bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Measurement and shielding of extremely-low-frequency urban magnetic noise
Authors: Nagase Masae , Kobayashi Koichiro , Woo Taeseong , Takiyama Yoshihiro , Yamazaki Keita , Sekino Masaki
Published: August 2016

Biomagnetic measurements are affected by environmental magnetic noises emitted by various electric systems including trains and elevators. In this study, we measured low-frequency magnetic noise by using a fluxgate magnetometer at a laboratory located in an urban area and analyzed the dominant noise sources during real-world operation of these systems. Additionally, we evaluated the noise reduction effect of a small, magnetically shielded box combined with compensation coils.
Simplex approaches to develop reading competence in primary school
Authors: Di Tore Stefano , Zollo Iolanda , Todino Michele , Sibilio Maurizio
Published: August 2016

Survey results from IEA PIRLS (2011),OECD PISA (2012) and by further research conducted by the University of Salerno, have shown that the reading performance of Southern Italian students is below the national average. This worrying scenario led to a research initiative aimed at creating inclusive didactic methods and tools to aid in the development of reading competence on the basis of simplex didactics. This theoretical framework sustains our assumption that reading is an ability that does not form part of the natural development of the individual but needs to be learnt; hence is considered as an adaptive strategy (Berthoz, 2012). Therefore, simplex didactics, understood as a method based on the principles that guide the organisms' adaptation to the surrounding environment, was a natural choice. The research project is divided into four main phases: a preliminary phase, a design phase, field research, followed by the analysis and evaluation of results. It is important to highlight that the scope of this article is to present the initial phase of the research and is intended to:1. provide an analysis of the context to assess the effective need to introduce a teaching method able to face the critical situation described;2. explore possible mapping between reading competence and simplex didactics to provide teachers with initial didactic guidelines;3. introduce the research perspectives upon which the project will be developed.Keywordsreading competence; didactics; inclusion; simplexity; teacher education
Les retombées de deux projets de recherche-action impliquant une collaboration interprofessionnelle sur le développement des pratiques inclusives au secondaire
Authors: Bergeron Geneviève , Granger Nancy
Published: August 2016

This article focuses on the challenges of inclusive education in high school. More specifically, it is based on the linking of two action researches who accompany school teams in their efforts to foster learning in regular classes. The issue features challenges encountered by high school teachers and the importance of suggesting trainings for continuing education to involve interprofessional collaboration. After a brief definition of the central concepts, the methodological specificities of the two projects are explained. The core of this article demonstrates the findings on three aspects: reflexive, operatory and identity. Finally, it highlights evidence of interprofessional collaboration to sustain change in inclusive education.Keywordsinclusion; continuing education; interprofessionnal collaboration; action research
Local Pressure Application Effects on Discomfort, Temperature, and Limb Oxygenation
Authors: Games Kenneth E. , Lakin Joni M. , Quindry John C. , Weimar Wendi H. , Sefton JoEllen M.
Published: August 2016

INTRODUCTION: Despite significant investment into the development and improvement of military helicopter seat systems, military aviators continue to report seat system related pain and discomfort during prolonged missions.METHODS: Using a factorial repeated measures
design, 15 healthy subjects completed the study, in which focal pressure was applied to two locations on the sitting surfaces of the body (ischial tuberosity and middle of the posterior thigh). Pressure was applied using a purpose-built pressure application system allowing subjects to sit
in a position mimicking the sitting position in the UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter. The researchers measured pain using the Category Partitioning Scale and McGill Pain Questionnaire and vascular function using dynamic infrared thermography in the lower leg and pulse oximetry at the great toe.
Data were collected before and during a 10-min application of focal pressure applied to either the ischial tuberosity or middle of the posterior thigh and at two different pressure magnitudes (36 or 44 kPa).RESULTS: We found that during a 10-min pressure application, superficial
skin temperature increased by 0.61°C, suggesting a decreased venous return during pressure application. We found that lower extremity blood oxygenation remained unchanged during pressure application. Subjects’ reported pain increased during pressure application and was greater with
44 kPa of application compared to 36 kPa.DISCUSSION: These results support the hypothesis that locally high pressure creates symptoms of discomfort and paresthesia. Research examining the effects of local pressure application on physiological and neurological function is needed.Games
KE, Lakin JM, Quindry JC, Weimar WH, Sefton JM. Local pressure application effects on discomfort, temperature, and limb oxygenation. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2016; 87(8):697–703.
The Dose of Intravenously Transplanted Bone Marrow Stromal Cells Determines the Therapeutic Effect on Vascular Remodeling in a Rat Model of Ischemic Stroke
Authors: He Bin , Yao Qianmin , Liang Zijing , Lin Junmin , Xie Yubao , Li Shaoming , Wu Gongxiong , Yang Zhihua , Xu Pingyi
Published: August 2016

