bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analytical Study of Common Rigid Steel Connections under the Effect of Heat
Authors: Rahnavard Rohola , Siahpolo Navid , Naghavi Mohammad , Hassanipour Akbar
Published: December 2014

One of the most important members of steel structure’s connection region is beam-to-column connection. Rigid connection in steel moment frame has special role in the behavior of these structures and the fire resistance of these connections can be important. In this paper the behaviors of three common types of rigid connections in Iran under the effect of heat were studied by the use of numerical finite element methods through ABAQUS software. The models were verified by the use of an experimental model through elastic and plastic amplitudes up to collapse and during numerical results, and the effect of large deformation in the nonlinear region has also been considered. The results show that the connection with the end plate had a better performance against heat than other connections. Also reduced stiffness and lateral buckling in this connection were less than other connections.
Nanoporous Activated Carbon Derived from Rice Husk for High Performance Supercapacitor
Authors: Xu Huaxing , Gao Biao , Cao Hao , Chen Xueyang , Yu Ling , Wu Kai , Sun Lan , Peng Xiang , Fu Jijiang
Published: December 2014

Nanoporous activated carbon material was produced from the waste rice husks (RHs) by precarbonizing RHs and activating with KOH. The morphology, structure, and specific surface area were investigated. The nanoporous carbon has the average pore size of 2.2 nm and high specific area of 2523.4 m2 g−1. The specific capacitance of the nanoporous carbon is calculated to be 250 F g−1 at the current density of 1 A g−1 and remains 80% for 198 F g−1 at the current density of 20 A g−1. The nanoporous carbon electrode exhibits long‐term cycle life and could keep stable capacitance till 10,000 cycles. The consistently high specific capacitance, rate capacity, and long‐term cycle life ability makes it a potential candidate as electrode material for supercapacitor.
The Effect of Angipars on Diabetic Neuropathy in STZ-Induced Diabetic Male Rats: A Study on Behavioral, Electrophysiological, Sciatic Histological and Ultrastructural Indices
Authors: Zangiabadi Nasser , Mohtashami Hossein , Hojatipour Mahboobeh , Jafari Mandana , Asadi-Shekaari Majid , Shabani Mohammad
Published: December 2014

Diabetes mellitus is the most common metabolic disease with a high prevalence rate in human society that eventually leads to the peripheral nervous system complications in a great number of patients. In the present study, the effects of Angipars on nerve conduction velocity, histological alterations, and behavioral indices were investigated. Diabetes was induced in male rats by intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (STZ). Six weeks after STZ injection, animals were divided into five groups control, vehicle, and 3 experimental groups. The vehicle group received 1 mL distilled water daily for two weeks and three experimental groups received, respectively, intraperitoneal injection of 5, 10, and 20 mg/kg Angipars daily for two weeks. Intraperitoneal injection of Angipars, in some extent, could significantly improve behavioral indices of the experimental groups as compared to the vehicle group. Furthermore, mean nerve conduction velocity in the vehicle group showed significant difference with that in the control and the 2nd experimental groups; therefore, Angipars could increase nerve conduction velocity in neuropathic rats. Overall, Angipars exerted positive effects on the treatment and reduction of physiologic symptoms and improvement of sciatic morphological injuries in neuropathic rats.
Test Generation Algorithm for Fault Detection of Analog Circuits Based on Extreme Learning Machine
Authors: Zhou Jingyu , Tian Shulin , Yang Chenglin , Ren Xuelong
Published: December 2014

This paper proposes a novel test generation algorithm based on extreme learning machine (ELM), and such algorithm is cost-effective and low-risk for analog device under test (DUT). This method uses test patterns derived from the test generation algorithm to stimulate DUT, and then samples output responses of the DUT for fault classification and detection. The novel ELM-based test generation algorithm proposed in this paper contains mainly three aspects of innovation. Firstly, this algorithm saves time efficiently by classifying response space with ELM. Secondly, this algorithm can avoid reduced test precision efficiently in case of reduction of the number of impulse-response samples. Thirdly, a new process of test signal generator and a test structure in test generation algorithm are presented, and both of them are very simple. Finally, the abovementioned improvement and functioning are confirmed in experiments.
A Rare Soft Tissue Tumor Masquerading as a Parathyroid Adenoma in a Patient with Birt-Hogg-Dubé Syndrome and Multiple Cervical Endocrinopathies
Authors: Mikesell Kael V. , Kulaylat Afif N. , Donaldson Keri J. , Saunders Brian D. , Crist Henry S.
Published: December 2014

Birt-Hogg-Dubé (BHD) syndrome is an autosomal dominant disorder that presents with renal tumors, pulmonary cysts with spontaneous pneumothoraces, and skin hamartomas. We present a case of a 67-year-old female with multiple endocrinopathies and a history of BHD syndrome. In 2011, a thyroidectomy with a four-gland parathyroidectomy was performed for toxic multinodular goiter (TMNG) and parathyroid hyperplasia. On frozen section, a tumor was identified next to a hypercellular parathyroid. After being worked up, this tumor was determined to be an adult rhabdomyoma. This represents the first time that both TMNG and parathyroid hyperplasia have been present in a BHD patient. Additionally, this is the first adult rhabdomyoma reported in a patient with BHD syndrome. Adult rhabdomyomas have no reported associations; however, potential colocation of the mutation in BHD syndrome and translocation in adult rhabdomyomas on chromosome 17p suggests a possible connection. Further work is needed to better understand this connection.
Recent Progress in Processing of Tungsten Heavy Alloys
Authors: Şahin Y.
Published: December 2014

