bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Injectable Apatite Permeable Reactive Barrier for In Situ 90Sr Immobilization
Authors: Vermeul Vince R. , Szecsody Jim E. , Fritz Brad G. , Williams Mark D. , Moore Robert C. , Fruchter Jonathan S.
Published: March 2018

An injectable permeable reactive barrier (PRB) technology was developed to sequester 90Sr in groundwater through the in situ formation of calcium‐phosphate mineral phases, specifically apatite that incorporates 90Sr into the chemical structure. This injectable barrier technology extends the PRB concept to sites where groundwater contaminants are too deep or where site conditions otherwise preclude the application of more traditional trench‐emplaced barriers. An integrated, multiscale development and testing approach was used that included laboratory bench‐scale experiments, an initial pilot‐scale field test, and the emplacement and evaluation of a 300‐feet‐long treatability‐test‐scale PRB. The apatite amendment formulation uses two separate precursor solutions, one containing a Ca‐citrate complex and the other a Na‐phosphate solution, to form apatite precipitate in situ. Citrate is needed to keep calcium in solution long enough to achieve a more uniform and areally extensive distribution of precipitate formation. In the summer of 2008, the apatite PRB technology was applied as a 91‐m‐long (300 feet) PRB on the downgradient edge of a 90Sr plume beneath the Hanford Site in Washington State. The technology was deployed to reduce 90Sr flux discharging to the Columbia River. Performance assessment monitoring data collected to date indicate that the barrier is meeting treatment objectives (i.e., 90% reduction in 90Sr concentration). The average reduction in 90Sr concentrations at four downgradient compliance monitoring locations was 95% relative to the high end of the baseline range approximately 1 year after treatment, and continues to meet remedial objectives more than 4 years after treatment.
Temperature as a Tool to Evaluate Aerobic Biodegradation in Hydrocarbon Contaminated Soil
Authors: Sweeney Robert E. , Ririe G. Todd
Published: March 2018

This study evaluates the theory, and some practical aspects of using temperature measurements to assess aerobic biodegradation in hydrocarbon contaminated soil. The method provides an easily applicable alternative for quantifying the rate of biodegradation and/or evaluating the performance of in situ remediation systems. The method involves two nonintrusive procedures for measuring vertical temperature profiles down existing monitoring wells; one using a thermistor on a cable for one‐time measurements and the other using compact temperature data loggers deployed for 3‐month to 1‐year period. These vertical temperature profile measurements are used to identify the depth and lateral extent of biodegradation as well as to monitor seasonal temperature changes throughout the year. The basic theory for using temperature measurements to estimate the minimum rate of biodegradation will be developed, and used to evaluate field measurements from sites in California where biodegradation of spilled petroleum hydrocarbons is due to natural processes. Following, temperature data will be used to evaluate the relative rates of biodegradation due to natural processes and soil vapor extraction (SVE) at a former refinery site in the North‐Central United States. The results from this study show that the temperature method can be a simple, cost effective tool for assessing biodegradation in the soil, and optimizing remediation systems at a wide variety of hydrocarbon spill sites.
Persistence of a Groundwater Contaminant Plume after Hydraulic Source Containment at a Chlorinated‐Solvent Contaminated Site
Authors: Matthieu D. E. , Brusseau M. L. , Guo Z. , Plaschke M. , Carroll K. C. , Brinker F.
Published: March 2018

The objective of this study was to characterize the behavior of a groundwater contaminant (trichloroethene, TCE) plume after implementation of a source‐containment operation at a site in Arizona. The plume resides in a quasi‐three‐layer system comprising a sand/gravel unit bounded on the top and bottom by relatively thick silty clayey layers. The system was monitored for 60 months beginning at start‐up in 2007 to measure the change in contaminant concentrations within the plume, the change in plume area, the mass of the contaminant removed, and the integrated contaminant mass discharge (CMD). The concentrations of TCE in groundwater pumped from the plume extraction wells have declined significantly over the course of operation, as have concentrations for groundwater sampled from 40 monitoring wells located within the plume. The total CMD associated with operation of the plume extraction wells peaked at 0.23 kg/d, decreased significantly within 1 year, and thereafter began an asymptotic decline to a current value of approximately 0.03 kg/d. Despite an 87% reduction in contaminant mass and a comparable 87% reduction in CMD for the plume, the spatial area encompassed by the plume has decreased by only approximately 50%. This is much less than would be anticipated based on ideal flushing and mass‐removal behavior. Simulations produced with a simplified three‐dimensional (3D) numerical model matched reasonably well to the measured data. The results of the study suggest that permeability heterogeneity, back diffusion, hydraulic factors associated with the specific well field system, and residual discharge from the source zone are all contributing to the observed persistence of the plume, as well as the asymptotic behavior currently observed for mass removal and for the reduction in CMD.
Organic Contaminants in Portland Cements Used in Monitoring Well Construction
Authors: Smith Bert , Siegel Donald , Neslund Charles , Carter Charles
Published: March 2018

