bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Orientation Encoding and Viewpoint Invariance in Face Recognition: Inferring Neural Properties from Large-Scale Signals
Authors: Ramírez Fernando M.
Published: June 2018

Viewpoint-invariant face recognition is thought to be subserved by a distributed network of occipitotemporal face-selective areas that, except for the human anterior temporal lobe, have been shown to also contain face-orientation information. This review begins by highlighting the importance of bilateral symmetry for viewpoint-invariant recognition and face-orientation perception. Then, monkey electrophysiological evidence is surveyed describing key tuning properties of face-selective neurons—including neurons bimodally tuned to mirror-symmetric face-views—followed by studies combining functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and multivariate pattern analyses to probe the representation of face-orientation and identity information in humans. Altogether, neuroimaging studies suggest that face-identity is gradually disentangled from face-orientation information along the ventral visual processing stream. The evidence seems to diverge, however, regarding the prevalent form of tuning of neural populations in human face-selective areas. In this context, caveats possibly leading to erroneous inferences regarding mirror-symmetric coding are exposed, including the need to distinguish angular from Euclidean distances when interpreting multivariate pattern analyses. On this basis, this review argues that evidence from the fusiform face area is best explained by a view-sensitive code reflecting head angular disparity, consistent with a role of this area in face-orientation perception. Finally, the importance is stressed of explicit models relating neural properties to large-scale signals.
The solution of Bessel function dual integral equations by converting to the first kind Fredholm Integral Equation: an extension of Noble’s solution
Authors: Cheshmehkani S , Eskandari-Ghadi M
Published: June 2018

In certain mixed boundary value problems, Hankel integral transforms are applied and subsequently dual integral equations involving Bessel functions have to be solved. In the literature, if possible by employing the Noble’s multiplying factor method, these dual integral equations are usually converted to the second kind Fredholm Integral Equations (FIEs) and solved either analytically or numerically, respectively, for simple or complicated kernels. In this study, the multiplying factor method is extended to convert the dual integral equations both to the first and the second kind FIEs, and the conditions for converting to each kind of FIE are discussed. Furthermore, it is shown that under some simple circumstances, many mixed boundary value problems arising from either elastostatics or elastodynamics can be converted to the well-posed first kind FIE, which may be solved analytically or numerically. Main criteria for well-posedness of FIEs of the first kind in such problems are also presented. Noble’s original method is restricted to some limited conditions, which are extended here for both first and second kind FIEs to cover a wider range of dual integral equations encountered in engineering mixed boundary value problems.
The Protective Value of Discussing Condom Use: A Study of Young Black Men Attending STI Clinics in the Southern United States
Authors: Crosby Richard , Skakoon-Sparling Shayna , Milhausen Robin R. , Sanders Stephanie , Graham Cynthia A. , Yarber William L.
Published: June 2018

Young Black men (YBM) experience disparities in both HIV incidence and incidence of bacterial sexually transmitted infections (STIs); thus, developing efficacious behavioral interventions is an especially critical goal. One potential avenue for intervention involves improving sexual health communications among YBM and their partners, before sex occurs. Such discussions may serve several purposes, including improving condom use and facilitating the negotiation of correct and consistent condom use. The aim of the current study was to determine the STI-protective effects of discussing condom use with sex partners, among medically underserved YBM. A total of 702 YBM were recruited from three STI clinics in the Southern United States. YBM completed a self-interview at baseline and again 6 months later. At 12 months postenrollment, a chart review determined incidents of STIs. The majority of YBM participants (61.1%) had recently discussed condom use with partners before sex. Of the 12 assessed outcomes, 7 were significantly associated with this measure. In each case, a protective effect was observed. In controlled analyses, the 12-month incidence of STIs was significantly ( p = .05) greater among YBM not discussing condoms with sex partners. The results of the current study suggest that, among YBM attending clinics, discussing condom use with sex partners may promote safer sex practices. This behavior was also predictive of lower STI incidence in the ensuing 12 months, suggesting that it may be an ideal intervention target for programs designed to protect YBM against STI acquisition, including HIV.
An Examination of the Evidence-Base of School-Wide Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports Through Two Quality Appraisal Processes
Authors: Mitchell Barbara S. , Hatton Heather , Lewis Timothy J.
Published: June 2018

Thousands of schools across the United States, and worldwide, implement School-Wide Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (SWPBIS). SWPBIS provides a framework whereby teams of educators engage in data-based decision making to select, implement, and monitor a continuum of behavioral supports and build sustainable systems to promote implementation fidelity among school staff. To date, a large body of research supports both the essential practices included in a SWPBIS framework as well as the larger systemic approach. Recently public policy and professional organization guidelines have outlined clear appraisal processes to review the extant literature in an effort to designate interventions as “evidence-based.” This review applied both the What Works Clearinghouse (WWC) and the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) standards to evaluate existing group experimental design studies of SWPBIS. Results identified five unique, group design studies conducted by four separate research teams. Four of the studies met the WWC design standards “without reservations” and findings from three of those studies were characterized as positive. Outcomes from the reviewed studies indicated that when provided with training in components of SWPBIS, school teams met minimal implementation standards. In addition, schools that met implementation criteria also saw positive changes in school climate, staff perceptions, and/or student behaviors. However, application of the CEC standards resulted with a rating of “insufficient evidence” because none of the five studies met all CEC quality indicators. These studies lacked report of implementation fidelity for the SWPBIS training provided, which was the independent variable. Implications for practice and future research are discussed.
An unusual complication after placement of an inferior vena cava filter via right internal jugular vein access
Authors: Nas Hala , Bowe Dedrick , Soubani Ayman O
Published: June 2018

