bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development and validation of a fetal genotyping assay with potential for noninvasive prenatal diagnosis of hereditary hearing loss
Authors: Chen Ying , Liu Yiqian , Wang Benjing , Mao Jun , Wang Ting , Ye Kan , Ye Yanlin , Cram David S. , Li Hong
Published: November 2016

Objective

Inherited non‐syndromic hearing loss (NSHL) is a common sensory disorder that afflicts otherwise healthy individuals. The aim of the study was to evaluate the performance of circulating single molecule amplification and re‐sequencing technology (cSMART) for non‐invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) of NSHL.

Method

Neonatal inheritance of NSHL mutations was determined from bloodspots using SNaPshot genotyping. NIPT of cell‐free DNA for fetal NSHL mutations in the GJB2, GJB3 and SLC26A4 genes was performed by a multiplex cSMART assay. The percentage of mutant alleles was used to deduce fetal DNA fractions and assign fetal genotypes.

Results

A total of 25 plasma samples selected with different fetal NSHL genotypes were coded and retrospectively analyzed by NIPT. Three normal fetuses, 18 carrier fetuses comprising seven GJB2 109G>A, four GBJ2 235delC, three GJB2 299‐300delAT and four SLC26A4 IVS7‐2A>G heterozygotes and four affected fetuses comprising two GJB2 109G>A homozygotes, one GBJ2 235delC homozygote and one compound GJB2 235delC/299‐300delAT heterozygote were identified. All 25 fetal genotypes determined by the cSMART assay were concordant with neonatal genotypes.

Conclusion

The cSMART assay applied to cell‐free DNA isolated from maternal plasma of pregnant women is highly accurate for calling correct fetal NSHL genotypes. © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Determination of percolation threshold and electrical conductivity of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF)/short carbon fiber (SCF) composites: effect of SCF aspect ratio
Authors: Ram Ranvijai , Rahaman Mostafizur , Aldalbahi Ali , Khastgir Dipak
Published: November 2016

Composites of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) and short carbon fibers (SCFs) with different aspect ratios of the SCFs were prepared by the solution casting technique. The electrical percolation thresholds of the composites are highly influenced by the SCF aspect ratio calculated using both the Sigmoidal Boltzmann model and classical percolation theory. It was observed that the percolation threshold of PVDF/SCF composites decreases with an increase in the aspect ratio of the SCFs in the PVDF matrix. Different theoretical models were used to check the alignment of the SCFs in the PVDF matrix. The applicability of the theoretical models was tested to predict the composition‐dependent electrical conductivity at different SCF loadings and aspect ratios and the predictions were compared with experimental results. The effect of the fiber aspect ratio on the AC electrical conductivity was also investigated. Finally, the transparency of the composites was tested with the help of UV−visible spectroscopy and exhibits an SCF loading dependence in the PVDF matrix. © 2016 Society of Chemical Industry
Screening for potential serum‐based proteomic biomarkers for human type 2 diabetes mellitus using MALDI‐TOF MS
Authors: Meng Qiutao , Ge Siqi , Yan Wenhua , Li Ruisheng , Dou Jingtao , Wang Haibing , Wang Baoan , Ma Qingwei , Zhou Yong , Song Manshu , Yu Xinwei , Wang Hao , Yang Xinghua , Liu Fen , Alzain Mohamed Ali , Yan Yuxiang , Zhang Ling , Wu Lijuan , Zhao Feifei , He Yan , Guo Xiuhua , Chen Feng , Xu Weizhuo , Garcia Monique , Menon Desmond , Wang Youxin , Mu Yiming , Wang Wei
Published: November 2016

Background

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a complex, pandemic disease contributing towards the global burden of health issues. To date, there are no simple clinical tests for the early detection of T2DM.

Method

To identify potential peptide biomarkers for such applications, 406 sera of T2DM patients (n = 206) and healthy controls (n = 200) are analyzed by using MALDI‐TOF MS with a cross‐sectional case‐control design.

Result

Six peptides (peaks m/z 1452.9, 1692.8, 1946.0, 2115.1, 2211.0 and 4053.6) are identified as candidate biomarkers for T2DM. A diagnostic model constructed with six peptides is able to discriminate T2DM patients from healthy controls, with an accuracy of 82.20%, sensitivity of 82.50%, and specificity of 77.80% in the validation set. Peptide peaks m/z 1452.9 and 1692.8 are identified as fragments of the complement C3f, while peptide peaks m/z 1946.0, 2115.1, and 2211.0 are identified as the fragments of kininogen 1 isoform 1 precursor.

