bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Socioeconomic, cultural and behavioural features of prior and anticipated influenza vaccine uptake in urban and rural Pune district, India: a mixed-methods case study
Authors: Kudale Abhay , Purohit Vidula Shridhar , Sundaram Neisha , Schaetti Christian , Weiss Mitchell G
Published: February 2013

Introduction

Ensuring production capacity of efficacious vaccines for pandemic preparedness alone may not be sufficient for effective influenza control. Community willingness to accept the vaccine is also critical. Population acceptance must therefore be recognised as a major determinant of vaccine effectiveness, and the social, cultural and economic determinants of population acceptance require study for effective policy and action. Pune is a focus of pandemic influenza in India. The experience of the 2009/2010 pandemic in Pune, capacity for vaccine production and experience with vaccine use provide a unique opportunity to address key questions about an effective vaccine intervention strategy for influenza control in India. This study will examine the socioeconomic, cultural and behavioural determinants of anticipated acceptance of influenza vaccines among the urban and rural populations of Pune district. Additionally, community ideas about seasonal influenza and its distinction from pandemic influenza will be investigated. Proposed research also considers the influence of health professionals, policy makers and media professionals on the awareness, preference and use of influenza vaccines.

Methods and analysis

This is a mixed-methods study including urban and rural community surveys, in-depth interviews with health professionals, case studies at two hospitals where suspected influenza cases were referred during the pandemic and in-depth interviews with media professionals and public health policy makers.

Ethics and dissemination

This protocol was approved by the ethics review committees of the Maharashtra Association of Anthropological Sciences and the WHO, and by the Ethics Commission of Basel, Switzerland. The proposed research will provide a better understanding of communication and education needs for vaccine action for influenza control in India and other low-income and middle-income countries. The findings and the approach for health social science research will have implications for containment of pandemic influenza in other settings and for effective vaccine action planning for other vaccines.
Can advanced paramedics in the field diagnose patients and predict hospital admission?
Authors: Cummins Niamh Maria , Dixon Mark , Garavan Carrie , Landymore Eric , Mulligan Noel , O'Donnell Cathal
Published: February 2013

Background

Accurate patient diagnosis in the prehospital environment is essential to initiate suitable care pathways. The advanced paramedic (AP) is a relatively recent role in Ireland, and refers to a prehospital practitioner with advanced life-support skills and training.

Objectives

The objectives of this study were to compare the diagnostic decisions of APs with emergency medicine (EM) physicians, and to investigate if APs, as currently trained, can predict the requirement for hospital admission.

Methods

A prospective study was initiated, whereby each emergency ambulance call received via the statutory 999 system was recorded by the attending AP. The AP was asked to provide a clinical diagnosis for each patient, and to predict if hospital admission was required. The data was then cross-referenced with the working diagnosis of the receiving emergency physician and the hospital admission records.

Results

A total of 17 APs participated in the study, and 1369 emergency calls were recorded over a 6-month period. Cases where a general practitioner attended the scene were excluded from the concordance analysis. Concordance with the receiving emergency physician represents 70% (525/748) for all cases of AP diagnosis, and is mirrored with 70% (604/859) correct hospital admission predictions.

Conclusions

AP diagnosis and admission prediction for emergency calls is similar to other emergency medical services systems despite the relative recency of the AP programme in Ireland. Recognition of non-concordance case types may identify priorities for AP education, and drive future AP practice in areas such as ‘treat and refer’.
Deriving a prediction rule for short stay admission in trauma patients admitted at a major trauma centre in Australia
Authors: Dinh Michael M , Bein Kendall J , Byrne Chris M , Gabbe Belinda , Ivers Rebecca
Published: February 2013

Introduction

The aim of this study was to derive and internally validate a prediction rule for short stay admissions (SSAs) in trauma patients admitted to a major trauma centre.

Methods

A retrospective study of all trauma activation patients requiring inpatient admission at a single inner city major trauma centre in Australia between 2007 and 2011 was conducted. Logistic regression was used to derive a multivariable model for the outcome of SSA (length of stay ≤2 days excluding deaths or intensive care unit admission). Model discrimination was tested using area under receiver operator characteristic curve analyses and calibration was tested using the Hosmer-Lemeshow test statistic. Validation was performed by splitting the dataset into derivation and validation datasets and further tested using bootstrap cross validation.

Results

A total of 2593 patients were studied and 30% were classified as SSAs. Important independent predictors of SSA were injury severity score ≤8 (OR 7.8; 95% CI 5.0 to 11.9), Glasgow coma score 14–15 (OR 3.2; 95% CI 1.8 to 5.4), no need for operative intervention (OR 2.2; 95% CI 1.6 to 3.2) and age < 65 years. (OR 1.7; 95% CI 1.2 to 2.6). The overall model had an area under receiver operator characteristic curve of 0.84 (95% CI 0.82 to 0.87) for the derivation dataset. After bootstrap cross validation the area under the curve of the final model was 0.83 (95% CI 0.81 to 0.84).

Conclusions

We report a prediction rule that could be used to establish admission criteria for a trauma short stay unit. Further studies are required to prospectively validate the prediction rule.
Family economic empowerment and mental health among AIDS-affected children living in AIDS-impacted communities: evidence from a randomised evaluation in southwestern Uganda
Authors: Han Chang-Keun , Ssewamala Fred M , Wang Julia Shu-Huah
Published: February 2013

Objective

The authors examine whether an innovative family economic empowerment intervention addresses mental health functioning of AIDS-affected children in communities heavily impacted by HIV/AIDS in Uganda.

