bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: new perpectives and update
Authors: Orsini Marco , Oliveira Acary Bulle , Nascimento Osvaldo J.M. , Reis Carlos Henrique Melo , Leite Marco Antonio Araujo , De Souza Jano Alves , Pupe Camila , De Souza Olivia Gameiro , Bastos Victor Hugo , De Freitas Marcos R.G. , Teixeira Silmar , Bruno Carlos , Davidovich Eduardo , Smidt Benny
Published: September 2015

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), Charcot’s disease or Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a term used to cover the spetrum of syndromes caracterized by progressive degeneration of motor neurons, a paralytic disorder caused by motor neuron degeneration. Currently, there are approximately 25,000 patients with ALS in the USA, with an average age of onset of 55 years. The incidence and prevalence of ALS are 1-2 and 4-6 per 100,000 each year, respectively, with a lifetime ALS risk of 1/600 to 1/1000. It causes progressive and cumulative physical disabilities, and leads to eventual death due to respiratory muscle failure. ALS is diverse in its presentation, course, and progression. We do not yet fully understand the causes of the disease, nor the mechanisms for its progression; thus, we lack effective means for treating this disease. In this chapter, we will discuss the diagnosis, treatment, and how to cope with impaired function and end of life based on of our experience, guidelines, and clinical trials. Nowadays ALS seems to be a more complex disease than it did two decades – or even one decade – ago, but new insights have been plentiful. Clinical trials should be seen more as experiments on pathogenic mechanisms. A medication or combination of medications that targets more than one pathogenic pathway may slow disease progression in an additive or synergistic fashion.
Etiologic factors related to unsatisfactory ThinPrep®cervical cytology: Evaluation and potential solutions to improve
Authors: Kalinicheva Tatyana , Frisch Nora , Giorgadze Tamar , Madan Shashi , Shidham Anushree , Bhalla Amarpreet , Mejias-Badillo Linette , Tranchida Paul , Bandyopadhyay Sudeshna , Dhillon Inderpreet , Shidham Vinod B.
Published: September 2015

Background:

In cervical cytology, the unsatisfactory rates for ThinPrep (TP) are slightly higher compared to SurePath. We examined various causes and explored potential for resolution of this discrepancy.

Materials and Methods:

Totally, 19,422 cases were reviewed and 1000 unsatisfactory specimens were selected and analyzed. 531 specimens were available for wash protocol. Out of 114 unsatisfactory specimens associated with atrophic cellular changes (ACC), 48 were resubmitted by provider and reevaluated.

Results:

Lubricant and lubricant-like debris/contamination (LUBE) was the most common cause of unsatisfactory specimens (68%; 681/1000) followed by blood (7.5%); ACC only (without other interfering factors) (2.4%); inflammation (3.0%); and combinations thereof (1.9%). 11.5% showed scant cellularity without an identifiable cause. 3.3% were virtually acellular. Wash protocol improved cellularity in 48% (256/531) of cases. However, only 29% (73/256) of those were satisfactory (with more than 5000 cells). Quantitative reduction in LUBE after wash protocol varied with different morphological subtypes. Interpretation patterns on satisfactory specimens after wash protocol were comparable to the results on selected cohort of specimens during the same study period. Out of 114 ACC, wash protocol was performed on 68 ACC specimens leading to satisfactory TP in 24% (16/68). Totally, 48 cases reported as unsatisfactory with ACC, were resubmitted by the providers between 2 weeks and 2 years. 44 (92%) showed increased cellularity, out of which 52% (23/44) did not show ACC.

Conclusion:

LUBE was the most common cause of unsatisfactory TP in addition to interference by blood and association with atrophic changes. Knowing the morphological spectrum of LUBE would help to identify it as the cause of unsatisfactory TP. Communicating the cause of unsatisfactory TP such as LUBE, ACC, and blood would hint the provider to take appropriate precaution during submission of the repeat specimen, leading to improved patient care.
Trismus
Authors: Poornima C , Poornima G
Published: September 2015

Trismus or jaw hypomobility refers to a sustained, tonic spasm of the masticatory muscles. There are various causes for this common symptom where the patient seeks medical intervention immediately, as it impairs speech and eating; causes social injunction leading to fear, anxiety and anger. Successful treatment of trismus depends on prompt recognition of its cause and immediate initiation of appropriate treatment. A thorough knowledge of this hypomobility is essential for successful treatment and to avoid permanent functional disability. This article gives an insight into etiology, differential diagnosis and treatment of trismus.

