bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Incidence of ventilator-associated pneumonia in intensive care unit
Authors: Mota Écila C. , Oliveira Silvânia P. , Silveira Beatriz R. M. , Silva Patrick L. N. , Oliveira Adriana C.
Published: August 2017

Objective: To evaluate the incidence of ventilator-associated pneumonia in intensive care unit (ICU). Method: A retrospective cohort study, was carried in a university hospital. Univariate analyzes were performed using the chi-square test or Fisher’s exact test for categorical variables, and nonparametric Mann-Whitney test for numerical variables. Results: In a period of 24 months, 190 patients were admitted in the ICU, and 90.5% of them used mechanical ventilation. The incidence of ventilatorassociated pneumonia (VAP) was 23.2%, being notified in 100% of the patients who used the mechanical ventilation; the incidence density of VAP was 32.4/1000 ventilator days and the overall mortality associated with VAP was 72.7%. There was a positive association between the occurrence of pneumonia and the period of hospitalization in the intensive care unit > 15 days (RR: 7.29), time of mechanical ventilation > 10 days (RR: 11.33), and reintubation (RR: 6.31). Conclusion: pneumonia is considered a high morbidity condition in the intensive care unit. Thus, it is necessary to implement effective measures for quality and safety on the care of critically ill patients
The approach intersectoral for medical education in primary health care
Authors: Forster Aldaísa C. , Ferreira Janise B. B. , Lima Nereida Kilza da Costa , Galati Priscila Mina , Farche Renata
Published: August 2017

Introduction: The process of creating the Unified Health System (SUS) as one health care model more humanized, comprehensive, effective and decisive has intersectorality as one of its tools for transformation. However, there are few articles that address the intersectoral approach in the context of medical education and organization of practices, especially in primary care. Objective: Bring forth the concept of intersectionality and the principle of community orientation in the organization of practices in the reality of family health staffs, under the SUS. Method: Analysis of documents held to discuss the concept of intersectionality in the work of authors of Primary Health Care (PHC), the official documentation of the Ministry of Health and selected publications on intersectionality. It also discussed the community orientation in the given actions of Primary Health Care in the perception of the physician and the family health staffs in Brazil. It described the evolution of the former Family Health Program to the Family Health Strategy as reorganization model of PHC in the SUS and in the education scenario of the Family Health Units (FHU) involved in the Ribeirão Preto Medical School - University of São Paulo in the period from 1999 to 2014. Results: Official and scientific documentation consulted showed advance of changes in family health services, such as the PHC model of organization in the country. The setting of FHU oriented to PHC has contributed to the adaptation of medical training and health professionals in this area. Final Considerations: Nevertheless, perceiving the potential of intersectoral and practices geared towards the community in the health paradigm change, there is plenty to do in the broad sense of intersectionality comprising addressing the social determinants of health in local integrated plan
Description of hospital pharmacy management practice
Authors: Pereira Laura M. V. , Abramovicius Alexandra C. , Ungari Andrea Q. , Oliveira Heloisa B. D. , Aragon Davi C. , Costa Andre L. , Forster Aldaisa C.
Published: August 2017

Health institutions, particularly hospitals, are characterized as complex structures that need managers with a global view of the institution and its relations with the external environment. The hospital pharmacy is a strategic unit, which cooperates with the institutional management and integrates the multiprofessional team in the process related to the acquisition, provision and control of essential inputs for the inpatient care process. The objective in this study is to demonstrate the applicability, in the context of hospital-based health, of a performance measuring system at the pharmacy. Method: A descriptive and longitudinal study was undertaken on the evolution of the key indicator Absence Rate of Standardized Drugs in inpatient care between March 2004 and December 2013. This indicator was employed to monitor the impact of changes the Pharmacy Division has been implementing, as the first step of the pharmaceutical care cycle in the model of the process-based managed approach at a public university hospital. Qualitative data collection methods were used, including observation and documentary analysis, as well as quantitative data collection. Results: After the application of the model, one point of change in the key performance indicator was detected in the tenth month, when the process-based management model was implemented at the pharmacy. Conclusions: The process-based management approach was effective for the hospital pharmacy. The premise adopted is that the administrative changes (interferences), focused on the improvement of the processes and the selection and monitoring of indicators, influence the processes, reducing the variability and improving the quality
Case report: Diffuse large B cells lymphoma in the cervix
Authors: Queiroz Rodolfo M. , Melges Gustavo C. , Paron Juliane A. , Félix Paulo R. , Landell Glaucia A. M. , Febronio Eduardo M. , Castro e Silva Márcio
Published: August 2017

We report the case of a woman, 32 years old, white, previously healthy, presenting vaginal discharge and metrorrhagia for three months. Pap smear described intensely hemorrhagic smear and high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions with severe dysplasia (CIN III). Transvaginal ultrasound and MRI of the pelvis characterized an increase in the dimensions of the cervix, displaying aspect “barrel” due process of expansive diffuse infiltrative appearance. The histopathological and immunohistochemistry of the cervical biopsy showed a diffuse non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma large B cell
Angiosarcoma of the scalp: case report
Authors: Martinez Daniela de Abreu e Silva , Lyra Marcelo Rosandiski , Cuzzi Tullia , Macedo Priscila Marques de , Lima Ricardo Barbosa , Martins Carlos José
Published: August 2017