Methods

A cluster randomised controlled trial consisting of two study arms, a treatment condition (n=179) and a control condition (n=118), was used to examine the impact of the family economic empowerment intervention on children's levels of hopelessness and depression. The intervention comprised matched children savings accounts, financial management workshops and mentorship. Data were collected at baseline and 12 months post-intervention.

Results

Using multivariate analysis with several socioeconomic controls, the authors find that children in the treatment condition (receiving the intervention) report significant improvement in their mental health functioning. Specifically, the intervention reduces hopelessness and depression levels. On the other hand, children in the control condition (not receiving the intervention) report no changes on both measures.

Conclusions

The findings indicate that children with poor mental health functioning living in communities affected by HIV/AIDS may benefit from innovative family economic empowerment interventions. As measures of mental health functioning, both hopelessness and depression have long-term negative psychosocial and developmental impacts on children. These findings have implications for public health programmes intended for long-term care and support of children living in resource poor AIDS-impacted communities.
A randomised trial of high and low pressure level settings on an adjustable ventriculoperitoneal shunt valve for idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus: results of the Dutch evaluation programme Strata shunt (DEPSS) trial
Authors: Delwel Ernst J , de Jong Dirk A , Dammers Ruben , Kurt Erkan , van den Brink Wimar , Dirven Clemens M F
Published: February 2013

Background

In treating idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (INPH) with a shunt there is always a risk of underdrainage or overdrainage. The hypothesis is tested whether patients treated using an adjustable valve preset at the highest opening pressure leads to comparable good clinical results with less subdural effusions than in a control group with an opening pressure preset at a low pressure level.

Methods

A multicentre prospective randomised trial was performed on a total of 58 patients suspected of INPH. Thirty patients were assigned to (control) group 1 and received a Strata shunt (Medtronic, Goleta, USA) with the valve preset at a performance level (PL) of 1.0, while 28 patients were assigned to group 2 and received a Strata shunt with the valve preset at PL 2.5. In this group the PL was allowed to be lowered until improvement or radiological signs of overdrainage were met.

Results

Significantly more subdural effusions were observed in the improved patients of group 1. There was no statistically significant difference in improvement between both groups overall.

Conclusions

On the basis of this multicentre prospective randomised trial it is to be recommended to treat patients with INPH with a shunt with an adjustable valve, preset at the highest opening pressure and lowered until clinical improvement or radiological signs of overdrainage occur although slower improvement and more shunt adjustments might be the consequence.
An 18-year follow-up of seizure outcome after surgery for temporal lobe epilepsy and hippocampal sclerosis
Authors: Hemb Marta , Palmini Andre , Paglioli Eliseu , Paglioli Eduardo Beck , Costa da Costa Jaderson , Azambuja Ney , Portuguez Mirna , Viuniski Verena , Booij Linda , Nunes Magda Lahorgue
Published: February 2013

Objectives

To evaluate the very long-term clinical outcome of surgery for mesial temporal lobe epilepsy and unilateral hippocampal sclerosis (MTLE/HS) without atypical features. The impact of surgical technique and postoperative reduction of medication on this outcome was investigated.

Design

Prospective longitudinal cohort follow-up study for up to18 years.

Setting

Epilepsy surgery centre in a university hospital.

Patients

108 patients who underwent unilateral MTLE/HS.

Intervention

Surgery for MTLE/HS.

Main outcome measure

Engel classification (I). Clinical evaluations were based on systematic interviews in person or by phone. Kaplan-Maier survival curves estimated the probability of remaining seizure free. The impact of medication management in the postoperative outcome was analysed using Cox regression.

Results

The probability of remainingcompletelyseizure-free at 12 and 18 years after MTLE/HS surgery was 65% and 62%, respectively. The risk of having any recurrence was 22% during the first 24 months and increased 1.4% per year afterwards. Type of surgical technique (selective amygdalohippocampectomy vs anterior temporal lobectomy) did not impact on outcome. Remaining on antiepileptic drugs and history of generalised clonic seizure diminished the probability of remaining seizure free.

Conclusions

MTLE/HS surgery is able to keep patients seizure free for almost up to two decades. Removal of the neocortex besides the mesial portion of the temporal lobe does not lead to better chances of seizure control. These findings are applicable to the typical unilateral MTLE/HS syndrome and cannot be generalised for all types of TLE. Future longitudinal randomised controlled studies are needed to replicate these findings.
A history of detachable coils: 1987–2012
Authors: Hui Ferdinand K , Fiorella David , Masaryk Thomas J , Rasmussen Peter A , Dion Jacques E
Published: February 2013

Background

The development of detachable coils is one of the most pivotal developments in neurointervention, providing a tool that could be used to treat a wide variety of hemorrhagic stroke. From the original Guglielmi detachable coil, a number of different coil designs and delivery designs have evolved. This article reviews the history of commercially available detachable coils.

Methods

A timeline of detachable coils was constructed and coil design philosophies were reviewed.

Results

A complete list of commercially available coils is presented in a timeline format.

