bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intramedullary hemangioblastomas: surgical results in 16 patients
Authors: Joaquim Andrei F. , Ghizoni Enrico , Santos Marcos Juliano dos , Valadares Marcelo Gomes C. , Silva Felipe Soares da , Tedeschi Helder
Published: August 2015

OBJECT

Hemangioblastomas are rare, benign, highly vascularized tumors that can be found throughout the neuraxis but are mainly located in the cerebellum and in the spinal cord. Spinal hemangioblastomas can present with motor and sensory deficits, whose severity varies according to the size and location of the tumor. Resection is the best treatment option to avoid neurological deterioration. The authors report surgical results in the treatment of intramedullary hemangioblastomas and discuss the technical nuances important to achieving total resection without adding new deficits.

METHODS

A consecutive series of patients with intramedullary hemangioblastomas operated on between 2000 and 2014 by the senior author (H.T.) is presented. The functional scale proposed by McCormick was used to evaluate the patients' neurological status before and after surgery.

RESULTS

Sixteen patients were included in the study and underwent 17 surgeries. Follow-up was at least 6 months. Age at presentation varied from 13 to 58 years (mean 33.8 years). Ten patients (62.5%) were males and 6 patients (37.5%) were females. Seven (43.75%) of the 16 patients had associated von Hippel—Lindau syndrome, with hemangioblastomas also presenting in other locations. Three patients had multiple tumors in the same segment in the spinal cord, and 10 patients (62.5%) presented with cysts. According to the site of presentation, 11 tumors (68.75%) were localized at the cervical region (including the cervicomedullary junction) and 5 tumors (31.25%) at the thoracic level. Total resection was achieved in all cases, evidenced by postoperative MRI. Four patients had some functional worsening immediately after surgery. After 6 months, 1 patient had functional worsening compared with preoperative status, and 2 patients had clinical improvement. The majority of the patients remained clinically stable postoperatively.

CONCLUSIONS

Adequate knowledge of anatomy and the correct use of microsurgical techniques allowed total resection of these tumors, with minimal morbidity and maximum functional recovery. Outcome seems to be directly related to the neurological status before surgery.
Controversies in the Mechanism of Total Parenteral Nutrition Induced Pathology
Authors: Kumar Jain , Teckman Jeffery
Published: July 2015

Over 30,000 patients are permanently dependent on Total Parenteral Nutrition (TPN) for survival with several folds higher requiring TPN for a prolonged duration. Unfortunately, it can cause potentially fatal complications. TPN infusion results in impairment of gut mucosal integrity, enhanced inflammation, increased cytokine expression and trans-mucosal bacterial permeation. It also causes endotoxin associated down regulation of bile acid transporters and Parenteral Nutrition Associated Liver Disease (PNALD), which includes steatosis, disrupted glucose metabolism, disrupted lipid metabolism, cholestasis and liver failure. Despite multiple theories, its etiology and pathophysiology remains elusive and is likely multifactorial. An important cause for TPN related pathologies appears to be a disruption in the normal enterohepatic circulation due to a lack of feeding during such therapy. This is further validated by the fact that in clinical settings, once cholestasis sets in, its reversal occurs when a patient is receiving a major portion of calories enterally. There are several other postulated mechanisms including gut bacterial permeation predisposing to endotoxin associated down regulation of bile acid transporters. An additional potential mechanism includes toxicity of the TPN solution itself, such as lipid mediated hepatic toxicity. Prematurity, leading to a poor development of bile acid regulating nuclear receptors and transporters has also been implicated as a causative factor. This review presents the current controversies and research into mechanisms of TPN associated injury.
Experimental Fitting of the Re-Scaled Balje Maps for Low-Reynolds Radial Turbomachinery
Authors: Capata Roberto , Sciubba Enrico
Published: July 2015

With the increasing popularity enjoyed by ultra-micro scale turbomachinery, designers are often faced with severe challenges due to the substantial phenomenological difference between the low-Reynolds fluid-dynamics in rotating or strongly curved flows and the established knowledge acquired through decades of theoretical and experimental studies on medium and large-scale machines. The problem is complicated by the absence of an extended and reliable database that might be used for preliminary design and provide indications for scale-up or scale-down. As a result, custom-designed experimental campaigns are necessary that make the development of any new machine exceedingly costly. The situation has seen some improvement in recent years, after the publication of a sufficient number of experimental results and numerical simulations that pave the way towards a development of semi-empirical correlations. The purpose of this work is to present and discuss a preliminary and simple method to extend the currently available design maps into the small scale range (Re < 105) by introducing in the Balje charts an efficiency correction that depends on the specific speed ns. The method results in a Stodola-like formula which originates a lower-than-standard Cordier curve on the classical Balje charts. A validation with some experimental results is also presented and discussed. Though the agreement is more than satisfactory, it must be stressed that the method provides only approximate results, and thus it must be considered as an evolving temporary solution, that needs to be updated as long as larger series of (numerical or physical) experimental results become available.
Importance of Arboreal Cyanolichen Abundance to Nitrogen Cycling in Sub-Boreal Spruce and Fir Forests of Central British Columbia, Canada
Authors: Kobylinski Ania , Fredeen Arthur
Published: July 2015

