bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The implicit soul: Factors between the representation of death and dehumanization of patients
Authors: Castro Aurelio , Testoni Ines , Zamperini Adriano , Ronconi Lucia , Galantin Laura Padmah , Caraceni Augusto
Published: June 2019

Spiritual approaches in healthcare settings proved effective in reducing the negative outcomes of dehumanization processes impacting health professionals and patients. Although previous literature focused on explicit measures of spirituality, the present research explored the role of implicit components of spirituality and their effects on the humanization of patients in two healthcare contexts. Professionals from hospices and nursing homes completed an implicit task to assess whether the diverse representation of death as physical or spiritual led to perceive patients with more uniquely human traits. Results showed that only for hospice participants, implicit and explicit spirituality predicts more humanness attribution to patients. This article discusses palliative care models and death education as a resource for reducing dehumanization.
In vitro (anti-alpha-glucosidase) activity and in vivo anti-diabetic activity of Androsace foliosa (common rock jasmine) in alloxan-induced diabetic BALB/c mice
Authors: Zaheer Jawad , Najam-Us-Saqib Qazi , Qamar Misba , Akram Muhammad
Published: June 2019

Androsace foliosa syn. Androsace sarmentosa (botanical name of common rock jasmine) ( Primulaceae) is used in the treatment various disorders. The aim of this study is to evaluate in vitro anti-diabetic activity of crude methanolic extract of leaves and roots of A. foliosa by anti -alpha-glucosidase (α-Glc) and in vivo anti-diabetic activity of n-hexane fraction on alloxan-induced diabetic mice. Results of in vitro anti-diabetic (α-Glc) activity showed that n-hexane leaves fraction was most potent among all the fractions and showed IC50 (half maximal inhibitory concentration) value of 64.91 ± 0.16 µg and % inhibition of 89.35 ± 0.45, comparable to that of standard acarbose. In vivo n-hexane leaves fraction decreases blood glucose level and reduces body weight similar to that of standard drug glibenclamide. Based on the conclusion of both in vitro and in vivo activities, it can be accomplished that the plant A. foliosa acquires noteworthy anti-diabetic action and can be used to treat diabetes mellitus type II and to reduce body weight.
The Predictive Value of the Load Sharing Classification Concerning Sagittal Collapse and Posterior Instrumentation Failure: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Stam Wessel T. , Deunk Jaap , Elzinga Matthijs J. , Bloemers Frank W. , Giannakopoulos Georgios F.
Published: June 2019

Study design:

Systematic review.

Objective:

In 1994, the Load Sharing Classification (LSC) was introduced to aid the choice of surgical treatment of thoracolumbar spine fractures. Since that time this classification system has been commonly used in the field of spine surgery. However, current literature varies regarding its use and predictive value in relation to implant failure and sagittal collapse. The objective of this study is to assess the predictive value of the LSC concerning the need for anterior stabilization to prevent sagittal collapse and posterior instrumentation failure.

Methods:

An electronic search of PubMed, Medline, Embase, and the Cochrane Library was performed. Inclusion criteria were (1) cohort or clinical trial (2) including patients with thoracolumbar burst fractures (3) whose severity of the fractured vertebrae was assessed by the LSC.

Results:

Five thousand eighty-two articles have been identified, of which 21 articles were included for this review. Twelve studies reported no correlation between the LSC and sagittal collapse or instrumentation failure in patients treated with short-segment posterior instrumentation (SSPI). Seven articles found no significant relation; 5 articles found no instrumentation failure at all. The remaining 9 articles experienced failure in patients with a high LSC or recommended a different surgical technique.

Conclusions:

Although the LSC was originally developed to predict the need for anterior stabilization in addition to SSPI, many studies show that SSPI only can be sufficient in treating thoracolumbar fractures regardless of the LSC. The LSC might have lost its value in predicting sagittal collapse and posterior instrumentation failure.
Functional outcome and quality of life in patients with hip fracture after total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Koh Don Thong Siang , Chen Jerry Yongqiang , Yew Andy Khye Soon , Chong Hwei Chi , Hao Ying , Pang Hee Nee , Tay Darren Keng Jin , Chia Shi-Lu , Lo Ngai Nung , Yeo Seng Jin
Published: June 2019

Introduction:

Hip fractures are a cause of significant morbidity. While rare, ipsilateral hip fractures within 12 months after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) can negatively affect the functional outcome and the quality of life for patients who have had TKA. This aim of this study is to investigate (1) the incidence of hip fracture within 12 months after TKA and (2) the influence of hip fracture after TKA on functional outcome and quality of life in patients.

Methods:

Between March 1999 and February 2012, 25 patients who sustained an ipsilateral hip fracture within 12 months after TKA were included in this study. A propensity score matching algorithm was used to select a 1:3 control group without hip fracture. All patients were assessed using the Oxford Knee Score (OKS), Knee Society Function Score (KSFS), Knee Society Knee Score (KSKS), Physical Component Score (PCS) and Mental Component Score (MCS) of SF-36®.

Results:

The incidence of hip fracture was 0.16% among male patients and 0.20% for female patients. At 24 months after TKA, the OKS was 36 ± 7 in the hip fracture group versus 41 ± 5 in the control group ( p = 0.003). The KSFS was 50 ± 24 in the hip fracture group versus 68 ± 21 in the control group ( p = 0.001), while the KSKS was 83 ± 12 and 87 ± 8, respectively ( p = 0.166). The PCS was 37 ± 12 in the hip fracture group versus 47 ± 11 in the control group ( p < 0.001), while the MCS was 55 ± 10 and 54 ± 11, respectively ( p = 0.664).