Tungsten heavy alloys (WHAs) belong to a group of two-phase composites, based on W-Ni-Cu and W-Ni-Fe alloys. Due to their combinations of high density, strength, and ductility, WHAs are used as radiation shields, vibration dampers, kinetic energy penetrators and heavy-duty electrical contacts. This paper presents recent progresses in processing, microstructure, and mechanical properties of WHAs. Various processing techniques for the fabrication of WHAs such as conventional powder metallurgy (PM), advent of powder injection molding (PIM), high-energy ball milling (MA), microwave sintering (MW), and spark-plasma sintering (SPS) are reviewed for alloys. This review reveals that key factors affecting the performance of WHAs are the microstructural factors such as tungsten and matrix composition, chemistry, shape, size and distributions of tungsten particles in matrix, and interface-bonding strength between the tungsten particle and matrix in addition to processing factors. SPS approach has a better performance than those of others, followed by extrusion process. Moreover, deformation behaviors of WHA penetrator and depleted uranium (DU) Ti alloy impacting at normal incidence both rigid and thick mild steel target are studied and modelled as elastic thermoviscoplastic. Height of the mushroomed region is smaller for α=0.3 and it forms sooner in each penetrator as compared to that for α=0.2.
Adaptive Reference Image Set Selection in Automated X-Ray Inspection
Authors: Xiao Xinhua , Ferro Andrew , Ma Tao , Han Chia Y. , Zhou Xuefu , Wee William
Published: December 2014

The automatic radioscopic inspection of industrial parts usually uses reference based methods. These methods select, as benchmark for comparison, image data from good parts to detect the anomalies of parts under inspection. However, parts can vary within the specification during the production process, which makes comparison of older reference image sets with current images of parts difficult and increases the probability of false rejections. To counter this variability, the reference image sets have to be updated. This paper proposes an adaptive reference image set selection procedure to be used in the assisted defect recognition (ADR) system in turbine blade inspection. The procedure first selects an initial reference image set using an approach called ADR Model Optimizer and then uses positive rate in a sliding-time window to determine the need to update the reference image set. Whenever there is a need, the ADR Model Optimizer is retrained with new data consisting of the old reference image sets augmented with false rejected images to generate a new reference image set. The experimental result demonstrates that the proposed procedure can adaptively select a reference image set, leading to an inspection process with a high true positive rate and a low false positive rate.
Tissue Damage Markers after a Spinal Manipulation in Healthy Subjects: A Preliminary Report of a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Achalandabaso A. , Plaza-Manzano G. , Lomas-Vega R. , Martínez-Amat A. , Camacho M. V. , Gassó M. , Hita-Contreras F. , Molina F.
Published: December 2014

Spinal manipulation (SM) is a manual therapy technique frequently applied to treat musculoskeletal disorders because of its analgesic effects. It is defined by a manual procedure involving a directed impulse to move a joint past its physiologic range of movement (ROM). In this sense, to exceed the physiologic ROM of a joint could trigger tissue damage, which might represent an adverse effect associated with spinal manipulation. The present work tries to explore the presence of tissue damage associated with SM through the damage markers analysis. Thirty healthy subjects recruited at the University of Jaén were submitted to a placebo SM (control group;n=10), a single lower cervical manipulation (cervical group;n=10), and a thoracic manipulation(n=10). Before the intervention, blood samples were extracted and centrifuged to obtain plasma and serum. The procedure was repeated right after the intervention and two hours after the intervention. Tissue damage markers creatine phosphokinase (CPK), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), C-reactive protein (CRP), troponin-I, myoglobin, neuron-specific enolase (NSE), and aldolase were determined in samples. Statistical analysis was performed through a3×3mixed-model ANOVA. Neither cervical manipulation nor thoracic manipulation did produce significant changes in the CPK, LDH, CRP, troponin-I, myoglobin, NSE, or aldolase blood levels. Our data suggest that the mechanical strain produced by SM seems to be innocuous to the joints and surrounding tissues in healthy subjects.
Catalase Activity in Brown Mussels (Perna perna) under Acute Cadmium, Lead, and Copper Exposure and Depuration Tests
Authors: Boudjema Kamel , Kourdali Sidali , Bounakous Nabila , Meknachi Abdellah , Badis Abdelmalek
Published: December 2014

Brown mussels (Perna perna) were exposed to cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), and copper (Cu) concentrations under acute exposure and exposure-depuration tests for the estimation of biochemical biomarker catalase (CAT). The acute tests showed accumulated Cd, Pb, and Cu inPerna pernacorrelated linearly with the exposure concentrations (R2=0.794,R2=0.891, andR2=0.985for Cd, Pb, and Cu, resp.). The results of CAT increased significantly in tissues of treatment mussels after 72 h exposure when compared to control. The values of total protein were disturbed in exposed groups when compared with control. These results suggest that metabolites and catalase activity were affected by heavy metal exposures. Analysis using the Spearman rank correlation coefficient showed that the CAT activity appeared to have a significant positive correlativity (Rs=0.921,Rs=0.949, andRs=0.949for Cd, Pb, and Cu, resp.) with the accumulated Cd, Pb, and Cu concentrations, respectively. The result of exposure-depuration tests showed that there is a general tendency for CAT to decrease in depuration phase, suggesting that the induction of catalase is metal and/or mixture of metals dependent.
A New Look at Worst Case Complexity: A Statistical Approach
Authors: Singh Niraj Kumar , Chakraborty Soubhik , Mallick Dheeresh Kumar
Published: December 2014