Angiosarcoma of the head and neck is a rare vascular sarcoma associated with high rates of local recurrence and distant metastasis and a poor prognosis. The diagnosis of cutaneous angiosarcoma can be challenging because it often presents insidiously as a bruiselike lesion or a purplish papule thatmay be mistaken for a benign lesion such as hemangioma. The tumor size is a important prognostic factor and a multimodality treatment approach is imperative for successful outcomes. This study reports the case of 58-years-man with angiosarcoma of the scalp aggressive and a poor prognosis
Asthma: profile of infant population at the Health Center of Vitória Régia, Sorocaba
Authors: Sorio Gabriella N. , Edelmuth Stephanie V. C. L. , Utiyama Thaís O. , Almeida Janie M. de
Published: August 2017

Introduction: Asthma is a chronic inflammatory disease of the airways that not only constitutes a public health issue, but also compromises the development of children affected by the condition. Its multifactorial origin suggests that the association of certain factors, such as low maternal education, passive smoking, inadequate hygiene and immunization and limited breast-feeding, causes higher asthma incidence. Study design: descriptive study. Aims of the study: to determine the profile and factors associated to the asthmatic children participating in the Asthma Control Program at the Health Center of Vitória Régia, Sorocaba/SP. Methods: Descriptive study conducted with the infant population of the Asthma Control Program, composed of 42 children. Children between 5 and 7 years old were included in the study and, as an exclusion criterion, children whose responsible did not agree to participate in the research. During the period of October 2014 to April 2015 questionnaires were applied to the responsible for the participating minor, after signature of a written informed consent. The collected data were analyzed by multivariate statistics. Results: Results indicated that the participating children are majorly male (66.7%), without history of intrauterine exposure to tobacco(89,7%) or passive smoking (69,2%), and received exclusive breast-feeding (92,3%) until approximately 5 months of age. The majority of children did not present diarrhea or respiratory infections in the first year of life and were not diagnosed with rhinitis and/or eczema. However, we verified that most infants have family history of asthma and/ or atopy. The factorial analysis showed that the first three factors describe 80,71% of the variability of the sample. Statistically, the variables gender, animal presence, rhinitis and/or eczema diagnosis and breastfeeding stand out in the description of the studied population. Conclusions: We concluded that the findings of this study are, in many of the analyzed items, compatible with current literature. Variables such as gender and animal presence were consistent with findings from other studies, even considering the convenience sample. Regarding breastfeeding and its duration, the results contradict some scientific references, reinforcing that conclusions are conflicting in this aspect. Despite many studies that refer a beneficial effect of breastfeeding on the prevention of asthma, this variable was strongly associated to the analyzed sample. The application of a multivariate analysis allowed the identification of the variables most relevant to this group, among the main existing risk factors for asthma
Pharmacotherapy for general practitioners
Authors: Baes Cristiane von Werne , Juruena Mário Francisco
Published: August 2017

The objective of this article is to introduce the graduate students of healthcare courses, especially medical students, into the psychopharmacotherapy field for the treatment of mental disorders. To this aim, we performed a comprehensive review of the main psychoactive drugs used today, their mechanisms of action, indications and contraindications, side effects. We also provided guidelines for their use in daily clinical practice
Psychotherapies: introductory concepts for healthcare students
Authors: Osório Flávia de Lima , Mendes Ana Irene Fonseca , Pavan-Cândido Caroline da Cruz , Silva Uanda Cristina Almeida
Published: August 2017

The psychotherapies can be defined as method of as therapeutic procedures based on different theoretical and technical concepts, conceived to help the patient to cope with his/her emotional, cognitive and behavioral problems. The present study aims are: a) to review the main technical and theoretical concepts associated with psychotherapy, especially those based on psychoanalytic/psychodynamic and cognitive-behavioral theoretical concepts and, b) to discuss some peculiarities of the psychotherapy of groups. This material is intented to be used as a reference to beginners students of this field of knowledge as well as others specialties of the health-related context
Psychiatric emergencies: psychomotor agitation management and suicide risk assessment
Authors: Del-Ben Cristina Marta , Sponholz-Junior Alcion , Mantovani Célia , Faleiros Maria Clara de Morais , Oliveira Gabriel Elias Correa de , Guapo Vinicius Guandalini , Marques João Mazzoncini de Azevedo
Published: August 2017

The objective of this article is to present guidelines and assessment protocols of frequently observed conditions in the context of psychiatric emergencies, namely, management of agitation and evaluation of suicide risk. The peculiarities of the interaction between psychiatric emergency and mental health services and the differential diagnosis of first-episode psychosis are briefly presented. Based on scientific evidence associated with our clinical experience, we discuss the skills and competencies needed for the management of emergencies in psychiatry, with emphasis on psychiatric interview techniques, attitudinal/ behavioral approach and pharmacological interventions
Day-to-Day Blood Pressure Variability and Risk of Dementia in a General Japanese Elderly Population
Authors: Oishi Emi , Ohara Tomoyuki , Sakata Satoko , Fukuhara Masayo , Hata Jun , Yoshida Daigo , Shibata Mao , Ohtsubo Toshio , Kitazono Takanari , Kiyohara Yutaka , Ninomiya Toshiharu
Published: August 2017

Background:

Several observational studies have reported that higher visit-to-visit blood pressure variability is a risk factor for cognitive impairment and dementia. However, no studies have investigated the association of day-to-day blood pressure variability assessed by home blood pressure measurement with the development of dementia.

