bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
TREATMENT OF EARLY STAGES HODGKIN LYMPHOMA DURING PREGNANCY
Authors: Avilès Agustin , Nambo Maria-Jesus , Neri Natividad
Published: December 2017

Objetive. To assess maternal and fetal outcome of women who receiving chemotherapy during pregnancy to treat Hodgkin lymphoma(HL) in early stages (IA and IIA), we performed an retrospective analysis of 44 women with HL at early stage, diagnosed and treated between 1988 to 2010, in a tertiary reference cancer center.Methods:We analyze data of HL: clinical characteristics and treatment; and special attention to maternal and fetal complications ; children : physical development, assess scholar performance phsycological, cardiac and neurological function and intellegence tests.Results:  Forty-four pregnant women were enrolled. Median age was 29.4 (range 21-37)years; most patients were stage IIA (86%), had mediastinal bulky disease (78%) and > 3 nodal sites involved; thus these patients were recorded to have a not favourable condition. Abortion was refused when proposed. All patients received combined chemotherapy: ABVD) ( adryamicin, bleomycin, vinblastine and dacarbazine), even during first trimester, at standar doses and schedules. Radiotherapy, when necessary was administered after delivery in 39 patients. No obstetrical complications were observed. Delivery ocurred between 31 to 36 weks in 10 patients (22%) and > 37 weeks in 34 cases (77%). Four newborns were low-weight: 2012 (median) (range:1750 -2350) g. No clinical malformations were observed and development of children were normal without evidence of cardiac, neurological damage. Behavior, scholar attendance and intellegence tests were normal. With a median follow-up of 120.4 (range 48-299) months, progression-free survival and overall survival were 93% and 95 %, respectively.Conclusion: Chemotherapy as initial therapy appear to be thes best therapeutic approach in these setting of patients, with a excelent outcome to both: mother and children. If radiotherapy is necessary, could be administered after delivery
Increased mortality in male recipients of red cells from ever pregnant female donors : mHAGs on red cells to blame ?
Authors: Ghosh Kanjaksha
Published: December 2017

N/A
Upper Cambrian to Lower Silurian stratigraphy of a Macdonald Platform-Kechika Trough-Cassiar Terrane transect, Ware, Tuchodi Lakes, Kechika, and Cry Lake map areas (94-F, K, L, 104-P), northeastern British Columbia
Authors: Pyle L J , Barnes C R
Published: December 2017

The Kechika Formation, a laterally extensive platform-to-basin facies, typically lies unconformably on Cambrian strata. Its five members, which are diachronous, have gradational and conformable contacts. Basinal facies of the Road River Group comprise three
formations: the Ospika (Lower to Middle Ordovician), Pesika (Lower Silurian), and Kwadacha (upper Lower Silurian to Lower Devonian). Volcanism, prominent unconformities, and abrupt changes in deposition indicate a complex history delineated temporally by conodont biostratigraphy. Deposition of the
Kechika and Ospika formations is attributed to periods of renewed extension followed by thermal subsidence. Silurian units unconformably and conformably overlie the Ospika Formation. The Pesika Formation, a transitional facies, is present mainly in the eastern part of the Kechika Trough. The
Kwadacha Formation records an influx of quartz silt and sand into the trough. The Kechika-Road River boundary in the displaced Cassiar Terrane is older than that east of the Northern Rocky Mountain Trench Fault.
Ordovician and Silurian strata of northeastern British Columbia: stratigraphic sections and synthesis of biostratigraphy
Authors: Norford B S
Published: December 2017

Thirty-six stratigraphic sections document the Ordovician and Silurian strata of northeastern British Columbia. The sections were measured through outcropping strata deposited on the MacDonald and Cassiar platforms, in the adjoining Kechika Trough of the Selwyn
Basin, the Nasina Basin, and within transitional zones between these regions. Synthesis of published and unpublished data from studies of microfossils and of invertebrate and vertebrate macrofossils constrains the ages of the formations and assists in the interpretation of the stratigraphic history
of the region. Several regional unconformities are recognized within the successions. From the platformal rocks and the transitional rocks, hiatuses can be documented during the earliest Caradoc, mid to late Caradoc, late Ashgill to very early Llandovery, mid Llandovery and within the interval
Wenlock to Ludlow. Within the basinal rocks, only the Llandovery hiatuses have been recognized.
Diffusion tensor imaging metrics in cystic intracranial mass lesions
Authors: Chellathurai Amarnath , Muthaiyan Priya , Gnanasigamani Sathyan , Alakappan Periakarupan
Published: December 2017