The therapeutic benefits of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cell (BM-MSC) transplantation for ischemic stroke have been extensively demonstrated. However, studies on the optimal cell dose for intravenous administration are still limited. This study aimed to determine an appropriate cell dose for BM-MSC intravenous transplantation and to investigate the effect of cell dose on vascular remodeling in a rat model of ischemic stroke. BM-MSCs at doses of 5 × 10 4 (low-dose group), 5 × 10 5 (medium-dose group), and 2 × 10 6 (high-dose group) were intravenously injected into rats at 72 h after ischemia. The therapeutic efficacy of BM-MSCs was evaluated by measuring infarct volume, vascular diameters, capillary area in the peri-infarct zone, level of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) in the peri-infarct zone, and serum vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) level at 7 days after ischemia. Compared with the low-dose and control groups, medium-dose and high-dose BM-MSC transplantation significantly reduced the volume of the infarct area, enlarged the diameters of pial vessels and the basilar artery, and increased the capillary area in the peri-infarct zone of the cerebral cortex. Furthermore, transplanted BM-MSCs elevated the expressions of bFGF in the peri-infarct zone and the serum VEGF level. Administration of 5 × 10 5 BM-MSCs is an appropriate cell dose for ischemic stroke therapy in rats. These findings may be helpful for designing future clinical trials.
Effects of Whale-Watching Vessels on Adult Male Sperm Whales Off Andenes, Norway
Authors: Cosentino A. Mel
Published: August 2016

This study investigated the effects of whale-watching vessels (WWV) on solitary sperm whales off Andenes in northern Norway. The presence of WWV did not have a significant effect on the duration of the surface and foraging dive periods or on the respiration pattern and dynamics. However,
the presence of WWV made sperm whales almost seven times more likely to perform a near-surface event (NSE). NSEs are submersions without fluking for short periods of time that take place during the surface phase. The occurrence of NSEs led to a significant increase of 75% in surface
time, which is 6 min more at the surface that were not compensated with longer foraging dives. Additionally, the occurrence of NSEs was associated with changes in the animals' respiration pattern and dynamics. Data collection concerning NSEs and respiration dynamics (both parameters assessed
here for the first time) is strongly recommended in future impact studies on this species. NSEs may be indicators of disturbance and are reasonably easy to identify, and thus identifying and better understanding the causes of this behavior have management implications.
Organic chemistry meets polymers, nanoscience, therapeutics and diagnostics
Authors: Rotello Vincent M
Published: August 2016

The atom-by-atom control provided by synthetic organic chemistry presents a means of generating new functional nanomaterials with great precision. Bringing together these two very disparate skill sets is, however, quite uncommon. This autobiographical review provides some insight into how my program evolved, as well as giving some idea of where we are going.
THE UNUSUAL GALACTIC CENTER RADIO SOURCE N3
Authors: Ludovici D. A. , Lang C. C. , Morris M. R. , Mutel R. , Mills E. A. C. , Toomey IV J. E. , Ott J.
Published: August 2016

Here, we report on new multi-wavelength radio observations of the unusual point source “N3” that appears to be located in the vicinity of the Galactic Center (GC). VLA observations between 2 and 50 GHz reveal that N3 is a compact and bright source (56 mJy at 10 GHz) with a non-thermal spectrum superimposed upon the non-thermal radio filaments (NTFs) of the Radio Arc. Our highest frequency observations place a strict upper limit of 65 × 28 mas on the size of N3. We compare our observations to those of Yusef-Zadeh & Morris and Lang et al., and conclude that N3 is variable over long timescales. Additionally, we present the detection of a compact molecular cloud located adjacent to N3 in projection. CH3CN, CH3OH, CS, HC3N, HNCO, SiO, SO, and NH3 are detected in the cloud, and most transitions have FWHM line widths of ∼20 km s−1. The rotational temperature determined from the metastable NH3 transitions ranges from 79 to 183 k depending on the transitions used. We present evidence that this molecular cloud is interacting with N3. After exploring the relationship between the NTFs, molecular cloud, and N3, we conclude that N3 likely lies within the GC. We are able to rule out the H ii region, young supernova, active star, AGN, and micro-quasar hypotheses for N3. While a micro-blazar may provide a viable explanation for N3, additional observations are needed to determine the physical counterpart of this mysterious source.
DIFFERENCES IN WATER VAPOR RADIATIVE TRANSFER AMONG 1D MODELS CAN SIGNIFICANTLY AFFECT THE INNER EDGE OF THE HABITABLE ZONE
Authors: Yang Jun , Leconte Jérémy , Wolf Eric T. , Goldblatt Colin , Feldl Nicole , Merlis Timothy , Wang Yuwei , Koll Daniel D. B. , Ding Feng , Forget François , Abbot Dorian S.
Published: August 2016

An accurate estimate of the inner edge of the habitable zone is critical for determining which exoplanets are potentially habitable and for designing future telescopes to observe them. Here, we explore differences in estimating the inner edge among seven one-dimensional radiative transfer models: two line-by-line codes (SMART and LBLRTM) as well as five band codes (CAM3, CAM4_Wolf, LMDG, SBDART, and AM2) that are currently being used in global climate models. We compare radiative fluxes and spectra in clear-sky conditions around G and M stars, with fixed moist adiabatic profiles for surface temperatures from 250 to 360 K. We find that divergences among the models arise mainly from large uncertainties in water vapor absorption in the window region (10 μm) and in the region between 0.2 and 1.5 μm. Differences in outgoing longwave radiation increase with surface temperature and reach 10–20 W m−2; differences in shortwave reach up to 60 W m−2, especially at the surface and in the troposphere, and are larger for an M-dwarf spectrum than a solar spectrum. Differences between the two line-by-line models are significant, although smaller than among the band models. Our results imply that the uncertainty in estimating the insolation threshold of the inner edge (the runaway greenhouse limit) due only to clear-sky radiative transfer is ≈10% of modern Earth’s solar constant (i.e., ≈34 W m−2 in global mean) among band models and ≈3% between the two line-by-line models. These comparisons show that future work is needed that focuses on improving water vapor absorption coefficients in both shortwave and longwave, as well as on increasing the resolution of stellar spectra in broadband models.
TIDALLY INDUCED BARS OF GALAXIES IN CLUSTERS
Authors: Łokas Ewa L. , Ebrová Ivana , Pino Andrés del , Sybilska Agnieszka , Athanassoula E. , Semczuk Marcin , Gajda Grzegorz , Fouquet Sylvain
Published: August 2016