How to cite this article

Poornima G, Poornima C. Trismus. J Health Sci Res 2014;5(2):15-20.
Ice phase in altocumulus clouds over Leipzig: remote sensing observations and detailed modeling
Authors: Simmel M. , Bühl J. , Ansmann A. , Tegen I.
Published: September 2015

Abstract. The present work combines remote sensing observations and detailed cloud modeling to investigate two altocumulus cloud cases observed over Leipzig, Germany. A suite of remote sensing instruments was able to detect primary ice at rather high temperatures of −6 °C. For comparison, a second mixed phase case at about −25 °C is introduced. To further look into the details of cloud microphysical processes, a simple dynamics model of the Asai-Kasahara (AK) type is combined with detailed spectral microphysics (SPECS) forming the model system AK-SPECS. Vertical velocities are prescribed to force the dynamics, as well as main cloud features, to be close to the observations. Subsequently, sensitivity studies with respect to ice microphysical parameters are carried out with the aim to quantify the most important sensitivities for the cases investigated. For the cases selected, the liquid phase is mainly determined by the model dynamics (location and strength of vertical velocity), whereas the ice phase is much more sensitive to the microphysical parameters (ice nucleating particle (INP) number, ice particle shape). The choice of ice particle shape may induce large uncertainties that are on the same order as those for the temperature-dependent INP number distribution.
Design and characterization of specMACS, a multipurpose hyperspectral cloud and sky imager
Authors: Ewald F. , Kölling T. , Baumgartner A. , Zinner T. , Mayer B.
Published: September 2015

Abstract. The new spectrometer of the Munich Aerosol Cloud Scanner (specMACS) is a multipurpose hyperspectral cloud and sky imager designated, but not limited to investigations of cloud-aerosol interactions in Earth's atmosphere. Equipped with a high spectral and spatial resolution, the instrument is designed to measure solar radiation in the visible and short-wave infrared region that is reflected from, or transmitted through clouds and aerosol layers. It is based on two hyperspectral line cameras that measure in the solar spectral range between 400–2500 nm with a spectral bandwidth between 2.5–12.0 nm. The instrument was already operated in ground-based campaigns as well as aboard the German High Altitude LOng Range (HALO) research aircraft, e.g. during the ACRIDICON-CHUVA campaign in Brazil during summer 2014. This paper describes the specMACS instrument hardware and software design and characterizes the instrument performance. During the laboratory characterization of the instrument the radiometric response as well as the spatial and spectral performance was assessed. Since the instrument is primarily intended for retrievals of atmospheric quantities by inversion of radiative models using measured radiances, a focus is placed on the determination of its radiometric response. Radiometric characterization was possible for both spectrometers with an absolute accuracy of 3 % at their respective central wavelength regions. First measurements are presented which demonstrate the application possibilities and show that the key demands on radiometric and spectral accuracy as posed by the intended remote sensing techniques are fulfilled.
Ocean acidification modulates expression of genes and physiological performance of a marine diatom
Authors: Li Y. , Zhuang S. , Wu Y. , Ren H. , Cheng F. , Lin X. , Wang K. , Beardall J. , Gao K.
Published: September 2015

Abstract. Ocean Acidification (OA) is known to affect various aspects of the physiological performance of diatoms, but there is little information on the underlining molecular mechanisms involved. Here, we show that in the model diatom Phaeodactylum tricornutum expression of the genes related to light harvesting, carbon acquisition and carboxylation, nitrite assimilation and ATP synthesis are modulated by OA. Growth and photosynthetic carbon fixation were enhanced by elevated CO2 (1000 μatm) under both constant indoor and fluctuating outdoor light regimes. The genetic expression of nitrite reductase (NiR) was up-regulated by OA regardless of light levels and/or regimes. The transcriptional expression of fucoxanthin chlorophyll a/c protein (lhcf type (FCP)) and mitochondrial ATP synthase (mtATP synthase) genes were also enhanced by OA, but only under high light intensity. OA treatment decreased the expression of β-carbonic anhydrase (β-CA) along with down-regulation of CO2 concentrating mechanisms (CCMs). Additionally, the genes for these proteins (NiR, FCP, mtATP synthase, β-CA) showed diel expressions either under constant indoor light or fluctuating sunlight. Thus, OA enhanced photosynthetic and growth rates by stimulating nitrogen assimilation and indirectly by down-regulating the energy-costly inorganic carbon acquisition process.
Vanishing coccolith vital effects with alleviated CO2 limitation
Authors: Hermoso M. , Chan I. Z. X. , McClelland H. L. O. , Heureux A. M. C. , Rickaby R. E. M.
Published: September 2015

Abstract. By recreating a range of geologically relevant concentrations of dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) in the laboratory, we demonstrate that the magnitude of the vital effects in both carbon and oxygen isotopes of coccolith calcite of multiple species relates to ambient DIC concentration. Under high DIC levels, all the examined coccoliths lacked any offset from inorganic calcite, whereas in low (present-day) DIC concentrations, these vital effects and interspecies differences become substantial. These laboratory observations support the recent hypothesis from field observations that the appearance of interspecific vital effect in coccolithophores coincides with the long-term Neogene decline of atmospheric CO2 concentrations. The present study brings further valuable constraints on coccolith isotopic compositions by demonstrating the threshold for the absence of vital effects under high DIC regimes. From a mechanistic viewpoint, we show that the vital effect is determined by physiology; growth rate, cell size and relative rates of photosynthesis and calcification, and a modulation of these parameters with ambient carbon availability. This study provides palaeoceanographers with a biogeochemical framework that can be utilised to further develop the use of calcareous nannofossils in palaeoceanography to derive sea surface temperature and pCO2 levels.
Groundwater flow processes and mixing in active volcanic systems: the case of Guadalajara (Mexico)
Authors: Hernández-Antonio A. , Mahlknecht J. , Tamez-Meléndez C. , Ramos-Leal J. , Ramírez-Orozco A. , Parra R. , Ornelas-Soto N. , Eastoe C. J.
Published: September 2015

