bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Dynamics of Ninhydrin‐Reactive Nitrogen and pH in Gravesoil During the Extended Postmortem Interval
Authors: Anderson Brianna , Meyer Jessica , Carter David O. 
Published: July 2013

AbstractEstimating the postmortem interval of skeletal remains is difficult, as few tools exist to do so. To address this problem, we conducted a field experiment to measure the chemistry of swine (Sus scrofa domesticus Linnaeus) gravesoil after 1 year and 3 years postmortem. Carcasses were placed on the soil surface of a pasture during June in a cold (Dfa) climate. Significant (p < 0.05) increases in ninhydrin‐reactive nitrogen, pH, total nitrogen, and nitrate in gravesoil were detected 1 year postmortem. Significant differences in gravesoil chemistry were not detected 3 years postmortem. These observations coincided with gaps in plant growth 1 year postmortem and the development of lush vegetation 3 years postmortem. We conclude that these phenomena can be used to assist the decision‐making process regarding the allocation of resources during the early stages of a death investigation.
Tattoos and Human Identification: Investigation into the Use of X‐Ray and Infrared Radiation in the Visualization of Tattoos
Authors: Clarkson Helen , Birch Wendy 
Published: July 2013

AbstractAny person with a tattoo known to their family or friends could potentially be identified from the presence of such personal identifying markers. Problems in identification utilizing tattoos may arise when these markers are removed or defaced in some way. This paper uses infrared wavelengths at 760, 850, and 950 nm to improve the visualization of laser‐removed or covered up tattoos and also to establish whether the ink pigments used can be observed on radiographs from any metal that may be present. The results obtained indicate that some older inks have a high enough metallic content to allow them to be viewed on a radiograph, while infrared light can demonstrate latent ink still present in the skin after laser removal and can also be utilized to distinguish an original tattoo through a secondary “cover‐up” tattoo. Infrared photography and radiography have been shown to improve tattoo visualization in a forensic context.
Giant solitary fibrous tumor of the lung: A case report
Authors: Xiao Ping , Sun Linlin , Zhong Diansheng , Lian Linjuan , Xu Dongbo 
Published: July 2013

AbstractA solitary fibrous tumor arising from the lung parenchyma is rarely described. Here, we present the clinical, imaging, and histological features of a case of a 54‐year‐old woman with an incidental lung mass of the right lower lobe on a chest radiograph.
Predicting the outcomes of a tri‐trophic interaction between an indigenous parasitoid and an exotic herbivorous pest and its host plants
Authors: Wang X.G. , Hogg B.N. , Levy K. , Daane K. M. 
Published: July 2013

AbstractUnderstanding the novel ecological interactions that result from biological invasions is a critical issue in modern ecology and evolution as well as pest management. Introduced herbivorous insects may interact with native plants and indigenous natural enemies, creating novel tri‐trophic interactions. To help predict the potential outcomes of novel interactions, we investigated the behavioural and physiological responses of an indigenous generalist parasitoid (Habrobracon gelechiae) to an introduced generalist herbivore (the light brown apple moth, Epiphyas postvittana) and its new host plants in California. We first examined the parasitoid's host location and acceptance on a range of nine common host plants of the moth representing distinctly different geographic origins and morphologies (to examine the effect of a known toxic plant on the parasitoid's performance, an additional toxic plant species was also tested that the moth consumes in the laboratory but does not naturally attack). The parasitoid was able to locate the host larvae on all plants equally well, although clutch size was affected by host plant. We then determined fitness of the moth and the parasitoid on four representative plants. The moth larvae suffered higher mortality and a slower developmental rate on the known toxic plant than on the other three plants, but the parasitoid's fitness correlates did not differ between the host food plants. These results show a high level of plasticity in the indigenous generalist parasitoid in its ability to exploit the exotic host on a wide range of host plants, generating an invasion‐driven novel tri‐trophic interaction.
Heat shock factor 1 mediates the longevity conferred by inhibition of TOR and insulin/IGF‐1 signaling pathways in C. elegans
Authors: Seo Keunhee , Choi Eunseok , Lee Dongyeop , Jeong Dae‐Eun , Jang Sung Key , Lee Seung‐Jae 
Published: July 2013

