bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantification of occlusions influencing the tree stem curve retrieving from single-scan terrestrial laser scanning data
Authors: Wan Peng , Wang Tiejun , Zhang Wuming , Liang Xinlian , Skidmore Andrew K. , Yan Guangjian
Published: October 2019

Background

The stem curve of standing trees is an essential parameter for accurate estimation of stem volume. This study aims to directly quantify the occlusions within the single-scan terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) data, evaluate its correlation with the accuracy of the retrieved stem curves, and subsequently, to assess the capacity of single-scan TLS to estimate stem curves.

Methods

We proposed an index, occlusion rate, to quantify the occlusion level in TLS data. We then analyzed three influencing factors for the occlusion rate: the percentage of basal area near the scanning center, the scanning distance and the source of occlusions. Finally, we evaluated the effects of occlusions on stem curve estimates from single-scan TLS data.

Results

The results showed that the correlations between the occlusion rate and the stem curve estimation accuracies were strong (r = 0.60–0.83), so was the correlations between the occlusion rate and its influencing factors (r = 0.84–0.99). It also showed that the occlusions from tree stems were the main factor of the low detection rate of stems, while the non-stem components mainly influenced the completeness of the retrieved stem curves.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrates that the occlusions significantly affect the accuracy of stem curve retrieval from the single-scan TLS data in a typical-size (32 m × 32 m) forest plot. However, the single-scan mode has the capacity to accurately estimate the stem curve in a small forest plot (< 10 m × 10 m) or a plot with a lower occlusion rate, such as less than 35% in our tested datasets. The findings from this study are useful for guiding the practice of retrieving forest parameters using single-scan TLS data.
Prevalence of CYP17A1 gene mutations in 17α-hydroxylase deficiency in the Chinese Han population
Authors: Wang Menglin , Wang Hao , Zhao Haiying , Li Ling , Liu Min , Liu Fujia , Meng Fansen , Fan Caini
Published: October 2019

Background

17α-hydroxylase deficiency is a rare autosomal recessive disorder caused by mutations in the cytochrome P450 family 17 subfamily A member 1 gene. The major clinical presentation includes hypertension, hypokalemia, male pseudohermaphroditism and female gonadal dysplasia. Hundreds of pathogenic variants have been reported in this disorder, and some common mutations were found to be race-specific.

Case presentation

In this study, we reported 5 Chinese girls with 17α-hydroxylase deficiency from Henan Province. The patients all came to the hospital for hypertension, and they also presented with sexual infantilism. The average age of the patients was 14 years old, ranging from 12 to 17 years old. They all had reduced blood cortisol, estradiol (E2), and testosterone (TESTO) and increased adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and luteinizing hormone (LH). They all had the appearance of females; however, three of the chromosome karyotypes were 46XX, and two were 46XY.

Conclusions

All of the patients carried a mutation on the 329 amino acid of CYP17A1 exon 6. By summarizing the currently known pathogenic mutations of 17α-hydroxylase deficiency, we demonstrated the prevalence of these gene mutations in Chinese Han and non-Chinese populations.
First diagnosis of psychosis in the prison: results from a data-linkage study
Authors: Chowdhury Nabila Z. , Albalawi Olayan , Wand Handan , Adily Armita , Kariminia Azar , Allnutt Stephen , Sara Grant , Dean Kimberlie , Lappin Julia , O'Driscoll Colman , Grant Luke , Schofield Peter W. , Greenberg David , Butler Tony
Published: October 2019

Background

Psychosis is more prevalent among people in prison compared with the community. Early detection is important to optimise health and justice outcomes; for some, this may be the first time they have been clinically assessed.

Aims

Determine factors associated with a first diagnosis of psychosis in prison and describe time to diagnosis from entry into prison.

Method

This retrospective cohort study describes individuals identified for the first time with psychosis in New South Wales (NSW) prisons (2006–2012). Logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with a first diagnosis of psychosis. Cox regression was used to describe time to diagnosis from entry into prison.

Results

Of the 38 489 diagnosed with psychosis for the first time, 1.7% (n = 659) occurred in prison. Factors associated with an increased likelihood of being diagnosed in prison (versus community) were: male gender (odds ratio (OR) = 2.27, 95% CI 1.79–2.89), Aboriginality (OR = 1.81, 95% CI 1.49–2.19), older age (OR = 1.70, 95% CI 1.37–2.11 for 25–34 years and OR = 1.63, 95% CI 1.29–2.06 for 35–44 years) and disadvantaged socioeconomic area (OR = 4.41, 95% CI 3.42–5.69). Eight out of ten were diagnosed within 3 months of reception.

Conclusions

Among those diagnosed with psychosis for the first time, only a small number were identified during incarceration with most identified in the first 3 months following imprisonment. This suggests good screening processes are in place in NSW prisons for detecting those with serious mental illness. It is important these individuals receive appropriate care in prison, have the opportunity to have matters reheard and possibly diverted into treatment, and are subsequently connected to community mental health services on release.