Using N-body simulations, we study the formation and evolution of tidally induced bars in disky galaxies in clusters. Our progenitor is a massive, late-type galaxy similar to the Milky Way, composed of an exponential disk and a Navarro-Frenk-White dark matter halo. We place the galaxy on four different orbits in a Virgo-like cluster and evolve it for 10 Gyr. As a reference case, we also evolve the same model in isolation. Tidally induced bars form on all orbits soon after the first pericenter passage and survive until the end of the evolution. They appear earlier, are stronger and longer, and have lower pattern speeds for tighter orbits. Only for the tightest orbit are the properties of the bar controlled by the orientation of the tidal torque from the cluster at pericenter. The mechanism behind the formation of the bars is the angular momentum transfer from the galaxy stellar component to its halo. All of the bars undergo extended periods of buckling instability that occur earlier and lead to more pronounced boxy/peanut shapes when the tidal forces are stronger. Using all simulation outputs of galaxies at different evolutionary stages, we construct a toy model of the galaxy population in the cluster and measure the average bar strength and bar fraction as a function of clustercentric radius. Both are found to be mildly decreasing functions of radius. We conclude that tidal forces can trigger bar formation in cluster cores, but not in the outskirts, and thus can cause larger concentrations of barred galaxies toward the cluster center.
INWARD RADIAL MIXING OF INTERSTELLAR WATER ICES IN THE SOLAR PROTOPLANETARY DISK
Authors: Vacher Lionel G. , Marrocchi Yves , Verdier-Paoletti Maximilien J. , Villeneuve Johan , Gounelle Matthieu
Published: August 2016

The very wide diversity of asteroid compositions in the main belt suggests significant material transport in the solar protoplanetary disk and hints at the presence of interstellar ices in hydrated bodies. However, only a few quantitative estimations of the contribution of interstellar ice in the inner solar system have been reported, leading to considerable uncertainty about the extent of radial inward mixing in the solar protoplanetary disk 4.56 Ga ago. We show that the pristine CM chondrite Paris contains primary Ca-carbonates whose O-isotopic compositions require an 8%–35% contribution from interstellar water. The presence of interstellar water in Paris is confirmed by its bulk D/H isotopic composition that shows significant D enrichment (D/H = (167 ± 0.2) × 10−6) relative to the mean D/H of CM chondrites ((145 ± 3) × 10−6) and the putative D/H of local CM water ((82 ± 1.5) × 10−6). These results imply that (i) efficient radial mixing of interstellar ices occurred from the outer zone of the solar protoplanetary disk inward and that (ii) chondrites accreted water ice grains from increasing heliocentric distances in the solar protoplanetary disk.
Aquatic Insects from the Caatinga: checklists and diversity assessments of Ubajara (Ceará State) and Sete Cidades (Piauí State) National Parks, Northeastern Brazil
Authors: Takiya Daniela , Santos Allan Paulo , Pinto Ângelo , Henriques-Oliveira Ana Lucia , Carvalho Alcimar , Sampaio Brunno , Clarkson Bruno , Moreira Felipe , Avelino-Capistrano Fernanda , Gonçalves Inês , Cordeiro Isabelle , Câmara Josenir , Barbosa Julianna , de Souza W. Rafael , Rafael José Albertino
Published: August 2016

Diversity and distribution of Neotropical aquatic insects is still poorly known, with many species to be recorded and many others to be described, due to the small number of taxonomists and sparse faunistic studies. This knowledge is especially poor in the Caatinga Domain in Northeastern Brazil, even though, this region may have played an important historical role in the spatial evolution of faunas of forested areas in northern South America.

Aquatic insect checklists of 96 species from Parque Nacional de Ubajara (Ceará State, Brazil) and 112 species from Parque Nacional de Sete Cidades (Piauí State, Brazil) are presented, representing the following taxa: Elmidae, Epimetopidae, Hydrophilidae, and Torridincolidae (Coleoptera), Hemerodromiinae (Diptera: Empididae), Ephemeroptera, Gerromorpha and Nepomorpha (Hemiptera), Odonata, Plecoptera, and Trichoptera. Because of the scarce number of biological inventories in Northeastern Brazil, several new distributional records (of species, genera, and families) for Brazil, Northeastern Brazil, and Ceará and Piauí states are provided. In addition, several undescribed species were detected, being 26 from Ubajara and 20 from Sete Cidades. Results represent a significant increase to the known fauna of these states, ranging from 13%-70% increase for Ceará and 41% to 91% increase for Piauí. Although both parks are relatively close to each other and within the Caatinga domain, their aquatic fauna display a very high complementarity (89% species), possibly due to structural differences of water bodies sampled in each park. Rarefaction curves based on quantitative light trap samples suggest a much higher expected species richness of aquatic insects at Sete Cidades than at Ubajara National Park. Discussion on biogeographical affinities of this sample of the Caatinga fauna is provided.
GuiaTreeKey, a multi-access electronic key to identify tree genera in French Guiana
Authors: Engel Julien , Brousseau Louise , Baraloto Christopher
Published: August 2016

The tropical rainforest of Amazonia is one of the most species-rich ecosystems on earth, with an estimated 16000 tree species. Due to this high diversity, botanical identification of trees in the Amazon is difficult, even to genus, often requiring the assistance of parataxonomists or taxonomic specialists. Advances in informatics tools offer a promising opportunity to develop user-friendly electronic keys to improve Amazonian tree identification.

