Scipedia: Documents published in 2016

MicroRNAs as biomarkers for dental diseases

Scipedia content — Thu, 20 Oct 2016 17:01:39 +0200

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are short, noncoding RNAs that act as key regulators of diverse biological processes by mediating translational repression or mRNA degradation of target genes. Recent studies discovered miRNAs in saliva, and these miRNAs are promising candidates for use as biomarkers of dental diseases. In this review, the results of miRNA studies in the dental field are presented, and a brief overview of the current progress, limitations, and perspectives regarding miRNA biomarkers for dental diseases is given.

Maintenance of Genome Stability

Scipedia content — Thu, 20 Oct 2016 16:59:23 +0200

DNA End Resection: Facts and Mechanisms

Scipedia content — Thu, 20 Oct 2016 16:59:21 +0200

DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs), which arise following exposure to a number of endogenous and exogenous agents, can be repaired by either the homologous recombination (HR) or non-homologous end-joining (NHEJ) pathways in eukaryotic cells. A vital step in HR repair is DNA end resection, which generates a long 3′ single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) tail that can invade the homologous DNA strand. The generation of 3′ ssDNA is not only essential for HR repair, but also promotes activation of the ataxia telangiectasia and Rad3-related protein (ATR). Multiple factors, including the MRN/X complex, C-terminal-binding protein interacting protein (CtIP)/Sae2, exonuclease 1 (EXO1), Bloom syndrome protein (BLM)/Sgs1, DNA2 nuclease/helicase, and several chromatin remodelers, cooperate to complete the process of end resection. Here we review the basic machinery involved in DNA end resection in eukaryotic cells.

Functions of PARylation in DNA Damage Repair Pathways

Scipedia content — Thu, 20 Oct 2016 16:59:18 +0200

Protein poly ADP-ribosylation (PARylation) is a widespread post-translational modification at DNA lesions, which is catalyzed by poly(ADP-ribose) polymerases (PARPs). This modification regulates a number of biological processes including chromatin reorganization, DNA damage response (DDR), transcriptional regulation, apoptosis, and mitosis. PARP1, functioning as a DNA damage sensor, can be activated by DNA lesions, forming PAR chains that serve as a docking platform for DNA repair factors with high biochemical complexity. Here, we highlight molecular insights into PARylation recognition, the expanding role of PARylation in DDR pathways, and the functional interaction between PARylation and ubiquitination, which will offer us a better understanding of the biological roles of this unique post-translational modification.

UFMylation: A Unique & Fashionable Modification for Life

Scipedia content — Thu, 20 Oct 2016 16:59:15 +0200

Ubiquitin-fold modifier 1 (UFM1) is one of the newly-identified ubiquitin-like proteins. Similar to ubiquitin, UFM1 is conjugated to its target proteins by a three-step enzymatic reaction. The UFM1-activating enzyme, ubiquitin-like modifier-activating enzyme 5 (UBA5), serves as the E1 to activate UFM1; UFM1-conjugating enzyme 1 (UFC1) acts as the E2 to transfer the activated UFM1 to the active site of the E2; and the UFM1-specific ligase 1 (UFL1) acts as the E3 to recognize its substrate, transfer, and ligate the UFM1 from E2 to the substrate. This process is called ufmylation. UFM1 chains can be cleaved from its target proteins by UFM1-specific proteases (UfSPs), suggesting that the ufmylation modification is reversible. UFM1 cascade is conserved among nearly all of the eukaryotic organisms, but not in yeast, and associated with several cellular activities including the endoplasmic reticulum stress response and hematopoiesis. Furthermore, the UFM1 cascade is closely related to a series of human diseases. In this review, we summarize the molecular details of this reversible modification process, the recent progress of its functional studies, as well as its implication in tumorigenesis and potential therapeutic targets for cancer.

New Edges of RNA Adenosine Methylation Modifications

Scipedia content — Thu, 20 Oct 2016 16:59:11 +0200

Endogenous DNA Damage and Repair Enzymes : —A short summary of the scientific achievements of Tomas Lindahl, Nobel Laureate in Chemistry 2015

Scipedia content — Thu, 20 Oct 2016 16:59:08 +0200

Tomas Lindahl completed his medical studies at Karolinska Institute in 1970. Yet, his work has always been dedicated to unraveling fundamental mechanisms of DNA decay and DNA repair. His research is characterized with groundbreaking discoveries on the instability of our genome, the identification of novel DNA repair activities, the characterization of DNA repair pathways, and the association to diseases, throughout his 40 years of scientific career.

Topoisomerase I in Human Disease Pathogenesis and Treatments

Scipedia content — Thu, 20 Oct 2016 16:59:05 +0200

Mammalian topoisomerase 1 (TOP1) is an essential enzyme for normal development. TOP1 relaxes supercoiled DNA to remove helical constraints that can otherwise hinder DNA replication and transcription and thus block cell growth. Unfortunately, this exact activity can covalently trap TOP1 on the DNA that could lead to cell death or mutagenesis, a precursor for tumorigenesis. It is therefore important for cells to find a proper balance between the utilization of the TOP1 catalytic activity to maintain DNA topology and the risk of accumulating the toxic DNA damages due to TOP1 trapping that prevents normal cell growth. In an apparent contradiction to the negative attribute of the TOP1 activity to genome stability, the detrimental effect of the TOP1-induced DNA lesions on cell survival has made this enzyme a prime target for cancer therapies to kill fast-growing cancer cells. In addition, cumulative evidence supports a direct role of TOP1 in promoting transcriptional progression independent of its topoisomerase activity. The involvement of TOP1 in transcriptional regulation has recently become a focus in developing potential new treatments for a subtype of autism spectrum disorders. Clearly, the impact of TOP1 on human health is multifold. In this review, we will summarize our current understandings on how TOP1 contributes to human diseases and how its activity is targeted for disease treatments.

Immunomodulation by classical conditioning in NZB/W (F1) mice: Lifespan and diurnal variation

Scipedia content — Thu, 20 Oct 2016 16:55:24 +0200

Systemic Lupus Eritematosus (SLE) is a systemic inflammatory disease often treated with the agent cyclophosphamide (CY), known by provoking important adverse reactions to the organism. Ader and Cohen have demonstrated an alternative way of administrating this agent based on pavlovian conditioning, in order to reduce the aggression caused by CY. Considering the influence of the temporal organization on learning and memory processes, the purpose of this study was to understand the temporal aspects involved in the conditioned immunomodulation. In a search for circadian modulation, we selected NZB/W (F1) female mice, a strain that spontaneously develop SLE. Divided into two major groups, the animals were submitted, in different phases of day, to a classical conditioning immunomodulation protocol, consisting in weekly parings of saccharin solution and CY injections. The success of the paradigm was evaluated by comparing lifespan among the groups. Simultaneously, it was monitored the water intake behavior, in order to correlate the stability of two rhythmic parameters, amplitude and spectral power density of the 24-h rhythm, with the progression of SLE. Our results indicate that mice could benefit from the conditioning task performed either in the light phase or in the dark phase of the LD cycle, as expressed by an increased lifespan. Concerning the rhythmic parameters, there was evidence of association between the rhythmic stability and the evolution of SLE, demonstrated by the maintenance of healthy levels of amplitude and spectral potency of the 24-h rhythm in animals exposed to the conditioning paradigm.

Sleep in space as a new medical frontier: the challenge of preserving normal sleep in the abnormal environment of space missions

Scipedia content — Thu, 20 Oct 2016 16:55:22 +0200

Space agencies such as the National Aeronautics and Space Administration of the United States, the Russian Federal Space Agency, the European Space Agency, the China National Space Administration, the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, and Indian Space Research Organization, although differing in their local political agendas, have a common interest in promoting all applied sciences that may facilitate man’s adaptation to life beyond the earth. One of man’s most important adaptations has been the evolutionary development of sleep cycles in response to the 24 hour rotation of the earth. Less well understood has been man’s biological response to gravity. Before humans ventured into space, many questioned whether sleep was possible at all in microgravity environments. It is now known that, in fact, space travelers can sleep once they leave the pull of the earth’s gravity, but that the sleep they do get is not completely refreshing and that the associated sleep disturbances can be elaborate and variable. According to astronauts’ subjective reports, the duration of sleep is shorter than that on earth and there is an increased incidence of disturbed sleep. Objective sleep recordings carried out during various missions including the Skylab missions, space shuttle missions, and Mir missions all support the conclusion that, compared to sleep on earth, the duration in human sleep in space is shorter, averaging about six hours. In the new frontier of space exploration, one of the great practical problems to be solved relates to how man can preserve “normal” sleep in a very abnormal environment. The challenge of managing fatigue and sleep loss during space mission has critical importance for the mental efficiency and safety of the crew and ultimately for the success of the mission itself. Numerous "earthly" examples now show that crew fatigue on ships, trucks, and long-haul jetliners can lead to inadequate performance and sometimes fatal consequences, a reality which has caused many space agencies to take the issue of sleep seriously.

Caffeine intake has no effect on sleep quality in community dwellers living in a rural Ecuadorian village (The Atahualpa Project)

Scipedia content — Thu, 20 Oct 2016 16:55:19 +0200

More information is needed to better understand the effect of caffeine on sleep quality at the community level. In a population-based, cross-sectional study design, we aimed to assess the effect of caffeine intake on sleep quality by the use of a multivariate exposure-effect model, adjusted for relevant confounders. All Atahualpa residents aged ≥40 years were identified during a door-to-door survey and interviewed with the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and a structured instrument designed to estimate the daily amount of caffeine intake. An exposure-effect model was built using augmented inverse probability weighting taking into account variables that were associated with exposure (using a probit model) and variables that were associated with outcome (in a linear model). Out of 779 eligible individuals, 716 (92%) were included. Consumption of 200 mg/day in 97 (13%). Mean score in the PSQI was 4.5±2.2 points, with 203 (28%) individuals classified as poor sleepers (≥6 points). The exposure-effect model, adjusted for variables associated with the exposure (symptoms of depression, total cholesterol blood levels and smoking) and the outcome (age, symptoms of depression, physical activity and fasting glucose levels), revealed no effect of caffeine intake in sleep quality (average exposure effect: 0.027, 95% C.I.: −0.284 to 0.338, p=0.866). This population-based study shows that caffeine intake has no effect on sleep quality in community-dwelling adults living in a rural village of Ecuador.