Background and Purpose: Conventional MR does not always differentiate various cystic lesions of brain. Our purpose was to explore the utility of DTI in characterization & differentiation of intra cranial cystic mass lesions. Materials and Methods: DTI was done with a clinical 1.5 Tesla system in 62 patients presenting with intra cranial cystic lesions. Parameter maps of the DTI metrics MD, FA, GA, RA, Geometric tensors (CL,CP,CS) were calculated & quantified using regions of interest. Cystic lesions were grouped based on etiology and management. Statistical analysis was performed to test the significance of difference in DTI metrics in differentiation of various groups of cystic lesions of brain. Results: Mann-Whitney U Test was done to analyse the usefulness of various DTI metrics in differentiating the intracranial cysts. Epidermoid cysts showed highest FA, RA, Cl & Cp due to the preferential diffusion of water through the well structured orientation of keratin filaments & flakes within it. Neurocysticercosis showed higher FA, next to epidermoid. Abscesses showed lowest MD. Arachanoid cyst, giant cistern magna, choroid fissure cyst, choroid plexus cyst, ependymal & neuroglial cysts showed higher MD & lower FA, implicating no preferential directional diffusivity. Conclusion: DTI does prove useful in characterization and differentiation of intracranial cystic mass lesions. This study implicates the need for inclusion of DTI in the routine protocol of imaging cystic intracranial mass lesions.
Endovascular uterine artery interventions
Authors: Das Chandan J , Rathinam Deepak , Manchanda Smita , Srivastava D N
Published: December 2017

Percutaneous vascular embolization plays an important role in the management of various gynecologic and obstetric abnormalities. Transcatheter embolization is a minimally invasive alternative procedure to surgery with reduced morbidity and mortality, and preserves the patient's future fertility potential. The clinical indications for transcatheter embolization are much broader and include many benign gynecologic conditions, such as fibroid, adenomyosis, and arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), as well as intractable bleeding due to inoperable advanced-stage malignancies. The most well-known and well-studied indication is uterine fibroid embolization. Uterine artery embolization (UAE) may be performed to prevent or treat bleeding associated with various obstetric conditions, including postpartum hemorrhage (PPH), placental implantation abnormality, and ectopic pregnancy. Embolization of the uterine artery or the internal iliac artery also may be performed to control pelvic bleeding due to coagulopathy or iatrogenic injury. This article discusses these gynecologic and obstetric indications for transcatheter embolization and reviews procedural techniques and outcomes.
Levoatrial cardinal vein with normal left ventricle: A forgotten cause of pulmonary arterial hypertension
Authors: Auti Onkar B , Shetty Varun , Belaval Vinay , Raj Vimal
Published: December 2017

Levoatrial cardinal vein (LACV) is anomalous connection between left atrium or pulmonary veins and systemic veins such as innominate vein or superior vena cava. This persistence of splanchnic circulation occurs when there is left-sided obstructive cardiac lesions such as hypoplastic left heart or mitral atresia. In this report we present three cases of LACV with well-developed left heart, without any obstructive lesions. All our cases presented with pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) and had associated intracardiac shunt such as ventricular/atrial septal defect and supracardiac partial anomalous pulmonary venous connection. Apart from the above shunts, LACV contributed to PAH in these cases. It is important to detect and report LACV as this may require surgical correction along with other defects. If LACV goes undetected during imaging workup, it may cause persistent PAH postoperatively.
Emergent presentation of Langerhans cell histiocytosis in a pediatric patient: Acute cerebellar involvement causing obstructive hydrocephalus requiring posterior fossa decompression
Authors: Rajderkar Dhanashree A , Shah Mrunal L , Shah Jehan L
Published: December 2017

Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) is a disorder of the monocyte-macrophage system that can be unifocal or systemic. Here, we present a pediatric case who initially presented with osseous LCH but again presented 6 years later emergently with cerebellar symptoms, cerebellar mass and obstructive hydrocephalus. Patient underwent biopsy of the cerebellum which was path proven intracranial LCH.
Evaluation of parenchymal thyroid diseases with multiparametric ultrasonography
Authors: Yildirim Duzgun , Alis Deniz , Bakir Alev , Ustabasioglu Fethi E , Samanci Cesur , Colakoglu Bulent
Published: December 2017

Aim: Differential diagnosis of parenchymal thyroid diseases by gray-scale ultrasound is quite difficult for a radiologist as the findings are very similar to each other. In this study we aimed to assess some quantitative spectral Doppler parameters, resistivity index (RI), acceleration time (AT), and quantitative elastography [shear wave velocity (SWV)] together to show their reliability for differential diagnosis of parenchymal thyroid diseases. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively reviewed findings of 227 patients (179 females, 48 males) that underwent spectral Doppler ultrasound and acoustic radiation force impulse between October 2013 and March 2016. Ages of the patients were between 18 and 74 years (39.52 ± 12.67). Based on clinical and laboratory findings, patients were divided into five groups (N: Normal, EH: Early Hashimoto, H: Late Hashimoto, M: Nodular Thyroid Disease, HM: Hashimoto + Nodular Thyroid Disease). Detailed statistical analyses were done on parameters such as age, gender, volume information, and RI, AT (ms), SWV (m/s). Results: No significant effect of gender or volume on the differentiation of disease pattern (Chi-square test: P= 0.306, Kruskal-Wallis test: P= 0.290) was found in this study. RI (0.41 ± 0.06) and SWV values (1.19 ± 0.18 m/s) were the lowest. AT values (>55 ms) were the highest in EH group (area under the curve: 0.913). Existence of H decreased RI and SWV values, while it extended AT in a different thyroid disease. Conclusion: Thyroid parenchymal diseases could be classified and differentiated from each other by measuring RI, AT, and SWV values quantitatively. So, in suspicious cases, these parameters could be a reliable asset for differential diagnosis.
A rare case of OEIS complex –newer approach to diagnosis of exstrophy bladder by color doppler and its differentiation from simple omphalocele
Authors: Aneja Kavita
Published: December 2017