Here, we introduce an original multi-access electronic key for the identification of 389 tree genera occurring in French Guiana terra-firme forests, based on a set of 79 morphological characters related to vegetative, floral and fruit characters. Its purpose is to help Amazonian tree identification and to support the dissemination of botanical knowledge to non-specialists, including forest workers, students and researchers from other scientific disciplines.

The electronic key is accessible with the free access software Xper², and the database is publicly available on figshare: https://figshare.com/articles/GuiaTreeKey/2682550 (doi: 10.6084/m9.figshare.2682550).
Gaps in Addressing Cardiovascular Risk in Rheumatoid Arthritis: Assessing Performance Using Cardiovascular Quality Indicators
Authors: Barber Claire E.H. , Esdaile John M. , Martin Liam O. , Faris Peter , Barnabe Cheryl , Guo Selynne , Lopatina Elena , Marshall Deborah A.
Published: August 2016

Objective.

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a major comorbidity for patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). This study sought to determine the performance of 11 recently developed CVD quality indicators (QI) for RA in clinical practice.

Methods.

Medical charts for patients with RA (early disease or biologic-treated) followed at 1 center were retrospectively reviewed. A systematic assessment of adherence to 11 QI over a 2-year period was completed. Performance on the QI was reported as a percentage pass rate.

Results.

There were 170 charts reviewed (107 early disease and 63 biologic-treated). The most frequent CVD risk factors present at diagnosis (early disease) and biologic start (biologic-treated) included hypertension (26%), obesity (25%), smoking (21%), and dyslipidemia (15%). Performance on the CVD QI was highly variable. Areas of low performance (< 10% pass rates) included documentation of a formal CVD risk assessment, communication to the primary care physician (PCP) that patients with RA were at increased risk of CVD, body mass index documentation and counseling if overweight, communication to a PCP about an elevated blood pressure, and discussion of risks and benefits of antiinflammatories in patients at CVD risk. Rates of diabetes screening and lipid screening were 67% and 69%, respectively. The area of highest performance was observed for documentation of intent to taper corticosteroids (98%–100% for yrs 1 and 2, respectively).

Conclusion.

Gaps in CVD risk management were found and highlight the need for quality improvements. Key targets for improvement include coordination of CVD care between rheumatology and primary care, and communication of increased CVD risk in RA.
Severe Brachial Plexus Injuries in American Football
Authors: Daly Charles A. , Payne S. Houston , Seiler John G.
Published: August 2016

This article reports a series of severe permanent brachial plexus injuries in American football players. The authors describe the mechanisms of injury and outcomes from a more contemporary treatment approach in the form of nerve transfer tailored to the specific injuries sustained. Three cases of nerve transfer for brachial plexus injury in American football players are discussed in detail. Two of these patients regained functional use of the extremity, but 1 patient with a particularly severe injury did not regain significant function. Brachial plexus injuries are found along a spectrum of brachial plexus stretch or contusion that includes the injuries known as “stingers.” Early identification of these severe brachial plexus injuries allows for optimal outcomes with timely treatment. Diagnosis of the place of a given injury along this spectrum is difficult and requires a combination of imaging studies, nerve conduction studies, and close monitoring of physical examination findings over time. Although certain patients may be at higher risk for stingers, there is no evidence to suggest that this correlates with a higher risk of severe brachial plexus injury. Unfortunately, no equipment or strengthening program has been shown to provide a protective effect against these severe injuries. Patients with more severe injuries likely have less likelihood of functional recovery. In these patients, nerve transfer for brachial plexus injury offers the best possibility of meaningful recovery without significant morbidity. [
Orthopedics.
2016; 39(6):e1188–e1192.]
Perpendicular Iliac Screw Placement for Reinforcement of Spinopelvic Stabilization
Authors: Daniels Alan H. , DePasse J. Mason , Eltorai Adam E. M. , Palumbo Mark A.
Published: August 2016

Iliac fixation is indicated to provide spinopelvic stabilization in select cases of long segment thoracolumbar spine fusion, spinal osteotomy/realignment, trauma, and instability caused by tumor or infection. Traditional iliac fixation with iliac screws or S2 alar/iliac (S2AI) screws may provide inadequate fixation in select clinical scenarios, such as severely compromised bone quality or spinopelvic dissociation. The purpose of this article is to describe the perpendicular iliac screw technique with ipsilateral iliac crest screw plus S2AI fixation. The technique may be applied for select individuals in cases of 3-column osteotomy in the lower lumbar spine, spinopelvic dissociation (caused by trauma, neoplasm, or Charcot arthropathy), and failure of previous iliac fixation and when anatomic constraints limit standard iliac screw or S2AI screw placement. [
Orthopedics.
2016; 39(6):e1209–e1212.]
Vocal gatherings of Blackcaps Sylvia atricapilla in olive trees on a Greek island
Authors: Cheke Anthony S. , Ashcroft Ruth E.
Published: August 2016

