bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dietary interventions for fetal growth restriction – therapeutic potential of dietary nitrate supplementation in pregnancy
Authors: Cottrell Elizabeth , Tropea Teresa , Ormesher Laura , Greenwood Susan , Wareing Mark , Johnstone Edward , Myers Jenny , Sibley Colin
Published: January 2017

Fetal growth restriction (FGR) affects around 5% of pregnancies and is associated with significant short‐ and long‐term adverse outcomes. A number of factors can increase the risk of FGR, one of which is poor maternal diet. In terms of pathology, both clinically and in many experimental models of FGR, impaired uteroplacental vascular function is implicated, leading to a reduction in the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the developing fetus. Whilst mechanisms underpinning impaired uteroplacental vascular function are not fully understood, interventions aimed at enhancing nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability remain a key area of interest in obstetric research. In addition to endogenous NO production from the amino acid l‐arginine, via nitric oxide synthase (NOS) enzymes, research in recent years has established that significant NO can be derived from dietary nitrate, via the ‘alternative NO pathway’. Dietary nitrate, abundant in green leafy vegetables and beetroot, can increase NO bioactivity, conferring beneficial effects on cardiovascular function and blood flow. Given the beneficial effects of dietary nitrate supplementation to date in non‐pregnant humans and animals, current investigations aim to assess the therapeutic potential of this approach in pregnancy to enhance NO bioactivity, improve uteroplacental vascular function and increase fetal growth.

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Dinámicas y prácticas de cuidado en la pobreza, la vejez y la discapacidad: La familia Vargas
Authors: Alzate Martha Lucia
Published: January 2017

Introducción: Conocer la heterogeneidad y diversidad cultural de un grupo de población que envejece de forma acelerada en el mundo, es un desafío para el profesional de salud que busca ofrecer un cuidado congruente con los valores, creencias, prácticas y necesidades sentidas. Objetivo: Describir las dinámicas y las prácticas de cuidado en salud de  una familia en condición de pobreza que vive con una persona anciana en situación de discapacidad en la ciudad de Bogotá – Colombia. Metodología: Estudio cualitativo basado en la historia oral de vida, tejida con la participación de tres integrantes de la familia Vargas. Las entrevistas suman 894 minutos de grabación. La recolección, procesamiento y análisis de datos se efectuó siguiendo el procedimiento propuesto por el oralista Brasilero Meihy. Resultados: Dos grandes temas emergieron: La familia Vargas: entre lo glocal y lo líquido, y Los Vargas: entre la sobrevivencia y la lucha por la dignidad. Conclusiones: El cuidado ocurre como una expresión de solidaridad familiar en una dinámica, ambivalente y tensa con cargas económicas, emocionales y de deterioro en la calidad de vida para las personas que lo asumen. La familia soporta  en la esfera privada la dura carga de cuidar, acumulando muchas más desventajas sociales quedando en el círculo de humillación e indignidad.
El cuidado de enfermería en pacientes con riesgo cardiovascular sustentado en la teoría de Nola J Pender
Authors: Cadena Estrada Julio César
Published: January 2017

Las enfermedades crónico-degenerativas como la enfermedad coronaria tienen su origen en diversos factores de riesgo y hábitos y estilos de vida no saludables, por lo que la prevención y promoción a la salud juegan un papel fundamental en la solución de los problemas de salud pública. El objetivo este trabajo es hacer una reflexión del cuidado que proporciona enfermería a los pacientes con riesgo cardiovascular basados en el modelo teórico de Nola J Pender.

A través del MPS (Modelo de Promoción de la Salud), el cuidado que proporciona enfermería promueve que las personan modifiquen de forma activa su conducta de riesgo y promocione aquellas que benefician su salud, para lo cual las enfermeras deben realizar sus intervenciones considerando los supuestos relacionados con factores cognitivos-perceptúales, autoeficacia, autoeficacia percibida, barreras de acción percibida, ya que de acuerdo a la evidencia a demostrado ser un  instrumento con precisión empírica. En conclusión, el MPS identificar conductas, hábitos y estilos de vida y explica las relaciones entre los factores que se cree influyen en las modificaciones de la conducta de salud, el uso de las habilidades y conocimientos de las personas, la adopción del estilo de vida saludable, el cambio de comportamiento, el ocio y la actividad física.
Strongyloides hyperinfection syndrome and VRE pneumonia
Authors: Abu Omar Mohannad , Abu Ghanimeh Mouhanna , Kim Sola , Howell Gregory
Published: January 2017

Immunocompromised patients have high risk of infections from bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites. One of these infections is those caused byStrongyloides stercoralis. Immunocompromised patients are at risk of hyperinfection syndrome which is characterised with more systemic manifestation and a higher risk of morbidity and mortality. This can be complicated by coinfection with enteric organisms, specifically Gram-negative. Enterococci are Gram-positive cocci which are inhabitants of the human gastrointestinal tract. Even though enterococci can cause serious infections in multiple sites, they are a rare cause of pneumonia. We present a case of disseminated strongyloides with vancomycin-resistant enterococcus causing pneumonia. The patient had a complicated course with respiratory failure and septic shock. He died eventually due to his severe infections. After a literature review, we could not find a similar case of coinfection of disseminated strongyloides with vancomycin-resistant enterococcus pneumonia in immune-compromised patients.
Unexpected complication of colonoscopy
Authors: Nadarajah Ramesh , Pee Leon
Published: January 2017