Conclusion

This study reinforces proteomic analyses as a potential technique for defining significant clinical peptide biomarkers, providing a simple and convenient diagnostic model for T2DM in clinical examination.
Does the measurement take place when nobody observes it?
Authors: Gurvitz Shmuel
Published: November 2016

We consider non‐selective continuous measurements of a particle tunneling to a reservoir of finite band‐width (Λ). The particle is continuously monitored by frequent projective measurements (“quantum trajectory”), separated by a time‐interval τ. A simple analytical expression for the decay rate has been obtained. For Markovian reservoirs (), no effect of the measurements is found. Otherwise for a finite Λ, the decay rate always depends on the measurement time τ. This result is compared with alternative calculations, with no intermediate measurements, but when the measurement device is included in the Schrödinger evolution. We found that the detector affects the system by the decoherence rate (), related to the detector's signal. Although both treatments are different, the final results become very close for . This τ corresponds to the minimal time for which the detector's signal can be distinguished by an “observer”. This indicates a fundamental role of information in quantum motion and can be used for the extension of the quantum trajectory method for non‐Markovian environments.
A novel sample size formula for the weighted log‐rank test under the proportional hazards cure model
Authors: Xiong Xiaoping , Wu Jianrong
Published: November 2016

The treatment of cancer has progressed dramatically in recent decades, such that it is no longer uncommon to see a cure or log‐term survival in a significant proportion of patients with various types of cancer. To adequately account for the cure fraction when designing clinical trials, the cure models should be used. In this article, a sample size formula for the weighted log‐rank test is derived under the fixed alternative hypothesis for the proportional hazards cure models. Simulation showed that the proposed sample size formula provides an accurate estimation of sample size for designing clinical trials under the proportional hazards cure models.
Global adaptive regulation of feedforward nonlinear time‐delay systems by output feedback
Authors: Jia Xianglei , Xu Shengyuan , Cui Guozeng , Zhang Baoyong , Ma Qian
Published: November 2016

The problem of global adaptive state regulation is investigated via output feedback for uncertain feedforward nonlinear time‐delay systems. Compared with existing results, our control schemes can be applicable to more general nonlinear time‐delay systems because of combining the low‐gain scaling approach with the backstepping method. In particular, we allow that there exist uncertain output function and uncertain growth rate imposed on nonlinear terms. Also, one considers a class of nonlinear systems with main‐axis delay. By the Lyapunov–Krasovskii theorem, delay‐independent controllers are proposed by constructing novel low‐gain observers driven by system input, to regulate the states of original system while all the closed‐loop signals are globally bounded. Furthermore, two examples are given to illustrate the usefulness of our results. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Asymmetric inner wedge group sequential tests with applications to verifying whether effective drug concentrations are similar in adults and children
Authors: Hampson Lisa V. , Fisch Roland , Van Linh M. , Jaki Thomas
Published: November 2016

Extrapolating from information available on one patient group to support conclusions about another is common in clinical research. For example, the findings of clinical trials, often conducted in highly selective patient cohorts, are routinely extrapolated to wider populations by policy makers. Meanwhile, the results of adult trials may be used to support conclusions about the effects of a medicine in children. For example, if the effective concentration of a drug can be assumed to be similar in adults and children, an appropriate paediatric dosing rule may be found by ‘bridging’, that is, by matching the adult effective concentration. However, this strategy may result in children receiving an ineffective or hazardous dose if, in fact, effective concentrations differ between adults and children. When there is uncertainty about the equality of effective concentrations, some pharmacokinetic–pharmacodynamic data may be needed in children to verify that differences are small. In this paper, we derive optimal group sequential tests that can be used to verify this assumption efficiently. Asymmetric inner wedge tests are constructed that permit early stopping to accept or reject an assumption of similar effective drug concentrations in adults and children. Asymmetry arises because the consequences of under‐ and over‐dosing may differ. We show how confidence intervals can be obtained on termination of these tests and illustrate the small sample operating characteristics of designs using simulation. Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Facile Synthesis of Monodispersed Polysulfide Spheres for Building Structural Colors with High Color Visibility and Broad Viewing Angle
Authors: Li Feihu , Tang Bingtao , Wu Suli , Zhang Shufen
Published: November 2016

The synthesis and assembly of monodispersed colloidal spheres are currently the subject of extensive investigation to fabricate artificial structural color materials. However, artificial structural colors from general colloidal crystals still suffer from the low color visibility and strong viewing angle dependence which seriously hinder their practical application in paints, colorimetric sensors, and color displays. Herein, monodispersed polysulfide (PSF) spheres with intrinsic high refractive index (as high as 1.858) and light‐absorbing characteristics are designed, synthesized through a facile polycondensation and crosslinking process between sodium disulfide and 1,2,3‐trichloropropane. Owing to their high monodispersity, sufficient surface charge, and good dispersion stability, the PSF spheres can be assembled into large‐scale and high‐quality 3D photonic crystals. More importantly, high structural color visibility and broad viewing angle are easily achieved because the unique features of PSF can remarkably enhance the relative reflectivity and eliminate the disturbance of scattering and background light. The results of this study provide a simple and efficient strategy to create structural colors with high color visibility, which is very important for their practical application.
Cerium oxide nanoparticles in neuroprotection and considerations for efficacy and safety
Authors: Rzigalinski Beverly A. , Carfagna Charles S. , Ehrich Marion
Published: November 2016

Cerium oxide nanoparticles have widespread use in the materials industry, and have recently come into consideration for biomedical use due to their potent regenerative antioxidant properties. Given that the brain is one of the most highly oxidative organs in the body, it is subject to some of the greatest levels of oxidative stress, particularly in neurodegenerative disease. Therefore, cerium oxide nanoparticles are currently being investigated for efficacy in several neurodegenerative disorders and have shown promising levels of neuroprotection. This review discusses the basis for cerium oxide nanoparticle use in neurodegenerative disease and its hypothesized mechanism of action. The review focuses on an up‐to‐date summary ofin vivowork with cerium oxide nanoparticles in animal models of neurodegenerative disease. Additionally, we examine the current state of information regarding biodistribution, toxicity, and safety for cerium oxide nanoparticles at thein vivolevel. Finally, we discuss future directions that are necessary if this nanopharmaceutical is to move up from the bench to the bedside.WIREs Nanomed Nanobiotechnol2017, 9:e1444. doi: 10.1002/wnan.1444

