bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impacts of Tropical Cyclones and Accompanying Precipitation on Infectious Diarrhea in Cyclone Landing Areas of Zhejiang Province, China
Authors: Deng Zhengyi , Xun Huanmiao , Zhou Maigeng , Jiang Baofa , Wang Songwang , Guo Qing , Wang Wei , Kang Ruihua , Wang Xin , Marley Gifty , Ma Wei
Published: January 2015

Background: Zhejiang Province, located in southeastern China, is frequently hit by tropical cyclones. This study quantified the associations between infectious diarrhea and the seven tropical cyclones that landed in Zhejiang from 2005–2011 to assess the impacts of the accompanying precipitation on the studied diseases. Method: A unidirectional case-crossover study design was used to evaluate the impacts of tropical storms and typhoons on infectious diarrhea. Principal component analysis (PCA) was applied to eliminate multicollinearity. A multivariate logistic regression model was used to estimate the odds ratios (ORs) and the 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Results: For all typhoons studied, the greatest impacts on bacillary dysentery and other infectious diarrhea were identified on lag 6 days (OR = 2.30, 95% CI: 1.81–2.93) and lag 5 days (OR = 3.56, 95% CI: 2.98–4.25), respectively. For all tropical storms, impacts on these diseases were highest on lag 2 days (OR = 2.47, 95% CI: 1.41–4.33) and lag 6 days (OR = 2.46, 95% CI: 1.69–3.56), respectively. The tropical cyclone precipitation was a risk factor for both bacillary dysentery and other infectious diarrhea when daily precipitation reached 25 mm and 50 mm with the largest OR = 3.25 (95% CI: 1.45–7.27) and OR = 3.05 (95% CI: 2.20–4.23), respectively. Conclusions: Both typhoons and tropical storms could contribute to an increase in risk of bacillary dysentery and other infectious diarrhea in Zhejiang. Tropical cyclone precipitation may also be a risk factor for these diseases when it reaches or is above 25 mm and 50 mm, respectively. Public health preventive and intervention measures should consider the adverse health impacts from tropical cyclones.
Migration, Acculturation and Environment: Determinants of Obesity among Iranian Migrants in Australia
Authors: Delavari Maryam , Sønderlund Anders , Mellor David , Mohebbi Mohammadreza , Swinburn Boyd
Published: January 2015

While migration from low- to high-income countries is typically associated with weight gain, the obesity risks of migration from middle-income countries are less certain. In addition to changes in behaviours and cultural orientation upon migration, analyses of changes in environments are needed to explain post-migration risks for obesity. The present study examines the interaction between obesity-related environmental factors and the pattern of migrant acculturation in a sample of 152 Iranian immigrants in Victoria, Australia. Weight measurements, demographics, physical activity levels and diet habits were also surveyed. The pattern of acculturation (relative integration, assimilation, separation or marginalization) was not related to body mass index, diet, or physical activity behaviours. Three relevant aspects of participants’ perception of the Australian environment (physically active environments, social pressure to be fit, unhealthy food environments) varied considerably by demographic characteristics, but only one (physically active environments) was related to a pattern of acculturation (assimilation). Overall, this research highlighted a number of key relationships between acculturation and obesity-related environments and behaviours for our study sample. Theoretical models on migration, culture and obesity need to include environmental factors.
Nuclear and Mitochondrial DNA Alterations in Newborns with Prenatal Exposure to Cigarette Smoke
Authors: Pirini Francesca , Guida Elisa , Lawson Fahcina , Mancinelli Andrea , Guerrero-Preston Rafael
Published: January 2015

Newborns exposed to maternal cigarette smoke (CS) in utero have an increased risk of developing chronic diseases, cancer, and acquiring decreased cognitive function in adulthood. Although the literature reports many deleterious effects associated with maternal cigarette smoking on the fetus, the molecular alterations and mechanisms of action are not yet clear. Smoking may act directly on nuclear DNA by inducing mutations or epigenetic modifications. Recent studies also indicate that smoking may act on mitochondrial DNA by inducing a change in the number of copies to make up for the damage caused by smoking on the respiratory chain and lack of energy. In addition, individual genetic susceptibility plays a significant role in determining the effects of smoking during development. Furthermore, prior exposure of paternal and maternal gametes to cigarette smoke may affect the health of the developing individual, not only the in utero exposure. This review examines the genetic and epigenetic alterations in nuclear and mitochondrial DNA associated with smoke exposure during the most sensitive periods of development (prior to conception, prenatal and early postnatal) and assesses how such changes may have consequences for both fetal growth and development.
The Challenges of Underweight and Overweight in South African Children: Are We Winning or Losing the Battle? A Systematic Review
Authors: Monyeki Makama , Awotidebe Adedapo , Strydom Gert , De Ridder J. , Mamabolo Ramoteme , Kemper Han
Published: January 2015

