a South African experience
Authors: Kong VY , Oosthuizen GV , Clarke DL
Published: April 2015

Introduction

The spectrum of injury associated with anterior abdominal stab wounds (SWs) is well established. The literature on the spectrum of organ injury associated with SWs to the posterior abdomen, however, is limited.

Methods

We reviewed our experience of 105 consecutive patients who had established indications for laparotomy managed over a 4-year period in a high volume trauma service in South Africa.

Results

Of the 105 patients, 97 (92%) were male and the overall mean age was 24 years. Fifty-seven patients (54%) had immediate indications for laparotomy. The remaining 48 patients (46%) initially underwent active clinical observation and the indications for laparotomy became apparent during the observation period. Of the 105 laparotomies performed, 94 (90%) were positive and 11 (10%) were negative. Of the 94 positive laparotomies, 92 were therapeutic and 2 were non-therapeutic. A total of 176 organ injuries were identified: 50 (53%) of the 94 patients sustained a single organ injury while the remaining 44 (47%) sustained multiple organ injuries. The most commonly injured organs were the colon (n=63), spleen (n=21) and kidney (n=19).

Conclusions

The pattern of intra-abdominal injuries secondary to SWs to the posterior abdomen is different to that seen with the anterior abdomen. Colonic injury is most commonly encountered, followed by injuries to the spleen and kidney. Clinicians must remain vigilant because of the potential for occult injuries.
Validity and reliability of the Indonesian version of tinnitus handycap inventory
Authors: Bashiruddin Jenny E. , Alviandi Widayat , Reinaldo Alvin , Safitri Eka D. , Pitoyo Yupitri , Ranakusuma Respati W.
Published: April 2015

Background: To translate and assess the validity and reliability of the Indonesian version of Tinnitus Handycap Inventory (THI) as an psychometric instrument for evaluating the quality of life in tinnitus patients. This instrument will support the clinicians to determine the appropriate tinnitus management for them.Methods: A cross-sectional psychometric validation study was performed to assess the internal consistency, reliability and validity of the Indonesian version of THI in 50 subjective tinnitus patients at ENT outpatient clinic of Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital between May-August 2010. 25 question items of original THI were translated, back-translated and validated using the transcultural validation by WHO.Results: The validity test demonstrated a significant correlation in the emotional and the catastrophic scale whilst there was no significant correlation in the functional scale for item F2 and particularly for item F15. Nevertheless, the validity test on the functional scale showed a good result. This study also showed high internal consistency and reliability for the total scale (Cronbach-α = 0.91)Conclusion: The evaluation result indicated that the reliability of adapted Indonesian version of the THI in our study is relatively high and could be applied in clinical examination or further otolaryngology study by both specialists and general physicians.
The role of copeptin as a novel cardiovascular biomarker
Authors: Kristyagita Andy , Siswanto Bambang B.
Published: April 2015

Copeptin is a provasopressin-derived peptide, the precursor for arginine vasopressin (AVP), which is an antidiuretic hormone from the hypothalamus. Copeptin is secreted together with AVP equally as a response of AVP stimulation. While AVP’s main function is water and blood volume regulation and maintaining electrolyte homeostasis, copeptin’s function is still not fully understood. AVP, copeptin, and other vasopressinergic neuropeptides’ levels are elevated in acute stress caused by pathological conditions. Clinical use of AVP levels has many weaknesses. Copeptin can act as a replacement because of its molecular stability, easier testing methods, and faster results. For example, combination of copeptin and cardiac troponins can eliminate myocardial infarction (MI) diagnosis faster, while combined with brain-type natriuretic peptide (BNP) or its precursor can predict heart failure (HF) outcome. In cardiovascular shock, copeptin levels are elevated. As such, copeptin is a potential biomarker for MI diagnosis and predictor for HF mortality and morbidity.
Deskodetutako arrainak: atzo, gaur eta bihar.
Authors: Diaz de Cerio Oihane , Bilbao Eider
Published: April 2015

Nahiz eta genomak eta transkriptomak sekuentziatzeko metodo berriak garatu diren, ingurune urtarreko organismo askoren sekuentzia ez dugu ezagutzen oraindik. Teleosteoen kasuan, kladoaren dibertsitate handia kontuan harturik, ezagutzen ditugun arrainen %0.2aren genoma besterik ez da sekuentziatu edo sekuentziatze asmotan dago. Artikulu honen helburua, beraz, gaur egun teleosteoen sekuentzia genomikoei/transkriptomikoei buruz DNA-RNA datubaseetan dagoena laburbiltzea da, bai eta informazio honen jakintzak dakartzan onurak indartzea ere.
Roles And Satisfaction During Internship Program In Estonian Universities
Authors: Kaseorg Merike , Pukkonen Lee
Published: April 2015

This study investigates an intern as someone who is a student in training, who may be paid, but in company is a temporary employee (Tovey, 2001); internship as a supplement or complement to academic instruction in environmental science. This article reviews roles during internship and satisfaction with the internship program from two perspectives: interns from five Estonian universities and site supervisors from various companies. The data from site supervisors and interns were collected through a web-based questionnaire. Surveys were carried out during 2012-2013. The sample consists of 418 interns and 194 institutions providing internship. The study gives and overview of the situation of the internship in Estonia. The data has been discussed in the context of the related literature.
Innovation Space Of The Business Models
Authors: Bednar Richard , Slávik Štefan
Published: April 2015