Declaration of interest

None.
Follow-Up of Patients With Complete Remission of Locally Advanced Basal Cell Carcinoma After Vismodegib Discontinuation: A Multicenter French Study of 116 Patients
Authors: Herms Florian , Lambert Jerome , Grob Jean-Jacques , Haudebourg Luc , Bagot Martine , Dalac Sophie , Dutriaux Caroline , Guillot Bernard , Jeudy Geraldine , Mateus Christine , Monestier Sandrine , Mortier Laurent , Poulalhon Nicolas , Prey Sorilla , Robert Caroline , Vabres Pierre , Lebbe Celeste , Meyer Nicolas , Basset-Seguin Nicole
Published: October 2019

PURPOSE

Vismodegib is a hedgehog pathway inhibitor indicated for the treatment of locally advanced basal cell carcinoma (laBCC), with an objective response rate of 65%, including a 32% complete response (CR). However, adverse effects often lead to drug discontinuation. The objective of our study was to evaluate long-term responses, predictive factors, and management of relapse after vismodegib discontinuation.

METHODS

An observational retrospective study was conducted in nine French oncodermatology units. We included patients with laBCC with CR on vismodegib who discontinued treatment between March 2012 and January 2016; we reviewed charts up to June 2016. The primary objective was to evaluate median relapse-free survival (RFS). Secondary objectives were risk factors associated with RFS, relapse, and death and treatment modalities after relapse and their efficacy.

RESULTS

One hundred sixteen patients with laBCC were included. The median RFS was 18.4 months (95% CI, 13.5 to 24.8 months). The RFS rate at 36 months was 35.4% (95% CI, 22.5% to 47.9%) for the total population and 40.0% (95% CI, 25.7% to 53.7%) for patients without Gorlin syndrome. LaBCC to the limbs and trunk was the only variable independently associated with a higher risk of relapse (hazard ratio, 2.77; 95% CI, 1.23 to 6.22; P = .019). Twenty-seven patients (50%) who experienced relapse during follow-up were retreated with vismodegib, with an objective response in 23 (objective response rate, 85%; CR rate, 37%; partial response rate, 48%) and eligibility for surgery in 24 (42%).

CONCLUSION

Long-term response after vismodegib discontinuation is frequent. Most patients who experience a relapse still respond to vismodegib rechallenge.
High-fat Overfeeding Does Not Exacerbate Rapid Changes in Forearm Glucose and Fatty Acid Balance During Immobilization
Authors: Dirks Marlou L , Wall Benjamin T , Otten Britt , Cruz Ana M , Dunlop Mandy V , Barker Alan R , Stephens Francis B
Published: October 2019

Context

Physical inactivity and high-fat overfeeding have been shown to independently induce insulin resistance.

Objective

Establish the contribution of muscle disuse and lipid availability to the development of inactivity-induced insulin resistance.

Design, Setting, Participants, and Interventions

20 healthy males underwent 7 days of forearm cast immobilization combined with a fully controlled eucaloric diet (n = 10, age 23 ± 2 yr, body mass index [BMI] 23.8 ± 1.0 kg·m-2) or a high-fat diet (HFD) providing 50% excess energy from fat (high-fat diet, n = 10, age 23 ± 2 yr, BMI 22.4 ± 0.8 kg·m-2).

Main Outcome Measures

Prior to casting and following 2 and 7 days of immobilization, forearm glucose uptake (FGU) and nonesterified fatty acid (NEFA) balance were assessed using the arterialized venous–deep venous (AV-V) forearm balance method following ingestion of a mixed macronutrient drink.

Results

7 days of HFD increased body weight by 0.9 ± 0.2 kg (P = 0.002), but did not alter fasting, arterialized whole-blood glucose and serum insulin concentrations or the associated homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance or Matsuda indices. Two and 7 days of forearm immobilization led to a 40 ± 7% and 52 ± 7% decrease in FGU, respectively (P < 0.001), with no difference between day 2 and 7 and no effect of HFD. Forearm NEFA balance tended to increase following 2 and 7 days of immobilization (P = 0.095).

Conclusions

Forearm immobilization leads to a rapid and substantial decrease in FGU, which is accompanied by an increase in forearm NEFA balance but is not exacerbated by excess dietary fat intake. Altogether, our data suggest that disuse-induced insulin resistance of glucose metabolism occurs as a physiological adaptation in response to the removal of muscle contraction.
Syndrome of Inappropriate Antidiuretic Hormone Release During Ketamine Infusion in Complex Regional Syndrome Patient Receiving Intrathecal Baclofen: A Case Report
Authors: Shenoda Botros B. , Krevolin Larry E. , Sherman Michael
Published: October 2019

Complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) is a severely disabling condition that typically develops after an inciting traumatic event. Ketamine infusion in subanesthetic dose provides sustained analgesia in selected cases of CRPS. In general, ketamine treatment does not significantly affect electrolyte or water balance. Here, we report a case of a CRPS patient on intrathecal baclofen pump developing syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone release (SIADH) during ketamine infusion. Prophylactic treatment with intravenous loop diuretics was successful in preventing the development of SIADH during ketamine infusion during subsequent infusions in this case.
Born the Year after the Flood
Authors: Caribou Jeremie
Published: October 2019

