bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Positron Emission Tomographic Imaging in Stroke
Authors: Sahathevan Ramesh , Linden Thomas , Villemagne Victor L. , Churilov Leonid , Ly John V. , Rowe Christopher , Donnan Geoffrey , Brodtmann Amy
Published: November 2015

Background and Purpose—

Cardiovascular risk factors significantly increase the risk of developing Alzheimer disease. A possible mechanism may be via ischemic infarction–driving amyloid deposition. We conducted a study to determine the presence of β-amyloid in infarct, peri-infarct, and hemispheric areas after stroke. We hypothesized that an infarct would trigger β-amyloid deposition, with deposition over time.

Methods—

Patients were recruited within 40 days of acute ischemic stroke and imaged with computed tomographic or magnetic resonance imaging and Pittsburgh compound B (11C-PiB) positron emission tomographic scans. Follow-up positron emission tomographic scanning was performed in a subgroup ≤18 months after the stroke event. Standardized uptake value ratios for regions of interest were analyzed after coregistration.

Results—

Forty-seven patients were imaged with
11
C-PiB positron emission tomography. There was an increase in
11
C-PiB accumulation in the stroke area compared with a reference region in the contralesional hemisphere, which was not statistically significant (median difference in standardized uptake value ratio, 0.07 [95% confidence interval, −0.06 to 0.123];
P
=0.452). There was no significant increase in the accumulation of
11
C-PiB in the peri-infarct region or in the ipsilesional hemisphere (median difference in standardized uptake value ratio, 0.04 [95% confidence interval, −0.02 to 0.10];
P
=0.095). We repeated
11
C-PiB positron emission tomography in 21 patients and found a significant reduction in accumulation of
11
C-PiB between regions of interest (median difference in standardized uptake value ratio, −0.08 [95% confidence interval, −0.23 to −0.03];
P
=0.04).

Conclusions—

There was no significant increase in
11
C-PiB accumulation in or around the infarct. There was no increase in ipsilesional hemispheric
11
C-PiB accumulation over time. We found no evidence that infarction leads to sustained or increased β-amyloid deposition ≤18 months after stroke.
Rates of Return to Schooling in Thailand
Authors: Tangtipongkul Kaewkwan
Published: November 2015

Using 2007–2010 data from Thailand's National Labor Force Survey, this paper examines the rates of return to schooling. The Mincer-type rate of return to investment in schooling was estimated. The rates of return to schooling for work experience are significantly positive, but at a decreasing rate. Region of residence and variation in gross provincial product per capita are significant factors in determining the private rate of return. The rates of return to schooling by type of industry reveal higher earnings in mining, utilities, construction, manufacturing, and services than in agriculture. The private and social returns on vocational secondary education attainment are greater than on general secondary education. Finally, the private returns on university attainment for women exceed men by about 1.5 percentage points.
Commanding Angels
Authors: Leubner Ben
Published: November 2015

This article investigates the conception of and attitude towards the ‘beyond’ in the work of the twentieth-century poets Rainer Maria Rilke and James Merrill, arguing for striking similarities in this regard despite the two poets being of different generations, nationalities, and languages. While the influence of poets such as W. B. Yeats and W. H. Auden on Merrill has been thoroughly illustrated by others, this essay aims to illustrate the no less paramount but less often discussed influence of Rilke, especially in matters regarding the spiritual.
The “Synoptic Apocalypse” (Mt 24–25 Par.) and Its Jewish Source
Authors: Lourié Basil
Published: November 2015

The so-called “Synoptic Apocalypse” is a reworking of a Second Temple period Jewish apocalypse (best preserved in Matthew), whose structure is recoverable from the contents and the order of Jesus’ parables.
Christian Platonism and the Debate about Afterlife
Authors: Krausmuller Dirk
Published: November 2015

In the sixth and seventh centuries the belief in an active afterlife and its corollaries, the cult of the saints and the care of the dead, came under attack by a group of people who claimed that the souls could not function without their bodies. Some defenders of the traditional point of view sought to rebut this argument through recourse to the Platonic concept of the self-moved soul, which is not in need of the body. However, the fit between Platonism and traditional notions of the afterlife was not as complete as might first be thought. This article focuses on two Christian thinkers, John of Scythopolis and Maximus the Confessor, who were deeply influenced by Platonic ideas. In his Scholia on the writings of Pseudo-Dionysius John states clearly that after death the souls of ordinary human beings are inactive whereas the souls of the spiritual elite have entered the realm of eternal realities, which is entirely separate from this world. The case of Maximus is more complex. One of his letters is a spirited defence of the posthumous activity of the soul. However, in his spiritual writings he outlines a conceptual framework that shows a marked resemblance to the position of John of Scythopolis.
On Some Sources of the Life of Alexander Oshevensky (The Theme of the Family in the Hagiography)
Authors: Pigin Alexander V.
Published: November 2015