Methods:

A total of 1674 community-dwelling Japanese elderly without dementia, ≥60 years of age, were followed up for 5 years (2007–2012). Home blood pressure was measured 3 times every morning for a median of 28 days. Day-to-day systolic (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure variabilities, calculated as coefficients of variation (CoV) of home SBP and diastolic blood pressure, were categorized into quartiles. The hazard ratios and their 95% confidence intervals of the CoV levels of home blood pressure on the development of all-cause dementia, vascular dementia (VaD), and Alzheimer disease (AD) were computed with a Cox proportional hazards model.

Results:

During the follow-up, 194 subjects developed all-cause dementia; of these, 47 had VaD and 134 had AD. The age- and sex-adjusted incidences of all-cause dementia, VaD, and AD increased significantly with increasing CoV levels of home SBP (all
P
for trend <0.05). These associations remained unchanged after adjustment for potential confounding factors, including home SBP. Compared with subjects in the first quartile of CoV levels of home SBP, the risks of the development of all-cause dementia, VaD, and AD were significantly higher in those in the fourth quartile (hazard ratio=2.27, 95% confidence interval=1.45–3.55,
P
<0.001 for all-cause dementia; hazard ratio=2.79, 95% confidence interval=1.04–7.51,
P
=0.03 for VaD; hazard ratio=2.22, 95% confidence interval=1.31–3.75,
P
<0.001 for AD). Similar associations were observed for CoV levels of home diastolic blood pressure. Meanwhile, home SBP levels were significantly associated with the risk of VaD but not with the risks of all-cause dementia and AD. There was no interaction between home SBP levels and CoV levels of home SBP on the risk of each subtype of dementia.

Conclusions:

Our findings suggest that increased day-to-day blood pressure variability is, independently of average home blood pressure, a significant risk factor for the development of all-cause dementia, VaD, and AD in the general elderly Japanese population.
A Comparative Synopsis of the Enforcement of Market Abuse Prohibition in Australia and South Africa
Authors: Chitimira Howard
Published: August 2017

In Australia, the market abuse prohibition is generally well accepted by the investing and non-investing public as well as by the government. This co-operative and co-ordinated approach on the part of all the relevant stakeholders has to date given rise to an increased awareness and commendable combating of market abuse activities in the Australian corporations, companies and securities markets. It is against this background that this article seeks to explore the general enforcement approaches that are employed to combat market abuse (insider trading and market manipulation) activity in Australia. In relation to this, the role of selected enforcement authorities and possible enforcement methods which may be learnt from the Australian experience will be isolated where necessary for consideration in the South African market abuse regulatory framework.
As Beautiful as an Artwork! (芸術作品のように美しい！——芸術美と自然美についての再考)
Authors: Aota Mami , 青田 麻未
Published: August 2017

The difference and similarity between artistic and natural beauty has been a much-debated topic amongst aestheticians. Allen Carlson – a leading scholar in environmental aesthetics since the late 1970s – claims that we should not appreciate natural beauty in terms of artistic beauty. For Carlson, appreciating “nature as nature” is fundamental.

In my eyes, it is hard to deny that nature should be appreciated as nature. However, it is also true that influences from our aesthetic appreciation of artworks should be taken into account when it comes to appreciating the natural environment. To support this argument, I will show that the expression “as beautiful as an artwork!” does not run against the fundamental of “nature as nature” when applied to natural beauty.

芸術美と自然美の差異は、美学者のあいだでも多く議論される話題のひとつである。1970年代より環境美学を牽引してきたアレン・カールソンは、自然美を芸術美の規範で以て鑑賞するべきではないと主張する。かれにとって、「自然を自然として」鑑賞することが根本的に重要なことがらである。

本稿もまた、自然を自然として鑑賞するという要請そのものを否定することはしない。しかし、自然環境の鑑賞について考える際、芸術作品の美的鑑賞からの影響もまた数え入れられるべきだということもひとつの事実である。このことを示すために、本稿では「芸術作品のように美しい！」という表現は、「自然を自然として」という基礎的な要請に反するものではないことを明らかにする。

This article is in Japanese.
Ethics for A-Level
Authors: Dimmock Mark , Fisher Andrew
Published: August 2017

What does pleasure have to do with morality? What role, if any, should intuition have in the formation of moral theory? If something is ‘simulated’, can it be immoral?

This accessible and wide-ranging textbook explores these questions and many more. Key ideas in the fields of normative ethics, metaethics and applied ethics are explained rigorously and systematically, with a vivid writing style that enlivens the topics with energy and wit. Individual theories are discussed in detail in the first part of the book, before these positions are applied to a wide range of contemporary situations including business ethics, sexual ethics, and the acceptability of eating animals. A wealth of real-life examples, set out with depth and care, illuminate the complexities of different ethical approaches while conveying their modern-day relevance.

This concise and highly engaging resource is tailored to the Ethics components of AQA Philosophy and OCR Religious Studies, with a clear and practical layout that includes end-of-chapter summaries, key terms, and common mistakes to avoid. It should also be of practical use for those teaching Philosophy as part of the International Baccalaureate.

