bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Expression of neutrophil extracellular trap-related proteins and its correlation with IL-17 and TNF-α in patients with oral lichen planus
Authors: Cheng Juehua , Zhou Chenyu , Liu Jia , Geng Yanlin , Liu Lin , Fan Yuan
Published: October 2024

Background

Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) are produced by polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMNs) stimulated by interleukin-17 (IL-17) and tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α). However, the level and role of NETs in oral lichen planus (OLP) remain poorly understood.

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the expression of NETs in OLP and explore the correlation between NETs and the levels of IL-17 and TNF-α.

Methods

The expression and distribution of NET-related proteins in tissue samples from each group were assessed using hematoxylin-eosin (HE) staining and immunofluorescence (IF). Additionally, the expression of NET-related proteins in peripheral blood samples from each group was evaluated using cell IF technique and fluorescence spectrophotometry. The relative formation level of NETs in each group was determined by fluorescence spectrophotometry via plasma co-culture. Furthermore, the levels of inflammatory cytokines IL-17 and TNF-α in plasma and culture supernatant were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

Results

NET-related proteins were located in the subepithelial and lamina propria layers of OLP lesions. OLP had significantly higher expression of NET-related proteins in lesion tissues and peripheral blood compared to the healthy control (HC) group (p < 0.05). The rate of NETs formation in the erosive-stage OLP (EOLP) group was significantly higher than that in the HC group (p < 0.05), in contrast, no significant increase was observed in the non-erosive OLP (NEOLP) group (p > 0.05). Furthermore, the levels of IL-17 and TNF-α in the EOLP group were significantly elevated compared to those in the NEOLP group and HC group (p < 0.05), while the levels in the NEOLP group did not significantly differ from those in the HC group (p > 0.05). The rate of NETs formation showed a positive correlation with the levels of IL-17 and TNF-α in plasma.

Conclusion

The expression of NET-related proteins was upregulated in OLP lesion tissues and peripheral blood. Elevated levels of IL-17 and TNF-α in peripheral blood plasma positively correlated with the rate of NETs formation, suggesting that IL-17 and TNF-α mediate the formation of NETs in OLP patients, and may thereby contribute to the development of OLP.
Nervous system guides behavioral immunity in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Wang Yu , Sun Xuehong , Feng Lixiang , Zhang Kui , Yang Wenxing
Published: October 2024

Caenorhabditis elegans is a versatile model organism for exploring complex biological systems. Microbes and the external environment can affect the nervous system and drive behavioral changes in C. elegans. For better survival, C. elegans may develop behavioral immunity to avoid potential environmental pathogens. However, the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying this avoidance behavior are not fully understood. The dissection of sensorimotor circuits in behavioral immunity may promote advancements in research on the neuronal connectome in uncovering neuronal regulators of behavioral immunity. In this review, we discuss how the nervous system coordinates behavioral immunity by translating various pathogen-derived cues and physiological damage to motor output in response to pathogenic threats in C. elegans. This understanding may provide insights into the fundamental principles of immune strategies that can be applied across species and potentially contribute to the development of novel therapies for immune-related diseases.
Underwater laser scanner segmentation: a robust AI method for 3D seafloor
reconstruction
Authors:   , Lecaros Saavedra Fernanda
Published: October 2024

Obtener mapas submarinos de alta resolución es esencial para comprender el
ambiente bajo el agua y enfrentar desafíos actuales como la exploración de
recursos y la conservación de hábitats. Un método común para lograr este
objetivo es la utilización de un escáner laser, esta técnica detecta líneas
generadas por un laser en imágenes para posteriormente calcular la
reconstrucción 3D. Sin embargo, este método enfrenta desafíos debido a las
distorsiones del agua y las variaciones de iluminación que presenta el ambiente
acuático. Para mejorar la detección de líneas láser en imágenes del entorno
submarino y lograr un mapeo mas preciso, se propone un enfoque innovador que
integra técnicas de procesamiento de imágenes con algoritmos de inteligencia
artificial. El método propuesto se basa en la arquitectura de red neuronal U-Net
y utiliza técnicas de segmentación y reconocimiento de pixeles para representar
las coordenadas en 3D con mayor eficiencia y robustez.
El método fue evaluado utilizando imágenes sintéticas y de laboratorio bajo
diferentes condiciones de iluminación y características del terreno, y los
resultados demuestran que el método es más efectivo y robusto que los métodos
convencionales, obteniendo errores más bajos en las reconstrucciones 3D que los
métodos actuales. Finalmente, validamos el método propuesto entrenado con datos
sintéticos y de laboratorio para luego testearlo con imágenes reales en un
entorno submarino obteniendo segmentaciones precisas y verificando la robustez
del método en diferentes escenarios sin la necesidad de ajustar parámetros del
método propuesto.
Combined Analysis over the Years on the Influence of Foliar Application of Kappaphycus Seaweed-based Biostimulant on the Yield of Two Different Varieties of Black Gram (Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper)
Authors: Gopalakrishnan Vijay Anand K. , Mondal Sananda , Vaghela Pradip , Panda Debasish , Ghosh Arup
Published: October 2024