We report the results of two independent laboratory investigations to evaluate total and leachable concentrations of glycols, glycol ethers, phenol, and other compounds in representative Type I and Type I/II Portland cement products that United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), The American Society of Testing and Materials (ASTM) and others recommend as annular sealants in monitoring well completions. Water well drillers also use these cements in their well completions. The EPA has included some of these compounds for analysis in their National Hydraulic Fracturing Study to evaluate the effects of hydraulic fracturing on ground‐ and surface water resources. During any contaminant investigation, materials used in monitoring or water well drilling, completion, development, and sampling must be free of the chemicals being targeted by the regulatory agency. Three of five bulk cement products we tested contained part per million (ppm) (mg/kg) concentrations of diethylene glycol, ethylene glycol, tetraethylene glycol, and triethylene glycol; chemicals added as grinding aids during manufacture. Some cements also contained ppb (µg/kg) concentrations of benzoic acid, phenols, propylene glycol, and 2‐butoxyethanol. Leaching of cured cement samples in water produced ppm (mg/L) concentrations of glycols in the supernatant. These results show that cured cements in monitoring or water wells can contaminate groundwater samples with glycols and phenol. Our findings should help prevent future sample bias and false positives when testing for glycol compounds and phenol in groundwater samples from monitoring or water wells and highlight the need to test materials or products used in monitoring or water well drilling, completions, development, and sampling to avoid false positives when sampling and analyzing for less common analytical constituents.
Evaluation of Seasonal Factors on Petroleum Hydrocarbon Vapor Biodegradation and Intrusion Potential in a Cold Climate
Authors: Hers Ian , Jourabchi Parisa , Lahvis Matthew A. , Dahlen Paul , Luo E. Hong , Johnson Paul , DeVaull George E. , Mayer K. Ulrich
Published: March 2018

A detailed seasonal study of soil vapor intrusion at a cold climate site with average yearly temperature of 1.9 °C was conducted at a house with a crawlspace that overlay a shallow dissolved‐phase petroleum hydrocarbon (gasoline) plume in North Battleford, Saskatchewan, Canada. This research was conducted primarily to assess if winter conditions, including snow/frost cover, and cold soil temperatures, influence aerobic biodegradation of petroleum vapors in soil and the potential for vapor intrusion. Continuous time‐series data for oxygen, pressure differentials, soil temperature, soil moisture, and weather conditions were collected from a high‐resolution monitoring network. Seasonal monitoring of groundwater, soil vapor, crawlspace air, and indoor air was also undertaken. Petroleum hydrocarbon vapor attenuation and biodegradation rates were not significantly reduced during low temperature winter months and there was no evidence for a significant capping effect of snow or frost cover that would limit oxygen ingress from the atmosphere. In the residual light nonaqueous phase liquid (LNAPL) source area adjacent to the house, evidence for biodegradation included rapid attenuation of hydrocarbon vapor concentrations over a vertical interval of approximately 0.9 m, and a corresponding decrease in oxygen to less than 1.5% v/v. In comparison, hydrocarbon vapor concentrations above the dissolved plume and below the house were much lower and decreased sharply within a few tens of centimeters above the groundwater source. Corresponding oxygen concentrations in soil gas were at least 10% v/v. A reactive transport model (MIN3P‐DUSTY) was initially calibrated to data from vertical profiles at the site to obtain biodegradation rates, and then used to simulate the observed soil vapor distribution. The calibrated model indicated that soil vapor transport was dominated by diffusion and aerobic biodegradation, and that crawlspace pressures and soil gas advection had little influence on soil vapor concentrations.
Efficacy of ledipasvir/sofosbuvir with or without ribavirin for 12 weeks in genotype 1b HCV patients previously treated with a nonstructural protein 5A inhibitor‐containing regimen
Authors: Ikeda Hiroki , Watanabe Tsunamasa , Shimizu Hirohito , Hiraishi Tetsuya , Kaneko Rena , Baba Toshiyuki , Takahashi Hideaki , Matsunaga Kotaro , Matsumoto Nobuyuki , Yasuda Hiroshi , Okuse Chiaki , Iwabuchi Shogo , Suzuki Michihiro , Itoh Fumio
Published: March 2018

Aim

The therapeutic benefit of adding ribavirin (RBV) to 12 weeks of ledipasvir/sofosbuvir (LDV/SOF) for patients who experienced failure of a previous nonstructural protein (NS) 5A inhibitor‐containing regimen is unclear.

Methods

A total of 29 genotype 1b HCV patients who had failed prior daclatasvir (DCV) plus asunaprevir (ASV) treatment were retreated for 12 weeks of LDV/SOF, with or without RBV. Antiviral efficacy and predictive factors associating with a sustained virological response at 24 weeks (SVR24) were evaluated retrospectively.

Results

SVR24 was achieved in 67% (10/15) of patients who received LDV/SOF with, and 64% (9/14) without, RBV. The SVR24 rates were 80% in patients with, and 58% without, mild fibrosis (FIB‐4 < 3.25). The SVR24 rate was lower with unfavorable IL28B rs8099917 SNP genotypes; specifically, the TT, TG and GG had SVR24 rates of 78%, 50% and 40%. The SVR24 rate was lower with a poor response to prior DCV plus ASV, where relapse, viral breakthrough and no response had SVR24 rates 71%, 58% and 0%. The SVR24 rate was lower with the number of NS5A resistance‐associated substitutions (RAS), where 2, 3, 4 and 5 RAS had SVR24 rates of 78%, 67%, 50% and 0%. A patient with an NS5A‐P32 deletion, which shows resistance to next‐generation NS5A inhibitors, was retreated with LDV/SOF with RBV and achieved SVR24.

Conclusions

The addition of RBV to 12 weeks of LDV/SOF has little therapeutic benefit when retreating patients in whom a prior NS5A inhibitor‐containing regimen had failed.
Astrocyte elevated gene‐1 participates in the production of pro‐inflammatory cytokines in dental pulp cells via NF‐κB signalling pathway
Authors: Wu H. , He M. , Yang R. , Zuo Y. , Bian Z.
Published: March 2018

Aim

To identify the role of astrocyte elevated gene‐1 (AEG‐1) and the mechanism underlying the inflammatory response in dental pulp cells.