The authors present a rare case of a 71-year-old man presenting with large bowel obstruction after attempted colonoscopy. The procedure was impossible to complete due to a tight sigmoid stricture and the patient presented with an acute abdomen the following day. He was managed conservatively and discharged before returning for an elective laparoscopic sigmoid colectomy. The potential differentials of an acute abdomen post-colonoscopy are discussed and the literature reviewed on this rare complication. Finally, the authors review whether there is pressure on endoscopists to ‘complete’ colonoscopies (by achieving caecal intubation) based on regulatory indices in quality, and how this might have to be disregarded in unfavourable circumstances.
Oesophageal presentation of Crohn's disease
Authors: Monteiro Sara , Moreira Maria João , Ribeiro José Manuel , Cotter José
Published: January 2017

Crohn's disease (CD) is characterised by a transmural inflammatory process, which can affect any part of the digestive tract; however, CD with oesophageal presentation is rare. We report a case of a previously healthy young woman with symptoms of dysphagia, odynophagia, chest pain and weight loss, who presented oesophageal ulcers at upper endoscopy and whose histology revealed granulomatous oesophagitis. After complementary study, a mild ileocaecal involvement of CD was demonstrated. The patient became asymptomatic with proton pump inhibitor and a course of prednisolone. Mucosal healing was obtained after maintenance therapy with azathioprine. In the absence of extraoesophageal symptoms, oesophageal CD may be overlooked. CD must always be considered as differential diagnosis in the presence of oesophageal ulcers.
Unsaturated flow in hydrating porous media with application to cemented mine backfill
Authors: Witteman M.L. , Simms P.H.
Published: January 2017

Unsaturated flow in hydrating porous media is pertinent to several engineering applications, including underground and surface use of cemented tailings. Proper description and modelling of flow is complicated by changes in material properties due to hydration as well as by the generation of suction by the net consumption of water volume by hydration, variously termed chemical shrinkage or self-desiccation. It is necessary to define changes in hydraulic properties with time; for instance, the soil-water characteristic curve (SWCC) is not unique in time in addition to being path (drying versus wetting) dependent. To address this problem, a theory for modelling unsaturated flow in hydrating materials is introduced. The theory deconstructs the SWCC into a pore-size distribution, which changes with time as hydration occurs, and the water content, which is a variable that must be tracked with space and time. Matric suction depends on the time-dependent SWCC and the water content variable. The theory is applied to a multi-layer deposition experiment performed in a column, and shows reasonable results.
Comparative phenology of mistletoes shows effect of different host species and temporal niche partitioning
Authors: Teixeira-Costa Luíza , Coelho Fábio Machado , Ceccantini Gregório Cardoso Tápias
Published: January 2017

The study of plant phenology deals with seasonal events and how these are influenced by environmental factors, including symbiotic interactions. Considering host–mistletoe associations, our goal was to analyze the potential effects of host tree deciduousness on the life cycle of a mistletoe. Thus, Struthanthus martianus Dettke & Waechter was analyzed while growing upon a deciduous host tree and upon an evergreen one. We also compared the phenology of S. martianus with that of a closely related and sympatric species, Struthanthus flexicaulis (Mart. ex Schult. f.) Mart., growing upon a different but also evergreen host. Reproductive and vegetative phenological events were recorded during a three year period following a semiquantitative method. Circular statistical analysis was employed to compare phenological patterns. The peak of leaf production in S. martianus was observed to depend on host deciduousness, as the population infesting a deciduous host showed significant leaf flush during host defoliation. When comparing S. martianus and S. flexicaulis, nearly opposite patterns of flowering and fruiting phenology were recorded. Based on these observations, we conclude that Struthanthus species show niche partitioning to avoid competition. Additionally, we observed that the relationship established with different hosts can alter the mistletoe phenology. This observation highlights the uniqueness of the each host–mistletoe relationship.
Riparian forest structure and stream geomorphic condition: implications for flood resilience
Authors: Keeton William S. , Copeland Erin M. , Sullivan S. Mažeika P. , Watzin Mary C.
Published: January 2017

Managing riparian corridors for flood resilience requires understanding of linkages between vegetation condition and stream geomorphology. Stream assessment approaches increasingly use channel morphology as an indicator of stream condition, with only cursory examination of riparian vegetation. Our research (i) examines relationships between stream geomorphic condition, as assessed by Rapid Geomorphic Assessment (RGA) scores, and riparian forest structure, and (ii) investigates scale dependencies in the linkages between land cover and stream geomorphology. We sampled vegetation structure and composition and assessed geomorphic condition at 32 stream reaches within the Lake Champlain Basin, USA. RGA scores were modeled as a function of structural attributes using classification and regression trees. Landsat coverages were used to delineate land uses within five nested spatial scales. Generalized linear models (GLM) evaluated relationships between land cover and RGA scores. Standard deviation of basal area partitioned the greatest variability in RGA scores, but dead tree density and basal area (positively) and shrub density (negatively) were also significant predictors. RGA was related to forest and agricultural cover at the two finest scales. Riparian forest structure is highly dynamic in relation to stand development and disturbance history; simple forest cover information does not capture these differences or their influences on stream geomorphic condition.
Elemental analysis on the particle cross-section of the radioactive cesium contaminated soil by PIXE
Authors: Ohnuma Tohru , Ishii Keizo , Matsuyama Shigeo , Yamaguchi Toshirou , Arai Hiromu , Terakawa Atsuki , Arai Hirotsugu , Takyuu Soudai , Sata Daichi , Seki Daiki , Imaizumi Kouta , Suzuki Syuuhei , Hatakeyama Taisuke
Published: January 2017