(1567) is a Northern Russian hagiographical work devoted to the founder of the St. Niсholas Alexander-Oshevensky Monastery, which was located nearby the town of Kargopol. The article analyses hagiographer Theodosius’ techniques for dealing with literary sources, especially with two Byzantine texts, The Ladder by John Climacus and The Life of Alexis the Man of God. Theodosius uses these sources to develop one of the major themes of his own work, that is, the relationship between St. Alexander and his family. The family theme bears ambiguous meaning. On the one hand, the family is rejected from the standpoint of monastic asceticism, but on the other hand, it is rendered as the ultimate value and stronghold of Christian morality.
A new species of Campanula (Campanulaceae) from Turkey
Authors: Mutlu Birol , Karakuş Şükrü
Published: November 2015

Campanula malatyaensis Mutlu & Karakuş is described as a new species from the Malatya province (Eastern Turkey). The new species belongs to section Tracheliopsis (Buser) Damboldt and morphologically resembles C. myritifolia Boiss. & Heldr. and C. fruticulosa (Schwarz & Davis) Damboldt. Morphological differences between C. malatyaensis and these taxa are discussed. This study presents SEM images (pollen, seed, corolla hair, and stylus hairs), photographs (type specimen, habitat, flowering specimens, and fruiting specimens), and conservation status of the new species.
Lectotypification of Callicarpa integerrima (Lamiaceae)
Authors: Ma Zhonghui , Huang Rongshao , Su Zhiwei
Published: November 2015

The genus Callicarpa Linnaeus (1753: 111) with about 140 species is mainly distributed in temperate, subtropical and tropical Asia, America, Australia and the Pacific Islands (Harley et al. 2004; Bramley 2013; Zhang 2014; Ma & Su 2015), with 48 species and 13 varieties occurring in China (Chen & Gilbert 1994). Callicarpa was long thought to be included in Verbenaceae. However, based on morphological and molecular phylogenetic studies on the Verbenaceae and Lamiaceae, Callicarpa was transferred to Lamiaceae, along with Viticoideae and several other genera (Bramley 2009, 2013; Ma et al. 2015). During a taxonimic study of this genus in China, the name C. integerrima Champion ex Bentham (1853: 135) tourned out not yet typified. C. integerrima is currently accepted as endemic species of China (Chen & Gilbert 1994) and was described based on plants collected in Hongkong (Bentham 1853), but no specimens were cited in the protologue. We traced in K two duplicate specimens (K barcodes K000674744 and K000674745) collected by J.G. Champion in Hongkong that fit the protologue and can be regarded as syntypes (Art. 9.5 of the ICN, McNeill et al. 2012). The specimen K barcode K000674744 is better preserved and complete (flowers and fruits), and is selected here as the lectotype.
Typification and nomenclatural notes on twenty-three names of Buddleja (Schrophulariaceae)
Authors: O'Leary Nataly
Published: November 2015

Twenty-three Buddleja names, either accepted species or recognized synonyms, are here lectotypified, or a typification remark is provided. Nomenclatural notes are also included, specifying the legitimacy of names of Buddleja.
A new polyploid species of Limonium (Plumbaginaceae) from the Western Mediterranean basin
Authors: FERRER-GALLEGO PEDRO PABLO , NAVARRO ALBERT , PÉREZ PATRICIA , ROSELLÓ ROBERTO , ROSSELLÓ JOSEP , ROSATO MARCELA , LAGUNA EMILIO
Published: November 2015

A new species of Plumbaginaceae, Limonium irtaensis, is described and illustrated from the Western Mediterranean basin (Iberian Peninsula). The new species is triploid (2n = 26) and shows a papillate stigma and pollen with a fine reticulate exine (B type). A detailed morphological description is given, and its main diagnostic characters are compared with the related species. Conservation status has been assessed according to the IUCN protocol.
Stenopodidean shrimps (Crustacea: Decapoda) from New Caledonian waters
Authors: GOY JOSEPH W.
Published: November 2015

A small collection of 159 specimens of stenopodidean shrimps from New Caledonian waters has been studied and found to represent 13 species in 6 genera, adding 8 new species of stenopodideans to the Southwest Pacific fauna. Two new species are recognized, Richardina crosnieri n. sp. and Spongiocaris neocaledonensis n. sp. Two species of Odontozona are redescribed. Illustrations are provided for all 13 species. Association with host hexactinellid sponges is verified for some of the commensal spongicoloids, and the first association of a stenopodidean shrimp with a gorgonian is reported. Bathymetric ranges are extended for the infraorder, as well as at the generic and specific levels.
Myrmecophilous pygmephoroid mites (Acari: Pygmephoroidea) associated with Lasius flavus (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) in Russia
Authors: KHAUSTOV ALEXANDER A.
Published: November 2015

Twenty four species of pygmephoroid mites (Acari: Pygmephoroidea: Neopygmephoridae, Scutacaridae, Microdispidae) are recorded from the ant Lasius flavus (Fabricius) or from its nests from Western Siberia and Crimea. Four of them of the genus Scutacarus Gros, 1845 (Acari: Scutacaridae), S. insolitus sp. nov., S. heterotrichus sp. nov., S. moseri sp. nov. and S. sibiriensis sp. nov. are described as new for science. Four species of scutacarid mites are recorded for the first time in Russia. The comparison of pygmephoroid mite communities associated with Lasius flavus from Crimean and West Siberian populations and notes on phoresy of pygmephoroid mites on ants are provided.
Three new species of the Indo-Pacific fish genus Hime (Aulopidae, Aulopiformes), all resembling the type species H. japonica (Günther 1877)
Authors: GOMON MARTIN F. , STRUTHERS CARL D.
Published: November 2015