Ethics for A-Level is of particular value to students and teachers, but Fisher and Dimmock’s precise and scholarly approach will appeal to anyone seeking a rigorous and lively introduction to the challenging subject of ethics.
On the Detection of Hail Using Satellite Passive Microwave Radiometers and Precipitation Radar
Authors: Ni Xiang , Liu Chuntao , Cecil Daniel J. , Zhang Qinghong
Published: August 2017

In previous studies, remote sensing properties of hailstorms have been discussed using various spaceborne sensors. Relationships between hail occurrence and strong passive microwave brightness temperature depressions have been established. Using a 16-yr precipitation-feature database derived from the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) satellite, the performance of the TRMM Precipitation Radar and TRMM Microwave Imager is further investigated for hail detection. Detection criteria for hail larger than 19 mm are separately developed from Ku-band radar reflectivity and microwave brightness temperature properties of precipitation features that are collocated with surface hail reports over the southeastern and south-central United States. A threshold of 44 dBZ at −22°C is found to have the highest critical success index and Heidke skill score. The threshold of 230 K at 37 GHz yields the best scores among passive microwave properties. Using these two thresholds, global distributions of possible hail events are generated over 65°S–65°N using two years of observations from the Global Precipitation Measurement Core Observatory satellite. Differences in the derived hail geographical distributions are found between radar and passive microwave methods over tropical South America, the “Maritime Continent,” west-central Africa, Argentina, and South Africa. These discrepancies result from different vertical structures of the maximum radar reflectivity profiles over these regions relative to the southeastern and south-central United States, where the thresholds were established. Those differences generally led to overestimates in the tropics from the passive microwave methods, relative to the radar-based methods.
Scattering of a Semidiurnal Barotropic Kelvin Wave into Internal Waves over Wide Continental Shelves
Authors: Yankovsky Alexander E. , Zhang Tianyi
Published: August 2017

In boundary areas of the World Ocean, a semidiurnal tide propagates in the form of a Kelvin wave mode trapped by the coastline. Over wide continental shelves, the semidiurnal tide is no longer a pure Kelvin wave but attains features of a zero-mode edge wave. As a result, the wave structure and the alongshore energy flux concentrate over the continental shelf and slope topography and become very sensitive to the variations of shelf geometry. When a semidiurnal Kelvin wave encounters alongshore changes of the shelf width, its energy scatters into other wave modes, including internal waves. A particularly strong scattering occurs on wide shelves, where Kelvin wave structure undergoes significant modifications over short alongshore distances. These dynamics are studied using the Regional Ocean Modeling System (ROMS). This study found that when the alongshore energy flux in the Kelvin wave mode converges on the shelf, the offshore wave radiation occurs through barotropic waves, while for the divergent alongshore energy flux, internal waves are generated. Under favorable conditions, more than 10% of the incident barotropic Kelvin wave energy flux can be scattered into internal waves. For the surface-intensified stratification mostly the first internal mode is generated, while for the uniform with depth stratification, multiple internal modes are present in the form of an internal wave beam. A nondimensional internal wave scattering parameter is derived based on the theoretical properties of a Kelvin wave mode, bottom topography, and stratification.
The Biology Underlying Abnormalities of Tooth Number in Humans
Authors: Juuri E. , Balic A.
Published: August 2017

In past decades, morphologic, molecular, and cellular mechanisms that govern tooth development have been extensively studied. These studies demonstrated that the same signaling pathways regulate development of the primary and successional teeth. Mutations of these pathways lead to abnormalities in tooth development and number, including aberrant tooth shape, tooth agenesis, and formation of extra teeth. Here, we summarize the current knowledge on the development of the primary and successional teeth in animal models and describe some of the common tooth abnormalities in humans.
Is There a Role for Internal Bracing and Repair of the Anterior Cruciate Ligament? A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: van Eck Carola F. , Limpisvasti Orr , ElAttrache Neal S.
Published: August 2017

Background:

Renewed interest has arisen in arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) repair techniques.

Hypothesis:

ACL repair with or without some form of internal bracing could lead to good outcomes in a carefully selected subset of patients.

Study Design:

Systematic review.

Methods:

An electronic database search was performed to identify 89 papers describing preclinical and clinical studies on the outcome of ACL repair.

Results:

Proximal ACL tear patterns showed a better healing potential with primary repair than distal or midsubstance tears. Some form of internal bracing increased the success rate of ACL repair. Improvement in the biological characteristics of the repair was obtained by bone marrow access by drilling tunnels or microfracture. Augmentation with platelet-rich plasma was beneficial only in combination with a structural scaffold. Skeletally immature patients had the best outcomes. Acute repair offered improved outcomes with regard to load, stiffness, laxity, and rerupture.

Conclusion:

ACL repair may be a viable option in young patients with acute, proximal ACL tears. The use of internal bracing, biological augmentation, and scaffold tissue may increase the success rate of repair.
Prevalence and Management of Coracoid Fracture Sustained During Sporting Activities and Time to Return to Sport: A Systematic Review
Authors: Knapik Derrick M. , Patel Sunny H. , Wetzel Robert J. , Voos James E.
Published: August 2017

Background:

Coracoid fractures sustained during sporting activities are rare. Previous reports are limited to individual case reports, small case series, and retrospective analyses.