The objective of this article is to present a new approach to diagnose and differentiate similar ventral masses by color Doppler. Two cases of ventral masses, a rare case of OEIS complex (Omphalocele-exstrophy-imperforate anus-spinal defects) with unusual presentation of exstrophy bladder and another of simple omphalocele, were studied by color Doppler for diagnosis and differentiation between the nature of similar masses. Ventral mass with absent bladder, normal kidneys, and normal amniotic fluid index raised the suspicion of exstrophy bladder. Color Doppler depicting altered intrafetal course of umbilical arteries and umbilical arteries coursing along the sides of ventral mass substantiated the diagnosis. The spatial relation between umbilical artery and aorta (which has no mention in the current literature) in sagittal view has been identified as an acute angle in a normal fetus and coined as “K angle” arbitrarily by the author. Color Doppler reveals altered (widened) “K angle” in exstrophy bladder compared to normal fetuses. Other combined anomalies pointed to the diagnosis of OEIS complex. The second case of simple omphalocele depicts normal intrafetal course of umbilical arteries and normal acute umbilical artery–aorta angle (K angle) on color Doppler. Color Doppler aids the early diagnosis of ventral defects. New method by umbilical artery-aorta angle (K angle) assessment on color Doppler helps differentiate exstrophy bladder from omphalocele.
Radiofrequency ablation of surface v/s intraparenchymal hepatocellular carcinoma in cirrhotic patients
Authors: Patidar Yashwant , Singhal Praveen , Gupta Shailesh , Mukund Amar , Sarin Shiv K
Published: December 2017

Objective: To retrospectively evaluate the safety and technical efficacy of percutaneous radiofrequency ablation (RFA) of surface hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in comparison to intraparenchymal HCC in cirrhotic patients. Materials and Methods: Surface lesions were defined as tumours located or reaching within 1cm of liver capsule including exophytic lesions. Seventy-four surface HCC including 21 exophytic in 58 patients (surface group) and 60 intraparenchymal HCC in 54 patients (intraparenchymal group) measuring up to 4 cm in maximum extent underwent percutaneous [ultrasound (US) or computed tomography-guided (CT-guided)] RFA. The response to the treatment was assessed by contrast enhanced CT/magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) done at 1, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months of RFA and thereafter every 4–6 months. In case of features suggesting residual disease, a repeat RFA was performed. The technical success after single-session RFA, complications and disease recurrence rates were calculated and compared between two groups. Results: Technical success achieved after first session of RFA in surface HCC was 95% (70/74) and intraparenchymal HCC was 97% (58/60). Hundred percent secondary success rate was achieved in both groups after second repeat RFA in residual lesion. No major difference in complication and local recurrence rate in both group on follow-up in surface HCC and intraparenchymal HCC. No case of needle track, peritoneal seeding, and treatment mortality was found. Conclusions: The complication rate and efficacy of RFA for surface and exophytic HCC's were comparable to that of intraparenchymal HCC. Hence surface and exophytic lesions should not be considered a contraindication for RFA in cirrhotic patients.
Comparison of Oral Health Status and Knowledge on Oral Health in Two Age Groups of Schoolchildren: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Geethapriya PR , Kandaswamy D
Published: December 2017

Introduction

Oral health plays a pivotal role in the overall wellbeing of children. As children grow, there is a variation in their oral health status due to the changing trends and lifestyle.

Aim

To evaluate and compare the factors related to oral health status in two age groups of school going children.

Materials and methods

A total of 582 children aged 8 to 11 years from 3 schools were included. Based on their school grade, they were grouped as younger (third grade) and older (fifth grade) children. Their dental caries status, caries treatment needs, oral hygiene status were assessed. A questionnaire was given to them to assess their knowledge on oral health.

Results

Both third and fifth grade children had similar caries status. The caries treatment needs was significantly higher (p = 0.02) in fifth grade children of school III. The oral hygiene status was significantly better (p = 0.004) in fifth grade children of school I and third grade children (p < 0.001) of school III. Fifth grade children were found to have more knowledge on oral health and it was statistically significant in school II (p = 0.001). In school III, as caries status increased, the oral hygiene index score significantly increased (p = 0.001).

Conclusion

Age did not have any influence on the oral health status of children. The older children had better knowledge on oral health, but the oral hygiene practices were not followed effectively

How to cite this article

Geethapriya PR, Asokan S, Kandaswamy D. Comparison of Oral Health Status and Knowledge on Oral Health in Two Age Groups of Schoolchildren: A Cross-sectional Study. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2017;10(4):340-345.
In vitro Macro-qualitative Comparison of Three Enamel Stripping Procedures: What is the Best Shape We can get?
Authors: N Gholmieh Mona
Published: December 2017

Aim

Interdental stripping is a common clinical procedure in orthodontic therapy, by reshaping the proximal contacts. Handheld abrasive strips have been criticized as time-consuming process. Metallic strip system, diamond disk, or segment disks have become increasingly popular. The aim of this study is to evaluate the morphological aspects of remodeled dental surfaces so as to conclude which of the different techniques (disk, bur, or strip) used to reduce the mesiodistal diameter is the best to reproduce the initial contour of the proximal surface of the tooth.