Abstract. Groundwater chemistry and isotopic data from 40 production wells in the Atemajac and Toluquilla valleys, located in and around the Guadalajara metropolitan area, were determined to develop a conceptual model of groundwater flow processes and mixing. Stable water isotopes (δ2H, δ18O) were used to trace hydrological processes and tritium (3H) to evaluate the relative contribution of modern water in samples. Multivariate analysis including cluster analysis and principal component analysis were used to elucidate distribution patterns of constituents and factors controlling groundwater chemistry. Based on this analysis, groundwater was classified into four groups: cold groundwater, hydrothermal groundwater, polluted groundwater and mixed groundwater. Cold groundwater is characterized by low temperature, salinity, and Cl and Na concentrations and is predominantly of Na-HCO3-type. It originates as recharge at "La Primavera" caldera and is found predominantly in wells in the upper Atemajac Valley. Hydrothermal groundwater is characterized by high salinity, temperature, Cl, Na and HCO3, and the presence of minor elements such as Li, Mn and F. It is a mixed-HCO3 type found in wells from Toluquilla Valley and represents regional flow circulation through basaltic and andesitic rocks. Polluted groundwater is characterized by elevated nitrate and sulfate concentrations and is usually derived from urban water cycling and subordinately from agricultural return flow. Mixed groundwaters between cold and hydrothermal components are predominantly found in the lower Atemajac Valley. Twenty-seven groundwater samples contain at least a small fraction of modern water. The application of a multivariate mixing model allowed the mixing proportions of hydrothermal fluids, polluted waters and cold groundwater in sampled water to be evaluated. This study will help local water authorities to identify and dimension groundwater contamination, and act accordingly. It may be broadly applicable to other active volcanic systems on Earth.
Uncertainty in hydrological signatures
Authors: Westerberg I. K. , McMillan H. K.
Published: September 2015

Abstract. Information about rainfall–runoff processes is essential for hydrological analyses, modelling and water-management applications. A hydrological, or diagnostic, signature quantifies such information from observed data as an index value. Signatures are widely used, e.g. for catchment classification, model calibration and change detection. Uncertainties in the observed data – including measurement inaccuracy and representativeness as well as errors relating to data management – propagate to the signature values and reduce their information content. Subjective choices in the calculation method are a further source of uncertainty. We review the uncertainties relevant to different signatures based on rainfall and flow data. We propose a generally applicable method to calculate these uncertainties based on Monte Carlo sampling and demonstrate it in two catchments for common signatures including rainfall–runoff thresholds, recession analysis and basic descriptive signatures of flow distribution and dynamics. Our intention is to contribute to awareness and knowledge of signature uncertainty, including typical sources, magnitude and methods for its assessment. We found that the uncertainties were often large (i.e. typical intervals of ±10–40 % relative uncertainty) and highly variable between signatures. There was greater uncertainty in signatures that use high-frequency responses, small data subsets, or subsets prone to measurement errors. There was lower uncertainty in signatures that use spatial or temporal averages. Some signatures were sensitive to particular uncertainty types such as rating-curve form. We found that signatures can be designed to be robust to some uncertainty sources. Signature uncertainties of the magnitudes we found have the potential to change the conclusions of hydrological and ecohydrological analyses, such as cross-catchment comparisons or inferences about dominant processes.
Recent transient tracer distributions in the Fram Strait: estimation of anthropogenic carbon content and transport
Authors: Stöven T. , Tanhua T. , Hoppema M. , von Appen W.-J.
Published: September 2015

Abstract. The storage of anthropogenic carbon in the ocean's interior is an important process which modulates the increasing carbon dioxide concentrations in the atmosphere. The polar regions are expected to be net sinks for anthropogenic carbon. Transport estimates of dissolved inorganic carbon and the anthropogenic offset can thus provide information about the magnitude of the corresponding storage processes. Here we present a transient tracer, dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) and total alkalinity (TA) data set along 78°50′ N sampled in the Fram Strait in 2012. A theory on tracer relationships is introduced which allows for an application of the Inverse Gaussian – Transit Time Distribution (IG-TTD) at high latitudes and the estimation of anthropogenic carbon concentrations. Current velocity measurements along the same section were used to estimate the net flux of DIC and anthropogenic carbon through the Fram Strait. The new theory explains the differences between the theoretical (IG-TTD based) tracer age relationship and the specific tracer age relationship of the field data by saturation effects during water mass formation and/or the deliberate release experiment of SF6 in the Greenland Sea in 1996 rather than by different mixing or ventilation processes. Based on this assumption, a maximum SF6 excess of 0.5–0.8 fmol kg−1 was determined in the Fram Strait at intermediate depths (500–1600 m). The anthropogenic carbon concentrations are 50–55 μmol kg−1 in the Atlantic Water/Recirculating Atlantic Water, 40–45 μmol kg−1 in the Polar Surface Water/warm Polar Surface Water and between 10–35 μmol kg−1 in the deeper water layers, with lowest concentrations in the bottom layer. The net DIC and anthropogenic carbon fluxes through the Fram Strait indicate a balanced exchange between the Arctic Ocean and the North Atlantic, although with high uncertainties.
3-D visualisation of palaeoseismic trench stratigraphy and trench logging using terrestrial remote sensing and GPR – combining techniques towards an objective multiparametric interpretation
Authors: Schneiderwind S. , Mason J. , Wiatr T. , Papanikolaou I. , Reicherter K.
Published: September 2015