Conclusion:

Although hip fracture during the rehabilitation period after TKA is uncommon, these patients have poorer functional outcome and quality of life. We recommend additional caution against hip fracture after TKA.
Radiological and functional outcomes of ultrasound-guided PRP injections in intrasubstance meniscal degenerations
Authors: Özyalvaç Osman Nuri , Tüzüner Tolga , Gürpinar Tahsin , Obut Abdullah , Acar Barış , Akman Yunus Emre
Published: June 2019

Aim:

This retrospective study is aimed to analyze the effect of ultrasound-guided platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections on grade 2 intrasubstance meniscal degenerations (IMDs).

Materials and Methods:

Fifteen patients who underwent PRP injections for symptomatic grade 2 meniscal lesions were included in the study. All injections were performed with ultrasound in the degenerated menisci. Patients were evaluated with Lysholm score and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) before the injection and after a mean of 32-month follow-up. T2-weighted MRI images were evaluated on sagittal by two authors as double-blind.

Results:

Lysholm score was found to be statistically significantly increased, and in 67% of the patients, grade 2 degenerations were improved to grade 1.

Conclusion:

Intra-meniscal PRP injection under ultrasonography guidance provides good functional scores and radiological improvement in the patients with IMD.
Two Cases of Guillain-Barré Syndrome Variants Presenting With Dysautonomia
Authors: Abdel-Mannan Omar , D’Argenzio Luigi , Pitt Matthew , D’Arco Felice , Bhate Sanjay , Hacohen Yael , Kaliakatsos Marios
Published: June 2019

We describe 2 pediatric cases presenting with posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome secondary to autonomic dysfunction preceding the onset of motor symptoms in Guillain-Barré syndrome variants. Patient 1 presented acutely with encephalopathy, cerebellar signs, hypertension, lower limb weakness, and respiratory decompensation. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) brain showed occipital lesions consistent with posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome. Nerve conduction studies were consistent with Miller-Fisher syndrome. After intravenous immunoglobulin and plasmapheresis, he improved clinically with radiological resolution. Patient 2 presented with headache, leg pain, seizures, and significant hypertension. Brain MRI was normal but spine MRI revealed enhancement of the cauda equina ventral nerve roots. She was areflexic with lower limb weakness a few days after intensive care unit admission and made a significant improvement after treatment with intravenous immunoglobulin. In children presenting with posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome in the absent of other causes of primary hypertension, Guillain-Barré syndrome variants are an important differential etiology, presenting with autonomic dysfunction, even before signs of motor weakness become evident.
Technology as a Lever for Adolescent Writing
Authors: Collins Penelope , Tate Tamara Powell , Warschauer Mark
Published: June 2019

Despite needing this critical skill for college and career readiness, American adolescents are struggling to develop effective writing. In today’s schools and workplaces, much of that writing uses digital tools. Integrating technology in secondary schools can help improve adolescent writing within initiatives focused on the pedagogy of writing. These initiatives would provide teachers with technical support so they may focus on instruction. Professional development would emphasize how to leverage digital tools to deliver evidence-based writing instruction. Students gain most when provided systematic, explicit instruction in scientifically based strategies for writing and the writing process, as well as how to make effective use of digital tools as part of the writing process.
If We Don’t Look, We Won’t See: Measuring Language Development to Inform Literacy Instruction
Authors: Adlof Suzanne M. , Hogan Tiffany P.
Published: June 2019

Oral language abilities enable children to learn to read, and they predict future academic achievement and life outcomes. However, children with language impairment frequently go unidentified because schools do not systematically measure oral language development. Given that identification paves the way for treatment, schools should increase attention to oral language development, particularly within response to intervention (RTI) frameworks, which aim to prevent learning disabilities by identifying and intervening at early stages. Formal schooling should address language comprehension (in addition to word reading) to ensure an adequate foundation for future reading comprehension. In support, we overview the developmental relations between oral language abilities and reading skills, review current school-based assessment frameworks, and discuss how these frameworks can include language assessments. Measuring language skills early and often benefits not only those who have language impairment but also all children, as it documents language variability to inform differentiated instruction.
Fostering Undergraduate Research Through Insider Inquiry: Exploiting Student Work Experiences
Authors: Coghlan David
Published: June 2019

Research is typically taught to undergraduates as an analytic activity with a focus on engaging with externalized data. Rarely are undergraduates taught to inquire into settings and situations where they are close to the data and implicated in the setting. Exploring Organizational Experiences is a final-year undergraduate business course that provides an alternative research paradigm that focuses on developing insider inquiry skills. Participants inquire critically into organizational dynamics from the perspective of being an insider-participant and practice a general empirical method that enables them to learn critical insider research skills.
Additive manufacturing as an emerging technology for fabrication of microelectromechanical systems (MEMS)
Authors: Kumar Sanjay , Bhushan Pulak , Pandey Mohit , Bhattacharya Shantanu
Published: June 2019