Sleep disturbances and sexual function among men aged 45–75 years in an urban area of Iran

Scipedia content — Thu, 20 Oct 2016 16:55:16 +0200

Aging in men is associated with various physical and mental symptoms, including sleep problems and sexual dysfunction. The aim of this study was to determine the status of sleep disorders and sexual dysfunction in men aged 45–75 years in Ilam, Iran. In this population-based cross-sectional study, 390 men aged 45–75 years were selected by cluster randomization in Ilam–Iran. Data were collected using 0–100 brief sexual function inventory and the sleep disorder questionnaires. Totally, 34.6% of men complained about sleep disorders: 17.4% about falling asleep, 12.8% about frequent nocturnal awakenings, 12.8% about waking up in the early hours in the morning and problem in falling asleep again, and 24.9% about fatigue and tiredness despite getting enough sleep. There was a significant relationship between all aspects of sexual function and the common problems related to sleep (p

Franz Kafka: An emblematic case of co-occurrence of sleep and psychiatryc disorders

Scipedia content — Thu, 20 Oct 2016 16:55:13 +0200

Corrigendum to "Relationship between perceived sleep and polysomnography in older adult patients" [Sleep Sci. 8 (2015) 75–81]

Scipedia content — Thu, 20 Oct 2016 16:55:10 +0200

Artemisinin protects human retinal pigment epithelial cells from hydrogen peroxide-induced oxidative damage through activation of ERK/CREB signaling

Scipedia content — Thu, 20 Oct 2016 16:52:30 +0200

The pathological increase in the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE), is implicated in the development of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The discovery of drug candidates to effectively protect RPE cells from oxidative damage is required to resolve the pathological aspects and modify the process of AMD. In this study, a FDA-approved anti-malaria drug, Artemisinin was found to suppress hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-induced cell death in human RPE cell-D407 cells. Further study showed that Artemisinin significantly suppressed H2O2− induced D407 cell death by restoring abnormal changes in nuclear morphology, intracellular ROS, mitochondrial membrane potential and apoptotic biomarkers. Western blotting analysis showed that Artemisinin was able to activate extracellular regulated ERK/CREB survival signaling. Furthermore, Artemisinin failed to suppress H2O2-induced cytotoxicity and the increase of caspase 3/7 activity in the presence of the ERK inhibitor PD98059. Taken together, these results suggest that Artemisinin is a potential protectant with the pro-survival effects against H2O2 insult through activation of the ERK/CREB pathway.

Direct measurement of actual levels of nitric oxide (NO) in cell culture conditions using soluble NO donors

Scipedia content — Thu, 20 Oct 2016 16:52:21 +0200

Applying soluble nitric oxide (NO) donors is the most widely used method to expose cells of interest to exogenous NO. Because of the complex equilibria that exist between components in culture media, the donor compound and NO itself, it is very challenging to predict the dose and duration of NO cells actually experience. To determine the actual level of NO experienced by cells exposed to soluble NO donors, we developed the CellNO Trap, a device that allows continuous, real-time monitoring of the level of NO adherent cells produce and/or experience in culture without the need to alter cell culturing procedures. Herein, we directly measured the level of NO that cells grown in the CellNO Trap experienced when soluble NO donors were added to solutions in culture wells and we characterized environmental conditions that effected the level of NO in in vitro culture conditions. Specifically, the dose and duration of NO generated by the soluble donors S-nitroso-N-acetylpenicillamine (SNAP), S-nitrosoglutathione (GSNO), S-nitrosocysteine (CysNO) and the diazeniumdiolate diethyltriamine (DETA/NO) were investigated in both phosphate buffered saline (PBS) and cell culture media. Other factors that were studied that potentially affect the ultimate NO level achieved with these donors included pH, presence of transition metals (ion species), redox level, presence of free thiol and relative volume of media. Then murine smooth muscle cell (MOVAS) with different NO donors but with the same effective concentration of available NO were examined and it was demonstrated that the cell proliferation ratio observed does not correlate with the half-lives of NO donors characterized in PBS, but does correlate well with the real-time NO profiles measured under the actual culture conditions. This data demonstrates the dynamic characteristic of the NO and NO donor in different biological systems and clearly illustrates the importance of tracking individual NO profiles under the actual biological conditions.

Redox mechanisms in age-related lung fibrosis

Scipedia content — Thu, 20 Oct 2016 16:52:15 +0200

Redox signaling and oxidative stress are associated with tissue fibrosis and aging. Aging is recognized as a major risk factor for fibrotic diseases involving multiple organ systems, including that of the lung. A number of oxidant generating enzymes are upregulated while antioxidant defenses are deficient with aging and cellular senescence, leading to redox imbalance and oxidative stress. However, the precise mechanisms by which redox signaling and oxidative stress contribute to the pathogenesis of lung fibrosis are not well understood. Tissue repair is a highly regulated process that involves the interactions of several cell types, including epithelial cells, fibroblasts and inflammatory cells. Fibrosis may develop when these interactions are dysregulated with the acquisition of pro-fibrotic cellular phenotypes. In this review, we explore the roles of redox mechanisms that promote and perpetuate fibrosis in the context of cellular senescence and aging.

Plasma cysteine/cystine redox couple disruption in animal models of temporal lobe epilepsy

Scipedia content — Thu, 20 Oct 2016 16:52:10 +0200

Currently the field of epilepsy lacks peripheral blood-based biomarkers that could predict the onset or progression of chronic seizures following an epileptogenic injury. Thiol/disulfide ratios have been shown to provide a sensitive means of assessing the systemic redox potential in tissue and plasma. In this study, we utilized a rapid, simple and reliable method for simultaneous determination of several thiol-containing amino acids in plasma using HPLC with electrochemical detection in kainic acid (KA) and pilocarpine rat models of epilepsy. In contrast to GSH and GSSG levels, the levels of cysteine (Cys) were decreased by 42% and 62% and cystine (Cyss) were increased by 46% and 23% in the plasma of KA- and pilocarpine-injected rats, respectively after 48 h. In chronically epileptic rats, plasma cysteine was decreased by 40.4% and 37.7%, and plasma GSSG increased by 33.8% and 35.0% following KA and pilocarpine, respectively. Treatment of rats with a catalytic antioxidant, 60 min after KA or pilocarpine significant attenuated the decrease of plasma Cys/Cyss ratios at the 48 h time point in both models. These observations suggest that the decreased cysteine and ratio of Cys/Cyss in plasma could potentially serve as redox biomarkers in temporal lobe epilepsy.

Genetic analysis of some economic traits in a composite breed of domestic rabbits reared in a tropical environment

Scipedia content — Thu, 20 Oct 2016 16:47:46 +0200

Records of 224 kits produced by fifteen dams and five sires were used to estimate covariance and correlations of litter traits in composite breed rabbit using paternal and maternal half-sib method. The traits studied were total litter size at birth (TB), litter size born alive (BA), litter birth weight (LBWT), 7-day body weight (7BWT), 21 day body weight (21BWT) and weaning weight (42BWT). The analysis of variance was done in a nested design with equal number of subclass. The estimates of covariance were generally low 0.002 and 0.004,0.004 and 0.009,0.001 and 0.001 for LBWT and BA, TB and 7BWT, LBWT and 42BWT while positive and significant genetic correlations (rG) (P > 0.05) was obtained for LBWT and BA (0.94 and 0.67), BA and 42BWT (0.89 and 0.61), LBWTB and 21BWT (0.88 and 0.63) from sire and dam components respectively. Phenotypic (rP) and environmental (rE) correlations between the traits studied were mostly non-significant (P

Assessment of hybrids of drought tolerant maize (Zea mays L.) inbred lines for grain yield and other traits under stress managed conditions

Scipedia content — Thu, 20 Oct 2016 16:47:44 +0200

Introduced maize (Zea mays L.) germplasm can serve as important sources of favorable alleles for enhancing the performance of new maize varieties and hybrids under drought stress conditions. Ninety-six elite maize hybrids alongside four hybrid checks were evaluated for grain yield and other agronomic traits under managed stress conditions over two seasons at Ikenne, Nigeria. Hybrids differed significantly for grain yield and other measured traits under both drought stress and well-watered conditions. Grain yield varied from 444 to 3022 kg ha−1 under drought stress, and from 3827 to 8887 kg ha−1 under full irrigation. Drought stress reduced grain yield by 70%. Each of the top 10 yielders under drought stress produced >2500 kg ha−1 and had a yield advantage of >10% over the best check. Three hybrids namely; ADL47 × EXL15, ADL41 × EXL15 and EXL02 × ADL47, produced competitive yields under both irrigation treatments.

Genetics of seed yield and related traits in biparental crosses of okra, Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench

Scipedia content — Thu, 20 Oct 2016 16:47:42 +0200

Gene action and interaction are very important in formulating the appropriate breeding technique to produce new varieties in okra. The objective of the study was to investigate gene action controlling yield and 12 related traits in okra. Sixteen bi-parental progenies of okra were evaluated in October, 2013 and May, 2014 at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (Lat 7°29 N, Long 3°30 E), Nigeria. Seeds were sown in single-row plots laid out in randomized complete block design with three replicates. Mean squares were obtained for the thirteen characters according to North Carolina Design II. Heritable variances were partitioned into additive and dominance components. General (GCA) and specific combining abilities (SCA) of both parental and progenies respectively were estimated with a view to identifying high combiners among genotypes. Results suggested both additive and dominant gene effects for most characters with dominant gene effects for number of leaves per plant and weight of 100 seeds. The study concluded that both additive and dominant gene actions controlled the expression of characters in okra. NHGB/09/009A and FUNAAB-11-8 are high combiners for number of days to 50% flowering and number of pods/plant and they are recommended as high-yielding, early-maturing okra variety. FUNAAB-11-4 x LD 88 and UI4-30 x FUNAAB-11-8 can be further improved to develop high-yielding hybrid okra varieties due to their high SCA. Number of days to 50% flowering, plant height, number of branches per plant, pod weight and number of ridges per pod will respond to selection because of the preponderance of additive gene action.

Phenotypic and genetic categorization of qualitative traits in extensively managed local goat (Capra aegagrus) population of Niger State, Nigeria

Scipedia content — Thu, 20 Oct 2016 16:47:38 +0200

A study on the distribution and frequencies of coat colour, wattle, beard, horn, and hair type using 375 extensively managed local goats was carried out in the three administrative zones of Niger state, Nigeria. The animals were scored for coat colour pigmentation pattern, presence or absence of wattle, beard, horn, hair type and extra teat. The study showed that light brown is the predominant colour in zones A (43.24%) and zone C (47.57%). Dark brown colour was predominant in zone B (37.82%) followed by light brown (31.09%). The observed frequencies for wattle (Waw) and extra teat (Ete) were above (p

Assessment of variability of finger millet (Eleusine coracana (L) Gaertn) landraces germplasm in Northern Nigeria

Scipedia content — Thu, 20 Oct 2016 16:47:36 +0200

Germplasm identification and characterization is an important link between conservation and utilization of plant genetic resources. The present study was conducted to characterize the morphological diversity of 10 germplasm accessions of Finger millet (Eleusine coracana (L) Gaertn) collected from diverse locations spread across the geographic Northern Nigeria during the 2008, 2009 and 2010 cropping seasons. The seeds of the accessions were planted in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications in each of two locations-Keffi and Gwagwalada, during the three cropping seasons. The field studies for the three seasons in the two locations followed uniform agricultural practices. Field data was collected on morphological traits such as plant height, leaf length, leaf diameter, finger length, finger width, number of fingers and 1000 seed weight were recorded in accordance with standard finger millet descriptors. The results obtained, showed that plant height in accession Ex-Kwi was significantly different from all the other nine accessions while the highest leaf length which was recorded in Ex-Riyom was significantly different (p

Genetic variation, heritability, genetic advance and agronomic character association of yellow elite inbred lines of maize (Zea mays L.)