Introduction:

Totally implantable venous access devices are used extensively worldwide in cancer patients for administration of venotoxic agents, blood sampling, and nutrition. Their tip is usually positioned at the junction of superior vena cava and right atrium. Inferior vena cava filters are usually used for deep venous thrombosis in cases where anticoagulation is contraindicated; they can be inserted either via internal jugular or femoral access depending on patient conditions and preference.

Case description:

We are describing here a case of totally implantable venous access device fracture following a right internal jugular approach for inferior vena cava filter placement as the patient had inferior vena cava thrombus below the renal veins, extending into the right common iliac vein prohibiting femoral approach.

Conclusion:

Iatrogenic fracture of totally implantable venous access device is a potential complication of accessing the internal jugular vein for other procedures such as insertion of inferior vena cava filter.
Physiological and Functional Basis of Dopamine Receptors and Their Role in Neurogenesis: Possible Implication for Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Mishra Akanksha , Singh Sonu , Shukla Shubha
Published: June 2018

Dopamine controls various physiological functions in the brain and periphery by acting on its receptors D1, D2, D3, D4, and D5. Dopamine receptors are G protein–coupled receptors involved in the regulation of motor activity and several neurological disorders such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, Parkinson’s disease (PD), Alzheimer’s disease, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Reduction in dopamine content in the nigrostriatal pathway is associated with the development of PD, along with the degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra region. Dopamine receptors directly regulate neurotransmission of other neurotransmitters, release of cyclic adenosine monophosphate, cell proliferation, and differentiation. Here, we provide an update on recent knowledge about the signalling mechanism, mode of action, and the evidence for the physiological and functional basis of dopamine receptors. We also highlight the pivotal role of these receptors in the modulation of neurogenesis, a possible therapeutic target that might help to slow down the process of neurodegeneration.
Organising food differently: Towards a more-than-human ethics of care for the Anthropocene
Authors: Beacham Jonathan
Published: June 2018

In this article, I consider how organisations within ‘Alternative’ Food Networks might help us to enact a more-than-human ethic of care in the Anthropocene. Drawing on the diverse economies framework of J.K. Gibson-Graham (2006a, 2006b) as well as readings in the feminist ethics of care literature, I explore an ethnographic study of three community supported agriculture schemes in the north-west of England. While there has been surprisingly little scholarly work linking food and the Anthropocene, much more has been made of the relationship between the food system and Anthropogenic processes of climate change. The orthodox responses to the problems that climate change may bring about are undergirded by Hobbesian visions and the perceived viability of instrumental, technocratic ‘fixes’ that are, for many reasons, worthy of critique. Broadening our viewpoint, and recognising that the Anthropocene and climate change require different responses, I argue that AFNs can provide a more hopeful perspective in how we might understand our existence within a more-than-human world. Rather than reading AFNs through analytical binaries as either reformist or radical entities merely confronting the ills of the food system, I develop an account that instead understands them as open-ended and tantalisingly different forms of organisation (Stock et al., 2015b) that can play a central role in fostering a more-than-human ethics of care for the Anthropocene.
Exploring the association between depression and shenjing shuairuo in a population representative epidemiological study of Chinese adults in Guangzhou, China
Authors: Hall Brian J. , Chang Kay , Chen Wen , Sou Ka Lon , Latkin Carl , Yeung Albert
Published: June 2018

Traditional mental illness concepts remain prevalent in China. Shenjing shuairuo (i.e., neurasthenia), a depressive-like syndrome less favored in Western psychiatric nosology, has a long tradition of acceptance among Chinese lay people. The concept may be more easily accepted in China due to the culturally informed view of the importance of harmony between mind and body and is consistent with Traditional Chinese Medicine. The goals of this study were to estimate the prevalence of shenjing shuairuo, the overlap between shenjing shuairuo and depression, and whether these two disorders share correlates. Data was obtained from 751 Chinese adults using stratified random sampling. Spatial epidemiological methods were utilized with face-to-face interviews conducted in Guangzhou, China. The Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) and the neurasthenia criteria from ICD-10 measured depression and shenjing shuairuo. The prevalence of depression and shenjing shuairuo were 5.3% and 15.4%, respectively. Participants with depression were nearly six times more likely to have shenjing shuairuo. Women were more likely than men to have comorbid depression and shenjing shuairuo. Poorer health was reported across disorders. Those with shenjing shuairuo were more likely to report medical diagnoses. Longer sleep latency was reported for those with shenjing shuairuo and those with depression reported fewer hours of sleep and lower sleep quality. Those with depression alone reported the poorest sleep. Significant diagnostic overlap and few distinct correlates were observed. Nevertheless, the difference in prevalence and acceptance among non-professionals suggests that shenjing shuairuo is a useful category of distress among Chinese adults in Southern China.
Insights from the infamous: Recovering the social-theoretical first phase of populism studies
Authors: Jones Paul K.
Published: June 2018