Underweight and overweight are adverse effects of malnutrition and both are associated with negative health consequences in children and adolescents. In South Africa, the burden of economic and social disparity coexists with malnutrition in children. The purpose of this study was to review available South Africa studies regarding the comprehensive summary of prevalence of underweight and overweight and evaluates government policies in addressing undernutrition and overnutrition in South African children and adolescents. We searched subject-specific electronic bibliographic databases of observational studies published on malnutrition, undernutrition, overnutrition, underweight and overweight in South African boys and girls from birth to 20 years of age in studies published on or after 1990. A total of sixteen cross-sectional, three longitudinal studies and one report met the criteria for inclusion in this review. Descriptive data synthesis revealed the small number of longitudinal studies highlights the dearth of research in tracking undernutrition and overnutrition in South African children. In this review, 0.7%–66% of underweight was reported among children in rural areas compared to a 3.1%–32.4% of overweight in urban areas. All studies reported a higher rate of underweight in boys than girls who were significantly more likely to have higher body fat. The data indicated that both underweight and overweight were positively related with health-related physical activity and psychological health problems such as low activity, low fitness, low self-image and self-esteem. Numerous recommendations were made in the reviewed studies, however effective strategic programs in eradicating both underweight and overweight are minimal. It is evident from the reviewed studies that the burden of underweight and overweight are still a problem in South African children. The most highly affected by underweight are rural children, while children in urban areas in transition are faced with burden of overweight. There is little evidence to suggest that government strategic programs are effective in addressing underweight and overweight in South African children. Based on these findings, sustainable school-based feeding schemes and physical education programmes are needed for optimal benefits in children and adolescents.
A Pilot Study to Validate a Standardized One-Week Salt Estimation Method Evaluating Salt Intake and Its Sources for Family Members in China
Authors: Zhang Lu , Zhao Fang , Zhang Puhong , Gao Jianmei , Liu Caixia , He Feng , Lin Ching-Ping
Published: January 2015

The objective of this study was to develop a new method named the “one-week salt estimation method” that could estimate an individual’s salt intake and the sources of salt in the diet, and to evaluate this new method with a 24-h urine collection. The new method estimates salt intake from: (1) household cooking by weighing the family salt container and other high-salt condiments or sauces at the beginning and end of a week; (2) processed food according to established China food composition figures; and (3) cafeteria or restaurant meals using the results of previous studies. Consumption of salt additives and major salt contained foods and salt intake related eating habits were collected using a structured simple seven-day questionnaire. In order to validate the method, we studied 37 individuals from 11 families using the new method and 26 of these participants collected seven concurrent 24-h urine samples. The average salt intake for the 26 participants was 15.6 ± 5.5 g/person/day (mean ± standard deviation) by the 24-h urine collection and 13.7 ± 6.5 g/person/day by the new method. The difference was 1.8 ± 4.2 g/day/person (p = 0.037). The Pearson correlation coefficient was 0.762 (p < 0.001) and the partial correlation coefficient was 0.771 (p < 0.001) when adjusted for family code. Bland-Altman Plot showed the average of the difference between the two methods was −1.83, with 95% limits of −10.1 to 6.5 g/person/day. The new method showed that 43.7% of salt intake came from household cooking (33.5% from cooking salt, 10.2% from other condiments and sauces), 12.9% from processed food, and 43.4% from eating out. In conclusion, despite its limitations of underestimating salt intake, the “one-week salt estimation method” is easier for people to implement and is likely to provide useful information that highlights the excessively high intake of salt and its sources, and in turn is helpful in guiding dietary salt reduction.
Digital Mapping of Soil Properties Using Multivariate Statistical Analysis and ASTER Data in an Arid Region
Authors: Nawar Said , Buddenbaum Henning , Hill Joachim
Published: January 2015

Modeling and mapping of soil properties has been identified as key for effective land degradation management and mitigation. The ability to model and map soil properties at sufficient accuracy for a large agriculture area is demonstrated using Advanced Spaceborne Thermal Emission and Reflection Radiometer (ASTER) imagery. Soil samples were collected in the El-Tina Plain, Sinai, Egypt, concurrently with the acquisition of ASTER imagery, and measured for soil electrical conductivity (ECe), clay content and soil organic matter (OM). An ASTER image covering the study area was preprocessed, and two predictive models, multivariate adaptive regression splines (MARS) and the partial least squares regression (PLSR), were constructed based on the ASTER spectra. For all three soil properties, the results of MARS models were better than those of the respective PLSR models, with cross-validation estimated R2 of 0.85 and 0.80 for ECe, 0.94 and 0.90 for clay content and 0.79 and 0.73 for OM. Independent validation of ECe, clay content and OM maps with 32 soil samples showed the better performance of the MARS models, with R2 = 0.81, 0.89 and 0.73, respectively, compared to R2 = 0.78, 0.87 and 0.71 for the PLSR models. The results indicated that MARS is a more suitable and superior modeling technique than PLSR for the estimation and mapping of soil salinity (ECe), clay content and OM. The method developed in this paper was found to be reliable and accurate for digital soil mapping in arid and semi-arid environments.
A Multi-Stage Method for Connecting Participatory Sensing and Noise Simulations
Authors: Hu Mingyuan , Che Weitao , Zhang Qiuju , Luo Qingli , Lin Hui
Published: January 2015

