bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aetiological aspects of west syndrome
Authors: Marjanovic Borivoj , Djuric Milena , Zamurovic Dragan , Kravljanac Ruzica , Vlahovic Gordana , Komazec Dijana
Published: July 2015

INTRODUCTION. West Syndrome involves epileptic encephalopathy in infants,
occurring with an incidence of 5/10000 live births. Its main clinical feature
are spasms that occur in clusters, which are associated with an EEG pattern
called hypsarrhythmia and psychomotor retardation in most patients. West
Syndrome is associated with many underlying conditions and the terms
idiopathic, cryptogenic, and symptomatic are used for its aetiological
subgroups. OBJECTIVE. The objective of this investigation was to determine
the aetiological diagnosis of patients with West Syndrome and to compare the
results with other studies. METHOD. In this 34-year longitudinal prospective
one-centre study, 404 patients were studied. All patients exhibiting the
diagnostic criteria for West Syndrome were investigated by clinical and
neurological examination, EEG, ophthalmologic, psychological, metabolic,
genetic, as well as neuroradiological methods, according to their particular
indications. RESULTS. 36 (8.9%) patients had normal development, in whom
infantile spasms occurred without any identifiable underlying cause, forming
the idiopathic group. 51 patients (12.6%) with neurological impairment of
unknown aetiology formed the cryptogenic group. The greatest number of
patients (317 or 78.5%) formed the symptomatic group, in which neurological
features and developmental delay preceded the onset of spasms. Disgenetic
disorders and hereditary metabolic diseases were aetiological factors 44
(10.8%) patients. Prenatal and perinatal aetiological factors were revealed
in one third of the patients (134 or 31%). Postnatal aetiological factors
were revealed in 42 (10.2%) patients. In our study, disgenetic disorders were
registered less frequently and perinatal complications more frequently than
in other studies. CONCLUSION. Our results indicate the possibility of
preventing West Syndrome with good quality obstetric and neonatal care, as
well as the early prenatal diagnosis of brain malformations. Modern,
sophisticated investigation makes the more accurate aetiological diagnosis of
West Syndrome possible.
Clinical pathology
Authors: Dimitrijevic Jovan
Published: July 2015

This work describes the basic elements of pathology used in clinical
practice. Pathology plays an important role in clinical and scientific work,
but only a few areas of pathology will be covered. Although the contribution
of oncological and surgical pathology to therapy is the most well known, the
cases chosen here will involve infectious pathology, diseases of the kidney
and the liver, autoimmune diseases, as well as organ transplantation.
Especially important is the description of methods that enable more accurate
morphological diagnoses, such as histochemistry, immunohistochemistry,
immunofluorescence, and electronic microscopy. Previous experience and joint
work with clinical doctors have enabled the definition of significant
morphological elements as well as of essential methods of pathohistological
diagnosis. Besides, as is often the case, although disease symptoms are
difficult to discern and biochemical results do not show significant changes
compared to normal values, the results of biopsy come as a surprise to
clinical doctors. For example, in virus hepatitis B involving socalled
asymptomatic HBsAg carriers, we discovered every morphological form of
hepatitis, from minimal lesions to chronic, persistent, and active hepatitis.
With hepatitis C, certain morphological lesions point to the etiopathogenesis
of this disease and thus help to confirm the diagnosis and to instigate
therapy on time. Another significant experience involves kidney biopsies in
cases when clinical findings are asymptomatic. Often, in such cases,
morphological findings point to glomerulonephritis and glomerulopathy at
different stages. Timely and subtle morphological diagnostics offer a more
precise explanation for the pathological injury of tissues than other
diagnostic methods. In this way, by adopting new methods, the work of
pathologists is included more and more in everyday clinical practice. The
inclusion of pathologists in a transplantation team makes sure a proper
selection of the organ for transplantation is carried out and ensures a
reliable evaluation of the condition of the transplanted organ, enabling
appropriate therapy. Autoimmune, hereditary diseases are almost impossible to
recognise unless a biopsy is performed as in the examples given. In this
work, the 30-year-long results of the cooperation between clinical doctors
and pathologists are presented and compared with similar results from modern
literature, together with numerous examples that represent significant
experiences and achievements of our medicine.
Factors influencing general practitioners and specialists of general practice to declare in favor of accepting the role of family doctors
Authors: Lapcevic Mirjana , Dimitrijevic Ivan , Ristic Jelena , Vukovic Mira , Nikolic Radivoje , Stanojevic Petar
Published: July 2015