This essay reveals the true history of my people. It demonstrates our highly developed social, spiritual, and political governance structures. Our use of the water systems underscores the ecological integrity of sustainable development that we fostered for thousands of years. Yet, due to colonization and oppressive policies designed to destroy Indigenous identity, culture, and history, Indigenous knowledge and governing systems have been put in jeopardy. Colonial policies intended to dispossess and oppress First Nations by depriving us from Indigenous lands, controlling all aspects of our lives, which created dependence by limiting Indigenous peoples’ abilities to provide for themselves. Furthermore, these policies had no Indigenous input or representation and were designed to eradicate or eliminate Indigenous rights, titles, and the right to self-determination to easily gain access to Indigenous lands for development and industrialization, such as in the case of the massive hydroelectrical dams that continue to alienate my home community today.
Environmental entrainment demonstrates natural circadian rhythmicity in the cnidarian Nematostella vectensis
Authors: Tarrant Ann M. , Helm Rebecca R. , Levy Oren , Rivera Hanny E.
Published: October 2019

Considerable advances in chronobiology have been made through controlled laboratory studies, but distinct temporal rhythms can emerge under natural environmental conditions. Lab-reared Nematostella vectensis sea anemones exhibit circadian behavioral and physiological rhythms. Given that these anemones inhabit shallow estuarine environments subject to tidal inputs, it was unclear whether circadian rhythmicity would persist following entrainment in natural conditions, or whether circatidal periodicity would predominate. Nematostella were conditioned within a marsh environment, where they experienced strong daily temperature cycles as well as brief tidal flooding around the full and new moons. Upon retrieval, anemones exhibited strong circadian (∼24 hour) activity rhythms under a light-dark cycle or continuous darkness, but reduced circadian rhythmicity under continuous light. However, some individuals in each light condition showed circadian rhythmicity, and a few individuals showed circatidal rhythmicity. Consistent with the behavioral studies, a large number of transcripts (1640) exhibited diurnal rhythmicity compared with very few (64) with semidiurnal rhythmicity. Diurnal transcripts included core circadian regulators, and 101 of 434 (23%) genes that were previously found to be up-regulated by exposure to ultraviolet radiation. Together the behavioral and transcriptional studies show that circadian rhythmicity predominates and suggest that solar radiation drives physiological cycles in this sediment-dwelling subtidal animal.
Effects of evidence-based clinical practice guidelines in cardiovascular health care quality improvements: A systematic review
Authors: Ramírez-Morera Anggie , Tristan Mario , Vazquez Juan Carlos
Published: October 2019

Background: The development of evidence-based clinical practice guidelines (EB-CPGs) has increasing global growth; however, the certainty of impact on patients and health systems, as well as the magnitude of the impact, is not apparent. The objective of this systematic review was to assess the effectiveness of the application of EB-CPGs for the improvement of the quality of health care in three dimensions: structure, process and results in the patient for the management of cardiovascular disease.

Methods: We followed the methods described by the Cochrane Handbook and present a descriptive analysis because of the high heterogeneity found across the included studies. We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE and EMBASE databases, as well as the grey literature, between 1990 and June 2016. No language restrictions were applied. Only randomised clinical trials (RCTs) were selected. Three authors independently carried out the data extraction, using a modified version of the Cochrane Effective Practice and Organization of Care form.

Results: Of the total of 84 interventions included in the nine RCTs evaluated, three (4%) were related to health care structure, 54 (64%) to the health care delivery process and 27 (32%) to patient outcomes. Regarding the impact of using the EB-CPGs, in 55 interventions (65%), there were no significant differences between control and experimental groups. In four interventions (5%), the result favoured the control group, and the result favoured the intervention group on 25 of the interventions (30%).

Conclusions: This systematic review showed that EB-CPGs could be useful to improve the process and structure of health care and, to a lesser extent, to improve the patients’ outcomes. After analysing many studies, we could have one more hypothesis for further research, which could shed more light upon those undiscovered variables that might interfere with the use of the EB-CPGs.

Registration: PROSPERO CRD42013003589
ActEarly: a City Collaboratory approach to early promotion of good health and wellbeing
Authors: Wright John , Hayward Andrew C. , West Jane , Pickett Kate E. , McEachan Rosie M. , Mon-Williams Mark , Christie Nicola , Vaughan Laura , Sheringham Jess , Haklay Muki , Sheard Laura , Dickerson Josie , Barber Sally , Small Neil , Cookson Richard , Garnett Philip , Bywater Tracey , Pleace Nicholas , Brunner Eric J. , Cameron Claire , Ucci Marcella , Cummins Steve , Fancourt Daisy , Kandt Jens , Longley Paul , Morris Steve , Ploubidis George , Savage Robert , Aldridge Robert W. , Hopewell Dan , Yang Tiffany , Mason Dan , Santorelli Gillian , Romano Richard , Bryant Maria , Crosby Liam , Sheldon Trevor
Published: October 2019

Economic, physical, built, cultural, learning, social and service environments have a profound effect on lifelong health. However, policy thinking about health research is dominated by the ‘biomedical model’ which promotes medicalisation and an emphasis on diagnosis and treatment at the expense of prevention. Prevention research has tended to focus on ‘downstream’ interventions that rely on individual behaviour change, frequently increasing inequalities. Preventive strategies often focus on isolated leverage points and are scattered across different settings. This paper describes a major new prevention research programme that aims to create City Collaboratory testbeds to support the identification, implementation and evaluation of upstream interventions within a whole system city setting. Prevention of physical and mental ill-health will come from the cumulative effect of multiple system-wide interventions. Rather than scatter these interventions across many settings and evaluate single outcomes, we will test their collective impact across multiple outcomes with the goal of achieving a tipping point for better health. Our focus is on early life (ActEarly) in recognition of childhood and adolescence being such critical periods for influencing lifelong health and wellbeing.
A second new Amphipod species from the Peynirlikönü Cave (EGMA Cave): Gammarus egmao sp. nov. (Crustacea: Amphipoda)
Authors: Özbek Murat , Güloğlu M. Oktar
Published: October 2019