While early studies of populism, usually dated from the 1960s, were highly interdisciplinary, contemporary research in this field is dominated by political science and political theory. This current phase of research is narrowly focused on certain forms of political action and remarkably reluctant to pathologize the US case. Social theory plays at most a marginal role. Recent historicizations of this field have failed to recognize the significance of the prior ‘missing first phase’ of populism studies (1940–65) led by key sociological figures among the New York Intellectuals and the Frankfurt School. Social theorization was prominent then and US populism’s contingent vulnerability to demagogic exploitation was a major research focus. This article provides an immanent critical reconstruction of these thinkers’ key social-theoretical insights, building to a schematization of ‘modern demagogy’.
The temporal flows of self-tracking: Checking in, moving on, staying hooked
Authors: Lomborg Stine , Thylstrup Nanna Bonde , Schwartz Julie
Published: June 2018

This article conceptualizes the experience of self-tracking as flow, a central technique, utilized by digital media companies to hook their users. We argue the notion of flow is valuable for understanding both the temporal lock-ins of self-tracking practices in sequences and repetition, and the way self-tracking technologies thrive on data sequences for retaining users and creating viable businesses. To substantiate this, we present a qualitative empirical study of how users experience flow when tracking various aspects of their personal lives. Users find self-tracking technology and the metrics they generate to have much more limited relevance and thus guide their attention elsewhere. If they are hooked, they are so in ways different from those projected by the technology. Users find meaning in their self-tracking in moments of registration, allocution, consultation and conversation, but also problematize their attachment to specific temporal tracking regimes.
The analytic rewards of materializing the effects of actor-networks
Authors: Freeman Melissa
Published: June 2018

Objects, documents, and concepts play a central role in everyday practice but are often overlooked as active agents in the formation of the social world. Actor-Network Theory (ANT) is a sociological method that helps make visible what humans and nonhumans in association do or accomplish. It is an analytical approach that examines how human and nonhuman entities co-construct dynamic and influential networks of associations, and the effects produced as a result of these networks. This paper provides an introduction to ANT, illustrates its application through a case example, and concludes with a description of its analytic rewards.
A Bias-Corrected Estimator of Competitive Balance in Sports Leagues
Authors: Lee Young Hoon , Kim Yongdai , Kim Sara
Published: June 2018

The ratio of the actual standard deviation (ASD) to the idealized standard deviation of win percentages (RSD) is the conventional measure of competitive balance (CB). RSD is designed to control for the effect of season length on the sample standard deviation of win percentages (ASD). Theoretically, the RSD should be greater than 1, but empirical values below 1 have been found in previous studies. This article employs a mathematical statistics approach to evaluate the statistical properties of RSD and ASD. In doing so, this study finds that RSD is constructed by an invalid normalization approach and that ASD is biased. It also presents a bias-corrected standard deviation (BCSD) as a new estimator of the standard deviation of true win probabilities. Results from the simulations confirm the following: (i) ASD is prone to underestimate CB levels when the number of games is small, (ii) the RSD values become unreasonably large when the number of games is large, and (iii) BCSD performs well with respect to mean bias and root mean squared errors. According to empirical analysis of the English Premier League (EPL) and the Korea Baseball Organization (KBO), BCSD shows that the KBO was more competitively balanced than the EPL between 2000 and 2015, while the RSD implies that the two leagues were roughly equal.
The Impact of Contest Dynamics on Ex Post Doping Audits
Authors: Goetsch Andreas , Salzmann Christian
Published: June 2018

In this article, we introduce competition between athletes to the model of ex post doping audits by Goetsch and Salzmann. We determine the doping minimizing storing and retesting strategy for a doping agency in a competitive setting between two athletes. We demonstrate that for the doping agency, there is only one doping minimizing strategy depending on the number of athletes. Even though the athletes’ doping decision is influenced by the contest, counterintuitively, the agency’s strategy is neither influenced by the prize of the contest nor by its balance or any other contest dynamics.
Impact of Tibial Runoff on Outcomes of Endovascular Treatment for Femoropopliteal Atherosclerotic Lesions
Authors: Park Ui Jun , Kim Hyoung Tae , Roh Young-Nam
Published: June 2018

Objectives:

The aim of this study is to investigate the impact of tibial runoff on outcomes of femoropopliteal interventions for atherosclerotic lesions.

Methods:

A retrospective review of 243 endovascular procedures for femoropopliteal atherosclerotic lesions on 243 limbs of 197 patients was performed.