Scipedia content — Thu, 20 Oct 2016 16:47:32 +0200

Fifteen elite yellow maize inbred lines were evaluated in a randomized complete block design experiment with three replicates in 2014. Data were collected on days to anthesis and silking, anthesis-silking interval, plant and ear heights, number of ears per plant, leaf area, ear weight and grain yield. Mean values were used to determine characters' phenotypic and genotypic variances, phenotypic, genotypic and environmental coefficients of variation. Broad sense heritability and genetic advance percentage of mean were estimated for each trait. Significant variation existed in all the characters. The coefficients of variation were low except for ear weight and grain yield that were relatively higher. The anthesis-silking interval was highest in lines TZEI 124 and TZEI 16, but least in lines BD74-222, TZEI 11 and TZEI 13. Line BD74-222 had the height plant height and BD74-165 had the least. Line TZEI 124 produced highest maize grain yield whereas line TZEI 146 had the least. Coefficients of variation of phenotype and genotype were low for all the traits except number of ear per plant, ear and grain yield. The characters were less influenced by the environment thus the traits can be used for selection. Heritability was greater than 80% for all characters studied whereas expected genetic advance ranged from low (8.91) in days to silking to high (72.03) in number of ear per plant. Days to anthesis and silking, plant height and number of leaf per plant were positively correlated. Grain yield was positively correlated with ASI, plant and ear heights, number of leaf per plant and leaf area. High heritability and high genetic advance for ASI indicated the presence of additive genes in the trait and suggested reliable maize improvement through selection of the traits. In this study moderate genetic advance was associated with high heritability.

Atypical presentation of mucopolysaccharidosis type IVA

Scipedia content — Thu, 20 Oct 2016 16:44:41 +0200

A 14 year old patient with short stature, type I diabetes, and cataracts was referred for evaluation of avascular necrosis of the femoral head. Radiography was suggestive of spondyloepiphyseal dysplasia with decreased bone mineral density for age. Targeted molecular and biochemical testing were normal in this patient. Whole exome sequencing was performed and showed compound heterozygosity for previously reported pathogenic GALNS variants which were diagnostic of mucopolysaccharidosis, type IVA (Morquio A). While this case describes neither a novel condition nor a new mutation, it does illustrate three important points in the diagnosis of patients with atypical forms of MPS IVA. First, that in many instances urine glycosaminoglycan analysis is not sufficient to rule out MPS IVA as a potential diagnosis. Patients in whom biochemical screening is advised should have measurement of leukocyte enzymatic activity. Second, that in patients with radiographic evidence of spondyloepiphyseal dysplasia with additional features or with normal targeted testing, MPS IVA should remain in the differential diagnosis. Third, that whole exome sequencing represents a viable diagnostic platform for evaluation of patients with unknown skeletal or metabolic disease.

Successful pregnancy and delivery in a woman with propionic acidemia from the Amish community

Scipedia content — Thu, 20 Oct 2016 16:44:38 +0200

Propionic acidemia (PA) is an inborn error of protein metabolism with a variable clinical presentation ranging from neonatal encephalopathy to seemingly asymptomatic individuals who present with cardiomyopathy or sudden death. PA is recognized in the Amish population, often with an early asymptomatic course and eventual cardiac complications. Thus, Amish women with PA may reach reproductive age without clinical sequelae, but are at increased risk for metabolic decompensation during pregnancy, delivery and postpartum period. We describe the care of an Amish woman with PA during her first pregnancy and delivery.

Autosomal dominant Carvajal plus syndrome due to the novel desmoplakin mutation c.1678A > T (p.Ile560Phe)

Scipedia content — Thu, 20 Oct 2016 16:44:35 +0200

Carvajal syndrome is an autosomal dominant or autosomal recessive disorder, manifesting with dilated cardiomyopathy, woolly hair, and palmoplantar keratoma. Additional manifestations can be occasionally found. Carvajal syndrome may be due to mutations in the desmocollin-2, desmoplakin, or plakophilin-2 gene. We report a family with Carvajal syndrome which additionally presented with hypoacusis, noncompaction, recurrent pharyngeal infections, oligodontia, and recurrent diarrhoea. Father and brother were also affected and had died suddenly, the father despite implantation of a cardioverter defibrillator (ICD). Genetic studies revealed the novel pathogenic mutation c.1678A > T in the desmoplakin gene resulting in the amino acid change Ile to Phe at position 560 in the index case and her brother. The index case underwent ICD implantation recently. Phenotypic manifestations of Carvajal syndrome are even broader than so far anticipated, the number of mutations in the desmoplakin gene responsible for Carvajal syndrome is still increasing, and these patients require implantation of an ICD as soon as their diagnosis is established.

Assessment of the phenotype genotype variability and correlation in m.3243A > G mutation carriers requires prospective studies

Scipedia content — Thu, 20 Oct 2016 16:44:32 +0200

Response to: Letter to the Editor Regarding: The Expanding Phenotype of MELAS Caused by the m.3291 T > C tRNA Mutation E Kelland, C. A. Rupar, Asuri N. Prasad, K. Y. Tay, A. Downie and C. Prasad (1) by Josef Finsterer, MD, PhD [1], Sinda Zarrouk-Mahjoub, PhD [2] [1] Krankenanstalt Rudolfstiftung, Vienna [2] Genomics Platform, Pasteur Institute of Tunis, Tunisia

Scipedia content — Thu, 20 Oct 2016 16:44:29 +0200

Hypothyroidism in late-onset Pompe disease

Scipedia content — Thu, 20 Oct 2016 16:44:25 +0200

In Pompe disease, a deficiency of acid α-glucosidase enzyme activity leads to pathologic accumulation of glycogen in tissues. Phenotype heterogeneity in Pompe includes an infantile form and late-onset forms (juvenile- and adult-onset forms). Symptoms common to all phenotypes include progressive muscle weakness and worsening respiratory function. Patients with late-onset forms of Pompe disease commonly complain of chronic fatigue and generalized muscle weakness prior to being diagnosed with Pompe disease, and this may lead to consideration of hypothyroidism in the differential diagnosis. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of hypothyroidism in the adult-onset form of Pompe disease. Electronic chart review was performed at the Advanced Therapies Clinic at the University of Minnesota Medical Center (UMMC) to identify patients with late-onset Pompe disease. The identified charts were reviewed for a co-diagnosis of hypothyroidism. A query was made to the clinical data repository at UMMC searching diagnosis ICD9 code 244.9 (hypothyroidism not otherwise specified) and/or presence of levothyroxine from 2011 to 2014 in patients 18 years of age and older. The clinical data repository found a prevalence of hypothyroidism of 3.15% (56,072 of 1,782,720 patients) in the adult patient population at UMMC. Ten adult patients with Pompe disease were identified, five with the diagnosis of hypothyroidism (50%, 95% CI: 23.7, 76.3, p

Food service research and development

Scipedia content — Thu, 20 Oct 2016 16:40:28 +0200

Corrigendum to “Historical and biological aspects of bibimbap, a Korean ethnic food” [J Ethn Foods 2 (2015) 74–83]

Scipedia content — Thu, 20 Oct 2016 16:40:22 +0200

Hypocholesterolemic effects of diets containing different levels of kishk as a dried fermented milk–whole wheat mixture in experimental rats

Scipedia content — Thu, 20 Oct 2016 16:40:19 +0200

Kishk is a popular traditional functional food in Egypt. This study was performed to investigate the effects of different levels of kishk as a dried fermented milk/whole wheat mixture on growth performance, relative weight of organs, lipid profile, and some biochemical parameters in rats fed a cholesterol-rich diet. Forty male rats were assigned to five groups, each consisting of eight rats. The first one presents the negative control group that received the basal diet, while the second group that serves as the positive (+) control group received a high-cholesterol diet (HCD). The last three groups received HCD supplemented with 10%, 20%, and 30% of kishk. Rats fed diets containing various levels of kishk for 8 weeks had significantly (p

Ethnic and traditional Iranian rice-based foods

Scipedia content — Thu, 20 Oct 2016 16:40:14 +0200

Iranian national cuisine is very diverse and nutritious. A rice-based diet is commonly used by all people throughout the country. The current work aimed at documenting the ethnic and traditional rice-based foods prepared and consumed in Iran. The data were collected by individually interviewing people from 15 cities in five districts of Iran (north, south, west, east, and central parts), as well as searching literature and scientific sources. A list of 100 ethnic and traditional rice-based foods of Iranian cuisine is presented in three categories: main meals, soups/pottages, and sweets/desserts. The main ingredient of traditional and ethnic Iranian foods is rice. Iranian people develop many ways to create and consume rice-based foods.

Historical and contemporary perspectives of the Nyonya food culture in Malaysia

Scipedia content — Thu, 20 Oct 2016 16:40:09 +0200

Nyonya cuisine echoes the cultural identity of the Peranakans, who are both Chinese and localized. Despite the fact that the food is much localized, its symbolism remains traditionally Chinese. This paper explores the history, ingredients, and cooking methods crucial in the production of the cuisine, the types of food served for daily consumption, festivities and ancestral worships, as well as their Chinese symbolism. Furthermore, this paper also discusses factors that contributed to the obscurity of the culture and the cuisine after the Second World War. Lastly, the revival of the culture through the immense interest in its cuisine, especially from the 1980s, and the extent of globalization of this cuisine are also examined. Findings reported are expected to highlight the significance of Nyonya cuisine in Malaysia in the past and the present.

Contraceptive behaviour in North India

Scipedia content — Thu, 20 Oct 2016 16:35:18 +0200

Metabolic, autophagic, and mitophagic activities in cancer initiation and progression

Scipedia content — Thu, 20 Oct 2016 16:35:14 +0200

Cancer is a complex disease marked by uncontrolled cell growth and invasion. These processes are driven by the accumulation of genetic and epigenetic alterations that promote cancer initiation and progression. Contributing to genome changes are the regulation of oxidative stress and reactive species-induced damage to molecules and organelles. Redox regulation, metabolic plasticity, autophagy, and mitophagy play important and interactive roles in cancer hallmarks including sustained proliferation, activated invasion, and replicative immortality. However, the impact of these processes can differ depending on the signaling pathways altered in cancer, tumor type, tumor stage, and/or the differentiation state. Here, we highlight some of the representative studies on the impact of oxidative and nitrosative activities, mitochondrial bioenergetics, metabolism, and autophagy and mitophagy in the context of tumorigenesis. We discuss the implications of these processes for cellular activities in cancer for anti-cancer-based therapeutics.

Honoring antiparasitics: The 2015 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine

Scipedia content — Thu, 20 Oct 2016 16:35:12 +0200

Protozoa and helminths are the two main groups that cause parasitic diseases with a broad spectrum of clinical symptoms. Protozoa are unicellular organisms like the malaria parasite Plasmodium, which is responsible for the majority of deaths associated with parasitic infections. Helminths are alternative parasites that can produce debilitating diseases in hosts, some of which result in chronic infections. The discovery of effective therapeutic drugs is the key to improving health in regions of poverty and poor sanitation where these parasites usually occur. It is very encouraging that the 2015 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine was awarded to Youyou Tu as well as William C. Campbell and Satoshi Õmura for their considerable contributions in discovering artemisinin and avermectin, respectively. Both drugs revolutionized therapies for filariasis and malaria, significantly reducing by large percentages their morbidity and mortality.