The importance of N2-fixing arboreal cyanolichens to the nitrogen (N)-balance of sub-boreal interior hybrid spruce (Picea glauca × engelmannii) and subalpine fir (Abies lasiocarpa) forests was examined at field sites in central BC, Canada. Host trees were accessed by a single-rope climbing technique and foliage as well as arboreal macrolichen functional groups were sampled by branch height in eight random sample trees from each of two high (High Cyano) and two low (Low Cyano) cyanolichen abundance sites for a total of 32 sample trees. Natural abundances of stable isotopes of N (15N, 14N) and carbon (13C, 12C) were determined for aggregate host tree and epiphytic lichen samples, as well as representative samples of upper organic and soil horizons (Ae and Bf) from beneath host trees. As expected, N2-fixing cyanolichens had 2–6-fold greater N-contents than chlorolichens and a δ15N close to atmospheric N2, while foliage and chlorolichens were more depleted in 15N. By contrast, soils at all trees and sites were 15N-enriched (positive δ15N), with declining (not significant) δ15N with increased tree-level cyanolichen abundance. Lichen functional groups and tree foliage fell into three distinct groups with respect to δ13C; the tripartite cyanolichen Lobaria pulmonaria (lightest), host-tree needles (intermediate), and bipartite cyanolichens, hair (Alectoria and Bryoria spp.) and chlorolichens (heaviest). Branch height of host trees was an effective predictor of needle δ13C. Our results showed a modest positive correlation between host tree foliage N and cyanolichen abundance, supporting our initial hypothesis that higher cyanolichen abundances would elevate host tree foliar N. Further study is required to determine if high cyanolichen abundance enhances host tree and/or stand-level productivity in sub-boreal forests of central BC, Canada.
Thixotropic Supramolecular Gel Based on l-Lysine Derivatives
Authors: Suzuki Masahiro , Hayakawa Yuta , Hanabusa Kenji
Published: July 2015

The dimer l-lysine derivatives, in which two Nα,Nε-diacyl-l-lysines were crosslinked by calcium ion, were synthesized through a simply synthetic procedure and their gelation properties were examined. These compounds functioned as an organogelator; especially, the gelators possessing both a linear and a branched alkyl chains had the better organogelation ability and formed the thermally stable and rigid organogel. In addition, some organogels had a thixotropic property, which were responsive to a mechanical stimulus and reversibly underwent the gel–sol transition at room temperature. The thixotropic behavior was confirmed by visual contact and rheological experiments. Furthermore, it was assumed the mechanism of the thixotropic behavior.
MiR-30b Is Involved in the Homocysteine-Induced Apoptosis in Human Coronary Artery Endothelial Cells by Regulating the Expression of Caspase 3
Authors: Li Feng , Chen Qi , Song Xiaowei , Zhou Lei , Zhang Jianliang
Published: July 2015

Homocysteine (Hcy) is an independent risk factor for a variety of cardiovascular diseases, such as coronary heart disease, hypertension, stroke, etc. There is a close relationship between the vascular endothelial cell apoptosis and these diseases. Recent studies have shown homocysteine can induce apoptosis in endothelial cells, which may be an important mechanism for the development of theses cardiovascular diseases. Although there are several reports about how the Hcy induces apoptosis in endothelial cells, the exact mechanism is not fully understood. MicroRNAs are small, non-coding RNA. Previous studies have shown that there is a close relationship between several microRNAs and cell apoptosis. However, there are no studies about the role of microRNAs in Hcy-induced apoptosis in endothelial cells so far. In this study, we constructed the model of homocysteine-induced apoptosis in human coronary artery endothelial cells (HCAECs) and found miR-30b was significantly down-regulated by 1 mmol/L Hcy. In addition, overexpression of miR-30b can improve the Hcy-induced apoptosis in HCAECs by downregulating caspase-3 expression. Therefore, miR-30b may play an important role in Hcy-induced apoptosis in endothelial cells.
Aquaporin-Based Biomimetic Polymeric Membranes: Approaches and Challenges
Authors: Habel Joachim , Hansen Michael , Kynde Søren , Larsen Nanna , Midtgaard Søren , Jensen Grethe , Bomholt Julie , Ogbonna Anayo , Almdal Kristoffer , Schulz Alexander , Hélix-Nielsen Claus
Published: July 2015

In recent years, aquaporin biomimetic membranes (ABMs) for water separation have gained considerable interest. Although the first ABMs are commercially available, there are still many challenges associated with further ABM development. Here, we discuss the interplay of the main components of ABMs: aquaporin proteins (AQPs), block copolymers for AQP reconstitution, and polymer-based supporting structures. First, we briefly cover challenges and review recent developments in understanding the interplay between AQP and block copolymers. Second, we review some experimental characterization methods for investigating AQP incorporation including freeze-fracture transmission electron microscopy, fluorescence correlation spectroscopy, stopped-flow light scattering, and small-angle X-ray scattering. Third, we focus on recent efforts in embedding reconstituted AQPs in membrane designs that are based on conventional thin film interfacial polymerization techniques. Finally, we describe some new developments in interfacial polymerization using polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane cages for increasing the physical and chemical durability of thin film composite membranes.
Aspects of a Distinct Cytotoxicity of Selenium Salts and Organic Selenides in Living Cells with Possible Implications for Drug Design
Authors: Estevam Ethiene , Witek Karolina , Faulstich Lisa , Nasim Muhammad , Latacz Gniewomir , Domínguez-Álvarez Enrique , Kieć-Kononowicz Katarzyna , Demasi Marilene , Handzlik Jadwiga , Jacob Claus
Published: July 2015