Results:

The distribution rates of good tibial runoff (runoff score <7) and poor tibial runoff (runoff score ≥7) were 37.0% and 63.0%, respectively. In the poor tibial runoff group, the patients were older ( P = .019), and the proportion of male was lower ( P = .014). There was a significantly higher proportion of rest pain or tissue loss ( P < .001), and the prevalence of stroke ( P = .031) and renal insufficiency ( P = .005) was significantly higher in the poor runoff group. After femoropopliteal intervention, the amputation-free survival ( P = .03) and freedom from ischemia ( P = .003) were significantly lower in the poor runoff group. The interventions targeting below-the-knee (BTK) lesions performed concomitantly for critical limb ischemia or tissue loss with poor tibial runoff did not show a significant advantage in terms of freedom from ischemia; however, minor trends of longer lasting freedom from ischemia were observed when BTK intervention was combined.

Conclusion:

The patients with poor runoff showed significantly lower amputation-free survival and freedom from ischemia. In poor tibial runoff limbs with critical limb ischemia or tissue loss, BTK intervention did not demonstrate additional significant beneficial outcomes; however, there was a minor trend of longer lasting freedom from ischemia after concomitant BTK intervention.
Lipohypertrophic Skin Changes in Patients With Diabetes: Visualization by Infrared Images
Authors: Kaltheuner Lars , Kaltheuner Matthias , Heinemann Lutz
Published: June 2018

Background:

Many patients with diabetes on insulin therapy develop lipohypertrophies (LHTs). So far, LHTs are diagnosed by conventional methods (CM; visual inspection, palpation and/or ultrasound). In everyday life, it would be advantageous to have a quick, simple and inexpensive alternative, for example, diagnosing them by obtaining infrared (IR) images.

Methods:

We obtained IR images from 43 subjects (21 patients with type 1 diabetes, conventional subcutaneous insulin therapy and known LHTs, 8 patients with CSII and LHTs, 7 patients without LHTs, and 7 healthy people), all from one specialized diabetes practice. The IR images were taken under standardized conditions with a high-resolution infrared camera (VarioCam® HDx Jenoptic, IR pixel 640 × 480, thermal resolution 0.003K) and compared with LHT diagnoses with CM.

Results:

In 14 of the 29 (48%) patients, CM diagnosed LHTs were “cold spots” in the IR images. The temperature difference to “healthy” skin (without LHTs) was up to 6°C. Of the 14 patients, 11 also showed such spots, without findings with CM. Four patients did not show clearly identifiable cold spots as LHT and 2 patients showed no changes in the IR images. The remaining 9 patients did not show clearly identifiable cold spots as LHT, but the diagnosis with CM was also ambiguous.

Conclusions:

The results of this small (pilot) study do not clearly support the value of IR images for the diagnosis of LHTs, but they do not refute this approach. Diagnosis of LHT might be hampered due to the existence of different types of LHTs. Usage of IR images can apparently detect LHTs before they can be diagnosed with CM. Further targeted investigations are required to make statements about the usability of this method.
Streptococcus pyogenes and invasive central nervous system infection
Authors: Randhawa Ekamjeet , Woytanowski John , Sibliss Kedesha , Sheffer Ian
Published: June 2018

Streptococcus pyogenes is a Gram-positive beta-hemolytic bacteria, also known as group A streptococci, that causes a range of infections. The most common presentation is acute pharyngitis; however, it is also implicated in skin and soft tissue infections, and less commonly bacteremia, osteomyelitis, pneumonia, otitis media and sinusitis. Group A streptococci infections of the central nervous system are exceedingly rare in the antibiotic era. The mechanism of infection is typically contiguous spread from existing infection or via direct inoculation. We present a case of an 81-year-old female with a past medical history of dementia, transient ischemic attacks, type 2 diabetes mellitus, hypertension, descending thoracic aortic aneurysm status post-stent placement in 2008, hepatitis C and hyperlipidemia who initially presented after being found unresponsive at home. Her initial symptoms were primarily of altered mentation and on evaluation was found to be in septic shock with suspicion of meningoencephalitis. Her initial workup included a computed tomography of head which was remarkable for left and right mastoid effusions. A lumbar puncture was performed with cloudy purulent fluid, an elevated white blood cell count, low glucose and elevated protein. The patient was initially started on broad spectrum coverage and soon had 4/4 blood cultures and cerebrospinal fluid cultures growing Streptococcus pyogenes. Empiric vancomycin, ceftriaxone and ampicillin were administered but switched to penicillin G in the setting of elevated total bilirubin and septic shock with multi-organ failure and narrowed to ampicillin–sulbactam based on sensitivities. Unfortunately, the patient deteriorated further due to septic shock and multi-organ failure and later died in the medical intensive care unit.
A Longitudinal Study Examining the Change in Functional Independence Over Time in Elderly Individuals With a Functioning Kidney Transplant
Authors: Yau Kevin , Farragher Janine F. , Kim S. Joseph , Famure Olusegun , Jassal Sarbjit V.
Published: June 2018

Background:

Functional disability is defined as the need for assistance with self-care tasks.

Objective:

To document changes in functional status over time among older prevalent renal transplant recipients.

Design:

Single center, prospective, follow-up study.

Setting:

Single center, tertiary care transplant center.

Patients:

Patients, with a functioning kidney transplant, aged 65 years or older who underwent assessment of functional status approximately 12 months previously.