Abstract. Two normal faults on the Island of Crete and mainland Greece were studied to create and test an innovative workflow to make palaeoseismic trench logging more objective, and visualise the sedimentary architecture within the trench wall in 3-D. This is achieved by combining classical palaeoseismic trenching techniques with multispectral approaches. A conventional trench log was firstly compared to results of iso cluster analysis of a true colour photomosaic representing the spectrum of visible light. Passive data collection disadvantages (e.g. illumination) were addressed by complementing the dataset with active near-infrared backscatter signal image from t-LiDAR measurements. The multispectral analysis shows that distinct layers can be identified and it compares well with the conventional trench log. According to this, a distinction of adjacent stratigraphic units was enabled by their particular multispectral composition signature. Based on the trench log, a 3-D-interpretation of GPR data collected on the vertical trench wall was then possible. This is highly beneficial for measuring representative layer thicknesses, displacements and geometries at depth within the trench wall. Thus, misinterpretation due to cutting effects is minimised. Sedimentary feature geometries related to earthquake magnitude can be used to improve the accuracy of seismic hazard assessments. Therefore, this manuscript combines multiparametric approaches and shows: (i) how a 3-D visualisation of palaeoseismic trench stratigraphy and logging can be accomplished by combining t-LiDAR and GRP techniques, and (ii) how a multispectral digital analysis can offer additional advantages and a higher objectivity in the interpretation of palaeoseismic and stratigraphic information. The multispectral datasets are stored allowing unbiased input for future (re-)investigations.
A Song of Great Order
Authors: MacKenzie Cameron
Published: September 2015

The real is perhaps the most ambiguous term in critical discourse, and has come to represent a host of investigations into the limit of language as an expressive vehicle in the face of an immaculate silence. As presented in McCarthy's novel, the real in fact works beyond such theological understandings to move through and past Lacanian models and into aesthetic theories of truth and the nature of the artwork. The writings of Alain Badiou allow us to grasp more concretely the deployment of the real in The Crossing, specifically Badiou's understanding of the dialectic in the manufacture of meaning and the role of the poetic enunciation in relationship to the revelation of truth. A close reading of the key structuring element of The Crossing, the Mexican folksong of the corrido, reveals how an artistic act can create the world in which it is performed, and how the resulting work of art may be the only thing, in the end, that can be called real.
Osteoid Osteoma of the Spine is an Important Cause of Back Pain: Two Cases and Review
Authors: Al Maqdassy E. G. , Bakdash M. M.
Published: September 2015

Two cases are reported and discussed of osteoid osteoma in the spines of two children, presenting as nocturnal low back pain irrelevant to any position or activity. Plain radiographs of the lumbosacral spine, Technetium-99 bone scan and computerized tomography (CT) were used to locate and verify the lesions. Both were then excised by open surgery and confirmed by a post-operative CT scan. A review of all the known and updated modalities of diagnosis and treatment is presented and it is emphasized that this uncommon lesion should be considered in the differential diagnosis of back pain in children.
Insight into the New Changes in European Resuscitation Council Guidelines for Adult Resuscitation (2005)
Authors: Ibrahim W. , Gehani A. A.
Published: September 2015

It is five years now since the last European resuscitation guidelines were published(1). The science of resuscitation has been enriched with further significant scientific evidence that has led to new evidence-based guidelines. These guidelines were released in November 2005 and published in the international Journal of Resuscitation, November 2005(2).
Met de wijsheid achteraf
Authors: Eeuwijk Jennifer , van den Bosch Judith , van der Wal Gerrit , Robben Paul
Published: September 2015

Met de wijsheid achteraf. Hindsight en outcome bias in het toezicht

Als we weten hoe een situatie afloopt, worden we onbewust beïnvloed door die kennis in ons oordeel over de situatie. Het kan de beoordeling van de kwaliteit van de in het verleden genomen beslissingen beïnvloeden (outcome bias), maar ook de beoordeling van de geschatte waarschijnlijkheid van de afloop (hindsight bias). Deze vertekeningen zijn een methodologisch probleem bij het werk van een toezichthouder. Door middel van literatuurstudie, expertinterviews en een focusgroepdiscussie met inspecteurs, is nagegaan wat we onder hindsight en outcome bias verstaan, welke factoren deze vertekening beïnvloeden en hoe deze te verminderen. De kans op vertekening neemt toe, als het eenvoudig lukt om verklaringen te bedenken voor de afloop. Het risico op vertekening kan teruggedrongen worden door, bijvoorbeeld, alternatieve uitkomsten te bedenken. Multidisciplinaire teams en het organiseren van tegenspraak zouden de kwaliteit van het werk van toezichthouders kunnen vergroten.
The extended generalized half logistic distribution based on ordered random variables
Authors: Kumar Devendra
Published: September 2015