The recent success of additive manufacturing processes (also called, 3D printing) in the manufacturing sector has led to a shift in the focus from simple prototyping to real production-grade technology. The enhanced capabilities of 3D printing processes to build intricate geometric shapes with high precision and resolution have led to their increased use in fabrication of microelectromechanical systems (MEMS). The 3D printing technology has offered tremendous flexibility to users for fabricating custom-built components. Over the past few decades, different types of 3D printing technologies have been developed. This article provides a comprehensive review of the recent developments and significant achievements in most widely used 3D printing technologies for MEMS fabrication, their working methodology, advantages, limitations, and potential applications. Furthermore, some of the emerging hybrid 3D printing technologies are discussed, and the current challenges associated with the 3D printing processes are addressed. Finally, future directions for process improvements in 3D printing techniques are presented.
Biosensors on chip: A critical review from an aspect of micro/nanoscales
Authors: Bhatt Geeta , Bhattacharya Shantanu
Published: June 2019

Biosensors are a very well cherished research topic and have found an inseparable status from clinical diagnostics in specific and society at large. As the name suggests, biosensors or biological sensors are devices which detect the presence of biological entities or their constituents and derivatives. The field started decades ago and has matured quite well since its inception. The most important performance factors that are associated with biosensors are sensitivity, specificity, and limit of detection. The remaining efforts of the biosensor research domain focus on miniaturization aspects of the sensors. The growing advancements in this field have evolved the technology of biosensors to cater to full-scale diagnosis on microchips, bedside diagnostics, reduced cost, and increased speed of diagnostics. Biosensors are characterized through many different aspects; for example, one way is to classify them on the basis of the type of bio-recognition step that they would utilize or another way can be based on the type of detection scheme that they may integrate, etc. Depending on the bio-recognition layer’s properties, biosensors can be cell based, nucleic acid probe based, antibody/antigen based, or aptamer based, while depending on the type of detection scheme, biosensors can be viewed as colorimetric sensors, optical sensors, electrochemical sensors, mechanical sensors, etc. There are some other parallel areas of research like microfluidics and microelectromechanical systems where one of the main applications lies in the biosensor domain. This review article discusses the various aspects of biosensors, from their design, realization, to testing, along with various detection strategies. The assembly includes fabrication strategies particularly for microchip technology-based biosensing solutions, microchannels, integration to microfluidics, etc., while categorization deals with various kinds and applications of different biosensors.
Sexual Dysfunction in Persons With Substance Use Disorders
Authors: Ghadigaonkar Deepak S. , Murthy Pratima
Published: June 2019

Sexual dysfunction is commonly associated with the use of substances, in both men and women. This area requires prominent attention, particularly as the use of substances is often with the expectancy of improving an underlying sexual dysfunction or with a positive expectancy of enhancing sexual function.

The chronic use of substances has a negative impact on sexual function and causes various kinds of sexual dysfunction in both men and women. In this narrative review, we look at the effect of various substances of abuse on sexual functioning and discuss management strategies in such situations.
Deep Infiltrating Endometriosis: Making the Diagnosis
Authors: Levine Elliot M. , Fernandez Carlos M. , Pham Maggie , Shashoua Abraham , Locher Stephen
Published: June 2019

A case is described of a patient who presented with signs and symptoms suggestive of endometriosis. She underwent a diagnostic laparoscopy, which failed to identify any features of endometriosis. The patient subsequently underwent a 3D transvaginal sonogram that demonstrated evidence of a deep infiltrating endometriosis, affecting the right uterosacral ligament. This case demonstrates the diagnostic ability of 3D transvaginal sonography and, at the same time, the potential deficiency of laparoscopy to make the diagnosis of deep infiltrating endometriosis.
Highlights of thoracic oncology from the 2018 ERS International Congress
Authors: Ntontsi Polyxeni , Bostantzoglou Clementine , Blum Torsten Gerriet
Published: June 2019

Lung cancer is a substantial global burden for patients, healthcare professionals and healthcare systems. Multiple scientific international and national initiatives are tackling the various problems associated with this disease, which is currently the leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. During the European Respiratory Society International Congress 2018 in Paris, France, lung cancer experts gathered to present the most recent aspects of lung cancer care, and discuss the need for joint initiatives and an international lung cancer alliance, aiming to provide high quality, accessible health care. The US experience and American Lung Association/American Thoracic Society implementation guide on lung cancer screening programmes, the key features of optimising and implementing such programmes, the challenges of treatment in the subset of patients where lung cancer is combined with interstitial lung disease, and novel lung cancer biomarkers and immunotherapy were among the most anticipated issues covered during the congress.
Presumptive primary intrathoracic mast cell tumours in two dogs
Authors: Cartagena-Albertus Juan Carlos , Moise Antoaneta , Moya-García Sergio , Cámara-Fernández Nora , Montoya-Alonso Jose Alberto
Published: June 2019

Background

Mast cell tumours are the most common cutaneous neoplasms in dogs. Other primary sites include visceral organs, such as the gastrointestinal tract, liver, or spleen,and the oral cavity. Frequent metastatic sites include the local lymph nodes, skin, spleen, liver and bone marrow. The thorax is rarely affected by metastatic disease and no such cases have been reported in dogs.

Mast cell tumours are usually not considered as a differential diagnosis for lung and intrathoracic chest wall masses in dogs. Chest wall tumours can be primary tumours of the ribs and sternum, an invasion of adjacent tumours into the chest wall, and metastasis from distant tumours.