Descriptions of three new species of the aulopid genus Hime from the central and western Pacific and presumably the easternmost Indian Ocean are presented. Hime surrubea sp. nov., confined to the Hawaiian Island region, has been misidentified in species accounts and faunal lists as H. japonica and although resembling it is separable from that species by its shorter caudal peduncle, slightly larger head, larger eye, especially relative to head size, and slightly smaller pectoral and pelvic fins. Hime capitonis sp. nov. is known conclusively only from seamounts off the southern tip of New Caledonia and Vanuatu, and is distinguishable by its distinctively large head (32.3–35.6% SL) and eyes (orbital diameter 10.8–13.0% SL) and relatively few scales between the anus and anal fin origin (7–9). The Indonesian H. caudizoma sp. nov. is so far known from only 8 specimens, acquired in markets in southeastern Lombok and presumably caught nearby in what would be regarded the eastern reaches of the Indian Ocean. The species is recognisable by its dorsal fin of rather uniform moderate height with nearly straight distal margin and 17 rather than 16 rays, none of which is filamentous in either sex, the second penultimate ray rather than anterior rays the longest in males. Like the other two described here, H. caudizoma has among the largest head and eyes of the family. Observations on the dorsal fin form and other features of H. microps Parin & Kotlyar, 1989 are provided based on a large male specimen collected at Rapa Iti, Austral Islands and a re-evaluation of the original description.
A simple method for inducing estrous cycle stage-specific morphological changes in the vaginal epithelium of immature female mice
Authors: Merkwitz Claudia , Blaschuk Orest , Eplinius Franziska , Winkler Jana , Prömel Simone , Schulz Angela , Ricken Albert
Published: November 2015

The vaginal epithelium of the adult female laboratory rodent changes from mucous secretion to cornification over the course of the estrous cycle. The morphophysiological changes occur with such regularity, accuracy and precision that the specific stage of the estrous cycle in the rat can be determined by inspection of the vaginal opening and/or exfoliative vaginal cytology. However, in the mouse, post-mortem vaginal histology is often required to determine the estrous cycle stage for ensuring the required level of reliability. Consequently, an excess number of female adult mice are needed to allow for the delivery of sufficient numbers of mice in a desired estrous cycle stage. In this study, we demonstrate that the standard procedure for oocyte superovulation and collection in the laboratory mouse (e.g. injection of equine chorionic gonadotropin followed 48 h later by human chorionic gonadotropin) can also be reliably used to induce changes in the epithelium of 3.5-week-old mouse vaginas in an estrous cycle stage-specific manner (e.g. establishment and replacement of a mucous secreting epithelium with a cornified epithelium; induction of cornification-associated loricrin expression). The superovulation protocol thus allows for the efficient and economic induction of estrous cycle stage-specific characteristics in the Müllerian duct-derived vagina thereby avoiding the necessity of post-mortem identification of the estrous cycle stage. In addition, our study indicates that the laboratory mouse vagina is an excellent organ for studying the sequence of events leading to cornification.
Use of the RatLoft decreases pup mortality in lactating mice
Authors: Weaver S R , Cronick C M , Prichard A P , Laporta J , Benevenga N J , Hernandez L L
Published: November 2015

Lactating mice in laboratory conditions are thought to be under considerable stress. Dams may manifest this stress through a decrease in milk yield and/or increase in infanticide. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of access to an environmental enrichment device called the RatLoft on milk yield, circulating serotonin, and pup mortality using both wild-type mice and mice genetically deficient in tryptophan hydroxylase 1 (TPH1−/−; the rate-limiting enzyme in the non-neuronal serotonin synthesis pathway). Presence or absence of the RatLoft did not affect milk yield or circulating serotonin concentrations overall, but serotonin concentrations decreased throughout the 21-day lactation period. Serotonin concentrations were increased in TPH1-deficient mice with access to the RatLoft compared with those without the RatLoft on day 21. Pup mortality tended to decrease for dams with access to the RatLoft as compared to no RatLoft. Within the TPH1−/− groups, dams with access to the RatLoft tended to kill less pups per dam than dams without the RatLoft. These results demonstrate that access to the RatLoft during lactation decreases pup infanticide by dams. This environmental enrichment may be particularly beneficial to TPH1−/− dams that, in addition to decreased infanticide, had increased serotonin concentrations, possibly indicating enhanced well-being. Use of the RatLoft could prove beneficial to researchers working with lactating mouse models to increase the number of pups weaned and positively impact the welfare of the dam.
Preparation of breathable and superhydrophobic polyurethane electrospun webs with silica nanoparticles
Authors: Jin Shaohua , Park Yaewon , Park Chung Hee
Published: November 2015

