bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lack of association between FokI polymorphism in vitamin D receptor gene (VDR) & type 2 diabetes mellitus in the Tunisian population
Authors: Mahjoubi Imen , Kallel Amani , Sbaï Mohamed Hédi , Ftouhi Bochra , ben Halima Meriam , Jemaa Zeineb , Feki Moncef , Slimane Hedia , Jemaa Riadh , Kaabachi Naziha
Published: November 2016

Background & objectives:

The impact of several environmental and genetic factors on diabetes is well documented. Though the association between the vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene polymorphisms and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) has been analyzed in different ethnic groups, the results have been inconsistent. The aim of this study was to evaluate the possible association between VDR FokI polymorphism and genetic susceptibility to T2DM in Tunisian population.

Methods:

A total of 439 unrelated patients with T2DM and 302 healthy controls were included in the study. Genomic DNA was extracted from blood and genotyped for the single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) of FokI (T/C: (rs2228570) by polymerase chain reaction and restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) analysis.

Results:

The genotype distribution and the relative allelic frequencies for the FokI polymorphism were not significantly different between T2DM and controls: in T2DM patients the frequencies of the CC, CT, and TT genotypes were 52.6, 41.0, and 6.1 per cent, respectively, and in controls the genotype frequencies were 55.6, 38.7, and 5.6 per cent, respectively. In our study, the TT genotype of the FokI polymorphism was not associated with T2DM (OR =1.19, 95% CI 0.63 - 2.25, P=0.577).

Interpretation & conclusions:

Our study showed no significant association of the FokI polymorphism in the vitamin D receptor gene with type 2 diabetes mellitus in Tunisian population.
Validation of ICMR index for identification of dental fluorosis in epidemiological studies
Authors: Goyal Ashima , Verma Mahesh , Toteja G.S. , Gauba K. , Mohanty Vikrant , Mohanty Utkal , Kaur Rupinder
Published: November 2016

Background & objectives:

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) formulated a Task Force on dental fluorosis and recommended the subgroup to develop a simplified index for identification and grading of dental fluorosis to be used by the health workers. This study was conducted to pre-test the ‘ICMR Index for Dental Fluorosis’ in the field to check its reliability and reproducibility.

Methods:

A total of 600 photographs were taken, 150 in each grade of fluorosis by screening 14-17 yr school children from eight schools of Hisar (Haryana) and South west Delhi. Eighty photographs were finalized (20 in each grade) before calibration to be used for training of field workers. Calibration exercise was conducted involving the five member survey team on 100 diagnosed cases of dental fluorosis. The members again screened 74 children with dental fluorosis in the field to categorize in to different grades of fluorosis for assessment of inter-examiner reliability.

Results:

The ICMR criteria showed more difference in agreement in very mild and mild categories during calibration. The inter-examiner reliability (κ) ranged from 0.59-1. The criteria was further modified and inter- examiner reliability (κ) found to be 0.83-0.98 which was almost perfect agreement.

Interpretation & conclusions:

The tool developed by the ICMR to assess dental fluorosis can be used in a field set up by non-dental personnel reliably with high degree of reproducibility.
Effect of lamotrigine, levetiracetam & topiramate on neurobehavioural parameters & oxidative stress in comparison with valproate in rats
Authors: Sarangi Sudhir Chandra , Kakkar Ashish Kumar , Kumar Ritesh , Gupta Yogendra Kumar
Published: November 2016

Background & objectives:

Though newer antiepileptic drugs are considered safer than conventional antiepileptics, the effects of lamotrigine, levetiracetam and topiramate on neurobehavioural functions are yet to be established. This study evaluated neurobehavioural parameters and oxidative stress markers in brain tissue of rats treated with lamotrigine, levetiracetam and topiramate compared to sodium valproate.

Methods:

Five groups of male Wistar rats were treated respectively with normal saline (control), sodium valproate (370 mg/kg), lamotrigine (50 mg/kg), levetiracetam (310 mg/kg) and topiramate (100 mg/kg) for 45 days. Neurobehavioural parameters were assessed using elevated plus maze (EPM), actophotometer, rotarod, passive avoidance and Morris water maze (MWM) at baseline and at the end of treatment. Oxidative stress parameters [malondialdehyde (MDA), reduced glutathione (GSH) and superoxide dismutase (SOD)] were estimated in rat brain at the end of treatment.

Results:

Valproate and lamotrigine showed no significant effect on learning and memory in passive avoidance and MWM tests. However, levetiracetam and topiramate reduced retention memory significantly as compared to control (P<0.01) and lamotrigine (P<0.05) groups. Performances on EPM, rotarod and actophotometer were not significantly different between the groups. In comparison to control group, MDA was higher in the levetiracetam and topiramate (360.9 and 345.9 nmol/g of homogenized brain tissue, respectively) groups. GSH and SOD activity were significantly reduced by valproate and levetiracetam treatment. Lamotrigine did not induce significant oxidative stress.

