bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative performances of phenolic sensors based on various CeO2-carbon material nanocomposites for environmental safety
Authors: Algethami Faisal K. , Marwani Hadi M. , Asiri Abdullah M. , Rahman Mohammed M.
Published: February 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to prepare various CeO2-based carbon material (CNT, CB, GO) nanocomposites through a wet chemical process for the development of a sensor probe to detect various environmental toxins by using an electrochemical approach under room temperature conditions. A comparative study on sensitive and selective phenolic sensor (4-methoxyphenol; 4-MP) has been fabricated by modifying a glassy carbon electrode (GCE) with various nanocomposites (NCs) such as CeO2, CeO2–CNT (carbon nanotubes), CeO2–CB (carbon black) and CeO2–GO (graphene oxide) NCs.

Design/methodology/approach

The CeO2–CNT NCs were prepared by the wet chemical method at low temperature. NCs were characterized by various methods such as transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier-transform infra-red (FTIR), ultra-violet/visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy and XRD (X-ray diffraction). CeO2–CNT NCs were immobilized as a film on the flat surface of the GCE by using binders (5% Nafion). The electrochemical measurements of the 4-MP detection with the CeO2–CNT NCs/Nafion/GCE sensor were studied by the current-voltage method.

Findings

In the optimal conditions, the sensitivity, detection limit and limit of quantification of 4-MP sensor probe were found to be 47.56 µAcm-2 µM−1, 12.0 ± 0.2 nM and 40.0 ± 0.5 nM (S/N of 3), respectively.

Research limitations/implications

This electrochemical sensor showed an acceptable analytical performance in the detection of 4-MP with higher sensitivity, lower detection limit, large dynamic concentration range, good reproducibility and fast response time.

Practical implications

This electrochemical approach can be applied practically for the determination of selective 4-MP in real environmental and extracted samples.

Social implications

CeO2–CNT NCs/Nafion/GCE sensor probe was used for the safety of environmental and health-care fields at larger scales.

Originality/value

This electrochemical approach is a significant achievement on the development of sensor probe. The results are indicated as being technically detailed with an up-to-date account of recent chemical sensor research studies.
Neglected areas on thorax computed tomography evaluation in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: Paravertebral muscles and para‐aortic adipose tissue
Authors: Resorlu Mustafa , Karatag Ozan , Toprak Canan A , Ozturk Muhsin O
Published: February 2018

Introduction

This study, investigated the para‐aortic adipose tissue cross‐sectional area, a novel predictor of cardiovascular diseases and degenerative changes in the paravertebral muscles, in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Method

One hundred cases diagnosed as COPD and 50 healthy individuals with similar demographic characteristics were evaluated. Para‐aortic adipose tissue cross‐sectional area (mm2), subcutaneous adipose tissue thickness (mm), paravertebral muscle area (mm2) and fat deposition in muscle tissue were assessed radiologically.

Results

Paravertebral muscle mass was lower in the patient group compared to the healthy individuals (471.41 ± 157.71 mm2 and 561.58 + 151.03 mm2, respectively; P = 0.001). Paravertebral muscle attenuation values were also lower in the patient group, and the grade of deposition increased (P = 0.012 and P = 0.045, respectively). Although subcutaneous adipose tissue thicknesses were similar in the patient and control groups, para‐aortic adipose tissue cross‐sectional area was higher in the patients with COPD than in the control group (439.34 ± 267.17 mm2 and 333.82 ± 165.23 mm2, respectively, P = 0.012). The correlation between subcutaneous adipose tissue and para‐aortic adipose tissue observed in the healthy group was not present in the subjects with COPD.

Conclusion

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease causes morphological changes in paravertebral muscles and para‐aortic adipose tissue. Degenerative changes in the paravertebral muscles occur secondary to systemic inflammation, comorbidity and drugs used in COPD. Factors such as insulin resistance and steroid use result in an increase in para‐aortic adipose tissue mass.
Governing the Global Land Grab
Authors: Kapstein Ethan B.
Published: February 2018

Following the 2007–2008 world food price crisis, the value of developing world agricultural land shot up, raising concerns about a ‘land grab’, In response, the Committee on World Food Security (CFS) promulgated the Voluntary Guidelines on the Governance of Tenure of Land, Forests and Fisheries (VGGT) in an effort to strengthen the land rights of customary users. How do we explain theVGGT's emergence? The argument I make is that theVGGTwas largely due to the efforts of a group of non‐governmental organizations that effectively transformed debates over developing world agricultural land from an economic or consequentialist issue of increasing farm productivity and output into a moral or deontological one of protecting the human rights of those who worked the land through customary use. The article addresses the utility of theVGGTas an instrument for strengthening land rights along with its limits.
Longitudinal relationships among depressive symptoms, cortisol, and brain atrophy in the neocortex and the hippocampus
Authors: Lebedeva A. , Sundström A. , Lindgren L. , Stomby A. , Aarsland D. , Westman E. , Winblad B. , Olsson T. , Nyberg L.
Published: February 2018

Objective

Depression is associated with accelerated aging and age‐related diseases. However, mechanisms underlying this relationship remain unclear. The aim of this study was to longitudinally assess the link between depressive symptoms, brain atrophy, and cortisol levels.

Method

Participants from the Betula prospective cohort study (mean age = 59 years, SD = 13.4 years) underwent clinical, neuropsychological and brain 3T MRI assessments at baseline and a 4‐year follow‐up. Cortisol levels were measured at baseline in four saliva samples. Cortical and hippocampal atrophy rates were estimated and compared between participants with and without depressive symptoms (n = 81) and correlated with cortisol levels (n = 49).