Materials and methods

Seventy-nine pieces (“teeth”) were prepared from permanent healthy teeth (premolars and molars) extracted for orthodontic reasons. They were mounted on a stand resembling the position of the natural teeth in a mild crowded dentition. The “teeth” are divided into three groups as follows: group S (strip): 26 “teeth,” group D (disk): 25 “teeth,” group B (bur): 28 “teeth.” In order to study the changes, these prepared “teeth” are macro-photographed in groups of 5 before and after proximal grinding.

Results

The “teeth” contours have been identified using piecewise cubic Hermit polynomials. The change in the contour has been traduced in terms of the change of curvature in the “teeth” contours. We used the z-test in order to find the confidence interval for the proportion of the class “+” for each of the techniques B, S, and D. With confidence level of 95%, we obtained the following confidence intervals:

B = (0.6943; 0.9057); S = (0.9093; 1.0138); D = (0.6184; 0.8616)

These results can be interpreted, as the technique S is significantly much better than the other two techniques if we aim at conserving the shape of the teeth before and after treatment.

Conclusion

We conclude that the use of a strip for remodeling the proximal surface of a tooth is an optimal technique to preserve the proximal shape of the tooth although it requires more time.

Clinical significance

The use of abrasive strip preserves the best shape of the proximal side. Abrasive strip could be the last step of any proximal reshaping technique.

How to cite this article

Nassif N, Gholmieh MN, Sfeir E, Mourad A. In vitro Macro-qualitative Comparison of Three Enamel Stripping Procedures: What is the Best Shape We can get? Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2017;10(4):358-362
Is Inferior Alveolar Nerve Block Sufficient for Routine Dental Treatment in 4- to 6-year-old Children?
Authors: Ghanizadeh Milad , Pourkazemi Maryam , Sheykhgermchi Sanaz
Published: December 2017

Introduction

Pain control is one of the most important aspects of behavior management in children. The most common way to achieve pain control is by using local anesthetics (LA). Many studies describe that the buccal nerve innervates the buccal gingiva and mucosa of the mandible for a variable extent from the vicinity of the lower third molar to the lower canine. Regarding the importance of appropriate and complete LA in child-behavior control, in this study, we examined the frequency of buccal gingiva anesthesia of primary mandibular molars and canine after inferior alveolar nerve block injection in 4- to 6-year-old children.

Study design

In this descriptive cross-sectional study, 220 4- to 6-year-old children were randomly selected and entered into the study. Inferior alveolar nerve block was injected with the same method and standards for all children, and after ensuring the success of block injection, anesthesia of buccal mucosa of primary molars and canine was examined by stick test and reaction of child using sound, eye, motor (SEM) scale. The data from the study were analyzed using descriptive statistics and statistical software Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 21.

Results

The area that was the highest nonanesthetized was recorded as in the distobuccal of the second primary molars. The area of the lowest nonanesthesia was also reported in the gingiva of primary canine tooth.

Conclusion

According to this study, in 15 to 30% of cases, after inferior alveolar nerve block injection, the primary mandibular molars' buccal mucosa is not anesthetized.

How to cite this article

Pourkazemi M, Erfanparast L, Sheykhgermchi S, Ghanizadeh M. Is Inferior Alveolar Nerve Block Sufficient for Routine Dental Treatment in 4- to 6-year-old Children? Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2017;10(4):369-372.
Conscious Sedation with Nitrous Oxide to control Stress during Dental Treatment in Patients with Cerebral Palsy: An Experimental Clinical Trial
Authors: Baeder Fernando M , Silva Daniel F , de Albuquerque Ana CL , Santos Maria TBR
Published: December 2017

Introduction

Individuals with cerebral palsy (CP) often present with oral alterations that impact oral health and require dental treatment.

Aim

This study aimed to evaluate the use of conscious sedation with nitrous oxide (N2O) to control stress during dental treatment in individuals with CP using as parameters: Venham score (VS), heart rate (HR), and respiratory rate (RR).

Materials and methods

A total of 77 CP patients >3 years of age with a mean age of 11.8 (± 6.4) years were evaluated in a rehabilitation center. Stress control was measured at the following time points: T1 (presedation), T2 (induction), T3 (sedated patient), and T4 (end). Student's t-test, the Chi-squared test, analysis of variance (ANOVA), and the McNemar test were used. The significance level was 5%.

Results

Sedation ranged between 10 and 60% N2O, with an average of 35.6% (± 10.4). The RR did not vary among the times (p = 0.12). The HR and VS varied significantly between times (p < 0.001), as significantly higher values of HR were observed at T1.

Conclusion

Conscious sedation with N2O during dental care controls stress in CP patients, as verified by a decrease in HR, and does not promote respiratory depression. Higher concentrations of N2O are recommended for CP patients with tachycardia.

Clinical significance

Sedation modifies behavior during dental procedures, facilitating patient collaboration.