Selenium is traditionally considered as an antioxidant element and selenium compounds are often discussed in the context of chemoprevention and therapy. Recent studies, however, have revealed a rather more colorful and diverse biological action of selenium-based compounds, including the modulation of the intracellular redox homeostasis and an often selective interference with regulatory cellular pathways. Our basic activity and mode of action studies with simple selenium and tellurium salts in different strains of Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Saccharomyces cerevisiae indicate that such compounds are sometimes not particularly toxic on their own, yet enhance the antibacterial potential of known antibiotics, possibly via the bioreductive formation of insoluble elemental deposits. Whilst the selenium and tellurium compounds tested do not necessarily act via the generation of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS), they seem to interfere with various cellular pathways, including a possible inhibition of the proteasome and hindrance of DNA repair. Here, organic selenides are considerably more active compared to simple salts. The interference of selenium (and tellurium) compounds with multiple targets could provide new avenues for the development of effective antibiotic and anticancer agents which may go well beyond the traditional notion of selenium as a simple antioxidant.
Effects of Primary Processing Techniques and Significance of Hall-Petch Strengthening on the Mechanical Response of Magnesium Matrix Composites Containing TiO2 Nanoparticulates
Authors: Meenashisundaram Ganesh , Nai Mui , Gupta Manoj
Published: July 2015

In the present study, Mg (1.98 and 2.5) vol % TiO2 nanocomposites are primarily synthesized utilizing solid-phase blend-press-sinter powder metallurgy (PM) technique and liquid-phase disintegrated melt deposition technique (DMD) followed by hot extrusion. Microstructural characterization of the synthesized Mg-TiO2 nanocomposites indicated significant grain refinement with DMD synthesized Mg nanocomposites exhibiting as high as ~47% for 2.5 vol % TiO2 NPs addition. X-ray diffraction studies indicated that texture randomization of pure Mg depends not only on the critical amount of TiO2 NPs added to the Mg matrix but also on the adopted synthesis methodology. Irrespective of the processing technique, theoretically predicted tensile yield strength of Mg-TiO2 nanocomposites was found to be primarily governed by Hall-Petch mechanism. Among the synthesized Mg materials, solid-phase synthesized Mg 1.98 vol % TiO2 nanocomposite exhibited a maximum tensile fracture strain of ~14.5%. Further, the liquid-phase synthesized Mg-TiO2 nanocomposites exhibited higher tensile and compression properties than those primarily processed by solid-phase synthesis. The tensile-compression asymmetry values of the synthesized Mg-TiO2 nanocomposite was found to be lower than that of pure Mg with solid-phase synthesized Mg 1.98 vol % TiO2 nanocomposite exhibiting as low as 1.06.
Microwave-Assisted Hydrothermal Rapid Synthesis of Calcium Phosphates: Structural Control and Application in Protein Adsorption
Authors: Cai Zhu-Yun , Peng Fan , Zi Yun-Peng , Chen Feng , Qian Qi-Rong
Published: July 2015

Synthetic calcium phosphate (CaP)-based materials have attracted much attention in the biomedical field. In this study, we have investigated the effect of pH values on CaP nanostructures prepared using a microwave-assisted hydrothermal method. The hierarchical nanosheet-assembled hydroxyapatite (HAP) nanostructure was prepared under weak acidic conditions (pH 5), while the HAP nanorod was prepared under neutral (pH 7) and weak alkali (pH 9) condition. However, when the pH value increases to 11, a mixed product of HAP nanorod and tri-calcium phosphate nanoparticle was obtained. The results indicated that the pH value of the initial reaction solution played an important role in the phase and structure of the CaP. Furthermore, the protein adsorption and release performance of the as-prepared CaP nanostructures were investigated by using hemoglobin (Hb) as a model protein. The sample that was prepared at pH = 11 and consisted of mixed morphologies of nanorods and nanoprisms showed a higher Hb protein adsorption capacity than the sample prepared at pH 5, which could be explained by its smaller size and dispersed structure. The results revealed the relatively high protein adsorption capacity of the as-prepared CaP nanostructures, which show promise for applications in various biomedical fields such as drug delivery and protein adsorption.
A Nano-Thin Film-Based Prototype QCM Sensor Array for Monitoring Human Breath and Respiratory Patterns
Authors: Selyanchyn Roman , Wakamatsu Shunichi , Hayashi Kenshi , Lee Seung-Woo
Published: July 2015

Quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) sensor array was developed for multi-purpose human respiration assessment. The sensor system was designed to provide feedback for human respiration. Thorough optimization of measurement conditions: air flow, temperature in the QCM chamber, frequency measurement rate, and electrode position regarding to the gas flow—was performed. As shown, acquisition of respiratory parameters (rate and respiratory pattern) could be achieved even with a single electrode used in the system. The prototype system contains eight available QCM channels that can be potentially used for selective responses to certain breath chemicals. At present, the prototype machine is ready for the assessment of respiratory functions in larger populations in order to gain statistical validation. To the best of our knowledge, the developed prototype is the only respiratory assessment system based on surface modified QCM sensors.
Mechanical and Electrical Characterization of Piezoelectric Artificial Cochlear Device and Biocompatible Packaging
Authors: Jung Youngdo , Kwak Jun-Hyuk , Kang Hanmi , Kim Wan , Hur Shin
Published: July 2015