Experiments were conducted in a split-plot design with the different concentrations of Kappaphycus alvarezii seaweed extract (KSWE; 0%, 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20%) along with recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF) assigned to the main plots and varieties (TAU-1 and DBGV-5) assigned to the sub-plots at the net house facility of CSIR-Central Salt & Marine Chemicals Research Institute during the Kharif season of 2019 and 2020, in order to investigate the influence of (KSWE on two black gram varieties, DBGV-5 and TAU-1, at a single location over two years. KSWE was foliar applied 3 times at 20, 40 and 60 DAS and various yield and yield attributes were measured. Combined analysis over the years revealed that the response of black gram varieties to KSWE varied between years, with significant improvements in yield and its attributes in 2020 as compared to 2019. KSWE concentration at 5% concentration was optimal, enhancing seed yield by 14.1% over the control and improving most yield parameters except pod length and seeds per pod. Yield attributes like pod numbers and total seeds per plant were enhanced by 9 and 10.7%, respectively, over control by this factor (KSWE concentration) at 5% level. No significant interaction was observed between KSWE concentration and variety, indicating consistent effectiveness across different black gram varieties.
Influence of Nano Urea and Nano DAP on Growth and Productivity of Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) During kharif season
Authors: Jyothsna Koyi , H. M. Jayadeva , B. S. Lalitha, , K. S. Somashekar, , G. G. Kadalli, , N. Umashankar,
Published: October 2024

A two years field experiment was conducted at AICRP on sunflower, Zonal agricultural research station, UASB, GKVK, Bengaluru during kharif, 2022 and 2023 to study the effect of nano urea and nano DAP on growth and productivity of sunflower. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Complete Block Design with thirteen treatments (50 % RDN+ Nano N @ 4 ml, 50 % RDN+ Nano N @ 6 ml, 75 % RDN+ Nano N @ 4 ml, 75 % RDN+ Nano N @ 6 ml, 50 % RDNP + Nano N & P @ 4 ml, 50 % RDNP + Nano N & P @ 6 ml, 75 % RDNP + Nano N & P @ 4 ml, 75 % RDNP + Nano N & P @ 6 ml, RDF + Normal urea spray @ 1%, RDF+ DAP spray @ 1%, RDF+ FYM, RDF and absolute control) each replicated thrice. The results revealed that significantly higher plant height (199.89 cm), number of leaves per plant (30.26), leaf area (5557 cm2 plant-1), leaf area index (3.09), total dry matter production (146.70 g plant-1), capitulum diameter (19.06 cm), no. of seeds per capitulum (1147), seed yield (2026 kg ha-1) and stalk yield (4395 kg ha-1) were recorded with the application of RDF+ FYM and it was found on par with application of 75 % RDN+ Nano N @ 6 ml.
Organizational Trade Secrets and Organisational Performance: Leveraging Technical Information for Competitive Edge in Small Scale Businesses
Authors: Akhimien Prince Godswill , Aliyu Ph.D. Idemudia Sunday , Ph.D. Surprise Osaigbovo
Published: October 2024

This study examines the impact of organizational trade secrets and organizational performance, focusing on technical information management practices and competitive edge as sub-variables in measuring the performance of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Ekpoma, Edo State, Nigeria. Utilizing a descriptive survey research design, data were collected from 108 SMEs using structured questionnaires. The analysis, conducted through SPSS software, includes descriptive statistics, correlation, and regression analyses to assess the relationship between technical information management practices and competitive edge. Findings reveal that robust cybersecurity measures, the use of Non-Disclosure Agreements (NDAs), and regular employee training on intellectual property are the most prevalent and influential practices. These practices significantly correlate with improved financial results, market share, customer satisfaction, and innovation rates. The regression analysis confirms that technical information management practices collectively explain a substantial portion of the variance in organizational performance. The study underscores the importance of strategic technical information management for enhancing the competitive edge and achieving sustainable growth in SMEs. Recommendations include enhancing cybersecurity measures, enforcing NDAs, conducting regular employee training, documenting technical information, seeking legal advice on intellectual property, and regularly evaluating management practices to ensure they contribute effectively to organizational performance
Construction and Performance Evaluation of a Vegetable Shredding Machine
Authors: O.A Akinyele, , A.T Gbolagade, , S.T Oladimeji, , M.A Akande, , A.A Azeez.
Published: October 2024

The need for vegetables because of its economic significance and nutritive value cannot be overstated with the expanding global population. As a way of adding value to vegetables before using them domestically, a portable shredding machine has been developed in order to evade the challenges of time consumption, contamination and wounds associated with the manual method of shredding vegetables by means of sharp knife. Vegetable shredding is a process of cutting vegetables into thin slices or pieces using a sharp knife or grater. The vegetable shredding machine which works on shear principle was fabricated using locally sourced materials and tested. The performance evaluation test shows that the machine driven by a 0.5-hp electric motor has an average performance shredding time of 29.2 seconds with a shredding efficiency of 75.28% and a throughput capacity of 17.25 g/secs. The vegetable shredder consists of simple components that can be effortlessly assembled. Hence, the operation and maintenance of the machine are quite simple and easy
The Role of Museum Design in Enhancing Visitor Learning: A Critical Review
Authors: El-Kiki Mohamed , Almekaimi Meshari , Alobaidan Jassim
Published: October 2024