Cases presentation

A German Shepherd dog presented with a history of persistent cough and a large mass involving the thoracic wall and a small round pulmonary mass. The dog had a history of mammary tumours that were surgically excised. Thoracoscopy revealed a thoracic wall mass involving the internal intercostal muscle and a small mass in the left cranial lung lobe. Cytology and histopathology of the intrathoracic mass confirmed the large mass as a mast cell tumour and the small mass as a carcinoma. Cytology of the sternal lymph nodes showed no involvement. The dog received toceranib for 3 months, which failed to alleviate persistent cough. Radiology indicated that the large mass had a partial response to toceranib. The dog was euthanasied.

A Maltese dog presented with a history of chronic regurgitation and cough,and a large mass involving the left caudal lung lobe. Cytology and histopathology of mass confirmed a mast cell tumour. The dog received toceranib for 2 months. Radiology indicated that the large mass had no response to toceranib. The dog was euthanasied. Confirmation of lungs mast cell tumour and the absence of any other Mast cell tumour was achieved by postmortem examination.

Conclusions

The cases discussed are two unusual presentations of intrathoracic mast cell tumours, in the absence of cutaneous mast cell tumours, in dogs.
Perceptions and observations of shared decision making during pediatric otolaryngology surgical consultations
Authors: Evong Yolanda , Chorney Jill , Ungar Gilanders , Hong Paul
Published: June 2019

Objective

Increased parental involvement in the decision-making process when considering elective surgeries for their children, termed shared decision-making (SDM), may lead to positive outcomes. The objective of this study was to describe perceived and observed levels of SDM during pediatric otolaryngology consultations.

Methods

One hundred and seventeen parents and their children undergoing elective surgical consultations were prospectively enrolled. The visits were videotaped and coded using the Observing Patient Involvement (OPTION) scale. Following the encounter, all participants completed a questionnaire that measured perceived levels of SDM (SDM-Q-9). Surgeons also completed a similar questionnaire (SDM-Q-Doc). Spearman's correlation coefficient was determined to measure the associations between observed and perceived levels of SDM.

Results

The overall OPTION scores were low (median score of 14 out of 48) and not significantly correlated with perceived levels of SDM (SDM-Q-9, p = 0.415; SDM-Q-Doc, p = 0.236), surgery type ( p = 0.197), or patient demographic factors. The OPTION scores were positively correlated with consultation length ( p < 0.001). There was great variability in the level to which each OPTION items were observed during the consultation (not present in any visits to present in 96.6% of the visits).

Conclusions

Observed levels of SDM were consistently low, but higher levels were observed when the surgeon spent more time during the consultation. Observed levels of SDM did not match perceived levels of SDM, which were consistently rated higher by both caregivers and surgeons.
Therapeutic Implication of Genomic Landscape of Adult Metastatic Sarcoma
Authors: Feng Xiaolan , Pleasance Erin , Zhao Eric Y. , Ng Tony , Grewal Jasleen K. , Mohammad Nissreen , Taylor Sara K. , Simmons Christine , Srikanthan Amirrtha , Rassekh S. Rod , Deyell Rebecca , Rauw Jennifer , Knowling Meg , Khoo Kong , Lee Ursula , Noonan Krista , Hart Jason , Tonseth R. Petter , Shen Yaoqing , Titmuss Emma , Jones Martin , Bonakdar Melika , Reisle Caralyn , Taylor Greg A. , Chan Simon , Mungall Karen , Chuah Eric , Zhao Yongjun , Mungall Andrew , Moore Richard , Lim Howard , Renouf Daniel J. , Gelmon Karen , Yip Stephen , Jones Steven J.M. , Marra Marco , Laskin Janessa
Published: June 2019

PURPOSE

This study investigated therapeutic potential of integrated genome and transcriptome profiling of metastatic sarcoma, a rare but extremely heterogeneous group of aggressive mesenchymal malignancies with few systemic therapeutic options.

METHODS

Forty-three adult patients with advanced or metastatic non-GI stromal tumor sarcomas of various histology subtypes who were enrolled in the Personalized OncoGenomics program at BC Cancer were included in this study. Fresh tumor tissues along with blood samples underwent whole-genome and transcriptome sequencing.

RESULTS

The most frequent genomic alterations in this cohort are large-scale structural variation and somatic copy number variation. Outlier RNA expression as well as somatic copy number variations, structural variations, and small mutations together suggest the presence of one or more potential therapeutic targets in the majority of patients in our cohort. Point mutations or deletions in known targetable cancer genes are rare; for example, tuberous sclerosis complex 2 provides a rationale for targeting the mammalian target of rapamycin pathway, resulting in a few patients with exceptional clinical benefit from everolimus. In addition, we observed recurrent 17p11-12 amplifications, which seem to be a sarcoma-specific event. This may suggest that this region harbors an oncogene(s) that is significant for sarcoma tumorigenesis. Furthermore, some sarcoma tumors carrying a distinct mutational signature suggestive of homologous recombination deficiency seem to demonstrate sensitivity to double-strand DNA–damaging agents.