This article is categorized under:

Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Nanomedicine for Neurological Disease

Toxicology and Regulatory Issues in Nanomedicine > Toxicology of Nanomaterials
A Mathematical Approach to a More Accurate Determination of Critical Micelle Concentration and Other Thermodynamic Parameters of 14‐2‐14 Gemini Surfactant in Water–Organic Solvent Mixed Media at Variable Temperatures
Authors: Sood Ashwani Kumar , Pritambir  , Aggarwal Meenu
Published: November 2016

To explore how the solvent characteristics influence the self‐aggregation of the cationic gemini surfactant dimethylene‐1,2‐bis(tetradecyldimethylammonium bromide) (14‐2‐14) and to obtain various energetic parameters, conductometric experiments were performed on the binary mixtures in the presence of commonly used organic solvents; formamide (FA), acetonitrile (AN) and 2‐methoxyethanol (ME) in aqueous solutions at varying temperatures (298.15–323.15 K) and compositions. The procedure suggested by Carpena et al. has been utilized to analyze conductivity–concentration plots in order to obtain critical micelle concentration (CMC) and degree of counterion dissociation (α) of the micelles. This method provides more accurate results as compared to conventional treatments, and the experimental error for the evaluation of micellar parameters is reduced significantly. The results revealed that, although the process of micellization becomes less favorable with the increase in composition of FA, AN and ME in mixed systems, the increase in CMC at compositions lower than 20% (v/v) of the organic solvents is relatively less, indicating that water character is dominant in the bulk phase. As the enthalpy of micellization became more negative, the corresponding entropy change became less positive and enthalpy–entropy compensation phenomenon has been observed for 14‐2‐14 in all the mixtures within the studied temperature range.
Guided growth: Mechanism and reversibility of modulation
Authors: Gottliebsen Martin , Shiguetomi-Medina Juan Manuel , Rahbek Ole , Møller-Madsen Bjarne
Published: November 2016

In paediatric orthopaedics, deformities and discrepancies in length of bones are key problems that commonly need to be addressed in daily practice. An understanding of the physiology behind developing bones is crucial for planning treatment. Modulation of the growing bone can be performed in a number of ways. Here, we discuss the principles and mechanisms behind the techniques. Historically, the first procedures were destructive in their mechanism but reversible techniques were later developed with stapling of the growth plate being the gold standard treatment for decades. It has historically been used for both angular deformities and control of overall bone length. Today, tension band plating has partially overtaken stapling but this technique also carries a risk of complications. The diverging screws in these implants are probably mainly useful for hemiepiphysiodesis. We also discuss new minimally invasive techniques that may become important in future clinical practice.
Sanctuaire à répit ou inhumations clandestines ? Le cas des sépultures des xviie–xviiiesiècles de très jeunes immatures de la chapelle Saint-Laurent de la Capelette (Marseille, Bouches-du-Rhône)
Authors: Parmentier S. , Sillano B.
Published: November 2016

La chapelle Saint-Laurent de la Capelette (Marseille) a fait l'objet d'une fouille archéologique préventive réalisée par l'Inrap. La fonction funéraire de cet édifice, construit en 1654, est attestée dans les archives, d'abord par la mention d'inhumations réalisées à l'intérieur jusqu'en 1776, puis par la création d'un cimetière à l'extérieur, fonctionnant jusqu'au milieu du xixesiècle. La fouille de l'espace intérieur de la chapelle a mis au jour 24 inhumations primaires, datées entre le milieu du xviiesiècle et le début du xviiiesiècle. Ces inhumations, en pleine terre ou en cercueil, ont livré les restes de 25 individus parmi lesquels de nombreux fœtus et périnataux. La forte proportion d'inhumations de très jeunes immatures à l'intérieur de la chapelle permet de s'interroger sur la fonction de cette dernière et notamment sur une possible utilisation comme un « sanctuaire à répit ». Cependant, il convient de rester prudent quant à son utilisation comme un sanctuaire à répit au sens strict. En effet, il est tout à fait possible que des enfants morts puissent avoir été amenés dans la chapelle afin d'attendre le miracle du retour à la vie leur permettant ainsi d'être baptisés et ensuite enterrés dans le sol de la nef. Toutefois, l'absence d'un prêtre résidant sur place, jusqu'au début du xviiiesiècle, peut aussi avoir facilité la pratique d'inhumations clandestines réalisées, avec ou sans l'accord du fossoyeur, par les parents soucieux du devenir de leur enfant décédé.
Structural stability of the inverse limit of endomorphisms
Authors: Berger Pierre , Kocsard Alejandro
Published: November 2016

We prove that every endomorphism which satisfies Axiom A and the strong transversality conditions is

C^{1}

-inverse limit structurally stable. These conditions were conjectured to be necessary and sufficient. This result is applied to the study of unfolding of some homoclinic tangencies. This also achieves a characterization of

C^{1}

-inverse limit structurally stable covering maps.