Migratory Blackcaps in Amorgos collect to feed in unseasonably fruiting olives in March and produce a chorus of subsong. The possible function of this behaviour is briefly discussed.
Population expansion of the Hoopoe Upupa epops in Silesia, SW Poland
Authors: Kopij Grzegorz
Published: August 2016

A total of 258 breeding pairs of the Hoopoe were recorded in Silesia (c. 42,000 km2), SW Poland, during the years 2004- 2008. This is almost twice more than during the years 1978-1987 (136 pairs). This increase was rather unexpected. After a transformation in the agriculture, which took place in Poland in the 1990’s, large areas of meadows and pastures, which constitute main foraging grounds of the Hoopoe, have been abandoned and cattle faming has been greatly reduced. However, climate changes (warming effect), which were recorded in this region in meantime, could have been in other way conducive for this species.
First-in-Human Phase 1 Trial of Agarose Beads Containing Murine RENCA Cells in Advanced Solid Tumors
Authors: Smith Barry H. , Parikh Tapan , Andrada Zoe P. , Fahey Thomas J. , Berman Nathaniel , wiles Madeline , Nazarian Angelica , Thomas Joanne , Arreglado Anna , Akahoho Eugene , wolf David J. , Levine Daniel M. , Parker Thomas S. , Gazda Lawrence S. , Ocean Allyson J.
Published: August 2016

Purpose

Agarose macrobeads containing mouse renal adenocarcinoma cells (RMBs) release factors, suppressing the growth of cancer cells and prolonging survival in spontaneous or induced tumor animals, mediated, in part, by increased levels of myocyte-enhancing factor (MEF2D) via EGFR-and AKT-signaling pathways. The primary objective of this study was to determine the safety of RMBs in advanced, treatment-resistant metastatic cancers, and then its efficacy (survival), which is the secondary objective.

Methods

Thirty-one patients underwent up to four intraperitoneal implantations of RMBs (8 or 16 macrobeads/kg) via laparoscopy in this single-arm trial (FDA BB-IND 10091; NCT 00283075). Serial physical examinations, laboratory testing, and PET-CT imaging were performed before and three months after each implant.

Results

RMBs were well tolerated at both dose levels (mean 660.9 per implant). AEs were (Grade 1/2) with no treatment-related SAEs.

Conclusion

The data support the safety of RMB therapy in advanced-malignancy patients, and the preliminary evidence for their potential efficacy is encouraging. A Phase 2 efficacy trial is ongoing.
Группы гомологий пространств нерезультантных систем квадратичных полиномов в $\mathbb R^3$
Authors: Vassiliev Victor Anatolievich
Published: August 2016

Вычисляются рациональные гомологии пространств нерезультантных (т.е. имеющих только тривиальные общие нули) систем однородных полиномов степени 2 в $\mathbb R^3$.
Библиография: 20 наименований.
Longevity of Genotype-Specific Immune Responses to Plasmodium falciparum Merozoite Surface Protein 1 in Kenyan Children from Regions of Different Malaria Transmission Intensity
Authors: Bowman Natalie M. , Juliano Jonathan J. , Snider Cynthia J. , Kharabora Oksana , Meshnick Steven R. , Vulule John , John Chandy C. , Moormann Ann M.
Published: August 2016

Naturally acquired immunity to Plasmodium falciparum presents a changing landscape as malaria control programs and vaccine initiatives are implemented. Determining which immunologic indicators remain surrogates of past infection, as opposed to mediators of protection, led us to compare stability of immune responses across regions with divergent malaria transmission intensities. A repeat cross-sectional study of Kenyan children from a malaria-holoendemic area and an epidemic-prone area was used to examine longitudinal antibody and interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) responses to the 3D7 and FVO variants of merozoite surface protein 1 (MSP1). Antibodies to MSP1 were common in both study populations and did not significantly wane over a 21-month time period. IFN-γ responses were less frequent and rapidly disappeared in children after a prolonged period of no malaria transmission. Antibody and IFN-γ responses rarely correlated with each other; however, MSP1-specific IFN-γ response correlated with lack of concurrent P. falciparum parasitemia of the same genotype, though only statistically significantly in the malaria-holoendemic region (odds ratio = 0.31, 95% confidence interval = 0.12–0.84). This study affirms that antimalarial antibodies are informative for evaluation of history of malaria exposure within individuals, whereas cell-mediated immunity, though short lived under natural exposure conditions, might provide an assessment of recent infection and protection from parasitemia.
Occupational Therapy Education Research: Results of a National Survey
Authors: Thomas Aliki , Bossers Ann , Lee Michael , Lysaght Rosemary
Published: August 2016

OBJECTIVE. Despite a strong tradition of education scholarship in occupational therapy, no systematic evaluation of the amount and nature of research in this arena, or its associated challenges, has been conducted. This study examined the scope and range of education-focused research conducted in Canada and identified perceived supports and barriers for this area of inquiry.