How to cite this article

Baeder FM, Silva DF, de Albuquerque ACL, Santos MTBR. Conscious Sedation with Nitrous Oxide to control Stress during Dental Treatment in Patients with Cerebral Palsy: An Experimental Clinical Trial. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2017;10(4):384-390.
Complete Overlay Denture for Pedodontic Patient with Severe Dentinogenesis Imperfecta
Authors: Rupesh Suresh
Published: December 2017

Dentinogenesis imperfecta (DI) is a hereditary condition that may affect both primary and permanent dentition and is characterized by abnormal dentin formation. The teeth may be discolored with chipping of enamel and, in untreated cases, the entire dentition may wear off to the gingiva. This may lead to the formation of abscesses, tooth mobility, and early loss of teeth. In the Indian population, DI is found to have an incidence of 0.09%. Treatment of DI should aim to remove infection, if any, from the oral cavity; restore form, function, and esthetics; and protect posterior teeth from wear for maintaining the occlusal vertical dimension. Treatment strategies should be selected based on the presenting complaint of the patient, patient's age, and severity of the problem. This case report presents the management of severe DI with tooth worn off until gingival level in a very young patient using complete overlay denture, which has not been reported earlier.

How to cite this article

Syriac G, Joseph E, Rupesh S, Mathew J. Complete Overlay Denture for Pedodontic Patient with Severe Dentinogenesis Imperfecta. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2017;10(4):394-398.
Acrylic Planas Direct Tracks for Anterior Crossbite Correction in Primary Dentition
Authors: Devasya Ashwin , Ramagoni Naveen K , Taranath Mahantesh , Prasad Kamavaram EV , Sarpangala Mythri
Published: December 2017

Anterior crossbite is one of the most common forms of malocclusion in sagittal relationship of maxilla and mandible. If not corrected at the earliest, it will cause restriction of normal growth and development of both the jaws. The incidence of anterior crossbite is 4 to 5% in primary dentition. Self-correction may occur at the transient dentition or permanent dentition stage, but treating it should be the first priority. Using either removable or fixed appliances is recommended for the correction, but it depends on the patient cooperation, treatment duration, and parent approval. In this case report, we have used planas direct tracks (PDTs) which helps the forward development of mandible and corrects the malocclusion. With two modifications to PDTs, one is using acrylic instead of composite. It is advantageous to both clinicians and parents by correcting the crossbite efficiently in short duration while taking less chair-side time for fabrication and being economical.

How to cite this article

Devasya A, Ramagoni NK, Taranath M, Prasad KEV, Sarpangala M. Acrylic Planas Direct Tracks for Anterior Crossbite Correction in Primary Dentition. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2017;10(4):399-403.
Medico-ethnobotanical Claims used against Gastrointestinal Disorders by Different Tribes of Assam, India
Authors: Mehmud Selim , Baruah D , Bharali BK , Joseph GVR
Published: December 2017

Aim

The present communication deals with some newly reported Medico-ethnobotanical claims used for the treatment of various gastrointestinal disorders like blood dysentery, chronic dysentery, diarrhea, and cholera by using medicinal plants documented during field survey since last 3 years.

Materials and methods

Field surveys were conducted in different locations of Assam where many folk healers were interviewed for documentation of Medico-ethnobotanical information. The reported plants are collected, identified, and specimens are preserved.

Results

Nine different tribes and communities of Assam are newly recorded to use 30 medico-ethnobotanical claims for the concerned purpose, while use of similar claims is already reported elsewhere by other tribes of different regions; the other tribes using similar claim are highlighted. Out of total 47 medicinal plant specimens documented, 10 medicinal plants were recorded for 11 single formulations, 39 medicinal plants for 19 compound formulations, and among these 2 medicinal plants are repeated for both compound and single formulations.

Conclusion

Ethnic societies are still depending upon the medicinal plants for the treatment of various diseases including gastrointestinal disorders. Further scientific investigations are needed for validation of these folk claims.

Clinical significance

Cross-cultural study along with other tribes was done and highlighted against enumeration for further validation of folk claims.

How to cite this article

Bora D, Mehmud S, Baruah D, Bharali BK, Rath C, Mangal AK, Joseph GVR. Medico-ethnobotanical Claims used against Gastrointestinal Disorders by Different Tribes of Assam, India. J Drug Res Ayurvedic Sci 2017; 2(3):175-182.
Sustaining the National Health Insurance Scheme in Ghana: Perceptions and Experiences of Health Care Providers and Subscribers
Authors: Emmanuel Amangbey , Julius Gandiibu A. , Gbolo Gbaran
Published: December 2017

The establishment of the National Health Insurance Scheme was as a consequence of government effort at adopting a sustainable health care financing system with the aim of achieving universal health coverage. This study therefore explored the perceptions and experiences of health care providers and subscribers regarding the sustenance of the NHIS in Ghana. The study employed a mixed method design using survey questionnaires and in-depth face-to-face interviews. The study revealed that NHIS had contributed to the revenue base of service providers and increased healthcare utilisation at provider centres. The inability of health care providers to provide essential medicines and perceived poor quality of health care were identified as challenges to subscribers. The study concludes that the NHIS has the potential of ensuring universal health coverage provided stakeholders make deliberate efforts at addressing the obvious sustainable threats identified.
Changes accompanying proliferative capacity and morphology of Nicotiana tabacum L. callus in response to 2,4-D
Authors: Gatz Andrzej , Tomaszewska-Sowa Magdalena , Figas Anna
Published: December 2017