Nous montrons qu'un endomorphisme a son extension naturelle qui est

C^{1}

-structurellement stable s'il vérifie l'axiome A et la condition de transversalité forte. Ces conditions étaient conjecturées nécessaires et suffisantes. Ce résultat est appliqué à l'étude des déploiements des tangences homoclines. Aussi, cela accomplit la description des recouvrements dont l'extension naturelle est

C^{1}

-structurellement stable.
Predictors of mortality of low birth weight newborns during the neonatal period: A cohort study in two health districts of Burkina Faso
Authors: Coulibaly Abou , Baguiya Adama , Millogo Tieba , Meda Ivlabèhiré Bertrand , Koueta Fla , Kouanda Seni
Published: November 2016

Objective

To determine the neonatal mortality rate among low birth weight infants, and identify the predictors of mortality during the neonatal period in two health districts in Burkina Faso.

Methods

A prospective cohort study of live born babies delivered in health centers that weighed less than 2500 g. Their survival status at the end of the neonatal period was measured and analyzed using multivariate analysis in a Cox proportional hazards model.

Results

The study included 341 newborns (146 newborns from Kaya health district and 195 from Dori health district). The mean weight was 2158.2 ± 287.1 g. Neonatal mortality was 53 per 1000 live births (18 deaths and 323 survivors), while the incidence density was 1.93 per 1000 persons/days (95% CI, 1.2–3.1). After adjustment, the factors significantly associated with neonatal death included preterm infants (HR 8.0; 95% CI, 2.4–26.5), the mother's history of infant death (HR 14.3; 95% CI, 4.1–49.7), young maternal age (HR 0.9; 95% CI, 0.8–0.9), immunization status (HR 5,1; 95% CI, 1.8–14.2), and infant birth weight (HR 0.8; 95% CI, 0.7–0.9).

Conclusion

Neonatal mortality among low birth weight infants in the study population was 53 per 1000 live births. This is higher than the 28 per 1000 live births reported by the 2010 Demographic Health Survey for the general population. Therefore, it is necessary to follow infants with low birth weight after they leave health centers.
Rate of and factors associated with indications for cesarean deliveries: Results of a national review in Burkina Faso
Authors: Meda Ivlabèhiré Bertrand , Millogo Tieba , Baguiya Adama , Ouédraogo/Nikiema Laeticia , Coulibaly Abou , Kouanda Seni
Published: November 2016

Objective

To determine the prevalence of cesarean deliveries in Burkina Faso, analyze the indications for them and the outcomes, and identify factors associated with non‐absolute maternal indications for the procedure, as opposed to major obstetric interventions performed to save a woman's life.

Methods

In a cross‐sectional study, we selected and analyzed cesarean deliveries among those most recently performed between May 2009 and April 2010 in all facilities in Burkina Faso. To identify the factors associated with non‐absolute maternal indications, we used generalized estimating equations to take into account the clustering of data at the hospital level.

Results

The proportion of births by cesarean delivery was 1.5%, with regional variations ranging from 0.8% to 4.5%. They were performed mainly for absolute maternal indications (54.8%). Cesarean deliveries for non‐absolute maternal indications were statistically more frequent in private hospitals (OR 2.2; 95% CI, 1.2–4.0), among women in urban areas (OR 1.6; 95% CI, 1.0–2.4), during scheduled cesareans, and in the absence of use of the partogram.

Conclusion

This study confirms the small proportion of cesarean deliveries in Burkina, the disparity between urban and rural areas, and the relative preponderance of absolute maternal indications for cesarean delivery.
Trends and changes in home deliveries in Kassena–Nankana districts in northern Ghana: Results from repeated cross‐sectional surveys
Authors: Millogo Tieba , Musenge Eustasius , Azongo Daniel K. , Kouanda Seni , Oduro Abraham Rexford
Published: November 2016

Objective

To investigate trends and changes in home deliveries in northern Ghana following the implementation of interventions targeting common barriers to utilization of health services.

Methods

Data collected through repeated cross‐sectional surveys conducted in the Kassena–Nankana east and west districts from 2003–2009 were used in a secondary analysis. All childbirths that occurred in this period were included. Univariate time series were used to describe trends in home deliveries. Significant trends were investigated using the χ2 test for trends, and changes in inequalities across subgroups were assessed by fitting simple linear regressions.

Results

A total of 25 539 deliveries were recorded, of which 58.1% occurred at home. The incidence of home deliveries declined from 69.1% in 2003 to 36.5% in 2009 (P<0.001). This declining pattern was consistently observed within all subgroups defined by wealth index, and educational and residential status. Larger declines were observed in poor and rural residents compared with rich and urban residents (P<0.001).

Conclusion

The incidence of home deliveries halved during the study period and there was a significant reduction in previous inequalities.
Factors associated with fresh stillbirths: A hospital‐based, matched, case–control study in Burkina Faso
Authors: Millogo Tieba , Ouédraogo Gautier H. , Baguiya Adama , Meda Ivlabèhiré Bertrand , Kouanda Seni , Sondo Blaise
Published: November 2016

Objective

To determine the risk factors for fresh stillbirths in hospitals in Burkina Faso.