Meeting the unmet needs of family planning

Scipedia content — Thu, 20 Oct 2016 16:35:09 +0200

A comparison between the effects of propofol–fentanyl with propofol–ketamine for sedation in patients undergoing endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography outside the operating room

Scipedia content — Thu, 20 Oct 2016 16:35:05 +0200

The efficient and secure techniques of anesthesia and sedation have always been needed for. One of these procedures is endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP), due to its painfulness and long duration, has high sensitivity. We compare the effects of propofol–fentanyl (PF) with propofol–ketamine (PK) to sedate patients undergoing ERCP. In this clinical trial, patients were divided into two groups of 49 people. A group received a pharmaceutical combination of PK, and another group received a pharmaceutical combination of PF. Vital signs of patients, Ramsey Sedation Score, and pain of patients were assessed. The total dosage of used propofol was also recorded. There was no significant difference seen in the patients' hemodynamic characteristics in both groups. Pain at the end of surgery and an hour after it in the PK group was less that was not statistically significant. By Ramsey Sedation Score also significant differences were not seen between groups (p = 0.68). By using total dose of propofol used also a significant difference was not observed between the two groups (p = 0.36). Rate of apnea in PK group was 32% and in the PF group was 63%, which this difference was statistically significant (p

The dual role of ROS, antioxidants and autophagy in cancer

Scipedia content — Thu, 20 Oct 2016 16:35:02 +0200

In this issue of the Biomedical Journal, we highlight a review revealing that the effect of autophagy, reactive oxygen species, and antioxidants in cancer may be a question of timing and context. We also discuss original research showing that the prevalence of cleft lip with or without palate in Taiwan has declined over the past 20 years, and what this might mean in terms of trends in abortion. Finally, we also learn about risk factors for recurrent hospital-acquired infection with multi-drug resistant bacteria, and the value of dental screening for patients with tinnitus.

Lagrangian finite element model for the 3D simulation of glass forming processes

Julio García-Espinosa — Thu, 20 Oct 2016 09:50:11 +0200

We propose here a numerical model for a three-dimensional simulation of glass forming processes. Using the basic philosophy of the Particle Finite Element method (PFEM), we introduce several new features adapting the strategy to suit the problem of interest. A modified fractional step method for the solution of the flow equations is applied. This approach, on the one hand, inherits the computational efficiency of the original fractional step approach, and on the other hand shows better mass conservation features. These features are particularly attractive taking into account the importance of the correct prediction of the glass product's wall thickness. A smart mesh update strategy and a simple mechanical contact scheme are introduced. In order to account for temperature-dependent viscosity, the heat equation is coupled to the mechanical model. Viscosity is obtained from the temperature field via an empirical law. The model is validated and an example modeling the processes in the final blow mold of the bottle manufacturing process is proposed.

Sensitivity analysis in a camera-LiDAR calibration model

Scipedia content — Thu, 13 Oct 2016 16:35:56 +0200

Recently the data fusion between a camera and a depth sensor of LiDAR type, has become an issue of major concern in industry and engineering. The quality of the delivered 3D models depends greatly on a proper calibration between sensors. This paper presents a sensitivity analysis in a camera-lidar calibration model. The variability of each parameter was calculated individually by the Sobol method, based on ANOVA technique, and the FAST method, which is based on Fourier analysis. Multiple sets of parameters were simulated using Monte Carlo and Latin Hypercube methods for the purpose of comparing the results of the sensitivity analysis. We defined which parameters are the most sensitive and prone to introduce error into our reconstruction platform. Statistics for the total and global sensibility analysis for each sensor and for each parameter are presented. Furthermore, results on the sensitivity ratio on camera-LiDAR calibration, computational cost, time simulation, discrepancy and homogeneity in the simulated data are presented.

Reliability based design optimization of a multi‐axial load cell using genetic algorithm

Scipedia content — Thu, 13 Oct 2016 16:35:46 +0200

The manufacturing process of a multi‐axial load cell requires robust tools to analyze the structural behavior when it is subjected to static and dynamic loads. In this work, it is given focus to the problem of optimizing a multi‐axial load cell model (6 load components) of Lywood type considering concepts of reliability‐based design optimization. The reliability structural analysis problem is handled including the variability effect of geometric and physical properties. The load cell is analyzed by finite element method and the reliability constraint is applied to the strength limit. The objective is the maximization of the first natural frequency and simultaneously reducing the mass and corresponding strains without violating reliability limit set as a limit. Comparisons between the deterministic optimization procedure and the proposed method are presented and it is found that the deterministic optimization points may have a high probability of failure so justifying in this type of problem the reliability‐based optimization. Different values of the safety factor were also tested with the optimization model, and it was possible to analyze, a posteriori, the reliability of the optimization results.

Use of low‐resolution CT scans for construction of detailed geometric models of mandibles with and without teeth

Scipedia content — Thu, 13 Oct 2016 16:35:31 +0200

Detailed geometric models of a mandible can improve the accuracy of computer simulations. However, cost, time and qualified labor available for their construction may hinder or delay the task. The purpose of this article is to describe a technique for reconstructing a mandible with and without teeth from clinical CT scans of low resolution. The method allows modeling geometric details usually difficult to reconstruct with these scans, such as the periodontal ligament. The models of a toothless and toothed mandible resulting from the process are available online for non‐commercial use. The models can be used in various fields such as orthodontics, implantology, orthopedics and traumatology as presented or as a basis for simulations.

Application of generalized integral and conformal transforms on the solution of a problem of laminar forced convection inside annular sector ducts

Scipedia content — Thu, 13 Oct 2016 16:35:15 +0200

This work describes a hybrid analytical‐numerical solution employing the Generalized Integral Transform Technique (GITT) to forced convection heat transfer in hydrodynamically fully developed and thermally non‐developed Newtonian laminar flow inside annular sector ducts under Dirichlet boundary conditions, considering uniform temperature entrance profile. In order to facilitate the analytical treatment and the application of the boundary conditions, a Conformal Transform was utilized to change the domain into a more suitable coordinate system. Thereafter, the GITT was applied on the energy equation to obtain the temperature field. Numerical results were obtained for quantities of practical interest, such as bulk mean temperature, local and average Nusselt number, and thermal entry length. These results were compared, as much as possible, with the parameter values available in the literature and they presented a good agreement.

Experimentation, simulation and analysis of improvised explosive devices-explosively formed projectile

Scipedia content — Thu, 13 Oct 2016 16:34:38 +0200

Within the category of improvised explosive devices are those that form explosively formed projectiles which penetrate armor and armored systems, such as those used by insurgents against allied forces in operational areas. The purpose of this study is to reproduce and understand the behavior of these improvised explosive devices capable of generating high-velocity, high penetration projectiles. Understanding their behavior will allow for improved knowledge about them, and thus will allow us to more effectively combat them. Thus, the corresponding tests were carried out and the results were obtained from the first characterizations of explosively formed projectiles built using traditional methods, just as a terrorist would have built them. Along with this, numerical models were created for each test simulating the entire event from beginning to impact on the target, including all the intermediate steps. There were three configurations tested and simulated using the software of finite element analysis, LS-DYNA®, a 2-D asymmetric configuration with Lagrangian meshes. The results obtained by the model were compared with data obtained in the experimental tests, yielding a high precision between simulated and tested data. With the data obtained in this study it can be concluded that the improvised explosive devices -explosively formed projectiles is a serious threat. Generated models will allow us to know more about these weapons, to reduce costs in the fight against the threat of improvised explosive devices-explosively formed projectiles and therefore against terrorism with explosively formed projectiles, and to have a holistic approach to the threat and to reduce the cost of experimentation. Minimize the experimental expense.

Structural damage identification in plates based on a model continuum damage

Scipedia content — Thu, 13 Oct 2016 16:34:29 +0200

The present work addresses the structural damage identification problem in plates by using the flexibility matrix. The damage is continuously described by a cohesion parameter defined in the elastic structure domain. The damage identification problem is, then, defined as an optimization one, whose aim is to minimize, with respect to the cohesion field, a functional based on the difference between the experimental flexibility matrix and the corresponding one predicted by a finite element model of the structure. The particle swarm optimization method was considered to solve the optimization problem. The numerical tests of the proposed damage identification method are carried out taking into account a rectangular Kirchhoff plate with one clamped edge. The considered damage scenario is composed by two damaged regions and the mode shapes are corrupted with different additive noise levels. The numerical results show the potentiality of the proposed method in identifying damages from a reduced number of noise corrupted experimental data.

Probabilistic assessment of the seismic risk based on stiffness degradation

Scipedia content — Thu, 13 Oct 2016 16:33:32 +0200

The incremental dynamic analysis is a powerful tool for evaluating the seismic vulnerability and risk of buildings. It allows calculating the global damage of structures for different peak ground accelerations, PGA, and representing this result by means of damage curves. Such curves are currently used to obtain seismic risk scenarios at urban level. Even if the application of this method in a probabilistic environment requires a relevant computational effort, this has to be the reference method for determining those curves. Nevertheless, it would be of high practical interest to have a simpler method based, for instance, on pushover analysis, for assessing the seismic vulnerability and risk of buildings, which allows obtaining results similar to those based on the incremental dynamic analysis. Referring to the capacity-spectrum-based-methods, expert opinions have been used in previous researches for defining damage states thresholds starting from the yielding and the ultimate spectral displacement identified in the bilinear capacity spectrum. Therefore, we propose in this article a new procedure for defining the damage states thresholds, based on the stiffness degradation of reinforced concrete building, and a fully probabilistic approach is tackled by means of Monte Carlo simulations. It is demonstrated in the paper that the obtained results are in good agreement with those calculated using the incremental dynamic analysis.

Numerical simulation of the road bus structure submitted a offset frontal impact against a rigid wall

Scipedia content — Thu, 13 Oct 2016 16:33:22 +0200

This paper presents a parametric study of the offset frontal impact on a bus, in which is assessed independently an influence of each variable involved in this accident type. The scenario of offset frontal impact is surely one of the most severe accidents involving buses, once the same has part of your lateral totally damaged and can leave a large number of victims. The numerical simulation model uses an explicit analysis formed by beams elements which uses elastic‐plastic constitutive law, which takes into account the influence of strain rate. With this model a parametric study of global variables that can characterize this type of scenario is realized. Also are evaluated qualitatively real accidents happened on Brazilian roads. The discussion is finally presented, and serves as a first step in the search for improvements to be made to the structures of the bus, aiming to minimize the damage.

Evaluation of the inelastic behavior of steel columns and frames subjected to minor‐axis bending

Scipedia content — Thu, 13 Oct 2016 16:33:13 +0200

This work presents an evaluation of the inelastic behavior of steel structures subjected to minor‐axis bending. Profiles type I and compact cross‐sections are considered. In these sections, the bent about weak axis presents important benefits, such as the ability to develop all of their plastic resistance without the occurrence of lateral torsional buckling. A nonlinear beam‐column element formulation is adopted, in which the steel yielding process is accounted by the refined plastic‐hinge method. In this method the effects of material yielding are captured by a parameter that reduces the structural member stiffness with the development of cross‐section plastic regions. The tangent modulus approach is used to consider the stiffness degradation caused by the increase in internal forces. Second–order effects, residual stresses and geometric imperfections are also considered in analysis. To define the cross‐section strength ultimate limit state, the study adopts strength surfaces that describe the interaction between internal forces — axial force and bending moment. The nonlinear equations at the structural system level are solved using the Newton‐Raphson iterative strategy coupled with path‐following methods. Isolated steel columns and portal frames are analyzed, and the results obtained are compared to those of other investigators. The comparison shows that the numerical methodology presented in this work is effective and can be used for predicting the behavior of steel structures with members under minor‐axis bending.