Purpose:

To systematically review the literature and identify coracoid fractures sustained during sporting activities to determine fracture prevalence, sporting activities/mechanisms, management, and time to return to sport.

Study Design:

Systematic review.

Methods:

A systematic review was conducted investigating all studies in the literature published between January 1970 and April 2017 that reported on athletes sustaining coracoid fractures during sporting activity. The systematic review followed the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines and used PubMed, Biosis Previews, SPORTDiscus, PEDro, and EMBASE databases. Inclusion criteria were studies detailing (1) coracoid fractures with reported sporting activity causing injury, (2) fracture management (operative vs nonoperative), and (3) patient outcome. Exclusion criteria were (1) studies concerning fractures secondary to nonsporting activities (mechanical falls, motor vehicle accidents) and (2) studies not reporting fracture management or patient outcomes. Sporting activities, the presence or absence of associated acromioclavicular (AC) joint injury, fracture management, patient outcomes, and time to return to sport were analyzed.

Results:

A total of 21 cases of coracoid fractures sustained during sporting activity were identified; acute trauma was responsible for 71% (n = 15/21) of fractures, and the remaining injuries were secondary to fatigue fractures. Concurrent AC joint injury was present in 60% (n = 9/15) of athletes sustaining acute trauma and in no athlete with fatigue fractures. Fractures were treated conservatively in 76% (n = 16/21) of patients, with only 19% (n = 3/16) of athletes reporting complications. Mean overall time to return to sport was 2.8 ± 2.0 months; no significant differences in return to sport were noted in athletes with traumatic versus fatigue fractures or those with or without AC joint injury.

Conclusion:

Coracoid fractures secondary to sporting activities are rare, occurring primarily from direct trauma with associated AC joint injury, and are treated successfully with nonoperative management. No difference in return to sport was found regardless of fracture mechanism, treatment, or the presence of associated AC joint injury.
Topological Relations Between Objects Are Categorically Coded
Authors: Lovett Andrew , Franconeri Steven L.
Published: August 2017

How do individuals compare images—for example, two graphs or diagrams—to identify differences between them? We argue that categorical relations between objects play a critical role. These relations divide continuous space into discrete categories, such as “above” and “below,” or “containing” and “overlapping,” which are remembered and compared more easily than precise metric values. These relations should lead to categorical perception, such that viewers find it easier to notice a change that crosses a category boundary (one object is now above, rather than below, another, or now contains, rather than overlaps with, another) than a change of equal magnitude that does not cross a boundary. We tested the influence of a set of topological categorical relations from the cognitive-modeling literature. In a visual same/different comparison task, viewers more accurately noticed changes that crossed relational category boundaries, compared with changes that did not cross these boundaries. The results highlight the potential of systematic exploration of the boundaries of between-object relational categories.
Epidemiologic survey of feline leukemia virus in domestic cats on Tsushima Island, Japan: management strategy for Tsushima leopard cats
Authors: Makundi Isaac , Koshida Yushi , Kuse Kyohei , Hiratsuka Takahiro , Ito Jumpei , Baba Takuya , Watanabe Shinya , Kawamura Maki , Odahara Yuka , Miyake Ariko , Yamamoto Hanae , Kuniyoshi Sawako , Onuma Manabu , Nishigaki Kazuo
Published: August 2017

The Tsushima leopard cat (TLC) Prionailurus bengalensis euptilurus, a subspecies of P. bengalensis, is designated a National Natural Monument of Japan, and lives only on Tsushima Island, Nagasaki Prefecture, Japan. TLCs are threatened by various infectious diseases. Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) causes a serious infectious disease with a poor prognosis in cats. Therefore, the transmission of FeLV from Tsushima domestic cats (TDCs) to TLCs may threaten the TLC population. We investigated the FeLV infection status of both TDCs and TLCs on Tsushima Island by screening blood samples for FeLV p27 antigen and using PCR to amplify the full-length FeLV env gene. The prevalence of FeLV was 6.4% in TDCs and 0% in TLCs. We also demonstrated that the virus can replicate in the cells of TLCs, suggesting its potential cross-species transmission. The viruses in TDCs were classified as genotype I/clade 3, which is prevalent on a nearby island, based on previous studies of FeLV genotypes and FeLV epidemiology. The FeLV viruses identified on Tsushima Island can be further divided into 2 lineages within genotype I/clade 3, which are geographically separated in Kamijima and Shimojima, indicating that FeLV may have been transmitted to Tsushima Island at least twice. Monitoring FeLV infection in the TDC and TLC populations is highly recommended as part of the TLC surveillance and management strategy.
Propagation characteristics of transverse surface wave in a heterogeneous layer cladded with a piezoelectric stratum and an isotropic substrate
Authors: Singh Abhishek K , Parween Zeenat , Kumar Santan , Chattopadhyay Amares
Published: August 2017