Interpretation & conclusions:

Long-term and therapeutic dose treatment with levetiracetam and topiramate significantly impaired learning and memory, which was not seen with valproate and lamotrigine in rats. Levetiracetam, topiramate and valproate augmented oxidative stress, whereas lamotrigine has little effect on it. These antiepileptic drugs are used in clinical practice, hence pharmacovigilance studies are required to evaluate their safety profile.
Трансляционно-инвариантные и периодические меры Гиббса для модели Поттса на дереве Кэли
Authors: Khakimov Rustamjon Maxmudovich , Khaidarov Farkhod Khalimzhonovich
Published: November 2016

Изучаются трансляционно-инвариантные меры Гиббса на дереве Кэли порядка $k=3$ для ферромагнитной модели Поттса с тремя состояниями. Получены явные формулы для трансляционно-инвариантных мер Гиббса. Также рассмотрены периодические меры Гиббса на дереве Кэли порядка $k$ для антиферромагнитной модели Поттса с $q$ состояниями. При этом улучшены ранее полученные результаты: найдено точное количество периодических мер Гиббса на дереве Кэли порядка $k\ge 3$ с периодом два, заданных на некоторых инвариантных множествах.
A Baseline Study of Past-Year Problem Gambling Prevalence Among Ohioans
Authors: Massatti Richard R. , Starr Sanford , Frohnapfel-Hasson Stacey , Martt Nick
Published: November 2016

Historically, the scope of legalized gambling was limited in Ohio, but everything changed when a new constitutional amendment allowed four casinos to open. To better understand the impact of gambling expansion, a household survey was commissioned to determine the baseline estimate of problem gambling behaviours in the state before casinos opened. Participants were selected through multi-stage probability sampling, with over 3,500 respondents completing valid surveys. Nearly 60% of Ohioans gambled in the past year, but the statewide prevalence of problem gambling was relatively low; only 1.4% of persons scored high enough on the Problem Gambling Severity Index to be classified as a potential problem gambler (score >3). Regional estimates of problem gambling were highest for Franklin and Hamilton counties (both 5.0%) and lowest for Lucas and Cuyahoga counties (3.2% and 2.1%, respectively). Exploratory logistic regression modelling found that race, employment, education, family history of problem gambling, and feelings of depression increased the odds of being a problem gambler. Results will inform the discussion about current gambling problems and enable policy makers to design prevention strategies.La présente étude portait sur la relation entre le prix des billets de loterie instantanée (à gratter) et la « récupération des pertes » dans un seul épisode de jeu. Pendant plusieurs mois, chaque fois qu’un billet de loterie instantanée était acheté (N = 1081), les commis de dépanneur consignaient le sexe des joueurs et le prix des billets de loterie instantanée, et indiquaient si le consommateur avait acheté un autre billet avant de quitter les lieux. L’analyse de régression logistique a montré une corrélation importante entre le prix des billets et le rachat (rapport de cotes = 0,842, p < 0,0001), ce qui suggère que la récupération au cours d’un même épisode de jeu est courante pour les billets de loterie instantanée à plus bas prix et que de plus faibles coûts ne réduisent pas nécessairement les risques.
Evolution of cooperation: The analysis of the case wherein a different player has a different benefit and a different cost
Authors: Kurokawa Shun
Published: November 2016

The existence of cooperation demands explanation in terms of natural selection. Prisoner’s dilemma is a framework often used when studying the evolution of cooperation. In prisoner’s dilemma, most previous studies consider the situation wherein an individual who cooperates will give an opponent an amount b at a personal cost of c, where b > c > 0 while an individual who defects will give nothing. This model setting is convenient; however, previous studies have not considered the case wherein a different player has a different benefit and different cost while in reality, it is natural to consider that a different player has a different benefit and different cost. Here, we raise the following question: Taking that a different individual has a different benefit and a different cost into consideration, what strategy is likely to evolve? In this paper, we focus on the direct reciprocity and analyze the case wherein a different player has a different benefit and a different cost. We obtain the condition for the evolution in the general case. And in addition, we have revealed that under a specific condition as the interaction repeats longer and the benefit-to-cost ratio is larger and the cooperating probability is more sensitive to the benefit the opponent provides, the establishment of cooperation is more likely.
On the role of tropopause folds in summertime tropospheric ozone over the eastern Mediterranean and the Middle East
Authors: Akritidis Dimitris , Pozzer Andrea , Zanis Prodromos , Tyrlis Evangelos , Škerlak Bojan , Sprenger Michael , Lelieveld Jos
Published: November 2016

Abstract. We study the contribution of tropopause folds in the summertime pool of tropospheric ozone over the eastern Mediterranean and the Middle East (EMME) with the aid of the ECHAM5/MESSy Atmospheric Chemistry (EMAC) model. Tropopause fold events in EMAC simulations were identified with a 3-D labeling algorithm that detects folds at grid points where multiple crossings of the dynamical tropopause are computed. Subsequently the events featuring the largest horizontal and vertical extent were selected for further study. For the selection of these events we identified a significant contribution of the stratospheric ozone reservoir to the high concentrations of ozone in the middle and lower free troposphere over the EMME. A distinct increase of ozone is found over the EMME in the middle troposphere during summer as a result of the fold activity, shifting towards the southeast and decreasing altitude. We find that the interannual variability of near-surface ozone over the eastern Mediterranean (EM) during summer is related to that of both tropopause folds and ozone in the free troposphere.
Effects of 3D Thermal Radiation on Cloud Development
Authors: Klinger Carolin , Mayer Bernhard , Jakub Fabian , Zinner Tobias , Park Seungbu , Gentine Pierre
Published: November 2016