Methods

A hospital‐based, matched (1:1), case–control study was conducted from July to August 2014 in 50 hospitals across the country. All cases of stillbirth that occurred during this period in the participating facilities were included, and an appropriate control was selected for each case from the same health facility. Cases and controls were matched for gestational age. Conditional logistic regression with robust standard errors was used to compute both unadjusted and adjusted conditional odds ratios.

Results

Cases were 67% less likely to have been delivered by a midwife compared with a nonmidwife attendant (ACOR = 0.33; 95% CI, 0.12–0.84;P= 0.02). Use of a partograph to monitor labor lowered the odds of fresh stillbirth by 82% (ACOR = 0.18; 95% CI, 0.05–0.61;P= 0.006). Mothers who had been transferred from another health facility were five times more likely to experience a fresh stillbirth (ACOR = 5.36; 95% CI, 2.02–14.23;P< 0.001).

Conclusion

Quality and timing of intrapartum obstetric care is key to preventing fresh stillbirths. Easy to implement and available interventions, such as use of a partograph for all laboring women and improving the referral system, have the potential to save the lives of many fetuses.
Prenatal care and pregnancy outcomes: A cross‐sectional study in Luanda, Angola
Authors: Nimi Tazi , Fraga Sílvia , Costa Diogo , Campos Paulo , Barros Henrique
Published: November 2016

Objective

To describe prenatal care in Angolan women delivered at a large tertiary care unit, and to explore the association between prenatal care and selected perinatal outcomes.

Methods

We conducted a cross‐sectional study between December 2012 and February 2013, involving 995 women aged 13–46 years, delivered at Lucrécia Paím Maternity, Luanda. Trained interviewers collected information on timing, frequency, place, and satisfaction with prenatal care; sociodemographic and clinical characteristics; birth weight; and gestational age. Logistic regression models were fitted, and odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals (OR, 95%CI) estimated.

Results

Quantitatively inadequate prenatal care (< 4 visits) was more common in younger, less educated, poorer women, followed in public institutions, and those who felt more dissatisfied with care. More visits, both in primiparas and multiparas, were independently associated with more cesarean deliveries. After adjustment, having fewer than four visits was significantly associated with low birth weight (OR 2.00; 95% CI, 1.15–3.50) and preterm delivery (OR 2.74; 95% CI, 1.69–4.44 for 2–4 visits); similar associations were found regarding late entrance into care.

Conclusion

Early entrance into prenatal care and the recommended number of visits are major determinants of mode of delivery and pregnancy outcomes, constituting targets to improve perinatal health.
Initial management of postpartum hemorrhage: A cohort study in Benin and Mali
Authors: Tort Julie , Traoré Mamadou , Hounkpatin Benjamin , Bodin Cécile , Rozenberg Patrick , Dumont Alexandre
Published: November 2016

Objective

To determine the components of initial management associated with a decreased risk of severe postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) in Benin and Mali.

Methods

A cohort study was conducted between May 2013 and September 2014 that included all women who delivered vaginally in seven participating centers and who presented excessive bleeding after birth. Severe PPH was defined as PPH that required surgical treatment (vascular ligature and/or hysterectomy), and/or blood transfusion, and/or transfer to an intensive care unit, and/or an outcome of maternal death. Logistic regression was used to identify the components of initial PPH management that were associated with severe PPH, adjusting for case mix.

Results

A total of 223 women presented a primary PPH presumably caused by uterine atony. Among those, 88 (39.5%) had severe PPH. Nearly one‐third of women (30.4%) had a late injection of oxytocin (> 10 minutes) after PPH diagnosis or no injection. Oxytocin injection within 10 minutes after the PPH diagnosis was significantly associated with a decreased risk of severe PPH (adjusted OR = 0.3; 95% CI, 0.14–0.77).

Conclusion

Decrease in the delays in oxytocin administration is a key determinant to improve maternal outcomes related to PPH in this context.
A case–control study of risk factors for surgical site infection after cesarean delivery in eastern Burkina Faso
Authors: Kaboré Boezemwendé , Soudouem Georges , Seck Ibrahima , Millogo Tieba , Evariste Yaméogo Wambi Maurice , Kouanda Seni
Published: November 2016

Objective

To identify the risk factors for surgical site infection after cesarean delivery in a rural area in eastern Burkina Faso.

Methods

A matched case–control study was conducted in Fada N'Gourma Regional Hospital Center and the Diapaga Medical Center with Surgical Antenna using data from 2011–2014. A total of 99 cases of surgical site infection after cesarean delivery were included in the study. Each case was matched with a control patient similar for age, admission date, and facility where the cesarean took place. Risk factors were identified using conditional logistic regression.

Results

Multivariate analysis identified hyperthermia at admission (OR 2.37; P = 0.035), the presence of caput succedaneum in newborns (OR 7.07; P = 0.001), and difficult delivery (OR 3.69; P = 0. 019) as risk factors for surgical site infection.

Conclusion

Provision of quality prenatal care, use of the partograph during labor, and the responsiveness of health workers during labor can reduce surgical site infection after cesarean delivery.
Determinants of non‐medically indicated cesarean deliveries in Burkina Faso
Authors: Kaboré Charles , Ridde Valéry , Kouanda Seni , Agier Isabelle , Queuille Ludovic , Dumont Alexandre
Published: November 2016

Objective

To identify the factors associated with non‐medically indicated cesarean deliveries (NMIC) in Burkina Faso in centers where user fees for cesarean delivery were partially removed.