Methodology

Astrocyte elevated gene‐1 expression was detected at different stages of pulpitis in a rat model using immunohistochemistry. RT‐qPCR and Western blot were used to assess AEG‐1 expression in human dental pulp cells stimulated by lipopolysaccharide (LPS). The LPS‐induced expression of inflammatory cytokine genes was quantified by RT‐qPCR in cells transfected with AEG‐1 or negative control (NC) siRNA. Immunofluorescence and Western blot were utilized to evaluate the activation of NF‐κB signalling in AEG‐1 knockdown cells. AEG‐1 expression was also investigated by Western blot in dental pulp cells pre‐treated with inhibitors of NF‐κB and PI‐3K signalling before the addition of LPS. Data were analysed statistically using one‐way anova.

Results

The exposure of dental pulp tissue to LPS resulted in acute inflammation with necrosis and AEG‐1 expression in the pulp tissue beneath the perforation. In LPS‐stimulated dental pulp cells, AEG‐1 mRNA and protein were significantly up‐regulated (P < 0 .05) in a time‐ and dose‐dependent manner. In AEG‐1 knockdown cells, the synthesis of IL‐1, IL‐6 and TNF‐α mRNA was suppressed significantly (P < 0.05) upon LPS induction. AEG‐1 knockdown also inhibited nuclear translocation of p65. Suppression of NF‐κB and PI‐3K abrogated the LPS‐induced up‐regulation of AEG‐1.

Conclusion

Astrocyte elevated gene‐1 participated in inflammatory cytokine synthesis via NF‐κB signalling in the dental pulp. Both NF‐κB and PI‐3K signalling are involved in LPS‐induced AEG‐1 expression in dental pulp cells.
Improvement in electrical properties of thermoelectric CuAlO2 ceramics aided by aluminosilicate glass
Authors: Ma Bingchuang , Zhu Mankang , Zheng Mupeng , Hou Yudong
Published: March 2018

Delafossite CuAlO2 (CAO) ceramics were fabricated by the solid‐state route, using aluminosilicate glass powders as a sintering aid to improve the sintering ability and electrical conductivity, at 1473 K for 3 hours. The CAO ceramics with glass addition obviously enhanced bulk density, grain size, and electrical conductivity. It is found that the conductivity of CAO ceramics increased with the increase in glass content under 9.5%, whereas it was over 9.5%, the conductivity went down. The glass coming up to 9.5% increased the sintering ability and the electrical conductivity which was increased by one order of magnitude, thus increasing the figure of merit ZT for thermoelectric performance of our CAO added with 9.5% glass up to 9.82 × 10−3 at 773 K, which is a high value among the CAO ceramics. Besides, the impedance analysis shows that the impedance of the CAO ceramic was controlled by its grain boundary.
Differential surface phenotype and context‐dependent reactivity of functionally diverse NKT cells
Authors: Cameron Garth , Godfrey Dale I
Published: March 2018

Natural Killer T (NKT) cells are a functionally diverse population that recognizes lipid‐based antigens in association with the antigen‐presenting molecule CD1d. Here, we define a technique to separate the functionally distinct thymic NKT1, NKT2 and NKT17 cell subsets by their surface expression of CD278 (ICOS) and the activation‐associated glycoform of CD43, enabling the investigation of subset‐specific effector‐functions. We report that all three subsets express the transcription factor GATA‐3 and the potential to produce IL‐4 and IL‐10 following activation. This questions the notion that NKT2 cells are the predominant source of IL‐4 within the NKT cell pool, and suggests that IL‐10‐production may be more indicative of NKT cell plasticity than the existence of a distinct regulatory lineage or subset. We also show that many NKT17 cells are CD4+ and are biased toward Vβ8.3 TCR gene usage. Lastly, we demonstrate that the toll‐like receptor (TLR) ligand lipopolysaccharide (LPS) can induce a NKT17 cell‐biased response, even in the absence of exogenous antigen, and that combining LPS with α‐GalCer resulted in enhanced IL‐17A‐production, and reduced levels of the immunosuppressive cytokine IL‐10. This study provides a novel means to examine the context‐dependent reactivity of the functionally heterogeneous NKT cell population and provides important new insight into the functional biology of these subsets.
The level of collaboration amongst nurses in Turkey
Authors: Durmuş S.Ç. , Ekici D. , Yildirim A.
Published: March 2018

Aim

This study was conducted to determine the level of collaboration amongst nurses in Turkey.

Background

Collaboration amongst nurses is thought to increase nurse–physician collaboration and decrease medical mistakes. It has been connected with positive patient outcomes and increased job satisfaction for nurses. There are some studies on nurse–physician collaboration in Turkey, but nurse–nurse collaboration has not been measured before in this context. There are limited studies in the literature on nurse–nurse collaboration.

Methods

The sample of this study consisted of 859 nurses who work at one public hospital, one university hospital and four private hospitals in Turkey. The study was designed as descriptive and cross‐sectional research. The data were collected using the nurse–nurse collaboration scale and a socio‐demographic questionnaire. The nurse–nurse collaboration scale comprises five subdimensions: problem‐solving, shared process, communication, coordination and professionalism. The cut‐off value of the scale for minimum expected collaboration degree was determined as 2.5.