In this paper, we considered an extended generalized half logistic distribution and derived some explicit expressions and recurrence relations for marginal and joint moment generating functions of generalized order statistics from extended generalized half logistic distribution. The results for record values and order statistics are deduced from the result. Finally, we obtained the characterizing result of this distribution on using the conditional expectation of generalized order statistics.
Mobilising the dead? The place of bones and corpses in the commemoration of the Tutsi genocide in Rwanda
Authors: Korman Rémi
Published: September 2015

Representations of Rwanda have been shaped by the display of bodies and bones at Tutsi
genocide memorial sites. This phenomenon is most often only studied from the perspective
of moral dimensions. This article aims in contrast to cover the issues related to the
treatment of human remains in Rwanda for commemorative purposes from a historical
perspective. To this end, it is based on the archives of the commissions in charge of
genocide memory in Rwanda, as well as interviews with key memorial actors. This study
shows the evolution of memorial practices since 1994 and the hypermateriality of bodies in
their use as symbols, as well as their demobilisation for the purposes of reconciliation
policies.
How competition governs whether moderate or aggressive treatment minimizes antibiotic resistance
Authors: Colijn Caroline , Cohen Ted
Published: September 2015

Understanding how our use of antimicrobial drugs shapes future levels of drug resistance is crucial. Recently, there has been debate over whether an aggressive (i.e., high dose) or more moderate (i.e., lower dose) treatment of individuals will most limit the emergence and spread of resistant bacteria. In this study, we demonstrate how one can understand and resolve these apparently contradictory conclusions. We show that a key determinant of which treatment strategy will perform best at the individual level is the extent of effective competition between resistant and sensitive pathogens within a host. We extend our analysis to the community level, exploring the spectrum between strict inter-strain competition and strain independence. From this perspective as well, we find that the magnitude of effective competition between resistant and sensitive strains determines whether an aggressive approach or moderate approach minimizes the burden of resistance in the population.
Prediction of junior faculty success in biomedical research: comparison of metrics and effects of mentoring programs
Authors: von Bartheld Christopher S. , Houmanfar Ramona , Candido Amber
Published: September 2015

Measuring and predicting the success of junior faculty is of considerable interest to faculty, academic institutions, funding agencies and faculty development and mentoring programs. Various metrics have been proposed to evaluate and predict research success and impact, such as the h-index, and modifications of this index, but they have not been evaluated and validated side-by-side in a rigorous empirical study. Our study provides a retrospective analysis of how well bibliographic metrics and formulas (numbers of total, first- and co-authored papers in the PubMed database, numbers of papers in high-impact journals) would have predicted the success of biomedical investigators (n= 40) affiliated with the University of Nevada, Reno, prior to, and after completion of significant mentoring and research support (through funded Centers of Biomedical Research Excellence, COBREs), or lack thereof (unfunded COBREs), in 2000–2014. The h-index and similar indices had little prognostic value. Publishing as mid- or even first author in only one high-impact journal was poorly correlated with future success. Remarkably, junior investigators with >6 first-author papers within 10 years were significantly (p< 0.0001) more likely (93%) to succeed than those with ≤6 first-author papers (4%), regardless of the journal’s impact factor. The benefit of COBRE-support increased the success rate of junior faculty approximately 3-fold, from 15% to 47%. Our work defines a previously neglected set of metrics that predicted the success of junior faculty with high fidelity—thus defining the pool of faculty that will benefit the most from faculty development programs such as COBREs.
Looking for a generic inhibitor of amyloid-like fibril formation among flavone derivatives
Authors: Šneideris Tomas , Baranauskienė Lina , Cannon Jonathan G. , Rutkienė Rasa , Meškys Rolandas , Smirnovas Vytautas
Published: September 2015

A range of diseases is associated with amyloid fibril formation. Despite different proteins being responsible for each disease, all of them share similar features including beta-sheet-rich secondary structure and fibril-like protein aggregates. A number of proteins can form amyloid-like fibrilsin vitro, resembling structural features of disease-related amyloids. Given these generic structural properties of amyloid and amyloid-like fibrils, generic inhibitors of fibril formation would be of interest for treatment of amyloid diseases. Recently, we identified five outstanding inhibitors of insulin amyloid-like fibril formation among the pool of 265 commercially available flavone derivatives. Here we report testing of these five compounds and of epi-gallocatechine-3-gallate (EGCG) on aggregation of alpha-synuclein and beta-amyloid. We used a Thioflavin T (ThT) fluorescence assay, relying on halftimes of aggregation as the measure of inhibition. This method avoids large numbers of false positive results. Our data indicate that four of the five flavones and EGCG inhibit alpha-synuclein aggregation in a concentration-dependent manner. However none of these derivatives were able to increase halftimes of aggregation of beta-amyloid.
Pair formation, home range, and spatial variation in density, size and social status in blotched foxfaceSiganus unimaculatuson an Okinawan coral reef
Authors: Nanami Atsushi
Published: September 2015