We present a new and improved worst case complexity model for quick sort as yworst(n,td)=b0+b1n2+g(n,td)+ɛ, where the LHS gives the worst case time complexity, n is the input size, td is the frequency of sample elements, and g(n,td) is a function of both the input size n and the parameter td. The rest of the terms arising due to linear regression have usual meanings. We claim this to be an improvement over the conventional model; namely, yworst(n)=b0+b1n+b2n2+ɛ, which stems from the worst case O(n2) complexity for this algorithm.
The Effects of Skin-to-Skin Contact on Temperature and Breastfeeding Successfulness in Full-Term Newborns after Cesarean Delivery
Authors: Beiranvand Shourangiz , Valizadeh Fatemeh , Hosseinabadi Reza , Pournia Yadollah
Published: December 2014

Background. The skin-to-skin contact (SSC) of mother and newborn is uncommon full-term newborns after delivering via cesarean section due to the possibility of hypothermia in the infants. The aim of this study was to compare mothers’ and infant’s temperatures after delivering via cesarean section.Material and Methods. In this randomized clinical trial, 90 infant/mothers dyads delivered via cesarean section were randomized to SSC (n=46) and routine care (n=44). In experimental group, skin-to-skin contact was performed for one hour and in the routine group the infant was dressed and put in the cot according to hospital routine care. The newborns’ mothers’ temperatures in both groups were taken at half-hour intervals. The data was analyzed using descriptive statistics,t-tests, and chi-square tests.Results. The means of the newborns’ temperatures immediately after SSC (P=0.86), half an hour (P=0.31), and one hour (P=0.52) after the intervention did not show statistically significant differences between the two groups. The mean scores of the infants’ breastfeeding assessment in SSC (8.76±3.63) and routine care (7.25±3.5) groups did not show significant differences (P=0.048).Conclusion. Mother and infant’s skin-to-skin contact is possible after delivering via cesarean section and does not increase the risk of hypothermia.
Extracting Time-Resolved Information from Time-Integrated Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectra
Authors: Grifoni Emanuela , Legnaioli Stefano , Lezzerini Marco , Lorenzetti Giulia , Pagnotta Stefano , Palleschi Vincenzo
Published: December 2014

Laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) data are characterized by a strong dependence on the acquisition time after the onset of the laser plasma. However, time-resolved broadband spectrometers are expensive and often not suitable for being used in portable LIBS instruments. In this paper we will show how the analysis of a series of LIBS spectra, taken at different delays after the laser pulse, allows the recovery of time-resolved spectral information. The comparison of such spectra is presented for the analysis of an aluminium alloy. The plasma parameters (electron temperature and number density) are evaluated, starting from the time-integrated and time-resolved spectra, respectively. The results are compared and discussed.
Polysomnographic Features of Sleep Disturbances and REM Sleep Behavior Disorder in the Unilateral 6-OHDA Lesioned Hemiparkinsonian Rat
Authors: Vo Quynh , Gilmour Timothy P. , Venkiteswaran Kala , Fang Jidong , Subramanian Thyagarajan
Published: December 2014

Sleep pattern disruption, specifically REM sleep behavior disorder (RBD), is a major nonmotor cause of disability in PD. Understanding the pathophysiology of these sleep pattern disturbances is critical to find effective treatments. 24-hour polysomnography (PSG), the gold standard for sleep studies, has never been used to test sleep dysfunction in the standard 6-OHDA lesioned hemiparkinsonian (HP) rat PD model. In this study, we recorded 24-hour PSG from normal and HP rats. Recordings were scored into wake, rapid eye movement (REM), and non-REM (NREM). We then examined EEG to identify REM periods and EMG to check muscle activity during REM. Normal rats showed higher wakefulness (70–80%) during the dark phase and lower wakefulness (20%) during the light phase. HP rats showed 30–50% sleep in both phases, less modulation and synchronization to the light schedule(P<0.0001), and more long run lengths of wakefulness(P<0.05). HP rats also had more REM epochs with muscle activity than control rats(P<0.05). Our findings that the sleep architecture in the HP rat resembles that of PD patients demonstrate the value of this model in studying the pathophysiological basis of PD sleep disturbances and preclinical therapeutics for PD related sleep disorders including RBD.
From Prejudice to Evidence: The Case of Rhizoma Coptidis in Singapore
Authors: Ho Chin Ee , Goh You Li , Zhang Chang
Published: December 2014

Rhizoma Coptidis (RC), commonly known as huanglian, is a herb frequently used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) prescriptions. Known to have “clearing damp-heat, quenching fire and counteracting poison” properties, it was widely used in the Chinese community in Singapore. Berberine, an alkaloid isolated from RC, is known to have a wide array of therapeutic effects including antimicrobial, antineoplastic, and hepatoprotective effects. In 1978, RC was implicated in causing neonatal jaundice (NNJ) and kernicterus in neonates suffering from glucose‐6‐phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency, leading to the banning of RC and berberine in Singapore. More than three decades later, accumulating evidence‐based studies pointing to the safety of RC for general public and better understanding of G6PD deficiency, the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) in Singapore reviewed and lifted the prohibition on RC and berberine, turning a brand new chapter in the history of TCM in Singapore. This paper aims to review the safety of RC and berberine, using the prohibition of use and subsequent lifting of ban on RC and berberine in Singapore as an illustration to highlight the importance of evidence‐based studies in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).
Sterile Acellular Dermal Collagen as a Treatment for Rippling Deformity of Breast
Authors: Busse Brittany , Orbay Hakan , Sahar David E.
Published: December 2014