Measurements:

Validated tools used included Barthel Index, the Lawton-Brody Scale of Instrumental Activities of Daily Living, the Timed Up and Go test, the Veterans Specific Activity Questionnaire, the Mini-Cog, and dynamometer handgrip strength.

Methods:

Outpatient assessment by a trained observer.

Results:

Of the 82 patients previously studied, 64 (78%) patients participated in the follow-up study (mean age 70.5 ± 4.4 years, 58% male, 55% diabetic). Among those completing functional status measures, 32 (50%) had functional disability at baseline. Over the 1-year period, 11 (17%) of these patients experienced progressive functional decline, 6 (9%) exhibited no change, and 15 (23%) had functional recovery. Eleven patients (17%) initially independent, developed new-onset disability. One of the strongest predictors of progressive functional decline was having 1 or more falls in the previous year.

Limitations:

Assessments were performed only on 2 occasions separated by approximately 1 year.

Conclusions:

Fluctuations in disability states are common among older adults living with renal transplants. Episodes of functional disability may place individuals at higher risk of persistent and/or progressive disability.
Unusual Hybrid Closure of Ventricular Septal Defects
Authors: Krasemann Thomas , van Beynum Ingrid , van de Woestijne Pieter
Published: June 2018

A planned combined perventricular and “open heart” surgical closure of multiple ventricular septal defects had to be modified intraoperatively due to a technical fault disabling echocardiographic guidance. Through an atriotomy, device closure of a muscular defect and patch closure of a perimembranous ventricular septal defect were performed. In unusual situations, collaboration of the surgical and interventional team is crucial.
Developing a Strategy for the Improvement in Patient Experience in a Canadian Academic Department of Surgery
Authors: Luo Lindy , Forster Alan J , Gartke Kathleen , Trickett John , Rubens Fraser D
Published: June 2018

Patient experience (PE) is recognized as a key component in the quality of health-care delivery. Public reporting of hospital, division, and physician-specific PE results has added to the momentum of adopting strategies to augment this metric of care. The Ottawa Hospital embarked on a journey to improve PE as a pillar of its quality improvement plan. This article demonstrates the efforts of a single surgery department from one large urban center to improve in-hospital PE in the rapidly changing environment of medicine and surgery. A multidisciplinary group within the department and a focus group of previous surgical inpatients were organized to address immediate challenges related to inpatient PE issues. We identified concrete strategies to optimize pain control, perceptions of patient respect and dignity, perceptions of surgeon availability, discharge medication understanding, and overall experience. Also, we identified a need in our department for timely patient feedback, improved communication styles in our staff and trainees, and an internal curriculum offering additional training for our staff and residents. We anticipate that the current results would be of significant interest to other departments wishing to optimize their PE profile as part of the ongoing quality improvement process at hospitals across North America.
Female sexual dysfunction in systemic sclerosis: The role of endothelial growth factor and endostatin
Authors: Gigante Antonietta , Navarini Luca , Margiotta Domenico , Barbano Biagio , Afeltra Antonella , Rosato Edoardo
Published: June 2018

Introduction:

Since female sexual dysfunction in systemic sclerosis women is multifactorial, we can assume that vascular damage may play a role in pathogenesis. The aim of the study was to evaluate the clitoral blood flow, by Echo color Doppler, and to correlate it whit serum levels of vascular endothelial growth factor and endostatin.

Methods:

A total of 15 systemic sclerosis women and 10 healthy controls matched for sex and age were enrolled in this study. Serum VEGF165 and endostatin levels were determined in systemic sclerosis patients by commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit. Clitoral blood flow was measured by Doppler indices of clitoral artery: pulsatile index, resistive index, and systolic/diastolic ratio were measured. Sexual dysfunction was assessed by Female Sexual Function Index.

Results:

Vascular endothelial growth factor (pg/mL) and endostatin (ng/mL) median values were significantly higher in systemic sclerosis women than healthy controls. Resistive index and systolic/diastolic ratio median values were significantly higher in systemic sclerosis women than healthy controls. Negative correlation exists between serum levels of vascular endothelial growth factor and resistive index (r = −0.55, p < 0.05). Positive correlation was observed between serum levels of endostatin and resistive index (r = 0.70, p < 0.01) and systolic/diastolic ratio (r = 0.77, p < 0.01).

Discussion:

We can suppose that clitoral blood flow in systemic sclerosis women is reduced not only for macro- and microvascular damage but also for impaired angiogenesis.
A normal diffusing capacity of the lungs for carbon monoxide is rare in incidental pulmonary arterial hypertension in systemic sclerosis: Data from the Pulmonary Hypertension Assessment and Recognition of Outcomes in Scleroderma cohort
Authors: Overbury Rebecca S , Murtaugh Maureen A , Frech Tracy M , Steen Virginia D
Published: June 2018

Objective:

Our purpose was to determine the frequency of normal diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide defined as ⩾70% predicted, in those diagnosed with pulmonary arterial hypertension in the Pulmonary Hypertension Assessment and Recognition of Outcomes in Scleroderma cohort. We compared those with normal diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide to those with reduced diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide <70% in order to better clarify the role of pulmonary function testing as a screening test for pulmonary arterial hypertension and to better understand this population.