The present study examined pair formation, spatial pattern of home range and spatial variation in density, size and social status of blotched foxfaceSiganus unimaculatus(family Siganidae) on an Okinawan coral reef. Of 32 pairs sampled for sexing, 31 (96.9%) were heterosexual and showed size-assortative pairing. Developed ovaries were found in April and July, whereas oocytes were immature in August, September and February. Heterosexual pairing was found in both reproductive and non-reproductive periods. Home range size tended to be positively related to fork length (FL). The degree of home range overlap for same size class pairs was smaller than that for different size class pairs. The intraspecific behavior when two pairs approached each other was categorized as ‘attack,’ ‘agonistic display’ and ‘no interactions,’ and the frequency of agonistic behaviors (“attack” or “agonistic display”) was significantly greater than “no interactions.” Underwater observations at a seagrass bed, a rocky reef flat and a sheltered reef slope revealed that the mean FL was significantly smaller at the sheltered reef slope (4–13 cm) than at the rocky reef flat (>13 cm). No individuals were found in the seagrass bed. Most individuals less than 6 cm FL were solitary, whereas most individuals over 7 cm FL were paired. Density was significantly greater on the sheltered reef slope than on the rocky reef flat.
Some silkweeds (Zygnemataceae, Zygnemales, Charophyceae) from the Upper Murrumbidgee River catchment
Authors: Skinner Stephen
Published: September 2015

Twenty two species of silkweeds (Zygnemataceae), two species of Mougeotia, Sirogonium sticticum, thirteen species of Spirogyra and five of Zygnema were encountered in recent collections of macroalgae from the Upper Murrumbidgee River catchment in the Southern Tablelands of New South Wales and the Australian Capital Territory, Australia. The majority of the taxa collected were newly reported for Australia. The occurrence and distribution of silkweeds in both flowing water and wetlands in the catchment is similar to that described for other semi-arid parts of the world, notably Spain, south-western United States and the coastal areas of the Netherlands.
Real‐time Tissue Elastography for Assessment of Liver Stiffness in Adults Without Known Liver Disease
Authors: Hu Yu , Gong Hai-Yan , Lin Hong-Jun
Published: September 2015

Objectives

To investigate normal liver stiffness and its influential factors in adults without liver disease using real‐time tissue elastography. The liver stiffness threshold value for identifying patients with chronic liver disease was also determined.

Methods

One hundred twenty healthy volunteers were examined with real‐time tissue elastography. An integrated quantitative elastographic parameter, defined as the liver fibrosis index, was obtained by tissue dispersion quantitative analysis. Correlations between the liver fibrosis index and age, sex, and body mass index (BMI) were studied. To determine the threshold value for identifying chronic liver disease, 29 patients with chronic hepatitis B who underwent liver biopsy, including patients without fibrosis (fibrosis stage F0; n = 9) and patients with substantial fibrosis (F1–F2; n = 20) were also investigated. A receiver operating characteristic curve analysis for differentiating the F0 from the F1–F2 group was performed.

Results

There were no significant differences in the mean liver fibrosis index between sexes or among different age groups. There was a positive correlation between BMI and the liver fibrosis index. The mean liver fibrosis index ± SD in healthy participants with a normal BMI was 1.31 ± 0.25. The mean liver fibrosis index values for F0 and F1–F2 patients with a normal BMI were 1.47 ± 0.24 and 2.44 ± 0.49, respectively (P < .001). The optimal liver fibrosis index threshold value for discriminating normal liver from noncirrhotic chronic liver disease was 2.12 in participants with a normal BMI.

Conclusions

Liver stiffness determined by real‐time tissue elastography in healthy Chinese adults is not affected by age and sex but has a positive correlation with BMI. Real‐time tissue elastography for assessment of liver stiffness can also be used for identification of substantial fibrosis in patients with chronic liver disease.
Usefulness of Sonography in Evaluating Children Suspected of Malrotation
Authors: Zhou Lu-yao , Li Shu-rong , Wang Wei , Shan Quan-yuan , Pan Fu-shun , Liu Jun-cheng , Xie Xiao-yan
Published: September 2015

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to prospectively evaluate the value of sonography in working up or ruling out malrotation by 3 sonographic features (inversion of the superior mesenteric artery and superior mesenteric vein, the whirlpool sign, and an intraperitoneal transverse duodenum) and comparing it with an upper gastrointestinal (GI) contrast study.

Methods

A total of 70 pediatric patients who underwent detailed abdominal sonography to rule out intestinal malrotation were included. Twenty‐three of them also underwent an upper GI contrast study. Surgery or clinical follow‐up was taken as the reference standard. Statistical analysis was performed with the χ2 test.

Results

Twenty‐three patients had a diagnosis of malrotation by surgical findings. With the combination of all 3 sonographic features, the sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of sonography for determining malrotation were 100% (23 of 23), 97.8% (46 of 47), and 98.6% (69 of 70), respectively, whereas the sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of the upper GI study were 40% (4 of 10), 64.3% (9 of 14), and 56.5% (13 of 23; P < .001). Combined anomalies in 2 patients and complications in 2 patients were also detected by sonography.

Conclusions

By combining inversion of the superior mesenteric artery and superior mesenteric vein, the whirlpool sign, and an intraperitoneal transverse duodenum, sonography might be more valuable for accurately working up or ruling out pediatric malrotation than an upper GI contrast study. In addition, sonography could provide extra information, such as combined anomalies and intestinal necrosis, to help management.
Impact of an Inexpensive Anatomy‐Based Fetal Pig Simulator on Obstetric Ultrasound Training
Authors: Akoma Ugochi N. , Shumard Kristina M. , Street Linda , Brost Brian C. , Nitsche Joshua F.
Published: September 2015

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to construct an inexpensive anatomy‐based obstetric ultrasound task trainer and investigate whether introduction of this trainer into a hands‐on obstetric ultrasound course improved course participants' ultrasound scanning skills.