METHOD. An online survey was sent to faculty of all 14 Canadian occupational therapy programs. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize areas of study focus, and qualitative thematic analysis captured respondents’ perceptions of personal and environmental factors influencing their engagement in education research.

RESULTS. Respondents (n = 47) reported engagement in education scholarship spanning more than 20 focus areas, often with limited resources.

CONCLUSION. Strategies are proposed to promote the viability of education research in occupational therapy and to improve resources and other supports for this type of research.
Occupational Therapy Wellness Program: Youth and Parent Perspectives
Authors: Kugel Julie , Hemberger Crystal , Krpalek Dragana , Javaherian-Dysinger Heather
Published: August 2016

OBJECTIVE. In this study, we explored the impact of an occupational therapy wellness program on daily habits and routines through the perspectives of youth and their parents.

METHOD. Data were collected through semistructured interviews with children and their parents, the Pizzi Healthy Weight Management Assessment©, and program activities.

RESULTS. Three themes emerged from the interviews: Program Impact, Lessons Learned, and Time as a Barrier to Health. The most common areas that both youth and parents wanted to change were time spent watching television and play, fun, and leisure time. Analysis of activity pie charts indicated that the youth considerably increased active time in their daily routines from Week 1 to Week 6 of the program.

CONCLUSION. An occupational therapy program focused on health and wellness may help youth and their parents be more mindful of their daily activities and make health behavior changes.
Subclinical atherosclerosis in young Thai adults with juvenile-onset systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Pattrakornkul Nalinee , Pruangprasert Patamakom , Chanthong Prakul , Chawanasuntorapoj Ratana , Pattaragarn Anirut
Published: August 2016

Background

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in adult patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Increased risk of CVD and atherosclerosis has been demonstrated in children with SLE. However, evidence of atherosclerosis in adults with juvenile-onset SLE is limited and their additional CVD risk factors unclear.

Objectives

To investigate the presence of subclinical atherosclerosis in young Thai adults with juvenile-onset SLE, and evaluate atherosclerotic risk factors.

Methods

We recruited a cohort of patients aged 18-40 years who had been diagnosed SLE before the age of 18 years for this observational study. Patients with chronic kidney disease stage IV or V, alcoholism, chronic liver disease, or life threatening illness were excluded. Common carotid intima-media thickness (CCIMT) was measured. Clinical and laboratory parameters, treatment, and SLE-related factors, which could be risk factors for atherosclerosis and classic risk factors were obtained.

Results

We enrolled 29 patients (24 female). Their mean age was 25.1 years and mean disease duration 11.3 years. The age of participants, persistent proteinuria and use of cyclosporin correlated with increased CCIMT by multivariable analysis (P = 0.02, 0.02, and 0.03, respectively). These patients had significantly abnormal CCIMT when compared with a healthy population (mean 690 (SD 150) μm versus mean 447 (SD 76) μm, respectively; P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Subclinical atherosclerosis, identified by abnormal CCIMT, appears in young adults with juvenile-onset SLE. The CCIMT abnormality progresses with increasing age, and persistent proteinuria and use of cyclosporin appears to increase the risk for atherosclerosis.
Internal Colony—Are You Sure? Defining, Theorizing, Organizing Appalachia
Authors: Fisher Steve , Smith Barbara Ellen
Published: August 2016

Despite its critics, the internal colony framework has shown remarkable resilience over the years. Successive generations of activists and scholars have targeted “outside interests” as the chief culprits in regional impoverishment, exploitation, and stereotyping. The concentration of land, for example, in the hands of those who reside outside the region seems, by definition, to represent a form of dispossession that must account for the poverty of many who live here. But is the fact that owners (of land, capital, major media outlets, etc.) are typically not from Appalachia the decisive factor that explains regional degradation? As the need for major economic transitions within Appalachia, perhaps especially the coalfields, becomes more widely accepted, questions about how to define and theorize the past in order to overcome its legacies and organize toward brighter futures become more urgent. Does “internal colony” adequately clarify the context and aims of our struggle? Is ridding the region of outsider ownership and control our central organizing goal? If not, what is? This roundtable explores such questions in the hope of contributing to insights about Appalachia’s past as well as its future.
A case of positive pregnancy test in a sexually inactive solid organ transplant recipient -- can human chorionic gonadotropin be transmitted through solid organ transplantation?
Authors: Al-Badri Mina , Reddy Kunam , David Paru , Heilman Raymond , Snozek Christine , Vegunta Suneela
Published: August 2016

A 21-year-old female with end stage renal disease underwent a non-related renal transplantation from a deceased pregnant donor. The recipient had a negative serum pregnancy test prior to her surgery. However postoperatively, a rise in her serum human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) level, which lasted several days, was documented. Solid organ transplantation is known to transmit various infections, malignant cells and antibodies from donor to recipient but no previous reports described transmission of hCG. This case report highlights the importance of considering this possibility when managing post-transplantation hormonal disturbances. Further research is warranted to evaluate the different mechanisms through which transmission occurs between donor and recipient.
Chest-Pain Consultation System Based on Fuzzy Semantic Rules
Authors: Al-Hamadani Baydaa
Published: August 2016