Conclusions

Detachable coil technology continues to evolve. Advances in construction and design have yielded products which may benefit patients in terms of safety, radiation dose reduction and cost of treatment. Continued evolution is expected, irrespective of competing disruptive technologies.
Non-disclosure of HIV status in UK sexual health clinics—a pilot study to identify non-disclosure within a national unlinked anonymous seroprevalence survey
Authors: Sullivan Ann Kathleen , Savage Emma J , Lowndes Catherine M , Paul George , Murphy Gary , Carne Simon , Back David J , Gill O Noel
Published: February 2013

Objectives

To identify if HIV-infected individuals attending genitourinary clinics in the UK are not disclosing their HIV status, and to examine the potential utility of drug detection as a method to indicate non-disclosure.

Methods

HIV-positive samples from the unlinked anonymous seroprevalence survey from one London centre in 2009 had viral load (VL) assays performed to identify samples with VL below the level of detection (50 copies/ml, VLBLD) or <1000 copies/ml. After data matching, known HIV positives were excluded and the remaining samples analysed for the presence of a panel of antiretroviral drugs.

Results

Of 130 HIV-positive samples with sufficient clinical information and not undergoing an HIV test, 18 were classified as remaining undiagnosed after the clinic visit. Thirteen (72%, 95% CI: 47% to 90%) had a VLBLD (n=11) or VL <1000 copies/ml (n=2). Eight had sufficient volume to undergo ARV testing, and all were positive for the presence of drug; all with therapeutic levels of clinically appropriate combinations.

Conclusions

Non-disclosure of HIV status occurs among individuals attending sexual health services in the UK. This study demonstrates the feasibility and utility of using both VL and ARV assays in serum samples. Furthermore, the close correlation of detection of ARV with VLBLD suggests drug detection would be a useful tool to monitor non-disclosure prospectively, thus enabling the use of stored serum samples in future studies. The extent to which these findings can be extrapolated to other settings, and the potential impact of non-disclosure on undiagnosed estimates warrants urgent prospective study.
Augmentation of the exercise pressor reflex in prehypertension: roles of the muscle metaboreflex and mechanoreflex
Authors: Choi Hyun-Min , Stebbins Charles L. , Lee Og-Taeg , Nho Hosung , Lee Joon-Hee , Chun Jong-Mok , Kim Kyung-Ae , Kim Jong-Kyung
Published: February 2013

This study investigated the hemodynamic mechanisms underlying the exaggerated blood pressure response to muscle contraction in prehypertensive humans and the potential role of skeletal muscle metabo- and mechanoreceptors in this response. To accomplish this, changes in peak mean arterial blood pressure (ΔMAP), cardiac output, and total peripheral resistance (ΔTPR) were compared between prehypertensive (n = 23) and normotensive (n = 19) male subjects during 2 min of static contraction (at 50% of maximal tension), 2 min of postexercise muscle ischemia (metaboreflex), and 1 min of passive dorsiflexion of the foot (tendon stretch, mechanoreceptor reflex). These variables were assessed before and during the interventions. Percentage increases from baseline in MAP and TPR in response to the exercise pressor reflex were augmented in the prehypertensives, compared with the normotensives (44% ± 5% vs. 33% ± 4% and 34% ± 15% vs. 2% ± 8%, respectively) (p < 0.05). Metaboreflex-induced increases in MAP and TPR were also augmented in the prehypertensives (28% ± 5% vs. 14% ± 4% and 36% ± 12% vs. 14% ± 9%, respectively) (p < 0.05). In response to the mechanoreflex, no differences in the percentage increase in MAP or TPR were seen between groups. The results indicate that the reflex pressor response to static contraction is augmented in prehypertension and suggest that this phenomenon is due, at least in part, to enhanced activation of metaboreceptors.
The Wood Lake, Ontario, H4 ordinary chondrite, a new Canadian meteorite
Authors: McCausland Phil J.A. , Flemming Roberta L. , Wilson Graham C. , Renaud Jim , Dillon David , Holdsworth David W.
Published: February 2013

The Wood Lake meteorite was found in the Muskoka region of Ontario in July 2003. We examine the mineralogy, physical properties, shock, and weathering state of this recently reported Canadian meteorite. Bulk physical properties for Wood Lake (bulk density 3.57 ± 0.10 g/cm3, grain density 3.64 ± 0.01 g/cm3, and magnetic susceptibility log χ = 5.17) are typical of slightly weathered H chondrite falls and consistent with visual observations of its observed low weathering state (W1). Reconnaissance X-ray micro computed tomography of a Wood Lake fragment yields a similar bulk density (3.56 g/cm3) and allows for a three-dimensional description of the meteorite. Petrographic and electron probe microanalysis examination of the Wood Lake meteorite reveal sharp definition of chondrule margins, occasional mesostasis chondrule glass, only minor development of recrystallized matrix feldspar, and little variation in silicate chemical compositions, indicating Wood Lake to be an H4 ordinary chondrite. Mineral chemistry for Wood Lake olivine (Fa18.6 ± 0.7, n = 26) and low-Ca pyroxene (Fs17.5 ± 2.6, n = 16) agrees well with H chondrite averages for these minerals. The bulk of the stone has undergone a low to moderate level of shock (S3), as indicated in thin section by undulose optical extinction and the presence of planar dislocations in olivine and pyroxene grains. Moderate distortion of olivine crystal structures observed using in situ micro X-ray diffraction quantifies the shock deformation as a full width half maximum (FWHMχ) of 3.38° ± 1.13° (16 reflections from seven olivine grains), consistent with shock stage S3 ordinary chondrites. Wood Lake is confirmed as a new Canadian meteorite find that likely arrived on Earth not long before it was recovered.
Photoperiod history-dependent responses to intermediate day lengths engage hypothalamic iodothyronine deiodinase type III mRNA expression
Authors: Kampf-Lassin August , Prendergast Brian J.
Published: February 2013