The amount of contaminated soil with radioactive cesium (Cs) is more than 22 million cubic meters as a result of the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant accident. In order to save the cost for keeping the soil covered, it is necessary to reduce its volume. To seek methods of efficient volume reduction, we investigated the cross-sections of contaminated soil particles using autoradiography (ARG), SEM, particle-induced X-ray emission (PIXE) analysis. The results of ARG showed that the radioactive Cs atoms were distributed on the surface of contaminated soil particle. PIXE analysis showed that K, Fe and Ti were distributed also on the surface of contaminated soil particle. Therefore, it is considered that the radioactive Cs contamination correlated with the distribution of K, Fe, and Ti. Moreover, the result suggests that it is possible to reduce the volume of contaminated soil by peeling off the radioactive Cs contaminated surface of soil.
Elemental concentration in the hair taken from healthy people for the past 20 years — 1. Long-term changes over 20 years
Authors: Sera K. , Goto S. , Hosokawa T. , Takahashi C. , Itoh J. , Saitoh Y. , Futatsugawa S.
Published: January 2017

We developed a standard-free method for untreated hairs and the method has been applied to quantitative analysis of more than 30,000 hairs taken from the people concerned in order to evaluate exposure to some toxic elements and intakes of essential elements. Besides these analyses, we have measured nearly 2000 hairs collected from healthy people in Japan over the past 20 years. It was found that concentrations of some elements, such as vanadium, chromium, manganese, copper and mercury, keep increasing up to the present. Such tendencies were particularly notable for female, while not clearly observed for male. Concentrations of some essential elements, such as calcium, magnesium and zinc, show no obvious long-term variations. On the other hand, iron and selenium show slightly decreasing tendencies. With regard to toxic elements, it was found that arsenic, chromium and mercury are tending to increase year by year.
Partial conservation law in a schematic single j shell model
Authors: Pereira Wesley , Garcia Ricardo , Zamick Larry , Escuderos Alberto , Neergård Kai
Published: January 2017

We report the discovery of a partial conservation law obeyed by a schematic Hamiltonian of two protons and two neutrons in a [Formula: see text] shell. In our Hamiltonian, the interaction matrix element of two nucleons with combined angular momentum [Formula: see text] is linear in [Formula: see text] for even [Formula: see text] and constant for odd [Formula: see text]. It turns out that in some stationary states, the sum of the angular momenta [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] of the proton and neutron pairs is conserved. The energies of these states are given by a linear function of [Formula: see text]. The systematics of their occurrence is described and explained.
Multi-regulator functional renormalization group for many-fermion systems
Authors: Tanizaki Yuya , Hatsuda Tetsuo
Published: January 2017

We propose a method of multi-regulator functional renormalization group (MR-FRG) which is a novel formulation of functional renormalization group with multiple infrared (IR) regulators. It is applied to a two-component fermionic system with an attractive contact interaction to study crossover phenomena between the Bardeen–Cooper–Schrieffer (BCS) phase and the Bose–Einstein condensation (BEC) phase. To control both the fermionic one-particle excitations and the bosonic collective excitations, IR regulators are introduced, one for the fermionic two-point function and another for the four-fermion vertex. It is shown that the Nozières–Schmitt-Rink (NSR) theory, which is successful to capture qualitative features of the BCS–BEC crossover, can be derived from MR–FRG. Some aspects of MR-FRG to go beyond the NSR theory are also discussed.
Topological Defects in Symmetry-Protected Topological Phases
Authors: Teo Jeffrey C.Y. , Hughes Taylor L.
Published: January 2017

The phenomena associated with topological defects have had an enormous impact in condensed matter physics for more than 50 years. Beginning with an understanding of topological defects in ordered phases, the field is now sharply focused on defects in topological phases of matter. In this review, we cover aspects of defects in conventional ordered media, bound states on defects in strong topological insulators (TIs) and topological superconductors (TSCs), and bound states on defects in crystalline topological phases protected by spatial symmetries. As a unifying theme, we present the structure of many types of index theorems that relate the existence of topological bound states to the bulk topology of the host phase of matter and the topological charge of the relevant defects.
Nonequilibrium Fluctuational Quantum Electrodynamics: Heat Radiation, Heat Transfer, and Force
Authors: Bimonte Giuseppe , Emig Thorsten , Kardar Mehran , Krüger Matthias
Published: January 2017