INTRODUCTION. Protection and promotion of health of an individual, family and
society as the whole depends on the organization and efficiency of the public
health service. Modern health service is focused on the health prevention and
improvement of the family which is the basic unit of society. The life cycle
of the family indicates crisis related to development and underdevelopment as
well as some expected and unexpected life situations and this is very
important when discussing about many somatic and mental diseases. objective
The objective of our project which included 473 specialists of general
practice and 355 general practitioners was to determine the factors which
influence the positive attitude of the general practitioners about becoming a
family doctor. METHOD. A total of 828 doctors in Serbia were required to
answer the set of eight questions. Statistical analysis included Pearson chi
square test with contingency tables and logistic regression, while dependent
variable was doctor?s attitude about becoming a family doctor in a certain
situation. The answer ?no? or ?I don?t know? was scored 1 point and the ?yes?
answer was graded 2 points. Eight questions mentioned above were independent
variables. RESULTS. Logistic model accounting for 79.3% of dependent variable
was obtained. Positive attitude of doctors was very much affected by family
problems and great majority of these doctors were specialists of general
practice. Other questions were not so important for our results. CONCLUSION.
Specialists of general practice, regardless of their working experience and
years of practice, gave significantly more positive answers, and the
situation was quite opposite with general practitioners. Family medicine
supported by modern information systems provides ideal model of comprehensive
and complete health prevention with high level of rationalism, quality,
efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
Water quality: Legislation - our country and European Union
Authors: Kristoforovic-Ilic Miroslava
Published: July 2015

Water quality and water supply system in our country are primarily related to
inadequate environment management in 1990s, due to poor economic situation in
the country and insufficient investments. With a view to improve conditions
of environment, strategic documents at various levels have been adopted. One
of these, water-supply basis for Serbia 2002-2012, was adopted by Government
of the Republic of Serbia in 2002, which defined basic strategy for water
management. Law on Environment Protection (2004) provides basis and
possibility of further applicability of EU directions complying with
respective standards. Apparent trend in this field is tendency of setting up
certain standards for each purpose (Council Directive 75/440/EEC, Council
Directive 76/160/EEC) as well as for some types of water systems (rivers,
lakes, ground waters). Our paper presents the most important regulations of
the Republic Serbia and EU in the field of water quality management, control
of water quality in our country, monitoring, that would, followed by adequate
information system, contribute to quality improvement of ambient and drinking
waters.
Explaining Fetal Death—What are the Contributions of Fetal Autopsy and Placenta Examination?
Authors: Opsjøn Bente Ediassen , Vogt Christina
Published: July 2015

The aim of our study was to categorize fetal deaths by different diagnostic groups and see to what extent an autopsy of a presumably normal fetus contributes to the final diagnosis and how many unexplained fetal deaths remain unexplained after examination of the placenta. We reviewed autopsy reports of 351 fetuses with a gestational age of 12 or more weeks at the Department of Pathology and Medical Genetics at St Olavs Hospital during the years 2001 through 2010. In our records, 38.5% (135 of 351) of the deaths were due to noninfectious placenta causes, 31.6% (111 of 351) were caused by infections, and 29.9% (105 of 351) of the fetal deaths remained unexplained after autopsy. We also found that an inconclusive report was more common early in pregnancy. The incidence of fetal loss due to circulatory disturbances in the placenta increased toward term. Infections were evenly distributed in intrauterine fetal deaths, although in spontaneous abortions, they were more frequent during the second trimester. For both explained and unexplained deaths, we observed a bimodal distribution, with peaks in the early second trimester and late third trimester toward term.
Novel Association of Odontogenic Myxoma with Constitutional Chromosomal 1q21 Microduplication: Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Best-Rocha Alejandro , Patel Kalyani , Hicks John , Edmonds Joseph L. , Paldino Michael J. , Wu Hao
Published: July 2015

Odontogenic myxoma (OM) is a rare, benign, and locally aggressive tumor. It tends to occur in the posterior maxilla and mandible and is often associated with root resorption and perforation of cortex. Histopathologically, there is a proliferation of spindle, bipolar, and stellate cells, with bland nuclei within a myxoid to infrequently fibromyxoid extracellular matrix. Long, thin residual bony trabeculae are often seen floating within the spindle cell proliferation because of the infiltrating nature of this tumor, and these trabeculae impart a “soap bubble” or “tennis-racket” radiologic appearance. No syndromic association of OM has been reported. Although similar histopathologic features are shared with cardiac myxoma and soft tissue myxoma, mutations in the GNAS gene have not been identified in OM to date, and only 2 of 17 OMs showed mutations in the PRKAR1A gene. In this report, we describe a case of OM in a patient with constitutional 1q21 microduplication, a locus that harbors genes encoding certain proteins in the cAMP-dependent protein kinase A (PKA) signaling pathway, including G-protein-coupled receptors and 1 phosphodiesterase interacting protein. Review of the literature describes the key clinical features and molecular pathogenesis of 1q21 microduplication, as well as highlighting the role of PKA signaling pathway in the pathogenesis of myxomas in general.
The Incidence of Thyroid Carcinoma in Multinodular Goiter: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Shrestha D. , Shrestha S.
Published: July 2015

Background and Objective: To determine the incidence and the types of various thyroid malignancies in multi-nodular goiter.Material and methods: This is a retrospective study, conducted in Department of ENT and Head and Neck Surgery, National Academy of Medical Sciences Bir Hospital Kathmandu and Alka Hospital Pvt. Ltd Lalitpur. The study period was 3 years from 11 January 2011 to 10 January 2014. The study population consisted of 100 patients who were diagnosed as a multinodular thyroid nodule.Result: The highest frequency was 50 (50%) in 31-40 years. Among the total cases, 28 (28%) were males and 72(72%) females. Histopathological analysis showed that benign multi-nodular goiter was present in 87 (87%) cases, and malignant thyroid lesion in 13 (13%) cases. Among malignancies, papillary carcinoma was found as the commonest malignancy 11 (84.61%) cases followed by follicular carcinoma 1 (7.69%) case and anaplastic carcinoma 1(7.69%) case.Conclusion: The risk of malignancy in multinodular goiter should not be underestimated as significant number of patients with thyroid malignancies present with multinodular goiter.JCMS Nepal 2014; 10(4):18-21
Continuing the Journey of Education, Training and Research
Authors: Koirala Amit , Adhikari Ekaraj
Published: July 2015