Methods:

Entry criteria included a right heart catheterization with mean pulmonary artery pressure ⩾25 mm Hg and pulmonary capillary wedge pressure ⩽15 mm Hg. Demographics, echocardiogram variables, B-type natriuretic peptide levels, right heart catheterization findings, and survival were described for both groups.

Results:

Of (n = 202), 11 (5.4%) had a diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide of ⩾70% versus 191 (94.6%) who had a diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide <70%. There were no identified statistical differences between the groups. Left atrium size was 4.1 cm in the normal diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide patients compared to 3.7 cm in the low diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide group but did not reach statistical significance. There were no statistically significant differences in survival. On repeat testing, seven patients subsequently developed a diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide <70%.

Conclusion:

Pulmonary Hypertension Assessment and Recognition of Outcomes in Scleroderma data suggest that it is very rare for a patient to develop pulmonary arterial hypertension with a preserved diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide. The data support the importance of obtaining diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide and that a patient with a normal diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide while suspected to have systemic sclerosis-pulmonary arterial hypertension should be considered critically. Diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide >70% was present in too few patients to find significant differences in B-type natriuretic peptide and atrium size. Future research should seek to confirm abnormal B-type natriuretic peptide, increased left atrium size, and other evidence of myocardial involvement on diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide.
Saturday Night Retinopathy After Intranasal Heroin
Authors: Nguyen Huy V. , North Victoria S. , Oellers Patrick , Husain Deeba
Published: June 2018

Purpose:

To describe the clinical features of a case of Saturday night retinopathy (SNR) following intranasal heroin use.

Methods:

Ophthalmological examination, including optical coherence tomography and fluorescein angiogram, was performed. Serial images were obtained at follow-up visits at 1 week and 1 month.

Results:

The visual acuity was no light perception vision and there was an afferent pupillary defect in the affected eye. There was also evidence of complete ophthalmoplegia, globe proptosis, conjunctival chemosis, and corneal epitheliopathy and funduscopic evidence of ophthalmic artery occlusion. Follow-up imaging showed choroidal and retinal nonperfusion. Magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated edematous extraocular muscles and a bilateral hippocampal ischemia.

Conclusions:

This is the first case of SNR following intranasal heroin use and opioid-associated hippocampal ischemia. As physicians witness the impacts of the country’s opioid epidemic, it is important to recognize SNR as a cause of acute visual loss.
Gender differences in bronchiectasis: a real issue?
Authors: Vidaillac Celine , Yong Valerie F.L. , Jaggi Tavleen K. , Soh ­ Min-Min , Chotirmall Sanjay H.
Published: June 2018

Gender differences in chronic respiratory disease, including cystic fibrosis and non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis are clinically apparent and of increasing importance. Differences in disease prevalence, severity and outcome are all described, however, the precise cause of the gender dichotomy and their associated underlying mechanisms have been poorly characterised. A lack of dedicated clinical and epidemiological research focused in this area has led to a paucity of data and therefore a lack of understanding of its key drivers. Diagnosis, disease pathogenesis and treatment response are all complex but important aspects of bronchiectasis with an evident gender bias. Broadening our understanding of the interplay between microbiology, host physiology and the environment in the context of chronic lung diseases, such as bronchiectasis, is critical to unravelling mechanisms driving the observed gender differences. In this review, epidemiological, biological and environmental evidence related to gender in bronchiectasis is summarised. This illustrates gender differences as a “real issue” with the objective of mapping out a future framework upon which a gender-tailored medical approach may be incorporated into the diagnosis, monitoring and treatment of bronchiectasis.

Key points

CF and non-CF bronchiectasis are complex, multifactorial chronic pulmonary diseases with gender-specific differences in their prevalence, clinical presentation and disease severity.

Microbiology and host physiology (immune and inflammatory responses) are essential aspects of bronchiectasis that are influenced by gender.

Sex steroid hormones vary in type, fluctuating pattern and concentration throughout life and between the genders with a potential central role in bronchiectasis-related gender differences.

Gender-focused clinical and/or therapeutic intervention has the potential to narrow the observed gender gap occurring in bronchiectasis-related lung disease.

Educational aims

To summarise the existing knowledge base of gender-related differences in CF and non-CF bronchiectasis.

To highlight key areas of importance in the diagnosis, monitoring and treatment of bronchiectasis that is amenable to clinical and/or pharmacological intervention to narrow the existing “gender gap”.
The clinical utility of the IRAC component of the Framework for Routine Outcome Measurement in Liaison Psychiatry (FROM-LP)
Authors: Guest Caroline , Crockett Stephen , Little Patrick , Patel Anish
Published: June 2018

Aims and method

The clinical utility of the multidimensional Framework for Routine Outcome Measurement in Liaison Psychiatry (FROM-LP) has not previously been examined. We sought to establish whether referral accuracy and ability to achieve the reason(s) for referral to our liaison service improved after incorporating the Identify and Rate the Aim of the Contact (IRAC) scale of this tool into our referral process. We carried out a retrospective analysis of electronic case notes of all appropriate referrals to the team before and after this adaption.