Abstract. We investigate the effects of thermal radiation on cloud development in an idealized setup in large-eddy simulations with the UCLA-LES model. We investigate single convective clouds (driven by a warm bubble) and a large cumulus cloud field at 50 m horizontal resolution. We compare the newly developed 3D "neighboring column approximation" with the independent column approximation and a simulation without radiation and their respective impact on clouds. Thermal radiation causes strong local cooling at cloud tops accompanied by a modest warming at the cloud bottom, and in the case of a 3D scheme, also cloud side cooling. 3D thermal radiation causes systematically larger cooling when averaged over the model domain. In order to investigate the effects of local cooling on the clouds and to separate these local effects from a systematically larger cooling effect in the modeling domain, we apply the radiative transfer solutions in different ways. The direct effect of heating and cooling at the clouds is applied (interactive thermal radiation) in a first simulation. Furthermore, a slab-averaged applications of the 1D and 3D radiation is used to study the effect of local cloud radiation as opposed to the domain averaged effect. These simulations exhibit a cooling profile, with stronger cooling in the cloudy layers. In a final setup, we replace the radiation simulation by a uniform cooling of 2.6 K/d. For the simulations of isolated single cloud, or the cumulus cloud field with interactive radiation, we find that thermal radiation changes cloud circulation, by causing stronger updrafts and stronger subsiding shells. In our cumulus cloud field simulation we find that interactive radiation, acting locally on clouds enhances the circulation compared to the averaged radiation applications. In addition we find that thermal radiation triggers the organization of clouds. Comparing the effects of 3D and 1D thermal radiation, we find that organization effects of 3D thermal radiation are usually stronger than the 1D counterpart (either interactive or averaged). Interactive radiation leads to an earlier onset of the organization both in 1D and 3D compared to the averaged radiation application. Applying a constant cooling to the simulations leads to a similar development of the cloud field as in the case of averaged radiation, but less water condenses overall in the simulation. Generally, clouds contain more liquid water if radiation is accounted for. Furthermore, thermal radiation enhances turbulence and mixing as well as the size and lifetime of clouds. Interactive thermal radiation produces larger clouds with longer lifetimes.
Source-sector contributions to European ozone and fine PM in 2010
using AQMEII modeling data
Authors: Karamchandani Prakash , Long Yoann , Pirovano Guido , Balzarini Alessandra , Yarwood Greg
Published: November 2016

Abstract. Source apportionment modeling provides valuable information on the contributions of different source sectors and/or source regions to ozone (O3) or fine particulate matter (PM2.5) concentrations. This information can be useful in designing air quality management strategies and in understanding the potential benefits of reducing emissions from a particular source category. The Comprehensive Air quality Model with Extensions (CAMx) offers unique source attribution tools, called the Ozone and Particulate Source Apportionment Technology (OSAT/PSAT), which track source contributions. We present results from a CAMx source attribution modeling study for a summer month and a winter month using a recently evaluated European CAMx modeling database developed for Phase 3 of the Air Quality Model Evaluation International Initiative (AQMEII). The contributions of several source sectors (including boundary conditions representing transport of emissions from outside the modeling domain) to O3 or PM2.5 concentrations in Europe were calculated using OSAT and PSAT, respectively. Evaluation focused on 16 major cities and on identifying source sectors that contributed above 5 %. Boundary conditions have a large impact on summer and winter ozone in Europe and on summer PM2.5, but are only a minor contributor to winter PM2.5. Biogenic emissions are important for summer ozone and PM2.5. The important anthropogenic sectors for summer ozone are transportation (both on-road and non-road), energy production and conversion, and the industry sector. In two of the 16 cities, solvent and product also contributed above 5 % to summertime ozone. For summertime PM2.5, the important anthropogenic source sectors are the energy sector, transportation, industry, and agriculture. Residential wood combustion is an important anthropogenic sector in winter for PM2.5 over most of Europe, with larger contributions in central and eastern Europe and the Nordic cities. Other anthropogenic sectors with large contributions to wintertime PM2.5 include energy, transportation, and agriculture.
Investigating differences in DOAS retrieval codes using MAD-CAT campaign data
Authors: Peters Enno , Pinardi Gaia , Seyler André , Richter Andreas , Wittrock Folkard , Bösch Tim , Burrows John P. , Van Roozendael Michel , Hendrick François , Drosoglou Theano , Bais Alkis F. , Kanaya Yugo , Zhao Xiaoyi , Strong Kimberly , Lampel Johannes , Volkamer Rainer , Koenig Theodore , Ortega Ivan , Piters Ankie , Puentedura Olga , Navarro Mónica , Gómez Laura , Yela González Margarita , Remmers Julia , Wang Yang , Wagner Thomas , Wang Shanshan , Saiz-Lopez Alfonso , García-Nieto David , Cuevas Carlos A. , Benavent Nuria , Querel Richard , Johnston Paul , Postylyakov Oleg , Borovski Alexander , Elokhov Aleksandr , Bruchkouski Ilya , Liu Cheng , Hong Qianqian , Liu Haoran , Rivera Claudia , Grutter Michel , Stremme Wolfgang , Khokhar M. Fahim , Khayyam Junaid
Published: November 2016