This study examines the impact of museum design on knowledge acquisition through a comprehensive literature review. By analyzing existing research on museum architecture, exhibit layout, and visitor engagement, the study explores how design elements such as spatial organization, lighting, and interactive displays influence learning outcomes. The literature review reveals key insights into the ways museum environments shape cognitive processes and retention of information. Findings suggest that well-designed museums significantly enhance visitor engagement and facilitate deeper understanding. This review highlights existing trends and identifies gaps in the current research, providing a foundation for future empirical studies on the relationship between museum design and knowledge transfer
Study The Impact of Bologna Process on The Learning Proficiency of Students at ImamJa`afarAlsadiq University
Authors: Alrobaiei Abduljaleel Mohammed Hamad
Published: October 2024

The current research aims to study if the Bologna processincreasing the learning proficiency according to the openionsof students of the Technical College at Imam Ja’farAlsadiq University (Ijsu) - Baghdad - Iraq, the research sample consisted of (109) male and female students from the Department of Communications Technology Engineering, and a questionnaire was prepared for that consisted of onequestion, and the indicators of their validity and stability were verified, then the data were processed statistically using the statistical SPSS computer program, and the results indicated that the application of the Bologna processincreases the students` learning proficiency
A 2.4-7GHz Dual Band Microstrip Patch Antenna (DBMPA)
Authors: Chinen Koyu , Nakamoto Shoko , Kinjo Ichiko
Published: October 2024

We designed a 2.4-7GHz dual-band microstrip patch antenna DB-MPA using electromagnetic field simulation and transmission characteristic (S21) measurements. Optimizing the slot length of the patch surface increased the directional antenna gain at 7 GHz by 3.5 dB compared to 2.48 GHz, reducing the effect of the higher spatial propagation loss of 9 dB at 7 GHz. A transmission system simulation with an antenna component model incorporating S21 data measured with the 2.4-7GHz DB-MPA from 1 to 8 GHz was conducted at a spatial propagation distance of 5 to 40 m to verify the practicality of the 2.4-7GHz DB-MPA
Effect Of Nurses Long Working Hours On Patients’ Satisfaction At River Nile State Public Hospitals -Sudan
Authors: Mohammed Abdualrahman Akasha Abdualrahman , Abdallah Awad Higazi Mohammed Ahamed , Ali Eied Saber Al Amine , Bereima Mohamed Adam Abdallah , Allah Mahassin Almahi Ballah Fdila
Published: October 2024

Background: The effect of long working hours on patient satisfaction is a critical issue in healthcare systems. Also, Extended working hours have the potential to compromise the quality of patient care. Objectives: this study was carried out to investigate the effect of nurses long working hours on patients’ satisfaction. Method: This was descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted during the period from August 2022 to August 2024 at the main three governmental hospitals of River Nile State-Sudan. The data was collected by questionnaire and Karen-patient satisfaction scale, one hundred patients participated in the study, data was analyzed by (SPSS) software program and presented in tables and figures, all data fixed or adjusted at level P- value less than (0.05). Results: The study results showed that less than two quarter (60.0%) of patients were male, with age less than half (40.0%) between 41-60 years. Also (27 %) of patients their education level did not exceed primary school. the results of this study revealed that more than two third (68.0%) they don’t have health insurance coverage. patient’s satisfaction with the quality of nursing care is very good. Conclusions: The study finding highlighted a significant gap in communication between nurses and patients, while patients reported high level of satisfaction with effective diagnosis and respectful treatment by staff. the study showed that no significant relationship between patient satisfaction levels and their demographic profiles
Educational Interventions For Individuals With Hematologic Diseases: Approaches And Delivery Modalities
Authors: Habchi Maha El , Gazzaz Hassane , Aatik Yassine El , Doghmi Kamal
Published: October 2024

Introduction: this review aims to summarize current evidence on various approaches and modalities for delivering educational interventions to individuals with hematologic diseases. Methods: a literature search was conducted in three databases: pubmed, embase, and google scholar. Studies published between january 2013 and december 2023 were considered eligible if they involved some form of educational intervention for individuals with hematologic diseases. Results: out of the 572 articles initially identified, seven studies were included and underwent data synthesis. The main findings demonstrate that educational interventions implemented in this field often involve individual and group approaches, using educational tools such as written documents, audiovisual presentations, and games. These approaches are delivered by a multidisciplinary team. Overall, these interventions have led to significant improvements in participants' understanding of their health condition, enhanced self-management abilities, and improved psychological well-being. Conclusion: there is no universal method that can be applied universally. Furthermore, the literature suggests that personalized program models tailored to the needs of the population are conclusive. Based on these observations, we propose recommendations for future research directions to enhance existing methods and develop new techniques to increase the effectiveness of educational initiatives in the field of hematologic diseases
Application Of Robotic Systems In Healthcare And Reduced Infection Risk In Cancer Patients In Postoperative Oncology Surgical Patients
Authors: Hamad Mohammed Adam Idris , Modasiya Dr. Mohamadmoin K , Modasiya Roshanjahan M
Published: October 2024