Methods

We carried out a criteria‐based audit in 22 referral hospitals, using data from a 6‐month prospective observational study, to assess the proportion of NMIC. Multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to identify factors associated with NMIC.

Results

The decision of cesarean delivery was not medically indicated in 24% of cases. The factors independently associated with NMIC were urban residence (adjusted OR 1.55; 95% CI, 1.12–2.12; P=0.006), spouse's occupation other than breeder or farmer (aOR varying from 1.77 [95% CI, 1.19–2.62] to 2.15 [95% CI, 1.38–3.32] according to the profession), and cesarean decided by a general practitioner (aOR 1.61; 95% CI, 1.13–2.30; P=0.009).

Conclusion

The high percentage of unnecessary cesarean deliveries is in contrast to the unmet needs of women who still deliver outside health facilities. NMIC is associated with both socioeconomic determinants and medical factors. Hence, interventions are needed to improve the skills of healthcare professionals and awareness of women concerning the risks associated with unnecessary cesarean delivery.
The role of transportation to access maternal care services for women in rural Bangladesh and Burkina Faso: A mixed methods study
Authors: Alam Nazmul , Chowdhury Mahbub Elahi , Kouanda Seni , Seppey Mathieu , Alam Anadil , Savadogo Justin Ragnessi , Sia Drissa , Fournier Pierre
Published: November 2016

Objective

To understand the role of transportation in accessing health care during pregnancy, delivery, and the postpartum period among women in rural Bangladesh and Burkina Faso.

Methods

An exploratory mixed methods study was conducted in Mymensingh district in Bangladesh and Kaya district in Burkina Faso. We recruited 300 women from Bangladesh and 340 from Burkina Faso with a delivery outcome within one year of interview. Key informant interviews were conducted with 19 participants and 12 focus group discussions took place with attendees in selected community clinics.

Results

Of the interviewees, 45.7% in Bangladesh and 73.2% in Burkina Faso reported having had health complications during their last pregnancy, delivery, or postpartum period. Of all women, 42.7% in Bangladesh and 67.4% in Burkina Faso sought facility care for their complications. Facility‐based delivery was much higher in Burkina Faso (87.7%) than Bangladesh (38.2%). Literacy, transport availability, transportation costs, and travel time were associated with care seeking behavior.

Conclusion

Lack of reliable transportation was reported as a significant barrier to accessing care during pregnancy, delivery, and postpartum by women in Bangladesh and Burkina Faso. Effort should be made to improve access to emergency obstetric care, and transport intervention should be strengthened.
Availability and utilization of obstetric and newborn care in Guinea: A national needs assessment
Authors: Baguiya Adama , Meda Ivlabèhiré Bertrand , Millogo Tieba , Kourouma Mamadou , Mouniri Halima , Kouanda Seni
Published: November 2016

Objective

To assess the availability and utilization of emergency obstetric and neonatal care (EmONC) in Guinea given the high maternal and neonatal mortality rates.

Methods

We used the Guinea 2012 needs assessment data collected via a national cross‐sectional census of health facilities conducted from September to October 2012. All public, private, and faith‐based health facilities that performed at least one delivery during the period of the study were included.

Results

A total of 502 health facilities were visited, of which 81 were hospitals. Only 15 facilities were classified as fully functioning EmONC facilities, all of which were reference hospitals. None of the first level health facilities were fully functioning EmONC facilities. The ratio of availability of EmONC was one fully functioning EmONC facility for 745 415 inhabitants. The institutional delivery rate was 32.3% and the proportion of all births in EmONC facilities was 7.1%. Met need for EmONC was 12.2%. Among 201 maternal deaths in EmONC facilities, 69 were due to indirect causes. The intrapartum and very early neonatal death rate was 39 deaths per 1000 live births.

Conclusion

The study showed low availability of EmONC services and underutilization of the available services. Further investigation is needed to evaluate the effect of the current policy of user fees exemption for deliveries and prenatal care in Guinea.
The Ancient City
Authors: Zuiderhoek Arjan
Published: November 2016

Greece and Rome were quintessentially urban societies. Ancient culture, politics and society arose and developed in the context of the polis and the civitas. In modern scholarship, the ancient city has been the subject of intense debates due to the strong association in Western thought between urbanism, capitalism and modernity. In this book, Arjan Zuiderhoek provides a survey of the main issues at stake in these debates, as well as a sketch of the chief characteristics of Greek and Roman cities. He argues that the ancient Greco-Roman city was indeed a highly specific form of urbanism, but that this does not imply that the ancient city was somehow 'superior' or 'inferior' to forms of urbanism in other societies, just (interestingly) different. The book is aimed primarily at students of ancient history and general readers, but also at scholars working on urbanism in other periods and places.
The Structure and Dynamics of Cities
Authors: Barthelemy Marc
Published: November 2016

With over half of the world's population now living in urban areas, the ability to model and understand the structure and dynamics of cities is becoming increasingly valuable. Combining new data with tools and concepts from statistical physics and urban economics, this book presents a modern and interdisciplinary perspective on cities and urban systems. Both empirical observations and theoretical approaches are critically reviewed, with particular emphasis placed on derivations of classical models and results, along with analysis of their limits and validity. Key aspects of cities are thoroughly analyzed, including mobility patterns, the impact of multimodality, the coupling between different transportation modes, the evolution of infrastructure networks, spatial and social organisation, and interactions between cities. Drawing upon knowledge and methods from areas of mathematics, physics, economics and geography, the resulting quantitative description of cities will be of interest to all those studying and researching how to model these complex systems.
Responsive Authoritarianism in China
Authors: Heurlin Christopher
Published: November 2016