Semianalytical method for contact mechanic among shaft and bearing of a submarine vehicle

Scipedia content — Thu, 13 Oct 2016 16:32:40 +0200

The present study analyzes the best attachment of the propeller shaft of a submersible to his bearing, studying geometry of contact between those elements. A semi-analytical method based on the rules of the quadrature of the main values of Cauchy, the secant method and a numerical method for determining a tension map have been applied to the study of the contact surfaces between shaft and bearing. It is assumed that there are imperfections in the order of microns when machining the contact surfaces, which can produce subsurface damage that is possible, linked to pitting and the growth of fatigue cracks. Such failures not only will influence on the proper propulsive performance, but also on the watertightness conditions, which is related to the risk of ship integrity loss. The results let us to set design criteria, which account for the Youngs module and the importance of an adequate machining and further adjustment of clearances on the shaft-bearing system, thus improving the reliability of such elements.

Optimization of furnace lateral supports by genetic algorithm and particle swarm optimization

Scipedia content — Thu, 13 Oct 2016 16:32:35 +0200

Optimization of mechanical components is an important aspect of the engineering process; a well designed system will lead to money saving during the production phase and better machine life. In oil refineries and petrochemical plants, furnaces are incorporated into the process to supply thermal energy (heat) generated by fuel combustion, which is transmitted to a fluid flowing within a tube bundle, i.e., a coil. An important internal component of the furnace oil refinery is the system that supports the tube coil. This work is part of a research whose goal is to generate a new methodology for the investigation and search of the supports of the radiation zone refining furnace. This methodology represents as a whole the possibility of application of some evolutionary algorithms in the area of mechanical design of furnaces. For the optimization of the lateral supports two evolutionary algorithms are used, genetic algorithm and particle swarm algorithm. In this work a comparison between the two optimization methods chosen is carried out. Recent techniques of dynamic penalty, specifically adaptive penalty method are incorporated into the algorithms. The serviceability and strength requirements are considered in the design problem as specified in API560. The results show that the model converges to a very efficient solution without any engineer intervention. A real example is included to demonstrate the efficiency of the algorithm.

Modeling and simulation of flow in fin-and-tube heat exchangers with phase change in the coolant side

Scipedia content — Thu, 13 Oct 2016 16:31:34 +0200

This paper presents the development of a computational tool for the simulation of flow behavior in the fin-and-tube heat exchangers with phase change in the coolant side, for which the finite volume method was used for exchanger modeling and representation of the connection of the tubes was made using graph theory. Because the hydrodynamic phenomena and the 2 phase flow is not well developed, the model supports various empirical correlations for calculating the pressure drop and heat transfer coefficient. As a result a computational tool for simulating of fin-and-tube heat exchangers that allows the modeling of the refrigerant flow in single phase or two-phase state was obtained. With the model of the exchanger was possible to predict the flow behavior of an evaporator under conditions of dry and wet fins give error values below 6% with respect to the experimental data.

Semi-explicit residual goal-oriented estimate for linear mechanics

Scipedia content — Thu, 13 Oct 2016 16:30:18 +0200

We aim at defining a semi-explicit approach to estimate the error in quantities of interest associated with the Finite Element solution of a linear elasticity problem. The advocated procedure is split in two parts, an implicit error estimate for the adjoint problem and an explicit estimate assessing the error in the direct (primal) problem. The implicit part of the estimate (on the adjoint problem) embraces two phases, each consisting in projecting the error on “bubble” functional spaces. The projections are low-cost operations due to their local nature. The two phases account the error in the interior of the elements and the contribution of the elementary edges (associated with the tractions jump). The implicit character of this part is provided by the solution of the local problems in low-dimensional functional spaces. We also analyze the particular case of selecting one-dimensional functional spaces (setting the shape of the bubble and computing a scalar coefficient), which, in practice, make this part of the process explicit. The explicit part of the estimate consists in injecting in the weak primal residual the approximation of the adjoint error obtained in the first phase. This approach is similar to the DWR method but using a weak formulation of the residual and injecting an implicitly estimated adjoint error rather than a post-processed solution. The proposed methodology is validated in a numerical example

Probabilistic seismic hazard assessment of Colombia with updating purposes of the Earthquake-Resistant Building Code for Bridges CCP-14

Scipedia content — Thu, 13 Oct 2016 16:30:11 +0200

A recent update of the Colombian earthquake resistant building code for bridges (CCP-14) was developed by the Colombian Association for Earthquake Engineering (AIS). Among the different tasks developed, the values for the seismic design coefficients, compatible with the functional form of the selected elastic design spectra were established. For that reason an update of the probabilistic seismic hazard assessment was performed from which the seismic design coefficients have been estimated for Colombia. With respect to the latest national seismic hazard assessment, 5 more years of earthquake records and the consequent better understanding of the Colombian seismic environment are included in the analysis by updating the seismicity parameters of the seismogenetic sources and using ground motion prediction equations calibrated with local strong ground motion records. The seismic zonation maps for the three seismic design coefficients included in the CCP-14 are presented as well as the free online results visualization tool

MEXICAN TELECOM REFORM: PRIVATE INTEREST FIRST?

Scipedia content — Mon, 10 Oct 2016 12:29:45 +0200

Telecommunications reform, one of the pillars of President Enrique Peña Nietos highly-publicized structural reforms, was enacted to recognize as human rights access to: (i) information and communications technology; and (ii) broadcasting and telecommunications services, including broadband and the Internet. The reform also gave the Mexican government the authority to sanction or even split up companies engaged in monopolistic practices, and to establish ad hoc restrictions to minimize undue market advantages for dominant industry players – defined as companies that capture 50 percent market share measured by number of users/audience, capacity or network infrastructure. This article explores several aspects of this new legislation, including regulatory agencies; media and plurality; audience and users’ rights; restrictions to minimize market manipulation; mergers; data retention and geo-localization; and access for persons with disabilities. It also examines various aspects of the legislative process, as well as some broader implications of the new law.

MEXICO'S UPSTREAM BUSINESS MODEL

Scipedia content — Mon, 10 Oct 2016 12:29:42 +0200

A fundamental question concerning the upstream business model that is incorporated into the 2014 Energy Reform in Mexico concerns the intended evolution of the energy policy framework in which it appears. The situation of “before,” as alluded to in President Peñas remarks on March 18, 2015, was one in which Pemex served as the iconic state monopoly, and through which, by virtue of Article 6 of the now-abrogated Petroleum Law of 1958, all contracting was required to take place under restrictive terms that excluded the business model of an oil company. The government is now offering a mineral contract that approximates the business model of a mineral lease as understood diverse jurisdictions, including the U.S. and Mexico. There are important differences, however, ones that represent for the State and the prospective operator and layers of uncertainty and regulatory discretionality. As for the broader benefits for the country that the new involvement of oil companies might bring, there are a priori reasons for concern: the government seeks to sharply restrict the reporting of statistical data on the operations and discoveries of the oil companies, including Pemex. All such data are to be funneled through and managed by a single government agency (CNH), redolent of the way the way that Pemex has traditionally reported data. A decade will be needed to recast the national oil narrative in a way that allows for an evolution of the upstream regime in 2026 in which a mineral lease will be offered to oil companies.

NATURAL PERSONS, JURIDICAL PERSONS AND LEGAL PERSONHOOD

Scipedia content — Mon, 10 Oct 2016 12:29:40 +0200

The study of commercial law can be divided into four basic categories: (a) individuals (natural persons); (b) objects of commerce; (c) legal instruments and (d) administrative and legal procedures. Business relations between individuals and business entities requires significant legal documentation, including atypical or nonstandard business contracts. A central feature of all business transactions is the “legal entity”, used by organizations worldwide to conduct business. In order for many businesses to carry out routine activities, they must have many of the same legal rights and responsibilities as natural persons. In a word, these entities require “legal personhood”. Which leads us to the question of Legitimation. The most widely used legal instruments are nonstandardized business contracts. In essense, this is the delineation of contracting parties as entities with well-defined rights and obligations. This authority depends, in turn, on the legitimacy of the “personhood” of the contracting parties, which is often a point of dispute in business relations. Regardless of whether one accepts the use of terms “legal entity” and “legal personhood”, they often give rise to immeasurable and diverse conflicts domestically, regional and at global level. This had led to efforts to improve the rules of the International Chamber of Commerce and improve legal models that provide guidance to diverse nations. We have reviewed the works of different authors concluding with the personal insights of Elvia Arcelia Quintana.

ELECTORAL GOVERNANCE: MORE THAN JUST ELECTORAL ADMINISTRATION

Scipedia content — Mon, 10 Oct 2016 12:29:37 +0200

The Michoacanazo: A Case-Study of Wrongdoing in the Mexican Federal Judiciary

Scipedia content — Mon, 10 Oct 2016 12:29:35 +0200

The Michoacanazo was a federal criminal trial in Mexico prosecuted by the Attorney Generals Office against local and state public officials from the state of Michoacán who were indicted for having ties with the local drug cartel formally known as “La Familia Michoacana.” With the indictment, more than 30 public servants were arrested and sent to prison in a roundup carried out by the federal police in May 2009. Within a two-year period, all of those arrested were eventually released. This case had strong legal and political implications nationwide because it pitted the state of Michoacán against the federal government, as well as President Felipe Calderons administration against the Mexican Federal Judiciary. The Michoacanazo provides a glimpse into the inner workings of the Mexican federal judiciary when powerful interests collide, and corruption intermingles with politics, a drug cartel, and the complexities of handling drug-related trials.

MEXICAN ADMINISTRATIVE LAW AGAINST CORRUPTION: SCOPE AND FUTURE

Scipedia content — Mon, 10 Oct 2016 12:29:33 +0200

This work gives a synopsis of the evolution of public administration control mechanisms in Mexico. It highlights the instrumental nature of oversight, as well as regulatory and assessment aspects, and discusses issues like the historical design of the control instruments used in Mexican public administration. Certain social and political aspects from a legal perspective of administrative anti-corruption regulations are then underscored. The article concludes by drawing attention to the fact that neither the newly designed political-administrative anti-corruption structure in Mexico (the National Anti-Corruption Commission) nor the new mechanism to emerge from draft legislation (the National Anti-Corruption and Oversight Institute) will not eliminate corruption in the country because they replicate the same model established for reforming legal institutions. This article aims to show how the Mexican model has repeatedly designed administrative rules and structures that are unable to rise above the political and social spheres in which the complex phenomenon of corruption is deeply entrenched and creates a schism between legislative development and Mexicos social-political experiences in its fight against corruption. These observations can serve to help other countries design anti-corruption instruments. China is cited in this article because this article was presented as a speech regarding the Mexican experience in that country. It should be noted that the intention of this study was not to make a comparison of corruption or of the legal structures in these countries, but to analyze the case of Mexico.