Most simulation-based noise maps are important for official noise assessment but lack local noise characteristics. The main reasons for this lack of information are that official noise simulations only provide information about expected noise levels, which is limited by the use of large-scale monitoring of noise sources, and are updated infrequently. With the emergence of smart cities and ubiquitous sensing, the possible improvements enabled by sensing technologies provide the possibility to resolve this problem. This study proposed an integrated methodology to propel participatory sensing from its current random and distributed sampling origins to professional noise simulation. The aims of this study were to effectively organize the participatory noise data, to dynamically refine the granularity of the noise features on road segments (e.g., different portions of a road segment), and then to provide a reasonable spatio-temporal data foundation to support noise simulations, which can be of help to researchers in understanding how participatory sensing can play a role in smart cities. This study first discusses the potential limitations of the current participatory sensing and simulation-based official noise maps. Next, we explain how participatory noise data can contribute to a simulation-based noise map by providing (1) spatial matching of the participatory noise data to the virtual partitions at a more microscopic level of road networks; (2) multi-temporal scale noise estimations at the spatial level of virtual partitions; and (3) dynamic aggregation of virtual partitions by comparing the noise values at the relevant temporal scale to form a dynamic segmentation of each road segment to support multiple spatio-temporal noise simulations. In this case study, we demonstrate how this method could play a significant role in a simulation-based noise map. Together, these results demonstrate the potential benefits of participatory noise data as dynamic input sources for noise simulations on multiple spatio-temporal scales.
BELLMAN – FORD METHOD FOR SOLVING THE OPTIMAL ROUTE PROBLEM / OPTIMALAUS MARŠRUTO NUSTATYMAS TAIKANT BELMANO IR FORDO METODĄ
Authors: Greičiūnė Laima
Published: January 2015

The article aims to adapt the dynamic programming method for optimal route determination using real-time data on ITS equipment. For this purpose, VBA code has been applied for solving the Bellman - Ford method for an optimal route considering optimality criteria for time, distance and the amount of emissions.
Šio straipsnio tikslas – aprašyti, kaip dinaminio programavimo metodas pritaikomas optimaliam maršrutui nustatyti naudojant Lietuvos žaliojo koridoriaus, kuris išsiskiria mažesne aplinkos tarša vežant įvairiarūšius krovinius, topologinio žemėlapio ir intelektinių transporto sistemų (ITS) įrenginių duomenis realiu laiku. Taikant Visual basic application (VBA) programavimo kalbos kodą sprendžiant dinaminio programavimo Belmano ir Fordo metodu, kodas skirtas optimaliam maršrutui nustatyti, atsižvelgiama į tris optimalumo kriterijus (laiką, atstumą bei teršalų emisijos kiekį).
Le cercle de la reliance : une perspective relationnelle et sociale de l'autonomie
Authors: Papaux Évelyne
Published: January 2015

Cet article présente d’abord une compréhension sociale et systémique de l’autonomie plaçant l’individu dans un système en perpétuelle évolution. Ensuite l’auteur nous propose le modèle du cercle de l’autonomie s’appuyant sur un fonctionnement sain de la personne. Enfin les études de cas illustrent comment l’utilisation du cercle de la reliance favorise une ouverture du système en identifiant des stratégies positives et co-créative.
Le point sur... Les trois énergies selon Berne
Authors: Nasielski Salomon
Published: January 2015

Berne après Freud s’est penché sur la notion d’énergie psychique. Il a repris les termes d’énergie liée et libre et a ajouté la notion d’énergie déliée. Mais qu’a-t-il voulu dire par là ?
Un forum, et après ? Réponse au Forum du n˚ 145
Authors: Back Frédéric
Published: January 2015

Une fois n’est pas coutume, un de nos lecteurs a réagi aux réponses au forum initialisé par Salomon Nasielski dans le numéro 145 (« Suffit-il d’être hétérosexuels pour faire une bonne équipe parentale ? »). C’est avec plaisir que nous vous livrons cette contribution de Frédéric Back qui prolonge et enrichit le débat.
Scheuermann’s Disease (Dysostosis) of the Spine
Authors: Axelrod Trevor , Zhu Fang , Lomasney Laurie , Wojewnik Bartosz
Published: January 2015

A 17-year-old adolescent boy presented with progressive lower back pain and fatigue.
Local Administration of Zoledronic Acid for Giant Cell Tumor of Bone
Authors: Nishisho Toshihiko , Hanaoka Naoyoshi , Miyagi Ryo , Sakai Toshinori , Toki Shunichi , Takahashi Mitsuhiko , Kenji Endo , Yasui Natsuo , Sairyo Koichi
Published: January 2015

Giant cell tumor of bone is a locally aggressive tumor with a high local recurrence rate. Several adjuvant therapies have been employed to reduce the recurrence rate, but their effectiveness remains controversial. The authors attempted local administration of zoledronic acid, a nitrogen-containing bisphosphonate that strongly inhibits bone resorption, as an adjuvant treatment for histologically proven giant cell tumor of bone in 5 patients at their institution. After biopsy, 4 patients were treated with local administration of zoledronic acid with artificial bone and 1 was treated with zoledronic acid without artificial bone. Histologic response to the treatment was evaluated with surgically resected specimens. The 4 patients treated with artificial bone showed local control, with histologic tumor necrosis rates of 90%, 90%, 50%, and 10%. Magnetic resonance imaging showed poor gadolinium enhancement, and histologic examination after local zoledronic acid treatment showed tumor necrosis. One patient without artificial bone showed no histologic tumor necrosis and had local recurrence in soft tissue 18 months after tumor resection. A 3-week waiting period between biopsy and zoledronic acid treatment appears reasonable from the histological study. Complication of this therapy was delayed wound healing and it occurred in 2 cases. Taken together, this case series suggests that local administration of zoledronic acid with artificial bone is a potential adjuvant therapy for giant cell tumor of bone. On the other hand, effective local administration of zoledronic acid requires some bone matrix, including artificial bone. Campanacci’s grading is important for predicting the effect of local administration of zoledronic acid. [
Orthopedics.
2015; 38(1):e25–e30.]
Pertrochanteric Hip Fracture: A “Routine” Fracture With a Potentially Devastating Vascular Complication
Authors: Sullivan Matthew Patrick , Schenker Mara Lynne , Mehta Samir
Published: January 2015

