bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hemostasis and Bone Regeneration Using Chitosan/Gelatin-BCP Bi-layer Composite Material
Authors: Padalhin Andrew R. , Lee Byong-Taek
Published: August 2018

The aim of the study was to determine the hemostatic activity of a composite bi-layered topical hemostat composed of electrospun gelatin loaded with bi-phasic calcium phosphate and chitosan layer and its effect on bone formation. Morphology of the composite hemostat and its individual components were observed using scanning electron microscopy. In vitro biocompatibility of the topical hemostat tested using preosteoblasts cells (MC3t3-E1) showed no adverse toxicity. Confocal microscopy of seeded cells showed good cell adhesion while 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay indicated 15% increased cell proliferation at the end of 1 week culture period. The material’s efficiency as a hemostatic agent was tested by testing blood adsorption capacity and in vivo bone bleeding models. Blood absorption indicates that test sample measuring 14.14 mm3 becomes fully saturated within 5 minutes of blood contact. Bone bleeding was induced on the frontal plates of rat skulls and samples were applied as either removable topical hemostat or actual degradable hemostat. The effect of the bi-layered hemostat on bone formation was determined through analysis of micro-computed tomography (microCT) and observation of histological sections of extracted bone tissue samples. Results indicate that the bi-layer hemostat was able to halt bleeding within 3 minutes of application on the bleeding site and significantly enhanced bone regeneration. Using the bi-layer material as a degradable hemostat also drastically improved bone regeneration of the 3 mm defect.
Occurrence and predictors of metaplastic atrophic gastritis in a nation-wide consecutive endoscopic population presenting with upper gastrointestinal symptoms
Authors: Lahner Edith , Carabotti Marilia , Esposito Gianluca , Hassan Cesare , Zullo Angelo , Annibale Bruno
Published: August 2018

Objectives

The frequency of metaplastic atrophic gastritis in noninvestigated dyspepsia and its associated symptoms pattern are not known. This study aimed to assess the occurrence and clinical predictors of metaplastic atrophic gastritis in a consecutive endoscopic population presenting with upper gastrointestinal symptoms.

Patients and methods

A post-hoc cross-sectional study was carried out on endoscopic-histological data from 668 patients (64% women, age: 58 years) with upper gastrointestinal symptoms obtained during a multicenter study. Patients with dyspeptic (46%), reflux-like symptoms (22%), and both (32%) as indications for gastroscopy were included. Gastroscopy with biopsies (Sydney System) was performed. Clinical data and symptoms were collected using a structured questionnaire.

Results

Metaplastic atrophic gastritis was detected in 201 (30.1%) patients: 22.3% antrum-restricted, 4.5% corpus-restricted, and 3.3% extensive. Postprandial fullness was more frequent in patients with metaplastic atrophic gastritis compared with those without metaplastic atrophic gastritis (29.8 vs. 18.8%, P=0.002); epigastric pain/burning, early satiety, and reflux symptoms occurred similarly in both groups. At multivariate logistic regression, metaplastic atrophic gastritis (any site) was associated with age older than 55 years [odds ratio (OR): 1.86, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.26–2.73], Helicobacter pylori (OR: 1.66, 95% CI: 1.1–2.39), postprandial fullness (OR: 1.62, 95% CI: 1.03–2.54), and smoking (OR: 1.53, 95% CI: 1.02–2.31). Corpus-restricted atrophic gastritis was associated with postprandial fullness (OR: 4.16, 95% CI: 1.79–9.63) and NSAIDs (OR: 2.98, 95% CI: 1.01–8.88), extensive and antrum-restricted atrophic gastritis was associated with age older than 55 (OR 3.6, 95% CI: 1.20–12.67 and OR: 1.63, 95% CI: 1.06–2.49).

Conclusion

Metaplastic atrophic gastritis, a preneoplastic condition, may be found in about one of three patients undergoing endoscopy for upper gastrointestinal symptoms, and clinical predictors are age older than 55 years, smoking, H. pylori infection, and postprandial fullness, especially for corpus-restricted metaplastic atrophic gastritis. An accurate pre-endoscopic characterization of patients with upper gastrointestinal symptoms with easily achievable clinical information may help to better address an endoscopic investigation.
Food immunotherapy for children with food allergies: state of the art and science
Authors: Anagnostou Katherine
Published: August 2018

Purpose of review

This review examines the current literature and provides insight into the role of food immunotherapy in the management of food-allergic children. Key food immunotherapy trials, benefits, and risks of the intervention, as well as areas requiring further study are all discussed.

Recent findings

Research studies have reported encouraging results regarding the efficacy of food immunotherapy in desensitizing food-allergic patients with an acceptable safety profile and a documented improvement in quality of life. The role of biologics and long-term effects of food immunotherapy are still under investigation.