Anti-apoptotic treatment in mouse models of age-related hearing loss

Scipedia content — Mon, 10 Oct 2016 11:20:28 +0200

Age-related hearing loss (AHL), or presbycusis, is the most common neurodegenerative disorder and top communication deficit of the aged population. Genetic predisposition is one of the major factors in the development of AHL. Generally, AHL is associated with an age-dependent loss of sensory hair cells, spiral ganglion neurons and stria vascularis cells in the inner ear. Although the mechanisms leading to genetic hearing loss are not completely understood, caspase-family proteases function as important signals in the inner ear pathology. It is now accepted that mouse models are the best tools to study the mechanism of genetic hearing loss or AHL. Here, we provide a brief review of recent studies on hearing improvement in mouse models of AHL by anti-apoptotic treatment.

Arsenic ototoxicity

Scipedia content — Mon, 10 Oct 2016 11:20:25 +0200

High levels of arsenic are found in many parts of the world and more than 100 million people may have been exposed to it. There is growing evidence to indicate that arsenic has a deleterious effect on the auditory system. This paper provides the general information of arsenic and its ototoxic effects.

Climatic variations and benign paroxysmal positional vertigo

Scipedia content — Mon, 10 Oct 2016 11:20:21 +0200

Benign paroxysmal positional vertigo (BPPV) is probably the most common diagnosis at vertigo clinics. Seasonal cycles of several human illnesses could be attributed variously to changes in atmospheric or weather conditions. In this retrospective study, patients with BPPV from January 2010 to December 2012 were studied, and their charts were reviewed. Statistical analysis revealed a statistically significant difference in patients' numbers among different months of the year. Also there is a significant statistical correlation between the numbers of patients with climatic variations especially the temperature. The present paper discusses the possible explanations for these results which confirms the seasonal variations in BPPV, together with a review of literature to view the possible associations with other disorders that causes such seasonality.

Communication outcomes following cochlear implantation in a child with cystic cochleovestibular anomaly

Scipedia content — Mon, 10 Oct 2016 11:20:17 +0200

Cochlear implantation is one of the best amongst the various management options available for children and adults with severe to profound sensorineural hearing loss. Inner ear and internal auditory canal (IAC) malformations accounts to approximately 25% of congenital sensorineural hearing loss in children. The primary goal of this report was to evaluate the communication outcomes after cochlear implantation in a child with cystic cochleovestibular anomaly (CCVA). The child was evaluated through various standardized outcome measures at regular intervals to track the progress in terms of auditory and spoken language skills. The scores on Categories of Auditory Perception (CAP), Meaningful Auditory Integration Scale (MAIS), Speech Intelligibility Rating (SIR), Meaningful Use of Speech Scale (MUSS), and listening and spoken language skills showed a significant leap in 12 months duration post implantation. The report thus highlights and correlates the significant progress in auditory and spoken language skills of the child with congenital malformations to appropriate auditory rehabilitation and intensive parental training.

Safety and outcomes of cochlear implantation in the elderly: A review of recent literature

Scipedia content — Mon, 10 Oct 2016 11:20:15 +0200

Global demographic changes related to longevity are leading to increasing numbers of the elderly, for whom hearing loss is a significant cause of morbidity and disability. Once met with reticence, severely hearing impaired older adults are increasingly being considered for cochlear implantation (CI). Significant data indicate that CI in the elderly population is safe, well-tolerated, and effective. Risks from CI surgery and anesthesia are low and generally comparable to rates in other age groups. Outcomes studies regarding CI in older adults have shown excellent improvements to speech perception, quality of life, and even cognition. Overall, currently available data suggests that advanced age should not, in itself, be considered a barrier to implantation. This review paper will highlight selected articles from recent medical literature regarding the safety and efficacy of CI in the elderly population.

Ingestão de cálcio por adolescentes: inquérito de saúde de base populacional

Scipedia content — Mon, 10 Oct 2016 11:08:10 +0200

To analyze calcium intake in adolescents according to sociodemographic variables, health-related behaviors, morbidities, and body mass index. This was a cross-sectional population-based study, with a two-stage cluster sampling that used data from a survey conducted in Campinas, São Paulo, Brazil, between 2008 and 2009. Food intake was assessed using a 24-hour dietary recall. The study included 913 adolescents aged 10–19 years. Average nutrient intake was significantly lower in the segment with lower education of the head of the family and lower per capita family income, in individuals from other cities or states, those who consumed fruit less than four times a week, those who did not drink milk daily, those who were smokers, and those who reported the occurrence of headaches and dizziness. Higher mean calcium intake was found in individuals that slept less than seven hours a day. The prevalence of calcium intake below the recommendation was 88.6% (95% CI: 85.4–91.2). The results alert to an insufficient calcium intake and suggest that certain subgroups of adolescents need specific strategies to increase the intake of this nutrient.

Influência do tabagismo passivo na aprendizagem de escolares

Scipedia content — Mon, 10 Oct 2016 11:08:07 +0200

To analyze the association between household smoking and the development of learning in elementary schoolchildren. Cross-sectional study with 785 students from the 2nd to the 5th year of elementary school. Students were evaluated by the School Literacy Screening Protocol to identify the presence of learning disabilities. Mothers/guardians were interviewed at home through a validated questionnaire. Descriptive and bivariate analysis, as well as multivariate Poisson regression, were performed. In the final model, the variables associated with learning difficulties were current smoking at the household in the presence of the child (PR = 6.10, 95% CI: 4.56 to 8.16), maternal passive smoking during pregnancy (PR = 1.46, 95% CI: 1.07 to 2.01), students attending the 2nd and 3rd years of Elementary School (PR = 1.44, 95% CI: 1.10 to 1.90), and being children of mothers with only elementary level education (PR = 1.36, 95% CI: 1.04 to 1.79). The study demonstrated an association between passive exposure to tobacco smoke and learning difficulties at school.

Comparação de dois esquemas posológicos de ibuprofeno para o fechamento do canal arterial em recém-nascidos pré-termo

Scipedia content — Mon, 10 Oct 2016 11:08:04 +0200

To compare the efficacy of intravenous ibuprofen at high (20-10-10 mg/kg/dose) and low doses (10-5-5 mg/kg/dose) the closure of patent ductus arteriosus in preterm newborns. A cohort study with historical control of newborns that received high- and low-dose intravenous ibuprofen, from 2010 to 2013 in a neonatal intensive care unit, for closure of the patent ductus arteriosus, documented by echocardiography. Secondary outcomes included the number of ibuprofen cycles, incidence of bronchopulmonary dysplasia, necrotizing enterocolitis, changes in renal function, and death. Seventy-seven patients received three doses of ibuprofen for the treatment of patent ductus arteriosus, with 33 receiving high-dose and 44 low-dose therapy. The ductus closed after the first cycle in 25 (56.8%) low-dose patients and in 17 (51.5%) high-dose patients (p > 0.99). Sixteen patients received a second cycle of ibuprofen, and the ductus closed in 50% after low-dose and in 60% after high-dose therapy (p > 0.99). Seven patients required surgery for ductus closure, 13.6% in the low-dose group and 3% in the high-dose group (p = 0.22). Thirty-nine patients developed bronchopulmonary dysplasia, 50% in the low-dose group and 51.5% in the high-dose group (p > 0.99). Twenty-two (50%) low-dose patients died vs. 15 (45.5%) high-dose patients (p = 0.86). There was no difference in closure of the ductus arteriosus or occurrence of adverse effects between the two dose regimens.

Bioimpedanciometria tetrapolar segmentada vertical para a avaliação do excesso de gordura corporal em adolescentes

Scipedia content — Mon, 10 Oct 2016 11:08:02 +0200

Leucemia Mielóide Aguda: análise do perfil epidemiológico e taxa de sobrevida

Scipedia content — Mon, 10 Oct 2016 11:08:00 +0200

To describe the epidemiological profile and the survival rate of patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) in a state reference pediatric hospital. Clinical–epidemiological, observational, retrospective, descriptive study. The study included new cases of patients with AML, diagnosed between 2004 and 2012, younger than 15 years. Of the 51 patients studied, 84% were white; 45% were females and 55%, males. Regarding age, 8% were younger than 1 year, 47% were aged between 1 and 10 years, and 45% were older than 10 years. The main signs/symptoms were fever (41.1%), asthenia/lack of appetite (35.2%), and hemorrhagic manifestations (27.4%). The most affected extra-medullary site was the central nervous system (14%). In 47% of patients, the white blood cell (WBC) count was below 10,000/mm3 at diagnosis. The minimal residual disease (MRD) was less than 0.1%, on the 15th day of treatment in 16% of the sample. Medullary relapse occurred in 14% of cases. When comparing the bone marrow MRD with the vital status, it was observed that 71.42% of the patients with type M3 AML were alive, as were 54.05% of those with non-M3 AML. The death rate was 43% and the main proximate cause was septic shock (63.6%). In this study, the majority of patients were male, white, and older than 1 year. Most patients with WBC count

Microcefalia e vírus Zika: um olhar clínico e epidemiológico do surto em vigência no Brasil

Scipedia content — Mon, 10 Oct 2016 11:07:57 +0200

This study aimed to critically review the literature available regarding the Zika virus outbreak in Brazil and its possible association with microcephaly cases. Experts from Instituto do Cérebro do Rio Grande do Sul performed a critical (nonsystematic) literature review regarding different aspects of the Zika virus outbreak in Brazil, such as transmission, epidemiology, diagnostic criteria, and its possible association with the increase of microcephaly reports. The PubMed search using the key word “Zika virus” in February 2016 yielded 151 articles. The manuscripts were reviewed, as well as all publications/guidelines from the Brazilian Ministry of Health, World Health Organization and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC – United States). Epidemiological data suggest a temporal association between the increased number of microcephaly notifications in Brazil and outbreak of Zika virus, primarily in the Brazils Northeast. It has been previously documented that many different viruses might cause congenital acquired microcephaly. Still there is no consensus on the best curve to measure cephalic circumference, specifically in preterm neonates. Conflicting opinions regarding the diagnosis of microcephaly (below 2 or 3 standard deviations) that should be used for the notifications were also found in the literature. The development of diagnostic techniques that confirm a cause–effect association and studies regarding the physiopathology of the central nervous system impairment should be prioritized. It is also necessary to strictly define the criteria for the diagnosis of microcephaly to identify cases that should undergo an etiological investigation.

Determinantes sociais e biológicos do crescimento e desenvolvimento em sociedades menos favorecidas

Scipedia content — Mon, 10 Oct 2016 11:07:55 +0200

Otimizando a saúde óssea em adolescentes brasileiros: utilização de um levantamento de base populacional para orientar intervenções direcionadas para aumentar a ingestão alimentar de cálcio

Scipedia content — Mon, 10 Oct 2016 11:07:53 +0200

Manejo nutricional e prognóstico pós-operatório do recém-nascido submetido à correção cirúrgica primária de gastrosquise

Scipedia content — Mon, 10 Oct 2016 11:07:49 +0200

Gastroschisis is a defect of the abdominal wall, resulting in congenital evisceration and requiring neonatal intensive care, early surgical correction, and parenteral nutrition. This study evaluated newborns with gastroschisis, seeking to associate nutritional characteristics with time of hospital stay. This was a retrospective cohort study of 49 newborns undergoing primary repair of gastroschisis between January 1995 and December 2010. The newborns’ characteristics were described with emphasis on nutritional aspects, correlating them with length of hospital stay. The characteristics that influenced length of hospital stay were: (1) newborn small for gestational age (SGA); (2) use of antibiotics; (3) day of life when enteral feeding was started; (4) day of life when full diet was reached. SGA infants had longer length of hospital stay (24.2%) than other newborns. The length of hospital stay was increased by 2.1% for each additional day taken to introduce enteral feeding. However, slower onset of full enteral feeding acted as a protective factor, decreasing length of stay by 3.6%. The volume of waste drained by the stomach catheter in the 24 h prior the start of enteral feeding was not associated with the timing of diet introduction or length of hospital stay. Early start of enteral feeding and small, gradual increase of volume can shorten the use of parenteral nutrition. This management strategy contributes to reduce the incidence of infection and length of hospital stay of newborns with gastroschisis.