Vascular injuries in conjunction with low-energy geriatric hip fractures, although uncommon, can be life-threatening. Furthermore, vascular injuries are usually iatrogenic, related to malpositioning of percutaneous reduction aids, aberrant drilling, or poorly sized implants. The authors describe an older woman who had a low-energy pertrochanteric hip fracture. She was noted preoperatively to have an isolated decrease in hemoglobin of 4.7 g/dL in the 2.5 days before surgery. Fracture reduction was performed with closed and percutaneous techniques with the limb free-legged on a radiolucent flat-top table. On reduction of the distal fragment (which was translated proximal and medial), extremely brisk bleeding was noted from the fracture site. Vascular control was obtained with subvastus exposure through the fracture site to gain access to the medial aspect of the thigh. A pulsatile traumatic laceration in the profunda femoral artery was identified, and the ends were ligated. The fracture was then fixated internally. Careful analysis of preoperative imaging showed the distal fracture fragment in immediate proximity to the calcified profunda femoral artery, transecting it at the time of injury and resulting in the significant increase in hemoglobin noted preoperatively. This case is an unusual vascular injury associated with a very common geriatric fracture pattern. To the authors’ knowledge, there are only 2 cases in the English language literature of acute vascular injury as a result of a proximal femur fracture fragment. Given the routine nature of geriatric hip fractures, the orthopedic surgeon must be familiar with the appropriate diagnosis and management of this major complication. [
Orthopedics
. 2015; 38(1):e75–e79.]
Recombinant Thrombomodulin Inhibits Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Inflammatory Response by Blocking the Functions of CD14
Authors: Ma Chih-Yuan , Chang Wei-En , Shi Guey-Yueh , Chang Bi-Ying , Cheng Sheng-En , Shih Yun-Tai , Wu Hua-Lin
Published: January 2015

CD14, a multiligand pattern-recognition receptor, is involved in the activation of many TLRs. Thrombomodulin (TM), a type I transmembrane glycoprotein, originally was identified as an anticoagulant factor that activates protein C. Previously, we showed that the recombinant TM lectin-like domain binds to LPS and inhibits LPS-induced inflammation, but the function of the recombinant epidermal growth factor–like domain plus serine/threonine-rich domain of TM (rTMD23) in LPS-induced inflammation remains unknown. In the current study, we found that rTMD23 markedly suppressed the activation of intracellular signaling pathways and the production of inflammatory cytokines induced by LPS. The anti-inflammatory activity of rTMD23 was independent of activated protein C. We also found that rTMD23 interacted with the soluble and membrane forms of CD14 and inhibited the CD14-mediated inflammatory response. Knockdown of CD14 in macrophages suppressed the production of inflammatory cytokines induced by LPS, and rTMD23 inhibited LPS-induced IL-6 production in CD14-knockdown macrophages. rTMD23 suppressed the binding of LPS to macrophages by blocking the association between monocytic membrane-bound TM and CD14. The administration of rTMD23 in mice, both pretreatment and posttreatment, significantly increased the survival rate and reduced the inflammatory response to LPS. Notably, the serine/threonine-rich domain is essential for the anti-inflammatory activity of rTMD23. To summarize, we show that rTMD23 suppresses the LPS-induced inflammatory response in mice by targeting CD14 and that the serine/threonine-rich domain is crucial for the inhibitory effect of rTMD23 on LPS-induced inflammation.
PP6 Controls T Cell Development and Homeostasis by Negatively Regulating Distal TCR Signaling
Authors: Ye Jian , Shi Hao , Shen Ye , Peng Chao , Liu Yan , Li Chenyu , Deng Kejing , Geng Jianguo , Xu Tian , Zhuang Yuan , Zheng Biao , Tao Wufan
Published: January 2015

T cell development and homeostasis are both regulated by TCR signals. Protein phosphorylation and dephosphorylation, which are catalyzed by protein kinases and phosphatases, respectively, serve as important switches controlling multiple downstream pathways triggered by TCR recognition of Ags. It has been well documented that protein tyrosine phosphatases are involved in negative regulation of proximal TCR signaling. However, how TCR signals are terminated or attenuated in the distal TCR signaling pathways is largely unknown. We investigated the function of Ser/Thr protein phosphatase (PP) 6 in TCR signaling. T cell lineage-specific ablation of PP6 in mice resulted in enhanced thymic positive and negative selection, and preferential expansion of fetal-derived, IL-17–producing Vγ6Vδ1+ T cells. Both PP6-deficient peripheral CD4+ helper and CD8+ cytolytic cells could not maintain a naive state and became fast-proliferating and short-lived effector cells. PP6 deficiency led to profound hyperactivation of multiple distal TCR signaling molecules, including MAPKs, AKT, and NF-κB. Our studies demonstrate that PP6 acts as a critical negative regulator, not only controlling both αβ and γδ lineage development, but also maintaining naive T cell homeostasis by preventing their premature activation before Ag stimulation.
Dermal-Resident versus Recruited γδ T Cell Response to Cutaneous Vaccinia Virus Infection
Authors: Woodward Davis Amanda S. , Bergsbaken Tessa , Delaney Martha A. , Bevan Michael J.
Published: January 2015