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jtd.v1i0.13082Journal of Training and Development Vol.1 2015: 1-2
Assessing the Effectiveness of Teacher Training Programs to Improve the Quality of School Education in Nepal
Authors: Subedi Bhawani Shankar
Published: July 2015

Inadequate transfer of knowledge, skills, attitudes and behaviours from the training environment to the workplace environment has emerged as a global issue. Teachers’ training has not been an exception. Available literature on teacher training indicates that the contribution of training can be assessed at least on six dimensions- quality, access, equity, efficiency, teacher development and overall school development. Studies conducted in the area of teacher training or teacher professional development in the context of Nepal are also evident of lack of sufficient transfer of knowledge and skills from training to workplace. There are several factors facilitating or inhibiting the extent of such transfer. Research shows that the training of teachers has contributed and can positively influence quality of education if stakeholders are made aware of and well informed about the quality and relevance of training and development interventions carefully designed and implemented for the capacity development of teachers, teacher educators or trainers. This article has been derived from the synopsis of a comprehensive study conducted in Nepal and concluded in March 2010. Data bases of 4033 trained teachers of 45 schools from 25 sample districts were studied. This study was a blending of quantitative as well as qualitative approaches. Nine education experts and 22 field researchers were involved. The author was the team leader of the study. The only academic purpose of this article is to inspire excellence in teaching, learning and performance by means of professionalism and capacity building of teachers, teacher trainers and their employers. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jtd.v1i0.13084 Journal of Training and Development Vol.1 2015: 9-14
Technical Education and Vocational Training for Sustainable Development
Authors: Bagale Shiba
Published: July 2015

Technical Education and Vocational Training is taken as an integral part of the national development. This has an important role in the national sustainable development. The knowledge, skills and attitudes are the overall aspects of the lifelong learning. In the context of Nepal, it has provided skills and jobs to many people who are away from the general education having several barriers within them. TEVT covers all the FIETS aspects of sustainability. This study has tried to highlight the major essence of the Technical Education and Vocational Training for the Sustainable Development of the nation. This paper has made an attempt to promote the TEVT through the perspectives of sustainable development. So it has highlighted on the aspects of education for sustainable development and the barriers behind it.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jtd.v1i0.13085 Journal of Training and Development Vol.1 2015: 15-20
Necessity of Technical and Vocational Education for Conflict Victims
Authors: Devkota Shree Prasad
Published: July 2015

This paper explores the impact of ten years armed conflict on Nepalese People, analyzing how these people are coping the situation in post conflict. Some international practices for conflict victim’s related literature are also presented here. It then considers the forms of reparation and how human rights principles, particularly those regarding the best interests and evolving capacities of the people can help guide program design through TVET program. Ultimately, this analysis shows that people-oriented reparations should be tailored to people’s particular vulnerabilities, needs, and circumstances.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jtd.v1i0.13087 Journal of Training and Development Vol.1 2015: 27-32
Short Term Vocational Skill Test in Nepalese Context
Authors: Pasa Rajan Binayek
Published: July 2015

This paper assesses the possible contribution of short term vocational skill tested graduates and labour migration in foreign employment and remittances to Nepalese economy.  An attempt has also been made to assess the role of effective skill testing system that can be provided even in local level as for equal accessibility to all skilled workforces throughout the country. Producing skill tested graduates is known to be a process of human capital formation that is equally benefitted to self and society. Due to easy access of government policy, Nepalese youths are working in international labour market and at a time when the country's major economic indicators are not favorable, the remittances have played a vital role in national economic growth. Though remittances earning is a boon to the economy, the facilities are inadequate to back up the increasing trend of migration. Inadequate knowledge on skill testing system and lack of skill training and poor opportunities to involve in trade specific work are some of bottlenecks to Nepalese youths. This paper suggests that formulation and effective implementation of short term vocational skill testing system in local level is the need of today so that most of foreign labour migrants can grab semi-skilled employment opportunities through specific vocational skill tested certification. The government needs to play a proactive role to promote foreign employment by inducting and adhering to the policy of socio-economic development and human capital formation. Replicating the status and impact of short term vocational skill tested graduates and migrated labour in foreign employment, state mechanism has to be endorsed in our national context for development and promotion of skill testing mechanism in local level and regularization of foreign employment. In such a situation, majority of youths could get opportunities to take skill tested certificate that can encourage them to become a vocational skill and trade occupation specific. Such types of work specification could ultimately increase working efficiency and productivity of each workforce and economic prosperity of the country.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jtd.v1i0.13091 Journal of Training and Development Vol.1 2015: 54-61
Integrating risk management data in quality improvement initiatives within an academic neurosurgery department
Authors: McLaughlin Nancy , Garrett Matthew C. , Emami Leila , Foss Sarah K. , Klohn Johanna L. , Martin Neil A.
Published: July 2015

OBJECT

While malpractice litigation has had many negative impacts on health care delivery systems, information extracted from lawsuits could potentially guide toward venues to improve care. The authors present a comprehensive review of lawsuits within a tertiary academic neurosurgical department and report institutional and departmental strategies to mitigate liability by integrating risk management data with quality improvement initiatives.