The burden of food allergy is significant, multifaceted, and well documented. Food immunotherapy is a novel treatment option and an exciting area of research that has seen tremendous progress over the last decade, presenting encouraging results for the treatment of children with food allergies.
Appearance/Image- and Performance-Enhancing Drug Users
Authors: Lusetti Monia , Licata Manuela , Silingardi Enrico , Bonsignore Alessandro , Palmiere Cristian
Published: August 2018

Image- and performance-enhancing drugs include a wide range of substances used to promote physical changes to enhance appearance. Anabolic androgen steroids are the most widely used image- and performance-enhancing drugs along with a wide variety of additional substances. The aim of this study was to identify the pathological changes pertaining to the cardiovascular system possibly involved in the death and characterize the substances associated with steroid use and their possible role in the death. A series of deaths involving image- and performance-enhancing drug users were selected. Nandrolone and testosterone were the most frequently identified steroids. The most commonly illegal drugs found were tetrahydrocannabinol, cocaine, and methadone. Antidepressants, opioids, benzodiazepines, and barbiturates were also found. These findings highlight that results obtained from postmortem investigations should be meticulously evaluated to understand the weight that each identified substance may have played in the death process and exclude any alternative causes of death.
Immunohistochemical Pitfalls in Genitourinary Pathology: 2018 Update
Authors: Cox Roni M. , Magi-Galluzzi Cristina , McKenney Jesse K.
Published: August 2018

Immunohistochemistry may be a very useful adjunct to morphologic diagnosis in many areas of surgical pathology, including genitourinary pathology. In this review, we address common diagnostic dilemmas where immunophenotypic analysis may be utilized and we highlight pitfalls specific to each scenario. For prostate, we review the diagnosis of limited prostatic adenocarcinoma and the distinction of high-grade prostatic adenocarcinoma from urothelial carcinoma. We also cover markers of urothelial lineage in the diagnosis of metastatic carcinoma of unknown primary site. In the kidney, distinction of poorly differentiated renal cell carcinoma from urothelial carcinoma and epithelioid angiomyolipoma, adjuncts to the recognition of hereditary renal neoplasia, and the diagnosis of metastatic renal cell carcinoma are discussed. Finally, for testis we address distinction of germ cell tumors from sex cord-stromal tumors, as well as the diagnosis of metastatic germ cell tumors.
Salvaging the Unavoidable: A Review of Complications in Pediatric Tissue Expansion
Authors: Gosain Arun K. , Turin Sergey Y. , Chim Harvey , LoGiudice John A.
Published: August 2018

Background:

Tissue expansion, while a mainstay of reconstruction for pediatric cutaneous lesions, has significant complication rates. The authors review the complications in a single-surgeon series of tissue expansion to identify risk factors for complications and guide subsequent therapy so that reconstructive goals in patients can be met irrespective of intervening complications.

Methods:

A retrospective chart review was conducted of all pediatric patients who underwent tissue expansion performed by the senior author (A.K.G.) over a 12-year period. In total, 282 expanders were placed in 94 patients.

Results:

A total of 65 complications occurred in 39 of 94 patients (41.5 percent), involving 65 of the 282 expanders (23.0 percent) placed. Major complications that required expander removal included exposure (n = 11), rupture (n = 15), and migration (n = 11). The most frequent minor complications, which did not require immediate expander removal, included migration (n = 13) and port malfunction (n = 9). The majority of expanders were placed in the scalp (n = 114), followed by the torso (n = 100), face and neck (n = 52), and the extremities (n = 16). Serial expansion beyond the second round resulted in a marked increase in complications. Despite complications, tissue expansion in the majority of patients could be salvaged, and a satisfactory outcome was achieved.

Conclusions:

Families must be made aware that approximately one-third of patients may have a complication requiring additional surgery or modification of the initial reconstructive plan. However, these complications need not preclude attainment of reconstructive goals.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE:

Therapeutic, IV.
Transmasseteric Anterior Parotid Approach for Treatment of Mandibular Subcondylar Fractures
Authors: Qian Yemei , Wang Weihong , Xu Biao , Zou ZhiRong , Yang Chun , Shao Shenjie
Published: August 2018

This study demonstrated the application of transmasseteric anterior parotid approach for open reduction of mandibular subcondylar fractures depending on the basis of the anatomical study of the temporomandibular joint and parotid gland area. The anatomical study was performed on 5 Chinese adult cadavers fixed by 10% formalin. The temporomandibular joints and parotid regions were studied. In the clinical study, 26 patients with mandibular subcondylar fractures were recruited between July 2014 and December 2017. All 26 patients with mandibular subcondylar fractures received satisfactory occlusions and normal mouth opening: no postoperative facial paralysis occurred in these patients. It is crucial to know the anatomy of both temporomandibular joint and parotid region for reducing significantly the surgical trauma and complications. Transmasseteric anterior parotid approach is a feasible approach for the surgical treatment of the mandibular subcondylar fractures. This method can provide adequate exposure, minimal facial nerve injury, open reduction easily, and inconspicuous scarring.
Autologous Mesenchymal Stromal Cells Prevent Transfusion-elicited Sensitization and Upregulate Transitional and Regulatory B Cells
Authors: Zhang Zijian , Wilson Nancy A. , Chinnadurai Raghavan , Panzer Sarah E. , Redfield Robert R. , Reese Shannon R. , Galipeau Jacques , Djamali Arjang
Published: August 2018

Background

We hypothesized that immunomodulatory properties of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSC) may be considered for desensitization.