The study of T cell immunity at barrier surfaces has largely focused on T cells bearing the αβ TCR. However, T cells that express the γδ TCR are disproportionately represented in peripheral tissues of mice and humans, suggesting they too may play an important role responding to external stimuli. In this article, we report that, in a murine model of cutaneous infection with vaccinia virus, dermal γδ T cell numbers increased 10-fold in the infected ear and resulted in a novel γδ T cell population not found in naive skin. Circulating γδ T cells were specifically recruited to the site of inflammation and differentially contributed to dermal populations based on their CD27 expression. Recruited γδ T cells, the majority of which were CD27+, were granzyme B+ and made up about half of the dermal population at the peak of the response. In contrast, recruited and resident γδ T cell populations that made IL-17 were CD27−. Using a double-chimera model that can discriminate between the resident dermal and recruited γδ T cell populations, we demonstrated their divergent functions and contributions to early stages of tissue inflammation. Specifically, the loss of the perinatal thymus-derived resident dermal population resulted in decreased cellularity and collateral damage in the tissue during viral infection. These findings have important implications for our understanding of immune coordination at barrier surfaces and the contribution of innate-like lymphocytes on the front lines of immune defense.
Impact of changing trends of treatment on outcome of cerebral gliosarcoma: A tertiary care centre experience
Authors: Narendra Kumar , Bhattacharyya Tapesh , Karan Chanchalani , Shalunke Praveen , Radotra B D , Yadav Budhi Singh
Published: January 2015

Aim: To assess clinicopathological features and outcomes in patients of primary gliosarcoma with changing trends of treatment. Materials and Methods: Medical records were reviewed and data collected on primary gliosarcoma over a 5-year period (2009–2013) from the departmental case files. Results: A total 27 patients were included in this study. The median age of presentation was 54 years. There was a slight male preponderance, with male to female ratio of 1.25:1. The most common location of the tumor was temporal lobe (44.4%). Gross total resection was possible in 19 cases, near total excision was done in five cases, and only partial excision with decompression in three cases. Of the 27 patients, 80.8% patients received post-operative radical external beam radiotherapy of 60 Gy/30#/6 weeks. Concurrent and adjuvant temozolomide was used in 42.3% cases, depending on affordability and tolerance. Median overall survival was 9 months. On subgroup analysis, median overall survival in the radiotherapy plus temozolomide group was 10 months as compared to 9 months in the radiotherapy alone group; however, this was not statistically significant.(P = 0.244). Conclusion: Treating Gliosarcoma is a major therapeutic challenge for a clinician because of its poor prognosis, aggressive clinical behavior, rarity, and limited clinical experience. With surgery and concurrent chemoradiation, we were able to achieve a median overall survival of 9 months. Addition of temozolomide has shown a better trend in survival though it is not statistically significant.
Simulation of Earthquake Rupture Dynamics in Complex Geometries Using Coupled Finite Difference and Finite Volume Methods
Authors: O'Reilly Ossian , Nordström Jan , Kozdon Jeremy E. , Dunham Eric M.
Published: January 2015

We couple a node-centered finite volume method to a high order finite difference method to simulate dynamic earthquake ruptures along nonplanar faults in two dimensions. The finite volume method is implemented on an unstructured mesh, providing the ability to handle complex geometries. The geometric complexities are limited to a small portion of the overall domain and elsewhere the high order finite difference method is used, enhancing efficiency. Both the finite volume and finite difference methods are in summation-by-parts form. Interface conditions coupling the numerical solution across physical interfaces like faults, and computational ones between structured and unstructured meshes, are enforced weakly using the simultaneous-approximation-term technique. The fault interface condition, or friction law, provides a nonlinear relation between fields on the two sides of the fault, and allows for the particle velocity field to be discontinuous across it. Stability is proved by deriving energy estimates; stability, accuracy, and efficiency of the hybrid method are confirmed with several computational experiments. The capabilities of the method are demonstrated by simulating an earthquake rupture propagating along the margins of a volcanic plug.
Formation time and mean movement velocities of the 7 August Zhouqu debris flows extracted from broadband seismic records
Authors: Li Z. , Huang X. , Xu Q. , Fan J. , Yu D. , Hao Z. , Qiao X.
Published: January 2015

Abstract. The catastrophic Zhouqu debris flows, which were induced by heavy rainfall, occurred at approximately midnight of 7 August 2010 (Beijing time, UTC + 8) and claimed 1765 lives. Broadband seismic signals recorded by the Zhouqu seismic station nearby are acquired and analyzed in this paper. The seismic signals are divided into two separate parts for the first time using the crucial time of 23:33:10 (Bejing time, UTC +8), with distinctly different frequency characteristics on time-by-time normalized spectrograms and amplitude increasing patterns on smoothed envelopes. They are considered to be generated by the development stage and the maturity stage of the Sanyanyu debris flow respectively. Seismic signals corresponding to the development stage have a broader main frequency band of approximately 0–15 Hz than that of the maturity stage, which is around 1–10 Hz. The N–S component can detect the development stage of the debris flow about 3 min earlier than other components due to its southward flow direction. Two sub-stages within the maturity stage are recognized from best-fitted amplitude increasing velocities and the satellite image of the Sanyanyu flow path and the mean movement velocities of the Sanyanyu debris flow during these two sub-stages are estimated to be 9.2 and 9.7 m s−1 respectively.
“Becoming One”: Embodying Korean P’ungmul Percussion Band Music and Dance through Site-Specific Intermodal Transmission
Authors: Kwon Donna Lee
Published: January 2015