How can protests influence policymaking in a repressive dictatorship? Responsive Authoritarianism in China sheds light on this important question through case studies of land takings and demolitions - two of the most explosive issues in contemporary China. In the early 2000s, landless farmers and evictees unleashed waves of disruptive protests. Surprisingly, the Chinese government responded by adopting wide-ranging policy changes that addressed many of the protesters' grievances. Heurlin traces policy changes from local protests in the provinces to the halls of the National People's Congress (NPC) in Beijing. In doing so, he highlights the interplay between local protests, state institutions, and elite politics. He shows that the much-maligned petitioning system actually plays an important role in elevating protesters' concerns to the policymaking agenda. Delving deep into the policymaking process, the book illustrates how the State Council and NPC have become battlegrounds for conflicts between ministries and local governments over state policies.
Marked boundary rigidity for surfaces
Authors: GUILLARMOU COLIN , MAZZUCCHELLI MARCO
Published: November 2016

We show that, on an oriented compact surface, two sufficiently $C^{2}$-close Riemannian metrics with strictly convex boundary, no conjugate points, hyperbolic trapped set for their geodesic flows and the same marked boundary distance are isometric via a diffeomorphism that fixes the boundary. We also prove that the same conclusion holds on a compact surface for any two negatively curved Riemannian metrics with strictly convex boundary and the same marked boundary distance, extending a result of Croke and Otal.
Of the body and the hands: patterned iconicity for semantic categories
Authors: HWANG SO-ONE , TOMITA NOZOMI , MORGAN HOPE , ERGIN RABIA , İLKBAŞARAN DENIZ , SEEGERS SHARON , LEPIC RYAN , PADDEN CAROL
Published: November 2016

abstract

This paper examines how gesturers and signers use their bodies to express concepts such as instrumentality and humanness. Comparing across eight sign languages (American, Japanese, German, Israeli, and Kenyan Sign Languages, Ha Noi Sign Language of Vietnam, Central Taurus Sign Language of Turkey, and Al-Sayyid Bedouin Sign Language of Israel) and the gestures of American non-signers, we find recurring patterns for naming entities in three semantic categories (tools, animals, and fruits & vegetables). These recurring patterns are captured in a classification system that identifies iconic strategies based on how the body is used together with the hands. Across all groups, tools are named withmanipulationforms, where the head and torso represent those of a human agent. Animals tend to be identified withpersonificationforms, where the body serves as a map for a comparable non-human body. Fruits & vegetables tend to be identified withobjectforms, where the hands act independently from the rest of the body to represent static features of the referent. We argue that these iconic patterns are rooted in using the body for communication, and provide a basis for understanding how meaningful communication emerges quickly in gesture and persists in emergent and established sign languages.
Do Voters Dislike Working-Class Candidates? Voter Biases and the Descriptive Underrepresentation of the Working Class
Authors: CARNES NICHOLAS , LUPU NOAM
Published: November 2016

In most democracies, lawmakers tend to be vastly better off than the citizens who elect them. Is that because voters prefer more affluent politicians over leaders from working-class backgrounds? In this article, we report the results of candidate choice experiments embedded in surveys in Britain, the United States, and Argentina. Using conjoint designs, we asked voters in these different contexts to choose between two hypothetical candidates, randomly varying several of the candidates’ personal characteristics, including whether they had worked in blue-collar or white-collar jobs. Contrary to the idea that voters prefer affluent politicians, the voters in our experiments viewed hypothetical candidates from the working class as equally qualified, more relatable, and just as likely to get their votes. Voters do not seem to be behind the shortage of working-class politicians. To the contrary, British, American, and Argentine voters seem perfectly willing to cast their ballots for working-class candidates.
LINCOLN CATHEDRAL TREASURE HOUSE
Authors: Milner Lesley
Published: November 2016

An unpublished document in the archives of Lincoln Cathedral reveals the function of the thirteenth-century annex attached to the south-east transept, naming it as the cathedral’s thesaurarium (‘treasury’). This paper explores the fittings and the functions of the various chambers of the thesaurarium of Lincoln Cathedral, including its splendid crypt. In addition, the paper will examine the extent to which the thesaurarium conforms to the type of ecclesiastical treasure house favoured by secular canons in England and abroad. The building’s design and architectural language testify to the decorum and respect accorded to church treasures and the importance attached to the task of providing them with accommodation worthy of their status.
Development and validation of empirical indices to assess the insulinaemic potential of diet and lifestyle
Authors: Tabung Fred K. , Wang Weike , Fung Teresa T. , Hu Frank B. , Smith-Warner Stephanie A. , Chavarro Jorge E. , Fuchs Charles S. , Willett Walter C. , Giovannucci Edward L.
Published: November 2016