Results

It was found that the total nurse–nurse collaboration level in the sample was 3.09, which is above minimum expected degree of collaboration (2.5). In regard to the subdimensions of the scale, the lowest mean score (2.97) was for problem‐solving and the highest (3.20) was for professionalism. Graduate nurses’ problem‐solving, coordination, professionalism and cooperation skills were found to be higher than those of undergraduate nurses. Nurses employed under continuous employment contracts presented higher collaboration scores than those employed with annual, temporary contracts.

Conclusions

Regarding the results obtained in the study, although the Turkish nurses were collaborating at the minimum expected level, they can collaborate more. Improved collaboration between nurses will increase patient satisfaction and thus will have a favourable impact on patient safety.

Implications for nursing policy and health policy

Nurses who have a bachelor's or higher level degree should be hired, and nurses should be provided with job security in the form of a continuous employment contract to enhance nurse–nurse collaboration.
Oral health‐related quality of life in young Cambodian children: a validation study with a focus on children with cleft lip and/or palate
Authors: Khoun Tola , Malden Penelope E , Turton Bathsheba J
Published: March 2018

Background

Oral Health‐Related Quality‐of‐Life (OHRQoL) measures have been developed and cross‐culturally validated for use in many populations in recent years. Their use in children with cleft lip and/or palate (CLP), however, is not as well established.

Aim

This study aimed to validate twoOHRQoL instruments for use with Cambodian children and to describe theOHRQoL of a sample of Cambodian children withCLP, compared with other children in the same cohort.

Methods

A convenience sample of 133 children aged 2–8 years and their families was recruited from twoNGOhealth services in urban and rural areas of Cambodia. Children were assigned into clinical groups of cleft, malocclusion, severe caries (PUFA≥ 1), and dentine caries.OHRQoL was measured using the Parental‐Caregivers Perception Questionnaire (P‐CPQ‐16) and Family Impact Scale (FIS‐8).

Results

The validity of the instruments was acceptable with an expected gradient in both scale scores being evident across self‐reported oral health ratings. Children withCLPand their families experienced significantly greater impacts onOHRQoL, and the pattern of these impacts differed among the clinical groups.

Conclusions

This study has confirmed the validity of the P‐CPQ‐16 andFIS‐8 for use with young Cambodian children. The results impart advocacy for needed improvements in the care of children withCLPand provide a foundation for future epidemiological research of oral health in Cambodia.
Influenza‐like illness in healthcare personnel at a paediatric referral hospital: Clinical picture and impact of the disease
Authors: Laris González Almudena , Villa Guillén Mónica , López Martínez Briceida , Gamiño Arroyo Ana E. , Moreno Espinosa Sarbelio , Jiménez Juárez Rodolfo Norberto , Sánchez Huerta José Luis , de la Rosa Zamboni Daniela
Published: March 2018

Introduction

Healthcare personnel (HP) are frequently exposed to influenza and can be a source of transmission to patients and other workers, resulting in high‐cost outbreaks for healthcare institutions.

Objectives

To analyse the presentation of HP with influenza‐like illness (ILI) and the differences between individuals with influenza confirmed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and those with a negative test. The secondary objective was to evaluate the duration of symptomatology and work absenteeism as well as the vaccination rate of HP at a paediatric referral hospital.

Methods

A cross‐sectional, descriptive study was conducted at a paediatric referral hospital. Clinical and epidemiological data on HP with ILI were collected between January and April 2016. Nasopharyngeal swab for influenza PCR was obtained from one in every three workers with ILI. Telephone follow‐up was conducted to document duration of symptoms, complications and absenteeism.

Results

A total of 164 ILI episodes were evaluated in 162 HP. A swab was obtained in 59 cases, and influenza was detected in 30 cases. The clinical picture of HP with confirmed influenza was similar to that of HP with a negative PCR. Arthralgia was more common in those with influenza (90% vs 58%), with a tendency towards statistical significance. No HP required hospitalization, and 78.5% were absent from work at least 1 day.

Conclusions

Influenza causes significant morbidity and absenteeism among HP. Influenza infection was confirmed in only half of HP with an ILI on whom a PCR was performed, suggesting that other respiratory viruses can cause a similar pattern.
A simple method of short‐term mechanical reliability prediction for ceramics in reactive environments
Authors: Cook Robert F.
Published: March 2018

A method is demonstrated for prediction of ceramic reliability limited by fracture in reactive environments. The simplicity of the method relies on the ceramic displaying ideal indentation‐strength behavior and on the applied loading leading to short‐term power‐law crack velocity behavior. Reactive failure strength measurements, treating flaw size as a variable and failure time as a constraint in a “pass‐fail” test, enable reliability, including both intrinsic and contact flaws, to be predicted. Little to no computation is required.
Critical loading conditions of amorphization, phase transformation, and dilation cracking in 6H‐silicon carbide
Authors: Wu Zhonghuai , Liu Weidong , Zhang Liangchi
Published: March 2018

Amorphization, phase transformation, and dilation cracking are 3 major deformation/failure mechanisms of monocrystalline 6H‐SiC. This paper studies their critical formation conditions and mechanisms under hydrostatic pressure and uniaxial compression and tension with the aid of large‐scale molecular dynamics simulations. It was found that under hydrostatic pressure the major deformation mechanism is amorphization, that under uniaxial compression the major mechanism turns to phase transformation at low temperature and amorphization at high temperature, and that under uniaxial tension the dominating mechanism becomes dilation cracking. Increasing the temperature reduces the thresholds significantly and brings about a heterogeneous deformation mode. The study further concluded that these deformation mechanisms and their thresholds can be predicted theoretically.
Large recoverable energy density with excellent thermal stability in Mn‐modified NaNbO3‐CaZrO3 lead‐free thin films
Authors: Luo Bingcheng , Dong Huijuan , Wang Danyang , Jin Kexin
Published: March 2018