The common trait of all auxins is a stimulation of cell elongation and also cell division in the presence of cytokinin; both are essential for callus induction and its multiplication. The response of plant tissues to various compounds with auxin activity may be quite different. In this study, the effectiveness of a synthetic auxin, 2,4-dichlorofenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D), instead of the generally applied natural auxin, indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), was tested for the proliferation of Nicotiana tabacum callus. The following concentrations of 2,4-D were tested: 0.1, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0 mg dm−3. Callus was derived from stem pith and its proliferation allowed on MS medium through five subcultures at 25°C and in darkness. After each passage, the fresh weight and morphological features of the callus were determined. The 0.5 mg dm−3 2,4-D treatment was the most favorable for producing the greatest increase in fresh weight in each of five subsequent subcultures as well as maintaining normal morphological features for proliferation. However, the 1.0 mg dm−3 2,4-D treatment in comparison with the lowest, 0.1 mg dm−3, was more beneficial when considering regular increases of fresh weight and a better cell cohesion for callus growth.
What influences the composition of fungi in wheat grains?
Authors: Bankina Biruta , Bimšteine Gunita , Neusa-Luca Ingrīda , Roga Ance , Fridmanis Dāvids
Published: December 2017

Wheat grains are inhabited by different fungi, including plant pathogens and fungi – mycotoxin producers. The composition of seed mycobiota can be influenced by different factors, including agronomic practices, but the results are still contradictory. The aim of this study was to evaluate the mycobiota of wheat grains depending on agroecological conditions. Wheat grains were obtained from a two-factorial field trial: A – tillage system (A1 – ploughing at a depth of 22–24 cm; A2 – harrowing at a depth of up to 10 cm); B – crop rotation (B1 – continuous wheat; B2 – oilseed rape and wheat; B3 – crop rotation). The mycobiota of grain were determined by mycological and molecular methods. The most abundant and widespread of the mycobiota were Pyrenophora tritici-repentis, Alternaria spp., Arthrinium spp., and Fusarium avenaceum. Higher amounts of precipitation increased the infection of grains with Fusarium fungi. Seven species of Fusarium were identified in the grain samples: F. avenaceum, F. poae, F. graminearum, F. culmorum, F. acuminatum, F. sporotrichioides, and F. tricinctum. The soil tillage method and crop rotation did not influence the total incidence of Fusarium spp., but the abundance of a particular species differed depending on agronomic practice. The research suggests that continuous wheat sowing under conditions of reduced soil tillage can increase the level of risk of grain infection with F. graminearum and, consequently, the accumulation of mycotoxins.
Regulatory redox state in tree seeds
Authors: Ratajczak Ewelina , Dietz Karl Josef
Published: December 2017

Peroxiredoxins (Prx) are important regulators of the redox status of tree seeds during maturation and long-term storage. Thioredoxins (Trx) are redox transmitters and thereby regulate Prx activity. Current research is focused on the association of Trx with Prx in tree seeds differing in the tolerance to desiccation. The results will allow for better understanding the regulation of the redox status in orthodox, recalcitrant, and intermediate seeds. The findings will also elucidate the role of the redox status during the loss of viability of sensitive seeds during drying and long-term storage.
Hypothalamus-pituitary-thyroid axis activity and function of cardiac muscle in energy deficit
Authors: Lachowicz Katarzyna , Pałkowska-Goździk Ewelina , Rosołowska-Huszcz Danuta
Published: December 2017

Frequently repeated statement that energy restriction is a factor that improves cardiovascular system function seems to be not fully truth. Low energy intake modifies the hypothalamus-pituitary-thyroid axis activity and thyroid hormone peripheral metabolism. Thyroid hormones, as modulators of the expression and activity of many cardiomyocyte proteins, control heart function. Decreased thyroid hormone levels and their disturbanced conversion and action result in alternation of cardiac remodeling, disorder of calcium homeostasis and diminish myocardial contractility. This review provides a summary of the current state of knowledge about the mechanisms of energy restriction effects on thyroidal axis activity, thyroid hormone peripheral metabolism and action in target tissues, especially in cardiac myocytes. We also showed the existence of energy restriction-thyroid-heart pathway.
Cryoglobulinemia and its correlation with clinical extrahepatic manifestations in chronic hepatitis C
Authors: Jabłońska Joanna , Kozłowska Joanna , Ząbek Jakub , Walewska-Zielecka Bożena , Lewandowski Zbigniew , Wiercińska-Drapało Alicja
Published: December 2017