Results

Accuracy of referrals to our team improved from 73.8 to 93.7% following intervention. Referral requests that were fully achieved improved from 57.4 to 77.8%, and referral requests that were not achieved decreased from 26.2 to 6.4%.

Clinical implications

The IRAC component of the FROM-LP measures what it was developed for, and thus has clinical utility supporting its widespread adoption across liaison services in the National Health Service.

Declaration of interest

None.
Aggression and Agitation in Dementia
Authors: Wolf M. Uri , Goldberg Yael , Freedman Morris
Published: June 2018

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This article reviews the treatment of aggression and agitation in dementia. Both nonpharmacologic and pharmacologic approaches to responsive behaviors are discussed. Practical treatment strategies are applied to common behavioral symptoms.

RECENT FINDINGS

Aggressive and agitated behavior is common in dementia. Behavioral symptoms lead to reduced quality of life and distress for both patients and caregivers. They can also lead to poor outcomes and are associated with significant financial implications for the individual and health care system. A wide range of difficult behaviors exists, with limited evidence for deciding on treatment. Clinicians should integrate the available evidence with practical and commonsense strategies to target these difficult-to-treat behaviors.

Treating aggression and agitation in dementia is challenging. Viewing behaviors as a response to either internal or external stimuli can help guide treatment. Treatment should emphasize nonpharmacologic approaches as an initial step, using practical and commonsense strategies. Caregivers and family should be actively involved in the planning and implementation of behavioral plans. It is essential to minimize both medical and nonmedical factors that may be contributing to behaviors. When pharmacologic options are required, it is important to choose medications that will target specific behavioral goals, having both practical consideration and the best evidence in mind.
Assessment and Management of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
Authors: Ellis Janet , Zaretsky Ari
Published: June 2018

PURPOSE

The goal of this article is to increase clinicians’ understanding of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and improve skills in assessing risk for and diagnosing PTSD. The importance and sequelae of lifetime trauma burden are discussed, with reference to trends in prevention, early intervention, and treatment.

RECENT FINDINGS

PTSD has different clinical phenotypes, which are reflected in the changes in Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) criteria. PTSD is almost always complicated by comorbidity. Treatment requires a multimodal approach, usually including medication, different therapeutic techniques, and management of comorbidity. Interest is growing in the neurobiology of childhood survivors of trauma, intergenerational transmission of trauma, and long-term impact of trauma on physical health. Mitigation of the risk of PTSD pretrauma in the military and first responders is gaining momentum, given concerns about the cost and disability associated with PTSD. Interest is also growing in screening for PTSD in medical populations, with evidence of improved clinical outcomes. Preliminary research supports the treatment of PTSD with repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation.

PTSD is a trauma-related disorder with features of fear and negative thinking about the trauma and the future. Untreated, it leads to ongoing disruption of life due to avoidance, impaired vocational and social functioning, and other symptoms, depending on the phenotype. Despite a theoretical understanding of underlying mechanisms, PTSD remains challenging to treat, although evidence exists for benefit of pharmacologic agents and trauma-focused therapies. A need still remains for treatments that are more effective and efficient, with faster onset.
META-pipe Authorization service
Authors: Raknes Inge Alexander , Bongo Lars Ailo
Published: June 2018

We describe the design, implementation, and use of the META-pipe Authorization service. META-pipe is a complete workflow for the analysis of marine metagenomics data. We will provide META-pipe as a web based data analysis service for ELIXIR users. We have integrated our Authorization service with the ELIXIR Authorization and Authentication Infrastructure (AAI) that allows single sign-on to services across the ELIXIR infrastructure. We use the Authorization service to authorize access to data on the META-pipe storage system and jobs in the META-pipe job queue. Our Authorization server was among the first SAML2 service providers  that integrated with ELIXIR AAI. The code is open source at: https://gitlab.com/uit-sfb/AuthService2.
COPD, metabolic syndrome, respiratory symptoms, and functional incapacity in smokers, ex-smokers, and never-smokers aged 40-59 in Almaty, Kazakhstan: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Zhussupov Baurzhan , Sharman Almaz , Sharman Dana
Published: June 2018

Background: No study has reported the relationship between smoking status with chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (COPD) and metabolic syndrome (MetS) in Kazakhstan. The aim of this study was to assess the associations between health outcomes, including COPD, MetS, respiratory symptoms, and functional incapacity, with the cigarette smoking status.

Methods: The cross-sectional study recruited 500 smokers, 200 ex-smokers, and 200 never-smokers aged 40-59 in Almaty, Kazakhstan. Questions assessed socio-demographic, clinical characteristics, and smoking behavior. Blood glucose and lipid profiles were determined after overnight fasting. COPD was defined according to the GOLD 2017 statement. Respiratory symptoms and functional incapacity were assessed by the COPD Assessment Test (CAT) and 6-min walk test (6MWT), respectively. Logistic regression models were used to assess the associations.