CONCLUSION

Integrated large-scale genomic analysis may provide insights into potential therapeutic targets as well as novel biologic features of metastatic sarcomas that could fuel future experimental and clinical research and help design biomarker-driven basket clinical trials for novel therapeutic strategies.
Thyroid Cancer Patients With No Evidence of Disease: The Need for Repeat Neck Ultrasound
Authors: Grani Giorgio , Ramundo Valeria , Falcone Rosa , Lamartina Livia , Montesano Teresa , Biffoni Marco , Giacomelli Laura , Sponziello Marialuisa , Verrienti Antonella , Schlumberger Martin , Filetti Sebastiano , Durante Cosimo
Published: June 2019

Context

Ultrasonography (US) is considered the most sensitive tool for imaging persistent or recurrent papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) in the neck.

Objective

To clarify the usefulness of routine neck US in low- and intermediate-risk patients with PTC with no evidence of disease 1 year after thyroidectomy.

Design

Retrospective analysis of prospectively recorded data.

Setting

Academic center.

Patients

Two hundred twenty-six patients with PTC with sonographically normal neck lymph nodes and unstimulated serum thyroglobulin (Tg) levels that were either undetectable (<0.20 ng/mL) or low (0.21 to 0.99 ng/mL) at the 1-year evaluation.

Interventions

Yearly assessment: unstimulated serum Tg level, anti-Tg-antibody (TgAb) titer, TSH levels, and ultrasound examination of neck lymph nodes.

Main Outcome Measures

Rates of ultrasonographic lymph node abnormalities at the 3-year and last follow-up visits.

Results

In patients with an undetectable Tg level at the 1-year evaluation, sonographically suspicious neck lymph nodes were found in 1.2% of patients at 3 years and in 1.8% at the last visit [negative predictive values (NPVs) of 1-year Tg < 0.2 ng/mL: 98.8% (95% CI 95.8% to 99.9%) and 98.2% (95% to 99.6%), respectively]. Similar NPVs emerged for low detectable 1-year Tg levels [98.2% (90.3% to 99.9%) and 94.5% (84.9% to 98.9%) at the 3-year and last visits, respectively]. Seventy-five percent of the nodal lesions were likely false positive; none required treatment.

Conclusions

Low- and intermediate-risk patients with PTC with negative ultrasound findings and unstimulated Tg levels <1 ng/mL at the 1-year evaluation can be safely followed with clinical assessments and unstimulated serum Tg determinations. Neck US might be repeated if TgAb titers rise, or unstimulated Tg levels exceed 1 ng/mL.
Methylphenidate and Morphine Combination Therapy in a Rat Model of Chronic Pain
Authors: You Zerong , Ding Weihua , Doheny Jason T. , Shen Shiqian , Yang Jinsheng , Yang Liuyue , Chen Lucy , Zhu Shengmei , Mao Jianren
Published: June 2019

BACKGROUND:

The incremental dose of opioids used in chronic pain management often leads to a reduced opioid analgesic effect, opioid misuse, and addiction. Central dopamine (DA) dysfunction contributes to the chronicity of pain and a decreased opioid analgesic effect. Methylphenidate (MPH/Ritalin) enhances central DA function by inhibiting DA reuptake. In this study, we used a rat model of chronic pain to examine whether combination of MPH with morphine (MOR) would improve the MOR analgesic effect under a chronic pain condition.

METHODS:

Tibiotarsal joint Complete Freund’s Adjuvant (CFA) injection in rats was utilized to induce chronic nociception. The analgesic effect of low-dose MPH (0.25 mg/kg), low-dose MOR (2.5 mg/kg), and their combination was examined in CFA rats. Nociceptive behavior was assessed by von Frey test. Conditioned place preference (CPP) and open field tests (OFTs) were used to examine the rewarding behavior and locomotor activity in rats, respectively.

RESULTS:

Our findings are as follows: (1) in CFA rats with chronic pain, 2.5 mg/kg of MOR had less analgesic effect than 10 mg/kg of MOR at 28 days after injury (95% confidence intervals [CIs] for difference of means of von Frey threshold in gram: −11.9 [−6.5 to −17.3]); (2) in the 1-hour time window of 30–90 minutes after injection, the combination of MPH (0.25 mg/kg) with MOR (2.5 mg/kg) increased synergistically and prolonged the analgesic effect in CFA rats as compared with MPH or MOR alone (P = .01 for MPH by MOR interaction, and 95% CIs for difference of means of von Frey threshold in gram: 3.3 [1.37–6.12] for the combination versus MPH and 3.2 [1.35–5.74] for the combination versus MOR); (3) at the low dose (0.25 mg/kg), MPH did not increase locomotor activity (MOR + MPH versus MOR, P = .13) nor significantly enhanced MOR reward behavior (MOR + MPH versus MOR, P = .63) in CFA rats.

CONCLUSIONS:

Our data suggest that a combination therapy using low-dose MPH and MOR may produce a MOR-sparing effect in chronic pain management.
Anesthesia Residency Training in Airway Management: A Competency-Based Model Curriculum
Authors: Galway Ursula A. , Straker Tracey , Foley Lorraine J. , Aziz Michael , Woodworth Glenn
Published: June 2019

The Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) is moving toward competency-based medical education. This educational framework requires the description of educational outcomes based on the knowledge, skills, and behaviors expected of competent trainees. An assessment program is essential to provide formative feedback to trainees as they progress to competency in each outcome. This article describes the development of 2 model curricula for airway management training (basic and advanced) using a competency-based framework.
Proximity labeling reveals novel interactomes in live Drosophila tissue
Authors: Mannix Katelynn M. , Starble Rebecca M. , Kaufman Ronit S. , Cooley Lynn
Published: June 2019