Prosthetic implants are frequently used for breast augmentation and breast reconstruction following mastectomy. Unfortunately, long-term aesthetic results of prosthetic breast restoration may be hindered by complications such as rippling, capsular contracture, and implant malposition. The advent of use of acellular dermal matrices has greatly improved the outcomes of prosthetic breast reconstruction. We describe a case of rippling deformity of breast that was treated using an acellular dermal matrix product, AlloMax. The patient presented with visible rippling of bilateral prosthetic breast implants as well as significant asymmetry of the breasts after multiple excisional biopsies for right breast ductal carcinoma in situ. A6×10 cm piece of AlloMax was placed on the medial aspect of each breast between the implant and the skin flap. Follow-up was performed at 1 week, 3 months, and 1 year following the procedure. The patient recovered well from the surgery and there were no complications. At her first postoperative follow-up the patient was extremely satisfied with the result. At her 3-month and 1-year follow-up she had no recurrence of her previous deformity and no new deformity.
Lubiprostone Decreases the Small Bowel Transit Time by Capsule Endoscopy: An Exploratory, Randomised, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled 3-Way Crossover Study
Authors: Matsuura Mizue , Inamori Masahiko , Endo Hiroki , Matsuura Tetsuya , Kanoshima Kenji , Inoh Yumi , Fujita Yuji , Umezawa Shotaro , Fuyuki Akiko , Uchiyama Shiori , Higurashi Takuma , Ohkubo Hidenori , Sakai Eiji , Iida Hiroshi , Nonaka Takashi , Futagami Seiji , Kusakabe Akihiko , Maeda Shin , Nakajima Atsushi
Published: December 2014

The aim of this study was to investigate the usefulness of lubiprostone for bowel preparation and as a propulsive agent in small bowel endoscopy. Six healthy male volunteers participated in this randomized, 3-way crossover study. The subjects received a 24μg tablet of lubiprostone 60 minutes prior to the capsule ingestion for capsule endoscopy (CE) and a placebo tablet 30 minutes before the capsule ingestion (L-P regimen), a placebo tablet 60 minutes prior to CE and a 24 μg tablet of lubiprostone 30 minutes prior to CE (P-L regimen), or a placebo tablet 60 minutes prior to r CE and a placebo tablet again 30 minutes prior to CE (P-P regimen). The quality of the capsule endoscopic images and the amount of water in the small bowel were assessed on 5-point scale. The median SBTT was 178.5 (117–407) minutes in the P-P regimen, 122.5 (27–282) minutes in the L-P regimen, and 110.5 (11–331) minutes in the P-L regimen (P=0.042). This study showed that the use of lubiprostone significantly decreased the SBTT. We also confirmed that lubiprostone was effective for inducing water secretion into the small bowel during CE.
Low Molecular Weight Heparin in Portal Vein Thrombosis of Cirrhotic Patients: Only Therapeutic Purposes?
Authors: Licinio Raffaele , Principi Mariabeatrice , Losurdo Giuseppe , Castellaneta Nicola Maurizio , Ierardi Enzo , Di Leo Alfredo
Published: December 2014

Cirrhosis has always been regarded as hemorrhagic coagulopathy caused by the reduction in the hepatic synthesis of procoagulant proteins. However, with the progression of liver disease, the cirrhotic patient undergoes a high rate of thrombotic phenomena in the portal venous system. Although the progression of liver failure produces a reduction in the synthesis of anticoagulant molecules, a test able to detect the patients with hemostatic balance shifting towards hypercoagulability has not yet been elaborated. The need of treatment and/or prophylaxis of cirrhotic patients is demonstrated by the increased mortality, the risk of bleeding from esophageal varices, and the mortality of liver transplantation, when portal vein thrombosis (PVT) occurs even if current guidelines do not give indications about PVT treatment in cirrhosis. In view of the general feeling that the majority of cirrhotic patients at an advanced stage may be in a procoagulant condition (suggested by the sharp increase in the prevalence of PVT), it is presumable that a prophylaxis of this population could be of benefit. The safety and the efficacy of prophylaxis and treatment with enoxaparin in patients with cirrhosis demonstrated by a single paper suggest this option only in controlled trials and, currently, there are no sufficient evidences for a recommendation in the clinical practice.
Outcome Predictors in First-Ever Ischemic Stroke Patients: A Population-Based Study
Authors: Corso Giovanni , Bottacchi Edo , Tosi Piera , Caligiana Laura , Lia Chiara , Veronese Morosini Massimo , Dalmasso Paola
Published: December 2014

Background. There is scant population-based information regarding predictors of stroke severity and long-term mortality for first-ever ischemic strokes. The aims of this study were to determine the characteristics of patients who initially presented with first-ever ischemic stroke and to identify predictors of severity and long-term mortality. Methods. Data were collected from the population-based Cerebrovascular Aosta Registry. Between 2004 and 2008, 1057 patients with first-ever ischemic stroke were included. Variables analysed included comorbidities, sociodemographic factors, prior-to-stroke risk factors, therapy at admission and pathophysiologic and metabolic factors. Multivariate logistic regression models, Kaplan-Meier estimates, and Cox proportional Hazards model were used to assess predictors. Results. Predictors of stroke severity at admission were very old age (odds ratio [OR] 2.98, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.75–5.06), female gender (OR 1.73, 95% CI 1.21–2.40), atrial fibrillation (OR 2.76, 95% CI 1.72–4.44), low ejection fraction (OR 2.22, CI 95% 1.13–4.32), and cardioembolism (OR 2.0, 95% CI 1.36–2.93). Predictors of long-term mortality were very old age (hazard ratio [HR] 2.02, 95% CI 1.65–2.47), prestroke modified Rankin scale 3–5 (HR 1.82; 95% CI 1.46–2.26), Charlson Index ≥2 (HR 1.97; 95% CI 1.62–2.42), atrial fibrillation (HR 1.43, 95% CI 1.04–1.98), and stroke severity (HR 3.54, 95% CI 2.87–4.36). Conclusions. Very old age and cardiac embolism risk factors are the independent predictors of stroke severity. Moreover, these factors associated with other comorbid medical conditions influence independently long-term mortality after ischemic stroke.
Prenatal Curcumin Administration Reverses Behavioral and Neurochemical Effects and Decreases iNOS and COX-2 Expressions in Ischemic Rat Pups
Authors: Telles Maria Valéria Leimig , Nobre Maria Elizabeth Pereira , Alencar Lucas Parente , de Siqueira Keicy Parente , Borges Ada Maria Farias Sousa , Tavares Márnya Wellysa Leite , Alves Isabelle Bernardo , Duarte Lara Soares , de Lacerda Natália Kelly Rodrigues , de Alcântara Glaura Fernandes Teixeira , Scerni Débora Amado , Neves Kelly Rose Tavares , Viana Glauce Socorro de Barros
Published: December 2014