Results: The prevalence of COPD among smokers, ex-smokers and never-smokers were 5.5%, 3.0% and 3.0%, respectively. Respiratory symptoms based on CAT were more prevalent among smokers (42.8%) as compared to ex-smokers (42.8% vs 17.0%; aOR 3.43, 95% CI 2.25–5.23) and never-smokers (42.8% vs 12.5%; aOR 5.44, 95% CI 3.42–8.65). Current smokers were more likely to walk less than 450 meters during 6MWT as compared to never-smokers (16.5% vs 5.0%; aOR 3.72, 95% CI 1.86–7.44). No significant association was found between the smoking status with COPD and MetS. 

Conclusions: Respiratory symptoms are common among the current smokers, even if most of them had preserved pulmonary function defined by spirometry.
Prevalence of intestinal parasites among food handlers attending public health laboratories in Khartoum State, Sudan
Authors: Gamar Tarig A. , Musa Hassan H. , Altayb Hisham N. , Kabbashi Mogeeb , Alsayed Yassen , Abakar Adam D.
Published: June 2018

Background:  Infections by intestinal pathogens especially protozoans and helminths are considered to pose a real health problem, particularly in the tropics.  They cause considerable morbidity and mortality rates in developing countries. The high prevalence of these infections is closely correlated with poverty, poor environmental hygiene, and impoverished health services. This study aimed to detect prevalence and frequency of parasitic infections among food handlers in Khartoum Sudan. 

Methods: Three hundred and fifty Food-handlers, attending public health laboratories in Khartoum, Sudan, for an annual medical check-up, were screened for intestinal parasites by four laboratory techniques viz. direct faecal examination, formal-ether concentration, Baermann technique and agar culture method.

Results: The infection rate was 23.7% by Formol-Ether Concentration technique, followed by direct saline stool preparation (7.1%). Out of 83 positive samples the infection rate among different nationalities was as follows: Sudanese 68 (81.9%), Ethiopians 13 (15.7%), Syrians 2 (2.4%) and Egyptians 0 (0%). Intestinal parasites were more prevalent among males (73; 25.1%) than female food handlers (10; 16.9%). Three protozoans, nematodes, two tap worms and one trematode worm were detected among infected population: their frequency were as follows: Entamoeba histolytica (7.4%), Entamoeba coli (6.86%), Giardia lamblia (6%), Schistosoma mansoni (1.40%), Necator americanus (1.43%), Hymenolepis nana (0.68%), Strongyloides stercoralis (0.68%), Taenia saginata (0.57%), Ascaris lumbricoides (0.57%) and Trichostrongylus species (0.29%).

Conclusion: The overall prevalence of protozoan infections among food handler in Khartoum state, Sudan was 20.26% while the helminthic infections was 5.97%. Formol-ether concentration technique is better for detection of intestinal parasites than the direct faecal smear technique. Likewise, Barmann’s technique confirms detection of nematodes worms especially hookworms.
Improved Technique for Retrieval of Temperature and Humidity from Neutral Atmospheric Refractivity Profiles
Authors: Kamsali Nagaraja Deveerappa Jagadheesha
Published: June 2018

This paper discusses some improvements to a technique for retrieving temperature and humidity from neutral atmospheric refractivities. A technique previously developed used auxiliary information in the form of surface temperature and pressure along with neutral atmospheric refractivity profiles in the troposphere to retrieve temperature and humidity profiles. The height at which water vapor is presumed to be negligible was based on criteria that most of the times it was around ~ 10 km altitude. A new set of criteria are developed wherein it is shown that it is possible to bring this height further down whenever troposphere is dry at altitudes below
Experimental Studies of UV Irradiation Induced Changes in Optical, Mechanical and Microstructural Properties of PVA/Modified Cellulose Composite
Authors: R F Bhajantri Sunil G Rathod
Published: June 2018

Poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA)/modified Cellulose composite films with 85:15 wt.% were prepared by solution casting method and subjected to UV irradiation for different intervals of time. The UV irradiation induced modifications in optical, mechanical and morphological properties were studied. The FTIR results confirm the chemical interaction between PVA and Cellulose. The optical absorption also supports the formation of crosslinked network in the polymer composite. The XRD result shows an increase in the amorphousness with increase in UV irradiation time. The Young’s modulus (YM), tensile strength (TS), stiffness and percentage (%) elongation at break (% EB) of the composite films increase with increase in UV irradiation time. The Scanning Electron microscope (SEM)    images    confirm the
Fundamentals of Environmental Studies
Authors: M Basu
Published: June 2018

Man owes all his achievements to the congenial environment he had on this Earth. With his superior intellect, by virtue of his brain capacity, he has utilized the resources available in nature for his needs. Though the resources were bountiful, we have now reached a state where one finds scarcity of natural resources due to overexploitation. It is high time that we start thinking about sustainability. In this context, the authors of this book have done an excellent job of depicting the current environmental issues in a systematic manner in ten well-written chapters. The first feeling one gets after reading this book is that the authors are truly passionate about the content of the book. As they have rightly mentioned in the preface, the main objective of this book seems to be to enlighten and enthuse the young readers to strive for a better environment.