This research aims to investigate the impact of robotic systems in oncology surgery, focusing on sensitive cases such as brain and colon cancer. The study includes a group of 5 male and female patients, and data is collected post-surgery, particularly after patient recovery. The significant advantages of robotic surgery are documented in observational tables and charts. The findings suggest a promising future for robotic systems in surgery, with reduced recorded risks
A Phenomenological Study On The Social Isolation Experiences Of Elderly Living Alone In Korea
Authors: Son A-Ram , Song Mi-Kyo , Kim Hee-Young , Park Hye-Rim , Bae Gyoung-Bin , Bae Youn-Woo , Bae Yu-Bin , Seo Bo-Mi , Seong Chae-Eun , Song Un-Sol , Song In-Woo , Cho Ye-Jin , Han Seung-Woo
Published: October 2024

Background: The purpose of this study is to identify the social isolation process of seniors living alone. Methods: Data collection was conducted over a total of 8 days from July 8, 2024 to July 15, 2024. The participants in this study were elderly people living alone and aged 65 or older. 11 subjects participated in the final interview. All interviews were recorded with recorder and transcribed for analyzing by Van Kaam method of phenomenology. Results: Demographic characteristics (Sex, age, job, education, housing status, religion, and economic condition) were derived from the raw data, and these were grouped into 14 sub-themes and four categories: ‘economic deprivation,’ ‘physical difficulties,’ ‘social relationships,’ and ‘emotional withdrawal.’ Conclusion: Based on the results of this study, it is believed that counseling and program development are necessary to address the social isolation of elderly people living alone
Microemulsion Concentration in Preparation of LiMn2O4 Submicron Spherical Particles as Cathode Materials for Highly Reversible Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Zhu Weijie , Lu Zhongpei , Lu Xiaojun , Yin Fan , Li Weili , Ji Hongmei , Yang Gang
Published: September 2017

Spinel LiMn2O4 is one of the most important cathode materials but it still suffers from rapid capacity degradation during electrochemical cycling. Beside surface coating to improve the electrochemical performances, controlling the bulk morphology of LiMn2O4 (LMO) is another effective strategy. In this work, porous LiMn2O4 microspheres composed of numerous primary nanoparticles are synthesized by micro‐emulsion and co‐precipitation methods. The porous structure and the primary nanoparticles size of LiMn2O4 are effected by the concentration of micro‐emulsion and the precursor of Mn2+. The well‐established porous LiMn2O4 microspheres with abundant ionic channels and good contact with electrolyte endow the spinel a remarkable electrochemical performance. After 300 cycles, 0.50 M‐LMO sample presents excellent reversible capacity of 112.8 mAh g−1 at 0.5 C rate. After 1000 cycles, 0.50 M‐LMO sample presents the highest capacity of 97.9 mAh g−1 and remains 54.2 mAh g−1 at the current rate of 10 C. The porous spherical structure of cathode materials is essential to improve the rate performance due to the good contact between the active material and electrolyte.
EQUIVARIANT GEOMETRY OF BANACH SPACES AND TOPOLOGICAL GROUPS
Authors: ROSENDAL CHRISTIAN
Published: September 2017

We study uniform and coarse embeddings between Banach spaces and topological groups. A particular focus is put on equivariant embeddings, that is, continuous cocycles associated to continuous affine isometric actions of topological groups on separable Banach spaces with varying geometry.
Five-year surveillance of human tuberculosis caused byMycobacterium bovisin Bologna, Italy: an underestimated problem
Authors: LOMBARDI G. , BOTTI I. , PACCIARINI M. L. , BONIOTTI M. B. , RONCARATI G. , DAL MONTE P.
Published: September 2017

Human tuberculosis (TB) caused byMycobacterium bovissurveillance is affected by a lack of data. The aims of the present study were: (i) to estimate the proportion of human TB caused byM. bovisover a period of 5 years in Bologna, Northern Italy, which, like most Western European countries, has been declared bovine TB-free; (ii) to compare the genetic profiles ofM. bovisstrains identified in humans with those circulating in cattle in the last 15 years in Italy. Among 511 TB patients, the proportion of human TB caused byM. boviswas 1·76%, significantly associated to extra-pulmonary localization (P= 0·004) and to being elderly (P< 0·001) and Italy-born (P= 0·036). The molecular epidemiology analysis by spoligotyping and Multilocus Variable Tandem Repeat Analysis confirmed that mostM. bovisstrains from Italy-born patients matched those circulating in cattle herds in Italy between 2001 and 2016. Two cases ofMycobacterium bovisBCG infection were also characterized. In conclusion, the rate of human TB caused byM. boviswas not negligible, highlighting the relevance of molecular typing in evaluating the effectiveness of programmes designed to eradicate TB in cattle in Italy.
Federal Space Weather Research Could Improve Hazard Preparation
Authors: Stanley Sarah
Published: September 2017

Researchers outline the history of the U.S. government’s involvement in space weather research, from before World War II, through the Space Race, and beyond.
Social-demographic shift in drug users at the first-ever- methadone maintenance treatment in Wuhan, China
Authors: Liu Cong , Liu Pu-lin , Dong Quan-lin , Luo Li , Xu Jun , Zhou Wang , Wang Xia
Published: September 2017

The methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) has been initiated in Wuhan, China since early 2006. To understand the social-demographic, behavioral, and infectious diseases characteristics of drug users enrolled in their first-ever-MMT between 2006 and 2015, a retrospective observational study was implemented to also provide evidence for health policy-decisions to reduce harm and control disease. Pearson chi-square tests and t-tests were used to assess significant differences between two 5-year periods, 2006–2010 and 2011–2015. We observed increases in the mean age (38.65 vs. 42.43 years, P < 0.001), mean age of initial opioid drug use (28.18 vs. 31.07 years, P < 0.001), employment (11.9% vs. 30.7%, P < 0.001), married/co-habiting (42.4% vs. 47.8%, P < 0.001), and declines in higher education level (93.6% vs. 84.8%, P < 0.001), injection (82.3% vs. 75.1%, P < 0.001), syringe sharing (27.7% vs. 9.9%, P < 0.001), HCV infection rates (72.9% vs. 70.5%, P = 0.017). The number of drug users enrolling each year reduced following a continuous rapid growth in the first 3 years. The findings imply for adjusting in treatment services and allocation of resources to respond to emerging trends. In addition, the data will also be helpful for identifying needs and getting a baseline insight of the social-demographic and behavioral characteristics of the opioid abusers in the area.
2. Fachmesse Krankenhaus Technologie: „Nachhaltigkeit kostet nur auf den ersten Blick Geld“
Authors: Kohrs Jens
Published: September 2017

Ganz im Sinne der Initiatoren war auch die 2. Fachmesse Krankenhaus Technologie Ende Juni von intensivem Fachsimpeln geprägt. Wie ihre Bilanz ausfällt und was die FKT darüber hinaus plant, wollte kma von den FKT-Präsidenten Horst Träger und Wolfgang Siewert wissen.
Staphylococcus aureus bei Diabetes: persistierende Fußulzerationen
Authors: Sachse Svea , Rindert Martin , Bach Olaf , Kluge Wolfram , Löffler Bettina
Published: September 2017

Diabetes mellitus repräsentiert weltweit ein zunehmendes Gesundheitsproblem, das viele Komplikationen einschließt. Die diabetische Fußulzeration (DFU) stellt eine schwer zu therapierende und kostenintensive Komplikation dar. In Folge können sich Infektionen schnell etablieren und sich zu chronischen Infektionen entwickeln. Dies wird durch die verminderte Immunantwort der Patienten aufgrund des Diabetes begünstigt. Pathogene Keime wie S. aureus, aber auch wenig virulente Keime wie Corynebacterium ssp. werden als ätiologische Auslöser nachgewiesen. Die Fähigkeiten dieser Erreger, den Knochen zu infizieren und darin zu persistieren, sind vielfältig und liegen im Fokus vieler Forschergruppen. Entscheidend für den Heilungsprozess ist das erfolgreiche Zusammenspiel von antibiotischen und chirurgischen Maßnahmen, die unter anderem sowohl eine Wundsanierung als auch eine Revaskularisierung einschließen. Das Ziel ist es, die Anzahl der DFU und die dadurch bedingten Infektionen und Amputationen zu reduzieren.
Aufklärungs- und Informationspflichten
Authors: Böhmig Carolin
Published: September 2017

Zu den wesentlichen Patientenrechten gehört, dass der Psychotherapeut den Patienten über Art und Umfang der Maßnahmen und der damit
verbundenen Risiken aufklärt und die Einwilligung dafür einholt. Durch die Aufklärung soll der Patient eine Vorstellung davon gewinnen,
worauf er sich einlässt, wenn er der Behandlung zustimmt.
Runterschlucken geht nicht …
Authors: Keller Jochen , Durwen Herbert F.
Published: September 2017

Schluckstörungen Um Nahrung aufzunehmen, muss der Schluckvorgang funktionieren. Diverse Erkrankungen, aber auch ein Tracheostoma
können den Schluckvorgang erheblich beeinträchtigen. Ein professionelles Dysphagiemanagement ist notwendig, um eine möglichst große
Lebensqualität wiederherzustellen.
Feasibility and Safety of Flexible Bronchoscopy Performed Via Tracheal Tubes in Patients With Tracheostomies
Authors: Ferrer Gustavo , Lee Chi Chan , Shaharyar Sameer , Perez Osman , Moor Molly , Gomez Frank , Tse Fanny , Feiz Hamid , Danckers Mauricio
Published: September 2017

Background:

Flexible bronchoscopy (FB) is commonly performed to assess, diagnose, and treat patients with respiratory disease, and is typically performed via transnasal or transoral approaches. FB can be performed via tracheal tubes in patients with tracheostomies; however, the safety and technical feasibility has not been established. The present study evaluates the safety and feasibility of performing FB via tracheal tubes.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 45 patients underwent 56 procedures involving FB via tracheal tubes at a single institution from November 2013 to November 2014 and were included in this retrospective case series.

Results:

Patients had a median age of 68 years (interquartile range, 56 to 82.5), and 51% were female. Most patients had 2 comorbidities (interquartile range, 1 to 3), with the most common being hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and chronic kidney disease. Upper airway obstruction was the primary indication for bronchoscopy in 40% of patients. Fifty-three percent of patients had a Shiley tube #6, [internal cannula diameter (ICD) of 6.5 mm]; tracheal tubes in the remaining patients ranged from Shiley #4 (ICD, 5.5 mm) to Shiley #8 (ICD, 8.5 mm). One patient did not complete the procedure due to severe hypertension (intraprocedural systolic blood pressure >180 mm Hg). During FB, no patients experienced cardiorespiratory arrest, arrhythmia, bleeding, or desaturation that required resuscitation. Eleven patients had a mucus plug leading to atelectasis during bronchoscopy, and 8 of these had a postprocedural chest x-ray finding of lung reexpansion.