The objectives were to evaluate alterations in ischemic rat pups, from dams administered with curcumin (25 and 50 mg/kg). Ten-day-old male pups were subjected or not (SO) to brain ischemia and reperfusion, for 1, 7, and 14 days (this last group was submitted to behavioral evaluation). After that, pups were euthanized for determinations of striatal DA and DOPAC in SO, ischemic from untreated (ICUD) or curcumin treated (ICTD) dams, as well as hippocampal immunohistochemistry assays for iNOS and COX-2 and cresyl violet staining. At the 14th postischemia day, the ICUD group showed increased locomotor activity and rearing behavior, which were reversed in ICTD animals. ICUD pups presented decreased striatal DA and DOPAC levels, relatively to SO, mainly at the 1st postischemia day, but also at the 7th and 14th days which were partially reversed in ICTD pups. A greater number of viable neurons were observed in ICTD, as related to the ICUD group. Ischemia increased iNOS and COX-2 expressions, in CA1 and CA3 areas, at the 1st, 7th, and 14th postischemia days, and these effects were minimized in ICTD pups. In conclusion, the prenatal curcumin treatment was shown to be neuroprotective where the drug anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects probably play a role.
DNA Binding Test, X-Ray Crystal Structure, Spectral Studies, TG-DTA, and Electrochemistry of [CoX2(dmdphphen)] (Dmdphphen Is 2,9-Dimethyl-4,7-diphenyl-1,10-phenanthroline, X = Cl, and NCS) Complexes
Authors: Al-Noaimi Mousa , Suleiman Mohammed , Darwish Hany W. , Bakheit Ahmed H. , Abdoh Muneer , Saadeddin Iyad , Shivalingegowda Naveen , Lokanath Neartur Krishnappagowda , Bsharat Odey , Barakat Assem , Warad Ismail
Published: December 2014

Two new neutral mixed-ligand cobalt(II) complexes, [CoCl2(dmdphphen)]1and [Co(NCS)2(dmdphphen)]  2, where dmdphphen is 2,9-dimethyl-4,7-diphenyl-1,10-phenanthroline, were synthesized and characterized by an elemental analysis, UV-Vis, IR, TG/DTA, cyclic voltammetry CV, and single X-ray diffraction. Complex2crystallized as monoclinic with a space group P21/c. Co(II) ions are located in a distorted tetrahedral environment. TG/DTA result shows that these complexes are very stable and decomposed through one-step reaction. The two complexes exhibit a quasireversible one-electron response at −550 and 580 mV versus Cp2Fe/Cp2Fe+, which has been assigned to Co(I)/Co(II) and Co(II)/Co(III) couples. Absorption spectral studies reveal that such complexes exhibit hypochromicity during their interaction with CT-DNA.
Maxillary Chronic Osteomyelitis Caused by Domestic Violence: A Diagnostic Challenge
Authors: Oliveira Tamyris Inácio , de Carli Marina Lara , Ribeiro Junior Noé Vital , Pereira Alessandro Antônio Costa , Tatakis Dimitris N. , Hanemann João Adolfo Costa
Published: December 2014

Maxillary osteomyelitis is a rare condition defined as inflammation of the bone primarily caused by odontogenic bacteria, with trauma being the second leading cause. The present report documents a rare case of maxillary osteomyelitis in a 38-year-old female who was the victim of domestic violence approximately a year prior to presentation. Intraoral examination revealed a lesion appearing as exposed bony sequestrum, with significant destruction of gingiva and alveolar mucosa in the maxillary right quadrant, accompanied by significant pain, local edema, and continued purulence. Teeth numbers 11, 12, 13, 14, and 15 were mobile, not responsive to percussion, and nonvital. Treatment included antibiotic therapy for seven days followed by total enucleation of the necrotic bone tissue and extraction of the involved teeth. Microscopic findings confirmed the clinical diagnosis of chronic suppurative osteomyelitis. Six months postoperatively, the treated area presented complete healing and there was no sign of recurrence of the lesion.
Assessment of Objective Ambulation in Lower Extremity Sarcoma Patients with a Continuous Activity Monitor: Rationale and Validation
Authors: Gundle Kenneth R. , Punt Stephanie E. , Conrad III Ernest U.
Published: December 2014

In addition to patient reported outcome measures, accelerometers may provide useful information on the outcome of sarcoma patients treated with limb salvage. The StepWatch (SW) Activity Monitor (SAM) is a two-dimensional accelerometer worn on the ankle that records an objective measure of walking performance. The purpose of this study was to validate the SW in a cross-sectional population of adult patients with lower extremity sarcoma treated with limb salvage. The main outcome was correlation of total steps with the Toronto Extremity Salvage Score (TESS). In a sample of 29 patients, a mean of 12 days of SW data was collected per patient (range 6–16), with 2767 average total steps (S.D. 1867; range 406–7437). There was a moderate positive correlation between total steps and TESS(r=0.56,  P=0.002). Patients with osseous tumors walked significantly less than those with soft tissue sarcoma (1882 versus 3715,P<0.01). This study supports the validity of the SAM as an activity monitor for the objective assessment of real world physical function in sarcoma patients.
Acute Onset Collagenous Colitis with Unique Endoscopic Findings
Authors: Moroi Rintaro , Endo Katsuya , Kuhroha Masatake , Shiga Hisashi , Kakuta Yoichi , Kinouchi Yoshitaka , Shimosegawa Tooru
Published: December 2014