Methods

The trainer was created by placing fetal pigs into preservative‐filled heat‐sealed polyethylene bags. Twenty‐four participants in an obstetric ultrasound course at Wake Forest School of Medicine were randomized to receive hands‐on scanning with pregnant women or hands‐on scanning and fetal pig simulation. Biometric scans were performed before and after the course. The time to complete the scans, margin of error of biometric measurements, and number of technically adequate images per scan were compared between groups.

Results

Twelve participants were randomized into each group. Although a direct comparison of postcourse biometric scans demonstrated no difference between groups, participants that received simulation training showed significant improvements in the time to complete the biometric scan (P < .05) and number of technically adequate images obtained (P < .05), whereas those who did not receive simulation training did not show significant improvements.

Conclusions

Addition of the fetal pig ultrasound task trainer resulted in improvements in the course participants' scanning efficiency even after very limited exposure. Incorporating the task trainer earlier and more broadly into obstetric ultrasound training may benefit trainees.
A review of electroconvulsive therapy in suicidality
Authors: Oji Chinelo , Moore Troy A. , Gutierrez Cynthia A.
Published: September 2015

Introduction

Suicidal thoughts and behaviors are highly associated with major psychiatric illnesses, including depression, schizophrenia, and substance related disorders.1 Suicide is a major cause of death in individuals with mood disorders, and mortality rates are markedly higher in this patient cohort compared with those without mental illness.2,3 The estimated lifetime rate of suicide in those with schizophrenia, major depressive disorder, and bipolar disorder are 6.0%, 14.6%, and 15.5%, respectively, as compared with 0.72% in the general population.4

Methods

A literature search was conducted for empirical evidence of affect of suicidality with electroconvulsive therapy.

Results

Available evidence suggests electroconvulsive therapy may reduce the risk of suicide in various patient populations.

Discussion

This review seeks to summarize a selection of the pertinent literature describing electroconvulsive therapy's effects on suicidality.
A review of suicide risk assessment instruments and approaches
Authors: Lotito Megan , Cook Emmeline
Published: September 2015

Introduction:

Conducting an accurate suicide risk assessment (SRA) is no simple task as there are a number of factors that influence an individual's level of suicidality and his/her willingness to share this information. Therefore, it is imperative that practitioners adopt a systematic approach to conducting and documenting the foreseeability that a patient will commit suicide.

Methods

PubMed was used to search for articles published in MEDLINE journals using the following keywords: suicide, risk assessment, measure, scale. Randomized trials and pilot, proof-of-concept publications investigating the use of specific SRA measurements were included in the review. The scales are described based on the prevailing opinions in psychiatry from the American Psychiatric Association's Textbook of Suicide Assessment and Management (2nd ed., 2012).

Results

Although various SRA scales exist, experts in the field have repeatedly concluded that there is not any one scale that can predict who will commit suicide to any useful degree. However, when used along with the clinical interview, standardized suicide risk factor components of clinical and research scales remain crucial to gaining information often omitted by patients regarding thoughts and preparation for suicide. A summary of the most widely cited scales and approaches used in SRA is provided.

Discussion

SRA remains a challenge largely due to the fact that suicidal behavior is multifactorial. As a result, risk formulation is a process that should involve both standardized measures and detailed clinical interviews repeated over time.
Modeling interstellar pickup ion distributions in corotating interaction regions inside 1 AU
Authors: Chen J. H. , Schwadron N. A. , Möbius E. , Gorby M.
Published: September 2015

We present a modeling study of interstellar pickup ion (PUI) distributions in corotating interaction regions (CIRs). We consider gradual compressions associated with CIRs formed when fast speed streams overtake slower streams in the inner heliosphere. For the analysis, we adopt a simplified magnetohydrodynamic model of a CIR. The Energetic Particle Radiation Environment Module, a parallelized particle numerical kinetic code, is used to model PUI distributions using the focused transport equation, including adiabatic cooling/heating, adiabatic focusing, and parallel and perpendicular diffusion. The continuous injection of PUIs is handled as a source term with a ring distribution in velocity space that is produced from the local neutral density obtained from a hot model of the interstellar neutral gas. The simulated distributions exhibit a harder spectrum in the compression region and a softer spectrum in the rarefaction region than that in undisturbed solar wind. As an additional result, a v−5 power law tail distribution above the PUI cutoff speed (a knee in the distribution) emerges for a particular velocity gradient in the CIR. The tail above the PUI cutoff is sensitive to the CIR velocity gradient, and in one observational case studied, this relationship adequately explains the observed spectrum from 2 to 4 times the solar wind speed. This suggests that the velocity gradient associated with the CIR formation can efficiently create a seed population of PUIs before a shock forms even without stochastic acceleration. Thus, local CIR compressions without shocks may play a significant role in the acceleration process as suggested previously.
Fast asthenosphere motion in high‐resolution global mantle flow models
Authors: Weismüller Jens , Gmeiner Björn , Ghelichkhan Siavash , Huber Markus , John Lorenz , Wohlmuth Barbara , Rüde Ulrich , Bunge Hans‐Peter
Published: September 2015