Polyurethane (PU) is a unique polymeric material with excellent chemical and physical properties and is widely used in textile materials. There has been a need for superhydrophobic PU for wider applications, such as coating materials. In this research, SiO2 nanoparticle (SNP) incorporated PU webs with superhydrophobic and breathable properties were prepared by one-step sol-gel electrospinning and post-treated with a non-fluorinated water repellent chemical, n-dodecyltrimethoxysilane (DTMS). SNPs were observed to be distributed evenly all over the fiber surfaces when 1–6 wt% SNP and tetraethoxysilane (TEOS)/acetic acid solution were added. TEOS was hydrolyzed to form larger nanoparticles while developing cross-linking with aromatic groups of the PU matrix. Interestingly, the addition of 20 nm SNPs was thought to act as nucleating seeds for enhanced hydrolysis of TEOS within the PU matrix. The hierarchical surface roughness consists of different sized SNPs and polymer beads, which resulted in superhydrophobicity with water contact angles as high as 157° and shedding angles as low as 5°. Laminating PU/SNP/DTMS webs onto polyester fabrics maintained the air permeability and water vapor transmission rate, which proves the potential of the developed PU/SNP/DTMS webs for practical applications as textile laminate materials with simple processing.
Study on analytical scheme for human ecological quality control of chromium-complex acid dyes
Authors: Choe Eun Kyung , Kim Young-Zu , Cho Young Dal , Son Seung Hwan
Published: November 2015

Analytical method for determining free chromium in chromium-complex acid dye where Cr is chelated to dye molecules is developed by their solid phase separation using C-18 column. Total Cr was measured by inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) on digested dye samples without the solid phase separation. Aqueous clear solutions extracted from C-18 columns, on the top of which each dye sample dissolved in methanol was loaded, were subjected to ICP-OES measurements for free Cr and to ion chromatographic measurements for Cr(VI), respectively. The deep-dyed nylon fabrics were subjected to the test of extractable Cr with artificial sweat solution. For eight commercial monosulfonated strongly polar Cr-complex acid dyes, total Cr and free Cr in dye products were estimated to be 15,271 mg/kg to 45,677 mg/kg and 193 mg/kg to 4048 mg/kg, respectively, while free Cr(VI) were measured to be 2.35 mg/kg to 16.2 mg/kg. Extractable Cr in their dyed nylon fabrics were measured in the range of 0.28 to 3.95 mg/kg. A proportional relationship between free Cr in dyes and extractable Cr in dyed nylons was observed. The analytical scheme using the solid phase separation using C-18 column is suggested for future quality control of Cr-complex acid dye products so that consequent dyed textiles do not fail in satisfying the globally- recognized human ecological criteria.
The thermal decomposition and heat release properties of the nylon/cotton, polyester/cotton and Nomex/cotton blend fabrics
Authors: Chen Qin , Zhao Tao
Published: November 2015

Cotton blends are very important and widely used in our lives. In this research, the heat release properties and the flammability of the nylon/cotton, the polyester/cotton and the Nomex/cotton blends are investigated. By comparing with the heat release rate (HRR) and other thermal parameters calculated from their individual components, it is found that both the nylon and the polyester have interaction when they are blended with cotton during the decomposition process. For the nylon/cotton fabrics, the blend has lower total heat release (THR) and much higher percent char yield than the arithmetic sum of those of cotton and nylon as single fibers. The char yield of the nylon/cotton blends decreases when the blend contained less cellulose. But for the polyester/cotton fabrics, the blend has higher THR than the arithmetic sum of cotton and polyester as single fibers with a bit increase in the percent char yield, and its char yield increases as the cotton ratio in the blend decreases. It is illustrated that the interaction that occurs between nylon and cotton is different from that between polyester and cotton. In the case of Nomex/cotton blends, the actual HRR curve matches well with the simulated curve, and the THR and percent char yield are almost the same as the calculated data. There is nearly no interaction between Nomex and cotton components during the degradation of the blend. Overall, the results show that the decomposition process of blended fabrics is not simply the addition of the decomposition process of the component single fibers, but is in fact more complicated.
The effect of fibrous structural difference on thermal insulation properties of biological composites: Silkworm cocoons
Authors: Jin Xing , Zhang Jin , Hurren Christopher , Li Jingliang , Rajkhowa Rangam , Wang Xungai
Published: November 2015

As a biological fibrous structure, silkworm cocoon provides multiple protective functionalities to safeguard the silk moth pupa’s metabolic activity. The mechanism of this protection could be adopted in clothing manufacture to provide more comfortable apparel. In this study, the thermal insulation properties of both domestic Bombyx mori ( B. mori) and wild Antheraea pernyi ( A. pernyi) cocoons were investigated under both warm and cold environmental conditions. Computational fluid dynamics models have been developed to simulate the heat transfer process through both types of cocoon wall structures. The simulation results show that the wild A. pernyi cocoon reduces the intensity of convection and heat flux between the environment and the cocoon interior and has higher wind resistance than its domestic counterpart. Compared with A. pernyi cocoon, the B. mori cocoon facilitates easy air transfer and decreases the temperature lag when the surrounding conditions are changed. The new knowledge has significant implications for developing biomimetic thermal functional materials.
Modelling the optimum thermal store and biomass boiler size for a small communal heating scheme
Authors: Faulkes Duncan M
Published: November 2015

This paper presents a study of biomass boiler and thermal store optimisation for a small communal heating scheme. Poor system sizing has been identified by the Carbon Trust and CIBSE as affecting the performance of biomass heating systems, and a review of installations under the Renewable Heat Incentive has shown that typically systems have low utilisation and are less efficient than expected. Thermal store sizing affects the boiler efficiency and a literature review has highlighted that there is little research directly addressing the subject of optimisation of a thermal store for biomass heating systems. This paper studied the problem using a transient simulation of a heating system to establish the boiler and thermal store size that gave minimum energy consumption and the optimum life cycle cost for the range of options. The model demonstrated that for the systems assessed, the smallest boiler that met the design day average load used the least energy and larger thermal stores achieved greater seasonal efficiency. However the Renewable Heat Incentive tariff structure encourages oversized boilers with low utilisation and this gives rise to low seasonal efficiencies.