Effect of Mn dopant on energy storage properties in lead‐free NaNbO3−0.04CaZrO3 (NNCZ) thin films was investigated. The leakage current was largely suppressed, whereas dielectric constant, breakdown fields, and the difference between maximum polarization and remnant polarization were improved significantly by Mn doping, resulting in a large enhancement of energy storage performance. A large recoverable energy storage density of ~19.64 J/cm3 and an excellent thermal stability (from 30 to 160°C) were simultaneously achieved in the NNCZ thin film with 1 mol% Mn addition. Our results ascertain the great potential of NNCZ lead‐free thin films for the applications in energy storage devices over a wide temperature range.
Borate melt structure: Temperature‐dependent B–O bond lengths and coordination numbers from high‐energy X‐ray diffraction
Authors: Alderman Oliver L. G. , Benmore Chris J. , Lin Alex , Tamalonis Anthony , Weber J. K. Richard
Published: March 2018

Borate melts containing <20 mol% Na2O have been studied using high‐energy synchrotron X‐ray diffraction. Temperature dependencies of the mean B–O bond lengths are shown to vary strongly with soda content, by comparison to previous measurements on liquid B2O3 and Na2B4O7. Whereas in liquid B2O3 linear thermal expansion of the BØ3 units is observed, with coefficient αBO = 3.7(2) × 10−6 K−1, this expansion is apparently slightly suppressed in melts containing <20 mol% Na2O, and is dramatically reversed at the diborate composition. These effects are interpreted in terms of changes in the mean B–O coordination number, where the reaction BØ4− + BØ3 ⇌ BØ3 + BØ2O− shifts to the right with increasing temperature. The empirical bond‐valence relationship is used to convert measured bond lengths, rBO, to coordination numbers, nBO, including a correction for the expected thermal expansion. This method is more accurate and precise than direct determination of nBO from peak areas in the radial distribution functions. Gradients of ΔnBO/ΔT = −3.4(3) × 10−4 K−1 close to the diborate composition, and ΔnBO/ΔT = −0.3(1) × 10−4 K−1 for a 13(3) mol% Na2O melt are observed, in reasonable agreement with Raman spectroscopic observations and thermodynamic modeling, with some quantitative differences. These observations go toward explaining isothermal viscosity maxima and changes in fragility across the sodium borate system.
Long‐term efficacy and tolerability of azilsartan medoxomil/chlorthalidone vs olmesartan medoxomil/hydrochlorothiazide in chronic kidney disease
Authors: Bakris George L. , Zhao Lin , Kupfer Stuart , Juhasz Attila , Hisada Michie , Lloyd Eric , Oparil Suzanne
Published: March 2018

An open‐label, long‐term study evaluated safety and tolerability of azilsartan medoxomil/chlorthalidone (AZL‐M/CLD) vs olmesartan/hydrochlorothiazide (OLM/HCTZ) in hypertensive participants with stage 3 chronic kidney disease. Initial therapy was AZL‐M/CLD 20/12.5 mg (n = 77) or OLM/HCTZ 20/12.5 mg (n = 76), but could be up‐titrated (AZL‐M/CLD to 40/25 mg; OLM/HCTZ to 40/25 mg [US] or 20/25 mg [Europe]) with other agents added during weeks 4‐52. Primary endpoint was proportion of participants with ≥ 1 adverse event (AE) through week 52. Baseline demographics were similar. AEs did not differ between groups (88.3%, AZL‐M/CLD vs 76.3%, OLM/HCTZ; P = .058). AZL‐M/CLD showed greater systolic BP reductions after initial dosing (P = .037) but not during long‐term follow‐up (P = .588). A greater proportion of participants up‐titrated to the highest dose with OLM/HCTZ (48.7%) vs AZL‐M/CLD (29.9%) (P = .021) and were taking additional antihypertensive medications (26.3% vs 16.9%). Both AZL‐M/CLD and OLM/HCTZ showed similar efficacy and tolerability.
Glyoxalase 1 sustains the metastatic phenotype of prostate cancer cells via EMT control
Authors: Antognelli Cinzia , Cecchetti Rodolfo , Riuzzi Francesca , Peirce Matthew J. , Talesa Vincenzo N.
Published: March 2018

Metastasis is the primary cause of death in prostate cancer (PCa) patients. Effective therapeutic intervention in metastatic PCa is undermined by our poor understanding of its molecular aetiology. Defining the mechanisms underlying PCa metastasis may lead to insights into how to decrease morbidity and mortality in this disease. Glyoxalase 1 (Glo1) is the detoxification enzyme of methylglyoxal (MG), a potent precursor of advanced glycation end products (AGEs). Hydroimidazolone (MG‐H1) and argpyrimidine (AP) are AGEs originating from MG‐mediated post‐translational modification of proteins at arginine residues. AP is involved in the control of epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT), a crucial determinant of cancer metastasis and invasion, whose regulation mechanisms in malignant cells are still emerging. Here, we uncover a novel mechanism linking Glo1 to the maintenance of the metastatic phenotype of PCa cells by controlling EMT by engaging the tumour suppressor miR‐101, MG‐H1‐AP and TGF‐β1/Smad signalling. Moreover, circulating levels of Glo1, miR‐101, MG‐H1‐AP and TGF‐β1 in patients with metastatic compared with non‐metastatic PCa support our in vitro results, demonstrating their clinical relevance. We suggest that Glo1, together with miR‐101, might be potential therapeutic targets for metastatic PCa, possibly by metformin administration.
Influence of implant neck surface and placement depth on crestal bone changes and soft tissue dimensions around platform‐switched implants: A histologic study in dogs
Authors: Valles Cristina , Rodriguez‐Ciurana Xavier , Muñoz Fernando , Permuy Maria , López‐Alonso Henar , Nart Jose
Published: March 2018

Objectives

To analyse bone remodelling and peri‐implant soft tissues around platform‐switching implants with and without a machined collar placed at different levels in relation to bone crest.