Cryoglobulinemia is a condition with a confirmed relationship with HCV infection, but many other extrahepatic symptoms are also present in hepatitis C.
Aim: The aim of this study was to assess the incidence and type of extrahepatic manifestations and cryoglobulinemia as well as their correlation with clinical symptoms in Polish patients.
Material and methods: 246 consecutive patients with hepatitis C were studied. Clinical symptoms were assessed by anamnesis and a clinical investigation. Cryoglobulins were estimated by a method basing on their ability to reverse precipitation in temperature +4ºC. Monoclonality of cryoglobulins was estimated by agarophoresis immunotyping – capillary electrophoresis and immunofixation. The presence of classical rheumatoid factor (RF-IgM) was tested using ELISA. Anti-nuclear antibodies (ANA) were tested using the indirect immunofluorescence method. Anti-CCP, anti-SSA, anti-α-fodrin antibodies, RF IgG, IgM and IgA were assessed using commercial enzymatic tests. Statistical methods were: Fisher exact test, generalized additive models, odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals, aid of spline curve, SAS system version 9.4.
Results: Cryoglobulins were found in 93 persons (37.8%). Type II cryoglobulinemia was detected in 28 persons. Patients with cryoglobulinemia were elder (p<0.0004). 54 patients (21.95%) manifested clinical extrahepatic symptoms. Arthralgia was found in 27 cases (10.98%). Skin changes were found in 22 patients (8.94%). 12 persons had glomerulonephritis (4.88%). 11 patients (4.47%) had sicca syndrome. 6 patients developed peripheral polyneuropathy (2.4%). 4 persons developed B cell lymphoma (1.63%). There was no correlation between presence of symptoms and grading, staging, age, HCV genotype, and the presence of autoantibodies. Extrahepatic manifestations were present more frequently in women (p<0.0008).
Patient satisfaction and provider use of electronic communication: A cross-sectional analysis
Authors: Lee Joy L , Dy Sydney M. , Kravet Steven J. , Ashar Bimal H. , Nesson Todd , Wu Albert W.
Published: December 2017

Background: The way patients and providers communicate with one another outside of the clinic is changing. However, little is known about primary care provider perspectives and experiences of these changes and whether these provider behaviors correlate with patient satisfaction. This study examines provider patterns of communication with patients outside of the clinic setting via cellphone, email and text messaging and the relationship between communication behaviors and patient satisfaction. Method: Cross-sectional analysis of the association between patient satisfaction scores and a 16-question community survey of 149 Mid-Atlantic primary care providers in community practice was conducted in the year prior to clinic implementation of a new electronic health record system with secure patient-messaging capabilities.Results: Providers who gave patients their email addresses were more likely to communicate with their patients electronically than those who did not. Providers who made their email addresses available to patients also had significantly higher overall satisfaction scores than those who did not, although there were no statistically significant differences in individual satisfaction domains. The use of these cellphone, email and text-messaging were also not found to be associated with patient satisfaction domains.    Conclusions: Provider provision of their email addresses may be an indicator of a stronger relationship with certain patients. This study elucidates the relationship between provider communication behaviors and patient satisfaction. A better understanding of the role of the patient-provider relationship and its role in patient satisfaction may help practices and providers improve their patients’ experience of primary care.
Current US health policy and the future of person-centered care
Authors: Tanenbaum Sandra
Published: December 2017

Current US health policy is contested and consensual. This is not new to American healthcare, as the last 70 years have seen on the one hand conflict between those who would expand access to health services and those who would restrict it and, on the other, a popular pursuit of biomedical research and the interventions it spawns. During the last year, US health policy has repeated this dynamic, with multiple unsuccessful attempts to repeal the Affordable Care Act (ACA) as well as (near) unanimous passage of the 21st Century Cures Act. This paper reports on each half of the conflict-consensus dynamic and considers which, if any, aspects of these current US health policies might lead to more (or less) person-centered care. Attention will be drawn especially to access to healthcare under the ACA and the use of “real-world evidence” under the Cures Act. The former allows more Americans to receive more of the care they need. The latter challenges evidence-based medicine’s evidence hierarchy, where randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are considered superior to other ways of knowing, even for the care of individual persons. The paper describes the current discussion of what sorts of evidence are appropriate to a drug and device regulatory regime. It remarks on the claims to person-centeredness by proponents and opponents of both bills and on potential dilemmas posed when aspects of person-centeredness conflict.
Global checklist of species of Grania (Clitellata: Enchytraeidae) with remarks on their geographic distribution
Authors: Prantoni Alessandro , Lana Paulo C. , Erséus Christer
Published: December 2017

A checklist of all currently accepted species of Grania Southern, 1913 (Annelida, Clitellata, Enchytraeidae) is presented. The genus is widespread over the world and comprises 81 species described to date. Remarks on their geographical distribution, habitat, synonymies and museum catalogue numbers are provided.
Management: Serving to Lead
Authors: McManus Alesia
Published: December 2017

In an era of constant change and transition, libraries are continually called upon to do more with less. This fact makes it critical to utilize resources—including human—as fully as possible. One way to accomplish this is by encouraging staff participation in service opportunities, which can foster talent and leadership development in those who engage. In this column, Alesia McManus issues a call to action for all of us to get more involved and thereby lay claim to our leadership potential. McManus, immediate past-president of RUSA, offers a compelling argument that seizing the growth opportunities that are available through service will allow us to make even more of a difference in our workplaces and communities as well as enable us to reap personal benefits for years to come.—Editor
Amplify Your Impact: Moving from a Promotion Strategy to an Engagement Strategy
Authors: Anderson Cordelia
Published: December 2017

Cordelia Anderson highlights the need to assess your patrons’ needs and personalities to appeal to them, rather than simply pushing your message out there and hoping something sticks. Engagement requires more effort on our part, but ultimately is much more rewarding as well. Read on for some great ideas on how to fine-tune your promotions and turn them into opportunities for real engagement with your community members.—Editors
The Alert Collector: Dark Tourism: A Guide to Resources
Authors: Price Rebecca
Published: December 2017