Methods

Autologous or allogeneic bone marrow derived MSC were infused via tail vein at 0.5 M (0.5 × 106), 1 M, or 2 M cells/dose on days −2, 3, 6, 9, 12 (prevention) or 14, 17, 20, 23, 26 (treatment) relative to transfusion in a Brown Norway to Lewis rat model (10 groups total, n = 6 per group).

Results

At 4 weeks, pooled analyses demonstrated that autologous and allogeneic MSC were equally effective in reducing IgG1 and IgG2a de novo donor-specific antibody (dnDSA, P < 0.001). Dose-response studies indicated that moderate-dose MSC (5 M total) was most effective in reducing IgG1, IgG2a, and IgG2c dnDSA (P ≤ 0.01). Time course studies determined that preventive and treatment strategies were equally effective in reducing IgG1 and IgG2a dnDSA (P ≤ 0.01). However, individual group analyses determined that moderate-dose (5 M) treatment with autologous MSC was most effective in reducing IgG1, IgG2a, and IgG2c dnDSA (P ≤ 0.01). In this group, dnDSA decreased after 1 week of treatment; regulatory B cells increased in the spleen and peripheral blood mononuclear cells; and transitional B cells increased in the spleen, peripheral blood mononuclear cells, and bone marrow (P < 0.05 for all).

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that autologous MSC prevent transfusion-elicited sensitization and upregulate transitional, and regulatory B cells. Additional studies are needed to determine the biological relevance of these changes after kidney transplantation.
Polymer brushes immersed in solvent molecules at thermal equilibrium: A theoretical approach
Authors: Edwards Mike
Published: August 2018

By means of density functional theory (DFT), influence of solvent molecules on polymer brushes is investigated. Osmotic pressure of solvent molecules gives rise to a stronger stretching of the brush chains in perpendicular direction. This suggests that the osmotic pressure of solvent molecules is a driving force in increasing thickness of brush layer.
Wave-like activity patterns in the neuropil of striatal cholinergic interneurons in freely moving mice represent their collective spiking dynamics
Authors: Rehani Rotem , Atamna Yara , Tiroshi Lior , Chiu Wei-Hua , Aceves Buendía José de Jesús , Martins Gabriela J. , Jacobson Gilad A. , Goldberg Joshua A.
Published: August 2018

Cholinergic interneurons (CINs) are believed to form synchronous cell assemblies that modulate the striatal microcircuitry and possibly orchestrate local dopamine release. We expressed GCaMP6s, a genetically encoded calcium indicator (GECIs), selectively in CINs, and used microendoscopes to visualize the putative CIN assemblies in the dorsal striatum of freely moving mice. The GECI fluorescence signal from the dorsal striatum was composed of signals from individual CIN somata that were engulfed by a widespread fluorescent neuropil. Bouts of synchronous activation of the cholinergic neuropil revealed traveling-wave-like patterns of activity that preceded the signal from individual somata. To investigate the nature of the neuropil signal and why it precedes the somatic signal, we target-patched GECI-expressing CINs in acute striatal slices in conjunction with multiphoton imaging or wide-field imaging that emulates the microendoscopes’ specifications. The ability to detect fluorescent transients associated with individual action potential was constrained by the long decay constant of GECIs (relative to common inorganic dyes) to slowly firing (< 2 spikes/s) CINs. The microendoscopes’ resolving power and sampling rate further diminished this ability. Additionally, we found that only back-propagating action potentials but not synchronous optogenetic activation of thalamic inputs elicited observable calcium transients in CIN dendrites. Our data suggest that only bursts of CIN activity (but not their tonic firing) are visible using endoscopic imaging, and that the spatiotemporal neuropil patterns are a physiological measure of the collective recurrent CIN network spiking activity.

Significance Statement

Cholinergic interneurons (CINs) are key modulators of the striatal microcircuitry that are necessary for assigning action value and behavioral flexibility. We present a first endoscopic imaging study of multiple molecularly identified CINs in freely moving mice. We reveal the presence of traveling-wave-like activity in the CIN neuropil. We then use ex vivo electrophysiological and imaging techniques to show that the neuropil signal is the integrated fluorescence arising from the axo-dendritic arbors of CINs dispersed throughout the striatum. We conclude that the neuropil signal acts as a mean-field readout of the striatal CIN network activity.
Counterbalancing the time-dependence effect on the human mitochondrial DNA molecular clock
Authors: Cabrera Vicente M.
Published: August 2018

We propose a new method for estimating the coalescent age of phylogenetically related sequences that takes into account the observed time dependency of molecular rate estimates. Applying this method to human mitochondrial DNA data we have obtained significantly older ages for the main events of human evolution than in previous estimates. These ages are in close agreement with the most recent archaeological and paleontological records.
Turnaround of struggling plant of DJSL Limited: capital investment or operational improvement
Authors: Chakrabarti Somnath , Kumar Nripendra , Upadhyay Anupam
Published: August 2018

Subject area

Strategy.

Study level/applicability

The case can primarily be used for a Strategic Management course for teaching the revival strategies for financially weak plants. The case highlights the need to shift from a product manufacturing perspective to a market orientation perspective and, hence, may add value as an add-on case in a Strategic Marketing course. The case also covers the topic of benchmarking which may be of use in an Operations Management course.