METHODS

The Comprehensive Risk Intelligence Tool database was interrogated to extract claims/suits abstracts concerning neurosurgical cases that were closed from January 2008 to December 2012. Variables included demographics of the claimant, type of procedure performed (if any), claim description, insured information, case outcome, clinical summary, contributing factors and subfactors, amount incurred for indemnity and expenses, and independent expert opinion in regard to whether the standard of care was met.

RESULTS

During the study period, the Department of Neurosurgery received the most lawsuits of all surgical specialties (30 of 172), leading to a total incurred payment of $4,949,867. Of these lawsuits, 21 involved spinal pathologies and 9 cranial pathologies. The largest group of suits was from patients with challenging medical conditions who underwent uneventful surgeries and postoperative courses but filed lawsuits when they did not see the benefits for which they were hoping; 85% of these claims were withdrawn by the plaintiffs. The most commonly cited contributing factors included clinical judgment (20 of 30), technical skill (19 of 30), and communication (6 of 30).

CONCLUSIONS

While all medical and surgical subspecialties must deal with the issue of malpractice and liability, neurosurgery is most affected both in terms of the number of suits filed as well as monetary amounts awarded. To use the suits as learning tools for the faculty and residents and minimize the associated costs, quality initiatives addressing the most frequent contributing factors should be instituted in care redesign strategies, enabling strategic alignment of quality improvement and risk management efforts.
Microendoscopy-guided percutaneous cordotomy for intractable pain: case series of 24 patients
Authors: Fonoff Erich Talamoni , Lopez William Omar Contreras , de Oliveira Ywzhe Sifuentes Almeida , Teixeira Manoel Jacobsen
Published: July 2015

OBJECT

The aim of this study was to show that microendoscopic guidance using a double-channel technique could be safely applied during percutaneous cordotomy and provides clear real-time visualization of the spinal cord and surrounding structures during the entire procedure.

METHODS

Twenty-four adult patients with intractable cancer pain were treated by microendoscopic-guided percutaneous radiofrequency (RF) cordotomy using the double-channel technique under local anesthesia. A percutaneous lateral puncture was performed initially under fluoroscopy guidance to localize the target. When the subarachnoid space was reached by the guiding cannula, the endoscope was inserted for visualization of the spinal cord and surrounding structures. After target visualization, a second needle was inserted to guide the RF electrode. Cordotomy was performed by a standard RF method.

RESULTS

The microendoscopic double-channel approach provided real-time visualization of the target in 91% of the cases. The other 9% of procedures were performed by the single-channel technique. Significant analgesia was achieved in over 90% of the cases. Two patients had transient ataxia that lasted for a few weeks until total recovery.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of percutaneous microendoscopic cordotomy with the double-channel technique is useful for specific manipulations of the spinal cord. It provides real-time visualization of the RF probe, thereby adding a degree of safety to the procedure.
“Rescue” of bilateral subthalamic stimulation by bilateral pallidal stimulation: case report
Authors: Matias Caio M. , Silva Danilo , Machado Andre G. , Cooper Scott E.
Published: July 2015

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) of the subthalamic nucleus (STN) orglobus pallidus pars interna (GPi) is well established as a treatment for advanced Parkinson’s disease. In general, one of the 2 targets is chosen based on the clinical features of each patient. Stimulation of both targets could be viewed as redundant, given that the 2 targets are directly connected. However, it is possible that each target has different mechanisms, with clinical effects mediated by orthodromic or antidromic stimulation.

The authors report the case of a patient with severe Parkinson’s disease who had previously undergone bilateral subthalamic stimulation with excellent benefits. However, he presented with significant worsening associated with disease progression and pharmacological treatment, and then underwent bilateral GPi DBS. Follow-up assessment was conducted clinically as well as through blinded ratings of video recordings.

Pallidal DBS may be a safe and useful strategy to manage dystonic features and behavioral complications of subthalamic stimulation and pharmacological management. While combined stimulation was quite successful in the reported patient, further studies with larger samples and longer follow-up periods will be necessary before recommending the addition of pallidal DBS as a routine strategy for patients previously implanted with STN DBS.
Complications and outcomes of vasopressor usage in acute traumatic central cord syndrome
Authors: Readdy William J. , Whetstone William D. , Ferguson Adam R. , Talbott Jason F. , Inoue Tomoo , Saigal Rajiv , Bresnahan Jacqueline C. , Beattie Michael S. , Pan Jonathan Z. , Manley Geoffrey T. , Dhall Sanjay S.
Published: July 2015

OBJECT

The optimal mean arterial pressure (MAP) for spinal cord perfusion after trauma remains unclear. Although there are published data on MAP goals after spinal cord injury (SCI), the specific blood pressure management for acute traumatic central cord syndrome (ATCCS) and the implications of these interventions have yet to be elucidated. Additionally, the complications of specific vasopressors have not been fully explored in this injury condition.