Perihypothalamic thyroid hormone signaling features prominently in the seasonal control of reproductive physiology. Triiodothyronine (T3) signaling stimulates gonadal development, and decrements in T3 signaling are associated with gonadal regression. Type 3 iodothyronine deiodinase (DIO3) converts the prohormone thyroxine (T4) into biologically inactive 3,3′,5′-triiodothyronine, and in long-day breeding Siberian hamsters exposure to long (LD) and short (SD) photoperiods, respectively, inhibit and stimulate hypothalamic dio3 mRNA expression. Reproductive responses to intermediate-duration photoperiods (IntD) occur in a history-dependent manner; IntDs are interpreted as inhibitory only when preceded by longer photoperiods. Because dio3 expression has only been evaluated under LD or SD photoperiods, it is not known whether hypothalamic dio3 encodes absolute photoperiod duration or the reproductive interpretation of photoperiod. Male Siberian hamsters with and without a prior history of LD were exposed to IntD photoperiods, and hypothalamic dio3 mRNA expression was measured 6 wk later. Hamsters with a LD photoperiod history exhibited gonadal regression in IntD and a marked upregulation of hypothalamic dio3 expression, whereas in hamsters without prior exposure to LD, gonadal responses to IntD were absent, and dio3 expression remained low. Patterns of deiodinase expression in hamsters maintained in chronic IntD photoperiods did not appear to reflect feedback effects of gonadal status. Hypothalamic expression of dio3 does not exclusively reflect ambient photoperiod, but rather the context-dependent reproductive interpretation of photoperiod. Neuroendocrine mechanisms that compare current and prior photoperiods, which permit detection of directional changes in day length, occur either upstream, or at the level, of hypothalamic dio3 expression.
Role of macrophages in the fibrotic phase of rat crescentic glomerulonephritis
Authors: Han Yingjie , Ma Frank Y. , Tesch Greg H. , Manthey Carl L. , Nikolic-Paterson David J.
Published: February 2013

The ability of macrophages to cause acute inflammatory glomerular injury is well-established; however, the role of macrophages in the fibrotic phase of chronic kidney disease remains poorly understood. This study examined the role of macrophages in the fibrotic phase ( days 14 to 35) of established crescentic glomerulonephritis. Nephrotoxic serum nephritis (NTN) was induced in groups of eight Wistar-Kyoto rats that were given a selective c-fms kinase inhibitor, fms-I, or vehicle alone from day 14 until being killed on day 35. Rats killed on day 14 NTN had pronounced macrophage infiltration with glomerular damage, fibrocellular crescents in 50% of glomeruli, tubulointerstitial damage, heavy proteinuria, and renal dysfunction. Glomerulosclerosis was more severe by day 35 in vehicle-treated rats, as was periglomerular and interstitial fibrosis, while proteinuria and renal dysfunction continued unabated and some parameters of tubular damage worsened. During the day 14-to- 35 period, glomerular and interstitial macrophage infiltration decreased with an apparent change from a proinflammatory M1 phenotype to an alternatively activated M2 phenotype. Treatment with fms-I over days 14 to 35 selectively reduced blood monocyte numbers and abrogated glomerular and interstitial macrophage infiltration. This resulted in improved renal function, significantly reduced glomerular and interstitial fibrosis, and protection against further peritubular capillary loss. However, sustained proteinuria, tubular damage, and interstitial T cell infiltration and activation were unaffected. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that macrophages contribute to renal dysfunction and tissue damage in established crescentic glomerulonephritis as it progresses from the acute inflammatory to a chronic fibrotic phase.
Molecular mechanisms underlying skeletal muscle weakness in human cancer: reduced myosin-actin cross-bridge formation and kinetics
Authors: Toth Michael J. , Miller Mark S. , Callahan Damien M. , Sweeny Andrew P. , Nunez Ivette , Grunberg Steven M. , Der-Torossian Hirak , Couch Marion E. , Dittus Kim
Published: February 2013

Many patients with cancer experience physical disability following diagnosis, although little is known about the mechanisms underlying these functional deficits. To characterize skeletal muscle adaptations to cancer in humans, we evaluated skeletal muscle structure and contractile function at the molecular, cellular, whole-muscle, and whole-body level in 11 patients with cancer (5 cachectic, 6 noncachectic) and 6 controls without disease. Patients with cancer showed a 25% reduction in knee extensor isometric torque after adjustment for muscle mass ( P < 0.05), which was strongly related to diminished power output during a walking endurance test ( r = 0.889; P < 0.01). At the cellular level, single fiber isometric tension was reduced in myosin heavy chain (MHC) IIA fibers ( P = 0.05) in patients with cancer, which was explained by a reduction ( P < 0.05) in the number of strongly bound cross-bridges. In MHC I fibers, myosin-actin cross-bridge kinetics were reduced in patients, as evidenced by an increase in myosin attachment time ( P < 0.01); and reductions in another kinetic parameter, myosin rate of force production, predicted reduced knee extensor isometric torque ( r = 0.689; P < 0.05). Patients with cancer also exhibited reduced mitochondrial density (−50%; P < 0.001), which was related to increased myosin attachment time in MHC I fibers ( r = −0.754; P < 0.01). Finally, no group differences in myofilament protein content or ultrastructure were noted that explained the observed functional alterations. Collectively, our results suggest reductions in myofilament protein function as a potential molecular mechanism contributing to muscle weakness and physical disability in human cancer.
Selectivity of audiovisual ECoG responses revealed under naturalistic stimuli in the human cortex
Authors: Meshulam Meir , Ramot Michal , Harel Michal , Kipervasser Svetlana , Andelman Fani , Neufeld Miri Y. , Kramer Uri , Fried Itzhak , Malach Rafael
Published: February 2013