Case overview

DJSL Ltd. is the largest engineering and manufacturing enterprise in India in the energy-related/infrastructure space in the public sector. Its Lucknow unit, manufacturing porcelain insulators and wear resistant ceramic lining (CERA LINING), has started reporting losses. A change of management took place in October 2015, whereby Mr. S P Singh was appointed as the Head of the Lucknow Unit. Mr. Singh had rich functional experience of 30 years, mainly in the domains of strategy, project execution and commercial aspects. He was asked to come up with a revival plan for the Unit by the top management of DJSL. The case highlights the importance of operational issues in turnaround management.

Expected learning outcomes

Students may be encouraged to debate the benchmarking practices that are best suited for the Lucknow unit. They can also discuss the impact of benchmarking efforts upon turnaround strategy. Students are also encouraged to understand the constraints which may limit the success of initiatives impacting operational improvements. Students need to develop the understanding of marketing strategy to perform a SWOT analysis of each product of the Lucknow unit and to sense the business opportunities in and around the environment. Students need to discuss how productivity may be improved with the adoption of appropriate people development strategies. Students are encouraged to discuss the revival/turnaround strategies and to identify the influence of improvement in operational efficiency/productivity upon revival plan.

Supplementary materials

Teaching Notes are available for educators only. Please contact your library to gain login details or email support@emeraldinsight.com to request teaching notes.

Subject code

CSS: 11: Strategy.
Recurrent pregnancy lossesvis-à-visanemia and vitamin (Folate/B12) imbalance
Authors: Kaur Lovejeet , Puri Manju , Saraswathy Kallur Nava , Trivedi Shubha Sagar , Sachdeva Mohinder Pal
Published: August 2018

Purpose

Recurrent pregnancy losses (RPL), a major contributor of reproductive wastage, affect maternal health both physically and mentally. Folate and B12 (Vitamin B12) deficiency anemia is common in the reproductive age group women in developing countries like India. And due to proven role of folate in various maternal and fetal anomalies, women are routinely prescribed folic acid under various national policies. However, B12 supplementation is rare, despite known deleterious effects of its deficiency. The purpose of this paper is to understand RPL through anemia with special reference to folate and B12 imbalance.

Design/methodology/approach

Multiparous women with normal obstetric outcomes (n=135) and women with Idiopathic RPL (n=105) were recruited in the study. All women were non-pregnant and belonged to North Indian population. Hb, serum folate and B12 and plasma homocysteine were measured in all the women. Anemia was classified according to WHO guidelines (Hemoglobin (Hb)<12g/dL).

Findings

The incidence of Anemia was more among normal multiparous women (73 percent) as compared to women with RPL (60 percent). However, unlike folate deficiency anemia among controls, B12 deficiency anemia was observed in women with RPL. Moreover, these women, despite being less anemic, with high B12 deficiency and folate sufficiency (presumably due to folate supplementation) had more imbalanced vitamin metabolism, as evident from homocysteine levels. The study suggests that anemic or non-anemic deficiencies of B12 and folate among women with RPL may be combated by screening for both vitamins, rather than supplementing folate indiscriminately to all.

Research limitations/implications

One of the limitations is that ferritin levels for iron deficiency anemia could not be measured in this study.

Originality/value

The present study is the first study, to the best of our knowledge, where we looked for the role of imbalance of folate and B12 in women with RPL.
A novel MCDM model for prioritizing the renewable power plants’ construction
Authors: Sedady Fatima , Beheshtinia Mohammad Ali
Published: August 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose a new multi-criteria decision making (MCDM) technique to determine the priority of renewable power plants construction conceding technical, economic, social, political and environmental aspects.

Design/methodology/approach

First, a comprehensive set of 5 main criteria of technical, economic, social, political and environmental are considered for renewable power plants construction, each including 5 sub-criteria (a total of 25 sub-criteria). Then, the analytic hierarchy process method is used to determine the weight of the criteria. Finally, a new MCDM technique proposed to prioritize the construction of renewable power plants, named TOPKOR. To demonstrate the capability of the proposed method, a case study is conducted in which six types of renewable power plants are evaluated.

Findings

Comparison results of the main criteria weights show that the “economic” [0.403], “environmental” [0.296] and “technical” [0.17] aspects have the highest importance, respectively. The results also show that solar, hydroelectric and wave and tidal power plants have the highest priority for construction, respectively.

Research limitations/implications

The result of this research could be useful for related decision makers in construction of the renewable power plants to have a comprehensive set of criteria in technical, economic, social, political and environmental aspects in their decision process.