METHODS

The present study is a retrospective cohort analysis of 34 patients with ATCCS who received any vasopressor to maintain blood pressure above predetermined MAP goals at a single Level 1 trauma center. The collected variables were American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) grades at admission and discharge, administered vasopressor and associated complications, other interventions and complications, and timing of surgery. The relationship between the 2 most common vasopressors—dopamine and phenylephrine—and complications within the cohort as a whole were explored, and again after stratification by age.

RESULTS

The mean age of the ATCCS patients was 62 years. Dopamine was the most commonly used primary vasopressor (91% of patients), followed by phenylephrine (65%). Vasopressors were administered to maintain MAP goals fora mean of 101 hours. Neurological status improved by a median of 1 ASIA grade in all patients, regardless of the choice of vasopressor. Sixty-four percent of surgical patients underwent decompression within 24 hours. There was no observed relationship between the timing of surgical intervention and the complication rate. Cardiogenic complications associated with vasopressor usage were notable in 68% of patients who received dopamine and 46% of patients who received phenylephrine. These differences were not statistically significant (OR with dopamine 2.50 [95% CI 0.82–7.78], p = 0.105). However, in the subgroup of patients > 55 years, dopamine produced statistically significant increases in the complication rates when compared with phenylephrine (83% vs 50% for dopamine and phenylephrine, respectively; OR with dopamine 5.0 [95% CI 0.99–25.34], p = 0.044).

CONCLUSIONS

Vasopressor usage in ATCCS patients is associated with complication rates that are similar to the reported literature for SCI. Dopamine was associated with a higher risk of complications in patients > 55 years. Given the increased incidence of ATCCS in older populations, determination of MAP goals and vasopressor administration should be carefully considered in these patients. While a randomized control trial on this topic may not be practical, a multiinstitutional prospective study for SCI that includes ATCCS patients as a subpopulation would be useful for examining MAP goals in this population.
Ginkgo leaf sign: a highly predictive imaging feature of spinal meningioma
Authors: Yamaguchi Satoshi , Takeda Masaaki , Takahashi Toshiyuki , Yamahata Hitoshi , Mitsuhara Takafumi , Niiro Tadaaki , Hanakita Junya , Hida Kazutoshi , Arita Kazunori , Kurisu Kaoru
Published: July 2015

OBJECT

Spinal meningioma and schwannoma are the most common spinal intradural extramedullary tumors, and the differentiation of these 2 tumors by CT and MRI has been a matter of debate. The purpose of this article is to present a case series of spinal meningiomas showing unique imaging features: a combination of a fan-shaped spinal cord and a streak in the tumor. The authors termed the former imaging feature “ginkgo leaf sign” and evaluated its diagnostic value.

METHODS

The authors present 7 cases of spinal meningioma having the ginkgo leaf sign. Thirty spinal extramedullary tumors arising lateral or ventrolateral to the spinal cord were studied to evaluate the diagnostic value of the ginkgo leaf sign for spinal meningiomas. Among 30 cases, 12 tumors were spinal meningiomas and 18 tumors from the control group were all schwannomas.

RESULTS

Seven of the 12 spinal meningiomas were positive for the ginkgo leaf sign. The sign was not present in the control group tumors. The overall ability to use the ginkgo leaf sign to detect meningioma indicated a sensitivity of 58%, specificity of 100%, positive predictive value of 100%, and negative predictive value of 78%.

CONCLUSIONS

The ginkgo leaf sign is highly specific to spinal meningiomas arising lateral or ventrolateral to the spinal cord. In the present series, the ginkgo leaf sign was perfectly predictive for spinal meningioma.
Participation of S. Typhimurium cysJIH Operon in the H2S-mediated Ciprofloxacin Resistance in Presence of Sulfate as Sulfur Source
Authors: Álvarez Ricardo , Frávega Jorge , Rodas Paula , Fuentes Juan , Paredes-Sabja Daniel , Calderón Iván , Gil Fernando
Published: July 2015

H2S production has been proposed as a mechanism to explain bacterial resistance to antibiotics. In this work, we present evidence for the role of the cysJIH operon in resistance to ciprofloxacin mediated by H2S production with different sulfate as the only sulfur source. We found that the products of the cysJIH operon are involved in ciprofloxacin resistance by increasing both, the levels of H2S and reduced thiols apparently counteracting antimicrobial-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS). This protective effect was observed only when bacteria were cultured in the presence of sulfate, but not with cysteine, as the sole sulfur source.
Airborne Aerosol in Situ Measurements during TCAP: A Closure Study of Total Scattering
Authors: Kassianov Evgueni , Berg Larry , Pekour Mikhail , Barnard James , Chand Duli , Flynn Connor , Ovchinnikov Mikhail , Sedlacek Arthur , Schmid Beat , Shilling John , Tomlinson Jason , Fast Jerome
Published: July 2015