Quantum-thermal fluctuations of electromagnetic waves are the cornerstone of quantum statistics and inherent to phenomena such as thermal radiation and van der Waals forces. Although the principles are found in elementary texts, recent experimental and technological advances make it necessary to come to terms with counterintuitive consequences at short scales—the so-called near-field regime. We focus on three manifestations: (a) The Stefan–Boltzmann law describes radiation from macroscopic bodies but fails for small objects. (b) The heat transfer between two bodies at close proximity is dominated by evanescent waves and can be orders of magnitude larger than the classical (propagating) contribution. (c) Casimir forces, dominant at submicron separation, are not sufficiently explored for objects at different temperatures (at least experimentally). We explore these phenomena using fluctuational quantum electrodynamics (QED), introduced by Rytov in the 1950s, combined with scattering formalisms. This enables investigation of different material properties, shapes, separations, and arrangements.
Translating Omics to Food Microbiology
Authors: Walsh Aaron M. , Crispie Fiona , Claesson Marcus J. , Cotter Paul D.
Published: January 2017

This review examines the applications of omics technologies in food microbiology, with a primary focus on high-throughput sequencing (HTS) technologies. We discuss the different sequencing approaches applicable to the study of food-related microbial isolates and mixed microbial communities in foods, and we provide an overview of the sequencing platforms suitable for each approach. We highlight the potential for genomics, metagenomics, and metatranscriptomics to guide efforts to optimize food fermentations. Additionally, we explore the use of comparative and functional genomics to further our understanding of the mechanisms of probiotic action and we describe the applicability of HTS as a food safety measure. Finally, we consider the use of HTS to investigate the effects that ingested microbes have on the human gut microbiota.
Engineered Probiotics: Applications and Biological Containment
Authors: Sola-Oladokun Babasola , Culligan Eamonn P. , Sleator Roy D.
Published: January 2017

Bioengineered probiotics represent the next generation of whole cell–mediated biotherapeutics. Advances in synthetic biology, genome engineering, and DNA sequencing and synthesis have enabled scientists to design and develop probiotics with increased stress tolerance and the ability to target specific pathogens and their associated toxins, as well as to mediate targeted delivery of vaccines, drugs, and immunomodulators directly to host cells. Herein, we review the most significant advances in the development of this field. We discuss the critical issue of biological containment and consider the role of synthetic biology in the design and construction of the probiotics of the future.
Perspective Construction in Organizational Behavior
Authors: Weick Karl E.
Published: January 2017

The study of organizational behavior involves constrained comprehension of constrained acting. Perspectives on organizational behavior gain and lose their breadth, substance, and credibility as the person doing the explaining is modified by ongoing experience. These ongoing modifications shape the interpretations that are summarized in a perspective. These dual constraints on comprehension and action form a “career-long voice.” This article explores conceptually, biographically, and prescriptively the ways in which perspectives develop, to suggest tacit means by which the study of organizational behavior can continue to develop.
Transition Processes: A Review and Synthesis Integrating Methods and Theory
Authors: Bliese Paul D. , Adler Amy B. , Flynn Patrick J.
Published: January 2017

In this review, we outline how a methodologically based framework, the discontinuous growth model (DGM), can be used to advance research and theory on transitions. Our review focuses on identifying the types of hypotheses and research questions that can be specified and tested using this framework. Three parameters of the DGM are described: the pre-event covariate (TIMEpre), a transition covariate (TRANS), and a recovery covariate (RECOV). We discuss relevant parameters by analyzing the relative and absolute changes following a transition event. We illustrate the framework with a variety of studies from different contexts and address the difficulty of interpreting responses to events without TIMEpre data. In addition, we discuss the role of large longitudinal databases as sources for advancing research and theory surrounding transitions, particularly for rare and unexpected events. Finally, we discuss ways in which transition research can inform our understanding of individual, team, and organizational resilience and adaptation.
Emotions in the Workplace
Authors: Ashkanasy Neal M. , Dorris Alana D.
Published: January 2017

Beginning in the 1990s and following decades of neglect, what came to be referred to as the Affective Revolution has radically transformed our understanding of the role played by emotion in organizational psychology and organizational behavior (OPOB). In this article, we review the field of emotion in the workplace from different perspectives, corresponding to five discrete levels of analysis: (a) within-person temporal effects, (b) between-person (personality and attitudes) factors, (c) interpersonal behaviors (perception and communication of emotion), (d) group level (leadership and teams), and (e) organizational level (culture and climate). Within these perspectives, we address the importance of affective events theory (AET) and its interaction with emotional intelligence, emotional labor, and emotional contagion, as well as the role of emotion in leadership and organizational culture and climate. We conclude by presenting an integrative model that shows how the five levels are linked, followed by discussion of measurement issues, ideas and areas for future research, and suggestions for practice.
Quantum State–Resolved Studies of Chemisorption Reactions
Authors: Chadwick Helen , Beck Rainer D.
Published: January 2017