A fundamental debate in the study of cortical sensory systems concerns the scale of functional selectivity in cortical networks. Brain imaging studies have repeatedly demonstrated functional selectivity in entire cortical areas and networks using predetermined stimuli. However, it is not clear to what extent these networks are heterogeneous, i.e., whether the selectivity profiles in subregions within each sensory network show significant dissimilarity. Here, we studied local functional selectivity in the human cortex using naturalistic movie clips shown to 12 patients implanted with intracranial electrocorticography electrodes (590 in total), providing extensive cortical coverage. We examined the similarity of response profiles (40- to 80-Hz gamma-power modulations) across electrodes using a novel data driven approach without assuming any predefined category. Our results show that the functional selectivity of each highly responsive electrode was different from that of all other electrodes across the sensory cortex. Thus most responsive electrodes showed an activation profile that was unique in each patient and was similar to that of only 0.3% (1–2) of all other electrodes across all patients. Functional similarity between electrodes was linked to anatomical proximity. While in most electrodes the source of selectivity was complex, a small subset showed the well-documented selectivity to faces and actions. Our results indicate that the human sensory cortex is organized as a mosaic of functionally unique subregions in which each site manifests its own special response profile.
Pediatric Inflammatory Bowel Disease with Cytoplasmic Staining of Antineutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibodies
Authors: Saadah Omar I. , Al-Mughales Jamil A.
Published: February 2013

Background. It is unusual for the antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody with cytoplasmic pattern (cANCA) to present in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) without vasculitis. The purpose of this study was to describe the occurrence and characteristics of pediatrics IBD with cANCA.Methods. A retrospective review of pediatric IBD associated with cANCA serology in patients from King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Saudi Arabia, between September 2002 and February 2012.Results. Out of 131 patients with IBD screened for cANCAs, cANCA was positive in 7 (5.3%) patients of whom 4 had ulcerative colitis and 3 had Crohn's disease. The median age was 8.8 years (2–14.8 years). Six (86%) were males. Of the 7 patients, 5 (71%) were Saudi Arabians and 2 were of Indian ethnicity. The most common symptoms were diarrhea, abdominal pain, weight loss, and rectal bleeding. None had family history or clinical features suggestive of vasculitis involving renal and respiratory systems. No difference in the disease location or severity was observed between cANCA positive and cANCA negative patients apart from male preponderance in cANCA positive patients.Conclusion. The occurrence of cANCA in pediatric IBD is rare. Apart from male preponderance, there were no peculiar characteristics for the cANCA positive patients.
Functional Topography of Human Corpus Callosum: An fMRI Mapping Study
Authors: Fabri Mara , Polonara Gabriele
Published: February 2013

The concept of a topographical map of the corpus callosum (CC) has emerged from human lesion studies and from electrophysiological and anatomical tracing investigations in other mammals. Over the last few years a rising number of researchers have been reporting functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) activation in white matter, particularly the CC. In this study the scope for describing CC topography with fMRI was explored by evoking activation through simple sensory stimulation and motor tasks. We reviewed our published and unpublished fMRI and diffusion tensor imaging data on the cortical representation of tactile, gustatory, auditory, and visual sensitivity and of motor activation, obtained in 36 normal volunteers and in 6 patients with partial callosotomy. Activation foci were consistently detected in discrete CC regions: anterior (taste stimuli), central (motor tasks), central and posterior (tactile stimuli), and splenium (auditory and visual stimuli). Reconstruction of callosal fibers connecting activated primary gustatory, motor, somatosensory, auditory, and visual cortices by diffusion tensor tracking showed bundles crossing, respectively, through the genu, anterior and posterior body, and splenium, at sites harboring fMRI foci. These data confirm that the CC commissure has a topographical organization and demonstrate that its functional topography can be explored with fMRI.
Theoretical Framework of a Variational Formulation for Nonlinear Heat Transfer with Phase Changes
Authors: Feulvarch Eric , Roux Jean-Christophe , Bergheau Jean-Michel
Published: February 2013

This paper discusses mathematical results for a variational formulation dedicated to heat transfer with phase changes. Practical finite element experiences show that the studied formulation can lead to difficulties for the numerical resolution at each time step. The aim of the paper is to show that such numerical pathologies do not come from the basic variational formulation by showing existence and uniqueness of the solution.
Phytomedicines and Nutraceuticals: Alternative Therapeutics for Sickle Cell Anemia
Authors: Imaga Ngozi Awa
Published: February 2013