We experienced a rare case of 72-year-old woman with acute onset collagenous colitis (CC) induced by lansoprazole. The patient developed acute abdominal pain, watery diarrhea, and melena that are quite rare in usual CC. We could find the characteristic colonoscopic findings such as active long liner ulcers in the patient. We also observed the healing courses of these unique findings. Our case indicates two important points of view. (1) CC sometimes develops with acute onset symptoms which resemble those of ischemic colitis. (2) Colonoscopy would be useful and necessary to distinguish acute onset CC and ischemic colitis.
New species of Graphidaceae from Loei Province, Thailand
Authors: POENGSUNGNOEN VASUN , MANOCH LEKA , MONGKOLSUK PACHARA , KALB KLAUS
Published: December 2014

Twelve new species of the lichen family Graphidaceae are described from NE Thailand, namely Fissurina niveoalba, with warty paraphyses tips, muriform ascospores and the lack of secondary lichen substances; F. phuluangii, with 2–8 muriform ascopores and the production of stictic and hypostictic acids; Graphis subdussii, distinguished by unbranched, straight ascomata with entire labia, a completely carbonized exciple and transversely septate, up to 170 µm long ascospores; G. subinsulana, with conspicuous, prominent ascomata, a laterally carbonized exciple, single, muriform ascospores and norstictic acid; Leiorreuma hypomelaenoides, which differs from L. hypomelaenum by the absence of hypostictic acid; Phaeographis caesiodiscoides, distinguished by radiately branched immersed to erumpent ascomata with uncarbonized exciple and muriform, brown ascospores; P. loeiensis with numerous irregularly branched, clustered ascomata, with an uncarbonized exciple and 8–11-septate brown, transversely septate ascospores; P. neotricosoides which differs from P. neotricosa by the lack of neotricone, instead producing stictic acid; P. phurueaensis, distinguished by a clear hymenium, 5–7-septate, dark-brown ascospores and especially by producing stictic and norstictic acids, both as major metabolites; P. schizolomoides, distinguished by conspicuous prominent ascomata with a white-pruinose disc surrounded by a whitish thalline margin, and brown, submuriform ascospores; P. siamensis, which is separated from P. brasiliensis by the production of stictic acid and small, 3-septate ascospores; and Platygramme subarechavaletae, which is distinguished by inconspicuous ascomata with a concealed disc, an apically to laterally carbonized exciple and submuriform ascospores.
Revisiting the phylogeny of Ocellularieae, the second largest tribe within Graphidaceae (lichenized Ascomycota: Ostropales)
Authors: Kraichak Ekaphan , Parnmen Sittiporn , Lücking Robert , PLATA EIMY RIVAS , Aptroot André , Cáceres Marcela E. S. , ERTZ DAMIEN , Mangold Armin , Mercado-Díaz Joel A. , Papong Khwanruan , BROECK DRIES VAN DEN , WEERAKOON GOTHAMIE , Lumbsch H. Thorsten
Published: December 2014

We present an updated 3-locus molecular phylogeny of tribe Ocellularieae, the second largest tribe within subfamily Graphidoideae in the Graphidaceae. Adding 165 newly generated sequences from the mitochondrial small subunit rDNA (mtSSU), the nuclear large subunit rDNA (nuLSU), and the second largest subunit of the DNA-directed RNA polymerase II (RPB2), we currently distinguish 218 species among the sequenced material, including the outgroup. This corresponds to almost half the species at this point recognized within this tribe. The newly generated sequences include 23 newly described species and one newly described genus published elsewhere in this volume. For the first time, Sarcographina cyclospora Müll. Arg., in spite of its distinctly lirellate ascomata, is shown to belong in tribe Ocellularieae, as strongly supported sister to Ocellularia inturgescens (Müll. Arg.) Mangold. The following six new combinations are proposed: Melanotrema lynceodes (Nyl.) Rivas Plata, Lücking & Lumbsch, Ocellularia curranii (Vain.) Kraichak, Lücking & Lumbsch, O. khasiana (Patw. & Nagarkar) Kraichak, Lücking & Lumbsch, O. cinerea (Müll. Arg.) Kraichak, Lücking & Lumbsch, O. erodens (R. C. Harris) Kraichak, Lücking & Lumbsch, and O. laeviuscula (Nyl) Kraichak, Lücking & Lumbsch. Further, the new name Ocellularia hernandeziana Kraichak, Lücking & Lumbsch is introduced for Myriotrema ecorticatum. The nomenclatural status of the name Ocellularia microstoma is clarified.
Taxonomic review based on new data of the reef-building alga Porolithon onkodes (Corallinaceae, Corallinales, Rhodophyta) along with other taxa found to be conspecific
Authors: Maneveldt Gavin William , KEATS DEREK W.
Published: December 2014