This paper presents the development of a piezoelectric artificial cochlea (PAC) device capable of analyzing vibratory signal inputs and converting them into electrical signal outputs without an external power source by mimicking the function of human cochlea within an audible frequency range. The PAC consists of an artificial basilar membrane (ABM) part and an implantable packaged part. The packaged part provides a liquid environment through which incoming vibrations are transmitted to the membrane part. The membrane part responds to the transmitted signal, and the local area of the ABM part vibrates differently depending on its local resonant frequency. The membrane was designed to have a logarithmically varying width from 0.97 mm to 8.0 mm along the 28 mm length. By incorporating a micro-actuator in an experimental platform for the package part that mimics the function of a stapes bone in the middle ear, we created a similar experimental environment to cochlea where the human basilar membrane vibrates. The mechanical and electrical responses of fabricated PAC were measured with a laser Doppler vibrometer and a data acquisition system, and were compared with simulation results. Finally, the fabricated PAC in a biocompatible package was developed and its mechanical and electrical characteristics were measured. The experimental results shows successful frequency separation of incoming mechanical signal from micro-actuator into frequency bandwidth within the 0.4 kHz–5 kHz range.
Development of a Novel, Low-Cost, Disposable Wooden Pencil Graphite Electrode for Use in the Determination of Antioxidants and Other Biological Compounds
Authors: Kariuki James , Ervin Emily , Olafson Carly
Published: July 2015

The development of portable sensors that can be used outside the lab is an active area of research in the electroanalytical field. A major focus of such research is the development of low-cost electrodes for use in these sensors. Current electrodes, such as glassy-carbon electrodes (GCEs), are costly and require time-consuming preparation. Alternatives have been proposed, including mechanical pencil-lead electrodes (MPEs). However, MPEs themselves possess numerous drawbacks, particularly structural fragility. In this paper, we present a novel pencil-graphite electrode (PGE) fabricated from a regular HB#2 pencil. This PGE is a simple, disposable, extremely low-cost alternative to GCEs ($0.30 per PGE, vs. $190 + per GCE), and possesses the structural stability that MPEs lack. PGEs were characterized by square-wave voltammetry of ferricyanide, gallic acid, uric acid, dopamine, and several foodstuffs. In all cases, PGEs demonstrated sensitivities comparable or superior to those of the GCE and MPE (LOD = 5.62 × 10−4 M PGE, 4.80 × 10−4 M GCE, 2.93 × 10−4 M MPE). Signal areas and peak heights were typically four to ten times larger for the PGE relative to the GCE.
Surprisingly facile CO2 insertion into cobalt alkoxide bonds: A theoretical investigation
Authors: Offermans Willem K , Bizzarri Claudia , Leitner Walter , Müller Thomas E
Published: July 2015

Exploiting carbon dioxide as co-monomer with epoxides in the production of polycarbonates is economically highly attractive. More effective catalysts for this reaction are intensively being sought. To promote better understanding of the catalytic pathways, this study uses density functional theory calculations to elucidate the reaction step of CO2 insertion into cobalt(III)–alkoxide bonds, which is also the central step of metal catalysed carboxylation reactions. It was found that CO2 insertion into the cobalt(III)–alkoxide bond of [(2-hydroxyethoxy)CoIII(salen)(L)] complexes (salen = N,N”-bis(salicyliden-1,6-diaminophenyl)) is exothermic, whereby the exothermicity depends on the trans-ligand L. The more electron-donating this ligand is, the more exothermic the insertion step is. Interestingly, we found that the activation barrier decreases with increasing exothermicity of the CO2 insertion. Hereby, a linear Brønsted–Evans–Polanyi relationship was found between the activation energy and the reaction energy.
Autoantibodies against Endothelin 1 Type A Receptor Are Strong Predictors of Digital Ulcers in Systemic Sclerosis
Authors: Avouac Jérôme , Riemekasten Gabriela , Meune Christophe , Ruiz Barbara , Kahan André , Allanore Yannick
Published: August 2015

Objective.

To determine the predictive value of functional autoantibodies against vascular receptors for the development of ischemic digital ulcers (DU) in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc).

Methods.

Angiotensin II Type 1 receptor (AT1R) and endothelin 1 Type A receptor (ETAR) autoantibodies were measured at baseline in a prospective cohort of 90 patients with SSc together with 5 validated angiogenic markers. The primary outcome was the occurrence of at least 1 new ischemic DU during the 5-year followup.

Results.

Twenty-four patients developed at least 1 new DU during the followup period. Univariate Cox analysis revealed that concentrations above the median value of anti-AT1R and anti-ETAR antibodies were predictive of the occurrence of ischemic DU (HR 2.85, 95% CI 1.19–6.84 and HR 3.39, 95% CI 1.35–8.50, respectively). A first multivariate Cox analysis including functional autoantibodies and clinical predictors of new DU confirmed anti-ETAR autoantibodies as independent predictors of the occurrence of new ischemic DU (HR 3.15, 95% CI 1.22–8.13) together with a history of DU at baseline. In a second model implemented with angiogenic markers, anti-ETAR autoantibodies remained an independent predictor of the occurrence of new ischemic DU (HR 9.59, 95% CI 1.75–52.64) together with the presence at baseline of active DU or history of DU.