Chest pain is considered to be one of the most important prognoses to diagnose several heart and chest diseases. This domain of knowledge suffers from vague information especially when non specialist people interact with it. This paper presents a consultation system to be used by patients with chest pain or discomfort in order to diagnose the cause of the pain and provide suitable recommendations. The system consists of two subsystems. Determining the caused of the pain is the first stage based on the fuzzy concepts and fuzzy OWL to deal with vague information. Depending on the result of the first stage, the second stage provides recommendations to be accomplished by the patient to save their lives according to SWRL and Ontology engineering. The system has been tested using 55 patients to validate its sensitivity and specificity. The results were compared with the specialists’ opinion and the results emphasized the efficiency and the reliability of the system.
Refinement for Ocular Ultrasound Images Quality by Utilizing Combination of Enhancement Techniques
Authors: Hussein Zinah Rajab , Hussein Zaid Rajab
Published: August 2016

Ultrasound has been used as a diagnostic modality for many intraocular diseases, due its safety, low cost, real time and wide availability. Unfortunately, ultrasound images suffer from speckle artifact that are tissue dependent. In this work, we will offer a method to reduce speckle noise and improve ultrasound image to raise the human diagnostic performance. This method combined undecimated wavelet transform with a wavelet coefficient mapping function: where UDWT used to eliminate the noise and a wavelet coefficient mapping function used to enhance the contrast of denoised images obtained from the first component. This methods can be used not only as a means for improving visual quality of medical images but also as a preprocessing module for computer-aided detection/diagnosis systems to improve the performance of screening and detecting regions of interest in images. The proposed method is experimentally evaluated via 60 ultrasound images of eye. It is demonstrated that the proposed method can further improve the image quality of ocular ultrasound; the results reveal the effectiveness and superiority of the proposed method.
Climatology of Heavy Orographic Rainfall Induced by Tropical Cyclones over Madagascar: From Synoptic to Mesoscale Perspectives
Authors: Arivelo Tatiana A. , Lin Yuh-Lang
Published: August 2016

Variability of and generation mechanisms for Madagascar rainfall are studied by conducting climatological, synoptic and mesoscale analyses. It is found the rainfall variability is highly sensitive to seasons with high variability in summer (Nov-Apr). The rainfall in summer is controlled by the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) and orographic rainfall associated with tropical cyclones (TCs), while the rainfall in winter (May-Oct) is controlled by trade winds and local orographic rainfall along the eastern coast. Synoptic analysis reveals that major climate variations in summer are associated with ITCZ position, which is closely related to TC genesis locations and quasi-biennial oscillation (QBO). Linkages between El-Niño Southern Oscillation Index (ENSO) and Southern Oscillation Index (SOI) are identified as the cause of inconsistent dry or wet summers. Mesoscale analysis depicts the importance of the orographic effects on prevailing wind, which are controlled by the orography in both seasons. In winter, the prevailing trade winds over the Southwest Indian Ocean are from the east and are split to the north and south when it impinges on Malagasy Mountains. On the other hand, in summer the prevailing easterlies are weaker leading to the production of lee vortices, in addition to the flow splitting upstream of the mountain. Thus, the flow is classified into two regimes: (a) flow-over regime with no lee vortices under high Froude number (Fr=1.2-1.8) flow, and (b) flow-around regime with lee vortices under low Fr (=0.88-1.16) flow. A case study of TC Domoina (1984) indicates that the long-lasting heavy rainfall was induced by the strong orographic blocking of Madagascar. The shorter-term (e.g., 2 days) heavy orographic precipitation is characterized by large VH ∙Ñh which is composed by two common ingredients, namely a strong low-level wind normal to the mountain (VH) and a steep mountain slope (∇h).
Geochemistry of Ultramafic to Mafic Rocks in the Norwegian Lapland: Inferences on Mantle Sources and Implications for Diamond Exploration
Authors: Kepezhinskas Pavel K. , Eriksen Glenn M.D. , Kepezhinskas Nikita P.
Published: August 2016

Geology of the Norwegian Lapland is dominated by diverse Archean crystalline basement complexes superimposed with Proterozoic greenstone belts. Isotopic dating of detrital zircons from basement gneisses in the Kirkenes area establishes presence of Early Archean (3.69 Ga) crustal component as well as three major episodes of crustal growth at 3.2 Ga, 2.7-2.9 Ga and 2.5 Ga. Precambrian terranes are intruded by ultramafic-mafic dikes and sills that range in composition from komatiites and ultramafic-mafic lamprophyres to high-Mg basalts and low-Ti subalkaline basalts. Geochemical characteristics of these rocks fall into three principal groups: 1) enriched compositions with high Nd, Nb, Hf, Zr and Th concentrations and elevated La/Th and Nb/Th coupled with low La/Nb, Ba/Nb and U/Nb ratios; 2) compositions depleted in Th, Hf and Nb together with low LREE/HFSE (such as La/Nb) and LILE/HFSE (such as Ba/Nb and U/Nb) ratios; 3) transitional group clearly identified by marked depletions in Ti, Nb and Ta contents coupled with enrichment in Th and U and other large-ion lithophile elements (LILE). These geochemical characteristics are interpreted within the framework of two principal source models: 1) derivation of parental ultramafic-mafic melts from multiple mantle sources (depleted to enriched) inherited from Archaean lithospheric tectonics and 2) a single primitive mantle source which underwent several depletion and enrichment episodes, at least partially associated with subduction zone processes. Subduction modification of depleted lithospheric mantle was assisted by accretion of subducted sediment to depleted mantle source at Archean, Proterozoic or Early Paleozoic convergent margin. Alkaline ultramafic rocks such as lamprophyres and mica picrites display geochemical characteristics supportive of their origin within stability field of diamond in a deep mantle beneath Norwegian Arctic margin which, together with other lithospheric characteristics, suggests its high potential for hosting economic diamond mineralization.
Detecting Buried Human Bodies Using Ground-Penetrating Radar
Authors: Widodo Widodo , Aditama Iqbal F. , Syaifullah Khalid , J. Mahya Muthi’a , Hidayat M.
Published: August 2016