Resposta: Bioimpedanciometria tetrapolar segmentada vertical para a avaliação do excesso de gordura corporal em adolescentes

Scipedia content — Mon, 10 Oct 2016 11:07:46 +0200

Impact of institutionalization and anticholinergic medication on postoperative morbidity for major colorectal resections

Scipedia content — Fri, 07 Oct 2016 15:10:26 +0200

Institutionalized patients pose various surgical difficulties as many have conditions requiring psychiatric medications with the propensity for anticholinergic side effects. This study was initiated to determine the impact of institutionalization and anticholinergic medication on postoperative outcomes. A total of 430 colorectal resection cases from 2006 to 2012 were studied. Among them, 19 were institutionalized patients and 17 were on long-term anticholinergic medications. Surgical outcomes were quantified by Clavien scoring, need for reoperations and postoperative deaths. Patients who were institutionalized or on anticholinergic medication were more likely to have increased postoperative morbidity requiring invasive interventions or worse (Clavien score ≥ 3; odds ratios 5.02 and 3.63, 95% confidence intervals 1.93–13.06 and 1.29–10.21 respectively). However, only institutionalization was found to be an independent risk factor. This study identified institutionalized patients as a higher risk group associated with postoperative complications compared to patients from the community. Thus, they merit a more thorough preoperative optimization closer postoperative monitoring regime.

Prophylactic central lymph node dissection in cN0 patients with papillary thyroid carcinoma: A retrospective study in China

Scipedia content — Fri, 07 Oct 2016 15:10:24 +0200

The objective of the study was to assess the patterns of central cervical lymph node metastasis (CLNM) and evaluate the prophylactic central lymph node dissection (CLND) in papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) patients without clinical positive lymph nodes. We retrospectively reviewed 1555 patients with PTC between 2003 and 2008. Lymph node metastatic risk factors and the pattern of lymph node metastasis in PTC were studied using multivariate analysis. Male patients, aged ≤ 45 years, the presence of extrathyroidal extension, and a primary tumor size > 10 mm were identified as risk factors for CLNM with odds ratios of 2.089, 2.417, 1.534, and 3.079, respectively. Among 1555 patients, 97 cases (6.24%) had transient hypoparathyroidism, and only two patients (0.13%) had permanent hypoparathyroidism. Recurrent laryngeal nerve injury after thyroidectomy occurred in 14 patients (0.9%). In this group, nine cases were transient injury and the remaining five were permanent. During the period of follow-up, ranging from 5 years to 10 years, 18 patients (1.16%) were found with locoregional recurrence. Taken together, in terms of the high incidence rate of CLNM in cN0 PTC patients, we believe that routine prophylactic CLND is optimal for clinically negative PTC patients, during their first treatment, especially for those with risk factors for CLNM.

Are endothelial damage and inflammation level demonstrated clearly in liver transplant patients?

Scipedia content — Fri, 07 Oct 2016 15:10:22 +0200

Occupational Health: Meeting the Challenges of the Next 20 Years

Scipedia content — Fri, 07 Oct 2016 12:59:37 +0200

The industrial revolution that took place in the United Kingdom (UK) between 1760 and 1830 led to profound social change. Occupational medicine was concerned with the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of occupational diseases, that is, diseases directly caused by exposure to workplace hazards. A similar pattern of development has occurred globally. A review of relevant literature. The international conceptualization and development of occupational health occurred during the 20th century. A new paradigm for occupational health has emerged that extends the classical focus on what might be termed “health risk management” that is, the focus on workplace hazards and risk to health to include the medical aspects of sickness absence and rehabilitation, the support and management of chronic noncommunicable diseases, and workplace health promotion. The future strategic direction for occupational health will be informed by a needs analysis and a consideration of where it should be positioned within future healthcare provision. What are the occupational health workforce implications of the vision for occupational health provision? New challenges and new ways of working will necessitate a review of the competence and capacity of the occupational health workforce, with implications for future workforce planning.

Measurement and Modeling of Personal Exposure to the Electric and Magnetic Fields in the Vicinity of High Voltage Power Lines

Scipedia content — Fri, 07 Oct 2016 12:59:30 +0200

This work presents an experimental and modeling study of the electromagnetic environment in the vicinity of a high voltage substation located in eastern Algeria (Annaba city) specified with a very high population density. The effects of electromagnetic fields emanating from the coupled multi-lines high voltage power systems (MLHV) on the health of the workers and people living in proximity of substations has been analyzed. Experimental Measurements for the Multi-lines power system proposed have been conducted in the free space under the high voltage lines. Fields intensities were measured using a referenced and calibrated electromagnetic field meter PMM8053B for the levels 0 m, 1 m, 1.5 m and 1.8 m witch present the sensitives parts as organs and major functions (head, heart, pelvis and feet) of the human body. The measurement results were validated by numerical simulation using the finite element method and these results are compared with the limit values of the international standards. We project to set own national standards for exposure to electromagnetic fields, in order to achieve a regional database that will be at the disposal of partners concerned to ensure safety of people and mainly workers inside high voltage electrical substations.

Unions, Health and Safety Committees, and Workplace Accidents in the Korean Manufacturing Sector

Scipedia content — Fri, 07 Oct 2016 12:59:26 +0200

Despite the declining trend of workplace accidents in Republic of Korea, its level is still quite high compared with that in other developed countries. Factors that are responsible for high workplace accidents have not been well documented in Republic of Korea. The main purpose of this paper is to estimate the effects of unions and health and safety committees on workplace accidents in Korean manufacturing firms. We also allow for the interactions between unions and health and safety committees in the analysis. The results obtained in this paper will not only contribute to the literature in this field, but might also be useful for employers and worker representatives who are trying to find an effective way to reduce workplace accidents. This paper utilizes the 2012 Occupational Safety and Health Trend Survey data, which is a unique data set providing information on workplace injuries and illness as well as other characteristics of participatory firms, representative of the manufacturing industry in Republic of Korea. In estimating the effects of unions and health and safety committees, we build a negative binomial regression model in which the interactions between unions and health and safety committees are permissible in reducing workplace accidents. Health and safety committees were found to reduce the incidence of accidents whereas unionized establishments have higher incidence of accidents than nonunionized establishments. We also found that health and safety committees can more effectively reduce accidents in nonunionized establishments. By contrast, nonexclusive joint committees can more effectively reduce accidents in unionized establishments.

Workplace Violence and Safety Issues in Long-Term Medical Care Facilities: Nurses' Perspectives

Scipedia content — Fri, 07 Oct 2016 12:59:22 +0200

Workplace violence (WPV) is becoming an issue that needs immediate attention in the United States, especially during this period as more states are adopting the “stand your ground laws to promote worker protection.” This study was conducted to investigate how WPV has contributed to an unsafe environment for nurses and nursing assistants who work in long-term medical care facilities. A structure questionnaire was used to collect data for the study. Three facilities were sampled and 80 nurses and certified nursing assistants participated in the study. Ninety-two percent (n = 74) were female and 8% (n = 6) were male. Approximately 62% were black or African American, approximately 33% were Caucasians, and only 2% were from other ethnicities. We found that 65% of the participants had experienced WPV while 41% believed that management shows little or no concern for their safety. Approximately 23% of respondents believed that reporting supervisors WPV act is an unsafe action. In addition, 22% of those who reported that they have experienced WPV believed that the work environment is not safe to perform their duties. This significant difference in perception of workplace safety between those who had experienced WPV and those who had not was significant (t = 3.95, df = 158, p

Promoting a Shared Representation of Workers' Activities to Improve Integrated Prevention of Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders

Scipedia content — Fri, 07 Oct 2016 12:59:17 +0200

Effective and sustainable prevention of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WR-MSDs) remains a challenge for preventers and policy makers. Coordination of stakeholders involved in the prevention of WR-MSDs is a key factor that requires greater reflection on common knowledge and shared representation of workers' activities among stakeholders. Information on workers' strategies and operational leeway should be the core of common representations, because it places workers at the center of the “work situation system” considered by the intervention models. Participatory ergonomics permitting debates among stakeholders about workers' activity and strategies to cope with the work constraints in practice could help them to share representations of the “work situation system” and cooperate. Sharing representation therefore represents a useful tool for prevention, and preventers should provide sufficient space and time for dialogue and discussion of workers' activities among stakeholders during the conception, implementation, and management of integrated prevention programs.

Employee Perceptions of Their Organizations Level of Emergency Preparedness Following a Brief Workplace Emergency Planning Educational Presentation

Scipedia content — Fri, 07 Oct 2016 12:59:14 +0200

A brief emergency planning educational presentation was taught during work hours to a convenience sample of employees of various workplaces in Northern Missouri, USA. Participants were familiarized with details about how an emergency plan is prepared by management and implemented by management-employee crisis management teams – focusing on both employee and management roles. They then applied the presentation information to assess their own organization’s emergency preparedness level. Participants possessed significantly (p

Analyzing price, warranty length, and service capacity under a fuzzy environment: Genetic algorithm and fuzzy system

Scipedia content — Thu, 06 Oct 2016 11:26:25 +0200

In this article, we propose a bi-objective model for the pricing–queuing problem under a fuzzy environment. We consider two objectives: maximizing the profit function and minimizing the waiting time in queue. Imagine a firm which sells a product in a channel providing after sales services. The sales price and warranty length affect customer demand. We formulate the demand function as a fuzzy system considering the sales price and warranty length. The firm optimizes the sales price and warranty length, as well as waiting time, in the queue of after sales services, to maximize its revenues and minimize waiting time. To solve the derived model, we develop a hybrid solution method of a fuzzy system and a genetic algorithm. Finally, the numerical analysis is done to show the reasonable performance of the solution method and results.

Effect of leading-edge roughness on boundary layer transition of an oscillating airfoil

Scipedia content — Thu, 06 Oct 2016 11:26:11 +0200

A series of experiments were conducted to study the effect of leading-edge roughness on the state of the boundary layer of a wind turbine blade section using multiple hot-film sensors. The experiments involved static and dynamic tests, where airfoil motion was of plunging type oscillation. The application of surface grit roughness simulates surface irregularities that occur on the wind turbine blades. The measurements showed that increasing the angle of attack results in movement of transition locations toward the leading edge. Surface roughness moved the transition point toward the leading edge and caused early trailing edge turbulent separation, which resulted in reducing the effectiveness of the airfoil. Boundary layer instability frequencies were dominated through the transition.