Abstract. The Differential Optical Absorption Spectroscopy (DOAS) method is a well-known remote sensing technique that is nowadays widely used for measurements of atmospheric trace gases, creating the need for harmonization and characterization efforts. In this study, an intercomparison exercise of DOAS retrieval codes from 17 international groups is presented focusing on NO2 slant columns. The study is based on data collected by one instrument during the Multi-Axis DOAS Comparison campaign for Aerosols and Trace gases (MAD-CAT) in Mainz, Germany, in summer 2013. As data from the same instrument is used by all groups, the results are free of biases due to instrumental differences, which is in contrast to previous intercomparison exercises. While in general an excellent correlation of NO2 slant columns between groups of > 99.98 % (noon reference fits), and > 99.2 % (sequential reference fits) for all elevation angles is found, differences between individual retrievals are as large as 8 % for NO2 slant columns and 100 % for RMS residuals. Two kinds of disagreements were identified: (1) Absolute slant column differences were found to result predominantly from the choice of the reference spectrum. (2) Relative differences were found to originate from the numerical approach for solving the DOAS equation as well as the treatment of the slit function. Differences in the implementations of the intensity offset correction lead to disagreements for retrievals close to sunrise (8–10 % for NO2, 80 % for RMS residual). Apart from this, the largest eﬀect of ≈ 8 % difference in NO2 was found to arise from the reference treatment, in particular for ﬁts using a sequential reference. In terms of RMS ﬁt residual, the reference treatment has only a minor impact. In contrast, the wavelength calibration as well as the intensity offset correction were found to have the largest impact (up to 80 %) on RMS residual while having only a minor impact on retrieved NO2 slant columns.
Overestimation of closed chamber soil CO2 effluxes at low atmospheric turbulence
Authors: Brændholt Andreas , Steenberg Larsen Klaus , Ibrom Andreas , Pilegaard Kim
Published: November 2016

Abstract. Soil respiration (Rs) is an important component of ecosystem carbon balance and accurate quantification of the diurnal and seasonal variation of Rs is crucial for correct interpretation of the response of Rs to biotic and abiotic factors, as well as for estimating annual soil CO2 efflux rates. In this study, we measured Rs hourly for one year by automated closed chambers in a temperate Danish beech forest. The data showed a clear diurnal pattern of Rs across all seasons with higher rates during night-time than during day-time. However, further analysis showed a clear negative relationship between flux rates and friction velocity (u∗) above the canopy, suggesting that Rs was overestimated at low atmospheric turbulence throughout the year due to non-steady state conditions during measurements. Filtering out data at low u∗ values removed or even inverted the observed diurnal pattern, such that the highest effluxes were now observed during day-time, and also led to a substantial decrease in the estimated annual soil CO2 efflux. By installing fans to produce continuous turbulent mixing of air around the soil chambers, we tested the hypothesis that overestimation of soil CO2 effluxes during low u∗ can be eliminated if proper mixing of air is ensured, and indeed the use of fans removed the overestimation of Rs rates during low u∗. Artificial turbulent air mixing may thus provide a method to overcome the problems of using closed chamber gas exchange measurement techniques during naturally occurring low atmospheric turbulence conditions. Other possible effects from using fans during soil CO2 efflux measurements are discussed. In conclusion, periods with low atmospheric turbulence may provide a significant source of error in Rs rates estimated by the use of closed chamber techniques and erroneous data must be filtered out to obtain unbiased diurnal patterns, accurate relationships to biotic and abiotic factors, and before estimating Rs fluxes over longer time scales.
Framework for assessing lateral flows and fluxes during floods in a
conduit-flow dominated karst system using an inverse diffusive
model
Authors: Cholet Cybèle , Charlier Jean-Baptiste , Moussa Roger , Steinmann Marc , Denimal Sophie
Published: November 2016

Abstract. The aim of this study is to present a framework giving new keys to characterize the spatio-temporal variability of lateral exchanges for flows and fluxes in a karst conduit network during flood events. An inverse model using an analytical solution of the diffusive wave model is applied on data from two successive gauging stations to simulate exchange dynamics after recharge. The study site is the karst conduit network of the Fourbanne aquifer in the French Jura Mountains, which includes two reaches of 5–10 km characterizing the network from sinkhole to cave stream, and to the spring. The model is applied after separation of the base and the flood components on discharge and total dissolved solids (TDS) in order to assess lateral flows and mass-fluxes and compare them to help identify water origin. Our results showed various lateral contributions in space – between the two reaches located in the unsaturated (R1), and in both unsaturated and saturated zone (R2) – as well as in time, according to hydrological conditions. Globally, the two reaches show a distinct response to flood routing, with important lateral inflows on R1 and large outflows on R2. By combining these results with mass flux exchanges and the analysis of flood routing parameters distribution, we showed that lateral inflows on R1 are the addition of diffuse infiltration (observed whatever the hydrological conditions) and localized infiltration in the secondary conduit network (tributaries) in the unsaturated zone, except in extreme dry periods. On R2, despite inflows on the base component, lateral outflows are observed during floods. This pattern was attributed to the concept of reversal flows of conduit/matrix exchanges, inducing a complex water mixing effect in the saturated zone. From our results we build the functional scheme of the karst system. It demonstrates the impact of the saturated zone on matrix/conduit exchanges in this shallow phreatic aquifer, and highlights the important role of the unsaturated zone on storage and transfer functions of the system.
PREGRIDBAL 1.0: towards a high resolution rainfall atlas for the
Balearic Islands (1950–2009)
Authors: López Mayol Toni , Homar Víctor , Ramis Climent , Guijarro José Antonio
Published: November 2016