Being located at the dense tectonic activity area, Indonesia has to cope with the constant risk of earthquakes. High frequency of earthquakes occurrence causes the crust instability and leads into another natural disaster such as landslides. Sometimes, the landslide avalanches are covering the high populated area destroying buildings and causing victims. Unfortunately, the treatment for the affected building and landslide victims searching are still using conventional methods. The purpose of this study is to detect buried human bodies using GPR method, so it can increase the effectiveness and the efficiency of disaster victims searching under the landslide avalanche. Ground-penetrating radar (GPR) is one of the geophysical methods that can be used to study shallow subsurface of the earth. GPR has been successfully used to locate grave and forensic evidence. However, more controlled research is needed to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of disaster victim detection that buried under landslides or earthquake avalanche. A detailed GPR survey was conducted in the Cikutra graveyard, Bandung, with corpses buried one week until two months before the survey. The radar profiles from this survey showed the clear amplitude contrast anomalies, emanated from the corpses. The strongest amplitude contrasts are observed at most recent grave compared to the older grave. We obtained the amplitude contrast at around 1.2 meters depth which is consistent with the depth of the buried corpses. In addition, the results of forward modeling of homogenous subsurface and corpses in subsurface will be presented.
Application of Repeated Measures Method to Compare Physical Maternal Health Index in a Follow-up Study
Authors: Shamshiri Milani Hourieh , Shakeri Nezhat , Asbaghi Taha
Published: August 2016

Maternal health is a concept indicating the health of mothers during pregnancy, childbirth and the post-partum period. Recent literature indicates that the maternal mortality rate in Iran is 23 per 100,000 live birth. For every death, 20 to 30 mothers suffer from chronic and acute illnesses arising from pregnancy and delivery; therefore, using a valid and reliable indicator will help researchers assess maternal health more precisely. In this longitudinal study, attempt has been made to compare mothers’ health status by using a subjective tool for evaluating the Physical-Maternal Health Index (P-MHI). The most common complaints made by mothers were headache, back pain, mastitis, nipple fissure, breast abscess, abdominal pain, pain in genitalia, constipation, hemorrhoids, anal fissure, urinary problems/Incontinence, fatigue, and dizziness/vertigo. The P-MHI is defined on the basis of these complaints scaling 0-100. The higher the index, the better the health status of mothers. It was administered by structured interviews with 743 participants before and during pregnancy, one week, two, four, and six months after childbirth (2010-2011). Post-natal mothers experience various problems, with back pain and fatigue being the most common. The P-MHI was at its lowest level in the first week after delivery (76 out of 100), followed by the second month (82 out of 100). The results showed that not only do mothers significantly lose their reproductive health after pregnancy, they don't attain their pre-pregnancy health status even six months after delivery (P<0.0005). The trend of the P-MHI identified when and what kind of health care is the most urgent need of post-natal mothers.
Clinical Effectiveness of Gingival Depigmentation Using Conventional Surgical Scrapping and Diode Laser Technique: A Quasi Experimental Study
Authors: Raghavendra Reddy Nagati , Ragul M. , Nabeeh Al-Qahtani , Ravi K. S. , Tikare S. , Pasupuleti Mohan Kumar
Published: August 2016

Excessive gingival pigmentation is a major aesthetic concern in modern society, though it is not a medical problem they consider it as a negative attribute. Patients with gingival hyperpigmentation usually complain and request cosmetic therapy, particularly if the pigmentation is visible during speaking and smiling. Various depigmentation methods, including burr abrasion, cryosurgery, electro-surgery, split thickness flap excision and surgical scraping techniques have been used with varying degrees of success. Recently, lasers have been used to ablate cells containing and producing the melanin pigment. The present study was undertaken to compare the clinical effectiveness and patient comfort of surgical scrapping and diode laser technique used for gingival depigmentation for a follow up period of 6 months.20 subjects participated in this split mouth study. The clinical evaluation parameters included Extent and Intensity of gingival hyperpigmentation, post-operative gingival bleeding and pain. On follow up examination at 6th month there was no statistical difference in repigmentation extent and intensity between diode laser and surgical scraping techniques. The mean pain scores for treated sites with diode laser were significantly lower than surgical scrapping technique at 24 hours (t-value=2.430, p-value=0.02). The postoperative gingival bleeding at end of procedure was significantly lower with diode laser than surgical scrapping technique (p-value=<0.0001). There was no statistical difference in postoperative re-pigmentation and clinical efficacy among the subjects between surgical scraping and diode laser technique at 6th month follow up. Diode laser technique provides better haemostasis and good visibility at the surgical site. The post-operative patient comfort is better at the surgical sites treated with diode laser than surgical scrapping method. Hence, both the techniques are used for depigmentation procedures depending on the severity and gingival biotype and patient acceptance.