Sickle cell anemia is a genetically inherited disease in which the “SS” individual possesses an abnormal beta globin gene. A single base substitution in the gene encoding the human β‐globin subunit results in replacement of β6 glutamic acid by valine, leading to the devastating clinical manifestations of sickle cell disease. This substitution causes drastic reduction in the solubility of sickle cell hemoglobin (HbS) when deoxygenated. Under these conditions, the HbS molecules polymerize to form long crystalline intracellular mass of fibers which are responsible for the deformation of the biconcave disc shaped erythrocyte into a sickle shape. First‐line clinical management of sickle cell anemia include, use of hydroxyurea, folic acid, amino acids supplementation, penicillinprophylaxis, and antimalarial prophylaxis to manage the condition and blood transfusions to stabilize the patient′s hemoglobin level. These are quite expensive and have attendant risk factors. However, a bright ray of hope involving research into antisickling properties of medicinal plants has been rewarding. This alternative therapy using phytomedicines has proven to not only reduce crisis but also reverse sickling (in vitro). The immense benefits of phytomedicines and nutraceuticals used in the management of sickle cell anemia are discussed in this paper.
DNA Damage and Augmented Oxidative Stress in Bone Marrow Mononuclear Cells from Angiotensin-Dependent Hypertensive Mice
Authors: Campagnaro Bianca P. , Tonini Clarissa L. , Nogueira Breno V. , Casarini Dulce E. , Vasquez Elisardo C. , Meyrelles Silvana S.
Published: February 2013

It has been proposed that the nonhemodynamic effects of angiotensin II are important for the damage observed in the two-kidney, one-clip (2K1C) renovascular hypertension model. Much evidence confirms that angiotensin II is directly involved in NAD(P)H oxidase activation and consequent superoxide anion production, which can damage DNA. The current study was performed to examine the effects of angiotensin-II-dependent hypertension in bone marrow mononuclear cells (BM-MNC); dihydroethidium staining was used to assess reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, and the comet assay was used to assess DNA fragmentation in 2K1C hypertensive mice 14 days after renal artery clipping. In this study we demonstrated that 2K1C hypertensive mice have an elevated lymphocyte count, while undifferentiated BM-MNC counts were diminished. 2K1C mice also showed an augmented ROS production and marked BM-MNC DNA fragmentation. In conclusion, endogenous renin angiotensin system activation-induced arterial hypertension is characterized by excessive ROS production in BM-MNC, which might cause marked DNA damage.
Voltage Mode Pulse Width Modulator Using Single Operational Transresistance Amplifier
Authors: Pandey Rajeshwari , Pandey Neeta , Paul Sajal K.
Published: February 2013

This paper presents a voltage mode pulse width modulator (PWM) using single operational transresistance amplifier (OTRA). The proposed PWM consists of a relaxation oscillator output which is modulated using modulating signal. PSPICE simulation results and experimental results have been included to verify the theoretical analysis.
Endomicroscopy of the Pancreaticobiliary System
Authors: Peter Shajan , Bang Ji Young , Mönkemuller Klaus , Varardarajulu Shyam , Wilcox C. Mel
Published: February 2013

It is often difficult to accurately differentiate between benign and malignant pancreaticobiliary strictures, and some are interpreted as indeterminate despite ERCP, EUS, or radiological imaging techniques, thereby making it difficult for the clinician to make appropriate management decisions. Probe-based confocal laser endomicroscopy (pCLE) is an innovative imaging tool integrating real-time in vivo imaging of these difficult-to-interpret strictures in the pancreaticobiliary system during endoscopy. Recent studies of endomicroscopy have shown a promising role with improved accuracy in distinguishing these lesions,
thus paving the way for future research addressing improving precise interpretation, training, and long long-term impact.
Trimethoprim Use prior to Pregnancy and the Risk of Congenital Malformation: A Register-Based Nationwide Cohort Study
Authors: Andersen Jon Trærup , Petersen Morten , Jimenez-Solem Espen , Rasmussen Jeppe Nørgaard , Andersen Nadia Lyhne , Afzal Shoaib , Broedbaek Kasper , Hjelvang Brian Rafn , Køber Lars , Torp-Pedersen Christian , Poulsen Henrik Enghusen
Published: February 2013

Objectives. The aim of the study was to investigate whether the use of the antifolate antibiotic trimethoprim during the 12 weeks before conception was associated with congenital malformations.Methods. We conducted a nationwide register-based cohort study including all Danish women giving birth from 1997 to 2004. All women with at least one prescription of trimethoprim dispensed during the 12 weeks before conception were identified.Results. There was a doubling of congenital malformations in offspring to women exposed to trimethoprim in the 12 weeks before conception. The adjusted odds ratio (OR) of major congenital malformation was 1.87, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.25–2.81. There was a significant increase in major malformations of the heart (OR=2.49; 1.18–5.26) and limbs (OR=2.18; 1.13–4.23).Conclusions. In this study, we found an association between exposure to trimethoprim during the 12 weeks before conception and an increased risk of heart and limb defects.
Occupational Exposure to Blood and Body Fluids in a Department of Oral Sciences: Results of a Thirteen‐Year Surveillance Study
Authors: Gatto M. R. A. , Bandini L. , Montevecchi M. , Checchi L.
Published: February 2013