Abstract. This work presents a catalog of daily precipitation in the Balearic Islands created with data from AEMET assistant observers, including registers since 1912. The original digital daily data file has been interpolated onto a regular 100 m resolution grid (namely PREGRIDBAL), defined with the aim of becoming a valid standard for future methodological improvements and catalog upgrades. Daily precipitation amounts on each grid-point are calculated using an analysis method based on ordinary Kriging, using the daily anomaly with respect to the annual mean for all available observations each day. Due to quality concerns, the time span for products derived from the catalogue is limited to the 1950–2009 period. Therefore, from the elementary daily maps, monthly-, annual-, quinquennial-, and decadal-accumulations are produced. Similarly, the catalog allowed for quantification of climate trends in rainfall amounts in the Balearic Islands, with the significant advantage of minimising the biases originated from heterogeneities in the spatial distribution of stations across the archipelago. Results show a general decrease in precipitation during the 1950–2009 period. From 1950 to 1979, the average annual precipitation across the islands was 624,3 mm, while from 1980 to 2009 diminished to 555,36 mm. Changes in precipitation patterns, which vary among the different areas, are also detected. Most significant reductions (over 80 % significance on the trend) are found in the north half of the archipelago and especially in Mallorca, where the Tramuntana mountain range stands out. All seasonal trends show a decrease, with values ranging between 1 and 3 mm per decade, with the exception of autumn, which reaches up to 7 mm per decade. October shows the most dramatic decrease (−10,34 mm per decade) and, conversely, September and November show an increase in precipitation (3,28 and 1,82 mm per decade, respectively) with a statistical significance above 85 % in almost all the archipelago, and even exceeding 95 % in the Pitiüses.
Spatial distribution of turbulent mixing in the upper ocean of the South China Sea
Authors: Shang Xiao-Dong , Liang Chang-Rong , Chen Gui-Ying
Published: November 2016

Abstract. The spatial distribution of the dissipation rate ε and diapycnal diffusivity κ in the upper ocean of the South China Sea (SCS) is presented from a measurement program conducted from April 26 to May 23 2010. In the vertical distribution, the dissipation rates were predominantly high in the thermocline where the shear and stratification were strong. In the regional distribution, high dissipation rate ε and diapycnal diffusivity κ were observed in west of the Luzon Strait with an averaged ε and κ of 8.3×10−9 W kg−1 and 2.7×10−5 m2 s−1, respectively, almost one order of magnitude higher than those in the central and southern SCS. In the west of the Luzon Strait, the water column was characterized by strong shear and weak stratification. Elevated dissipation rates (ε >10−7 W kg−1) and diapycnal diffusivity (κ >10−4 m2 s−1) induced by shear instability occurred in the water column. In the central and southern SCS, the water column was characterized by strong stratification and weak shear and the turbulent mixing was weak. The observed dissipation rates were found to scale positively with the shear and stratification, which was consistent with the MacKinnon-Gregg model used for the continental shelf, but different from the Gregg-Henyey scaling used for the open ocean.
Political Aspect of the Saving – Investment Gap in Croatia
Authors: Piplica Damir
Published: November 2016

All the Governments of Croatia should acknowledge the importance of the economic policy
that will encourage higher saving rates thus enabling correlation with the investment rate with
the scope of reaching important macroeconomic goals, such as the GDP and employment
rates increase, etc., without in any way endangering the macroeconomic stability of the
national economy. Regardless of the great impact savings had on the investments, the
implementation of the economic or investment policy on behalf of the Right-wing
Government of Croatia had a great impact in creating the discrepancy in the
saving-investment ratio, than it was the case with the Left-wing Government of Croatia. If the
Right–wing Government of Croatia starts implementing the economic policy with the sole
scope of reaching higher saving rates than the former ones, complying with their ideology,
and focusing less on how to opportunistically reach middle voters, they will influence
effectively the saving and investment correlation, thus lessening the saving-investment gap
and reaching the macroeconomic stability. However, if the Right-wing Government
opportunistically turn to the “middle voters” instead of following their ideology`s programme,
this could lead to the decrease in efficiency of some economic policy measures with the goal
of reaching a certain saving-investment correlation. On the other hand, with the growth in
saving rates, Left-wing Government of Croatia can influence effectively its correlation with
the investment rates, but still in a lesser proportion compared to the Right–wing Government
of Croatia. With the Left–wing Government of Croatia opportunistically orienting on the
“middle voters” that would facilitate their position in achieving the macroeconomic stability
and thus enforcing their influence on the saving-investment correlation, as would not be the
case if only complying with their left oriented party`s programme.
Are There Any Changes in Posterior Ocular Structure Parameters in Pediatric Migraine Patients?
Authors: Nalcacioglu Pinar , Taslipinar Uzel Ayse G. , Uzel Mehmet M. , Cagil Nurullah , Citak Kurt Aysegul N.
Published: November 2016

Purpose

To evaluate the thickness of the peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL), total macula, macular ganglion cell layer (GCL), inner plexiform layer (IPL), and choroid in pediatric migraine patients and compare the values with healthy subjects.