Abstract. This article focuses on the P’ilbong p’ungmul transmission center as a case study of a relatively new type of cultural institution in South Korea. I examine how these transmission centers structure the experience of an expressive folk culture form by emphasizing site-specific instruction and employing intermodal pedagogical techniques that specifically heighten an awareness of the body in both place and space. I argue that the P’ilbong p’ungmul transmission center encourages the embodiment of an alternative Korean sensibility that is expressed through music, dance and other social activities, but is further enhanced by situating the body within iconically “Korean” spaces.

요약. 이 논문은 한국의 다소 새로운 형태의 문화시설이라 할 수 있는 필 봉농악 전수회관에 관한 사례를 다르고 있다. 이 글에서 연구자는 전수관 이라는 장소에 맞춘 교육과 장소와 공간에서 신체에 대한 인식을 고양시 키는 통합적인 교육방식을 강조함으로써 어떻게 필봉농악 전수관이 풍부 한 표현이 담긴 민속문화의 경험을 구성하는지를 검토하고자 한다. 이를 통해 연구자는 필봉농악 전수관이 음악, 춤, 그리고 사교적인 활동을 통해 드러나는 대안적 한국인의 감성을 형상화 할 뿐만 아니라 한발 더 나아가 신체를 상징적으로 “한국적 공간”속에 위치시킴으로써 이러한 감성을 더 욱 강화되고 있음을 보여주고자 한다.
Performing Colonic Mast Cell Counts in Patients With Chronic Diarrhea of Unknown Etiology Has Limited Diagnostic Use
Authors: Sethi Aisha , Jain Dhanpat , Roland Bani Chander , Kinzel Jason , Gibson Joanna , Schrader Ronald , Hanson Joshua Anspach
Published: January 2015

Context

Mastocytic enterocolitis is a recently described entity defined by chronic diarrhea of unknown etiology and normal colon biopsy results with increased mast cells (MCs) seen on special stains. These patients may benefit from mast cell stabilizers; however, the clinical utility of MC counts remains unknown.

Objective

To determine the clinical utility of colonic MC counts on normal biopsies in patients with chronic diarrhea of unknown etiology.

Design

Blinded MC counts using a c-Kit stain were performed in 76 consecutive patients with chronic diarrhea of unknown etiology who had normal colon biopsy results and in 89 consecutive control patients presenting for screening colonoscopy. Mast cells were counted per single high-power field in the highest-density area. A t test was used to compare the counts, and receiver operating characteristic curves were generated to examine sensitive and specific cutoff values.

Results

Overall, MC counts averaged 31 MCs per high-power field in the study group versus 24 MCs per high-power field in the control group (P < .001). When stratified by location, a significant increase was seen in biopsies from the left colon only. Receiver operating characteristic analysis revealed that overall MC counts, left-sided MC counts, and the difference between right- and left-sided MC counts did not yield discriminatory cutoff values (area under the curve, 0.68, 0.74, and 0.81, respectively).

Conclusions

Mast cell counts were increased in patients with chronic diarrhea of unknown etiology, primarily in the left colon. However, receiver operating characteristic analysis demonstrates no discriminatory cutoff values. Quantitative MC stains yield little useful diagnostic information, and further studies are necessary to determine whether mastocytic enterocolitis truly represents a distinct entity.
Splenic Lymphangioma
Authors: Ioannidis Ioannis , Kahn Andrea G.
Published: January 2015

Splenic lymphangioma is a rare malformation of the splenic lymphatic channels, mostly seen in children. It is characterized by the presence of cysts, resulting from increases in the size and number of thin-walled lymphatic vessels that are abnormally interconnected and dilated. The condition may be restricted to the spleen, but in most cases it involves multiple organs (systemic lymphangiomatosis). The clinical picture is variable; small lesions are often incidentally detected through imaging studies, while larger lesions can result in compression of organs, causing pain or rupture even after minor trauma. Therefore, splenic lymphangiomas should be considered in the differential diagnosis of splenomegaly or left upper quadrant pain even among adults and should be immediately treated with splenectomy; delay in the therapeutic intervention can lead to life-threatening complications.
Systematic Review of the Effectiveness of Fine-Needle Aspiration and/or Core Needle Biopsy for Subclassifying Lymphoma
Authors: Frederiksen John K. , Sharma Meenal , Casulo Carla , Burack W. Richard
Published: January 2015

Context

The World Health Organization system for lymphoma classification relies on histologic findings from excisional biopsies. In contradistinction to expert guidelines, practitioners increasingly rely on fine-needle aspiration cytology and core needle biopsies rather than excisional biopsies to diagnose lymphomas.

Objective

To determine a rate at which fine-needle aspiration cytology and core needle biopsies, combined with flow cytometry and/or genetic techniques, can provide a diagnosis sufficient for optimal medical management of lymphoma.