An analytical treatment studying the propagation behavior of Love-type wave in a piezoelectric layer bonded perfectly to an isotropic heterogeneous layer overlying an unbounded isotropic homogeneous substrate has been taken into account. Debye asymptotic expansion has been employed to attain the closed-form expressions of dispersion relation for both the cases of electrically open condition and electrically short condition. The significant impact of various affecting parameters, namely, wave number, piezoelectric constant and dielectric constant of the uppermost piezoelectric layer, width ratio of the layers, and heterogeneity parameter of the intermediate isotropic layer on the phase velocity of Love-type wave, has been remarkably traced out by means of numerical computation and graphical illustrations. In addition to this, comparative study has been carried out to unfold the concealed characteristics of the problem. As a special case of the problem, it is identified that the established dispersion relation for both the cases of electrically open condition and electrically short condition is in well agreement with the classical Love wave equation.
System identification and robust position control for electro-hydraulic servo system using hybrid model predictive control
Authors: Yuan Hai-Bo , Na Hong-Cheol , Kim Young-Bae
Published: August 2017

This paper examined system identification using grey-box model estimation and position-tracking control for an electro-hydraulic servo system (EHSS) using hybrid controller composed of proportional-integral control (PIC) and model predictive control (MPC). The nonlinear EHSS model is represented by differential equations. We identify model parameters and verify their accuracy against experimental data in MATLAB to evaluate the validity of this mathematical model. To guarantee improved performance of EHSS and precision of cylinder position, we propose a hybrid controller composed of PIC and MPC. The controller is designed using the Control Design and Simulation module in the Laboratory Virtual Instrumentation Engineering Workbench (LabVIEW). A LabVIEW-based experimental rig is developed to apply the proposed controller in real time. Then, the validity and performance superiority of the hybrid controller were confirmed by comparing them with the MPC and PIC results. Results of real-life experiments show improved robustness and dynamic and static properties of EHSS.
The impact of ultraviolet light exposure on the performance of polybenzidimazole and polyaramid fabrics: Prediction of end-of-life performance
Authors: Houshyar Shadi , Padhye Rajiv , Ranjan Sandip , Tew Steve , Nayak Rajkishore
Published: August 2017

This study evaluated the deterioration in thermo-mechanical and performance properties of the polyaramid and polybenzidimazole fabric used in firefighters’ protective clothing after exposure to ultraviolet irradiation, and the effect of weathering. The performance of firefighters’ protective clothing plays an important role in protection against heat and physical threats to firefighters. However, frequent exposure to heat and ultraviolet irradiation can deteriorate performance. Test results demonstrated a 79% drop in the residual strength of polybenzidimazole/Kevlar® fabric and a 51% drop in the residual strength of polyaramid (Nomex® IIIA). The results confirmed that heat accelerates the degradation of PBI, resulting in lower performance, an important consideration for firefighters’ protective clothing. In this study, a new ‘UVPro-Tex’ sensor was developed, with the capability to record the amount of ultraviolet irradiation absorbed by the fabric. When the amount of the absorbed ultraviolet irradiation reaches a critical value, the sensor warns the wearer of the end-of-life of the garment.
Dosimetry Verification of 125I Seeds Implantation With Three-Dimensional Printing Noncoplanar Templates and CT Guidance for Paravertebral/Retroperitoneal Malignant Tumors
Authors: Ji Zhe , Jiang Yuliang , Su Liang , Guo Fuxin , Peng Ran , Sun Haitao , Fan Jinghong , Wang Junjie
Published: August 2017

Objective:

To compare dose distributions of postoperative plans with preoperative plans for radioactive seed implantation of paravertebral/retroperitoneal tumors assisted by 3-dimensional printing noncoplanar templates and computed tomography.

Methods:

Sixteen patients with paravertebral/retroperitoneal tumors (21 lesions) underwent radioactive seed implantation with 3-dimensional printing noncoplanar templates. Prescribed dose was 110 to 160 Gy. We compared the dose distribution of the postoperative plan with the preoperative plan. Dose parameters were D90, minimum peripheral dose, V100, V150, conformal index and external index of the target volume, and the dose received by 2 cm3 of normal tissue of organs at risk (spinal cord, aorta, and kidney).

Results:

Sixteen 3-dimensional printing noncoplanar templates were produced for 21 treatment areas. Mean gross tumor volume (preoperative) of patients was 61.1 cm3, mean needle number was 17, mean number of implanted 125I seeds was 65, and mean D90 of postoperative target area (gross tumor volume) was 131.1 Gy. Actual number of seeds postbrachytherapy increased by 1 to 12 in 8 cases. For postoperative plans, the mean D90, minimum peripheral dose, V100, V150 was 131.1 Gy, 67.1 Gy, 90.2%, and 64.1%, respectively, and 135.0 Gy, 64.7 Gy, 90.9%, and 64.1%, respectively, in preoperative plans. Comparing with the preplanned cases, the dose of the target volume was slightly lower and the high-dose area of the target volume was larger in postoperative cases, but the difference was not statistically significant ( P > .05). Actual dose conformity of the target volume was lower than preplanned, and the difference was statistically significant ( P = .005).