Methods

This observational and cross-sectional study included 40 patients in the migraine group and 40 healthy control subjects. The thickness of the peripapillary RNFL, total macula, GCL, and IPL was analyzed with spectral-domain optic coherence tomography, while choroidal thickness was analyzed with the enhanced depth imaging protocol. All measurements of the migraine patients were taken in the attack-free period. Right eye selected per subject was included in the study.

Results

There was no significant difference between the 2 groups in age or sex (p>0.05). The peripapillary RNFL thickness was not significantly different between the 2 groups in any quadrant. The total macula, GCL, and IPL thickness were also not significantly different in the 9 separate macular areas defined on the basis of the Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study (p>0.05). The choroidal thickness at 5 different measurement points was not statistically significantly different between migraine patients during the attack-free period and the healthy subjects (p>0.05).

Conclusions

Childhood migraine does not cause changes in posterior ocular structure parameters.
The Expression of FAT1 is Associated with Overall Survival in Children with Medulloblastoma
Authors: Yu Jianzhong , Li Hao
Published: November 2016

Purpose

The FAT1 gene is involved in some cancers; however, its role in medulloblastoma is less clear. This study investigated the effects of FAT1 expression on the prognosis of medulloblastoma patients.

Methods

Whole exome sequencing was undertaken in 40 medulloblastoma patient samples. FAT1 mRNA and protein expression levels in normal and brain tumor tissues were determined by fluorescence quantitative PCR and immunohistochemistry, respectively. The association of FAT1 expression with overall survival (OS) was examined by Kaplan-Meier curve analysis with a log-rank test. Following lentiviral-mediated FAT1 knockdown using shRNA in Daoy cells, proliferation, Wnt signaling, and β-catenin protein expression were determined.

Results

Eight FAT1 missense mutations were detected in 7 patients. FAT1 mRNA expression in tumors was significantly lower than in adjacent normal tissue ( p = 0.043). The OS of patients with high FAT1 protein expression was significantly longer than that of patients with low FAT1 protein expression (median survival time: 24.3 vs 4.8 months, respectively; p = 0.002). shFAT1 cells had significantly higher proliferation rates than shControl cells ( p≤0.028). Furthermore, the mRNA expression of LEF1, β-catenin, and cyclin D1 was significantly upregulated in shFAT1-Daoy cells ( p≤0.018).

Conclusions

Low FAT1 expression was associated with poor prognosis in children with medulloblastoma. Furthermore, FAT1 may act on Wnt signaling pathway to exert its antitumor effect.
“Comedy of Errors”: The Correspondence between Edith Wharton and John Murray in the National Library of Scotland
Authors: Girling Anna
Published: November 2016

John Murray was effectively Edith Wharton's first British publisher, bringing out three of her works between 1900 and 1902: The Touchstone (1900) (in Britain, A Gift from the Grave), Crucial Instances (1901), and The Valley of Decision (1902). The correspondence between Wharton and Murray, until recently unknown to Wharton scholars, sheds light on the composition of, and Wharton's stated intentions for, the texts in question, as well as on her early professional evolution. This article places this correspondence in the context of Wharton's early career, and examines some of the correspondence between Wharton and Murray in detail (that concerning The Valley of Decision, in particular).
Physicians’ job satisfaction in their begin, mid and end career stage
Authors: Schmit Jongbloed Lodewijk J. , Schönrock-Adema Johanna , Borleffs Jan C.C , Stewart Roy E. , Cohen-Schotanus Janke
Published: November 2016

Objective: To examine whether physicians differ in job satisfaction in different career stages, controlling for “gender”, “specialty area” and “level of income”.Methods: Survey of three cohorts of physicians who started studying in 1972-75 (n = 704), 1982/83 (n = 301) and 1992/93 (n = 296) at the University of Groningen. Physicians in the begin, mid and end career stage practiced for 10, 20 and 30 years respectively. Data were collected by telephonic interviews and written questionnaires. We selected 13 job satisfaction aspects which could be mapped unto Ostroff’s taxonomy of organizational climate perceptions. Influences of gender, specialty area and level of income were taken into account.Results: Physicians in begin, mid and end career stage differed on eight aspects. Taking into account gender, specialty area and level of income, differences between career stages were significant for three aspects: appreciation from support personnel, appreciation from patients and satisfaction with income. Specialty area was the most important covariate.Conclusions: Physicians from different career stages differed in job satisfaction, but specialty area accounted to a large extent for these differences. We recommend taking into account physicians’ career stage, gender and specialty area when studying physicians’ job satisfaction.
Raman Spectroscopy: A Sensitive and Specific Technique for Determining the Accuracy of Compounded Pharmaceutical Formulations
Authors: Meek Claudia , Hoe Jihye , Evans Jason , Thurman Rosanne , Ashworth Lisa , Leff Richard
Published: November 2016

OBJECTIVES:

Raman spectroscopy is a widely used technology to identify chemical unknowns or confirm chemical identity. We have tested Raman spectrometry to identify compounded pharmaceutical formulations. In contrast to the commonly used application mentioned above, compounded pharmaceutical formulations contain a mixture of ingredients, and the Raman spectrometer is being used to correctly identify the composition of the complete pharmaceutical formulation, including the active pharmaceutical ingredient(s). The objective of this pilot study was to document the potential use of Raman spectroscopy as a tool to provide quality control to compounded pharmaceutical formulations.