Another new amphipod species, Gammarus egmao sp. nov., from Peynirlikönü Cave [Evren Günay Mehmet Ali Özel (EGMA) Cave] was identified. The specimens of the new species were sampled from 350 m inside of the cave entrance. This is the second species identified from the cave in addition to Gammarus ustaoglui Özbek and Güloğlu, 2005. The newly identified species has the following characteristic features: a) small eyes, b) 2- segmented accessory flagellum of antenna II, c) aesthetascs on the flagellar segments of antenna I, d) reduced armaments in distal part of palp of maxilla I e) short inner ramus of uropod III and reduced setation on margins of rami of uropod III. A detailed description of holotype female and illustrations of the appendages were presented. Additionally, differences from the related species were discussed.
Technical efficiency and artisanal fishing households: Any hope in oil extracting locations? Evidence from Nigeria
Authors: Gbigbi Theophilus Miebi
Published: October 2019

Artisanal fishing household’s production is investigated using stochastic frontier analysis through Cobb-Douglas production function, which incorporates an inefficiency effects model. Descriptive statistics and profitability index were also used to analyzed the data collected. One hundred and twenty eight households were randomly picked through multistage techniques in the Niger Delta Region of Nigeria. Primary data were chosen using structured questionnaire and interview schedule. Results indicates that greater part of respondents were males with an average age of 42 years who were married with household size of 6 persons. Very many of them did not belong to cooperative society with high educational level. The result indicates that labour, baits and capital inputs were significantly related to output. The average technical efficiency was 73%. This means that the households can still improve their efficiency level by 27%. The structure of production suggests that the returns to scale was 0.9584. The estimated gamma parameter was 0.9423 and was significant at 5% level. Access to credit, membership of cooperative society and fishing experience had an inverse relationship with technical inefficiency while age, fishing distance, gender, number of trips and oil spill had a direct relationship with inefficiency. Artisanal fishing was found to be profitable with a net farm income of N135261.21 and a benefit cost ratio (BCR) of N1.20k. The major constraint to artisanal fishing was pollution. Therefore, the study calls for policies that increases the security of oil pipelines in order to stem the tide of oil spillage and invariably water pollution.
Analysis of the second generation buy-back program for fishing vessels in Turkey
Authors: Ekmekci Betül , Ünal Vahdet
Published: October 2019

Many implementations are put into practice on the national and international scale for the purpose of enabling the sustainable use of living marine resources. The Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Livestock published a notification in 2012 and the buy-back program for fishing vessels was initiated to keep the balance between the fish stocks and fishing capacity, prevent overfishing and enable sustainable fishing. While 12 m and larger vessels were considered in the first program, length of the vessels was reduced 10 m in the second. The aim of this study is to reveal the results of the related program. A telephone interview was applied to the owners of 207 fishing vessels determined through the stratified sampling method among 446 fishing vessels in 2014. In the 2nd program, 446 fishing vessels were withdrawn from the fleet by paying 51 million TL in total. Mostly the buy-back of the fishing vessels with the length of 10-20 meters (440 vessels) was carried out, and the fishing vessels with the length of 21-30 meters (6 vessels) were bought back at the least. Most of the vessels (44%) were from the Marmara and the least was from the Mediterranean Regions (19%). Only 9% of the vessels bough-back was trawl or purse seine vessels. It was found that 28% of vessel owners have a second vessel and gave the inactive or unprofitable vessels they had to the buy-back program. Furthermore, 62% of the individuals who gave their vessels stated that they will continue working in the fishing industry, and 27% of respondents stated that they will buy a new fishing vessel. As a result; buy-back program is one of the most important management implication of fisheries management authority in recent years. However, it should be considered by the managers that the large vessel owners have not shown interest in the program. One of every four fishermen giving his vessel is also a second vessel owner, and he gives his inactive vessel to the program, and the fishers have a similar tendency to buy a second vessel with the money they receive from the program. However, it is the basic approach that should be taken into account by the fisheries management authority to take advantage of relevant global experiences to ensure the highest possible benefit from the buy-back programs. This approach should at least be followed in future buy-back programs.
Assessment of vitamin compositions and cholesterol levels of carp (Cyprinus carpio carpio) and rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) caviars
Authors: İnanlı Ayşe Gürel , Çoban Özlem Emir , Yılmaz Ökkeş , Özpolat Emine , Kuzgun Nermin Karaton
Published: October 2019

In this study, roes obtained from carp (Cyprinus carpio carpio) that were caught from Keban Dam Lake (Elazığ) and the cultured rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) were processed as caviar and compositions of proximate and vitamins, cholesterol levels were determined in the products.