Conclusion:

Three-dimensional printing noncoplanar templates can provide good accuracy for positioning and direction in radioactive seed implantation.
The function of myths about great leaders in human culture: A cultural evolutionary perspective
Authors: Popper Micha , Castelnovo Omri
Published: August 2017

The discussion takes an evolutionary–cultural perspective in which (a) humans are inherently attracted to large figures (i.e., leaders, heroes), perceived as competent and benevolent entities; (b) the large figure’s influence rests largely on evolutionary phylogenetic biases; (c) the large figure’s effects are expressed through a mechanism designed to transmit cultural knowledge vertically. The suggested view sheds a different light on the psychological and cultural functions of myths about great leaders, and allows us to examine issues such as charisma and culture, the place of the leader in creating collective identity and transmission of cultural norms and practices. Research directions derived from the suggested approach are discussed.
Activation and expression of μ-calpain in dorsal root contributes to RTX-induced mechanical allodynia
Authors: Yuan Xiao-Cui , Wu Cai-Hua , Gao Fang , Li Hong-Ping , Xiang Hong-Chun , Zhu He , Pan Xiao-Li , Lin Li-Xue , Liu Yan-Shen , Yu Wei , Tian Bo , Meng Xian-Fang , Li Man
Published: August 2017

Background

Calpain is a calcium-dependent cysteine protease, and inhibition of calpain by pre-treatment with MDL28170 attenuated the rat mechanical allodynia in a variety of pain models. Postherpetic neuralgia (Shingles) is a neuropathic pain conditioned with the presence of profound mechanical allodynia. Systemic injection of resiniferatoxin can reproduce the clinical symptoms of postherpetic neuralgia. In this study, we determined to study whether activation of calpain contributes to cleave the myelin basic protein of dorsal root and is involved in resiniferatoxin-induced mechanical allodynia of postherpetic neuralgia animal model.

Results

Resiniferatoxin up-regulated the expression and activation of µ-calpain in dorsal root. The expression of µ-calpain was located in Schwann cell of dorsal root, and resiniferatoxin increased the expression of µ-calpain in Schwann cell in L4–L6 dorsal root at six weeks after injection. Resiniferatoxin also induced myelin basic protein degradation in L4–L6 dorsal root at six weeks after injection. Moreover, intraperitoneal injection of calpain inhibitor MDL28170 prevented the degradation of myelin basic protein and then reduced the sprouting of myelinated afferent fibers into spinal lamina II, thus relieving resiniferatoxin-induced mechanical allodynia.

Conclusions

Up-regulation and activation of µ-calpain located in Schwann cell may be the mechanism underlying resiniferatoxin-mediated proteolysis of myelin basic protein in dorsal root. Calpain inhibitor MDL28170 prevents resiniferatoxin-induced sprouting of myelinated afferent fibers and mechanical allodynia through inhibition of degradation of the myelin basic protein in dorsal root. Our results indicate that inhibition of pathological µ-calpain activation may present an interesting novel drug target in the treatment of postherpetic neuralgia.
Insights on pulmonary tumor thrombotic microangiopathy: a seven‐patient case series
Authors: Godbole Rohit , Saggar Rajan , Zider Alexander , Betancourt Jamie , Wallace William D. , Suh Robert D. , Kamangar Nader
Published: August 2017

Pulmonary tumor thrombotic microangiopathy (PTTM) is a disease process wherein tumor cells are thought to embolize to the pulmonary circulation causing pulmonary hypertension (PH) and death from right heart failure. Presented herein are clinical, laboratory, radiographic, and histologic features across seven cases of PTTM. Highlighted in this publication are also involvement of pulmonary venules and clinical features distinguishing PTTM from clinical mimics.

We conducted a retrospective chart review of seven cases of PTTM from hospitals in the greater Los Angeles metropolitan area.

Patients in this series exhibited: symptoms of cough and progressive dyspnea; PH and/or heart failure on physical exam; laboratory abnormalities of anemia, thrombocytopenia, elevated LDH, and elevated D‐dimer; chest computed tomography (CT) showing diffuse septal thickening, mediastinal and hilar lymphadenopathy and nodules; elevated pulmonary artery pressures on transthoracic echocardiogram and/or right heart catheterization; and presence of malignancy. Tumor emboli and fibrocellular intimal proliferation were seen in pulmonary arterioles, while two patients had pulmonary venopathy.

PTTM is a devastating disease occurring in patients with metastatic carcinoma. An early diagnosis is challenging. Understanding the clinical presentation of PTTM and distinguishing PTTM from clinical mimics may help achieve an early diagnosis and allow time for initiation of treatment.
Interval training early after heart failure decompensation is safe and improves exercise tolerance and quality of life in selected patients
Authors: Doletsky Artem , Andreev Denis , Giverts Ilya , Svet Alexey , Brand Anna , Kuklina Maria , Sedov Vsevolod , Dikur Oxana , Syrkin Abram , Saner Hugo
Published: August 2017

Aims

To evaluate safety and efficacy of moderate intensity interval exercise training early after heart failure decompensation on exercise tolerance and health-related quality of life (HRQoL).

Methods and results

This is a prospective randomized controlled study. We screened 234 consecutive patients admitted with decompensated heart failure; 46 patients (42 men/4 women; 61 ± 12 years of age) were randomized to a moderate intensity aerobic interval training ( n = 24) or to a control group ( n = 22). Patients underwent cardiopulmonary exercise testing, echocardiography and Minnesota Living with Heart Failure questionnaire (MLHFQ) at baseline, after three weeks and after three months. After three weeks, peak-VO2 increased by 17% in the training group ( p = 0.003) with further increase by 10% after three months ( p < 0.001) but did not change significantly in controls. MLHFQ score improved after three weeks, with better results in the training group (from 64.6 ± 15.6 to 30.8 ± 12.9, p < 0.001). After three months, MLHFQ further improved in the exercise training group, but not in controls. Left ventricular ejection fraction was not significantly different between the two groups at baseline and after three months. No serious adverse events related to exercise testing or training were observed.