Conclusion:

FB via tracheal tubes is a technically feasible and safe procedure that does not compromise patient oxygenation.
Intracranial Foreign Body in a Patient With Paranoid Schizophrenia
Authors: Andereggen Lukas , Biétry Damien , Kottke Raimund , Andres Robert H.
Published: September 2017

Self-inflicted penetrating head injuries in patients with paranoid schizophrenia are an infrequent phenomenon. The authors report on a psychiatric patient who presented with epistaxis. Computed tomography showed a nail passing from the nasal cavity into the frontal lobe. Given the proximity to large intracranial vessels, a craniotomy was performed and the nail was retracted. The patient later reported having hammered the nail into the nasal cavity with the intention to “kill the voice in my head.” Despite use of the latest imaging modalities, metal artifacts may have limited the assessment of vascular involvement. Surgical decision-making preventing secondary damage is crucial in them.
Credit risk in banks’ exposures to non‐financial firms
Authors: Accornero Matteo , Cascarino Giuseppe , Felici Roberto , Parlapiano Fabio , Sorrentino Alberto Maria
Published: September 2017

This paper outlines a framework based on microdata and a structural model to gauge credit risk in banks’ exposures to non‐financial firms. Sectoral risk factors are accounted for using a multi‐factor model. We use expected and unexpected losses as indicators of credit risk stemming from the corporate sector as a whole, and we put forward a measure of systemic risk relevance of economic sectors. We apply the model to the Italian economy, showing the sensitivity of credit risk indicators to different characteristics of default risk, cyclicality and concentration of economic sectors.
Remote ischemia affects the diameter of larger retinal vessels in normal persons
Authors: El Dabagh Y. , Petersen L. , Pedersen M. , Bek T.
Published: September 2017

Purpose

Remote ischemic conditioning (RIC) implies that repeated episodes of ischemia in one organ can protect another remote organ from the adverse consequences of ischemia. It remains to be elucidated whether the diameter response in retinal vessels can be used as a marker of RIC in general and whether the response can be used to predict the effect of RIC on the visual prognosis in diseases characterized by retinal ischemia.

Methods

In twenty normal persons aged 20–31 years the Dynamic Vessel Analyzer (DVA) was used to measure the resting diameter and diameter changes during isometric exercise and flicker stimulation before, immediately after, and one hour after RIC induced by transient ischemia in the left arm.

Results

The baseline diameter of retinal venules was reduced non‐significantly immediately after (p = 0.07) and significantly one hour after RIC (p < 0.009), whereas the baseline diameter of arterioles was unaffected by the intervention (p > 0.61). Arterial constriction induced by isometric exercise was significantly reduced immediately after RIC (p < 0.04), but not one hour after RIC (p > 0.99). None of the other diameter responsese were affected by RIC (p > 0.22 for all comparisons).

Conclusions

The diameter of large retinal vessels is affected one hour after controlled transient ischemia in the left arm. This indicates that the diameter response of retinal vessels could be a potential marker of ischemic conditioning in the body in general. The potential of remote ischemic conditioning as an intervention on vision threatening retinal diseases where ischemia is a part of the pathogenesis should be investigated.
Changes in normal ocular biometry and optics with age
Authors: Rozema J.
Published: September 2017

Ocular biometry can vary widely between subjects of similar gender and age. The intraocular interaction to achieve a particular refraction is almost unique for each individual eye. For this reason, a single eye model cannot adequately represent the range of keratometry and axial length data (e.g. about 0.5% of the general population is represented by the Gullstrand eye). This can have practical repercussions, e.g. for IOL power calculations. Moreover, ocular biometry is known to undergo many changes with age. Such modifications are very rapid and extensive in infants, towards a more stable situation in young adults, where changes are more gradual and almost uniquely lenticular in nature. While the changes themselves have been extensively described in literature, many underlying factors remain insufficiently understood. This makes any attempt beyond descriptive modelling (e.g. forecasting refractive evolution) a very challenging proposition for now. This talk highlights observed wide variations in biometry in the general population, introduces three main types of changes with age (emmetropization, myopization and lenticular changes), and discusses how changes in biometry contribute to the known evolution of refraction.
OCT and retinal ganglion cell layer
Authors: Borruat F.X.
Published: September 2017

Vision is highly dependent on both retinal ganglion cells (RGC) and their axons. Vision salvation depends on the prevention of RGC loss, and the time window to initiate a neuroprotective therapy after injury is not well defined in humans.

Recent developments in both OCT technology and software have allowed a precise and reproducible assessment of the RGC layer to be possible in vivo in humans. The goals of this presentation are two‐fold : first, to review the mechanisms of both axonal  and RGC degeneration; second, to discuss the time‐course of RGC loss after either antechiasmal or retrogeniculate lesions.