In the research, roes obtained from mature fish were processed under aseptic conditions by suitable procedures for different fish species. The obtained caviars were weighed as 75 grams and filled in 200 ml capped glass jar and stored in +4 ºC for 28 days. As a result of the analysis in the study, the amount of dry matter was determined to be 35.94% in roes obtained from rainbow trout and 31.28% in roes obtained from carp. The average protein content in raw roe obtained from rainbow trout was determined to be 24.32%, it was determined to be 18.25 % in carp. In this study, the fat content in roes obtained from rainbow trout was determined to be 9.14%, but it did not show much change during processing and it was determined to be 8.84% in the end product.

During the production and storage of the caviar produced from rainbow trout and carp, the fat-soluble vitamin composition and cholesterol levels were determined. During the study, it was found that the amounts of vitamin A between rainbow trout and carp caviars were significantly different (p <0.001). Vitamins D and K were not detected in the caviar samples. As a result of analyzes, cholesterol levels were determined 73.76 mg/100 g in rainbow trout roe and 10.82 mg/100 g in carp roe and it was observed that these values were not changed significantly during the processing and storage periods (on 0th, 7th, 14th, 21st and 28th days ).
An unusual presentation of oro-naso-palatal fistula
Authors: Hamid Ammar , Patel Priyanka
Published: October 2019

This case report is of a 29-year-old male who complained of nasal escape of food and fluids through his nose for 6 months. Further questioning revealed a previous cocaine habit which has now ceased. Examination revealed a septal perforation and CT scanning revealed a 16 mm wide sagittal bone defect involving most of the hard palate as well as absence of the inferior half of the nasal septum. A diagnosis of septal perforation leading to an oro-naso-palatal fistula was made. This rather unusual presentation and clinical findings are discussed within this article.

CPD/Clinical Relevance: The effects of cocaine misuse on the oral mucosa are presented.
Safe prescribing in general dental practice – challenges and solutions
Authors: Mason Julie , Vallance Hannah , Pontefract Sarah , Coleman Jamie J
Published: October 2019

All dental practitioners will treat patients who take medicines. An ageing population, combined with improved management of patients with multiple long-term co-morbidities, has seen a rise in complex medication regimens. Healthcare specialization, a widening drug market and better access to medicines has also contributed to more patients taking multiple medicines for conditions, often managed by a variety of specialists. Whether these medicines are prescribed or bought over-the-counter, dental practitioners must understand the implications that these treatment regimens can have on dental care.

CPD/Clinical Relevance: Prescribing medicines is a small but essential part of dental practice. This paper describes various aspects of prescribing, the potential implications of dental treatment to a patient's medication regimen, and important considerations to reduce the risk of medication errors and improve patient safety.
Численность и структура популяции пелагической амфиподы Macrohectopus branickii в прибрежной зоне озера Байкал
Authors: Karnaukhov D. , Biritskaya S. , Teplykh M. , Silenko N. , Dolinskaya E. , Silow E.
Published: October 2019

Macrohectopus branickii является уникальным обитателем пелагиали оз. Байкал, схожим по экологической нише с антарктическим крилем и мизидами. Несмотря на это многие аспекты экологии данного вида являются неизвестными, либо спорными. В рамках данной работы предполагалось уточнить особенности распространения данного вида в прибрежной зоне. Поскольку особи M. branickii являются активными мигрантами и участвуют в суточных вертикальных миграциях к поверхности, нами были использованы конусные сети, рассчитанные на то, что M. branickii будет попадать в них при совершении пассивного опускания от поверхности льда в толщу воды. Полученные данные показали присутствие особей M. branickii над глубиной в 47 м, а также то, что мигрирующие стаи представителей данного вида могут долгое время не заходить на определенные участки. Также в работе были рассмотрены вопросы явления вмерзания M. branickii в ледовый покров и его значение в экологии данного вида.
Detection of Liver Steatosis With a Novel Ultrasound-Based Technique: A Pilot Study Using MRI-Derived Proton Density Fat Fraction as the Gold Standard
Authors: Ferraioli Giovanna , Maiocchi Laura , Raciti Maria Vittoria , Tinelli Carmine , De Silvestri Annalisa , Nichetti Mara , De Cata Pasquale , Rondanelli Mariangela , Chiovato Luca , Calliada Fabrizio , Filice Carlo ,   on behalf of the Liver Steatosis Study Group
Published: October 2019

OBJECTIVES:

The primary aim of this study was to investigate the value of attenuation imaging (ATI), a novel ultrasound technique for detection of steatosis, by comparing the results to that obtained with controlled attenuation parameter (CAP) and by using MRI-derived proton density fat fraction (PDFF) as reference standard.

METHODS:

From March to November 2018, 114 consecutive adult subjects potentially at risk of steatosis and 15 healthy controls were enrolled. Each subject underwent ATI and CAP assessment on the same day. MRI-PDFF was performed within a week.