Conclusions

Interval exercise training early after an episode of heart failure decompensation is safe and effective in improving exercise tolerance and health-related quality of life in selected patients after achievement of clinical stability. Positive effects remained sustained after three months. Further studies are needed to define role and indications for interval exercise training early after heart failure decompensation.
Impact of organophosphate exposure on farmers’ health in Kulon Progo, Yogyakarta: Perspectives of physical, emotional and social health
Authors: Perwitasari Dyah Aryani , Prasasti Dian , Supadmi Woro , Jaikishin Sonia Amelia Dewi , Wiraagni Idha Arfianti
Published: August 2017

Objective:

The exposure of organophosphate could be caused by the absorption in some parts of the body like skin and breath. Toxicity may cause nausea, vomiting and dizziness which are not too specific related with the pesticide toxicity. The purpose of this study is to understand the association between organophosphate exposure and farmers’ health in Kulon Progo County from the perspectives of physical, emotional and social health.

Methods:

This study was conducted using descriptive observational design. The blood sample was collected during harvesting periods in 2016. The inclusion criterion of farmers was using organophosphate-contained pesticide during the planting period of red onion. The farmers who had renal disease, liver disease and cancer were excluded. The organophosphate exposure parameters were the duration and frequency of pesticide application, width of the area, serum cholinesterase activity and the completeness of personal protective equipment.

Results:

Among 84 farmers, most of them were male (85.7%), and the mean age was 49.1 (standard deviation: 12.5) years; 71.4% of the subjects experienced tremor, 17.86% experienced dizziness and 8.33% subjects experienced nausea–vomiting after pesticide application. According to the pesticide application, in average, subjects used pesticide 1.4 h/day with the area of 1.285 m2. The frequency of pesticide used is three times per week. Around 97.6% subjects used incomplete personal protective equipment. The average of serum cholinesterase activity in subjects with tremor is higher than subjects without tremor (p > 0.05). There is a significant association between serum cholinesterase activity and creatinine content (p < 0.05). The farmers’ quality-of-life domain scores are lower than the scores of the normal population in Yogyakarta.

Conclusion:

Organophosphate exposure may affect the farmers’ physical health and quality of life.
The organisation and needs of young sections belonging to UEG National Societies: Results of a Europe‐wide survey
Authors: Ianiro Gianluca , Castro Valeria , Dolak Werner , Ilie Mădălina , Holleran Grainne , Salaga Maciej , van Herwaarden Yasmijn , Burisch Johan ,   UEG Young Talent Group
Published: August 2017

One of the aims of the Young Talent Group (YTG) is to make United European Gastroenterology (UEG) more attractive for young fellows interested in gastroenterology, and to involve them actively in UEG activities, by collaborating with young GI sections (YGIS) across Europe. Therefore, the YTG launched a survey to collect up‐to‐date information on YGISs belonging to UEG National Societies. The Friends of YTG were chosen as the target population and received a web‐based questionnaire concerning their personal information, the structure of YGIS in their respective country, the YGIS’ support mechanisms for young trainees, and ideas on how to improve them. Overall, 24 of 29 Friends answered the survey (83%). Among the Societies surveyed, only half have a young section. Typically, YGIS are supported, but not influenced, by National Societies through several initiatives. Results of the survey suggest that a lack of funding, of harmonised education, and of active roles available within National Societies, were the concerns most prevalent among young fellows. Our survey shows that the development of YGIS is being hindered by organisational, financial, and political issues. The YTG believes that a close collaboration between National Societies, UEG, and the YTG is necessary in order to offer young fellows the most productive and professionally satisfying future possible.
Burden of impaired sleep quality on work productivity in functional dyspepsia
Authors: Matsuzaki Juntaro , Suzuki Hidekazu , Togawa Koji , Yamane Tsuyoshi , Mori Hideki , Komori Takahiro , Masaoka Tatsuhiro , Kanai Takanori
Published: August 2017

Background

Impaired sleep quality is common, and can reduce work productivity in patients with functional dyspepsia (FD).

Objective

The objective of this article is to evaluate whether there is a direct association between the presence of FD and the severity of impaired sleep quality, and to calculate the economic loss due to the decreased work productivity associated with sleep quality.

Methods

In Study 1, using a web-based survey completed by workers with and without FD, we evaluated impaired sleep quality, work and daily productivity, and the severity of reflux and bowel symptoms. In Study 2, the association between the presence of FD and the severity of impaired sleep quality was validated in a hospital-based cohort.

Results

In both Study 1 and 2, although impaired sleep quality was more frequent in participants with FD than in those without FD, the independent association between the presence of FD and the severity of impaired sleep quality was not observed after adjustment for the severity of reflux and bowel symptoms. FD participants with impaired sleep quality reported additional economic loss of 53,500 Japanese yen/month.

Conclusion

Although the association between impaired sleep quality and FD was indirect, concomitant impaired sleep quality could worsen economic loss.