SummaryTarget of rapamycin (TOR) signaling is an evolutionarily well‐conserved pathway that regulates various physiologic processes, including aging and metabolism. One of the key downstream components of TOR signaling is ribosomal protein S6 kinase (S6K) whose inhibition extends the lifespan of yeast, Caenorhabditis elegans, Drosophila, and mice. Here, we demonstrate that the activation of heat shock factor 1 (HSF‐1), a crucial longevity transcription factor known to act downstream of the insulin/IGF‐1 signaling (IIS) pathway, mediates the prolonged lifespan conferred by mutations in C. elegans S6K (rsks‐1). We found that hsf‐1 is required for the longevity caused by down‐regulation of components in TOR signaling pathways, including TOR and S6K. The induction of a small heat‐shock protein hsp‐16, a transcriptional target of HSF‐1, mediates the long lifespan of rsks‐1 mutants. Moreover, we show that synergistic activation of HSF‐1 is required for the further enhanced longevity caused by simultaneous down‐regulation of TOR and IIS pathways. Our findings suggest that HSF‐1 acts as an essential longevity factor that intersects both IIS and TOR signaling pathways.
A dual role of the Wnt signaling pathway during aging in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Lezzerini Marco , Budovskaya Yelena 
Published: July 2013

SummaryWnt signaling is a major and highly conserved developmental pathway that guides many important events during embryonic and larval development. In adulthood, misregulation of Wnt signaling has been implicated in tumorigenesis and various age‐related diseases. These effects occur through highly complicated cell‐to‐cell interactions mediated by multiple Wnt‐secreted proteins. While they share a high degree of sequence similarity, their function is highly diversified. Although the role of Wnt ligands during development is well studied, very little is known about the possible actions of Wnt signaling in natural aging. In this study, Caenorhabditis elegans serves, for the first time, as a model system to determine the role of Wnt ligands in aging. Caenorhabditis elegans has five Wnt proteins, mom‐2, egl‐20, lin‐44, cwn‐1, and cwn‐2. We show that all five Wnt ligands are expressed and active past the development stages. The ligand mom‐2/Wnt plays a major detrimental role in longevity, whereas the function of lin‐44/Wnt is beneficial for long life. Interestingly, no evidence was found for Wnt signaling being involved in cellular or oxidative stress responses during aging. Our results suggest that Wnt signaling regulates aging‐intrinsic genetic pathways, opening a new research direction on the role of Wnt signaling in aging and age‐related diseases.
Clinical results of 40 years of paediatric keratoplasty in a single university eye clinic
Authors: Hovlykke Maria , Hjortdal Jesper , Ehlers Niels , Nielsen Kim 
Published: July 2013

Abstract.Purpose:  To evaluate indications for paediatric keratoplasty in recipients aged ≤16 years and assess long‐term clinical outcome.Method:  Recipients were identified from records of the Danish Cornea Bank. Data were collected from patient journals, clinical follow‐up examinations and questionnaires and stratified into pre‐, peri‐ and postoperative variables. Diagnoses were classified into acquired traumatic, acquired nontraumatic and congenital groups. Recipients were divided into groups of <8 and ≥8 years. Data were analyzed using relative percentages and Kaplan–Meier survival plots.Results:  Thirty‐three out of sixty identified recipients (73 keratoplasties in 63 eyes) were invited. Twenty‐four accepted, seven still attended follow‐up in our clinic. Follow‐up data reached 95% of the eligible recipients (median follow‐up 11 years). Twenty‐three per cent were <8 years and 77%≤8 years. Diagnoses were mainly acquired nontraumatic (69%), acquired traumatic (12%) and congenital (7%). Indications were primarily optical (52%) or tectonic (41%). Graft survival was best in the acquired nontraumatic group (except regrafts) (median survival 15–20 years) and poorest in the regraft subgroup as well as the acquired traumatic and congenital groups (median survival 1–2 years). Graft failure was higher in the youngest with predisposing risk factors and in combined procedures. In terms of indications, visual improvement and eye preservation was achieved in 70%.Conclusion:  Paediatric keratoplasty was successful regarding indication. Graft survival was best in the acquired nontraumatic group and poorest in the congenital group. Vascularization and/or combined risk factors, additional surgeries and young recipient age influenced negatively on graft survival.
Candida albicans colonization on an intragastric balloon
Authors: Kotzampassi Katerina , Vasilaki Olga , Stefanidou Christina , Grosomanidis Vasilis 
Published: July 2013