We present a framework for calculating the total scattering of both non-absorbing and absorbing aerosol at ambient conditions from aircraft data. Our framework is developed emphasizing the explicit use of chemical composition data for estimating the complex refractive index (RI) of particles, and thus obtaining improved ambient size spectra derived from Optical Particle Counter (OPC) measurements. The feasibility of our framework for improved calculations of total scattering is demonstrated using three types of data collected by the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) aircraft during the Two-Column Aerosol Project (TCAP). Namely, these data types are: (1) size distributions measured by a suite of OPC’s; (2) chemical composition data measured by an Aerosol Mass Spectrometer and a Single Particle Soot Photometer; and (3) the dry total scattering coefficient measured by a integrating nephelometer and scattering enhancement factor measured with a humidification system. We demonstrate that good agreement (~10%) between the observed and calculated scattering can be obtained under ambient conditions (RH < 80%) by applying chemical composition data for the RI-based correction of the OPC-derived size spectra. We also demonstrate that ignoring the RI-based correction or using non-representative RI values can cause a substantial underestimation (~40%) or overestimation (~35%) of the calculated scattering, respectively.
Neural Adaptation Effects in Conceptual Processing
Authors: Marino Barbara , Borghi Anna , Gemmi Luca , Cacciari Cristina , Riggio Lucia
Published: July 2015

We investigated the conceptual processing of nouns referring to objects characterized by a highly typical color and orientation. We used a go/no-go task in which we asked participants to categorize each noun as referring or not to natural entities (e.g., animals) after a selective adaptation of color-edge neurons in the posterior LV4 region of the visual cortex was induced by means of a McCollough effect procedure. This manipulation affected categorization: the green-vertical adaptation led to slower responses than the green-horizontal adaptation, regardless of the specific color and orientation of the to-be-categorized noun. This result suggests that the conceptual processing of natural entities may entail the activation of modality-specific neural channels with weights proportional to the reliability of the signals produced by these channels during actual perception. This finding is discussed with reference to the debate about the grounded cognition view.
Supertall Asia/Middle East: Technological Responses and Contextual Impacts
Authors: Moon Kyoung
Published: July 2015

Supported by rapid economic growth, major cities in Asia and the Middle East have been rising as new centers for tall buildings. This article reviews the state of tall building developments in Asian and Middle Eastern countries with an emphasis on supertall buildings, with their greater urban and global impacts. Focusing primarily on physical construction, this article examines technological responses for building tall in Asian and Middle Eastern contexts. The architectural transformation and globalization of what was once called the “American Building Type” in Asian and Middle Eastern countries is studied. Sustainable design technology transfer and adjustment in Asian and Middle Eastern climates are presented. Further, future prospects on supertall design in Asian and Middle Eastern contexts are discussed.
Cyclic GMP and Cilia Motility
Authors: Wyatt Todd
Published: July 2015

Motile cilia of the lungs respond to environmental challenges by increasing their ciliary beat frequency in order to enhance mucociliary clearance as a fundamental tenant of innate defense. One important second messenger in transducing the regulable nature of motile cilia is cyclic guanosine 3′,5′-monophosphate (cGMP). In this review, the history of cGMP action is presented and a survey of the existing data addressing cGMP action in ciliary motility is presented. Nitric oxide (NO)-mediated regulation of cGMP in ciliated cells is presented in the context of alcohol-induced cilia function and dysfunction.
Evaluation of Photocatalytic Properties of Portland Cement Blended with Titanium Oxynitride (TiO2−xNy) Nanoparticles
Authors: Cohen Juan , Sierra-Gallego G. , Tobón Jorge
Published: July 2015

Photocatalytic activity of Portland cement pastes blended with nanoparticles of titanium oxynitride (TiO2−xNy) was studied. Samples with different percentages of TiO2−xNy (0.0%, 0.5%, 1%, 3%) and TiO2 (1%, 3%) were evaluated in order to study their self-cleaning properties. The presence of nitrogen in the tetragonal structure of TiO2 was evidenced by X-ray diffraction (XRD) as a shift of the peaks in the 2θ axis. The samples were prepared with a water/cement ratio of 0.5 and a concentration of Rhodamine B of 0.5 g/L. After 65 h of curing time, the samples were irradiated with UV lamps to evaluate the reduction of the pigment. The color analysis was carried out using a Spectrometer UV/Vis measuring the coordinates CIE (Commission Internationale de l’Eclairage) L*, a*, b*, and with special attention to the reddish tones (Rhodamine B color) which correspond to a* values greater than zero. Additionally, samples with 0.5%, 1%, 3% of TiO2−xNy and 1%, 3% of TiO2 were evaluated under visible light with the purpose of determining the Rhodamine B abatement to wavelengths greater than 400 nm. The results have shown a similar behavior for both additions under UV light irradiation, with 3% being the addition with the highest photocatalytic efficiency obtained. However, TiO2−xNy showed activity under irradiation with visible light, unlike TiO2, which can only be activated under UV light.
The Intrinsic Cause-Effect Power of Discrete Dynamical Systems—From Elementary Cellular Automata to Adapting Animats
Authors: Albantakis Larissa , Tononi Giulio
Published: July 2015