Material and Methods

All mandibular premolars and the first molars were extracted in five dogs. At 6 months, six implants with and without a machined neck (MACH and GBAE implants, respectively) were randomly inserted in each hemimandible positioning the implant–abutment interface in either a supracrestal (+1.5 mm), equicrestal, or subcrestal (−1.5 mm) position. After 6 months, animals were killed for histomorphometric analysis.

Results

When net bone loss (primary outcome variable) was compared between MACH and GBAE groups, the multivariable regression analysis revealed no significant differences between implants inserted at the same vertical position. The dimensions of the peri‐implant mucosa were greater in MACH implants compared with GBAE implants; however, these differences failed to reach statistical significance. Regarding the number of inflammatory cells and collagen fibre orientation, no statistically significant differences were found between MACH and GBAE groups.

Conclusions

The surface treatment of the implant neck does not seem to have an influence on net bone loss, and there were no statistically significant differences in the peri‐implant soft tissues between platform‐switching implants with and without a machined neck.
Method of self‐harm in adolescents and young adults and risk of subsequent suicide
Authors: Beckman Karin , Mittendorfer‐Rutz Ellenor , Waern Margda , Larsson Henrik , Runeson Bo , Dahlin Marie
Published: March 2018

Background

Self‐harm is common in youth and an important risk factor for suicide. Certain self‐harm methods might indicate a higher risk of suicide. The main aim of this study was to determine whether some methods of self‐harm in adolescents (10–17 years) and young adults (18–24 years) are associated with a particularly high risk of suicide. A secondary aim was to ascertain how different self‐harm methods might affect the probability of psychiatric follow‐up.

Method

Five Swedish registers were linked in a national population‐based cohort study. All nonfatal self‐harm events recorded in specialist health care, excluding psychiatry and primary care services, among 10–24 year olds between 2000 and 2009 were included. Methods were classified as poisoning, cutting/piercing, violent method (gassing, hanging, strangulation/suffocation, drowning, jumping and firearms), other and multiple methods. Hazard Ratios (HR) for suicide were calculated in Cox regression models for each method with poisoning as the reference. Odds Ratios (OR) for psychiatric inpatient care were determined in logistic regression models. Analyses were adjusted for important covariates and stratified by age group and treatment setting (inpatient/outpatient).

Results

Among adolescents with initial medical hospitalisation, use of a violent method was associated with a near eightfold increase in HR for suicide compared to self‐poisoning in the adjusted analysis [HR 7.8; 95% confidence interval (CI) 3.2–19.0]. Among hospitalised young adult women, adjusted HRs were elevated fourfold for both cutting [4.0 (1.9–8.8)] and violent methods [3.9 (1.5–10.6)]. Method of self‐harm did not affect suicide risk in young adult men. Adolescents using violent methods had an increased probability of psychiatric inpatient care following initial treatment for self‐harm.

Conclusions

Violent self‐harm requiring medical hospitalisation may signal particularly high risk of future suicide in adolescents (both sexes) and in young adult women. For the latter group this is the case for cutting requiring hospitalisation as well.
Animal behaviour and algal camouflage jointly structure predation and selection
Authors: Start Denon
Published: March 2018

Trait variation can structure interactions between individuals, thus shaping selection. Although antipredator strategies are an important component of many aquatic systems, how multiple antipredator traits interact to influence consumption and selection remains contentious. Here, I use a common larval dragonfly (Epitheca canis) and its predator (Anax junius) to test for the joint effects of activity rate and algal camouflage on predation and survival selection. I found that active and poorly camouflaged Epitheca were more likely to be consumed, and thus, survival selection favoured inactive and well‐camouflaged individuals. Notably, camouflage dampened selection on activity rate, likely by reducing attack rates when Epitheca encountered a predator. Correlational selection is therefore conferred by the ecological interaction of traits, rather than by opposing selection acting on linked traits. I suggest that antipredator traits with different adaptive functions can jointly structure patterns of consumption and selection.
Activation of an Aquareovirus, Chum Salmon Reovirus (CSV), by the CiliatesTetrahymena thermophilaandT. canadensis
Authors: Pinheiro Marcel D.O. , Bols Niels C.
Published: March 2018

For the first time, ciliates have been found to activate rather than inactivate a virus, chum salmon reovirus (CSV). Activation was seen as an increase in viral titre upon incubation ofCSVat 22 °C withTetrahymena canadenesisand two strains ofT. thermophila: wild type (B1975) and a temperature conditional mutant for phagocytosis (NP1). The titre increase was not likely due to replication becauseCSVhad no visible effects on the ciliates and no vertebrate virus has ever been shown unequivocally to replicate in ciliates. When incubated with B1975 andNP1 at 30 °C,CSVwas activated only by B1975. Therefore, activation requiredCSVinternalization because at 30 °C only B1975 exhibited phagocytosis.CSVreplicated in fish cells at 18 to 26 °C but not at 30 °C. Collectively, these observations point toCSVactivation being distinct from replication. Activation is attributed to theCSVcapsid being modified in the ciliate phagosomal‐lysosomal system and released in a more infectious form. When allowed to swim inCSV‐infected fish cell cultures, collected, washed, and transferred to uninfected cultures,T. canadensiscaused aCSVinfection. Overall the results suggest that ciliates could have roles in the environmental dissemination of some fish viral diseases.
Headache and vomiting in a 15‐year‐old boy with hyperimmunoglobulin E syndrome
Authors: Faugno Amy , Yeoh Daniel K , Mcleod Charlie , Arthur Ian , Porter Michelle
Published: March 2018