Results

Atrophy in the left superior frontal gyrus and right lingual gyrus developed in parallel with depressive symptoms, and in the left temporal pole, superior temporal cortex, and supramarginal cortex after the onset of depressive symptom. Depression‐related atrophy was significantly associated with elevated cortisol levels. Elevated cortisol levels were also associated with widespread prefrontal, parietal, lateral, and medial temporal atrophy.

Conclusion

Depressive symptoms and elevated cortisol levels are associated with atrophy of the prefrontal and limbic areas of the brain.
Smokin‘ hot: adolescent smoking and the risk of psychosis
Authors: Mustonen A. , Ahokas T. , Nordström T. , Murray G. K. , Mäki P. , Jääskeläinen E. , Heiskala A. , Mcgrath J. J. , Scott J. G. , Miettunen J. , Niemelä S.
Published: February 2018

Objective

Daily smoking has been associated with a greater risk of psychosis. However, we are still lacking studies to adjust for baseline psychotic experiences and other substance use. We examined associations between daily smoking and psychosis risk in a 15‐year follow‐up while accounting for these covariates in a prospective sample (N = 6081) from the Northern Finland Birth Cohort 1986.

Methods

Self‐report questionnaires on psychotic experiences (PROD‐screen), tobacco smoking and other substance use were completed when the cohort members were 15–16 years old. Tobacco smoking was categorized into three groups (non‐smokers, 1–9 cigarettes and ≥10 cigarettes/day). Psychosis diagnoses were obtained from national registers until the age of 30 years.

Results

Subjects in heaviest smoking category were at increased risk of subsequent psychosis (unadjusted HR = 3.15; 95% CI 1.94–5.13). When adjusted for baseline psychotic experiences the association persisted (HR = 2.87; 1.76–4.68) and remained significant even after adjustments for multiple known risk factors such as cannabis use, frequent alcohol use, other illicit substance use, parental substance abuse, and psychosis. Furthermore, number of smoked cigarettes increased psychosis risk in a dose–response manner (adjusted OR = 1.05; 1.01–1.08).

Conclusion

Heavy tobacco smoking in adolescence was associated with a greater risk for psychosis even after adjustment for confounders.
The effect of anaesthetic technique during primary breast cancer surgery on neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio, platelet–lymphocyte ratio and return to intended oncological therapy
Authors: Ní Eochagáin A. , Burns D. , Riedel B. , Sessler D. I. , Buggy D. J.
Published: February 2018

Inflammation and immunosuppression contribute to the pathogenesis of cancer. An increased neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio reflects these processes and is associated with adverse cancer outcomes. Whether anaesthetic technique for breast cancer surgery influences these factors, and potentially cancer recurrence, remains unknown. We conducted a secondary analysis in patients enrolled in an ongoing trial of anaesthetic technique on breast cancer recurrence. The primary hypothesis was that postoperative neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio is lower in patients allocated to receive propofol‐paravertebral rather than inhalational agent‐opioid anaesthesia for primary breast cancer surgery. Among 397 patients, 116 had differential white cell counts performed pre‐operatively and postoperatively. Pre‐operative neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio was similar in the propofol‐paravertebral 2.3 (95%CI 1.8–2.8) and inhalational agent‐opioid anaesthesia 2.2 (1.9–3.2) groups, p = 0.72. Postoperative neutrophil–lymphocyte ratio was lower (3.0 (2.4–4.2) vs. 4.0 (2.9–5.4), p = 0.001) in the propofol‐paravertebral group. Propofol‐paravertebral anaesthesia attenuated the postoperative increase in the neutrophil‐lymphocyte ratio.
Establishing a successful perioperative geriatric service in an Australian acute surgical unit
Authors: Styan Lauren , Murphy Skyle , Fleury Aisling , McGowan Brian , Wullschleger Martin
Published: February 2018

Background

The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of a perioperative geriatric service (PGS) in an acute surgical unit (ASU) on patient and organizational outcomes.

Methods

Single centre retrospective cohort study. Inclusion criteria were patients over the age of 65 admitted to the ASU between January and June 2014 (pre‐PGS) and 2015 (post‐PGS). Chart reviews were performed to identify outcomes of interest including in‐hospital morbidity and mortality, length of stay (LOS), 30‐day representation and mortality.

Results

Geriatric admissions increased by 32% over the two study periods (154 pre‐PGS and 203 post‐PGS). Surgical intervention increased by 11% (P = 0.01). Significantly more medical complications (14% versus 33%, P < 0.001) were identified after the implementation of the PGS. Recognition of delirium in the over 80s also increased by 57%. Rate of surgical complications was unchanged over the study (28% pre‐PGS and 34% post‐PGS, P = 0.6). In‐hospital (<1%, P = 0.5) and 30‐day mortality (<1%, P = 0.6) remained low, as did 30‐day representation (10% versus 8%, P = 0.5). A trend towards decreased LOS of 1 day was identified after the implementation of the PGS (P = 0.07).