Practical application: This paper looks into the role of thermal stores in improving biomass boiler efficiency. It also discusses the impact on efficiency that results from decisions to oversize biomass boilers in an attempt to maximise Renewable Heat Incentive income. The conclusions will be relevant to designers of biomass systems who are weighing up the implications of different boiler outputs and heat stores with regard to overall system performance. It may also interest operators who are investigating system performance and policy makers who are looking at how the tariff system could be affecting boiler size and performance.
Energy and exergy analysis of a two-stage cascade refrigeration system
Authors: Mohammadi SM Hojjat , Ameri Mehran
Published: November 2015

A noble integration of a cascade refrigeration system with a two-stage compression chiller is proposed. The compression and the absorption systems have a cascade inter-cooler/evaporator, and the compression system has two compressors working in series. The compressors can be either reciprocating or screw type. This system runs by a driving unit which can be a micro-turbine or a solid oxide fuel cell. The system components are modeled and analyzed through the energy and exergy approaches. The performance parameters of the systems and the second law efficiency are calculated in different operating conditions. The results show that the maximum irreversibilities happen in the generator and the first-stage compressor, and the total destruction is higher when a micro-gas turbine is used as the prime mover. It appears that by using reciprocating compressors, energy and exergy are consumed up to 260% and 188% more efficiently in the proposed system compared to a traditional single-stage compression refrigeration system. The two latter parameters would be 53.7% and 29.2% in case of using screw compressors.

Practical application: So much of our lives rely on refrigeration, from the food that we eat to the transportation and processing of vital resources. Industrial refrigeration systems such as gas compression, oil and gas processing, petrochemicals, power generation, carbon capture and food processing and storage are dependent on low-temperature refrigeration systems. Multi-stage refrigeration cycle is a conventional approach to provide low temperature for industrial processes. The proposed cascade system can reduce the energy consumption of a two-stage refrigeration system, using the waste heat from an industrial process. The first and second law analysis of the proposed system approves the upgrade in energy and exergy efficiencies of this system.
A new way of thinking about environmental building standards: Developing and demonstrating a client-led zero-energy standard
Authors: Parkin Anna , Mitchell Andrew , Coley David
Published: November 2015

There are over 70 low energy and carbon standards in use around the world. None of these standards have been designed by the clients who pay for and occupy the buildings in question. In this work, the client was asked to define the building code for the construction of a new 2800 m2 building via a structured survey. The resulting zero-energy standard simply required the building to incur no energy utility bill. One year of monitoring of the completed building was used to see if the standard had been met. The result of this work is a new way of thinking about environmental building standards that solves many of the issues of obtaining and maintaining buy-in from the client.

Practical application: This is the first time that the client has played a key role in the definition of a low-energy building standard. Measured energy consumption and renewable energy generation data are presented and demonstrate that the zero-energy criteria were successfully met. This work is important as it shows that the client can have a meaningful input into the design of an environmental standard. The paper should be of interest to architects, engineers, building energy researchers and those interested in methods that can be used to reduce the energy demand of buildings.
Thermoelectric cooling heating unit prototype
Authors: Martín-Gómez César , Ibáñez-Puy María , Bermejo-Busto Javier , Sacristán Fernández José Antonio , Ramos Juan Carlos , Rivas Alejandro
Published: November 2015

The article describes from an architectonical point of view the design, assembly, and energy behavior of a prototype for air-conditioning in residential buildings using Peltier cells, which means the application in the field of construction of a technology used in very specific areas. The new system has been designed as an independent, prefabricated, modular construction element that must fit perfectly between the structural floors and is easily adapted to the demands of different buildings. The thermoelectric cooling heating unit is designed to offer a high level of comfort to those living in the building. The only mechanical elements are the dissipation heat fans placed on the outside of the prototype, and heat sinks to transfer the heat from the power elements, reducing the possibilities of failure. The result of all these ideas is the construction of a prefabricated module, consisting of a simplified inhabited housing unit with a thermoelectric installation serving the module, which has obtained a national patent. The results of the thermal and electric behavior demonstrate that the system does not work as well as had been expected; nevertheless, the system has a high potential for its use in buildings associated with photovoltaic.

Practical application: The system opens new ways to the air-conditioning without using the traditional concepts of primary and secondary loop, because the system is highly independent. Their applications could be in building refurbishment where other systems involving the use of water or air are complicated to implement, in spaces where security and resilience are crucial factors (such as surgeries or computer server rooms), or those situations with extreme maximum and minimum temperatures or irregular electrical supply, as those could exist when the army must intervene or an humanitarian disaster occurs.
Diabetes Causation Beliefs Among Spanish-Speaking Patients
Authors: Concha Jeannie Belinda , Mayer Sallie D. , Mezuk Briana R. , Avula Danielle
Published: November 2015

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to explore how the inquiry of cultural diabetes causation beliefs can improve Hispanic/Latino patient self-management.