RESULTS:

The prevalence of steatosis, as defined by MRI-PDFF ≥ 5%, was 70.7%. There was a high correlation of ATI with MRI-PDFF (r = 0.81, P < 0.0001). The correlation of CAP with MRI-PDFF and with ATI, respectively, was moderate (r = 0.65, P < 0.0001 and r = 0.61, P < 0.0001). The correlation of ATI or CAP with PDFF was not affected by age, gender, or body mass index. Area under the receiver operating characteristics of ATI and CAP, respectively, were 0.91 (0.84–0.95; P < 0.0001) and 0.85 (0.77–0.91; P < 0.0001) for detecting S > 0 steatosis (MRI-PDFF ≥ 5%); 0.95 (0.89–0.98; P < 0.0001) and 0.88 (0.81–0.93; P < 0.0001) for detecting S > 1 steatosis (MRI-PDFF ≥ 16.3%). The cutoffs of ATI and CAP, respectively, were 0.63 dB/cm/MHz and 258 dB/m for detecting S > 0 liver steatosis; 0.72 dB/cm/MHz and 304 dB/m for detecting S > 1 steatosis. ATI performed better than CAP, and this improvement was statistically significant for S > 1 (P = 0.04).

DISCUSSION:

This study shows that, in patients with no fibrosis/mild fibrosis, ATI is a very promising tool for the noninvasive assessment of steatosis.
Whole Exome Sequencing Among 26 Patients With Indeterminate Acute Liver Failure: A Pilot Study
Authors: Rakela Jorge , Rule Jody , Ganger Daniel , Lau Julie , Cunningham Julie , Dehankar Mrunal , Baheti Saurabh , Lee William M. ,   the Acute Liver Failure Study Group
Published: October 2019

INTRODUCTION:

The etiology of acute liver failure (ALF) remains an important prognostic factor. The Acute Liver Failure Study Group recently reported that 150 of 2,718 adult patients with ALF (5.5%) had an indeterminate etiology. Our aim was to use whole exome sequencing to identify genetic variants associated with phenotypic, biochemical, and histologic features among patients with indeterminate ALF.

METHODS:

This effort has defined a cohort of well-pedigreed patients with indeterminate ALF; DNA samples extracted from whole blood samples were obtained from 26 respective patients with indeterminate ALF. These samples were kept at the Acute Liver Failure Study Group repository at the NIDDK, Bethesda. Whole exome sequencing and bioinformatics analysis were performed at the Mayo Clinic Center of Individualized Medicine in Rochester, MN.

RESULTS:

Of the 26 patients, 8 survived spontaneously, 6 died, and 12 underwent a liver transplantation; all those transplanted were alive at 21 days after enrollment in the study. Twenty-two of the 26 patients presented as ALF. We found 12 variants associated with 11 genes. The most common variant was rs4940595 in the SERPINB11 gene which was found in 23 of the 26 patients. This variant had a stop codon; no reports of disorders have been associated with this variant. The next most commonly found variant was rs1135840 in the CYP2D6 gene; this mutation is a missense_variant and has been reported to be associated with hepatotoxicity of antituberculous therapy. None of our patients were receiving this therapy. We also found a significant asymmetric distribution of rs1800754 of the CYP2D7 gene and rs1135840 of the CYP2D6 gene between patients who survived spontaneously (75%) and those who died or underwent liver transplantation (30.5% and 25%, respectively).

DISCUSSION:

We found 12 variants of 11 genes significantly associated with ALF among adults with indeterminate etiology. We also found a significant asymmetric distribution of 2 variants belonging to the CYP2D7 and CYP2D6 genes, respectively, between those who survived spontaneously and those who died or underwent liver transplantation. The 2 most common variants, rs4940595 and rs1135840, of the SERPINB11 and CYP2D6 genes, respectively, found in our patients with ALF have been described as potentially important in the adaptive response combating the emergence of infectious diseases and associated with hepatotoxicity of antituberculous therapy, respectively. Our findings need to be expanded to include more patients with indeterminate ALF as well as viral, drug toxicity, and autoimmune etiologies to determine whether our findings are associated with the specific etiology, indeterminate, or with the overall ALF syndrome itself.
Education governance and privatization in Portugal: Media coverage on public and private education
Authors: Antunes Fátima , Viseu Sofia
Published: October 2019

This paper aims to discuss recent changes in Portugal’s education policy. Portugal offers an interesting scenario to study the different ways the economic crisis has brought new opportunities to strengthen the privatization agenda. We specifically focus on media coverage and the contractualization of education services with private schools through ‘association contracts’. In the 1980s the Portuguese State through these contracts financed private schools to operate in areas where the public offering was insufficient, thereby ensuring the public access to education and preventing marginalization. Nowadays, however, these contracts are seen as an ideological banner both for and against education privatization. We present an empirical study based on documental analysis of 180 news articles published in the Portuguese media on the changes in the contractualization of education services. The results show two main audiences sustaining distinct societal projects, comprised of a variety of actors, who are either for or against ‘association contracts’. The actors justify their positions based on their understanding of the State’s role in providing education, the policies involving the right to education and decreasing inequalities.
Private encroachment through crisis-making: The privatization of education for refugees
Authors: Le Hang Minh
Published: October 2019

How has education for refugees been shaped by broader dynamics of educational privatization? This paper argues that the invoking of the ‘refugee crisis’ narrative has been a crucial force in facilitating the privatization of this sector. The urgency of crisis helps to naturalize private actors’ participation in refugees’ education as equal partners to host governments, multilateral agencies, and civil society. Consistent with Stephen Ball’s (2012) distinction between privatization in and of education, the privatization of refugee education also advances through two dimensions: the creation of a new space – a new ‘market’ – for private actors, and the infusion of market and business principles such as ‘innovation’ into all aspects of education. The crisis narrative has created a new ‘horizon of taken-for-granted’ (Hall, 1993), where it is simply natural that private actors must participate in the assumption of the traditional responsibilities of the state in providing education for refugees.
Globalization, privatization, marginalization: Mapping and assessing connections and consequences in/through education
Authors: Edwards Jr. D. Brent , Means Alexander
Published: October 2019