Originality/value

This research provides a comprehensive set of criteria and sub-criteria for prioritizing the renewable power plants. Moreover, a new hybrid MCDM technique is introduced for prioritizing the construction of power plants.
Trace‐imposed stretch correction in Kirchhoff prestack time migration
Authors: Liu Qiancheng , Zhang Jianfeng
Published: August 2018

Kirchhoff prestack time migration, which works trace‐by‐trace, remains appealing to academia and industry due to its robustness and efficiency. However, like the other prestack migration methods, Kirchhoff prestack time migration also suffers from the angle‐dependent stretching effect, which narrows the amplitude spectra of seismic data. This effect gets more severe as the incident angle increases. In this paper, we propose a novel approach, which attaches a prediction shaping filter to the Kirchhoff prestack time migration, to mitigate the stretching effect. Our approach takes advantage on the trace‐by‐trace implementation of the prestack time migration algorithm, without the output of the angle‐domain common‐imaging gather. Also, our method can cascade with Q‐compensation in prestack time migration. We demonstrate our method with both a numerical example and a field data example.
The Origins of Epenthesis in Liquid+Sonorant Clusters in Mid‐Ulster English
Authors: Maguire Warren
Published: August 2018

Epenthesis in liquid+sonorant clusters is a well known feature of Irish English, almost universally assumed to be the result of contact with Irish, which has extensive epenthesis. However, epenthesis was (and still is to a degree) common in English and Scots in Britain, specifically in liquid+sonorant clusters in stem‐level codas. This paper examines epenthesis in Mid‐Ulster English (MUE), comparing it to epenthesis in Irish, English and Scots. This comparison reveals that epenthesis in MUE is essentially identical to epenthesis in English and Scots, diachronically and synchronically, and is not very like epenthesis in Irish. At most, Irish played a reinforcing role in the development of epenthesis in MUE. That this most `Irish‐like’ of features of this Irish English dialect is not of Irish origin has important consequences for our understanding of the historical phonology of MUE and other Irish English dialects.
Comparative study between 68Ga‐prostate‐specific membrane antigen positron emission tomography and conventional imaging in the initial staging of prostate cancer
Authors: Wong Hui Sze , Leung John , Bartholomeusz Dylan , Sutherland Peter , Le Hien , Nottage Michelle , Iankov Ivan , Chang Joe H
Published: August 2018

Introduction

The management of prostate cancer has undergone significant advances since the introduction of 68Ga‐prostate‐specific membrane antigen (68Ga‐PSMA) positron emission tomography (PET) scans. Data on the use of 68Ga‐PSMA PET scans in the setting of biochemical recurrence is widely available. Data on the use of 68Ga‐PSMA PET as an initial staging modality, however, is limited. The aim of this retrospective study was to compare the staging of patients with newly diagnosed prostate cancer between 68Ga‐PSMA PET and current conventional imaging modalities. The potential impact of any change in stage will be analysed.

Methods

Details of all patients who underwent 68Ga‐PSMA PET in South Australia between March 2016 and March 2017 were obtained. One hundred and thirty‐one patients with newly diagnosed prostate cancer who had 68Ga‐PSMA PET prior to consideration of definitive treatment were included in this study. The stage pre‐68Ga‐PSMA PET (based on conventional imaging) and post‐68Ga‐PSMA PET was recorded. The stage was classified as A – localised disease, B – presence of regional lymphadenopathy, C – oligometastatic disease (up to three metastases) and D – widespread metastases. Management plans were recorded.

Results

This study showed that the use of 68Ga‐PSMA PET resulted in a change of stage in 37 (28%) patients with an upstage in 17 (13%) patients and a downstage in 20 (15%) patients (P < 0.001). 68Ga‐PSMA PET excluded oligometastatic disease in 11 (8%) patients who had suspicious oligometastatic disease based on a single conventional imaging modality. These 68Ga‐PSMA PET findings impacted on management in at least 24 (18%) patients.

Conclusion

The use of 68Ga‐PSMA PET scans in initial staging can have a significant impact on staging and management when compared to current conventional imaging modalities.
A Systems Analysis of Drivers of Individual Bankruptcies
Authors: Shi Lei , Evans John , Li Yifei
Published: August 2018

In this paper, we use a systems‐based analysis to identify the systemic drivers of individual bankruptcies in Australia and compare the results with a similar analysis of global corporate credit defaults that found uncontrollable factors were significant. We include both macroeconomic factors and microcharacteristics. The results show that both macroeconomic factors and microcharacteristics are important systemic drivers of individual bankruptcies, and further that uncontrollable factors are very significant drivers of individual bankruptcies.
Durable response to nivolumab in a lung adenocarcinoma patient with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: Ide Maako , Tanaka Kentaro , Sunami Shunya , Asoh Tatsuma , Maeyama Takashige , Tsuruta Nobuko , Nakanishi Yoichi , Okamoto Isamu
Published: August 2018

The efficacy and safety of immune‐checkpoint inhibitors in non‐small cell lung cancer patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) remain unknown. Herein, we describe the case of a 62‐year‐old man with multiple pleural tumors and carcinomatous pleurisy. High‐resolution computed tomography indicated usual interstitial pneumonia, and a respiratory function test revealed a restrictive disorder and decreased diffusion capacity. He was diagnosed with lung adenocarcinoma and IPF. After failure of initial chemotherapy, he was treated with nivolumab and achieved a complete response without any sign of exacerbation of IPF. The response to nivolumab has persisted for > 1 year. This is the first report of a non‐small cell lung cancer patient with IPF who has been treated with immune‐checkpoint inhibitors for such a long period and achieved a sustained response.
Video‐assisted thoracic surgery is an optimal alternative to conventional thoracotomy for reoperations for ipsilateral pulmonary lesions
Authors: Chen Donglai , Mao Rui , Kadeer Xiermaimaiti , Sun Weiyan , Zhu Erjia , Peng Qiao , Chen Chang
Published: August 2018

Background

Ipsilateral pulmonary reoperation is empirically considered a contraindication of video‐assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) because of intrapleural adhesion and the destruction of anatomical structures caused by previous surgery. The purpose of this study was to present our experience of the use of VATS for ipsilateral reoperations.