Methods

Two semistructured focus groups were conducted with 13 Hispanic/Latinos adults diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Prior to taking part in the group discussion, participants completed a demographic survey and the Illness Perception Questionnaire–Revised.

Results

The top 5 diabetes causation items endorsed by participants per the questionnaire included stress or worry, behavior, hereditary, diet/eating habits, and family problems/worries. The qualitative analysis revealed stress as a recurring theme for a cause of diabetes. Work stress was specifically identified as a contributor to unhealthy eating and diabetes. Most participants were aware of and believed in susto and referred to it as coraje (anger). Participants believed that asking patients about their diabetes causation beliefs and emotional status can help health professionals (1) better understand the patient and (2) identify and prioritize diabetes treatments. Participants also indicated that the role of doctors is important and the encouragement that they give to patients is clinically and spiritually valued.

Conclusions

Stress was identified as a cause of diabetes in addition to unhealthy diets and heredity. Asking patients about diabetes causation beliefs and emotional status may help prioritize treatment and management goals.
Pulmonary valve replacement and quality-of-life assessment
Authors: Tsang Flora HF , Wong Sophia J , Cheung Yiu-fai
Published: November 2015

Background

Chronic pulmonary regurgitation is common after repair of tetralogy of Fallot. Despite the deleterious effects of chronic pulmonary regurgitation on right ventricular function, many patients with repaired tetralogy of Fallot remain asymptomatic. Health is defined not only by the absence of disease but also by physical, mental, and social wellbeing. We sought to examine the impact of pulmonary valve replacement on quality of life in asymptomatic patients with repaired tetralogy of Fallot and chronic pulmonary regurgitation.

Methods

From January 2009 to December 2012, 25 (18 male) asymptomatic patients (mean age 23.4 ± 7.4 years) who underwent pulmonary valve replacement for significant pulmonary regurgitation were recruited. Cardiac magnetic resonance was performed pre- and postoperatively. Quality of life was assessed using the Chinese version of the SF-36v2 evaluation tool. Demographics, clinical data, magnetic resonance findings, and quality-of-life scores were collected and calculated for comparison.

Results

After surgery, the indexed right ventricular end-diastolic volume (193 ± 47.3 vs. 105.6 ± 29.6 mL m−2, p < 0.001) and indexed right ventricular end-systolic volume (108.5 ± 32.9 vs. 61.1 ± 23 mL m−2, p < 0.001) decreased significantly. The response rates for pre- and postoperative quality-of-life assessments were 100%. Patients demonstrated improvements in all 8 domains of the SF-36v2 assessment. The physical (46.5 ± 6.6 vs. 49.9 ± 6.4, p = 0.012) and mental (43.7 ± 7.8 vs. 51.9 ± 7.6, p < 0.001) component summary scores increased after surgery.

Conclusion

Pulmonary valve replacement can improve the quality of life in patients with chronic asymptomatic pulmonary regurgitation.
Impact of comorbidity index on morbidity and survival in non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Otake Sotaro , Ohtsuka Takashi , Asakura Keisuke , Kamiyama Ikuo , Kohno Mitsutomo
Published: November 2015

Background

The number of surgeries in older patients with comorbidities is constantly growing. The present study examined the impact of comorbidity on postoperative complications and long-term survival in patients with completely resected non-small cell cancer.

Methods

Between 2004 and 2008, 423 patients with non-small cell lung cancer underwent complete resection. A retrospective comparison of perioperative mortality, morbidity, Charlson comorbidity index (CCI), and postoperative length of hospital stay was performed.

Results

The number of patients with CCI 0, 1–2, and ≥3 was 226, 170 and 27, respectively. The 5-year overall survival was 88% among patients with CCI 0, and 84% in those with CCI ≥1 ( p = 0.05) in all pathological stages. The CCI 0 group had significantly better overall survival than CCI 0 group and 30 (15%) in the CCI ≥1 group ( p = 0.024). Length of stay was shorter in the CCI 0 group (11 ± 5 days) than in the CCI ≥1 group (15 ± 19 days, p = 0.015).

Conclusions

A high CCI correlated with higher postoperative morbidity and longer length of stay. We identified better a prognosis in patients with CCI 0 compared to those with CCI 1–2.
The effect of arm positioning on timing and enhancement of intravenous contrast media at coronary computed tomography angiography
Authors: Svensson Anders , Cederlund Kerstin , Aspelin Peter , Nyman Ulf , Brismar Torkel B
Published: November 2015

Background

Adequate intravenous contrast media (CM) enhancement is crucial for evaluation of the coronary arteries.

Purpose

To compare the timing and enhancement of intravenous CM at coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) when positioning the arms in the traditional superior direction with that of positioning them in the ventral direction during the CM injection.

Material and Methods

One hundred patients were randomized into two groups. Group A ( n = 50) had their arms positioned in the superior direction, resting on a head and arm support. Group B ( n = 50) held their arms resting on the front panel of the computer tomography (CT) scanner. Scanning delay time was defined by test bolus technique. A total of 60 mL iodixanol, 320 mg/mL, was followed by a 50 mL saline flush at 6 mL/s. Cardiac output (CO) and heart rate (HR) were obtained before scanning. The attenuation was calculated by placing regions of interest (ROI) in ascending aorta, left atrium, and inferior vena cava.