Conclusion

This study demonstrated successful implementation of a PGS into an ASU. This multi‐disciplinary approach has been effective in maintaining low numbers of surgical complications, in‐hospital mortality, LOS and patient representations despite an increased number of medical complications. This likely reflects more timely recognition and intervention of medically unwell patients with the PGS.
Soft tissue balancing in total knee arthroplasty using sensor‐guided assessment: is there a learning curve?
Authors: Gharaibeh Monther A. , Chen Darren B. , MacDessi Samuel J.
Published: February 2018

Background

Sensor‐guided assessment for soft tissue balance in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) has been reported to improve patient satisfaction and self‐reported outcome scores. As more surgeons adopt this technology in TKA, we performed this study to identify if there is a learning curve with its use.

Methods

Analysis of a total of 90 consecutive cases was performed in this study. Initial and final intercompartmental pressure differences were recorded before and after knee ligament balancing. The first 45 patients (group 1) were compared to the last 45 patients (group 2) in terms of operative time and the final state of knee balance. A balanced knee was defined as pressure difference between medial and lateral compartments of ≤15 pounds.

Results

Group 1 had 10 unbalanced knees in the final pressure difference assessment, while all cases in group 2 were balanced (P < 0.001). There was no statistically significant difference in mean operative time between the two groups. A scatter plot of intercompartmental pressure difference identified that after 30 cases, the capacity to achieve knee ligament balance improved.

Conclusion

This study suggests that there is a learning curve with the use of sensor‐guided assessment in TKA in achieving knee balance; however, the differences noted between initial and final groups were small and may not be of clinical significance.
Associations between adolescent risk for restrictive disordered eating and long‐term outcomes related to somatic symptoms, body mass index, and poor well‐being
Authors: Landstedt Evelina , Hammarström Anne , Fairweather‐Schmidt A. Kate , Wade Tracey
Published: February 2018

Objective

To date, no longitudinal, community‐based studies have examined the association between disordered eating emerging in adolescence and long‐term physical well‐being. This study sought to explore the longitudinal associations between risk for restrictive disordered eating (DE‐R; those not presenting with binge–purge symptoms) in adolescence and trajectories of functional somatic symptoms (FSS) and body mass index (BMI), and several indicators of poor physical well‐being across early‐ to mid‐adulthood, including medication, number of doctor visits, and sick leave.

Design

Data were obtained from the Northern Swedish Cohort Study (N = 1,001), a prospective longitudinal study including four time points from age 16 to 42 years.

Methods

A cumulative measure of DE‐R risk was computed. Latent class growth analysis was used to identify subpopulation trajectories of FSS and BMI. The three‐step method for auxiliary variables and logistic regressions were used to assess associations between DE‐R and the trajectory classes as well as indicators of poor physical well‐being.

Results

Three trajectories were identified for FSS. A gender by BMI interaction led to a classification of four BMI trajectories in men, but three in women. The presence of DE‐R risk in adolescence increased odds of unfavourable FSS development, increasing BMI in women, and continually low BMI in men. Indicators of poor physical well‐being at ages 21, 30, and 42 years were associated with DE‐R risk in adolescence.

Conclusions

Data spanning nearly three decades suggest that physical well‐being impairment is related to DE‐R risk measured earlier in life, underscoring the urgency for targeted, gender‐sensitive preventive interventions for teenagers.

Statement of contribution

What is already known on this subject?

Disordered eating is linked to poor physical and mental well‐being and quality of life.

No longitudinal studies have examined long‐term physical well‐being consequences of adolescent disordered eating risk.

What does this study add?

Non‐purging disordered eating symptoms in adolescence predict adverse physical well‐being outcomes in middle‐aged men and women.

Targeted interventions and preventative work during adolescence are needed.
Ginsenoside Rh2 inhibits prostate cancer cell growth through suppression of microRNA‐4295 that activates CDKN1A
Authors: Gao Qiruo , Zheng Junhua
Published: February 2018

Objectives

Ginsenoside Rh2 (GRh2) has demonstrative therapeutic effects on a variety of diseases, including some tumours. However, the effects of GRh2 on prostate cancer (PC) cell growth remain unknown, and were, thus, addressed in the present study.

Materials and methods

PC3 and DU145 PC cell lines were exposed to GRh2. Cell proliferation was assessed in an MTT assay and by BrdU incorporation. Apoptosis of the cells were assessed by TUNEL staining. Total RNA was assessed by RT‐qPCR. Protein levels were assessed by Western blotting. Bioinformatics and dual luciferase reporter assay were applied to determine the functional binding of miRNA to mRNA of target gene.

Results

GRh2 dose‐dependently decreased PC cell proliferation, but did not alter cell apoptosis. Mechanistically, GRh2 dose‐dependently increased the protein, but not mRNA of a cell‐cycle suppressor CDKN1A in PC cells, suggesting the presence of microRNA (miRNA)‐mediated protein translation control of CDKN1A by GRh2. In all candidate miRNAs that bind to 3′‐UTR of CDKN1A, miR‐4295 was specifically found to be suppressed dose‐dependently by GRh2 in PC cells. Moreover, miR‐4295 bound CDKN1A to suppress its protein translation. Furthermore, cell proliferation in PC cells that overexpressed miR‐4295 did not alter in response to GRh2.

Conclusions

GRh2 may inhibit PC cell growth through suppression of microRNA‐4295 that activates CDKN1A.
Does sedation offer better outcomes than local anaesthesia for thyroid FNA in adult patients?
Authors: Kholmatov R. M. , Khadra H. S. , Murad F. , Ahmed T. M. , Sholl A. B. , Kandil E.
Published: February 2018

Objective

To examine the potential benefits of sedation in adults undergoing fine needle aspiration (FNA) of thyroid nodules.