See Answer
Will Self‐Love Take a Fall? Effects of Top Executives' Positive Self‐Regard on Firm Innovativeness
Authors: Stock Ruth , Groß Matthias , Xin Katherine R.
Published: March 2018

Innovative work behavior has recently attracted considerable interest of both researchers and practitioners. Although extant research provides valuable insights into employees' innovative behavior, knowledge on top executives' innovative behavior, its antecedents, and its outcomes is scarce. Drawing on upper echelons theory, this study considers whether different facets of top executives' positive self‐regard enhance or harm their innovative behavior. The authors theorize that top executives' selfism, hypercore self‐evaluation, and overconfidence—all of which imply a strong positive self‐regard—distinctly determine their willingness and ability to engage in innovative behavior, which in turn is critical for new product program newness. Time‐lagged data from a sample of 214 top executives and 647 matched subordinates reveal that seemingly similar psychological characteristics of top executives affect innovative behavior differently. Selfism and overconfidence negatively influence innovative behavior; hypercore self‐evaluation has a positive effect. A structural mediation analysis confirms a multistage, causal chain that links the three psychological characteristics with product program newness, mediated by top executives' innovative work behavior. Furthermore, moderated mediation analysis suggests that some demographic characteristics of top executives moderate the effects of hypercore self‐evaluation and overconfidence on innovative behavior, whereas the effect of selfism remains unchanged regardless of their tenure or power. Hence, this study provides a more fine‐grained perspective on top executives' positive self‐regard and its contingencies in the innovation context.
The influence of environmental features in the content of mycosporine‐like amino acids in red marine algae along the Brazilian coast
Authors: Briani Bruno , Sissini Marina N. , Lucena Leidson A. , Batista Manuela B. , Costa Iara O. , Nunes José M. C. , Schmitz Caroline , Ramlov Fernanda , Maraschin Marcelo , Korbee Nathalie , Rörig Leonardo , Horta Paulo A. , Figueroa Félix L. , Barufi José B.
Published: March 2018

Mycosporine‐like amino acids (MAA) are ultraviolet screen substances synthesized by marine algae. The physiological function of these substances is related to cellular protection againstUVradiation and as a protective mechanism against oxidative stress. These substances can be found mainly in the ocean, among red seaweeds. Its concentration in organisms has been related to ultraviolet radiation and availability of inorganic nitrogen in the environment. We start our study ofMAAcontent in different species to understand if environmental conditions influence the concentration ofMAAs in red seaweeds. The Brazilian coast presents abiotic factors that interact to create different physical‐chemical features in the environment. We collected 441 samples from 39 species of red seaweed easily found in the intertidal zone, in low tide, during the summer of 2015. The sampling encompassed a latitudinal gradient (3° S to 28°5′ S) at 23 points along the coast. We quantified and identified the content ofMAAs in species through the method of high performance liquid chromatography. We detected for the first time the occurrence ofMAAs in certain species of red algae that have not been reported to containMAAs before. We confirmed that some environmental factors influenced the content ofMAAs. EnhancedMAAcontents, for example, were found in environments with a basicpH, a high ultraviolet index, and high concentrations of phosphate and nitrate. Salinity, dissolved oxygen and variations of sea surface temperature also influenced, in a secondary way,MAAcontent in algae in their natural environments.
Effects of two different feeding positions on physiological characteristics and feeding performance of preterm infants: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Girgin Burcu Aykanat , Gözen Duygu , Karatekin Güner
Published: March 2018

Purpose

The aim of this randomized controlled study was to determine the effect of semielevated side‐lying (ESL) and semielevated supine (ESU) positions, which are used to bottle‐feed preterm infants, on their physiological characteristics and feeding performance.

Design and Methods

The sample consisted of preterm infants who were born in the 31st gestational week and below, and met the inclusion criteria. A randomization was provided in the sample group with a total of 80 infants including 38 infants in the ESL (experimental) group and 42 infants in the ESU (control) group. Both groups were compared in terms of their SpO2 values, heart rates, and feeding performances before, during, and after the feeding. The data were obtained by using a form for infant descriptive characteristics, feeding follow‐up form, a Masimo Radical‐7 pulse oximeter device, and a video camera.

Results

It was determined that the infants in the ESL group had statistically significantly higher SpO2 values (ESL: 96.77 ± 2.51; ESU: 93.48 ± 5.63) and lower heart rates (ESL: 155.87 ± 11.18; ESU: 164.35 ± 6.00) during the feeding compared to the infants in the ESU group (p < .05). Besides, oxygen saturation levels of the infants in the ESU group decreased more (p < .01) and their heart rates increased more (p < .05) during the feeding than those obtained before the feeding compared to the infants in the ESL group.