This special issue brings together scholars who are working on new aspects of the intersection and implications of globalization, privatization, and marginalization. While globalization’s relationship to education has been of great interest to scholars (e.g., Dale, 1999; Green, 1997; Rizvi & Lingard, 2009; Steiner-Khamsi, 2004; Verger, Novelli, & Kosar-Altinyelken, 2018). While the relationship between globalization and various forms of privatization has received significant attention (e.g., Adamson, Astrand, & Darling-Hammond, 2016; Ball, 2009, 2012; Carnoy, 1999; Mohamed & Morris, 2019; Robertson, Mundy, Verger, & Menashy, 2012; Verger, Lubienski, & Steiner-Khamsi, 2016), we seek to extend scholarship in these areas by examining the current connections and continuing consequences of both globalization and privatization for marginalization in/through education, as well as the ways in which the latter (marginalization) creates opportunities for the former (globalization and privatization). Exploring the relationships among globalization, privatization, and marginalization is vitally important for scholars not only because they are related in multiple yet, we argue, insufficiently understood ways, but also because their relations have real consequences for education policy and practice and for the exacerbation of marginalization itself in and through education. As the introductory essay for the special issue, this article (a) presents a framework for understanding the connections among globalization, privatization, and marginalization in relation to education; (b) distills, visually presents, and expands upon the dialectical connections evident “in” and “through” the cases that make up the special issue; and (c) emphasizes a number of lessons for the globalization-privatization-marginalization nexus.
Advanced oxidation of formaldehyde in the aqueous solutions using UVC/S2 O8 2- process: Degradation and mineralization
Authors: Tymoyrimoghadam Leili , Momeninejad Hossein , Baratpour Parisa , Gohari Fariba , Ravansalar Behnam , Momeninejad Mohsen , Adibzadeh Amir
Published: October 2019

Background: As a human carcinogen, formaldehyde is a toxic chemical imposing adverse effects on public health and environment. Due to its high reactivity, colorless nature, sustainability, purity in commercial forms, and low prices, the production and consumption of this compound has expanded vastly in industries. Methods: In this study, a UVC photoreactor with a total volume of 120 mL was used and operated in a rotary mode. To determine the residual concentration, high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) device was applied whose detector was set at a wavelength of 355 nm and equipped with C18 column (with dimensions of 25 × 4.6 mm i.d, and particle size of 5 µm). Total organic carbon (TOC) was determined using a TOC analyzer. Results: The optimal condition in this study was obtained at pH=3 and formaldehyde concentration of 350 mg, so that the removal of formaldehyde and TOC was 98.2% and 95.1%, respectively, after 35 minutes reaction time. The formaldehyde removal efficiency was assessed in the presence of methanol (MeOH), tert-butyl alcohol (TBA), and salicylic acid (SA) scavengers, and it was indicated that SO4 •- radicals were the most effective factors in formaldehyde destruction. By increasing the concentrations of MeOH, TBA, and SA to 2.5 g/L, the degradation efficiency of formaldehyde dropped from 98.02% to 69.78%, 64.68%, and 45.14%, respectively, at 35 minutes reaction time. The removal of formaldehyde in the presence of nitrate was significantly reduced and it had a significant effect on the removal of formaldehyde. Conclusion: In this study, the removal of formaldehyde was investigated in the presence of various anions including bicarbonate, carbonate, chloride, sulfate, and nitrate. According to the results, the UVC/S2 O8 2- process is a convenient and cost-effective method for the removal of formaldehyde.
An investigation of agricultural use potential of dewatered sewage sludge
Authors: Aghili Seyed Mostafa , Mehrdadi Nasser , Aminzadeh Behnoush , Zazouli Mohammad Ali
Published: October 2019

Background: One of the useful applications of Dewatered sludge (DWS) of municipal wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) is its use as manure in agriculture; therefore, its quality characteristics should be specified. The aim of this research was to determine biological and physicochemical characteristics of DWS of Sari WWTP and compare them with standards, and also to investigate its potential use in agriculture. Methods: Sludge samples were taken from the sewage sludge of Sari WWTP. Sampling and analysis of samples parameters including fecal coliform, salmonella, helminth ova, carbon, nitrogen, C/N, phosphorus, organic matter, potassium, moisture, electrical conductivity, and PH, were performed during four seasons with three replications based on the standard method. Results: The fecal coliform, salmonella, and helminth ova of the DWS were 2.37×106 ± 1.06×106 MPN/1 g d.s weight, 47±12.92 MPN/4 g d.s weight, and 466±61.85 number/4 g d.s weight, respectively, therefore, the DWS of Sari WWTP was categorized in the class B of the EPA standard. The amounts of C/N, organic matter, carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, moisture, electrical conductivity, and PH were obtained to be 12.7±1.15, 42.4±3.27%, 24.6±1.89%, 1.94±0.13%, 2.35±0.6%, 0.57±0.13%, 82±3.12%, 1.34±0.21 ds/m, and 7.41± 0.45, respectively. Conclusion: The DWS of Sari WWTP has a good fertility value but it cannot be safely used in agriculture and should be improved for class A by the Processes to Further Reduce Pathogens (PFRP), especially by composting.
A new treatment design for water contaminated with phenol
Authors: Abdul Rahman-Al Ezzi Ali , Alhamdiny Salam H.
Published: October 2019