Methods

This retrospective study compared the outcomes of sedated and non‐sedated FNA patients.

Results

A total of 860 patients underwent 1698 FNAs of thyroid nodules. The mean patient age was 52.4±14.4 years, and 80.2% of patients were women. The non‐sedated group consisted of 782 patients with 1543 (93.5%) FNA procedures. The sedated group consisted of 66 patients who underwent 107 (6.5%) FNAs. There was no statistical difference between these groups with respect to age, gender, nodule size, nodule vascularity, non‐diagnostic sample rate and post FNA hematoma (P > .05).

Conclusions

Performing FNA of thyroid nodules in adult patients under sedation is not associated with a higher diagnostic yield or lower bleeding rate when compared to local anesthesia. Sedation should be judiciously used on only very anxious patients due to the increased overall cost.
Cytology of cerebrospinal fluid involvement in systemic anaplastic large‐cell lymphoma
Authors: Dehuri P. , Bhandary C. , Gochhait D. , Srinivas B. H. , Basu D. , Siddaraju N.
Published: February 2018

CSF involvement in cases of systemic ALCL is rarely reported. However CSF study should be done in all cases of NHL when the patient is symptomatic, although the radiology may be normal.
“Land Grab” or Development Opportunity? The Effect of Transnational Farmland Investments on the Ghanaian Economy
Authors: Choi Donggul
Published: February 2018

Transnational investments in farmland in developing economies are recent and controversial. While they bring developmental opportunities including capital deepening, new technology, and employment opportunities, there are also concerns about the dislocation of local farmers and insufficient compensation for land use. This paper investigates how these seemingly conflicting effects interact in the process of economic growth by fitting a dynamic general equilibrium model to Ghanaian data. The differing effects of two common foreign investment activities, grain farming and biofuel production, are investigated. Grain farming investments tend to promote capital accumulation and increase income and consumption over the transition, whereas labor income is adversely affected. Biofuel projects induce the reverse. Results identify the relative labor intensity of technology on foreign‐operated farms, which affects the returns to domestic capital and the pace of capital deepening, as a major determinant of the long‐term effect of farmland investments.
The Role of Exports in the Transmission of Horizontal and Vertical Spillovers of Foreign Direct Investment: The Case of Turkish Manufacturing Industry
Authors: Ebghaei Felor , Akkoyunlu Wigley Arzu
Published: February 2018

This study examines the role of exports in the transmission of horizontal and vertical spillovers of foreign direct investment for the Turkish manufacturing industry by using firm‐level data. Our objective is to test whether the export capacity of firms is one of the determinants of the occurrence of the horizontal and vertical spillovers generated by foreign direct investment. In order to determine whether the productivity effects arising from horizontal and vertical (backward and forward) spillovers are conditioned by the exports of firms, value added and total factor productivity equations for Turkish manufacturing industry firms for the years 2003–11 are estimated using the panel data method. Our estimation results show that the productivity effects generated by horizontal, backward, and forward spillovers of foreign direct investment are more pronounced for export‐oriented firms.
Effect of sward height on the fermentability coefficient and chemical composition of Guinea grass silage
Authors: Tomaz P. K. , de Araujo L. C. , Sanches L. A. , dos Santos‐Araujo S. N. , de Lima T. O. , Lino A. de A. , Ferreira E. M.
Published: February 2018

There is a high correlation between sward height and pasture sward structure. Therefore, in tropical grasslands, taking sward height into account has been a much better strategy in rotational stocking management than considering pre‐defined days of growth. Similarly, sward height could be used to determine the moment when tropical grasses present the best ensilability parameters. This study aimed to identify the sward height at which Panicum maximum cv. Mombaça (Guinea grass) provides the highest fermentability coefficient (FC) and to define the combination of additives that best improves the chemical composition of silage. Two trials were carried out in Selvíria, MS, Brazil, from 2015 to 2016. The first year was used to identify the highest FC, and the second year was used to identify the best combination of eight additives (citrus pulp [CIP], homofermentative and heterofermentative LAB, their combinations and control). Statistical analyses were performed using SAS (p < .05), and one contrast was defined as silage with CIP vs. silage without CIP. The height of 130 cm resulted in the highest FC (31.01). Silages inoculated with CIP had better quality than silages without CIP, due to the high crude protein (8.3 vs. 7.3% DM), DM recovery (98.6 vs. 93.3% DM), low pH (3.92 vs. 4.91) and NH3‐N values (2.49 vs. 14.73% total N). Sward height is a consistent parameter for determining the time of ensiling Guinea grass, and the inclusion of CIP is necessary to raise the silage quality.
Testing the validity and reliability of the Self‐Administration of Medication (SAM) instrument in Chinese chronic disease patients: A cross‐cultural adaptation
Authors: Lin Beilei , Mei Yongxia , Ma Fayang , Zhang Zhenxiang , Chen Qin , Wang Shaoyang
Published: February 2018

Aims

To develop a culturally appropriate and functional standard Mandarin Chinese translation of the Self‐Administration of Medication tool and to examine its validity and reliability.

Methods

We used Brislin's guidelines for the translation and back‐translation procedures. We recruited 130 patients from June 2015 to September 2016. Correlation analysis, Cronbach's alpha coefficient, split‐half reliability, item analysis and the content validity index, and exploratory factor analysis were performed.