Gametogenesis is dependent on intercellular communication facilitated by stable intercellular bridges connecting developing germ cells. During Drosophila oogenesis, intercellular bridges (referred to as ring canals; RCs) have a dynamic actin cytoskeleton that drives their expansion to a diameter of 10 μm. Although multiple proteins have been identified as components of RCs, we lack a basic understanding of how RC proteins interact together to form and regulate the RC cytoskeleton. Thus, here, we optimized a procedure for proximity-dependent biotinylation in live tissue using the APEX enzyme to interrogate the RC interactome. APEX was fused to four different RC components (RC-APEX baits) and 55 unique high-confidence prey were identified. The RC-APEX baits produced almost entirely distinct interactomes that included both known RC proteins and uncharacterized proteins. A proximity ligation assay was used to validate close-proximity interactions between the RC-APEX baits and their respective prey. Furthermore, an RNA interference screen revealed functional roles for several high-confidence prey genes in RC biology. These findings highlight the utility of enzyme-catalyzed proximity labeling for protein interactome analysis in live tissue and expand our understanding of RC biology.
Conserved properties of genetic architecture of renal and fat transcriptomes in rat models of insulin resistance
Authors: Otto Georg W. , Kaisaki Pamela J. , Brial Francois , Le Lay Aurélie , Cazier Jean-Baptiste , Mott Richard , Gauguier Dominique
Published: June 2019

To define renal molecular mechanisms that are affected by permanent hyperglycaemia and might promote phenotypes relevant to diabetic nephropathy, we carried out linkage analysis of genome-wide gene transcription in the kidneys of F2 offspring from the Goto-Kakizaki (GK) rat model of type 2 diabetes and normoglycaemic Brown Norway (BN) rats. We mapped 2526 statistically significant expression quantitative trait loci (eQTLs) in the cross. More than 40% of eQTLs mapped in the close vicinity of the linked transcripts, underlying possible cis-regulatory mechanisms of gene expression. We identified eQTL hotspots on chromosomes 5 and 9 regulating the expression of 80-165 genes, sex or cross direction effects, and enriched metabolic and immunological processes by segregating GK alleles. Comparative analysis with adipose tissue eQTLs in the same cross showed that 496 eQTLs, in addition to the top enriched biological pathways, are conserved in the two tissues. Extensive similarities in eQTLs mapped in the GK rat and in the spontaneously hypertensive rat (SHR) suggest a common aetiology of disease phenotypes common to the two strains, including insulin resistance, which is a prominent pathophysiological feature in both GK rats and SHRs. Our data shed light on shared and tissue-specific molecular mechanisms that might underlie aetiological aspects of insulin resistance in the context of spontaneously occurring hyperglycaemia and hypertension.
Subtle short-term physiological costs of an experimental augmentation of fleas in wild Columbian ground squirrels
Authors: Roth Jeffrey D. , Dobson F. Stephen , Criscuolo François , Uhlrich Pierre , Zahariev Alexandre , Bergouignan Audrey , Viblanc Vincent A.
Published: June 2019

Parasites affect many aspects of host physiology and behavior, and thus are generally thought to negatively impact host fitness. However, changes in form of short-term parasite effects on host physiological markers have generally been overlooked in favor of fitness measures. Here, we studied flea (Oropsylla idahoensis and Oropsylla opisocroistis tuberculata) parasitism on a natural population of Columbian ground squirrels (Urocitellus columbianus) in Sheep River Provincial Park, AB, Canada. Fleas were experimentally added to adult female U. columbianus at physiologically demanding times, including birth, lactation and weaning of their young. The body mass of adult females, as well as their oxidative stress and immunity were recorded multiple times over the active season under flea-augmented and control conditions. We also measured the prevalence of an internal parasite (Trypanosoma otospermophili). Doubly labeled water (DLW) was intra-peritoneally injected at peak lactation to examine energy expenditure. Effects of parasites on oxidative stress were only observed after offspring were weaned. There was no direct effect of experimentally heightened flea prevalence on energy use. A short-term 24 h mass loss (−17 g) was detected briefly after parasite addition, likely due to U. columbianus preferentially allocating time for grooming. Our parasite augmentation did not strongly affect hosts and suggested that short-term physiological effects were unlikely to culminate in long-term fitness consequences. Columbian ground squirrels appear to rapidly manage parasite costs, probably through grooming.
A systematic review and critical evaluation of immunohistochemical associations in hidradenitis suppurativa
Authors: Frew John W. , Hawkes Jason E. , Krueger James G.
Published: June 2019

Background: Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic inflammatory disease with significant morbidity and impact on quality of life. Our understanding of the pathophysiology is incomplete, impairing efforts to develop novel therapeutic targets. Immunohistochemistry studies have produced conflicting results and no systematic evaluation of study methods and results has been undertaken to date.

Methods: This systematic review aimed to collate and describe all reports of immunohistochemical staining in HS. This systematic review was registered with PROSPERO and conducted in line with the PRISMA reporting guidelines. Potential bias was assessed using the NIH Criteria and antibodies used across various studies were tabulated and compared.

Results: A total of 22 articles were identified describing results from 494 HS patients and 168 controls. 87 unique immunohistochemical targets were identified. The overall quality of studies was sub-optimal with staining intensity confounded by active treatment. Conflicting data was identified and able to be reconciled through critical evaluation of the study methodology.