Objectives. Aim of this analysis was to identify trends that will aid in the prevention of injury. Methods. Our data were collected from 1999 to 2011 during a surveillance program of occupational exposures to blood or other potentially infectious materials in a Dental School by using a standard coded protocol. Results. 63 exposures were reported. 56/63 (89%) percutaneous and 7/63 (11%) mucosal, involving a splash to the eye of the dental care workers (DCW). 25/63 (40%) involved students, 23/63 (36%) DCW attending masters and doctorate, 13/63 (21%) DCW attending as tutors and 2/63 (3%) staff. 45/63 (71%) and 18/63 (29%) occurred respectively during and after the use of the device; of last ones, 1/18 (0.05%) were related to instrument clean‐up and 1/18 (0.05%) to laboratory activity, 12/18 (67%) occurred when a DCW collided with a sharp object during the setting, and 4/18 (22%) during other activities. The instrument and the body part most likely involved were needle and finger respectively. The overall exposure rate was 4.78 per 10,000 patient visits. Conclusions Our results may serve as benchmark that Dental Schools can employ to assess their frequency of injury.
Limited Comp Handover Algorithm For LTE-Advanced
Authors: Lin Cheng-Chung , Sandrasegaran Kumbesan , Zhu Xinning , Xu Zhuliang
Published: February 2013

Coordinated multipoint (CoMP) transmission and reception is the key technique in LTE-Advanced to improve the cell-edge throughput and/or system throughput. Joint processing (JP) in CoMP technology provides multiple data transmission points for each user among multiple cooperated radio base stations. Hard handover mechanism is adopted to be used in LTE-Advanced. Standard hard handover algorithm could not satisfy the concept of JP in CoMP in LTE-A due to the constraint of single connection for each user at any time. While the radio resources in the system are fixed, the more multiple data connections a user has, the more radio resources are used for the extra data connections, thus the lower capacity a system becomes. Therefore a new handover algorithm that not only supports JP in CoMP but also takes system capacity into consideration in LTE-A system is necessary. This paper proposes a new handover algorithm known as Limited CoMP Handover Algorithm to support JP in CoMP and overcome the system capacity issue. System performance of Limited CoMP Handover Algorithm is evaluated and compared with open literature handover algorithm via simulation in this paper. The simulation results show that Limited CoMP Handover Algorithm outperforms open literature handover algorithm by having shorter system delay and less system load whilst maintaining a higher system throughput in a high congested network.
18-Fluorodeoxyglucose Uptake by Positron Emission Tomography in Extraocular Muscles of Patients with and without Graves' Ophthalmology
Authors: García-Rojas Leonardo , Adame-Ocampo Gloria , Alexánderson Erick , Tovilla-Canales José Luis
Published: February 2013

Objective. To compare 18-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) uptake by positron emission tomography (PET) in extraocular muscles (EOMs) of patients with Graves’ ophthalmopathy (GO) versus patients without GO.Design. Prospective, observational, comparative, and cross-sectional study.Participants. Thirty-two eyes of patients with GO and seventy eyes of patients without GO.Methods. We prospectively included patients older than 18 years of age with and without GO. FDG-PET imaging study was performed; standardized unit value () was quantified in EOMs. Standard deviation and significant statistical difference () were calculated.Results. Thirty-two eyes of sixteen patients of the GO group were included, with a mean age of 44.31 (20–71) years. Seventy eyes of thirty-five patients of the group without GO were included, with a mean age of 49.20 (24–77) years. EOMs average uptake of the groups with and without GO were 3.38 ± 1.31 and 1.89 ± 0.51 (), respectively.Conclusion. FDG uptake was significantly increased in EOMs of patients with GO. PET gives valuable information and may be a helpful tool in detecting, localizing, and quantifying GO inflammation. Further research is needed to define the role of PET in detecting, grading, and following up GO in order to optimize treatment in the inflammatory stage.
Development of a Generic Microfluidic Device for Simultaneous Detection of Antibodies and Nucleic Acids in Oral Fluids
Authors: Chen Zongyuan , Abrams William R. , Geva Eran , de Dood Claudia J. , González Jesús M. , Tanke Hans J. , Niedbala R. Sam , Zhou Peng , Malamud Daniel , Corstjens Paul L. A. M.
Published: February 2013

A prototype dual-path microfluidic device (Rheonix CARD) capable of performing simultaneously screening (antigen or antibody) and confirmatory (nucleic acid) detection of pathogens is described. The device fully integrates sample processing, antigen or antibody detection, and nucleic acid amplification and detection, demonstrating rapid and inexpensive “sample-to-result” diagnosis with performance comparable to benchtop analysis. For the chip design, a modular approach was followed allowing the optimization of individual steps in the sample processing process. This modular design provides great versatility accommodating different disease targets independently of the production method. In the detection module, a lateral flow (LF) protocol utilizing upconverting phosphor (UCP) reporters was employed. The nucleic acid (NA) module incorporates a generic microtube containing dry reagents. Lateral flow strips and PCR primers determine the target or disease that is diagnosed. Diagnosis of HIV infection was used as a model to investigate the simultaneous detection of both human antibodies against the virus and viral RNA. The serological result is available in less than 30 min, and the confirmation by RNA amplification takes another 60 min. This approach combines a core serological portable diagnostic with a nucleic acid-based confirmatory test.
Korovkin Second Theorem via -Statistical -Summability
Authors: Mursaleen M. , Kiliçman A.
Published: February 2013