Results

Strong and moderate correlations were seen between the total Self‐Administration of Medication score and nurses' and patients' perceptions. Item analysis indicated that the correlation coefficient ranged from 0.744 to 0.975. Cronbach's alpha ranged from 0.933 to 0.976. The split‐half reliability ranged from 0.911 to 0.936 for the instrument's subscales, and 0.953 for the total scale. The content validity index value ranged from 0.823 to 0.972 for individual items and was 0.968 for the total scale. The factor loading matrix of the SAM ranged from 0.514 to 0.837. A moderate correlation existed between the scores of the Self‐Administration of Medication tool and the Barthel Index.

Conclusion

The Chinese version of the Self‐Administration of Medication tool is statistically acceptable and can be used in the evaluation of self‐medication ability based on self‐report and nurses' assessment.
Association of visit‐to‐visit blood pressure variability with the risk of all‐cause mortality and cardiovascular events in general population
Authors: Dai Liye , Song Lu , Li Xiaoli , Yang Yuling , Zheng Xiaoming , Wu Yuntao , Li Chunhui , Zhao Hualing , Wang Yilong , Wu Shouling , Wang Yongjun
Published: February 2018

The association between blood pressure variability (BPV) and the risk of all‐cause mortality and cardiovascular diseases (CVD) is not well understood. The Kailuan study is a prospective longitudinal cohort study on cerebrovascular events and cardiovascular factors. In this study, resting blood pressure was measured at baseline and every 2 years from 2006 to 2007. BPV is mainly defined as the coefficient of variation (CV). Hazard ratio (HR), with 95% confidence intervals (CI) was calculated using Cox regression model. Among 52 387 participants, we identified 1817 who ended up with all‐cause death and 1198 with CVD. Each 4.68% increase in BPV was associated with a 13% increase in the risk of mortality (HR = 1.13, 95% CI = 1.09‐1.18) and a 7% increase in CVD (HR = 1.07, 95% CI = 1.02‐1.13), respectively. After adjustment of confounding factors, the HR of comparing participants in the highest versus lowest quartile of CV of systolic blood pressure (SBP) was 1.37 (1.19, 1.57) for all‐cause death, 1.18 (1.01, 1.39) for CVD. Similar results were also observed when BPV was measured by different parameters. We concluded that visit‐to‐visit BPV was associated with all‐cause death and cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events in Chinese general population.
24‐hour aortic blood pressure variability showed a stronger association with carotid damage than 24‐hour brachial blood pressure variability: TheSAFARstudy
Authors: Yu Shikai , Chi Chen , Protogerou Athanase D. , Safar Michel E. , Blacher Jacques , Argyris Antonis A. , Nasothimiou Efthimia G. , Sfikakis Petros P. , Papaioannou Theodore G. , Xu Henry , Zhang Yi , Xu Yawei
Published: February 2018

We aim to compare 24‐hour aortic blood pressure variability (BPV) with brachialBPVin relation to carotid damage as estimated by carotid intima‐media thickness (CIMT) and cross‐sectional area (CCSA). Four hundred and forty five individuals received brachial and aortic 24‐hour ambulatoryBPmonitoring with a validated device (Mobil‐O‐Graph). SystolicBPVwas estimated by average real variability (ARV) and time‐weighted standard deviation (wSD). In multiple logistic regression analysis,CIMT > 900 μm was significantly and independently associated with aorticARV(OR = 1.38; 95%CI: 1.04‐1.84), aortic wSD(OR = 1.65; 95%CI: 1.19‐2.29) and brachialARV(OR = 1.53; 95%CI: 1.07‐2.18), but not with brachial wSD.CCSA > 90th percentile was significantly and independently associated with aorticARV(OR = 1.50; 95%CI: 1.07‐2.10) and wSD(OR = 1.70; 95%CI: 1.12‐2.56), but not with brachialBPVs. In receiver operator characteristics curve analysis, aortic wSDidentifiedCCSA > 90th percentile better than brachial wSD(AUC: 0.73 vs 0.68,P < .01). In conclusion, aortic 24‐hour systolicBPVshowed a slightly stronger association with carotid damage than brachial BPV.
Fixed‐dose vs free‐dose combinations for the management of hypertension—An analysis of 81 958 patients
Authors: Bramlage Peter , Schmidt Stefanie , Sims Helen
Published: February 2018

Fixed‐dose combinations (FDC) have been developed to reduce the pill burden for hypertensive patients. Data on fixed‐dose or free‐dose (freeDC) ramipril/amlodipine (R/A) or candesartan/amlodipine (C/A) combination treatment initiation were assessed. 71 463 patients were prescribed R/A and 10 495 C/A. For both R/A and C/A, FDC patients were younger (both P < .001) and less comorbid. Prior MI (OR: 0.61 and 0.60), prior stroke (OR: 0.68 and 0.70) and CHD (OR: 0.68 and 0.64) were negatively associated with FDC use, whereas hyperlipidemia was positively associated (OR: 1.26 and 1.19). Use of antihypertensive comedication (OR: 0.78; OR: 0.55) and treatment discontinuation within 12 months (HR: 0.65 and 0.82) were less likely in FDC patients, who also showed superior adherence (mean MPR; both P < .001). Cost of the combination was higher for FDCs (both P < .001). FDCs improve persistence and adherence, although they are more commonly prescribed in patients with less cardiovascular disease.
Restoration of Facial Form and Lip Competence in a Patient with a Midfacial Defect
Authors: Kapetanakos Melani , Wisniewski Sarah , Golden Marjorie , Randazzo Joseph
Published: February 2018

Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the head and neck can be treated with a combination of modalities. There is an esthetic and functional compromise with midfacial defects secondary to ablative surgery and adjuvant therapies for SCC. Osteoradionecrosis, tissue contracture, and trismus, are all negative side effects of treatment and can impact a patient's function and possibly their nutrition. In this report, we describe a procedure for fabrication of a prosthesis that provides cosmetic improvement and labial competence to maintain caloric intake.
Clinical Risk Factors for Early Seizure Recurrence in Dogs Hospitalized for Seizure Evaluation
Authors: Kwiatkowska M. , Tipold A. , Huenerfauth E. , Pomianowski A.
Published: February 2018

Background

Epileptic seizures are a common cause for neurological evaluations in dogs.