The glycaemic and insulin indices assess postprandial glycaemic and insulin response to foods, respectively, which may not reflect the long-term effects of diet on insulin response. We developed and evaluated the validity of four empirical indices to assess the insulinaemic potential of usual diets and lifestyles, using dietary, lifestyle and biomarker data from the Nurses’ Health Study (NHS, n 5812 for hyperinsulinaemia, n 3929 for insulin resistance). The four indices were as follows: the empirical dietary index for hyperinsulinaemia (EDIH) and the empirical lifestyle index for hyperinsulinaemia (ELIH); the empirical dietary index for insulin resistance (EDIR) and the empirical lifestyle index for insulin resistance (ELIR). We entered thirty-nine FFQ-derived food groups in stepwise linear regression models, and defined indices as patterns most predictive of fasting plasma C-peptide, for the hyperinsulinaemia pathway (EDIH and ELIH), and of theTAG:HDL-cholesterol ratio, for the insulin-resistance pathway (EDIR and ELIR). We evaluated the validity of indices in two independent samples from NHS-II and Health Professionals Follow-up Study (HPFS) using multivariable-adjusted linear regression analyses to calculate relative concentrations of biomarkers. The EDIH is comprised of eighteen food groups; thirteen were positively associated with C-peptide and five were inversely associated. The EDIR is comprised of eighteen food groups; ten were positively associated with TAG:HDL-cholesterol and eight were inversely associated. Lifestyle indices had fewer dietary components, and included BMI and physical activity as components. In the validation samples, all indices significantly predicted biomarker concentrations – for example, the relative concentrations of the corresponding biomarkers comparing extreme index quintiles in the HPFS were EDIH, 1·29 (95 % CI 1·22, 1·37); ELIH, 1·78 (95 % CI 1·68, 1·88); EDIR, 1·44 (95 % CI 1·34, 1·55); and ELIR, 2·03 (95 % CI 1·89, 2·19); all Ptrend<0·0001. The robust associations of these novel hypothesis-driven indices with insulin response biomarker concentrations suggest their usefulness in assessing the ability of whole diets and lifestyles to stimulate and/or sustain insulin secretion.
Towards a deeper understanding of fatty acid bioaccessibility and its dependence on culinary treatment and lipid class: a case study of gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata)
Authors: Costa Sara , Afonso Cláudia , Cardoso Carlos , Oliveira Rui , Alves Francisca , Nunes Maria L. , Bandarra Narcisa M.
Published: November 2016

The bioaccessibility of total lipids and fatty acids (FA) in raw and grilled gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata) was determined using an in vitro digestion model. The particular impact of grilling on the FA profile of seabream was also studied. In addition, the influence of lipid class on the bioaccessibility of each FA was analysed. Grilling did not change the relative FA profile, and only the absolute values were altered. However, the relative FA profile varied across lipid classes, being more dissimilar between TAG and phospholipids. Long-chain SFA and PUFA seemed to be less bioaccessible. Moreover, grilling reduced bioaccessibility of protein, fat and many FA, with the highest reductions found in PUFA such as the DHA. Strong evidence supporting a predominantly regioselective action of lipase during in vitro digestion was found, and the impact of this phenomenon on FA bioaccessibility was assessed.
PARALLELS AND CONTRASTS IN GENDERED HISTORIES OF INDUSTRIAL LABOUR IN BURSA AND BOMBAY 1850–1910
Authors: YILDIZ HATICE
Published: November 2016

Textile manufacturing in India and the Ottoman Empire transformed fundamentally in the nineteenth century, when mass-produced goods imported from Europe permeated local markets. Faced with increasing competition from abroad, local producers changed their techniques, materials, designs, and target customers. At the same time, processing industries emerged in places with intense mercantile activity, introducing new meanings, relations, and patterns of work. This article investigates the role played by gender in the shaping of labour markets and class politics in two export-oriented industries that developed simultaneously: the silk-reeling industry in Bursa and the cotton-spinning industry in Bombay. It shows that the secondary economic value attributed to women's work, combined with rural connections of workers, brought down wages and subsidized capitalist profits in both sectors. Within the emerging industrial workforce, ideas about appropriate roles for women and men provided the vocabulary and constituted boundaries of class politics. Bringing gender into the debate of industrial development and class, the article reveals parallels and contrasts in two non-European settings that are rarely compared in the existing historiographies.
Bilateral blindness following anterior nasal packing in a case of nasopharyngeal angiofibroma
Authors: Sahoo A K , Preetam C , Kumar R , Samal D K
Published: November 2016

Background:

Epistaxis is the most common ENT emergency encountered in the Emergency Department. Most cases can be managed by simple anterior nasal packing. This is usually a safe and very effective option in an emergency situation, requiring minimal expertise and infrastructure. This paper describes a rare instance of a serious complication following anterior nasal packing in a case of nasopharyngeal angiofibroma.

Case report:

A 27-year-old man diagnosed with nasopharyngeal angiofibroma presented to the Emergency Department with bilateral epistaxis. The patient was stabilised and anterior nasal packing was performed, which controlled the bleeding. Three hours later, the patient developed complete blindness in both eyes. Aggressive medical management was initiated immediately, but failed to restore the patient's vision.

Conclusion:

Anterior nasal packing is a simple and minimally invasive procedure practised regularly in an Emergency Department setting. However, it can occasionally lead to serious complications such as blindness. Thus, obtaining informed consent is essential to avoid medico-legal consequences in high-risk cases.