Chebyshev rational functions approximation for model order reduction using harmony search

Scipedia content — Thu, 06 Oct 2016 11:25:57 +0200

A new method for model reduction of linear systems is presented, based on Chebyshev rational functions, using the Harmony Search (HS) algorithm. First, the full order system is expanded and then a set of parameters in a fixed structure are determined, whose values define the reduced order system. The values are obtained by minimizing the errors between the ll first coefficients of the Chebyshev rational function expansion of full and reduced systems, using the HS algorithm. To assure stability, the Routh criterion is used as constraints in the optimization problem. To present the ability of the proposed method, three test systems are reduced. The results obtained are compared with other existing techniques. The results obtained show the accuracy and efficiency of the proposed method.

A type-2 fuzzy system model for reducing bullwhip effects in supply chains and its application in steel manufacturing

Scipedia content — Thu, 06 Oct 2016 11:25:06 +0200

The purpose of this paper is to evaluate and reduce the bullwhip effect in fuzzy environments by means of type-2 fuzzy methodology. In order to reduce the bullwhip effect in a supply chain, we propose a new method for demand forecasting. First, the demand data of a real steel industry in Canada is clustered with an interval type-2 fuzzy cc-regression clustering algorithm. Then, a novel interval type-2 fuzzy hybrid expert system is developed for demand forecasting. This system uses Fuzzy Disjunctive Normal Forms (FDNF) and Fuzzy Conjunctive Normal Forms (FCNF) for the aggregation of antecedents. An interval type-2 fuzzy order policy is developed to determine orders in the supply chain. Then, the results of the proposed method are compared with the type-1 fuzzy expert system as well as the type-1 fuzzy time series method in the literature. The results show that the bullwhip effect is significantly reduced; also, the system has less error and high accuracy.

Optimal topological design of power communication networks using genetic algorithm

Scipedia content — Thu, 06 Oct 2016 11:24:51 +0200

An electric power supply is the backbone of development in advanced as well as in developing economies. An integral part of ensuring a secure power supply system is a power communication system. Due to the high and sustained performance requirements of power communication systems, electric companies prefer to construct their own communication networks privately rather than relying solely on a public communication system. The focus of this paper is on the optimal topological design of a power communication network. Based on advanced optimization models in public communication networks, and taking into account the specific Quality of Service, as demanded by various applications, such as protection, SCADA, voice, etc., an optimization model (PC/ISO) has been developed. The PC/ISO requires tedious numerical processing. Hence, a Genetic Algorithm (GA) is proposed to solve the optimization problem. In order to demonstrate the application of the proposed model for a power system communication network design and in order to evaluate GA solver results, a case study on designing the optimal communication network topology of one of the Iranian Regional Electric Companies has been conducted. The results suggest that the PC/ISO model and its GA solver are entirely viable and offer a simple, accurate, and cost effective solution.

Peer evaluation of multi-attribute analysis techniques: Case of a light rail transit network choice

Scipedia content — Thu, 06 Oct 2016 11:24:27 +0200

This paper attempts to present a method for differentiating between multi-attribute decision procedures and to identify some competent procedures for major decision problems, where a matrix of alternative-measure of effectiveness and a vector of weights for the latter are available. In this respect, several known multi-attribute analysis procedures are chosen, and the same procedures are exploited to evaluate themselves, based on some evaluation criteria. This is done from an engineering viewpoint and in the context of a transportation problem, using a real case light rail transit network choice problem for the City of Mashhad, and the results are presented. Two concepts have been proposed in this respect and used in this evaluation; peer evaluation and information evaluation, which are investigated in this paper. In the evaluation of five multi-attribute decision procedures, based on nine criteria, and with the help of these procedures themselves in the context of the case under study, the results revealed that these procedures found Electre, Linear Assignment, Simple Additive Weighting, TOPSIS, and Minkowski Distance better than others, in the same order as given. This is backed by a wide range of sensitivity analyses. Nevertheless, despite specific conclusions made regarding the better decision procedures among those evaluated, this paper finds its contribution mainly in the approach to such evaluations and choices.

A new method for the oxidation of 1, 4-dihydropyridine derivatives by guanidinium nitrate in the presence of silica sulfuric acid under mild, heterogeneous and metal-free conditions

Scipedia content — Thu, 06 Oct 2016 11:24:13 +0200

In this paper, a new and convenient method is introduced for the oxidation of a variety of Hantzsch 1, 4-dihydropyridine derivatives to their corresponding pyridine compounds using guanidinium nitrate and silica sulfuric acid. The reactions were carried out in dichloromethane at room temperature and the products were isolated at high to excellent yields.

A novel technique for mitigating motion artifacts in 3D brain imaging systems

Scipedia content — Thu, 06 Oct 2016 11:23:53 +0200

Over the past several years,there have been substantial improvements in the area of three-dimensional (3D) cone-beam Computed Tomography (CT) imaging systems. Nevertheless, more improvement is needed to detect and mitigate motion artifacts in the clinical follow-up of neurological patients with multiple sclerosis, tumors, and stroke, etc., in which failure to detect motion artifacts often leads to misdiagnosis of disease. In this paper, we propose a marker-based innovative approach to detect and mitigate motion artifacts in 3D cone-beam brain CT systems without using any external motion tracking sensors. Motion is detected by comparing the motion-free ideal marker projections and the corresponding measured marker projections. Once motion is detected, motion parameters (six degrees-of-freedom of motion) are estimated using a numerical optimization technique. Artifacts, caused by motions, are mitigated in the back projection stage of the 3D reconstruction process by correcting the position of every reconstruction voxel according to the estimated motion parameters. We refer to this algorithm as the MB_FDK (Marker-based Feldkemp–Davis–Kress) algorithm. MB_FDK has been evaluated on a modified 3D Shepp–Logan phantom with a range of simulated motion. Simulation results demonstrate a quantitative and qualitative validation of motion detection and artifact mitigation techniques.

Investigation of joist floor diaphragm flexibility on inelastic behavior of steel braced structures

Scipedia content — Thu, 06 Oct 2016 11:23:45 +0200

The flexibility of floor diaphragms has a significant influence on the behavior of building structures. Commonly, in analyzing structures, floor diaphragms are considered rigid. This assumption distributes lateral loads between the resistant elements according to their rigidities, and decreases the degree of freedom that creates easier analysis. However, in steel structures with braced frames and long span floors, diaphragms usually behave flexibly. The seismic responses of such structures vary to the expected response of typical rigid floor structures. Ignoring the effects of diaphragm flexibility can lead to non-economic or unsafe structural design. In this paper, the nonlinear responses of braced steel buildings with flexible concrete block-joist floor diaphragms are investigated under both static lateral load and dynamic ground motion, and they are compared with the responses of structures with the assumption of rigid diaphragms. This study demonstrates that span ratio is an important parameter in the flexibility of floor diaphragms, and if this ratio exceeds three, the variation of results between the two assumptions of flexible and rigid diaphragms may not be ignored. In addition, results show that diaphragm flexibility changes the seismic response of the structures and linear analysis is not sufficient to explain this behavior.

Determination of optimum injection flow rate to achieve maximum micro bubble drag reduction in ships; an experimental approach

Scipedia content — Thu, 06 Oct 2016 11:23:35 +0200

Reduction in ship resistance, in order to decrease fuel consumption and also achieve higher speeds, has been the topic of major research over the last three decades. One of the most attractive ideas in this field is micro bubble drag reduction, which attempts to obtain optimum injection flow rate based on ship specifications. The model test results of a 70 cm catamaran model was used to quantify the effect of air injection rate on drag reduction, and to estimate a simple formulation for calculating an efficient injection rate by considering the main parameters of the ship, such as: length, width and speed. The test results show that excessive air injection decreases the drag reduction effect, while suitable injection reduces total drag by about 5%–8%.

Spatial correlation aware protocols for efficient data aggregation of moving object in wireless sensor networks

Scipedia content — Thu, 06 Oct 2016 11:23:13 +0200

In Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs), power consumption of sensor nodes is the main constraint. Emerging in-network aggregation techniques are increasingly being sought after to address this key challenge and to save precious energy. One application of WSNs is in data gathering of moving objects. In order to achieve complete coverage, this type of application requires spatially dense sensor deployment, which, under close observation, exhibits important spatial correlation characteristics. The Rate Distortion (RD) theory is a data aggregation technique that can take advantage of this type of correlation with the help of a cluster based communication model. Due to object movement, the Rate-Distortion based aggregation incurs high computation overhead. This paper first introduces an introduction for the rate-distortion based moving object data aggregation model. Then, to overcome the high computation overhead, several low overhead protocols are proposed based on this model, namely, a static cluster-based protocol that uses static clustering, a dynamic cluster-based protocol that uses dynamic clustering, and a hybrid protocol which takes advantage of the other two protocols. Simulation results show that with the hybrid method, it is possible to save more than 36% of the nodes’ energy when compared to the other approaches.

Estimation of the mean of a socially undesirable characteristic

Scipedia content — Thu, 06 Oct 2016 11:22:52 +0200

This paper focuses on presenting a generalization of the scrambled response models of Hussain and Shabbir [Hussain, Z. and Shabbir, J. “On estimation of mean of a sensitive quantitative variable”, InterStat, (#006), (2007)] and Gjestvang and Singh [Gjestvang, C.R. and Singh, S. “An improved randomized response model: estimation of mean”, Journal of Applied Statistics, 36(12), pp. 1361–1367 (2009)]. The suggested generalization is helpful in procuring honest data on socially undesirable characteristics. The suggested estimator is found to be unconditionally more efficient in terms of variablity. From a privacy point of view, comparison of the proposed class of models is made using the privacy protection measure by Zaizai et al. [Zaizai, Y., Jingu, W. and Junfeng, L. “An efficiency and protection based comparison among the quantitative randomized response strategies”, Communications in Statistics-Theory and Methods, 38, pp. 400–408 (2009)]. Unlike many scrambled response models, the proposed class of models is free from the need of known parameters of scrambling variables. The relative numerical efficiency of the proposed model is simulated for some fixed values of the parameters. The practical application of the proposed model is also studied through a small scale survey.

Nanocarriers, nanovaccines, and nanobacteria as nanobiotechnological concerns in modern vaccines

Scipedia content — Thu, 06 Oct 2016 11:22:47 +0200

This review briefly describes the concerns of nanobiotechnology in the design and development of novel vaccines using the most known nanocarriers, including nature-made nanocarriers (such as bacterial spores, virus-like particles, exosomes, and bacteriophages), man-made nanocarriers (such as Proteosomes, liposomes, virosomes, SuperFluids, and nanobeads), and their applications in therapeutic and protective immunization, as well as their advantages and disadvantages. Here, we focus on the development of nano-based vaccines as “nanovaccines” for inducing immune systems, and the foreseeable promises and problems when compared with existing vaccines. Also, we review a potential nano-hazard for vaccines, so-called nanobacterial contamination.

Grey stochastic multi-criteria decision-making approach based on expected probability degree

Scipedia content — Thu, 06 Oct 2016 11:22:27 +0200

After definition of the discrete grey stochastic variable and its expected value, the expected probability degree is defined. For multi-criteria decision-making problems, in which the criteria weights are incompletely certain and the criteria values of alternatives are in the form of grey stochastic variables, a grey stochastic multi-criteria decision-making approach is proposed. In this method, the evaluation value of each alternative under each criterion can be transformed to comprise the expected probability degree judgment matrix, based on which, a non-linear programming model can be enacted. In the end, the genetic algorithm is used to solve the model to attain the criteria weights, and the ranking of alternatives can be produced consequently. The feasibility and validity of this approach are illustrated by an example.