Hypothesis/Objectives

To determine the timing, frequency, and risk factors for early seizure recurrence (ESR) among dogs admitted to the hospital for seizure evaluation and to facilitate rapid decision making about whether dogs should be placed in the intensive care unit (ICU) or day ward.

Animals

Nine‐hundred twenty‐two dogs referred for seizure investigation; 214 patients were included.

Methods

Retrospective study. Medical records between 2000 and 2017 were reviewed to determine risk factors for ESR. Findings were compared among dogs diagnosed with idiopathic epilepsy (IE), structural epilepsy (StE) and reactive seizures (RS), as well as in all selected cases together.

Results

Fifty percent of dogs had a seizure while hospitalized. In the group 53.1 and 52.2% in the StE group, whereas in the RS 40.44% had ESR. The average time to ESR was 7 hours. In IE group, abnormal postictal neurological examination with prosencephalon signs predicted ESR. In StE group, a single generalized or focal seizure 72 hours before hospital admission and abnormal neurologic examination predicted ESR. In the RS group, ERS was predicted by long‐term antiepileptic monotheraphy. When all dogs were analyzed together, abnormal neurological examination, the occurrence of cluster seizures, status epilepticus, or combination of them 72 hours before presentation predicted ESR.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Epileptic seizures recurred in 50% of patients within a mean time of 7 hours. In general, when cluster seizures, status epilepticus or both occurred 72 hours before presentation and neurological examination was abnormal upon presentation, the dog should be placed in ICU for observation.
Pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and metabolism of acepromazine following intravenous, oral, and sublingual administration to exercised Thoroughbred horses
Authors: Knych H. K. , Seminoff K. , McKemie D. S. , Kass P. H.
Published: February 2018

Acepromazine is a tranquilizer used commonly in equine medicine. This study describes serum and urine concentrations and the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of acepromazine following intravenous, oral, and sublingual (SL) administration. Fifteen exercised adult Thoroughbred horses received a single intravenous, oral, and SL dose of 0.09 mg/kg of acepromazine. Blood and urine samples were collected at time 0 and at various times for up to 72 hr and analyzed for acepromazine and its two major metabolites (2‐(1‐hydroxyethyl) promazine and 2‐(1‐hydroxyethyl) promazine sulfoxide) using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry. Acepromazine was also incubated in vitro with whole equine blood and serum concentrations of the parent drug and metabolites determined. Acepromazine was quantitated for 24 hr following intravenous administration and 72 hr following oral and SL administration. Results of in vitro incubations with whole blood suggest additional metabolism byRBCs. The mean ± SEMelimination half‐life was 5.16 ± 0.450, 8.58 ± 2.23, and 6.70 ± 2.62 hr following intravenous, oral, and SL administration, respectively. No adverse effects were noted and horses appeared sedate as noted by a decrease in chin‐to‐ground distance within 5 (i.v.) or 15 (p.o. andSL) minutes postadministration. The duration of sedation lasted 2 hr. Changes in heart rate were minimal.
Backward SDEs for control with partial information
Authors: Papanicolaou Andrew
Published: February 2018

This paper considers a non‐Markov control problem arising in a financial market where asset returns depend on hidden factors. The problem is non‐Markov because nonlinear filtering is required to make inference on these factors, and hence the associated dynamic program effectively takes the filtering distribution as one of its state variables. This is of significant difficulty because the filtering distribution is a stochastic probability measure of infinite dimension, and therefore the dynamic program has a state that cannot be differentiated in the traditional sense. This lack of differentiability means that the problem cannot be solved using a Hamilton–Jacobi–Bellman equation. This paper will show how the problem can be analyzed and solved using backward stochastic differential equations, with a key tool being the problem's dual formulation.
Prediction of humpback whale group densities along the Brazilian coast using spatial autoregressive models
Authors: Pavanato Heloise J. , Mayer Fernando P. , Wedekin Leonardo L. , Engel Márcia H. , Kinas Paul G.
Published: February 2018

At the breeding grounds of most baleen whales the patchiness and gaps in spatial distribution results from interactions between behavior patterns and environmental conditions. We evaluated the influence of environmental factors (bathymetry and distance from shore with quadratic terms, and wind speed), effort, and spatial autocorrelation effects to predict humpback whale group density in the Southwest Atlantic Ocean. Count data of groups by grid cells were fitted with conditional autoregressive models (CAR). Bayesian inference was performedviaintegrated nested Laplace approximation. The best‐fit model contained distance from shore and its quadratic term, bathymetry, and the autoregressive component. Occupancy probability was high for the Abrolhos Bank, some cells from the northeast continental shelf and southeast margin, but gaps in occurrence were identified. High densities were estimated in the east continental margin, with the highest density in the Abrolhos Bank, in some cells of the northeast continental margin and in the southernmost area. We report that intermediate distances from the coast, and shallow waters were preferred for breeding and calving activities. We suggest that CAR models may incorporate aggregation mechanisms into habitat modeling and may provide advances in marine mammal analyses by accounting for residual autocorrelation.
Vaginal isolation of beta‐haemolytic Streptococcus from bitches with and without neonatal deaths in the litters
Authors: Guerrero AE , Stornelli MC , Jurado SB , Giacoboni G , Sguazza GH , de la Sota RL , Stornelli MA
Published: February 2018