At the end of the talk, participants should understand the mechanisms and time‐course of RGC and axonal loss.
Anti‐VEGF intravitreal injections in the management of radiation maculopathy – Against
Authors: Papastefanou V.
Published: September 2017

Radiation maculopathy (ischaemic or oedematous) is a dose‐dependent complication after radiation therapy associated with vascular decompensation caused by radiation damage. It develops primarily in patients treated for choroidal melanoma or other intraocular tumours following plaque brachytherapy or proton beam radiotherapy though it has been reported following epimacular brachytherapy for AMD patients or regional radiotherapy in other cases of malignant neoplasia. Though anti‐VEGF treatment has been proposed in the management of radiation maculopathy there are inherent problems in its use. The pharmacokinetics of anti‐VEGF necessitate repeated, and an increased number of intravitreal injections. The efficacy of anti‐VEGF has been most robust when used preventively. Alternative treatments include macular laser, triamcinolone acetonide injections and more recently dexamethasone implants. The former had good anatomic results and the latter have comparable results with anti‐VEGF agents in smaller series with less injections. Dexamethasone implants also had a more favourable outcome in cases non‐responsive to bevacizumab. Laser could still have an important preventive role especially in the treatment of ischemic areas.
Crosslinking in infectious corneal ulcers and Terrien marginal degeneration
Authors: Barraquer R.I. , de Toledo J. Alvarez , Lamarca J.
Published: September 2017

Corneal collagen crosslinking (CXL) is an established safe and effective option in the treatment of early keratoconus. This presentation reviews the published evidence and personal experience with CXL in special indications.

The intrinsic toxicity of the oxidative CXL process, normally causing a temporarily acellular corneal stroma to a certain depth, implies an antiseptic potential on bacteria, fungi and amebae. This has been applied to refractory corneal infections with varying success. While most available evidence is anecdotal, some prospective studies appear to confirm the usefulness of CXL as an antimicrobial treatment.

CXL in keratoconus is usually applied to the central cornea and aims at preventing the progression of ectasia, with minor effect on curvature and refraction. However, our experience with CXL in cases of peripheral ectatic conditions such as Terrien's disease shows that, beyond stabilization of the process, a marked improvement in astigmatism is possible with a persistent effect after a long term follow up. The possible implications on the mechanism of action of CXL and the pathogenesis of ectasia will be discussed.
Endoscopic vitrectomy for stage 4 ROP
Authors: Wong S.C.
Published: September 2017

Introduction

Retinal detachment (RD) surgery in ROP is complex. Safe surgical access into the vitreous cavity is a challenge with a significant risk of requiring primary lensectomy with long term ocular morbidity risk. Endoscopic vitrectomy (Endo‐Vit) is a novel surgical approach, enabling a different intraoperative surgeon's perspective that may addresses some of the surgical challenges.

Purpose

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of Endo‐Vit for traction RD in ROP.

Setting

Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, London.

Methods

Single centre noncomparative consecutive series of surgery for stage 4 ROP. Inclusion criteria was stage 4A or 4B ROP, with stage 5 excluded.

Results

Eighteen eyes of 14 patients were included. Mean gestational age, birth weight and follow‐up were 25.3 weeks, 794g and 3 months, respectively. RD stage was 4A in 7 eyes, and 4B in 11 eyes. Median age at primary Endo‐Vit was 45.8 weeks post menstrual age. Median number of surgeries was 1. Overall, primary retinal re‐attachment was 89%, 100% in 4A, and 82% in 4B. None required primary lensectomy.

Conclusions

Endo‐Vit reduces the need for primary lensectomy in stage 4 ROP compared to standard techniques, with favourable anatomic outcomes.
UBM evaluation of mechanisms that drive intraocular pressure (IOP) decrease after ultrasound ciliary plasty (UCP) with high intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU), towards a new explanation of the role of uveoscleral pathway outflow
Authors: Roquancourt T. , Aptel F. , Rouland J.F.
Published: September 2017

Purpose

Ultrasound ciliary plasty technique is a new therapeutic approach in refractory glaucoma under maximal hypotensive medication, with coagulation of ciliary body. Our UBM evaluation found an atrophy of the ciliary body (ACB) as well as an widening of the uveo‐scleral pathway (UP). We evaluated the correlation between UBM observations and IOP decrease.

Methods

We conducted a prospective, observational, monocentric study, with 24 eyes from 19 patients, recruited between July 2015 and October 2016, undergoing systematic pre‐operative and postoperative visits at D7, M1, M3 with IOP measurement and UBM in 8 axes (the 6 ultrasound‐treated zones and 2 non‐treated zones).The evaluation of the UBM pictures was conducted by 2 experienced surgeons, analyzing the existence or absence of a de novo UP as well as the ACB.

Results

ACB was found to be significant in UBM pictures and predominant in the therapeutic success group (60% of the axes analyzed for at least one of the reviewers for patients with IOP decrease maintained at M3 follow‐up versus 46% of axis in case of failure (p = 0.17).An opening of the UP was observed in the UBM pictures, observable in 53% of axes with patients in success group versus 45% of axis in patients whose IOP had failed to decrease. UBM found a gradual narrowing of the possible UP during the follow‐up in more than half of the axes analyzed irrespective of the IOP result.