Based on new studies of the type and of specimens from various localities in the Atlantic, Indian and Pacific oceans, Porolithon onkodes was reaffirmed as a distinct species, but of variable morphological appearance. The following taxa were found to conform to the present-day diagnosis of P. onkodes and they are thus considered heterotypic synonyms thereof: P. antillarum, P. cocosicum P. pachydermum and P. sandvicense. Despite the suggested reproductive isolation of these taxa, there is no valid taxonomic reason for their separation as the characters considered diagnostic of P. onkodes were found to be present in all of them. Also, while molecular analysis using ITS sequence data has suggested that P. onkodes and P. pachydermum are distinct species, the complex and unpredictable evolutionary behaviour of ITS reduce its use for phylogenetic analysis. In many tropical Indo-Pacific and tropical eastern Atlantic regions, P. onkodes has been reported to be one of the single-most important ecological species because of its wide distribution. Similarly, P. pachydermum has been documented as one of the single-most important ecological species in many areas of the tropical and subtropical western Atlantic. As the two taxa are here shown to be conspecific, it is logical to suggest that P. onkodes is arguably one of the most widespread tropical to subtropical non-geniculate coralline algae. Porolithon onkodes not only occurs largely throughout the Indo-Pacific, but as a result of the present study, is now known to commonly occur throughout the tropical and subtropical regions of the eastern and notably western Atlantic Ocean.
Lithophylloideae and Mastophoroideae (Corallinales, Rhodophyta) from the Brazilian continental shelf
Authors: Henriques Maria Carolina , RIOSMENA-RODRÍGUEZ RAFAEL , COUTINHO LUANA MIRANDA , FIGUEIREDO MARCIA A. O.
Published: December 2014

Brazilian continental shelf is rich in rhodolith beds and it has a relevant role as a critical ecosystem for conservation. However, we do not know the taxonomy of the rhodolith forming species and because of that we analysed samples from the REVIZEE project in which morpho-anatomical analysis was used to identify Lithophylloideae and Mastophoroideae species. We found Titanoderma pustulatum; Lithophyllum stictaeforme; Lithophyllum corallinae, Hydrolithon breviclavium, Hydrolithon onkodes and Spongites fruticulosus. This is the first detailed description of T. pustulatum from Brazil and S. fruticulosus from the Atlantic Ocean, the first record of H. breviclavium in the Atlantic Ocean and of H. onkodes in Brazilian water. L. corallinae was found 250 m deep—that is a new Coralline algae depth record for Brazilian waters. This study contributes to the understanding of the diversity in Brazilian continental shelf and indicates the importance of future systematic studies. This knowledge is relevant to guide conservation programs and evaluation of impacts.
Taxonomic revision of Chenopodiaceae in Nepal
Authors: Sukhorukov Alexander P. , Kushunina Maria
Published: December 2014

A taxonomic revision of the family Chenopodiaceae in Nepal with new diagnostic keys, descriptions and detailed distribution patterns is here presented for the first time. 24 species from 13 genera are reported. The apophytes in Himalaya are found in both ruderal and segetal plant communities in contrast to Chenopodiaceae in temperate parts of Eurasia which prefer ruderal places only. The Himalaya and West Tibet are considered to be the regions with the greatest taxonomic diversity of native Dysphania in Eurasia. Chenopodium perttii is described as new for science, and its differences from other related taxa are described, including its unique minute-papillate (almost smooth when dry) pericarp. C. bengalense seems to be an older name for the taxa known as C. giganteum or C. album subsp. amaranticolor. The lectotypes of Chenopodium giganteum, C. album subsp. yunnanense, C. aristatum f. muticum (here synonymized with Dysphania kitiae) and Microgynoecium tibeticum are designated. Both lectotype and epitype for Atriplex bengalensis (basionym of C. bengalense), C. giganteum and the re-instated species C. pallidum are designated.
Clinical Outcomes of SMART Versus Luminexx Nitinol Stent Implantation for Aortoiliac Artery Disease
Authors: Shintani Yoshiaki , Soga Yoshimitsu , Takahara Mitsuyoshi , Iida Osamu , Kawasaki Daizo , Yamauchi Yasutaka , Suzuki Kenji , Hirano Keisuke , Kawasaki Tomohiro
Published: December 2014

Background:

Endovascular therapy for aortoiliac (AI) lesions using stents is widely accepted. However, the long-term outcome of 2 different types of nitinol stents for AI lesions is unknown. The aim of this study was to examine the long-term outcome of the SMART and Luminexx nitinol stents for the treatment of de novo AI lesions.

Methods:

This study was a multicenter retrospective analysis of a prospectively maintained database. The study enrolled consecutive patients undergoing primary stenting for de novo AI artery stenosis between January 2005 and December 2009. A total of 1503 lesions in 1229 patients treated with SMART or Luminexx primary stenting were enrolled. The primary end point was primary patency, secondary end points were the primary assisted patency, secondary patency, and major adverse limb events (MALEs), which included major amputation and major reintervention. To minimize the differences between the groups, a propensity score matching analysis was performed, and 284 lesions per group were analyzed to identify outcomes.

Results:

After the propensity score matching analysis, the lesion length was 60 ± 37 and 57 ± 31 mm ( P = .275), and the reference vessel diameter was 8.2 ± 1.5 and 8.3 ± 1.5 mm ( P = .482) in the SMART and Luminexx groups, respectively. The primary patency at 3 years was not significantly different between the groups (83.5% vs 82.2%, P = .842, respectively). The assisted primary patency and secondary patency rates were also not significantly different (91.7% vs 93.2%, P = .340, 99.2% vs 98.8%, P = .922). In addition, the MALE rate was not significantly different between the groups (98.3% vs 97.3%, P = .821).