Conclusion.

Anti-ETAR autoantibodies can be used together with the presence of current or past DU to identify patients with SSc who are at risk for the development of subsequent DU. These autoantibodies may allow for earlier management and therapeutic intervention.
Clinical Features and Outcomes of Takayasu Arteritis with Neurological Symptoms in China: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Yang Lirui , Zhang Huimin , Jiang Xiongjing , Song Lei , Qin Fang , Zou Yubao , Wu Haiying , Bian Jin , Zhou Xianliang , Hui Rutai , Zheng Deyu
Published: August 2015

Objective.

To describe the clinical features and longterm outcomes of patients with Takayasu arteritis (TA) in China who experienced neurological symptoms.

Methods.

A retrospective study was undertaken of patients with TA who attended a single study center from 2002 to 2013, who also exhibited neurological symptoms (n = 274). Clinical and imaging features were analyzed, as well as longterm outcomes.

Results.

The mean age at disease onset was 28.2 ± 11.2 years, with a female-to-male ratio of 4.3:1. The most common neurological manifestation was dizziness (214, 78.1%), the most frequent type of TA was type III (112, 40.9%), and the most common affected artery was the left subclavian (147, 53.6%). Involvement of 3 or 4 branches of the aortic arch was observed in 28% of patients. Among 30 patients experiencing a stroke (10.9%), steno-occlusive lesions of the subclavian artery and common carotid artery were frequently observed in patients with ischemic stroke, while steno-occlusive lesions of the descending aorta, abdominal aorta, and/or renal arteries were more frequently observed with hemorrhagic stroke. Heart failure was the most common cardiovascular event in those who died (n = 6) and in surviving cohorts.

Conclusion.

Neurological features in patients with TA were variable, and correlated with the number of arteries and the site of artery involvement. Resistant hypertension was one of the most important risk factors for hemorrhagic stroke in patients with TA.
Dedicated Education Units: Partnerships for Building Leadership Competency
Authors: Galuska Lee A.
Published: July 2015

Background:

To enable nurses to lead in health care transformation, nursing education must include opportunities for developing leadership, as well as clinical competencies. Dedicated education units (DEUs) provide supportive environments for competency development in undergraduate students. This study’s aim was to explore the effects of a DEU experience on the leadership development of baccalaureate nursing students.

Method:

A mixed-methods design included a quantitative strand, using a quasi-experimental, pretest–posttest, multisite design with control groups and a qualitative strand using focus groups.

Results:

Students in the DEUs demonstrated significant increases (
p
< 0.01) in leadership behaviors, as measured by the Student Leadership Practice Inventory. Focus group themes illuminate how the experiences of the students contributed to their leadership growth.

Conclusion:

Findings suggest that the DEU experience may promote enhanced undergraduate leadership competency development. [
J Nurs Educ.
2015;54(7):385–388.]
Impact of Integrating Community-Based Participatory Research Into a Baccalaureate Nursing Curriculum
Authors: Zandee Gail Landheer , Bossenbroek Debra , Slager Dianne , Gordon Beth , Ayoola Adejoke B. , Doornbos Mary Molewyk , Lima Andrea
Published: July 2015

Background:

Community-based participatory research (CBPR) is rapidly gaining respect within the health care community as a means to promote public health and address health disparities. It has also recently been named as one of the competencies needed by public health professionals to be effective.

Method:

This article describes an educational innovation where CBPR is integrated into a baccalaureate nursing curriculum as a strategy to create meaningful learning experiences for nursing students while benefitting the health of the community.

Results:

The impact of this approach was analyzed over a period of 12 years. The positive outcomes for the community, students, and faculty are described, along with the unique challenges.

Conclusion:

Integrating CBPR into a nursing curriculum is an innovation that is worthy of further assessment. [
J Nurs Educ.
2015;54(7):394–398.]
A pictorial review of reconstructive foot and ankle surgery: hallux abductovalgus
Authors: Meyr Andrew James , Singh Salil , Chen Oliver , Ali Sayed
Published: July 2015

This pictorial review focuses on basic procedures performed within the field of podiatric surgery, specifically for the hallux abductovalgus or "bunion" deformity.  Our goal is to define objective radiographic parameters that surgeons utilize to initially define deformity, lead to procedure selection and judge post-operative outcomes.  We hope that radiologists will employ this information to improve their assessment of post-operative radiographs following reconstructive foot surgeries.  First, relevant radiographic measurements are defined and their role in procedure selection explained.  Second, the specific surgical procedures of the distal metatarsal, metatarsal shaft, metatarsal base, and phalangeal osteotomies are described in detail.  Additional explanations of arthrodesis of the first metatarsal-phalangeal and metatarsal-cuneiform joints are also provided.  Finally, specific plain film radiographic findings that judge post-operative outcomes for each procedure are detailed.
Hemorrhagic heterotopic pregnancy in a setting of prior tubal ligation and re-anastomosis
Authors: Esterle Jason T , Schieda Jill
Published: July 2015