METHODS:

“Testing a test” study design was used to prospectively determine whether Raman spectroscopy could verify the accuracy of compounded pharmaceutical formulations. A total of 9 formulations that are commonly compounded at Cook Children's Health Center were selected for testing. Each of the 9 formulations and 2 blank controls were randomly tested for compounding accuracy in replicate. A total of 110 tests were conducted.

RESULTS:

Raman spectroscopy was found to be a reliable test to determine the accuracy of compounded pharmaceutical formulations with a 100% positive predictive value.

CONCLUSIONS:

Raman spectroscopy promises to be an excellent tool for compounding pharmacies to provide an objective measure of compounding accuracy to their unique, compounded pharmaceutical formulations.
A Prospective Pilot Study on the Systemic Absorption of Oral Vancomycin in Children With Colitis
Authors: Antoon James W. , Hall Margaret , Metropulos Diana , Steiner Michael J. , Jhaveri Ravi , Lohr Jacob A.
Published: November 2016

BACKGROUND:

Oral vancomycin is used to treat refractory colitis due to Clostridium dificile infection. Traditionally, oral vancomycin was thought to not be absorbed systemically, but recent adult studies have demonstrated detectable serum levels in over half of patients with severe colitis. This has not been studied in children.

OBJECTIVE:

To determine the absorption of oral vancomycin and the renal safety profile of oral vancomycin in children hospitalized with colitis.

METHODS:

We performed a prospective, observational, pilot proof of principle study at the North Carolina Children's Hospital in patients 2 years to 18 years of age receiving oral vancomycin for the treatment of C dificile colitis. Severity of disease was determined using a validated scoring system. Serial serum vancomycin levels and renal function tests were performed during the administration of oral vancomycin.

RESULTS:

All patients enrolled (n = 8) had mild to moderate C dificile colitis and varying severity of underlying systemic diseases; 7 with inflammatory bowel disease and 1 with acute kidney injury following renal transplantation. No enrolled patients had detectable levels of serum vancomycin. Additionally, no adverse renal outcomes were attributed to oral vancomycin, and no cases of “Red Man” syndrome were observed.

CONCLUSIONS:

Unlike studies in adult patients, oral vancomycin is likely not absorbed in children with mild to moderate colitis. Further study is needed to determine the pharmacokinetics in severe colitis and those with severe illness in a critical care setting.
Preoperative Antibiotic Orders: Protocol-Initiated Pharmacist Order Entry
Authors: Hyde Ben B. , Ogden Richard K. , Berger Ron D. , VanBrimmer Brad W. , Stach Leslie M.
Published: November 2016

OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate the antibiotic selection of preoperative orders before and after a pharmacist order entry protocol for patients with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) colonization.

METHODS:

A retrospective chart review of orthopedic surgery procedures on patients with MRSA colonization at a free-standing, academic pediatric hospital, between February 2010 and February 2012.

RESULTS:

Procedures that were performed pre protocol (n = 27) implementation had a 63% rate of appropriate antibiotic selection compared to 81% in the postprotocol group (n = 32; p = 0.1155). The preprotocol group dose accuracy was 96% compared to 97% in the postprotocol group (p = 0.81). Two procedures, 1 in each group, were redosed appropriately for extended surgery duration. Correct timing of antibiotic administration occurred in 82% of cases pre protocol versus 68% post protocol (p = 0.42).

CONCLUSIONS:

Patients with MRSA colonization had a greater rate of appropriate drug selection after the implementation of a pharmacist-initiated preoperative protocol. Correct antibiotic dose and redose remained consistent between the study groups. Most of the orthopedic procedures performed included patients on antibiotic coverage at steady state for ongoing infections, which impacted the analysis of preoperative timing. Further studies should be conducted to assess whether the increase in the number of appropriate antibiotic selections decreases the rate of postoperative MRSA infections.
Accidental Epidural Injection of Rocuronium in a Pediatric Patient: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Wu Ting-Ting , Hoff David S.
Published: November 2016

Accidental administration of non-epidural drugs into the epidural or subarachnoid spaces may be associated with unexpected pain, morbidity, adverse effects, increased level of care, prolonged hospital stay, and mortality. We describe a 12-month-old admitted for secondary-stage hypospadias reconstruction. General anesthesia was induced with sevofiurane and a peripheral catheter was placed. Instead of ropivacaine, rocuronium (80 mg; 6.3 mg/kg) was injected into the epidural space by the caudal route. Surgery was uneventful and was completed 160 minutes after rocuronium was given. The patient exhibited paralysis with 1 of 4 twitches to the train-of-four with some posttetanic potentiation at the end of surgery. He was transferred to the pediatric intensive care unit for supportive ventilation and recovery. He did not experience oxygen desaturation or hypoventilation between the time of rocuronium administration and intubation. He was hemodynamically stable, without respiratory insufficiency, and his neurologic exam was normal, without motor or sensorial block. The patient was discharged home on the morning of the first postoperative day. Clinical examination 1 week after surgery revealed no lasting sequelae from the error.
Grandir au camp. Diversité culturelle, convivialité et identité ethnique
Authors: Grayson Catherine-Lune
Published: November 2016