Contents

The aim of the study was to identify beta‐haemolytic streptococci in the vagina of bitches who had delivered healthy litters and bitches who had delivered litters in which neonatal deaths occurred. Fifty‐one bitches divided into two groups were used. Group 1 (G1) included 28 bitches that had delivered healthy litters and group 2 (G2) included 23 bitches that had delivered puppies who died in the neonatal period. Two vaginal samples were taken, one in proestrus and the other at the end of gestation (EG). Beta‐haemolytic Streptococcus (BS) was isolated from 16 bitches (57%) in G1 and from 21 bitches (91%) in G2. The bacteriological cultures, serological tests (Streptex®) and PCR assay allowed identification of Streptococcus canis and Streptococcus dysgalactiae in G1 and G2. Ultramicroscopic studies allowed the observation of M Protein and capsules in strains of S. dysgalactiae and S. canis in G1 and G2. The S. canis strains isolated from G2 showed thicker capsules than S. canis strains isolated from G1 (234 ± 24.2 vs 151.23 ± 28.93 nm; p < .001.). No differences were observed in capsule thickness between strains of S. dysgalactiae isolated from G1 and G2 (210 ± 13.54 vs 211.66 ± 19.67 nm; p > .70). All strains of beta‐haemolytic Streptococcus isolated were penicillin sensitive. Penicillin was administered from EG to 5 days post‐partum in 10 G2 females with isolation of BS (G2A). Saline solution was administered in eleven G2 females with isolation of BS (G2B). Ninety per cent of the puppies survived in G2A and 25% survived in G2B. Our results suggest BS is involved in canine neonatal deaths.
Surgical lung biopsies in elderly patients with interstitial lung disease: Weighing up the pros and cons
Authors: Troy Lauren K.
Published: February 2018

See related Article
Handheld reflectance confocal microscopy, dermatoscopy and histopathological correlation of common inflammatory balanitis
Authors: Lacarrubba F. , Verzì A.E. , Ardigò M. , Micali G.
Published: February 2018

Background

The term balanitis includes a variety of inflammatory skin diseases involving the glans penis whose clinical diagnosis may be challenging. A biopsy is often required to obtain a definitive diagnosis, although it is barely accepted by patients. Reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM), that provides a real‐time, en face imaging of the epidermis and upper dermis, is currently utilized for the diagnosis of some neoplastic and inflammatory skin diseases. The aim of this study was to analyze the RCM handheld findings of some common balanitis and to correlate them with dermatoscopy and histopathological features.

Materials and Methods

Thirty‐two patients with biopsy‐proven diagnosis of psoriatic balanitis (10 patients), Zoon's balanitis (11 patients) and lichen sclerosus et atrophicus (11 patients) were evaluated using a handheld RCM device and ×10 dermatoscopy.

Results

At the end of the study, each disorder presented specific RCM patterns that correlated with dermatoscopy and histopathological findings.

Conclusion

The use of handheld RCM as complementary tool in everyday clinical practice for the evaluation of inflammatory diseases involving sensitive areas such as male genitalia, may contribute to reduce the need of invasive procedures.
The Role of Project-Based Work in Enhancing Students’ Autonomous Learning
Authors: Hebbouch Sarah
Published: February 2018

This study investigates the overall use of project-based work in enhancing Moroccan high school students’ autonomous learning and attenuating their being over-reliant on teachers. It was observed, in two Moroccan high schools, -where the study was carried out-, as is the case in many other English foreign language contexts, that students were generally unable to learn by themselves, and that teachers were the solemn imparters of knowledge and learners were merely passive receivers of that knowledge. The study involved a sample of 30 students from science stream belonging to two adjacent high schools, which are located in a big city in Morocco. In the absence of a standard framework on how to implement project-based work properly, effective ways on how project work can improve independent learning proved useful in this study. In order to collect data for the study, three major instruments were employed, involving students and teachers, namely observation, interviews, and survey questionnaires. The data analysis highlighted the importance of project-based strategy in boosting students’ autonomous learning, through analyzing interview excerpts of teachers’ and students’ experience with the concept The research findings revealed that teachers assigned projects for students but did not identify each student’s role within a group, which deepened students’ disorientation, and reinforced sheer dependence on the teachers. The interviews showed as well the difficulties teachers encountered when assigning projects. This study is but a roadmap to teachers who are willing to increase students’ autonomy and improve the quality of the teaching-learning situation. The study also identifies the role of the teacher and the stages that should be followed to a better achievement of results.
New taxa of oribatid mites from Korup National Park (Cameroon). The genus Pilizetes (Acari, Oribatida, Galumnidae)
Authors: Ermilov Sergey G. , Stary Josef , Kontschan Jeno
Published: February 2018