Heterotopic pregnancy is the occurrence of simultaneous intrauterine and extrauterine pregnancies.  Heterotopic pregnancy most commonly occurs during the first trimester of pregnancy in women who have significant risk factors including assisted reproductive therapy, prior ectopic pregnancy, and prior pelvic surgery or pelvic inflammatory disease. Although rare, heterotopic pregnancy must be recognized using ultrasound so as to provide appropriate treatment to the extrauterine pregnancy with the goal of preserving the intrauterine pregnancy. The case presented describes a patient with a pathologically proven (figure 8A and 8B), surgically treated 1st trimester heterotopic pregnancy.
Wireless Internet Technology to Support Learning in the University of Jordan: Students Voices
Authors: Alwraikat Mansour A
Published: July 2015

This study aimed to determine the obstacles that face the students in The University of Jordan while using wireless Internet technology. In addition, the study aimed to determine any statistical significant differences in students estimates of the obstacles in use with regard to their (gender, and the university educational level). A stratified random sample (500) students (male, female) were selected from the University of Jordan during the academic year 2013-2014. A questionnaire with three sections was developed for collecting data to answer the research questions of the study. First section was for demographic information; second section consisted of (11) items, and third section with an open-ended question. The results showed that students’ estimates of the obstacles they encounter during their use of wireless Internet technology in learning was very high. There were statistical significant differences with the means of the students’ estimates for the obstacles in their use with regard to gender in favor of females. In addition, there were no statistical significant differences with the means of students’ estimates for the obstacles in their use with regard to university educational level. The most important obstacles faced the students were: the weakness of Internet wireless coverage for all the buildings in the University of Jordan, and lack of sufficient power switches for charging portable devices on campus.
Interactive Design and Gamification of eBooks for Mobile and Contextual Learning
Authors: Bidarra Jose , Figueiredo Mauro , Natálio Carlos
Published: July 2015

Given the global spread of mobile platforms, such as iOS and Android, it is relevant to consider the potential of these devices in teaching and learning. Our exploratory research was designed to evaluate the possibility of using common ebook formats to create gamebooks (gamified books) that are effective in teaching and learning. After analyzing the features available in many free or open tools, we decided to use iBooks Author to build a model of a dynamic book that may function as an educational game for "Environmental Studies", aimed at children in the 4th grade, mostly 9-10 years old, in Portuguese schools. This paper presents the design and features of this interactive book titled "Adventures in the Guadiana River", developed using the Apple iBook format, and especially set for the iPad retina. Because this is a proprietary format we also built a prototype following the EPUB3 standard and developed new ways to interact with content within this universal format. Preliminary tests with our prototypes revealed very good usability and promising pedagogical potential in the proposed models.
Security of m-learning system: A collective responsibility
Authors: Shonola Shaibu Adekunle , Joy Mike S
Published: July 2015

Innovation in learning technologies and services is driven by demands from Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs) in order to meet their students’ needs and make knowledge delivery easier. The technology could play a pivotal role in extending the possibilities for teaching, learning, and research in educational institutions. M-learning emerged from this innovation as a result of an unprecedented explosion in the number of mobile devices due to availability and affordability of mobile phones, smartphones and tablets among students. Competition in the mobile device industry is also encouraging developers to be innovative, constantly striving to introduce new features. Consequently, newer sources of risks are being introduced in the mobile computing paradigm at manufacturing level. Similarly, many m-learning promoters and developers focus on developing and delivering learning content and infrastructure for m-learning system without adequate consideration for security of stakeholders’ data, whereas the use of these mobile technologies for learning poses a serious threat to confidentiality, integrity and privacy of those involved in teaching and learning, yet traditional security threats are also evolving. Against this backdrop, the stakeholders in education sector (i.e. education providers, educators, m-learning promoters and developers) should begin to consider the security implications of these devices in modern teaching and learning environments. The purpose of this paper is to identify the m-learning security issues that stakeholders may face, how they are being affected by the security threats, who among is stakeholders are affected or most affected by security issues in m-learning using three Nigeria universities as case studies and what are the responsibilities of the stakeholders in ensuring risk free m-learning.
Understanding Clinical Alarm Safety
Authors: Lukasewicz Carol L. , Mattox Elizabeth Andersson
Published: August 2015

Patient safety organizations and health care accreditation agencies recognize the significance of clinical alarm hazards. The Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation, a nonprofit organization focused on development and use of safe and effective medical equipment, identifies alarm management as a major issue for health care organizations. ECRI Institute, a nonprofit organization that researches approaches for improving patient safety and quality of care, identifies alarm hazards as the most significant of the “Top Ten Health Technology Hazards” for 2014. A new Joint Commission National Patient Safety Goal focusing on clinical alarm safety contains new requirements for accredited hospitals to be fully implemented by 2016. Through a fictional unfolding case study, this article reviews selected contributing factors to clinical alarm hazards present in inpatient, high-acuity settings. Understanding these factors improves contributions by nurses to clinical alarm safety practice.
Regulatory Dendritic Cells Restrain NK Cell IFN-γ Production through Mechanisms Involving NKp46, IL-10, and MHC Class I–Specific Inhibitory Receptors
Authors: Spallanzani Raúl G. , Torres Nicolás I. , Avila Damián E. , Ziblat Andrea , Iraolagoitia Ximena L. Raffo , Rossi Lucas E. , Domaica Carolina I. , Fuertes Mercedes B. , Rabinovich Gabriel A. , Zwirner Norberto W.
Published: August 2015