Le camp de réfugiés de Kakuma, au Kenya, est remarquable en raison de sa diversité culturelle. Des réfugiés d’une douzaine de pays y cohabitent. Cet article s’intéresse à la nature de cette coexistence et à ses effets sur l’identité ethnique de jeunes Somaliens qui ont grandi au camp. Nous soutenons ici qu’une culture conviviale s’y est développée, mais que l’ethnicité structure toujours la vie sociale. Nous soulignons ensuite que l’expérience du camp influence les appartenances des jeunes, et nous relevons que le camp peut être considéré comme un espace de résistance. Ce faisant, nous montrons que des notions tirées de la littérature sur la cohabitation interethnique dans les villes ou sur l’identité ethnique des immigrants sont pertinentes pour comprendre l’expérience des réfugiés dans les camps.
Heteroepitaxial growth of ε-Ga2O3 thin films on cubic (111) MgO and (111) yttria-stablized zirconia substrates by mist chemical vapor deposition
Authors: Nishinaka Hiroyuki , Tahara Daisuke , Yoshimoto Masahiro
Published: November 2016

In this study, epitaxial ε-Ga2O3 thin films are successfully grown on cubic (111) MgO and (111) yttria-stablized zirconia (YSZ) substrates by mist chemical vapor deposition. Pure-phase hexagonal ε-Ga2O3 thin films are grown on the two substrates with a c-axis orientation determined by X-ray diffraction (XRD) 2θ–ω scanning. XRD pole figure measurements reveal that the in-plane orientation relationship between the (0001) of ε-Ga2O3 and the (111) of the two substrates is ε-Ga2O3

∥ substrates

. Using (111) MgO substrates with a 2.5% lattice mismatch, the epitaxial ε-Ga2O3 films are successfully grown at a low temperature of 400 °C. The optical direct and indirect bandgaps of pure ε-Ga2O3 thin films are estimated as 5.0 and 4.5 eV, respectively.
Plasmon–exciton interaction and screening of exciton in ZnO-based thin film on bulk Pt as analyzed by spectroscopic ellipsometry
Authors: Darma Yudi , Satrya Christoforus Dimas , Marlina Resti , Kurniawan Robi , Herng Tun Seng , Ding Jun , Rusydi Andrivo
Published: November 2016

We study plasmon–exciton interaction in ZnO-based thin film on bulk Pt by using high resolution spectroscopic ellipsometry. ZnO films on quartz are used as reference. This study shows the strong electronic interactions between ZnO film and Pt by considering the significant suppression of exciton in ZnO film, in comparison to ZnO film on quartz. We found that plasmon in Pt are responsible to provide transferred electron for electronic blocking of exciton in ZnO film induce by spontaneous recombination from Pt. In the case of Cu doped ZnO film, we confirm screening effects on exciton and a localized interband transition for both systems (ZnO film on Pt and ZnO film on quartz). In Cu-doped ZnO film, electronic blocking of exciton by Pt plasmon is more pronounce rather than screening effect by interband transition. Our results show the importance of plasmon from substrate and doping to modify the optical properties of wide bandgap semiconductor.
RDOA based Emitter Localization using Constrained Least Square Algorithm under NLOS Environment
Authors: Lee K. , Oh J. , You K.
Published: November 2016

The emitter localization is a significant problem in many fields such as target tracking, wireless communication, radar and many types of mobile application; In this paper, we apply Kalman filter and constrained least square (CLS) algorithm for compensating these noises. With the proposed two algorithms, we can confirm high accuracy for localization. A simulation demonstrates the performance of our proposed algorithm.
Frequency Behavior of Conformal Wire Structures
Authors: Leone G. , Mattiello F. , Ruvio G. , Pierri R.
Published: November 2016

Three-dimensional models are built to examine the frequency behavior of wire structures conforming onto nonplanar surfaces. The effects of altered periodicity on frequency selectiveness of the structures are considered. An analogy is drawn with the antenna impedance behavior of a single active wire surrounded by a number of passive similar ones. Numerical simulations are performed for different wire geometries over a conical surface.
Analysis of Reflector Antennas in Radio Telescopes
Authors: Yeap K. H. , Loh M. C. , Tham C. Y. , Yiam C. Y. , Yeong K. C. , Lai K. C.
Published: November 2016

We present an analysis on the performance of the Cassegrain and Gregorian on-axis, off-axis and offset antennas. In our study, we have adopted the design parameters for the Cassegrain configuration used in the Atacama Large Millimeter Array (ALMA) project. Modifications on the original parameters are made so as to meet the design requirement for the off-axis and offset configurations. To reduce spillover loss in the offset antennas, we have adjusted the angle between the axis of the primary reflector and that of the sub-reflector, so that the feed horn is placed right next to the edge of the primary reflector. This is to allow the offset antennas to receive the highest power at the feed horn. The results obtained from the physical optics simulation show that the radiation characteristics of both Cassegrain and Gregorian antennas are similar. The offset designs exhibit the best performance, followed by the on-axis, and, finally, the off-axis designs. Our analysis also shows that the performance of both offset Cassegrain and Gregorian antennas are comparable to each other.
Typification of ten taxa in the genus Actinodaphne Nees (Lauraceae) in India
Authors: Jose Robi Aloor
Published: November 2016

Recent studies on the Indian genus Actinodaphne revealed that several names need typification. From the available syntypes, we designate lectotypes here for each of the following names: A. bourdillonii, A. campanulata, A. campanualata var. obtusa, A. hookeri, A. hookeri var. glabrata, A. hookeri var. longifolia, A. lawsonii, A. madraspatana, A. salicina and A. tadulingamii.