Chemical reactions at the gas–surface interface are ubiquitous in the chemical industry as well as in nature. Investigating these processes at a microscopic, quantum state–resolved level helps develop a predictive understanding of this important class of reactions. In this review, we present an overview of the field of quantum state–resolved gas–surface reactivity measurements that explore the role of the initial quantum state on the dissociative chemisorption of a gas-phase reactant incident on a solid surface. Using molecular beams and either quantum state–specific reactant preparation or product detection by laser excitation, these studies have observed mode specificity and bond selectivity as well as steric effects in chemisorption reactions, highlighting the nonstatistical and complex nature of gas–surface reaction dynamics.
Moving From Discovery to System-Wide Change: The Role of Research in a Learning Health Care System: Experience from Three Decades of Health Systems Research in the Veterans Health Administration
Authors: Atkins David , Kilbourne Amy M. , Shulkin David
Published: January 2017

The Veterans Health Administration is unique, functioning as an integrated health care system that provides care to more than six million veterans annually and as a home to an established scientific enterprise that conducts more than $1 billion of research each year. The presence of research, spanning the continuum from basic health services to translational research, has helped the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) realize the potential of a learning health care system and has contributed to significant improvements in clinical quality over the past two decades. It has also illustrated distinct pathways by which research influences clinical care and policy and has provided lessons on challenges in translating research into practice on a national scale. These lessons are increasingly relevant to other health care systems, as the issues confronting the VA—the need to provide timely access, coordination of care, and consistent high quality across a diverse system—mirror those of the larger US health care system.
Climate Change and Global Food Systems: Potential Impacts on Food Security and Undernutrition
Authors: Myers Samuel S. , Smith Matthew R. , Guth Sarah , Golden Christopher D. , Vaitla Bapu , Mueller Nathaniel D. , Dangour Alan D. , Huybers Peter
Published: January 2017

Great progress has been made in addressing global undernutrition over the past several decades, in part because of large increases in food production from agricultural expansion and intensification. Food systems, however, face continued increases in demand and growing environmental pressures. Most prominently, human-caused climate change will influence the quality and quantity of food we produce and our ability to distribute it equitably. Our capacity to ensure food security and nutritional adequacy in the face of rapidly changing biophysical conditions will be a major determinant of the next century's global burden of disease. In this article, we review the main pathways by which climate change may affect our food production systems—agriculture, fisheries, and livestock—as well as the socioeconomic forces that may influence equitable distribution.
Generalizing about Public Health Interventions: A Mixed-Methods Approach to External Validity
Authors: Leviton Laura C.
Published: January 2017

Public health researchers and practitioners are calling for greater focus on external validity, the ability to generalize findings of evidence-based interventions (EBIs) beyond the limited number of studies testing effectiveness. For public health, the goal is applicability: to translate, disseminate, and implement EBIs for an impact on population health. This article is a review of methods and how they might be combined to better assess external validity. The methods include (a) better description of EBIs and their contexts; (b) combining of statistical tools and logic to draw inferences about study samples; (c) sharper definition of the theory behind the intervention and core intervention components; and (d) more systematic consultation of practitioners. For population impact, studies should focus on context features that are likely to be both important (based on program theory) and frequently encountered by practitioners. Mixed-method programs of research will allow public health to expand causal generalizations.
Surveillance Systems to Track and Evaluate Obesity Prevention Efforts
Authors: Hoelscher Deanna M. , Ranjit Nalini , Pérez Adriana
Published: January 2017

To address the obesity epidemic, the public health community must develop surveillance systems that capture data at levels through which obesity prevention efforts are conducted. Current systems assess body mass index (BMI), diet, and physical activity behaviors at the individual level, but environmental and policy-related data are often lacking. The goal of this review is to describe US surveillance systems that evaluate obesity prevention efforts within the context of international trends in obesity monitoring, to identify potential data gaps, and to present recommendations to improve the evaluation of population-level initiatives. Our recommendations include adding environmental and policy measures to surveillance efforts with a focus on addressing underserved populations, harmonizing existing surveillance systems, including more sensitive measures of obesity outcomes, and developing a knowledgeable workforce. In addition, the widespread use of electronic health records and new technologies that allow self-quantification of behaviors offers opportunities for innovative surveillance methods.
Stochastic Actor-Oriented Models for Network Dynamics
Authors: Snijders Tom A.B.
Published: January 2017

This article discusses the stochastic actor-oriented model for analyzing panel data of networks. The model is defined as a continuous-time Markov chain, observed at two or more discrete time moments. It can be regarded as a generalized linear model with a large amount of missing data. Several estimation methods are discussed. After presenting the model for evolution of networks, attention is given to coevolution models. These use the same approach of a continuous-time Markov chain observed at a small number of time points, but now with an extended state space. The state space can be, for example, the combination of a network and nodal variables, or a combination of several networks. This leads to models for the dynamics of multivariate networks. The article emphasizes the approach to modeling and algorithmic issues for estimation; some attention is given to comparison with other models.
Umbilical Venous Catheter Malposition Is Associated with Necrotizing Enterocolitis in Premature Infants
Authors: Sulemanji Mustafa , Vakili Khashayar , Zurakowski David , Tworetzky Wayne , Fishman Steven J. , Kim Heung Bae
Published: January 2017