Current approaches to characterize the complexity of dynamical systems usually rely on state-space trajectories. In this article instead we focus on causal structure, treating discrete dynamical systems as directed causal graphs—systems of elements implementing local update functions. This allows us to characterize the system’s intrinsic cause-effect structure by applying the mathematical and conceptual tools developed within the framework of integrated information theory (IIT). In particular, we assess the number of irreducible mechanisms (concepts) and the total amount of integrated conceptual information Φ specified by a system. We analyze: (i) elementary cellular automata (ECA); and (ii) small, adaptive logic-gate networks (“animats”), similar to ECA in structure but evolving by interacting with an environment. We show that, in general, an integrated cause-effect structure with many concepts and high Φ is likely to have high dynamical complexity. Importantly, while a dynamical analysis describes what is “happening” in a system from the extrinsic perspective of an observer, the analysis of its cause-effect structure reveals what a system “is” from its own intrinsic perspective, exposing its dynamical and evolutionary potential under many different scenarios.
Optimization of the Changing Phase Fluid in a Carnot Type Engine for the Recovery of a Given Waste Heat Source
Authors: Blaise Mathilde , Feidt Michel , Maillet Denis
Published: July 2015

A Carnot type engine with a changing phase during the heating and the cooling is modeled with its thermal contact with the heat source. In a first optimization, the optimal high temperature of the cycle is determined to maximize the power output. The temperature and the mass flow rate of the heat source are given. This does not take into account the converter internal fluid and its mass flow rate. It is an exogenous optimization of the converter. In a second optimization, the endogenous optimization, the isothermal heating corresponds only to the vaporization of the selected fluid. The maximization of the power output gives the optimal vaporization temperature of the cycled fluid. Using these two optima allows connecting the temperature of the heat source to the working fluid used. For a given temperature level, mass flow rate and composition of the waste heat to recover, an optimal fluid and its temperature of vaporization are deduced. The optimal conditions size also the internal mass flow rate and the compression ratio (pump size). The optimum corresponds to the maximum of the power output and must be combined with the environmental fluid impact and the technological constraints.
Leaf Area Prediction Using Three Alternative Sampling Methods for Seven Sierra Nevada Conifer Species
Authors: Jones Dryw , O'Hara Kevin , Battles John , Gersonde Rolf
Published: July 2015

Prediction of projected tree leaf area using allometric relationships with sapwood cross-sectional area is common in tree- and stand-level production studies. Measuring sapwood is difficult and often requires destructive sampling. This study tested multiple leaf area prediction models across seven diverse conifer species in the Sierra Nevada of California. The best-fit whole tree leaf area prediction model for overall simplicity, accuracy, and utility for all seven species was a nonlinear model with basal area as the primary covariate. A new non-destructive procedure was introduced to extend the branch summation approach to leaf area data collection on trees that cannot be destructively sampled. There were no significant differences between fixed effects assigned to sampling procedures, indicating that data from the tested sampling procedures can be combined for whole tree leaf area modeling purposes. These results indicate that, for the species sampled, accurate leaf area estimates can be obtained through partially-destructive sampling and using common forest inventory data.
Prevalence and Determinants of Anemia and Iron Deficiency in Kuwait
Authors: Al Zenki Sameer , Alomirah Husam , Al Hooti Suad , Al Hamad Nawal , Jackson Robert , Rao Aravinda , Al Jahmah Nasser , Al Obaid Ina'am , Al Ghanim Jameela , Al Somaie Mona , Zaghloul Sahar , Al Othman Amani
Published: July 2015

The objective of this study was to assess the prevalence of anemia and iron deficiency (ID) of a nationally representative sample of the Kuwait population. We also determined if anemia differed by socioeconomic status or by RBC folate and vitamins A and B12 levels. The subjects who were made up of 1830 males and females between the ages of 2 months to 86 years, were divided into the following age groups (0–5, 5–11, 12–14, 15–19, 20–49, ≥50 years). Results showed that the prevalence of anemia was 3% in adult males and 17% in females. The prevalence of ID varied according to age between 4% (≥50 years) and 21% (5–11 years) and 9% (12–14 years) and 23% (15–19 years), respectively, in males and females. The prevalence of anemia and ID was higher in females compared to males. Adults with normal ferritin level, but with low RBC folate and vitamins A and B12 levels had higher prevalence of anemia than those with normal RBC folate and vitamins A and B12 levels. This first nationally representative nutrition and health survey in Kuwait indicated that anemia and ID are prevalent and ID contributes significantly to anemia prevalence.
Tobacco-Specific Nitrosamines in Electronic Cigarettes: Comparison between Liquid and Aerosol Levels
Authors: Farsalinos Konstantinos , Gillman Gene , Poulas Konstantinos , Voudris Vassilis
Published: July 2015