Conclusion:

The current data suggest that the use of nitinol stents for the AI artery provided good long-term patency and freedom from MALE for 3 years of follow-up, regardless of whether SMART or Luminexx stents were used.
Utility of Peak Inspiratory Flow in Managing Subglottic Stenosis
Authors: Tasche Kendall K. , Bayan Semirra , Schularick Nathan M. , Wilson Jeff , Hoffman Henry T.
Published: December 2014

Objectives:

To identify the utility of peak inspiratory flow (PIF) in the assessment and management of subglottic stenosis through correlation of clinical presentation with PIF.

Study Design:

Case report.

Methods:

Review of the clinical course of a 31-year-old woman with the diagnosis of granulomatosis with polyangiitis. Repeated PIF measurements at clinic visits were obtained over a 30-month follow-up.

Results:

Twenty-seven PIF measurements were obtained at 31 otolaryngology clinic visits. Correlations were identified between low PIF measurements with the clinical symptom shortness of breath (2.04 ± 0.38 L/s, n = 10), clinically recorded stridor at rest (1.64 ± 0.41 L/s, n = 3), and urgent operative intervention (1.60 ± 0.23 L/s, n = 5). Correlations were identified between high PIF measurement with patient report of normal breathing (3.07 ± 0.35 L/s, n = 16) and clinical observation of absence of stridor at rest (2.81 ± 0.32 L/s, n = 23). There was a statistically significant difference in the patient’s PIF values with patient-documented shortness of breath vs no shortness of breath ( P = .001) and clinician-noted stridor vs no stridor ( P = .017).

Conclusion:

Peak inspiratory flow measurements correlate with degree of airway compromise and are helpful to monitor the degree of airway obstruction and document response to treatment.
Predictors of Quality of Life Improvement in Allergic Rhinitis Patients After Sublingual Immunotherapy
Authors: Katotomichelakis Michael , Riga Maria , Tripsianis Gregory , Balatsouras Dimitrios , Kourousis Christos , Danielides Gerasimos , Giotakis Evangelos , Danielides Vassilios
Published: December 2014

Objectives:

Sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) has been described as a significant intervention in the treatment of allergic rhinitis (AR). However, factors that may predict treatment outcomes with respect to quality of life (QoL) results and mainly the role of olfactory function are still being underestimated. In this study, we investigated determinants that best predict treatment outcomes for QoL, exploring mainly the role of olfaction.

Methods:

One hundred forty-five patients following SLIT, 45 placebo-controls, and 48 healthy subjects were studied. Olfactory function was objectively evaluated using “Sniffin’ Sticks” test pre- and post-cessation of SLIT. Three categories of validated QoL questionnaires were filled out by all subjects: questionnaire specific for olfaction (Questionnaire of Olfactory Deficits), questionnaires for assessing psychology (Beck Depression Inventory, Zung Depression Scale, State & Trait Anxiety Inventory), general Short Form-36 health survey.

Results:

Statistically significant improvement of olfactory function by 11.1% and of all QoL questionnaires results (all P < .001) was observed on final evaluation. Anosmia, asthma history, and the severity of symptoms—expressed by the Total Symptoms Score—were proven independent determinants of clinically significant improvement in patients’ QoL.

Conclusions:

Several factors were found that may predict QoL outcomes in AR patients following SLIT.
How Reliable Are Sino-Nasal Cell Lines for Studying the Pathophysiology of Chronic Rhinosinusitis?
Authors: Ball Stephen L. , Suwara Monika I. , Borthwick Lee A. , Wilson Janet A. , Mann Derek A. , Fisher Andrew J.
Published: December 2014

Background:

Well-characterized cell lines represent useful scientific tools to study the pathophysiology of human disease. Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is a very common condition, though the number of CRS cell lines is limited, as are data showing how closely they resemble primary cells.

Methodology:

Searches for available human cell lines were performed using the American Type Culture Collection (ATCC) and European Collection of Cell Cultures (ECACC). Identified cells were cultured and characterized with tinctorial and immunohistochemical staining and ELISA to assess their response to common, disease-relevant inflammatory stimuli. Carefully phenotyped CRS patients were recruited with informed consent. Primary nasal epithelial cell (PNEC) brushings were harvested, cultured, and compared to the available cell lines.

Results:

Searches identified 1 relevant CRS sino-nasal cell line, RPMI 2650. Cultured PNECs showed strong expression of epithelial markers while being negative for mesenchymal markers. However, RPMI 2650 cells show an atypical mixed epithelial/mesenchymal phenotype. When stimulated by pro-inflammatory ligands, PNECs responded in a dose-dependent manner, whereas RPMI 2650 cells showed limited response.

Conclusions:

The number and availability of cell lines to study the pathophysiology of CRS greatly underrepresent the disease burden. Additionally, the sole commercially available cell line appears to have a different phenotype and behavior to primary patient-derived cells. The development of further reproducible cell lines would be beneficial in our understanding of CRS.
Laughter Is Not Always Funny
Authors: Maayan Channa , Katz Eliot , Begin Michal , Yuvchev Ivelin , Kharasch Virginia S.
Published: December 2014

Familial dysautonomia (FD) is a genetic disease characterized by primary autonomic dysfunction including parasympathetic hypersensitivity. Breath-holding spells (BHS) are believed to be caused by autonomic dysregulation mediated via the vagus nerve and increased in patients with a family history of BHS. Details and understanding of its pathophysiology are lacking. In this retrospective study of patients with FD, the incidence of BHS was higher at 53.3%, compared with previous studies in normal children. Laughter as a precipitating factor for BHS has not been previously reported in FD and occurred in 10% of patients in this study. Lower lung volumes, chronic lung disease, chronic CO2 retention, and inadequate autonomic compensation occur in those with FD leading to a higher incidence and severity of BHS when crying or laughing. Thus, FD may be a good model for understanding manifestations of the autonomic nervous system dysfunction and contribute to our knowledge of BHS mechanisms.