Conclusions

The mechanisms of action responsible for IOP decrease after UCP have not been studied in great enough detail so far. Our study highlights several mechanisms contributing to IOP decrease: on the one hand, the decrease of the aqueous humor production by means of atrophy of the ciliary processes; and on the other, a second ‐ and less expected phenomenon ‐ of an increase in aqueous humour outflow due to a wider uveoscleral pathway, clearly visible in UBM pictures.
A Whole or Two Halves: Serving Size Framing Effects and Consumer Healthfulness Perceptions
Authors: Bryant Andrew , Hill Ronald Paul
Published: September 2017

Our research shows that serving sizes influence perceptions of healthfulness of restaurant foods. This context is important as more restaurants begin to post nutrition information on menus. Yet, some restaurateurs use serving sizes smaller than what consumers normally consume at a sitting. We find that when nutritional information is framed using serving sizes cut in half, foods are perceived to be healthier. In addition, serving size framing may differentially affect consumers with various levels of dietary concern. Our results reveal that serving size interacts with dietary concern in a curvilinear manner.
Donald Trump Shoots the Match
Authors: Mazer Sharon
Published: September 2017

Over a decade after he faced off against WWE owner and quintessential heel Vince McMahon in WrestleMania’s “Battle of the Billionaires,” Donald J. Trump is President of the United States. Professional wrestling makes a show of American values. The bodies are huge (“yuge!”), the hyperbole is excessive, and kayfabe rules. Wrestling is about heat, not truth. It’s never a fair fight. The guy with the money decides who wins, who loses, and on what terms. The audience knows this and plays along regardless. These are the people who voted for Trump. This is their, and his, ethos—the unreal violence of the game now the all too real brutality of the new regime.
A new Eocyzicus (Branchiopoda: Spinicaudata) from Taiwan, with a review of the genus
Authors: ROGERS D. CHRISTOPHER , CHANG TSO CHIA , WANG YUNG-CHUAN
Published: September 2017

We present the first record of Eocyzicus from Taiwan. Eocyzicus taiwanensis n. sp. can be distinguished from all other Eocyzicus species by the form of the claspers, the telson and the cercopods. This new species is so far known only from the type locality, which is a series of flood irrigated garlic fields in the Tainan District. The genus is reviewed superficially and revised conservatively. We recognize 19 Eocyzicus species, three nomina dubia and inquirendae, and 71 synonyms.
Global cities and the geographical transfer of value
Authors: Parnreiter Christof
Published: September 2017

The central argument of this article is that global cities are, due to their clustering of producer service firms, critical governance nodes in global production networks. More in particular, the article scrutinises the role of producer service firms in uneven development and, especially, in the geographical transfer of value (Hadjimichalis, 1984). Because the direct as well as the indirect mechanisms through which value is transferred geographically require the intervention of producer service firms, global cities can be theorised as governance nodes for centripetal wealth transfers along global commodity chains. Moreover, and in the context of the persisting criticism that the global city concept has a bias towards Northern/Western cities, the article argues that the claim that global cities are critical places for the organisation of uneven development also holds for cities beyond ‘the usual suspects’. Referring to cases of how producer service firms in Hamburg and Mexico City erect entry barriers to protect their clients from competition and of how they shape labour relations at the expense of employees, I have maintained that governance is, as Sassen (2010: 158) has argued, indeed ‘embedded’ into the services provided. From that follows that even ‘minor’ global cities are strategic governance places from where the transfer of wealth towards the centres of the world economy is organised.
Targeting environmental infrastructures, international law, and civilians in the new Middle Eastern wars
Authors: Sowers Jeannie L , Weinthal Erika , Zawahri Neda
Published: September 2017

Research in conflict studies and environmental security has largely focused on the mechanisms through which the environment and natural resources foster conflict or contribute to peacebuilding. An understudied area of research, however, concerns the ways in which warfare has targeted civilian infrastructure with long-term effects on human welfare and ecosystems. This article seeks to fill this gap. We focus on better understanding the conflict destruction of water, sanitation, waste, and energy infrastructures, which we term environmental infrastructures, by drawing on an author-compiled database of the post-2011 wars in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). While research across the social sciences has examined the targeting of civilians and environmental destruction during wars, including the issue of urbicide, we expand the study of targeting environmental infrastructure to (1) examine the role of different types of actors (international vs. subnational), (2) document the type of infrastructure targeted, form of attack, and impacts, and (3) situate increased targeting of environmental infrastructure in the changing context of war-making in the MENA. Comparatively analyzing the conflict zones of Libya, Syria, and Yemen, we show that targeting environmental infrastructure is an increasingly prevalent form of war-making in the MENA, with long-term implications for rebuilding states, sustaining livelihoods, and resolving conflicts.
Personal Profile Settings as Cultural Frames: Facebook Versus Vkontakte
Authors: Zhao Shanyang , Shchekoturov Aleksandr V. , Shchekoturova Svetlana D.
Published: September 2017

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in cross-country comparative studies of multiple social networking site (SNS) platforms, and the aim of these studies is to uncover the impact of culture on the use of SNSs. The present article seeks to advance this line of research by drawing a distinction between platform difference and usage difference. It argues that culture affects both the design and use of an SNS platform. Through comparing and contrasting the personal profile settings of Facebook and Vkontakte, the article shows that the design features of these two SNS platforms reflect the cultural characteristics of the countries from which the platforms originated. The cultural patterns that are encoded in the design features of the platforms inevitably influence the use of the platforms. This finding suggests the need to control for platform difference while examining the impact of culture on usage difference in cross-country studies of multiple SNS platforms.