Conclusions: Keratinocyte hyperplasia with loss of cytokeratin markers co-localizes with inflammation comprising of dendritic Cells, T-lymphocytes and macrophages, which are known to play central roles in inflammation in HS. Primary follicular occlusion as a pathogenic paradigm and the principal driver of HS is unclear based upon the findings of this review. Inflammation as a primary driver of disease with secondary hyperkeratosis and follicular occlusion is more consistent with the current published data.
HIV prevalence correlated with circumcision prevalence and high-risk sexual behavior in India's states: an ecological study
Authors: Kenyon Chris R.
Published: June 2019

Background:HIV prevalence varies between 0% and 1.6% in India's states. The factors underpinning this variation are poorly defined.

Methods:We evaluated the relationship between HIV prevalence by state and a range of risk factors in the Indian 2015 National Family Health Survey. Pearson’s correlation was used to assess the relationship between HIV prevalence and each variable. The prevalence of each risk factor was compared between five high-HIV-prevalence states (>1% prevalence) and a large low-HIV-prevalence state (Uttar Pradesh; HIV prevalence, 0.06%).

Results:There was an association between HIV prevalence and men's mean lifetime number of partners (r = 0.55; P = 0.001) and men reporting sex with a non-married, non-cohabiting partner (r = 0.40; P = 0.014). In general, men in high-prevalence states were less likely to be circumcised and (with the exception of Chandigarh) use condoms at last sex. In two high prevalence states (Mizoram and Nagaland), men reported a higher number of lifetime partners and a higher prevalence of multiple partners and high-risk sex in the past year.

Conclusions:Variation in circumcision prevalence and sexual behavior may contribute to the large variations in HIV prevalence by state in India.
Age, prostate volume, prostate-specific antigen and prostate-specific antigen density as predictor factors in results of transrectal ultrasonography-guided prostate biopsy
Authors: Putra Prima Ciko Ade , Umbas Rainy , Hamid Agus Rizal Ardy Hariandy , Mochtar Chaidir Arif
Published: June 2019

Background: To identify the predictor factors, such as prostate-specific antigen (PSA), age, prostate volume (PV), and PSA density (PSAD) as indications to perform transrectal ultrasonography (TRUS)-guided prostate biopsy in reducing unnecessary biopsies and improving detection rate.

Methods: A total of 1232 samples were obtained from the medical records of patients underwent prostate biopsy from January 2008 to December 2013 in Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital Jakarta. Pre-biopsy data including age, PSA, prostate volume, and PSAD were obtained. The Mann-Whitney U-test and unpaired t-test were conducted on the quantitative variables; a chi-square test was used for qualitative variables. This study also conducted receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis to determine the cut-off point and the optimum specificity and sensitivity for each variable.

Results: Among 1232 patients, 33.5% had a positive biopsy result. The median age and PSA (68 years and 57.45 ng/ml) in the positive biopsy group was higher than in the negative group (65 years and 11.69 ng/ml), p <0.001. PSAD in patients with PSA 4-10 ng/ml, 10-20 ng/ml, and 20 ng/ml (0.20, 0.35, 2.05) in positive group was higher than negative group (0.14, 0.24, 0.53), p <0.001. Those with a positive biopsy result had a lower median PV (42 ml (range, 13.8-208)) compared to those with negative biopsies (55.4 ml) (p <0.001). In ROC curve, PSAD had the highest sensitivity and specificity (81.4% and 82.0%) with a cut-off point of 0.43 ng/ml/ml (p <0.001).

Conclusion: The incidence of PCa increased with higher PSA level, older age and lower PV. Utilization of PSAD 0.17 ng/ml/ml as a cut-off point in patients with PSA level between 4-10 ng/ml is recommended to improve PCa detection in Indonesian men.
Screening tuberculosis patients for diabetes mellitus in a routine program setting in Kampala, Uganda: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Nsonga Joseph , Dongo John Paul , Mugabe Frank , Mutungi Gerald , Walyomo Richard , Oundo Christopher , Zalwango Sarah , Okello Daniel , Muchuro Simon , Dlodlo Riitta A , Lin Yan
Published: June 2019

Background: Uganda is located in East Africa and is among the countries with the lowest income globally. The ten health centres in this project serve populations in the under-privileged communities of Kampala. The objective of the study was to implement diabetes mellitus (DM) screening among tuberculosis (TB) patients in a routine program setting with limited resources and high human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) prevalence.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional observational study was conducted in ten health centres in Kampala, Uganda. As part of a project to implement DM screening in a routine setting, TB patients were screened for DM by trained health workers. A fasting blood glucose (FBG) value ≥7.0mmol/l was considered to indicate DM. For this study, aggregate data was collected and analysed using SPSS for Windows, version 13.0.

Results:  Among 4,590 TB patients registered, 4,016 (88.0%) were screened with random blood glucose (RBG). Of those with RBG ≥6.1mmol/l, 1,093 (83.3%) were screened with FBG. In total, 92 (2.3%) patients were diagnosed with DM and 66 (71.8%) of them were newly diagnosed. The proportion of TB patients screened with FBG in the health centres varied from 58.2% to 100%. The proportion of patients screened with FBG and the prevalence of DM were significantly higher in private health centres compared with public health centres. The health centres in peri-urban areas screened more patients with RBG than those in urban areas. Health centres without DM services screened a larger number of patients with RBG and FBG than those with DM services.