AbstractHere we present the case of Candida albicans colonization on an intragastric balloon placed for weight loss. A 52‐year‐old obese woman achieved a BMI reduction of 10.9 kg/m2 within 7 months as a result of a BioEnterics Intragastric Balloon and a well‐balanced, low‐calorie diet. During endoscopy for balloon removal, the balloon, which was well impacted in the gastric fundus, was found to be lime green in color with clusters of cone‐shaped cultures on its surface. Microbiology assessment revealed the presence of Candida albicans, although the patient was totally asymptomatic.
Laparoscopic correction of right transverse colostomy prolapse
Authors: Gundogdu Gokhan , Topuz Ufuk , Umutoglu Tarik 
Published: July 2013

AbstractColostomy prolapse is a frequently seen complication of transverse colostomy. In one child with recurrent stoma prolapse, we performed a loop‐to‐loop fixation and peritoneal tethering laparoscopically. No prolapse had recurred at follow‐up. Laparoscopic repair of transverse colostomy prolapse seems to be a less invasive method than other techniques.
Sigmoid volvulus after laparoscopic surgery for sigmoid colon cancer
Authors: Sadatomo Ai , Miyakura Yasuyuki , Zuiki Toru , Koinuma Koji , Horie Hisanaga , Lefor Alan T , Yasuda Yoshikazu 
Published: July 2013

AbstractWe report the first case of sigmoid volvulus after laparoscopic surgery for sigmoid colon cancer. The patient is a 75‐year‐old man who presented with the sudden onset of severe abdominal pain. He had undergone laparoscopic sigmoidectomy for cancer 2 years before presentation. CT scan showed a distended sigmoid colon with a mesenteric twist, or “whirl sign.” Colonoscopy showed a mucosal spiral and luminal stenosis with dilated sigmoid colon distally and ischemic mucosa. The diagnosis of ischemic colonic necrosis due to sigmoid volvulus was established. Resection of the necrotic sigmoid colon was performed and a descending colon stoma was created. A long remnant sigmoid colon and chronic constipation may contribute to the development of sigmoid volvulus after laparoscopic sigmoidectomy. Prompt diagnosis is essential for adequate treatment, and colonoscopy aids in the diagnosis of ischemic changes in patients without definitive findings of a gangrenous colon.
Laparoscopic mesh repair of parahiatal hernia: A case report
Authors: Lew Pei Shi , Wong Andrew Siang Yih 
Published: July 2013

AbstractWe report a case of a primary parahiatal hernia that was repaired laparoscopically with a composite mesh. A 51‐year‐old woman presented with vomiting and epigastric pain. CT scan showed a giant paraesophageal hernia with intrathoracic gastric volvulus. Intraoperatively, a diaphragmatic muscular defect was found lateral to an attenuated left crus of the diaphragm, distinct from the normal esophageal hiatus. The defect ring was fibrotic, making a tension‐free primary repair difficult. A laparoscopic mesh repair was performed with a composite mesh, which was covered with the hernia sac to prevent potential erosion into the esophagus or stomach. Recovery was uneventful and the patient was discharged on the 5 days postoperatively. She remained asymptomatic at subsequent follow‐up. Laparoscopic repair of parahiatal hernia can be safely performed. In circumstances where a large or fibrotic defect prevents a tension‐free primary repair, the use of a composite mesh can provide effective repair of the hernia.
Patients and health care professionals: Partners in health care in Croatia?
Authors: Milosevic Milan , Brborovic Hana , Mustajbegovic Jadranka , Montgomery Anthony 
Published: July 2013