Background: Several important designs have been applied to remove toxic and hazardous organic substances like phenol and phenol compounds from wastewater, but there is a need to seek an alternative design to effectively remove organic pollutants from water to less hazardous compounds and a costeffective system. Methods: A modified internal loop airlift reactor was designed to remove the organic pollutants in synthetic wastewater using an efficient and cost-effective treatment technique by means of a synergistic effect of combination oxidation, stripping, and adsorption. The influence of the current style was experimentally examined in the treatment of synthetic phenol contaminated wastewater. The practical device was tested under different airflow rates range (2-15 L/min) through gross difference retention period (5-60 minutes) at a various molar ratio of phenol to hydrogen peroxide ranging from 1:10 to 1:20. Results: It was revealed that the preferred molar ratio of phenol to hydrogen peroxide equals to 1:20. Moreover, the airflow rate is 15 L/min with longer retention period of 60 minutes, indicating the maximum removal efficiency (89%) of phenol from the synthetic wastewater. Conclusion: Successful removal of phenol from water by the removal efficiency of 89% boosts the success of the executed design as well as the scenario of conducting the synergistic processes (stripping, oxidation and adsorption) in one device and also increases the chances of solving environmental problems via treating wastewater before recycling and releasing it into natural water sources.
Assessment of heavy metals concentrations in the soil of Mongla industrial area, Bangladesh
Authors: Rayhan Khan Md. Abu , Ara Mosummath Hosna , Dhar Palash Kumar
Published: October 2019

Background: Contamination of soil with heavy metals is an alarming issue around the world. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the contamination status of heavy metals in the soil of Mongla industrial area, Bangladesh. Methods: Soil samples were randomly collected from 20 sites and digested by wet digestion method. The concentrations of heavy metals (Mn, Fe, Cu, Zn, Cd, and Pb) were determined using atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AAS). The quality of soil was assessed based on the contamination factor (CF), geoaccumulation index (Igeo), enrichment factor (EF), and ecological risk index factor (ERIF) analyses. Results: The average concentrations of Mn, Fe, Cu, Zn, Cd, and Pb were obtained to be 258.08±51.61, 3736.90±322.17, 19.55±6.49, 66.76 ± 18.32, 0.59±0.13, and 10.40 ± 1.49 mg kg-1, respectively, which were below the permissible limit. The highest value of CF (0.74±0.16), Igeo (0.35±0.34), EF (24.86±6.27), and PERIF (22.11±4.81) was observed for Cd. The pollution of CF, Igeo, EF, and ERIF was classified as very severely polluted, unpolluted to moderately polluted, strongly to extremely polluted, and slightly polluted, respectively, with these heavy metals due to anthropogenic activities. One-way ANOVA indicated a significant difference between Zn and Cd concentrations (P<0.05), whereas Pearson correlation showed a positive correlation between Zn-Pb (P=0.01) and Fe-Zn (P=0.05). Conclusion: There are different classes of contamination with heavy metals in the study area. Therefore, necessary steps should be taken and people’s awareness of the soil pollution should be raised.
Determination of parabens in wastewater and sludge in a municipal wastewater treatment plant using microwaveassisted dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction coupled with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry
Authors: Amin Mohammad Mehdi , Hashemi Majid , Ebrahimpour Karim , Chavoshani Afsane
Published: October 2019

Background: Due to the complexities involved in the extraction of micropollutants, the information regarding micropollutants like paraben in wastewater and sludge is scarce. The aim of this study was to adopt a microwave-assisted dispersive liquid-liquid micro-extraction (MADLLME) method for the extraction of parabens in municipal wastewater treatment plant (WWTP). Methods: A mixed stock solution of methyl-, ethyl-, propyl-, and butyl-parabens with concentration of 10 mg/mL were prepared in methanol. To validate this method, the limit of detection (LOD), limit of quantification (LOQ), linearity, and m/z were measured. To adopt this method in different condition, the effect of pH (3, 7, 9, and 12), microwave power (180, 300, 450, and 600 W), solvent type (methanol, acetone, methanol/water, acetone/water), and 1 g folorisil were assessed. After adopting MADLLME method, the paraben fate of this WWTP was evaluated through mass loading and emission. Results: The optimum performance of MADLLME method was observed at pH = 7, microwave power = 450 W, reaction time = 30 s, and methanol as the solvent. The total concentrations of four paraben metabolites in the WWTP ranged between 2505 ng/L in influent, 1953 ng/L in effluent, and 8.03 ng/g at wet weight sludge samples. The total mass loading and emission of four parabens in this WWTP was 0.672 mg/d/1000 people and 0.186 mg/d/1000 people, respectively. Conclusion: MADLLME method seems to be an excellent alternative, as a green extraction technique, for determining various groups of emerging micropollutants in different matrices.