Objective: The etiology of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) remains elusive despite known associations with several factors, including intestinal ischemia related to the effects of umbilical arterial catheterization on the mesenteric circulation. However, the role of the mesenteric venous circulation has yet to be studied as a potential cause of NEC. We examined the association between umbilical venous catheter (UVC) position and the development of NEC in premature infants. Design: A prospective cohort study was performed to examine the effect of UVC on portosystemic shunting via the ductus venosus (DV) and its potential role in NEC. Results: We recruited 132 premature infants, 62 of which had a birth weight ≤1,500 g. NEC was noted in 12 (19%) patients. All infants weighing ≤1,500 g underwent an attempt at UVC insertion. The UVC status was classified as appropriate (n = 39), unsuccessful (n = 9), or malpositioned (n = 14). Among the NEC patients, 7 (58%) had a UVC malposition and 3 (25%) had an unsuccessful attempt. These rates were significantly higher than in patients without NEC (14 and 12%, respectively). Multivariable logistic regression analysis confirmed birth weight (OR 2.2, 95% CI 1.2-4.7, p = 0.001) and UVC malpositioning (OR 6.9, 95% CI 1.6-35.4, p = 0.007) as independent risk factors associated with NEC. Conclusions: Unrecognized withdrawal of a UVC into the portal vein or DV is associated with an increased incidence of NEC in infants weighing ≤1,500 g. The data support the need for additional studies to examine this effect. Confirmation of a causal relationship will raise the need to reassess UVC insertion criteria and strategies for more closely monitoring the catheter tip position.
Malignant Mixed Müllerian Tumour of the Uterus: Analysis of 44 Cases
Authors: Grasso Silvana , Loizzi Vera , Minicucci Valentina , Resta Leonardo , Camporeale Anna Lina , Cicinelli Ettore , Cormio Gennaro
Published: January 2017

Objectives: The aim of our study was to evaluate the clinicopathological features and prognostic factors of uterine carcinosarcoma. Patients and Methods: In this retrospective study, the clinical characteristics of 44 patients with uterine MMMT were evaluated. Survival curves were estimated by the Kaplan-Meier method and compared by the log-rank test. Results: Forty-four patients with uterine carcinosarcoma were referred to our unit between 1995 and 2015. Their median age was 66.5 years. All women underwent total abdominal hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy. Twenty-five percent had omental resection. Pelvic lymphadenectomy was performed in 18.2% of the cases. Twenty-six of the patients presented with stage I/II disease, 17 with advanced stages. In 20.5% of the cases there were metastases at diagnosis. Forty women received adjuvant chemotherapy, with complete remission in 67.9% of the cases. Recurrences were observed in 27.3% of the women. Disease-free and overall survival was 27 and 103 months, respectively. The FIGO stage, histological type, tumour size, chemotherapy regimen, pelvic lymphadenectomy, and myometrial invasion did not affect survival. Conclusions: Uterine MMMT is an aggressive tumour, often diagnosed at an advanced stage and with a high rate of metastases or recurrences. Because of its rarity, its management is controversial and fixed prognostic factors cannot be defined.
Is Fat Mass Accretion of Late Preterm Infants Associated with Insulin Resistance?
Authors: Liotto Nadia , Giannì Maria Lorella , Taroni Francesca , Roggero Paola , Condello Chiara Cristiana , Orsi Anna , Menis Camilla , Bonfanti Riccardo , Mosca Fabio
Published: January 2017

Background: Late preterm infants show a major fat mass accretion from birth to term. The contribution of preterm birth to the development of the metabolic syndrome is still under investigation. Objectives: To evaluate body composition changes in late preterm infants during the first 3 months and to investigate their insulin sensitivity and resistance. Methods: We conducted an observational, longitudinal study. A total of 216 late preterm infants underwent body composition assessment using an air displacement plethysmograph at term and at 3 months of corrected age. In a subgroup of infants (n = 48) the blood glucose and insulin concentration were determined at term and insulin resistance (homeostasis model assessment for insulin resistance; HOMA-IR) and sensitivity (quantitative insulin sensitivity check index; QUICKI) were then calculated. The reference group comprised 71 healthy term infants. Results: The mean birth weight and gestational age were 2,390 ± 391 g and 35.2 ± 0.8 weeks, respectively. At term the fat mass index (kg/m2) of late preterm infants, born adequate for their gestational age and small for their gestational age, was higher than that of term infants (2.08 ± 0.82 vs. 1.62 ± 0.64 vs. 1.03 ± 0.36, p < 0.005, respectively), whereas at 3 months of corrected age no difference was found among the groups. The mean values of glucose, insulin, HOMA-IR, and QUICKI were within the 5th and 95th percentiles. Conclusions: On the basis of these preliminary findings, fat mass accretion of late preterm infants appears not to be associated with perturbation of the glucose homeostasis.
A Mystery of Bilateral Annular Choroidal and Exudative Retinal Detachment with No Systemic Involvement: Is It Part of Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada Disease Spectrum or a New Entity
Authors: Elaraoud Ibrahim , Andreatta Walter , Jiang Li , Damer Kenan , Al-Ibrahim Jalil
Published: January 2017