Conclusions: It appears feasible to implement screening TB patients for DM in routine program settings with limited resources and high HIV prevalence. Its introduction requires close collaboration between TB and DM services. The challenges identified need government attention and certain institutional and service-related factors need to be better managed at times.
Mapping of Forest Plantation in Forest Research Institute, Dehradun Using IKONOS Data
Authors: K. Kotresha , Singh Indra Jit
Published: June 2019

The forests are the source for many essential requirements such as fuel wood, timber, raw materials for paper and above all, it helps us to maintain the CO2 /O2 balance in nature. Sustainable forest management requires reliable information. The aerial photographs and GIS data information can generate various scenarios for forest management plans at local, national and global scales. IKONOS is the world first one-meter resolution commercial imaging satellite. The interpretation of aerial photograph and satellite data are of great benefit for neighboring and regional land use, forest mapping, to find change detection and are effective for large are inventories, forest planning etc. In the present study, an attempt has been made to classify the FRI forest in to 11-forest cover and land use classes. The major chunk of forest consists of Pine forest, which occupy 94.04 ha and 143.20 ha of the total forest area during 1973 and 2001, respectively. It is followed by mixed forest with 53.31 ha (1973) and 5.50 ha (2001), and Teak with 17.68 ha (1973) and 8.49 ha (2001). The Sal forest showed an increase in forest cover from 4.83 ha (1973) to 5.39 ha (2001). Similarly Eucalyptus forest showed a forest cover of 1.84 ha in 2001, which was not seen in the year 1973. The constructions also showed an increase from 3.14 ha in 1973 to 24.68 ha in 2001 and in case of nursery and miscellaneous (scrub), there has been increasing in total forest cover. The IKONOS image of 2001 surprisingly showed no change in Champa forest cover. Decrease in forest cover of Teak, Sal and Mixed forest must have been due to felling of trees for logging purposes and their forest cover might have been replaced by scrub vegetation (miscellaneous) , construction, Eucalyptus plantation and nursery. The results of the present project showed changes in terms of area coverage by the forest types, which helps us to assess future prospects of the forestland use pattern.
Effect of Second Sound on the Onset of Rayleigh- Benard Convection in a Micropolar Fluid
Authors: Pranesh S.
Published: June 2019

The effects resulting from the substitution of the classical Fourier law by the non-classical Maxwell-Cattaneo law in Rayleigh-Benard convention in micropolar fluid is studied. The classical approach predicts an infinite speed for the propagation of heat. The present non-classical theory involves a wave type heat transport (SECOND SOUND) and does not suffer from the physically unacceptable drawback of infinite heat propagation speed. It is found that the results are noteworthy at short times and the critical sign values are less than the classical ones.
Sasakian Hypersurfaces of the Generalized Concircular Recurrent Kahlerian Manifold
Authors: Maralabhavi Y. B. , R. Hari Baskar
Published: June 2019

In this paper we consider a recurrent sasakian hyper surface of the generalized con circular recurrent Kahlerian manifold and determine some conditions on the vector fields used in the sasakian structure. Further we determine such conditions for ϕ sasakian hyper surface also.
Characterization of Low-temperature Coal Ash Behaviour under Atmospheric Pressure
Authors: B. Manoj , A. Chandrasekharan K. , G. Kunjomana A.
Published: June 2019

The chemical composition of the virgin coal from Korba coal fields,South central India is determined with the help of Fourier transform Infrared spectroscopy. The process of burning of carbon rich coal is carried out from a temperature of 200˚C to 700˚C under atmospheric pressure and controlled air in a muffle furnace. The resultant coals are examined with FTIR. The result shows that the residence time of coal ash at high temperature has considerable influence on the composition of coal ash and little effect on the amount of unburned carbon. With increase of temperature the oxygenated groups are released mainly as H2O and CO, but also as aldehydes, alcohols and acids. The silicate and quartz mineral content remains the same throughout heating.
Role of NGOs in Biodiversity Conservation: A Situational Analysis
Authors: C. Nanjunda D.
Published: June 2019

India has experienced serious deforestation during the last century and it is anticipated that by the year 2035 India will be almost devoid of forests. NGO's have gained popularity in various parts of India by initiatives to conserve biodiversity such as establishing forest reserves and through the mobilization of indigenous organizations and development. However, the relationships that emerge among NGOs, Govt. and indigenous people with regard to conservation and control over biodiversity is problematic and co-management of established forest reserves often failed, because indigenous ways of use and control of biodiversity were difficult to accept by some conservation organizations. More importantly, there is the claim that NGO's have been working to create dependency while mobilizing indigenous organizations with assistance of Western donors. Recently, to face mainstream conservation models various NGOs are launching awareness movements. These NGOs movements emphasize a co evolution between local biodiversity, indigenous ecological practices, culture and self-development.
Habit modification of Gel grown pure and doped strontium tartrate crystals
Authors: A. Sindhu , B. Gudennavar S. , G. Bubbly S.
Published: June 2019

Pure and doped Strontium tartrate tetrahydrate single crystals were grown in silica gel. The growth features of these crystals with variation of parameters like specific gravity of gel, gel PH, acid concentration, concentration of feed solution and gel age were studied in detail.