Results

More patients in group A compared with group B (26 versus 14) showed a higher attenuation of the left atrium in comparison to the ascending aorta ( P < 0.05). Body weight (BW) and CO were significantly related to the attenuation of ascending aorta ( P < 0.01).

Conclusion

By placing the arms in a ventral, instead of superior position the frequency of too early imaging at CCTA can be reduced.
Incorporating the hepatobiliary phase of gadobenate dimeglumine-enhanced MRI in the diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma: increasing the sensitivity without compromising specificity
Authors: Cortis Kelvin , Liotta Rosa , Miraglia Roberto , Caruso Settimo , Tuzzolino Fabio , Luca Angelo
Published: November 2015

Background

Diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is centered on wash-in of contrast during the arterial phase followed by washout during the portal or delayed venous phase. Nodules showing hypointensity on the hepatobiliary phase are also likely to represent HCC, however, the role of this phase is not yet established.

Purpose

To investigate the role of the hepatobiliary phase on Gadobenate dimeglumine (Gd-BOPTA) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in characterizing HCCs lacking the typical arterial enhancement and venous washout.

Material and Methods

Ninety-seven cirrhotic patients (78 men, 19 women; mean age, 58.5 years) who underwent liver transplantation (2004–2012) and Gd-BOPTA enhanced MRI within 3 months of surgery were retrospectively reviewed. A nodule-by-nodule analysis was performed, followed by liver explant correlation. Statistical analysis was then performed by a biostatistician using commercially available software.

Results

A total of 193 HCCs were found in 97 liver explants, of which 24.9% (48/193) were not detectable on imaging. The 145 HCCs seen on imaging showed the typical wash-in/washout pattern (Pattern A) in 46.9% (68/145), arterial enhancement without washout (Pattern B) in 37.9% (55/145), and hypovascularity on arterial and venous sequences (Pattern C) in 15.2% (22/145). Pattern A was exclusive to HCC. Twenty-three of the 55 HCCs showing Pattern B were also hypointense on the hepatobiliary phase (Pattern B1). Combining Pattern B1 with Pattern A raises the sensitivity of HCC characterization from 46.9% to 62.8% ( P = 0.007), with no significant compromise on specificity.

Conclusion

When coupled with Pattern A, Pattern B1 augments sensitivity of HCC characterization with no significant compromise on the specificity.
To assess the association between vertebral marrow fat content and colorectal adenoma in postmenopausal women using magnetic resonance spectroscopy
Authors: Xu Haidong , Zhang Yuqin , Dong Haibo , Pei Feng , Li Guanwu , Wu Dongmei
Published: November 2015

Background

Although lower bone mineral density (BMD) is considered to have an increased risk for colorectal adenoma, no association between marrow fat content and colorectal adenoma has been elucidated yet.

Purpose

To evaluate the relationship between marrow fat fraction (MFF) and the presence of colorectal adenoma in postmenopausal women using magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS).

Material and Methods

We performed a cross-sectional observational study on 152 postmenopausal patients with colorectal adenoma and 100 matched control subjects who underwent screening colonoscopy, biochemical measurements, dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, and MRS. Logistic regression models were performed to assess the relationships among BMD, MFF, and colorectal adenoma.

Results

With univariate analysis, marrow fat accumulation was higher and BMD values were lower in patients with colorectal adenoma compared with those in controls. After adjustment for potential confounders including demographics, health history, blood lipid levels, indexes of glucose metabolism, and validated measures of diet and physical activity, MFF was significantly positively associated with colorectal adenoma (odds ratio [OR], 1.64; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.10–2.46; P = 0.008). Vertebral BMD, but not total hip and femoral neck BMD, was inversely related with colorectal adenoma (OR, 0.62; 95% CI, 0.14–0.89; P = 0.027). Additionally, MFF was associated with adenoma number, size, and high-risk adenoma (all P < 0.01). MFF was found to be an independent risk factor of a high-risk colorectal adenoma (OR, 2.08; 95% CI, 1.24–3.60; P = 0.019).

Conclusion

Marrow fat accumulation is highly associated with colorectal adenoma, particularly high-risk adenoma, in postmenopausal women.
Surrogate arterial phase imaging using a long duration (≈1.5 min) radial acquisition T1-weighted sequence: an alternative in patients unable to breath-hold
Authors: AlObaidy Mamdoh , Ramalho Miguel , Busireddy Kiran KR , Dale Brian M , Burke Lauren M , Altun Ersan , Liu Baodong , Semelka Richard C
Published: November 2015

Background

Pediatric and adult patients unable to suspend respiration generally undergo magnetic resonance (MR) examinations that lack arterial phase imaging, which is a phase that provides substantial information on disease processes. An MR strategy that provides this type of information may be of considerable value.

Purpose

To describe and assess the feasibility and enhancement quality of early-phase imaging utilizing long-duration radial 3D-GRE imaging by initiating the sequence prior to starting contrast injection.