Korovkin type approximation theorems are useful tools to check whether a given sequence of positive linear operators on of all continuous functions on the real interval is an approximation process. That is, these theorems exhibit a variety of test functions which assure that the approximation property holds on the whole space if it holds for them. Such a property was discovered by Korovkin in 1953 for the functions 1, , and in the space as well as for the functions 1, cos, and sin in the space of all continuous 2-periodic functions on the real line. In this paper, we use the notion of -statistical -summability to prove the Korovkin second approximation theorem. We also study the rate of -statistical -summability of a sequence of positive linear operators defined from into .
Electrons and Phonons in High Temperature Superconductors
Authors: Singh Anu , Singh Hempal , Ashokan Vinod , Indu B. D.
Published: February 2013

The defect-induced anharmonic phonon-electron problem in high-temperature superconductors has been investigated with the help of double time thermodynamic electron and phonon Green’s function theory using a comprehensive Hamiltonian which includes the contribution due to unperturbed electrons and phonons, anharmonic phonons, impurities, and interactions of electrons and phonons. This formulation enables one to resolve the problem of electronic heat transport and equilibrium phenomenon in high-temperature superconductors in an amicable way. The problem of electronic heat capacity and electron-phonon problem has been taken up with special reference to the anharmonicity, defect concentration electron-phonon coupling, and temperature dependence.
How to Authenticate a Device? Formal Authentication Models for M2M Communications Defending against Ghost Compromising Attack
Authors: Ren Wei , Yu Linchen , Ma Liangli , Ren Yi
Published: February 2013

In Machine-to-Machine (M2M) communications, authentication of a device is of upmost importance for applications of Internet of Things. As traditional authentication schemes always assume the presence of a person, most authentication technologies cannot be applied in machine-centric M2M context. In this paper, we make the first attempt to formally model the authentication in M2M. We first model four attacking adversaries that can formulate all possible attacks in M2M, which are channel eavesdropping attack, credential compromise attack, function compromise attack, and ghost compromise attack. Next, we propose four models to tackle those corresponding adversaries, namely, credential-based model, machine-metrics-based model, reference-based model, and witness-based model. We also illustrate several concrete attacking methods and authentication approaches. We proof the authentication security for all proposed models and compare them for clarity. Our models present soundness and completeness in terms of authentication security, which can guide the design and analysis of concrete authentication protocols. Particularly, we construct a uniform authentication framework for M2M context and point out all possible authentication mechanisms in M2M.
On the Onset Time of Several SPE/GLE Events: Indications from High-Energy Gamma-Ray and Neutron Measurements by CORONAS-F
Authors: Kurt Viktoria , Kudela Karel , Yushkov Boris , Galkin Vladimir
Published: February 2013

We analyzed the high-energy gamma and neutron emissions observed by the SONG instrument onboard the CORONAS-F satellite during August 25, 2001, October 28, 2003, November 4, 2003, and January 20, 2005 solar flares. These flares produced neutrons and/or protons recorded near Earth. The SONG response was consistent with detection of the pion-decay gamma emission and neutrons in these events. We supposed that a time profile of the soft X-ray derivative was a good proxy of time behavior of the flare energy release. Then we showed that time intervals of the maximum both of energy release and pion-decay-emission coincided well. We determined the onset time of GLEs 65, 69 on the basis of neutron monitor data using the superposed epoch method. The time of high-energy proton onset on November 4, 2003 was found from the GOES data. The time delay between the high-energy gamma ray observation and the high-energy protons onset time was <5 minutes. This time lag corresponds to the least possible proton propagation time. So, we conclude that in these events both protons interacted in the solar atmosphere and the first protons which arrived to Earth, belonged to one and the same population of the accelerated particles.
Some Nonunique Common Fixed Point Theorems in Symmetric Spaces through Property
Authors: Karapınar E. , Patel D. K. , Imdad M. , Gopal D.
Published: February 2013

We introduce a new class of mappings satisfying the “common limit range property” in symmetric spaces and utilize the same to establish common fixed point theorems for such mappings in symmetric spaces. Our results generalize and improve some recent results contained in the literature of metric fixed point theory. Some illustrative examples to highlight the realized improvements are also furnished.
High Frequency of Fibromyalgia in Patients with Psoriatic Arthritis: A Pilot Study
Authors: Magrey Marina N. , Antonelli Maria , James Neena , Khan Muhammad Asim
Published: February 2013

Background. Widespread pain from fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) is observed in patients with psoriatic arthritis (PsA). We hypothesized that there is increased frequency of FMS in patients with PsA that contributes to fatigue and pain. Method. We prospectively enrolled patients with PsA based on the Classification criteria for Psoriatic Arthritis and healthy subjects were used as controls. The frequency of FMS was determined using London Fibromyalgia Epidemiologic Study Screening Questionnaire (LFESSQ) and Symptoms Intensity scale (SIs). Results. 34 PsA patients and 44 controls fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Median age of PsA patients was 52 years with 53.33% females. Median age of controls was 50.5 years with 59% females. FMS was present in 53.33% of PsA patients compared to 4.54% of the controls (), based on LFESSQ. 37.50% of PsA had FMS compared to 6.66% of controls () based on SIs. There was a significant correlation between LFESSQ and SIs in the psoriatic group (). 76.66% of PsA patients complained of fatigue compared to 40.90% of controls, but the mean fatigue score between the two groups was comparable (5.03 versus 5.18). Conclusion. FMS-associated pain and fatigue are significantly more frequent in patients with PsA compared to controls.