Data Sources

The English-language literature on fine-needle aspiration cytology and core needle biopsies for lymphoma was reviewed to identify studies that provided interpretations of all specimens regardless of whether these were deemed diagnostic.

Conclusions

Forty-two studies (1989–2012) specified the lymphoma subtypes for each diagnosis or indicated a rate at which the methods failed to provide a diagnosis. The median rate at which fine-needle aspiration cytology and core needle biopsies yielded a subtype-specific diagnosis of lymphoma was 74%. Strictly adhering to expert guidelines, which state that follicular lymphoma cannot be graded by these techniques, decreased the diagnostic yield further to 66%. Thus, 25% to 35% of fine-needle aspirates and/or core biopsies of nodes must be followed by an excisional lymph node biopsy to fully classify lymphoma.
Differentiating Benign From Malignant Bone Marrow B-Cell Lymphoid Aggregates: A Statistical Analysis of Distinguishing Features
Authors: Johnston Abbey , Brynes Russell K. , Naemi Kaveh , Reisian Niloufar , Bhansali Deepty , Zhao Xiaohui , Rezk Sherif A.
Published: January 2015

Context

Lymphoid aggregates are seen in a minority of bone marrow biopsy specimens, and when present, their neoplastic nature is often apparent by morphologic evaluation. However, the distinction between benign and malignant aggregates can be a diagnostic challenge when there are multiple aggregates with no documented history of lymphoma.

Objective

To aid in the distinction between benign and malignant B-cell lymphoid aggregates.

Design

Previously, we described specific distribution patterns for B and T lymphocytes within bone marrow aggregates. To statistically analyze the significance of these patterns as well as previously reported criteria, we examined 128 bone marrow specimens with benign aggregates and 78 specimens with documented malignant B-cell aggregates and calculated specific odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) to aid in differentiating between benign and malignant B-cell aggregates.

Results

Aggregates with infiltrative edges (OR, 80.54; 95% CI, 31.76–204.21), a B-cell pattern (OR, 30.08; 95% CI, 13.28–68.10), paratrabecular location (OR, 10.17; 95% CI, 3.96–26.12), size greater than 600 μm (OR, 6.83: 95% CI, 3.61–12.93), or cytologic atypia correlated with malignancy.

Conclusion

When taken collectively, the presence of more than 2 of these characteristic features was strongly predictive of malignancy.
Engineers and the Making of the Francoist Regime
Authors: Camprubí Lino
Published: January 2015

How engineers and agricultural scientists became key actors inFranco's regime and Spain's forced modernization.

In this book, Lino Camprubí argues that science and technology were at the very center of the building of Franco's Spain. Previous histories of early Francoist science and technology have described scientists and engineers as working “under” Francoism, subject to censorship and bound by politically mandated research agendas. Camprubí offers a different perspective, considering instead scientists' and engineers' active roles in producing those political mandates. Many scientists and engineers had been exiled, imprisoned, or executed by the regime. Camprubí argues that those who remained made concrete the mission of “redemption” that Franco had invented for himself. This gave them the opportunity to become key actors—and mid-level decision makers—within the regime.

Camprubí describes a series of projects across Spain undertaken by the civil engineers and agricultural scientists who placed themselves at the center of their country's forced modernization. These include a coal silo, built in 1953, viewed as an embodiment of Spain's industrialized landscape; links between laboratories, architects, and the national Catholic church (and between technology and authoritarian control); vertically organized rice production and research on genetics; river management and the contested meanings of self-sufficiency; and the circulation of construction standards by mobile laboratories as an engine for European integration. Separately, each chapter offers a fascinating microhistory that illustrates the coevolution of Francoist science, technology, and politics. Taken together, they reveal networks of people, institutions, knowledge, artifacts, and technological systems woven together to form a new state.
Dynamic Contrast‐Enhanced Ultrasound for Quantification of Tissue Perfusion
Authors: Fröhlich Eckhart , Muller Reinhold , Cui Xin-Wu , Schreiber-Dietrich Dagmar , Dietrich Christoph F.
Published: January 2015

Dynamic contrast‐enhanced ultrasound (US) imaging, a technique that uses microbubble contrast agents with diagnostic US, has recently been technically summarized and reviewed by a European Federation of Societies for Ultrasound in Medicine and Biology position paper. However, the practical applications of this imaging technique were not included. This article reviews and discusses the published literature on the clinical use of dynamic contrast‐enhanced US. This review finds that dynamic contrast‐enhanced US imaging is the most sensitive cross‐sectional real‐time method for measuring the perfusion of parenchymatous organs noninvasively. It can measure parenchymal perfusion and therefore can differentiate between benign and malignant tumors. The most important routine clinical role of dynamic contrast‐enhanced US is the prediction of tumor responses to chemotherapy within a very short time, shorter than using Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumors criteria. Other applications found include quantifying the hepatic transit time, diabetic kidneys, transplant grafts, and Crohn disease. In addition, the problems involved in using dynamic contrast‐enhanced US are discussed.
Volumetric Blood Flow in Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt Revision Using 3‐Dimensional Doppler Sonography
Authors: Pinter Stephen Z. , Rubin Jonathan M. , Kripfgans Oliver D. , Novelli Paula M. , Vargas-Vila Mario , Hall Anne L. , Fowlkes J. Brian
Published: January 2015

Objectives

Three‐dimensional (3D)/4‐dimensional (4D) sonographic measurement of blood volume flow in transjugular intrahepatic porto systemic shunt revision with the intention of objective assessment of shunt patency.