Two new species of oribatid mites of the genus Pilizetes (Oribatida, Galumnidae) are described from litter and soil in the Korup National Park (Cameroon). Pilizetes paradudichi sp. nov. differs from Pilizetes dudichi Balogh, 1966 by the presence of long interlamellar setae and clearly longer notogastral setae. Pilizetes parasellnicki sp. nov. differs from Pilizetes sellnicki Balogh, 1958 by the presence of thickened, heavily ciliated and long epimeral setae 3b, 4a, 4b and 4c.
Feeding deterrent effects of legume flours against two storage mites, Tyrophagus putrescentiae (Schrank) and Suidasia medanensis Oudemans (Acari:Acaridida)
Authors: Bakr Anar Abd Allah
Published: February 2018

Whole legume flour and its fractions possess a potential in controlling insect pests. Information concerning the activity of various legume flours as bioacaricides against storage mites is rare. Therefore, two kinds of legume flours were obtained from common faba bean (Vicia faba L.) and pea (Pisum sativum L.) seeds to evaluate their effects on growth and development time of two species of storage mites, Tyrophagus putrescentiae (Schrank) and Suidasia medanensis Oudemans via feeding test. The diet was dusted with legume flours at seven concentrations (0, 0.01, 0.1, 0.25, 0.5, 0.75 and 1%). After 21 days, the instantaneous rate of increase (ri) and mortality of both mite species were estimated. There was a significant decrease in (ri) values of both mite populations at concentrations higher than 0.1% of both legume flours. The concentration of 1% faba bean or pea flour was responsible for 100% mortality of T. putrescentiae and S. medanensis. Based on the LD50 and LD90values, pea flour was more toxic to T. putrescentiae and S. medanensis than faba bean flour. Moreover, T. putrescentiae was more sensitive than S. medanensis to legume flours. Development time of the two studied species was considerably prolonged by the addition of bean and pea flours. All tests were conducted under the optimal development conditions of storage mites. The results proved that both faba bean and pea flours possess potent acaricidal activity.
Population Pharmacokinetic Properties of Sulfadoxine and Pyrimethamine: a Pooled Analysis To Inform Optimal Dosing in African Children with Uncomplicated Malaria
Authors: de Kock Miné , Tarning Joel , Workman Lesley , Allen Elizabeth N. , Tekete Mamadou M. , Djimde Abdoulaye A. , Bell David J. , Ward Steve A. , Barnes Karen I. , Denti Paolo
Published: February 2018

Sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine with amodiaquine is recommended by the World Health Organization as seasonal malaria chemoprevention for children aged 3 to 59 months in the sub-Sahel regions of Africa. Suboptimal dosing in children may lead to treatment failure and increased resistance. Pooled individual patient data from four previously published trials on the pharmacokinetics of sulfadoxine and pyrimethamine in 415 pediatric and 386 adult patients were analyzed using nonlinear mixed-effects modeling to evaluate the current dosing regimen and, if needed, to propose an optimized dosing regimen for children under 5 years of age. The population pharmacokinetics of sulfadoxine and pyrimethamine were both best described by a one-compartment disposition model with first-order absorption and elimination. Body weight, age, and nutritional status (measured as the weight-for-age Z-score) were found to be significant covariates. Allometric scaling with total body weight and the maturation of clearance in children by postgestational age improved the model fit. Underweight-for-age children were found to have 15.3% and 26.7% lower bioavailabilities of sulfadoxine and pyrimethamine, respectively, for each Z-score unit below −2. Under current dosing recommendations, simulation predicted that the median day 7 concentration was below the 25th percentile for a typical adult patient (50 kg) for sulfadoxine for patients in the weight bands of 8 to 9, 19 to 24, 46 to 49, and 74 to 79 kg and for pyrimethamine for patients in the weight bands of 8 to 9, 14 to 24, and 42 to 49 kg. An evidence-based dosing regimen was constructed that would achieve sulfadoxine and pyrimethamine exposures in young children and underweight-for-age young children that were similar to those currently seen in a typical adult.
Evaluation of the Role of
stat3
in Antibody and T
H
17-Mediated Responses to Pneumococcal Immunization and Infection by Use of a Mouse Model of Autosomal Dominant Hyper-IgE Syndrome
Authors: Moffitt Kristin , Cheung Elaine , Manis John , Malley Richard
Published: February 2018

Loss-of-function mutations in the signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 gene (
stat3
) result in autosomal dominant hyper-IgE syndrome (AD-HIES), a condition in which patients have recurrent debilitating infections, including frequent pneumococcal and staphylococcal pneumonias.
stat3
mutations cause defective adaptive T
H
17 cellular responses, an immune mechanism believed to be critical for clearance of pneumococcal colonization and diminished antibody responses. Here we wished to evaluate the role of
stat3
in the clearance of pneumococcal carriage and immunity using mice with a
stat3
mutation recapitulating AD-HIES. We show here that naive AD-HIES mice have prolonged nasal carriage of pneumococcus compared to WT mice. Mutant and wild-type mice were then immunized with a pneumococcal whole-cell vaccine (WCV) that provides T
H
17-mediated protection against pneumococcal colonization and antibody-mediated protection against pneumonia and sepsis. WCV-immunized AD-HIES mice made significantly less pneumococcus-specific interleukin-17A (IL-17A) and antibody than WT mice. The WCV-elicited protection against colonization was abrogated in AD-HIES mice, but immunization with WCV still protected AD-HIES mice against aspiration pneumonia/sepsis. Taken together, our results suggest that impaired clearance of nasopharyngeal carriage due to poor adaptive IL-17A responses may contribute to the increased rates of pneumococcal respiratory infection in AD-HIES patients.