When I began receiving topic ideas for the Alert Collector column in 2016, Rebecca Price’s submission for a column on “dark tourism” caught my attention, mostly because of its novelty. I had a sense of what the topic entailed, and it turns out to be even more fascinating than I suspected. Why do some people like to visit the sites of tragedies? What is the attraction of ghost tours? Why are memorials popular destinations for tourists? This relatively new field of dark tourism crosses into many different disciplines, as you will see in the column that follows. While not all librarians may be rushing to create collections around this topic, the items may fill other collection needs in sociology, anthropology, and other areas. Price is an adjunct research and instruction librarian at Duquesne University and a doctoral candidate in social and comparative analysis at the University of Pittsburgh. As a member of a University of Pittsburgh research team studying children’s experiences at dark sites, Price has published several peer-reviewed articles about dark tourism.—Editor
A Reference for That: Reference Service: Every Time It’s Personal
Authors: Tyckoson David A.
Published: December 2017

One of the most important—and most enduring—aspects of reference service is its personal nature. Reference service is an opportunity for a library patron to get expert help with information, usually without an appointment, and never with a service fee. That type of service is rare in today’s world.When a reference librarian helps someone, we focus directly on the needs of that one patron. It’s usually one librarian working with one patron—one person at a time. We help each person with their specific question and make our service as personalized to that patron’s needs as possible. We adapt our responses to the individual needs of each patron, even when the question has been asked before. Whether it is the first time anyone has ever asked the question or the umpteenth student working on the same assignment, we mold our responses to meet the needs of every individual person. This is how reference librarians operate—and what makes our service unique.
Including the Voices of Librarians of Color in Reference and Information Services Research
Authors: VanScoy Amy , Bright Kawanna
Published: December 2017

Librarians of color make up a small proportion of information professionals, but their perspectives should still be included in theory and best practices. This study seeks to create an inclusive understanding of reference and information service (RIS) by exploring the experience of RIS for librarians of color. Using interpretative phenomenological analysis, the experience of RIS for eight librarians of color, from various ethnic groups and types of libraries, is analyzed. Five themes of experience emerged from the analysis: uniqueness and difference; broad range of professional skills; messiness and beauty of the human interaction; working in a web of outside forces; and learning, growth, and change. In relation to prior research, findings show that these librarians of color experience reference and information work as multifaceted and user-focused, in common with librarians in general. However, they have unique experiences of reference and information services work because of microaggressions and discrimination and because of their focus on serving as a role model or mentor.
Understanding Appeals of Video Games for Readers’ Advisory and Recommendation
Authors: Lee Jin Ha , Clarke Rachel Ivy , Cho Hyerim , Windleharth Travis
Published: December 2017

Despite their increasing popularity and inclusion in library collections, video games are rarely suggested in library advisory or recommendation services. In this work, we use the concept of appeals from existing literature in readers’ advisory and media studies to understand what attracts people to play certain games. Based on 1,257 survey responses, we identify sixteen different appeals of video games and elaborate how these appeals are expressed in users’ terms. We envision these appeals can serve as an additional access point for video games and will be particularly useful for recommendation and advisory services. In addition, we also examined the correlation between appeals and common game genres. The relationships between appeals and genres observed from our data support our argument that appeals can serve as a complementary access point to result in more diversified sets of recommendations across genres. In our future work, we plan to further investigate individual appeals such as mood and narrative across multiple types of media.
Book Review: Capturing Our Stories: An Oral History of Librarianship in Transition
Authors: Eiben Amy
Published: December 2017

During her tenure as president-elect and president of ALA, Dr. Loriene Roy proposed a President’s Initiative to build an oral history of librarianship. Arro Smith, the author of Capturing Our Stories, was fortunate to be under Roy’s advisement as a doctoral student at the time, and he focused his doctoral work on bringing this idea to fruition.
Book Review: Creating Literacy-Based Programs for Children: Lesson Plans and Printable Resources for K-5
Authors: Jordan Joshua
Published: December 2017

R. Lynn Baker returns with another useful guide for youth services librarians. As in her previous book, Counting Down to Kindergarten (ALA, 2015), Baker’s passion for reading readiness and innovative services to K-5 children is abundant throughout this streamlined and practice-based volume. In clear language, Baker advocates for organized and thoughtful approaches to program planning in public libraries. She provides readers with succinct chapters on best practices in programming from inception to evaluation. All planning activities are undergirded by the five modes of multiliteracy: textual, social, digital, multisensory, and visual literacy. This foundation guides programmers through the entire process.
Book Review: Daily Life in 18th-Century England, 2nd ed.
Authors: Hawkins Michael
Published: December 2017

Kirstin Olsen’s book provided a broad overview of England in the eighteenth century. It offers insight into what is considered the “every day” for the populace of eighteenth-century England. Olsen focuses on everything from gender and marriage to science to clothing and fashion. Each chapter is a written account of how the subject was a part of the daily life of a person. Accounts include things such as how they would have used certain clothing items, what type of books many were reading, and how science interacted with their lives. Each chapter’s information is supported by selected primary sources and accompanied by a further reading section. Any student interested in gender, race, and class issues in eighteenth-century England will find this a useful resource.