Practice Implications

The ESL position has a more positive effect on oxygen saturation and heart rate of infants and it is more effective in providing a physiological stabilization during the feeding, compared to the ESU position. According to these results, the ESL position can be recommended for preterm feeding.
Decreased body mass index during treatment with sodium oxybate in narcolepsy type 1
Authors: Schinkelshoek Mink S. , Smolders Isabelle M. , Donjacour Claire E. , van der Meijden Wisse P. , van Zwet Erik W. , Fronczek Rolf , Lammers Gert Jan
Published: March 2018

Narcolepsy type 1 is characterised by an increase in body weight after disease onset, frequently leading to obesity. It was suggested that this weight gain may be counteracted by treatment with sodium oxybate. We here provide longitudinal body mass index data of patients with narcolepsy type 1 after starting treatment with sodium oxybate, compared with patients in whom treatment with modafinil was initiated. Eighty‐one individuals with narcolepsy type 1 fulfilled the entry criteria for this retrospective study: 59 had newly started treatment with sodium oxybate and 22 had newly started modafinil. Gender‐specific differences between both treatment groups were compared using Student's t tests and mixed effect modeling. Patients using sodium oxybate lost weight, with a mean body mass index decrease of 2.56 kg/m2 between the first and last measurement (women; p = .001) and 0.84 kg/m2 (men; p = .006). Patients using modafinil, however, gained weight, with a mean body mass index increase of 0.57 kg/m2 (women; p = .033) and 0.67 kg/m2 (men; p = .122). Medication (p = .006) and baseline body mass index (p = .032) were predictors for body mass index decrease. In conclusion, treatment with sodium oxybate is associated with a body mass index reduction in narcolepsy type 1, whereas modafinil treatment is not. This effect is most pronounced in those who already have a higher baseline body mass index.
Bible, guns and land: sovereignty and nationalism amongst the Nagas of India
Authors: Longkumer Arkotong
Published: March 2018

This paper will argue that to understand Naga sovereignty, one must take into account the intimate connection between Christianity and nationalism. This relationship is centred on the idea of ‘Nagaland for Christ’, a central slogan (also seen as a covenant) for all Naga nationalist groups. It suggests that God is the primary agent in sovereignty, and that the land is connected with the idea of Nagaland for Christ. I argue that national territory is not an object or a place that can be fixed in time, but rather an act of narration and imagination with the power to shape where it belongs. I will make the case that we need to rethink modular forms of sovereignty that are based on a strong national state. Instead, it would be more useful to think about sovereign territories as the organisation of space, or territoriality (Sack 1986). Robert Sack argues that territoriality is ‘intimately related to how people use the land’, how they ‘organize themselves in space and how they give meaning to place’ (Sack 1986: 2). If history has shown us that ascertaining the precise territorial lines of national units are always a challenge, it is more helpful to try and understand how people give meaning to place regardless of boundaries.
Methods in renal research: Measurement of autophagic flux in the renal cortex ex vivo
Authors: Higgins Gavin C. , Nguyen Tuong‐Vi , Ramm Georg , Coughlan Melinda T.
Published: March 2018

Summary at a Glance

Autophagy is an important mechanism that maintains cell function. Alterations in autophagy occur in many renal diseases. This Methods in Renal Research article describes a new ex vivo approach to measure autophagic flux in the renal cortex. Will provide new insights into how autophagy is modified in kidney disease.
Telediagnosis of oral lesions in primary care: The EstomatoNet Program
Authors: Carrard VC , Roxo Gonçalves M , Rodriguez Strey J , Pilz C , Martins MAT , Martins MD , Schmitz CA , Dal Moro RG , D'Ávila OP , Rados DRV , Harzheim E , Gonçalves MR
Published: March 2018

Objective

The diagnosis of oral lesions is often challenging for primary healthcare providers, which explains the high number of referrals to specialist care. This favors increases in waiting lines and delays in diagnosis, contributing to high mortality rates from oral cancer. This study aimed to summarize the experience of the EstomatoNet, a telediagnosis program catering to primary care dentists and physicians from southern Brazil.

Study design

This exploratory study included all queries received by EstomatoNet from June 2015 to December 2016. Health providers (71 dentists and 18 physicians from primary care) submitted requests including clinical information and photographs of oral lesions by means of a cloud‐based platform. Specialized oral medicine teleconsultants received the data, conveyed a diagnostic hypothesis, and conveyed management recommendations.

Results

Actinic cheilitis (n = 41, 15.8%), squamous cell carcinoma (n = 22, 8.5%), and inflammatory hyperplasia (21, 8.1%) were the most frequent diagnoses. Teleconsultants recommended referral to specialists in 42.9% of the cases, total biopsy in 23.6%, and follow‐up in 16.2%. After the EstomatoNet use, the intention to refer the patients to face‐to‐face consultation reduced from 96.9% to 35.1%.

Conclusion

Telediagnosis for oral lesions is feasible and has potential to improve the quality of primary health care by bridging the gap between primary and specialized health care.
Formal institutions, informal institutions, and red tape: A comparative study
Authors: Kaufmann Wesley , Hooghiemstra Reggy , Feeney Mary K.
Published: March 2018

Firms across the globe are affected by red tape, but there is little academic research on how country‐level institutions shape red tape perceptions. Drawing on institutional theory, we argue that a variety of formal and informal country‐level institutions affect perceptions of red tape in the private sector. We test our hypotheses using six data sources, including the World Economic Forum and the World Bank. Our results indicate that red tape is weakly associated with a country's level of formalization and rule enforcement effectiveness and more prevalent in federal as opposed to unitary states. As for informal institutions, we find that red tape perceptions are more pronounced in countries with an increased conservative political ideology, higher levels of corruption, and cultures that emphasize individualism and uncertainty avoidance. We conclude with a discussion of the implications for theory and practice.