Cross-talk between mature dendritic cells (mDC) and NK cells through the cell surface receptors NKp30 and DNAM-1 leads to their reciprocal activation. However, the impact of regulatory dendritic cells (regDC) on NK cell function remains unknown. As regDC constrain the immune response in different physiological and pathological conditions, the aim of this work was to investigate the functional outcome of the interaction between regDC and NK cells and the associated underlying mechanisms. RegDC generated from monocyte-derived DC treated either with LPS and dexamethasone, vitamin D3, or vitamin D3 and dexamethasone instructed NK cells to secrete lower amounts of IFN-γ than NK cells exposed to mDC. Although regDC triggered upregulation of the activation markers CD69 and CD25 on NK cells, they did not induce upregulation of CD56 as mDC, and silenced IFN-γ secretion through mechanisms involving insufficient secretion of IL-18, but not IL-12 or IL-15 and/or induction of NK cell apoptosis. Blocking experiments demonstrated that regDC curb IFN-γ secretion by NK cells through a dominant suppressive mechanism involving IL-10, NK cell inhibitory receptors, and, unexpectedly, engagement of the activating receptor NKp46. Our findings unveil a previously unrecognized cross-talk through which regDC shape NK cell function toward an alternative activated phenotype unable to secrete IFN-γ, highlighting the plasticity of NK cells in response to tolerogenic stimuli. In addition, our findings contribute to identify a novel inhibitory role for NKp46 in the control of NK cell function, and have broad implications in the resolution of inflammatory responses and evasion of antitumor responses.
Caspase-1 but Not Caspase-11 Is Required for NLRC4-Mediated Pyroptosis and Restriction of Infection by Flagellated Legionella Species in Mouse Macrophages and In Vivo
Authors: Cerqueira Daiane M. , Pereira Marcelo S. F. , Silva Alexandre L. N. , Cunha Larissa D. , Zamboni Dario S.
Published: August 2015

Gram-negative bacteria from the Legionella genus are intracellular pathogens that cause a severe form of pneumonia called Legionnaires’ disease. The bacteria replicate intracellularly in macrophages, and the restriction of bacterial replication by these cells is critical for host resistance. The activation of the NAIP5/NLRC4 inflammasome, which is readily triggered in response to bacterial flagellin, is essential for the restriction of bacterial replication in murine macrophages. Once activated, this inflammasome induces pore formation and pyroptosis and facilitates the restriction of bacterial replication in macrophages. Because investigations related to the NLRC4-mediated restriction of Legionella replication were performed using mice double deficient for caspase-1 and caspase-11, we assessed the participation of caspase-1 and caspase-11 in the functions of the NLRC4 inflammasome and the restriction of Legionella replication in macrophages and in vivo. By using several species of Legionella and mice singly deficient for caspase-1 or caspase-11, we demonstrated that caspase-1 but not caspase-11 was required for pore formation, pyroptosis, and restriction of Legionella replication in macrophages and in vivo. By generating F1 mice in a mixed 129 × C57BL/6 background deficient (129 × Casp-11−/−) or sufficient (129 × C57BL/6) for caspase-11 expression, we found that caspase-11 was dispensable for the restriction of Legionella pneumophila replication in macrophages and in vivo. Thus, although caspase-11 participates in flagellin-independent noncanonical activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome, it is dispensable for the activities of the NLRC4 inflammasome. In contrast, functional caspase-1 is necessary and sufficient to trigger flagellin/NLRC4-mediated restriction of Legionella spp. infection in macrophages and in vivo.
Conodonts from Ordovician-Silurian boundary strata, Whittaker Formation, Mackenzie Mountains, Northwest Territories
Authors: Nowlan G S , McCracken A D , Chatterton B D E
Published: July 2015

Two sections within the middle part of the Whittaker Formation, exposed near Avalanche Lake, Mackenzie Mountains, Northwest Territories (62 °23 'N; 127°02 'W) comprise well bedded, black, argillaceous limestone and shale. The Ordovician-Silurian
boundary at section AVJ (116 m; 17 conodont samples) lies within a covered interval. Section AV4B (50 m; JO samples) was collected at closely spaced intervals around the systemic boundary, which has been located within a 0. 6 m interval. The samples yielded over 9000 conodont elements that are
moderately well preserved and have a colour alteration index (CAI) of 5. The Upper Ordovician fauna is diverse, with almost fifty species of twenty-three genera. It is dominated numerically by elements of panderodont species that represent 50 per cent of the specimens. Plectodina tenuis is the most
abundant denticulate species with specimens comprising 14 per cent of the fauna. Other significant species are: Aphelognathus politus, Coelocerodontus trigonius , Decoriconus costulatus, Oulodus rohneri, 0 . ulrichi, Plectodina aculeatoides?, P. florida, Pseudobelodina? dispansa, P. inclinata, P.
vulgaris vulgaris, Scabbardella altipes, Staufferella divisa andWalliserodus amplissimus. One new genus and new species is recognized: Zanclodus levigatus, a panderodont species with similarities to some species of Pseudobelodina. Four other new species are erected: Besselodus borealis, Ozarkodina
sesquipedalis, Panderodus rhamphoides and Walliserodus? rallus. No elements of Gamachian Fauna 13 have been recognized, anq specimens of North Atlantic Province species are very sparse. This is attributed to the restriction of the Selwyn Basin during the Late Ordovician and Early Silurian. The
systemic hiatus in the Canadian Cordillera may be, in part, a result of the restriction of circulation. Early Silurian conodonts are sparse, generally poorly preserved and include: Decoriconus costulatus, Ozarkodina hassi, Panderodus gracilis and Dapsilodus? sp. A.
’n Nuwe parallelle Nuwe Testament in Afrikaans
Authors: Erasmus Jan A.
Published: July 2015