A 65-year-old Caucasian male presented to the eye emergency department with bilateral significant visual loss. He was otherwise healthy with no significant past medical history. Ophthalmic history was significant for chronic open-angle glaucoma, for which the patient was using latanoprost once daily to both eyes. There was no preceding history of trauma or ocular surgery and the patient was emmetropic. Two weeks prior to his presentation, he reported a headache, which settled spontaneously. Slit-lamp examination demonstrated bilateral keratic precipitates, bilateral significantly shallow anterior chamber, and bilaterally normal intraocular pressures of 16 mm Hg. Fundal examination was significant for bilateral 360-degree choroidal detachments with exudative retinal detachment involving the maculae. These findings were confirmed using wide-field fundus photography, B-scan ultrasonography, and optical coherence tomography. Fundus fluorescein angiography did not reveal any evidence of retinal vasculitis. Indocyanine green chorioangiography of the posterior pole showed multiple areas of focal choroidal hypoperfusion. Extensive systemic investigation demonstrated no infectious, neoplastic, or inflammatory cause, and the patient did not complain of any systemic symptoms. Treatment with high-dose intravenous methylprednisolone was administered and this brought about complete resolution of both choroidal and retinal detachments, with partial visual recovery.
Successful Treatment of Advanced Primary Cutaneous Apocrine Carcinoma on the Scrotum with Systemic Chemotherapy and Radiotherapy Followed by Denosumab
Authors: Furudate Sadanori , Fujimura Taku , Tsukada Akira , Sato Yota , Hidaka Takanori , Tanita Kayo , Kambayashi Yumi , Haga Takahiro , Hashimoto Akira , Aiba Setsuya
Published: January 2017

Primary cutaneous apocrine carcinoma (PCAC) is a rare and highly aggressive cutaneous adnexal type of tumor that has a high metastasis rate and a poor prognosis. Although there are several case reports describing the successful treatment of PCAC with chemoradiotherapy or molecular targeting therapy, no standard therapy for the treatment of advanced PCAC has been established yet. Since receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand (RANKL) is expressed in cancers of apocrine origin, leading to immunosuppression at the tumor site, we hypothesized that targeting RANKL with denosumab might be useful for the treatment of PCAC. In this report, we describe a case with advanced PCAC on the scrotum successfully treated with systemic chemotherapy using carboplatin and paclitaxel, and radiotherapy followed by denosumab.
Effects of in utero and Postnatal Exposure to Secondhand Smoke on Lung Function by Gender and Asthma Status: The Seven Northeastern Cities (SNEC) Study
Authors: Hu Li-Wen , Yang Mo , Chen Shu , Shah Kuntal , Hailegiorgis Yismaw , Burgens Richai , Vaughn Michael , Huang Jin , Xaverius Pamela , Paul Gunther , Morawska Lidia , Lu Tao , Lin Shao , Zhong Shou-Qiang , Kong Min-Li , Xie Yan-Qi , Hao Yuan-Tao , Zeng Xiao-Wen , Qian Zhengmin , Dong Guang-Hui
Published: January 2017

Background: Little information exists on whether gender or asthma status modifies the effects of secondhand smoke (SHS) exposure on lung function. Objective: To evaluate whether gender or asthma status modifies the association of SHS exposure with lung function. Methods: A total of 6,740 children (average 11.6 years) were recruited from 24 districts of 7 cities in northeast China in 2012. SHS exposure included exposure to environmental and maternal smoking both in utero and during early childhood (postnatal). Lung function was measured using electronic spirometers. Two-step regressions were used to analyze the association between SHS and lung function. Results: In utero and postnatal exposure to SHS was independently associated with decreased lung function in both genders; however, this association was greater among males. For example, when exposed to maternal smoking during pregnancy, the adjusted odds ratio (aOR) for decreased forced vital capacity (FVC) was 6.46 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.58-16.17) among males, while only 2.16 (95% CI: 0.96-4.88) among females. More positive associations between SHS exposure and decreased lung function were detected among nonasthmatic compared with asthmatic children. Nonasthmatics had significantly larger deficits from in utero exposure to maternal smoking, which concerned decreased lung FVC function (aOR = 2.58, 95% CI: 1.28-5.21) and decreased lung forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) function (aOR = 2.32, 95% CI: 1.01-5.33). A similar pattern was also observed for the associations between SHS exposure and continuous pulmonary function test measurements. Conclusions: SHS exposure was associated with decreased lung function. Males and nonasthmatics seem to be more susceptible than their respective counterparts.
Lluciapomaresius nisae, a new species of Ephippigerini (Orthoptera: Tettigoniidae: Bradyporinae) from the northeast of the Iberian Peninsula
Authors: OLMO-VIDAL JOSEP MARIA
Published: January 2017

A new species of the genus Lluciapomaresius Barat, 2012 is described from Serra de Llaberia in Catalonia (in the northeast of Iberian Peninsula). Lluciapomaresius nisae n. sp. was collected in a Mediterranean pine forest dominated by European black pine (Pinus nigra) and secondarily by Calcicolous rosemary scrub. L. nisae is compared to L. panteli (Navàs, 1899) from which it can be separated mainly by the shape of the male cerci, the titillators and the male calling song. Also in the females by the protuberances at the base of the ventral valves of the ovipositor.
Revision of Terellia amberboae group of species (Diptera: Tephritidae)
Authors: ZARGHANI EBRAHIM , KHAGHANINIA SAMAD , NAMIN SAEED MOHAMADZADE , KORNEYEV VALERY A.
Published: January 2017