A variety of geologic observations point to fast upper mantle flow that may exceed plate tectonic velocities by an order of magnitude. At the same time there is mounting evidence from seismology for flow‐like structures in the upper 100–200 km of the mantle. Here we present a set of geodynamic simulations to link these observations. In a synthetic setting, we include asthenospheric channels of varying thickness, with an extreme case of 100 km, and a significant viscosity contrast of up to 4 orders of magnitude relative to the deeper mantle. Using our new global high‐resolution code TERRA‐NEO, we obtain an increase in velocity by a factor of 10 between a 1000 km thick and the very thin channel, translating into velocities of ∼ 20 cm/a within the narrow asthenosphere. We further present and verify a simple Poiseuille flow model, predicting that the upper mantle velocity scales with the inverse of the asthenosphere thickness.
Comparison of fine structures of electron cyclotron harmonic emissions in aurora
Authors: LaBelle J. , Dundek M.
Published: September 2015

Recent discoveries of higher harmonic cyclotron emissions in aurora occurring under daylight conditions motivated the modification of radio receivers at South Pole Station, Antarctica, to measure fine structure of such emissions during two consecutive austral summers, 2013–2014 and 2014–2015. The experiment recorded 347 emission events over 376 days of observation. The seasonal distribution of these events reveals that successively higher harmonics require higher solar zenith angles for occurrence, as expected if they are generated at the matching condition fuh = Nfce, which for higher N requires higher electron densities which are associated with higher solar zenith angles. This result implies that generation of higher harmonics from lower harmonics via wave‐wave processes explains only a minority of events. Detailed examination of 21 cases in which two harmonics occur simultaneously shows that in almost all events the higher harmonic comes from higher altitudes, and only for a small fraction of events is it plausible that the frequencies of the fine structures of the emissions are correlated and in exact integer ratio. This observation puts an upper bound of 15–20% on the fraction of emissions which can be explained by wave‐wave interactions involving Z mode waves at fce and, combined with consideration of source altitudes, puts an upper bound of 75% on the fraction explained by coalescence of Z mode waves at 2fce. Taken together, these results suggest that the dominant mechanism for the higher harmonics is independent generation at the matching points fuh = Nfce and that the wave‐wave interaction mechanisms explain a relatively small fraction of events.
A prototype physical database for passive microwave retrievals of precipitation over the US Southern Great Plains
Authors: Ringerud S. , Kummerow C. D. , Peters‐Lidard C. D.
Published: September 2015

An accurate understanding of the instantaneous, dynamic land surface emissivity is necessary for a physically based, multi‐channel passive microwave precipitation retrieval scheme over land. In an effort to assess the feasibility of the physical approach for land surfaces, a semi‐empirical emissivity model is applied for calculation of the surface component in a test area of the US Southern Great Plains. A physical emissivity model, using land surface model data as input, is used to calculate emissivity at the 10 GHz frequency, combining contributions from the underlying soil and vegetation layers, including the dielectric and roughness effects of each medium. An empirical technique is then applied, based upon a robust set of observed channel covariances, extending the emissivity calculations to all channels. For calculation of the hydrometeor contribution, reflectivity profiles from the Tropical Rainfall Measurement Mission Precipitation Radar (TRMM PR) are utilized along with coincident brightness temperatures (Tbs) from the TRMM Microwave Imager (TMI), and cloud‐resolving model profiles. Ice profiles are modified to be consistent with the higher frequency microwave Tbs. Resulting modeled top of the atmosphere Tbs show correlations to observations of 0.9, biases of 1K or less, root‐mean‐square errors on the order of 5K, and improved agreement over the use of climatological emissivity values. The synthesis of these models and data sets leads to the creation of a simple prototype Tb database that includes both dynamic surface and atmospheric information physically consistent with the land surface model, emissivity model, and atmospheric information.
H1N1 influenza‐associated pneumonia with severe obesity: successful management with awake veno‐venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and early respiratory physical therapy
Authors: Kikukawa Tetsuei , Ogura Takayuki , Harasawa Tomofumi , Suzuki Hiroyuki , Nakano Minoru
Published: September 2015

Case

We report a case of H1N1 influenza‐associated respiratory failure with severe obesity.

Outcome

A 54‐year‐old man was admitted to our intensive care unit (ICU) because of H1N1 influenza‐associated severe respiratory failure. He was severely obese, having a body mass index of 37.2. His respiratory condition remained severe under mechanical ventilation. We started veno‐venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation immediately. Awake management was started on ICU Day 6, and the patient's respiratory physical therapy began the following day. His respiratory condition showed excellent improvement immediately following the initiation of respiratory physical therapy. The patient was successfully decannulated on ICU Day 9, and he was discharged from the ICU on Day 11. He was discharged from the hospital with no severe disability on disease Day 60.

Conclusion

Awake extracorporeal membrane oxygenation management with early respiratory physical therapy can be useful in the treatment of morbidly obese patients who present with severe respiratory failure.