ObjectivesTo explore quality in hospitals from the patients’ and health care professionals’ perspective in line with Act on the Protection of Patient Rights.DesignA qualitative study using a focus group design and semi‐structured interviews.MethodsThree focus groups among health care professionals were conducted with 51 participants: 24 nurses and medical technicians, 15 physicians, 12 residents, followed by additional interviews (20 nurses and medical technicians, 10 physicians, and 2 residents). Twenty patients were interviewed at the time of their discharge from the hospital. Collected data were analysed using thematic analysis.ResultsPatients identified waiting for medical treatments/procedures as the most concerning factor, followed by changes in administration procedures and admission in hospitals. From the physicians’ and nurses’ perspective, the main topics were inadequate resources to work with and inadequate working environment. Residents emphasized administration and lack of adequate equipment in contrast to other health care professionals. Both patients and health care professionals identified similar organizational and administrative issues impacting on service delivery.ConclusionsHealth care providers and patients equally recognize the factors that impact upon quality of care. This problem is beyond the health care professionals’ possibility to solve, which is the main source of stress and burnout that influence the quality of care. These factors cannot be overcome, by either health care professionals or patient organizations working alone. Greater partnership between health providers and patient associations is needed.Statement of contributionWhat is already known on this subject?
Healthcare providers and patients have the same goal: good quality of care and safety.
Croatia has undergone significant socio‐economic and political changes, which have affected the organization of the health care system.
The patient experience is positively associated with clinical effectiveness and patient safety.
What does this study add?
From the perspective of patients and health professionals the main concern regarding quality of care is the organization of work in hospitals.
Croatian patients and health professionals show considerable agreement with regard to the administrative problems in hospitals.
Solutions that include only efforts on the part of the health care worker will fail.
A Novel Dental Implant Guided Surgery Based on Integration of Surgical Template and Augmented Reality
Authors: Lin Yen‐Kun , Yau Hong‐Tzong , Wang I‐Chung , Zheng Cheng , Chung Kwok‐Hung 
Published: July 2013

AbstractBackgroundStereoscopic visualization concept combined with head‐mounted displays may increase the accuracy of computer‐aided implant surgery.PurposeThe aim of this study was to develop an augmented reality‐based dental implant placement system and evaluate the accuracy of the virtually planned versus the actual prepared implant site created in vitro.Materials and MethodsFour fully edentulous mandibular and four partially edentulous maxillary duplicated casts were used. Six implants were planned in the mandibular and four in the maxillary casts. A total of 40 osteotomy sites were prepared in the casts using stereolithographic template integrated with augmented reality‐based surgical simulation. During the surgery, the dentist could be guided accurately through a head‐mounted display by superimposing the virtual auxiliary line and the drill stop. The deviation between planned and prepared positions of the implants was measured via postoperative computer tomography generated scan images.ResultsMean and standard deviation of the discrepancy between planned and prepared sites at the entry point, apex, angle, depth, and lateral locations were 0.50 ± 0.33 mm, 0.96 ± 0.36 mm, 2.70 ± 1.55°, 0.33 ± 0.27 mm, and 0.86 ± 0.34 mm, respectively, for the fully edentulous mandible, and 0.46 ± 0.20 mm, 1.23 ± 0.42 mm, 3.33 ± 1.42°, 0.48 ± 0.37 mm, and 1.1 ± 0.39 mm, respectively, for the partially edentulous maxilla. There was a statistically significant difference in the apical deviation between maxilla and mandible in this surgical simulation (p < .05).ConclusionsDeviation of implant placement from planned position was significantly reduced by integrating surgical template and augmented reality technology.
Predicting species distribution at range margins: testing the effects of study area extent, resolution and threshold selection in the Sahara–Sahel transition zone
Authors: Vale Cândida G. , Tarroso Pedro , Brito José C. 
Published: July 2013