Terellia barughii new species from Tabriz (East Azerbaijan Province) and T. babaki new species from Qazvin Province (Iran) are described and figured, and Terellia amberboae V. Korneyev & Merz, 1996 is redescribed. A new species group is established, host plant and phylogenetic relationships are briefly discussed, and a key to species is provided.
A Dynamic Index for the Westward Ridge Point Variability of the Western Pacific Subtropical High during Summer
Authors: Yang Ruowen , Xie Zhiang , Cao Jie
Published: January 2017

Based on the ridge line of the western Pacific subtropical high (WPSH) and the theory of gradient wind approximation, a dynamic index for the westward ridge point (WRPI) of the WPSH is defined. Owing to its definition, the new dynamic index can be used to analyze the evolution of the WPSH at various time scales over most isobaric surfaces. The WRPI comprises two dimensions labeled ZWRPI and MWRPI, which depict the zonal and meridional movement, respectively, of the westward ridge point of the WPSH. The rationality and reliability of the dynamic index were validated using reanalysis atmospheric circulation, outgoing longwave radiation, surface air temperature, and rainfall data. The WRPI series revealed that the westward ridge point of the WPSH generally advances poleward while withdrawing eastward. Furthermore, there were close relationships between the WRPI, atmospheric circulation, outgoing longwave radiation, and precipitation over East Asia and the western Pacific in summer. The significant correlation coefficients indicated that the ZWRPI and the MWRPI can reflect the impact of the zonal and meridional movement of the WPSH on the climate over East Asia and the western Pacific. The ZWRPI has no significant linear trend at the interdecadal time scale, indicating that the WPSH did not significantly extend westward in summer. The slight decrease of the MWRPI suggests that the WPSH moves southward but with an insignificant trend. Compared with indices proposed in previous studies, the WRPI showed advantages in objectivity, reliability, predictability, practicability, and therefore extensive potential for application.
Near-Surface Wind Observation Impact on Forecasts: Temporal Propagation of the Analysis Increment
Authors: Bédard Joël , Laroche Stéphane , Gauthier Pierre
Published: January 2017

This study examines the assimilation of near-surface wind observations over land to improve wind nowcasting and short-term tropospheric forecasts. A new geostatistical operator based on geophysical model output statistics (GMOS) is compared with a bilinear interpolation scheme (Bilin). The multivariate impact on forecasts and the temporal evolution of the analysis increments produced are examined as well as the influence of background error covariances on different components of the prediction system. Results show that Bilin significantly degrades surface and upper-air fields when assimilating only wind data from 4942 SYNOP stations. GMOS on the other hand produces smaller increments that are in better agreement with the model state. It leads to better short-term near-surface wind forecasts and does not deteriorate the upper-air forecasts. The information persists longer in the system with GMOS, although the local improvements do not propagate beyond 6-h lead time. Initial model tendencies indicate that the mass field is not significantly altered when using static error covariances and the boundary layer parameterizations damp the poorly balanced increment locally. Conversely, most of the analysis increment is propagated when using flow-dependent error statistics. It results in better balanced wind and mass fields and provides a more persistent impact on the forecasts. Forecast accuracy results from observing system experiments (assimilating SYNOP winds with all observations used operationally) are generally neutral. Nevertheless, forecasts and analyses from GMOS are more self-consistent than those from both Bilin and a control experiment (not assimilating near-surface winds over land) and the information from the observations persists up to 12-h lead time.
Ethnic choice effects at the transition into upper-secondary education in Switzerland
Authors: Tjaden Jasper Dag , Scharenberg Katja
Published: January 2017

Compared to natives, students with immigrant background are – other things being equal – more likely to choose academic tracks over vocational education and training (VET) at upper-secondary level. Evidence of so-called ethnic choice effects is mostly based on education systems where vocational tracks are often regarded as ‘unfavourable’. Our study investigated ethnic choice effects at the end of compulsory school in Switzerland, a country with a strong VET sector offering competitive incentives, particularly for students with lower or average achievement. Based on longitudinal data from the ‘Transitions from Education to Employment’ (TREE) survey, we found that most migrant groups were more likely to choose academic-track pathways preparing for university admission over VET preparing more directly for employment. Nested logistic regression analyses revealed that a large share of these ethnic choice effects was explained by immigrant optimism. Our findings shed light on general educational decision-making processes among migrant families and their potential consequences for ethnic inequality in post-compulsory education.
Norwegian Security Policy: Options and Constraints
Authors: Holst Johan Jørgen
Published: January 2017

The structure and assumptions of Norwegian security policy in the context of the evolving political order in Europe and the codification of superpower relations are outlined. Attitudes towards the future evolution of NATO, and the competing perspectives which were brought to bear on security policy issues in the EC referendum campaign and its aftermath, are examined. The Norwegian security predicament is influenced directly by the naval competition of the superpowers. Norwegian defence policy is examined from the point of view of missions and force posture. Finally, the author discusses the role of arms control in Norwegian security policy.