Introduction: Although electronic cigarette (EC) liquids contain low levels of tobacco-specific nitrosamines (TSNAs), studies evaluating the levels emitted to the aerosol are scarce. The purpose of this study was to compare the levels of TSNAs between liquids and generated aerosol. Methods: Three EC liquids were obtained from the market. An additional (spiked) sample was prepared by adding known amounts of standard TSNAs solutions to one of the obtained liquids. N-nitrosonornicotine (NNN), N-nitrosoanatabine (NAT), N-nitrosoanabasine (NAB) and 4-(methylnitrosamino)1-(3-pyridyl)-1-butanone (NNK) were measured. Three 100-puff sets from each liquid were trapped in filter pads and were subsequently analyzed for the presence of TSNAs. The expected levels of TSNAs (calculated based on the liquid consumption) were compared with the measured levels in the aerosol. Results: Only NAB was found at trace levels in two commercial liquids (1.2 and 2.3 ng/g), while the third contained 1.5 ng/g NAB and 7.7 ng/g NNN. The 100-puff sets resulted in 336–515 mg liquid consumption, with no TSNAs being detected in the aerosol. The spiked sample contained 42.0–53.9 ng/g of each of the TSNAs. All TSNAs were detected in the aerosol with the measured levels being statistically similar to the expected amounts. A significant correlation between expected and measured levels of TSNAs in the aerosol was found (r = 0.83, p < 0.001). Conclusion: The findings of this study show that exposure of EC users to TSNAs can be accurately assessed based on the levels present in the liquid, without the need to analyze the aerosol.
Short-Term Effect of Ambient Temperature and the Risk of Stroke: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Lian Hui , Ruan Yanping , Liang Ruijuan , Liu Xiaole , Fan Zhongjie
Published: July 2015

Background and Purpose: The relationship between stroke and short-term temperature changes remains controversial. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to investigate the association between stroke and both high and low temperatures, and health assessment. Methods: We searched PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) and Wanfang Data up to 14 September 2014. Study selection, quality assessment, and author-contractions were steps before data extraction. We converted all estimates effects into relative risk (RR) per 1 °C increase/decrease in temperature from 75th to 99th or 25th to 1st percentiles, then conducted meta-analyses to combine the ultimate RRs, and assessed health impact among the population. Results: 20 articles were included in the final analysis. The overall analysis showed a positive relationship between 1 °C change and the occurrence of major adverse cerebrovascular events (MACBE), 1.1% (95% confidence intervals (CI), 0.6 to 1.7) and 1.2% (95% CI, 0.8 to 1.6) increase for hot and cold effects separately. The same trends can be found in both effects of mortality and the cold effect for morbidity. Hot temperature acted as a protective factor of hemorrhage stroke (HS), −1.9% (95% CI, −2.8 to −0.9), however, it acted as a risk factor for ischemic stroke (IS), 1.2% (95% CI, 0.7 to 1.8). Conclusion: Short-term changes of both low and high temperature had statistically significant impacts on MACBE.
Progress and Prospects of Anti-HBV Gene Therapy Development
Authors: Maepa Mohube , Roelofse Ilke , Ely Abdullah , Arbuthnot Patrick
Published: July 2015

Despite the availability of an effective vaccine against hepatitis B virus (HBV), chronic infection with the virus remains a major global health concern. Current drugs against HBV infection are limited by emergence of resistance and rarely achieve complete viral clearance. This has prompted vigorous research on developing better drugs against chronic HBV infection. Advances in understanding the life cycle of HBV and improvements in gene-disabling technologies have been impressive. This has led to development of better HBV infection models and discovery of new drug candidates. Ideally, a regimen against chronic HBV infection should completely eliminate all viral replicative intermediates, especially covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA). For the past few decades, nucleic acid-based therapy has emerged as an attractive alternative that may result in complete clearance of HBV in infected patients. Several genetic anti-HBV strategies have been developed. The most studied approaches include the use of antisense oligonucleotides, ribozymes, RNA interference effectors and gene editing tools. This review will summarize recent developments and progress made in the use of gene therapy against HBV.
RNase L Cleavage Products Promote Switch from Autophagy to Apoptosis by Caspase-Mediated Cleavage of Beclin-1
Authors: Siddiqui Mohammad , Mukherjee Sushovita , Manivannan Praveen , Malathi Krishnamurthy
Published: July 2015

Autophagy and apoptosis share regulatory molecules enabling crosstalk in pathways that affect cellular homeostasis including response to viral infections and survival of tumor cells. Ribonuclease L (RNase L) is an antiviral endonuclease that is activated in virus-infected cells and cleaves viral and cellular single-stranded RNAs to produce small double-stranded RNAs with roles in amplifying host responses. Activation of RNase L induces autophagy and apoptosis in many cell types. However, the mechanism by which RNase L mediates crosstalk between these two pathways remains unclear. Here we show that small dsRNAs produced by RNase L promote a switch from autophagy to apoptosis by caspase-mediated cleavage of Beclin-1, terminating autophagy. The caspase 3-cleaved C-terminal fragment of Beclin-1 enhances apoptosis by translocating to the mitochondria along with proapoptotic protein, Bax, and inducing release of cytochrome C to the cytosol. Cleavage of Beclin-1 determines switch to apoptosis since expression of caspase-resistant Beclin-1 inhibits apoptosis and sustains autophagy. Moreover, inhibiting RNase L-induced autophagy promotes cell death and inhibiting apoptosis prolongs autophagy in a cross-inhibitory mechanism. Our results demonstrate a novel role of RNase L generated small RNAs in cross-talk between autophagy and apoptosis that impacts the fate of cells during viral infections and cancer.