AbstractAimCompare the performance of continental and regional models in predicting species distributions at range margins. Selection of study area extent, resolution and threshold affects ecological model predictions. At range margins of species distribution, local populations may be restricted to suboptimal environments distinct from the species' global range, which may be missed by continental models.LocationAfrica and West Africa.MethodsWe analysed differences in predicted distributions at range margins of three widespread African species that in West Africa occur in peripheral populations restricted to particular habitats. We made comparisons between models built with data from the complete and restricted range of species' distributions (Africa and West Africa, respectively), with coarse and fine resolutions (10 × 10 km and 1 × 1 km, respectively), and classified with three thresholds of species presence (minimum training presence, 10th percentile training presence and maximum training sensitivity plus specificity thresholds). We predicted the species' distributions and quantified environmental variable importance and profile using maximum entropy and estimated niche breadth parameters with ecological niche factor analysis.ResultsWe found differences between model types in niche breadth estimates and also in response curves of the most important variables, suggesting that fine resolution models are more accurate at selecting marginal habitats in West Africa than in Africa. The predictions of species distributions differed with model extent, resolution and threshold analysed. Models built with the complete species environmental range and with coarse resolution tended to overestimate species distributions at the edge, but accuracy increased when more restrictive thresholds were used. In West Africa, independently of the resolution, the threshold value was less important for maximizing agreement between predicted probabilities and observed distribution.Main conclusionsAt range margins of species distributions, regional models with precise data and conservative thresholds should be preferred over continental models with coarser resolution to identify suitable areas for peripheral populations.
Cerebellar networks with basal ganglia: feasibility for tracking cerebello‐pallidal and subthalamo‐cerebellar projections in the human brain
Authors: Pelzer Esther Annegret , Hintzen Andreas , Goldau Mathias , von Cramon Detlev Yves , Timmermann Lars , Tittgemeyer Marc 
Published: July 2013

AbstractNeuroanatomical studies using transneuronal virus tracers in macaque monkeys recently demonstrated that substantial interactions exist between basal ganglia and the cerebellum. To what extent these interactions are present in the human brain remains unclear; however, these connections are thought to provide an important framework for understanding cerebellar contributions to the manifestation of basal ganglia disorders, especially with respect to tremor genesis in movement disorders such as Parkinson's disease. Here, we tested the feasibility of assessing these connections in vivo and non‐invasively in the human brain with diffusion magnetic resonance imaging and tractography. After developing a standardized protocol for manual segmentation of basal ganglia and cerebellar structures, masks for diffusion tractography were defined based on structural magnetic resonance images. We tested intra‐ and inter‐observer stability and carried out tractography for dentato‐pallidal and subthalamo‐cerebellar projections. After robustly achieving connection probabilities per tract, the connectivity values and connectional fingerprints were calculated in a group of healthy volunteers. Probabilistic diffusion tractography was applicable to probe the inter‐connection of the cerebellum and basal ganglia. Our data confirmed that dentato‐thalamo‐striato‐pallidal and subthalamo‐cerebellar connections also exist in the human brain at a level similar to those that were recently suggested by transneuronal tracing studies in non‐human primates. Standardized segmentation protocols made these findings reproducible with high stability. We have demonstrated that diffusion tractography in humans in vivo is capable of revealing the structural bases of cerebellar networks with the basal ganglia. These findings support the role of the cerebellum as a satellite system of established cortico‐basal ganglia networks in humans.