Material and Methods

Thirty-three consecutive patients (10 men, 23 women; 50.7 ± 25.5 years) underwent free-breathing gadolinium-enhanced radial 3D-GRE, with sequence initiation 30 s prior to contrast injection. Late hepatic arterial (LHA) phase was chosen for comparison. Images were evaluated for enhancement and overall image quality. Organ enhancement was calculated. Sub-group analysis was performed.

Results

Twenty-two examinations of radial 3D-GRE sequences were acquired during the LHA phase. Organ enhancement scores were of satisfactory to good quality (range, 3.32–3.82). There was a significant trend of superior overall enhancement quality scores in pediatrics and examinations performed at 3 T (P = 0.0225 and 0.0001, respectively).

Conclusion

Arterial phase abdominal MR imaging is feasible using conventional radial 3D-GRE by adopting this simplistic proposed approach, which may allow arterial-phase imaging in patients unable to breath-hold.
Assessment of female ballet dancers’ ankles in the en pointe position using high field strength magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Russell Jeffrey A , Yoshioka Hiroshi
Published: November 2015

Background

The en pointe position of the ankle in ballet is extreme. Previously, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of ballet dancers’ ankles en pointe was confined to a low field, open MR device.

Purpose

To develop a reproducible ankle MRI protocol for ballet dancers en pointe and to assess the positions of the key structures in the dancers ankles.

Material and Methods

Six female ballet dancers participated; each was randomly assigned to stand en pointe while one of her feet and ankles was splinted with wooden rods affixed with straps or to begin with the ankle in neutral position. She lay in an MR scanner with the ankle inside a knee coil for en pointe imaging and inside an ankle/foot coil for neutral position imaging. Proton density weighted images with and without fat suppression and 3D water excitation gradient recalled echo images were obtained en pointe and in neutral position in sagittal, axial, and coronal planes. We compared the bones, cartilage, and soft tissues within and between positions.

Results

No difficulties using the protocol were encountered. En pointe the posterior articular surface of the tibial plafond was incongruent with the talar dome and rested on the posterior talus. The posterior edge of the plafond impinged Kager’s fat pad. All participants exhibited one or more small ganglion cysts about the ankle and proximal foot, as well as fluid accumulation in the flexor and fibularis tendon sheaths.

Conclusion

Our MRI protocol allows assessment of female ballet dancers’ ankles in the extreme plantar flexion position in which the dancers perform. We consistently noted incongruence of the talocrural joint and convergence of the tibia, talus, and calcaneus posteriorly. This protocol may be useful for clinicians who evaluate dancers.
sec-Butylpropylacetamide (SPD) has antimigraine properties
Authors: Kaufmann Dan , Bates Emily A , Yagen Boris , Bialer Meir , Saunders Gerald H , Wilcox Karen , White H Steve , Brennan KC
Published: November 2015

Background

Though migraine is disabling and affects 12%–15% of the population, there are few drugs that have been developed specifically for migraine prevention. Valproic acid (VPA) is a broad-spectrum antiepileptic drug (AED) that is also used for migraine prophylaxis, but its clinical use is limited by its side effect profile. sec-Butylpropylacetamide (SPD) is a novel VPA derivative, designed to be more potent and tolerable than VPA, that has shown efficacy in animal seizure and pain models.

Methods

We evaluated SPD’s antimigraine potential in the cortical spreading depression (CSD) and nitroglycerin (NTG) models of migraine. To evaluate SPD’s mechanism of action, we performed whole-cell recordings on cultured cortical neurons and neuroblastoma cells.

Results

In the CSD model, the SPD-treated group showed a significantly lower median number of CSDs compared to controls. In the NTG-induced mechanical allodynia model, SPD dose-dependently reduced mechanical sensitivity compared to controls. SPD showed both a significant potentiation of GABA-mediated currents and a smaller but significant decrease in NMDA currents in cultured cortical neurons. Kainic acid-evoked currents and voltage-dependent sodium channel currents were not changed by SPD.

Conclusions

These results demonstrate SPD’s potential as a promising novel antimigraine compound, and suggest a GABAergic mechanism of action.
Food insecurity and migraine in Canada
Authors: Dooley Joseph M , Gordon Kevin E , Kuhle Stefan
Published: November 2015

Aim

The aim of this study was to examine the prevalence of household food insecurity in individuals reporting migraine within a large population-based sample of Canadians.

Methods

The Canadian Community Health Survey (CCHS) uses a stratified cluster sample design to obtain information on Canadians ≥12 years of age. Data on household food insecurity were assessed for individuals who reported having migraine or not, providing a current point prevalence. This was assessed for stability in two CCHS datasets from four and eight years earlier. Factors associated with food insecurity among those reporting migraine were examined and a logistic regression model of food insecurity was developed. We also examined whether food insecurity was associated with other reported chronic health conditions.

Results

Of 48,645 eligible survey respondents, 4614 reported having migraine (weighted point prevalence 10.2%). Food insecurity was reported by 14.8% who reported migraine compared with 6.8% of those not reporting migraine, giving an odds ratio of 2.4 (95% confidence interval 2.0–2.8%). This risk estimate was stable over the previous eight years. The higher risk for food insecurity was not unique to migraine and was seen with some, but not all, chronic health conditions reported in the CCHS.

Conclusions

Food insecurity is more frequent among individuals reporting migraine in Canada.