Methods

The medical records of patients who underwent VATS reoperation or re‐thoracotomy between January 2006 and March 2017 were retrospectively reviewed. Data were compared to assess the feasibility and safety of VATS for ipsilateral reoperations.

Results

The study enrolled 64 patients, including 36 patients who underwent attempted ipsilateral VATS reoperations (VATS group) and 28 who underwent conventional re‐thoracotomy as a control with clinicopathological characteristics similar to those in the VATS group. Intrapleural severe adhesions were detected in 28 (77.8%) and 22 (78.6%) patients in the VATS and re‐thoracotomy groups, respectively (P = 0.906), and their dissection required a longer period in the VATS group (P = 0.014). VATS reoperations were converted to re‐thoracotomy or video‐assisted mini re‐thoracotomy in three patients because of bleeding or difficulty in dissecting hilar structures. There were no significant differences in resection methods, time to reoperation, intraoperative blood loss, or drainage time between the two groups. However, patients in the VATS group had a shorter hospital stay (P < 0.01) and fewer complications (P = 0.042).

Conclusion

VATS is an optimal alternative to re‐thoracotomy for ipsilateral pulmonary lesions, regardless of intrapleural adhesions and the destruction of anatomical structures caused by former operations in selected patients.
Polymorphisms in selected genes and analysis of their relationship with osteochondrosis in Polish sport horse breeds
Authors: Wypchło M. , Korwin‐Kossakowska A. , Bereznowski A. , Hecold M. , Lewczuk D.
Published: August 2018

The aim of this research was to evaluate the polymorphisms of selected genes and to find their potential effect on the occurrence of osteochondrosis in Polish Warmbloods (sport horse breeds). The study was conducted on a group of 198 horses subjected to official performance tests. Investigated joints—fetlock, hock and stifle—were X‐rayed twice, once before and again at the end of the tests (first and second examination), and on this basis the degree of disease was evaluated. Based on the results of previous research, 13 candidate genes potentially associated with the occurrence of osteochondrosis were selected and, among them, 32 polymorphisms were tested. Seven SNPs located in the MATN1, CPVL, HYAL1, XIRP2, FRZB, COL5A2 and IGF1 genes were found to be associated with occurrence of osteochondrotic lesions in different joints. These intragenic polymorphisms seem to provide valuable information about the genetic basis of osteochondrosis in sport horse breeds.
PRIVATIZATION OF WATER: EVALUATING ITS PERFORMANCE IN THE DEVELOPING WORLD
Authors: CESAR Sylvia
Published: August 2018

Private‐sector provision of water has been promoted in developing countries since 1990 in order to expand water service coverage to low‐income households. Decades later, the consequences of privatizing water utilities are still disputed. Some scholars have found that areas with privatized water services see positive development effects, while others contend that the private‐sector supply of a social good will always lead to its under‐provision. However, does more privatization of water provision in developing countries actually bring about more access to water? This paper hypothesizes that more private participation in water provision will not ensure more access to water at the national level. The relationship is tested using data on weighted percentages of private ownership of water utilities, and access to improved water sources from 1990 to 2015 across 62 countries. Multivariate OLS results indicate a positive relationship but with no statistical significance. 2SLS results, on the other hand, indicate a positive, small and statistically significant effect of water privatization on water access. Nonetheless, the causal mechanism behind these results must be further explored, given that the measured effect could be capturing the result of an increase in investment that is associated with private ownership of water utilities.
Unicystic high‐grade intraductal carcinoma of the parotid gland: cytological and histological description with clinic–pathologic review of the literature
Authors: Palicelli Andrea , Barbieri Paola , Mariani Narciso , Re Paola , Galla Stefania , Sorrentino Raffaele , Locatelli Francesca , Salfi Nunzio , Valente Guido
Published: August 2018