The business model is a conceptual image of the operational part of the company. Methods of visualization are used for its formal description. The actual models are arranged into a typological concept that creates the prerequisites for the evaluation and examination of their potential for innovation. The innovation space of the business models has been studied based on an extensive sample of enterprises. The nature of the innovations of the business models, the limits of their innovation space and the tendencies of the development of the innovation space has been identified.
Determination Of Customer Preferences For Benefits Provided By Sales Promotion At Shopping Centres In Lithuania
Authors: Pilelienė Lina , Bakanauskas Arvydas Petras
Published: April 2015

The intensifying competition forces organizations to search for various measures which could help in persuading consumer to buy a product. Consequently, the attention to customer attraction is growing enormously. One of marketing measures used for this purpose is sales promotion. However, many measures of this marketing tool used by the companies do not attract consumers and end in failure. The article is aimed to determine customer preferences for benefits provided by sales promotion at shopping centres in Lithuania. Based on the results of questionnaire research the main conclusion is that customers of shopping centres in Lithuania are mainly driven by the utilitarian benefits of sales promotion, and are not affected by hedonic ones.
Insidious pathogen-mimicking properties of nanoparticles in triggering the lectin pathway of the complement system
Authors: Moghimi S. Moein , Wibroe Peter P. , Wu Linping , Farhangrazi Z. Shadi
Published: April 2015

The lectin pathway of the complement system is an integral component of the innate immune system recognizing pathogens through patterns of sugar moieties displayed on their surfaces and neutralizing them through an antibody-independent reaction cascade. Many engineered nanoparticles incite complement through the lectin pathway, but these nanoparticles inherently do not express surface-exposed sugars. However, the projected polymeric surface architecture of nanoparticles may transiently resemble structural motifs of peptidoglycan constituents of pathogens and trigger the lectin pathway. We discuss these issues in relation to nanomedicine design and immune safety.
Failure Rate Estimation in a Dynamic Environment
Authors: Gouno Evans , Guérineau Lise
Published: April 2015

We present a method to assess the reliability of a material operating in a dynamic environment. The dynamic environment is represented as a sequence of shocks governed by a self-exciting point process. The time-to-failure of the material is assumed to have a piecewise
exponential distribution. A Cox model is integrated to take into account the effect of the stress.
Maximum likelihood estimates of the model parameters are obtained and their properties are studied through simulated data. An application on field data is displayed. Hypothesis testing procedures for environment effect are suggested.
Within-Subject Mediation Analysis in AB/BA Crossover Designs
Authors: Josephy Haeike , Vansteelandt Stijn , Vanderhasselt Marie-Anne , Loeys Tom
Published: April 2015

Crossover trials are widely used to assess the effect of a reversible exposure on an outcome of interest. To gain further insight into the underlying mechanisms of this effect, researchers may be interested in exploring whether or not it runs through a specific intermediate variable: the mediator. Mediation analysis in crossover designs has received scant attention so far and is mostly confined to the traditional Baron and Kenny approach. We aim to tackle mediation analysis within the counterfactual framework and elucidate the assumptions under which the direct and indirect effects can be identified in
Open Science als eine Lösung der Infrastrukturkrise in der Wissenschaft
Authors: Brembs Björn
Published: April 2015

Heutzutage machen solche Forscherinnen und Forscher Karriere, die besonders viele Steuermittel für ihre Forschung ausgeben und die Ergebnisse dieser Forschung besonders gut an Ex-Wissenschaftler vermarkten, ungeachtet der Verlässlichkeit ihrer Ergebnisse. Diese historisch gewachsene Infrastruktur schadet der Wissenschaft in mehrfacher Hinsicht. Zum einen werden Steuermittel verschwendet, anstatt sie effizient einzusetzen. Zum anderen werden Wissenschaftler auf Dauerstellen berufen, deren Qualifikation nur indirekt überprüft wurde. Zum Dritten leiten die gut vermarkteten, aber weniger verlässlichen Forschungsergebnisse die Wissenschaft in die Irre und unterminieren das Vertrauen der Öffentlichkeit in den Wissenschaftsbetrieb. Eine Lösung dieser Krise wäre es, alle Zeitschriften-Abonnements aufzulösen und mit den eingesparten Mitteln eine wissenschaftlich abgesicherte, transparente und nachhaltige Infrastruktur zu implementieren, die nicht nur durch die erhöhte Zugänglichkeit und Transparenz der wissenschaftlichen Literatur deren Verlässlichkeit erhöht, sondern gleichzeitig Steuermittel einspart und dabei noch wissenschaftliche Daten und Quellcode nachhaltig archiviert und zugänglich macht.
Some Determinats of Quality of Life in Patients Suffering from Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Rashikj-Canevska Olivera , Chichevska-Jovanova Natasha
Published: April 2015

People with multiple sclerosis are faced with numerous challenges which in turn may affect the things they want to do or have a need to do. Very often, constraints caused by the disease reduce their ability to cope with and meet their responsibilities at home, at work and within a broader community transforming simple daily activities into daily frustrations.

The main goal of the research process was to present the life of persons with multiple sclerosis in the Republic of Macedonia, the problems they face every day, and the way they exceed them. We used the methods of structural, descriptive and functional analysis, as well as the method of generalization. We applied data (document) analysis, scaling and inquiry, and as a basic instrument we used a questionnaire composed of a combination of several scaling and index assessments. There was a convenient sample of the research composed of 32 persons with multiple sclerosis over the age of 18, and the results were obtained by a statistical analysis of the data and application of the combination of chi square tests, with a p<0.05 level of significance.

According to the results of the Index of disability, 47% of the people with multiple sclerosis have limited independence in providing daily activities leading up to 31% of the examinees with rare participation in the everyday social activities, the result obtained by the Frenchay Index of activities. We can conclude that the Index of disability is higher with older respondents and it is often followed by a drop of the daily activity frequency.