Methods

A total of 17 patients were recruited (12 male and 5 female; mean age, 55 years; range, 30–69 years). An ultrasound system equipped with a 2.0–5.0‐MHz probe was used to acquire multivolume 3D/4D color Doppler data sets to assess prerevision and postrevision shunt volume flow. Volume flow was computed offline based on the principle of surface integration of Doppler‐measured velocity vectors in a lateral‐elevational c‐surface positioned at the color flow focal depth (range, 8.0–11.5 cm). Volume flow was compared to routine measurements of the prerevision and postrevision portosystemic pressure gradient. Prerevision volume flow was compared with the outcome to determine whether a flow threshold for revision could be defined.

Results

Linear regression of data from revised transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt cases showed an inverse correlation between the mean‐normalized change in prerevision and postrevision shunt volume flow and the mean‐normalized change in the prerevision and postrevision portosystemic pressure gradient (r2 = 0.51; P = .020). Increased shunt blood flow corresponded to a decreased pressure gradient. Comparison of prerevision flows showed preliminary threshold development at 1534 mL/min, below which a shunt revision may be recommended (P = .21; area under the receiver operating characteristic curve = 0.78).

Conclusions

Shunt volume flow measurement with 3D/4D Doppler sonography provides a potential alternative to standard pulsed wave Doppler metrics as an indicator of shunt function and predictor of revision.
Antivascular Ultrasound Therapy
Authors: Hunt Stephen J. , Gade Terence , Soulen Michael C. , Pickup Stephen , Sehgal Chandra M.
Published: January 2015

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to investigate the treatment effects of antivascular ultrasound (US) with dynamic contrast‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), contrast‐enhanced sonography, and histopathologic analysis in a murine melanoma model.

Methods

Subcutaneous K1735 murine melanoma tumors were grown in syngeneic C3H/HeN mice. Quantitative tumor perfusion characteristics were measured before antivascular US treatment with both dynamic contrast‐enhanced MRI and high‐resolution contrast‐enhanced sonography. Tumors were subsequently treated with 1 or 3 minutes of continuous low‐intensity US after intravenous administration of a US contrast agent. Treatment effects were assessed by quantitative dynamic contrast‐enhanced MRI, contrast‐enhanced sonography, histopathologic analysis, and immunohistochemistry.

Results

Low‐intensity antivascular US treatment resulted in approximately a doubling and tripling of the time to peak enhancement on dynamic contrast‐enhanced MRI in the 1‐ and 3‐minute treatment groups, respectively, along with a significant decrease in contrast wash‐out (P < .01). There was a potent reduction in tumor perfusion on contrast‐enhanced sonography, with approximately 40% and 70% reductions in the tumor area perfused as assessed by contrast‐enhanced sonography after 1 (P < .05) and 3 (P < .01) minutes of antivascular US. The pathologic and histologic changes spatially correlated with the regions of diminished perfusion seen on contrast‐enhanced sonography and dynamic contrast‐enhanced MRI. Antivascular US therapy resulted in a significant increase in the number of hypoxia‐inducible factor 1A+ cells, indicating tumor hypoxia (P < .01), and of CD45+/CD3+ cells in tumors after treatment, in keeping with increased T‐cell infiltration (P < .01).

Conclusions

Antivascular US treatment effects extend beyond direct cytotoxicity from hemorrhagic necrosis to include ischemia‐mediated cytotoxicity, enhanced small molecule retention, and intratumoral immune activation.
Sonographically Guided Sternoclavicular Joint Injection
Authors: Pourcho Adam M. , Sellon Jacob L. , Smith Jay
Published: January 2015

Objectives

The primary purpose of this investigation was to describe and validate a sonographically guided technique for injecting the sternoclavicular joint (SCJ) using a cadaveric model.

Methods

A single experienced operator (J.S.) completed 13 sonographically guided SCJ injections on 7 unembalmed cadaveric specimens (4 male and 3 female) using an out‐of‐plane, caudad‐to‐cephalad technique to place 1 mL of diluted blue latex into the joint. Within 72 hours, study coinvestigators dissected each specimen to determine the injectate location.

Results

All 13 injections accurately placed latex into the SCJ with a predilection for the clavicular side (accuracy, 100%; 95% confidence interval, 73%–100%). Three injections (23%) placed all latex on the clavicular side of the SCJ in the presence of a complete intra‐articular disk. Dissection revealed incomplete degenerated disks in the remaining 10 joints. Seven of these injections (54%) clearly placed more than 80% of the latex on the clavicular side, whereas the remaining 3 injections (23%) showed nearly equal latex distribution between the clavicular and sternal sides. No injection resulted in neurovascular injury or extracapsular flow.

Conclusions

Sonographically guided SCJ injections can be considered in the diagnosis and management of patients presenting with medial shoulder pain syndromes and, using the technique described herein, have a predilection to target the clavicular portion of the joint. In younger patients with possible complete intra‐articular disks or in patients with sternal‐side conditions, practitioners should consider confirming sternal‐side flow after injection or attempt to specifically target the sternal side of the joint.