Intraductal carcinoma of the salivary glands is a rare, not well‐characterized tumor. We reviewed the literature and report the first case of a high‐grade unicystic intraductal carcinoma of the parotid. Formalin‐fixed/paraffin‐embedded blocks were sectioned and stained for hematoxylin and eosin and immunostains (CAM5.2, EMA, CK5, p53, p63, SMA, S100 protein, DOG1, mammaglobin, AR, ER, PR, Her‐2, and Ki67). A 72‐year‐old man showed a painless nodule (2 cm) in the right parotid region. A ‘tumor of uncertain malignant potential’ (low grade) was diagnosed by fine‐needle aspiration cytology (FNAC). Preoperative magnetic resonance imaging revealed a well‐delimited, oval cyst without evidence of parenchymal invasion (T1‐scans: homogeneously isointense with hypointense thin peripheral ring; T2‐scans: strongly hyperintense). Histological examination confirmed a unilocular cyst lined by a multistratified epithelium arranged in solid, pseudopapillary, cribriform, and ‘incomplete cribriform/microcystic’ patterns. Tumor cells were CAM5.2+, EMA+, mammaglobin+, AR+, p63+ (focal), CK5+ (focal), p53 (+, 20%), ER‐, PR‐, S100 protein‐, DOG1‐, and Her‐2‐. A continuous peripheral layer of p63+/CK5+/SMA+ myoepithelial cells proved the ‘in situ’ nature of the tumor. The evidence of focal severe nuclear atypia, high mitotic index (12 mitoses/10HPFs), and high proliferation index (40%) favored a high‐grade intraductal carcinoma. Preoperative FNAC and clinic–pathologic correlation are very helpful. Discrepancy in dysplasia grade between FNAC and resected specimen can occasionally occur (especially in case of focal high‐grade features). Total sampling should exclude invasive areas or other cystic malignancies.
Constructing gender identity through masculinity in CSR reports: The South Korean case
Authors: Lee Jinyoung , Parpart Jane L.
Published: August 2018

Drawing on the themes of men and masculinity, this article examines texts in the corporate social responsibility (CSR) reports of local multinational enterprises (MNEs) in South Korea, an emerging economy. This article explores how Korean male hegemony is hidden and naturalized in CSR reporting. Focusing on the discursive construction of gender identity, we analyze how CSR reports portray gendered identities in ways that may foster gender inequality by examining how the texts reflect the inferior position of women and marginalized male workers in the workplace. We review 15 CSR reports from Korean MNEs as a primary data source for examining corporate policies and disclosure on gender‐equality issues in the workplace. We explore the inherently embedded meaning of CSR reports to evaluate the masculine tone of gender relations in these texts. To deepen our understanding, we retrieved the original text segments, coded them by using a categorical framework and revisited our data to critically examine our interpretation of the narrative structures that we argue reflect and reproduce certain discourses of masculinity, through the (in)visibility of women, the marginalization of women and (part‐time) men, and the silencing of their voices by the Korean male hegemony.
Informal digital learning of English and English as an international language: The path less traveled
Authors: Lee Ju Seong , Lee Kilryoung
Published: August 2018

This exploratory study aimed to identify a model that explains the relationship between Informal Digital Learning of English (IDLE) practice and English as an International Language (EIL) perception. The hypothesized model—students’ engagement in IDLE practice will be significantly and positively related to their perception of EIL—was tested using a survey with 317 Korean EFL (English as a Foreign Language) university students. The results of Structural Equation Modeling showed a strong, significant and positive relationship between IDLE activities in which EFL learners engage and their EIL perception. Practically, these findings help broaden the scope of conventional EIL intervention beyond the classroom as a complementary EIL pedagogical model. From a theoretical perspective, this study represents a conceptual advance in our understanding of IDLE by adding a new insight to the current literature. This study also makes a contribution toward bridging an interdisciplinary divide between EIL and IDLE.
Understanding the tumour micro‐environment communication network from an NOS2/COX2 perspective
Authors: Basudhar Debashree , Bharadwaj Gaurav , Somasundaram Veena , Cheng Robert Y S , Ridnour Lisa A , Fujita Mayumi , Lockett Stephen J , Anderson Stephen K , McVicar Daniel W , Wink David A
Published: August 2018

Recent findings suggest that co‐expression of NOS2 and COX2 is a strong prognostic indicator in triple‐negative breast cancer patients. These two key inflammation‐associated enzymes are responsible for the biosynthesis of NO and PGE2, respectively, and can exert their effect in both an autocrine and paracrine manner. Impairment of their physiological regulation leads to critical changes in both intra‐tumoural and intercellular communication with the immune system and their adaptation to the hypoxic tumour micro‐environment. Recent studies have also established a key role of NOS2–COX2 in causing metabolic shift. This review provides an extensive overview of the role of NO and PGE2 in shaping communication between the tumour micro‐environment composed of tumour and immune cells that in turn favours tumour progression and metastasis.

Linked Articles

This article is part of a themed section on Nitric Oxide 20 Years from the 1998 Nobel Prize. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v176.2/issuetoc
Angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitor works as a scar formation inhibitor by down‐regulating Smad and TGF‐β‐activated kinase 1 (TAK1) pathways in mice
Authors: Tan Wei‐Qiang , Fang Qing‐Qing , Shen Xiao Z , Giani Jorge F , Zhao Tuantuan V , Shi Peng , Zhang Li‐Yun , Khan Zakir , Li You , Li Liang , Xu Ji‐Hua , Bernstein Ellen A , Bernstein Kenneth E
Published: August 2018

Background and Purpose

Angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE), an important part of the renin‐angiotensin system, is implicated in stimulating the fibrotic processes in the heart, lung, liver and kidney, while an ACE inhibitor (ACEI) promotes physiological tissue repair in these organs. The mechanism is closely related to TGF‐β1 pathways. However, the reported effects of applying ACEIs during scar formation are unclear. Hence, we explored the anti‐fibrotic effects of an ACEI and the molecular mechanisms involved in a mouse scar model.