No abstract available.
A Korean perspective on megachurches as missional churches
Authors: Niemandt Cornelius J.P. , Lee Yongsoo
Published: July 2015

Both the megachurch and the missional church are on-going global phenomena. Working from the premise that the church has to be missional, this article operates from a Korean perspective and researches whether a megachurch can be missional. The megachurch is not simply a very large church in terms of membership or the physical size of its building(s) � because of the influence of the interaction between socio-cultural, historical, and theological backgrounds, the megachurch has its own missiological and ecclesiological perspectives. The megachurch understands that the growth of an individual church implies the expansion of the kingdom of God, which means that the individual church has a responsibility to be both functionally and structurally sound, in order to ensure the efficient growth of the kingdom. This is an influential tendency that is found not only in larger size churches, but in all churches who are trying to achieve the quantitative growth of the church by way of evangelisation. The Korean megachurches, represented by the Poongsunghan Church, display these characteristics. The missional church is not simply a mission-driven church, sending many missionaries to other countries; the missional church believes that all churches are sent to the world by God, who wants to reconcile the whole universe with himself. The implication of this is that the church has to restore its missional essence in order to be able to participate in the mission of God. Thus, the missional church is a reforming movement that witnesses to God�s rule by recovering its apostolic nature. The characteristics of this movement are clearly visible in one of the case studies � the Bundang Woori Church. The importance of the missional movement for Korean churches is emphasised.Interdisciplinary and/or interdisciplinary implications: The research is a case study of Korean megachurches from a missional perspective. The research represents a critique of practises in Korean megachurches and a contrarian view of the mainline discourse in terms of the popularised view of Korean megachurches. The research may result in new insights in the missional possibilities open to megachurches.
The Local Bubble as a cosmic-ray isotropizer
Authors: Gebauer I. , Weinreuter M. , Kunz S. , Gaggero D.
Published: July 2015

Abstract. The arrival directions of energetic positrons and electrons convey fundamental information on their origin. PAMELA, and more recently AMS, have measured an anomalous population of energetic positrons, which cannot be explained in standard cosmic ray propagation models. Two possible sources have been extensively discussed: astrophysical point sources, such as local pulsars, and dark matter. In the first case an anisotropy in the flux of energetic particles is expected. Reliable predictions of the level of anisotropy need to account for the Sun's peculiar environment: the Sun resides in the so-called Local Bubble, an underdense region, embedded in a dense wall of molecular clouds. This structure is expected to act as an efficient cosmic-ray isotropizer. Using realistic assumptions on the impact of the Local Bubble on cosmic-ray diffusion, we demonstrate that the Local Bubble can indeed dilute the directional information of energetic positrons and electrons.
Relationship between climate change and wars between nomadic and farming groups from the Western Han Dynasty to the Tang Dynasty period
Authors: Su Y. , Liu L. , Fang X. Q. , Ma Y. N.
Published: July 2015

Abstract. In ancient China, the change in regional agriculture and animal husbandry productivity caused by climate change led to either wars or peaceful relations between nomadic and farming groups. From the Western Han Dynasty to the Tang Dynasty there were 367 wars between the two groups. The nomadic people initiated 69 % of the wars, but 62.4 % were won by the farmers. On a 30 year-period timescale, warm climates corresponded to a high incidence of wars. The conflicts between the nomadic and farming groups took place in some areas which are sensitive to climate change. During the cold periods, the battlefields were mostly in the southern regions. The main causes which leading to the above results are following: (1) warm climate provided a solid material foundation for nomadic and farming groups, especially contributed to improve the productivity of nomadic group; meanwhile, the excessive desire for essential means of subsistence in nomadic group could led to wars. (2) During the cold periods, people of farming group moved to the south and construct the south, meanwhile, nomadic group occupied the central plains, thus the battlefields also changed. As the background, climate change plays an indirect role in wars between groups.
The Campanian Case of Gaius Lucilius: Downtrodden Satire from Suessa Aurunca
Authors: Goh Ian
Published: July 2015

The hometown of the verse satirist Gaius Lucilius was Suessa Aurunca, on the border between Latium and Campania. This chapter investigates the remnants of Campania in this poet’s surviving fragments and reception, mostly in Horace but also in Cicero and Juvenal. Horses, gladiators, pots, theater, and pronunciation are all Campanian aspects of the satirist’s cultural identity, despite his invention of a Roman genre. Contexts of arrogance and militarism, harking back to fighting against Rome in centuries-old wars, mingle in Lucilius with tourism and conspicuous consumption as markers of insider and outsider positioning vis-à-vis Campania, a half-forgotten homeland for the satirist.