Experimental Approach

After a full‐thickness skin wound operation, ACE wild‐type mice were randomly assigned to receive either ramipril, losartan or hydralazine p.o. ACE knockout (KO) mice and negative control mice only received vehicle (water). Wound/scar widths during wound healing and histological examinations were recorded at the final day. The ability of ACEI to reduce fibrosis via TGF‐β1 signalling was evaluated in vitro and in vivo.

Key Results

ACE KO mice and mice that received ramipril showed narrower wound/scar width, reduced fibroblast proliferation, decreased collagen and TGF‐β1 expression. ACEI attenuated the phosphorylation of small mothers against decapentaplegic (Smad2/3) and TGF‐β‐activated kinase 1 (TAK1) both in vitro and in vivo. The expression of ACE‐related peptides varied in murine models with different drug treatments.

Conclusions and Implications

ACEI showed anti‐fibrotic properties in scar formation by mediating downstream peptides to suppress TGF‐β1/Smad and TGF‐β1/TAK1 pathways. These findings suggest that dual inhibition of Smad and TAK1 signalling by ACEI is a useful strategy for the development of new anti‐fibrotic agents.
Current state and future prospects of artificial intelligence in ophthalmology: a review
Authors: Hogarty Daniel T , Mackey David A , Hewitt Alex W
Published: August 2018

Artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a major frontier in computer science research. Although AI has broad application across many medical fields, it will have particular utility in ophthalmology and will dramatically change the diagnostic and treatment pathways for many eye conditions such as corneal ectasias, glaucoma, age‐related macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy. However, given that AI has primarily been driven as a computer science, its concepts and terminology are unfamiliar to many medical professionals. Important key terms such as machine learning and deep learning are often misunderstood and incorrectly used interchangeably. This article presents an overview of AI and new developments relevant to ophthalmology.
The psychological appeal of owning private land for conservation
Authors: Gooden Jennifer , Grenyer Richard
Published: August 2018

Continued threats to global biodiversity have stimulated interest in the private purchase of land for conservation. Though not a new phenomenon, private land conservation appears to be on the rise, and its ambiguous position between philanthropy and financial investment leads to questions about the nature of landowner motives. To examine these motives, we used grounded theory techniques to analyze transcripts of narrative interviews with the owners of privately conserved areas (PCAs) and assessed what landowners had in common across a variety of cultural and policy contexts. The result was a model of PCA engagement in which landowners became personally invested in the management of PCAs and in the nature they protected. We found that PCAs can be conceptualized not merely as philanthropic endeavors or investments, but also as meaningful projects in which their owners engage. We integrated our findings with literature indicating that fundamental psychological drives for autonomy, efficacy, and social connection facilitate the engagement process, regardless of whether conservation motivation is intrinsic or extrinsic. Our findings suggest that land conservation programs might benefit from allowing landowner autonomy to the maximum extent possible, developing best practice standards against which landowners can assess their efficacy, and facilitating the development of landowner networks.
The ontogeny of intentional communication in chimpanzees in the wild
Authors: Fröhlich Marlen , Wittig Roman M. , Pika Simone
Published: August 2018

The onset of intentional communication in children's first year of life represents a major milestone in human cognitive development. Similarly, it is well established that our closest living relatives, the great apes, communicate with signals characterized by at least first‐order intentionality. Despite the well‐documented influence of developmental experiences on socio‐cognitive abilities in apes, the developmental trajectory of intentional signal use as well as effects of social exposure remain poorly understood under naturalistic conditions. Here, we addressed these issues by studying the ontogeny of intentional communication in chimpanzee infants of two subspecies (Pan troglodytes schweinfurthii/verus) and communities living in their natural environments. Overall, we found that gestures and bimodal signal combinations were most commonly accompanied by markers of intentional communication: audience checking, persistence to the goal, and sensitivity to recipient’s attentional state. Within individuals, the proportion of communicative behaviours associated with goal persistence and sensitivity to attention increased with age. Cross‐sectional comparisons between infants revealed an age effect on the use of audience checking. Context, interaction partner and site affiliation affected the production of specific markers irrespective of infants' age. The present study provided hitherto undocumented evidence for the development of three important markers of intentional communication in great apes. Moreover, our results suggest that social exposure impacts early intentional signal use.
Speculative Behavior in Vacant Land Development: Evidence for Real Options in Malaysia
Authors: Razak Muhammad Zaim , Khalid Haniza , Mohamad Azhar
Published: August 2018

The development of vacant land may be seen from a real options perspective—owners of vacant land have the incentive to delay developing the land and keep their options open (keep the lands undeveloped) if they believe that future development will yield higher value. We investigate whether there is speculative behavior with regard to vacant land development in Malaysia. Using samples of 254 vacant plots of lands and 3,681 houses in Selangor, Malaysia, we find that the option premium for vacant lands ranges from 8% to 20% across all areas in Selangor. We posit that the higher option premium for vacant lands is the result of a higher level of speculation by landowners. We also find that, while the option value increases, the intrinsic value reduces the market price of the vacant land. Our findings are indicative of speculative behavior by the owners of vacant land in Malaysia.