bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Increasing Plasma Phosphorus Values by Enriching with Phosphorus the “Acid Concentrate” of a Bicarbonate-Buffered Dialysate Delivery System
Authors: Ing T.S. , Yu A.W. , Agrawal B. , Ansari A.U. , Leehey D.J. , Gandhi V.C. , Nawab Z.M.
Published: March 2018

Each of seven hypophosphatemic hemodialysis patients was dialyzed with a phosphorus-enriched, bicarbonate-buffered dialysate. The latter was prepared by the introduction of sodium phosphate salts to the “acid concentrate” of a bicarbonate-buffered dialysate delivery system. The patients tolerated the procedure well and their hypophosphatemia improved.
Influence of Viscosity and Pressure on Prosthetic Valve Regurgitation
Authors: Pantalos G.M. , Sharp M.K.
Published: March 2018

Blood viscosity varies during the course of artificial heart implants and is affected by pathological conditions. To gauge the potential effect of changing viscosity on valve performance, leakage rates were measured across a closed Medtronic-Hall valve with water, water/glycerol and fresh whole bovine blood for aortic and pulmonary pressure ranges. As might be expected from the low Reynolds numbers (< 140), losses across the valve were found to be primarily viscous. For the two Newtonian fluids, leakage was slightly less than linearly proportional to pressure. This is comparable with empirical data for orifice flow, which predicts three fifths power dependence on pressure. For blood, however, the greater than linear dependence on pressure found suggests that the pseudoplasticity (shear-thinning behavior) of blood is important. These data provide evidence that the viscous and non-Newtonian properties of blood must be taken into account in modelling prosthetic valve performance and may affect the test methods and flow regulation strategies for prosthetic blood pumps.
Abnormal spermatogenesis following sodium fluoride exposure is associated with the downregulation of CREM and ACT in the mouse testis
Authors: Wang Chong , Chen Yan , Manthari Ram Kumar , Wang Jundong
Published: March 2018

cAMP response element modulator (CREM) is involved in regulating gene expression in normal spermatogenesis. The transcriptional activity of CREM is partly regulated by activator of CREM in the testis (ACT). To investigate the effects of different concentrations of sodium fluoride (NaF) on the gene and protein expression of CREM and ACT in the mouse testis, sexually mature male Kunming mice were exposed to 50, 100, or 150 mg/L NaF in their drinking water for 90 days. NaF reduced the sperm count and viability and increased the percentage of malformed sperm in a dose-dependent manner. The mRNA expression of CREM and ACT was markedly downregulated in the NaF-treated groups. Furthermore, immunohistochemistry revealed that CREM and ACT proteins were decreased significantly in the 50, 100, and 150 mg/L NaF-treated groups compared to the control group. These findings indicate that the decreased gene and protein expression of CREM and ACT in the testis is associated with an impairment of reproductive functions by NaF.
Improved dielectric properties of polymer-based composites with carboxylic functionalized multiwalled carbon nanotubes
Authors: Zheng Xiaofang , Huang Yongzhong , Zheng Shaodi , Liu Zhengying , Yang Mingbo
Published: March 2018

The biggest issues in the preparation of carbon nanotube (CNT)-reinforced composites reside in efficient dispersion of CNT into polymer matrix. In our work, a simple acid treatment method was adopted to obtain carboxylic functionalized multiwalled nanotubes (MWNTs), thus improving the dispersion of CNT and interaction between particles and polymer matrix. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and Fourier transform infrared showed that the carboxylic groups were introduced onto the surface of MWNTs. The Raman spectroscopy showed that the amorphous carbon materials and impurities decreased after acid treatment. The electrical and dielectric properties of the Polyamide-11 (PA11)-based composites filled with pristine multiwalled nanotubes (p-MWNTs) and carboxylic functionalized multiwalled nanotubes (c-MWNTs) were investigated. The biggest dielectric constant of PA11/c-MWNTs composites, which was about twice as high as that of PA11/p-MWNTs composites at room temperature and 103 Hz (345–610), was obtained, accompanied by a lower dielectric loss. The formation of abundant microcapacitors and improved interfacial polarization effect by improving the dispersion of MWNTs in the composites via carboxylic functionalization was the main reason for the excellent dielectric properties of PA11/c-MWNTs composites.
Neutrophil CD64 expression, procalcitonin and presepsin are useful to differentiate infections from flares in SLE patients with SIRS
Authors: Echeverri A , Naranjo-Escobar J , Posso-Osorio I , Aguirre-Valencia D , Zambrano D , Castaño G L , Martínez J D , Cañas C A , Tobón G J
Published: March 2018

Background/Objective

Differentiating systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) activity from infections in febrile patients is difficult because of similar initial clinical presentation. The aim of this study is to evaluate the usefulness of a number of biomarkers for differentiating infections from activity in SLE patients admitted with systemic inflammatory response (SIRS).

Methods

Patients with SLE and SIRS admitted to the emergency room were included in this study. Measurements of different markers including procalcitonin, neutrophil CD64 expression and presepsin, were performed. Infection was considered present when positive cultures and/or polymerase chain reaction were obtained. Sensitivity and specificity were calculated for all biomarkers.

Results

Twenty-seven patients were admitted, 23 women (82.5%), mean age 33.2 years. An infectious disease was confirmed in 12 cases. Markers for SLE activity including anti-DNA titers by IIF ( p = 0.041) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay ( p = 0.009) were used for differentiating SLE flares from infection. On the contrary, increased procalcitonin ( p = 0.047), neutrophil CD64 expression by flow cytometry ( p = 0.037) and presepsin ( p = 0.037) levels were observed in infected SLE patients.

Conclusions

High neutrophil CD64 expression, presepsin and procalcitonin levels are useful to differentiate infections from activity in SLE patients. In most cases, a positive bioscore that includes these three markers demonstrate the presence of an infectious disease.
Labial Incompetence in Mobius Syndrome
Authors: Vaca Elbert E. , Turin Sergey Y. , Gosain Arun K.
Published: March 2018

Difficulty with speech intelligibility in Mobius syndrome patients due to bilabial incompetence is common yet rarely discussed. We present a patient with Mobius syndrome who underwent counterclockwise LeFort I impaction to improve her labial competence. In addition, we present a literature review of management strategies for labial incompetence correction in Mobius patients. At 7-year follow-up after LeFort 1 impaction, the patient reports improvement in speech intelligibility, specifically regarding the ability to pronounce bilabial consonants. This is the first published report of LeFort I impaction to improve labial competence and bilabial consonant pronunciation in a Mobius syndrome patient.
Acetabular Revision with a Roof Reinforcement Ring and Impacted Allograft Bone
Authors: Wong P. , Saleh K.J. , King A. , Gross A.E.
Published: March 2018

A series of 43 acetabular revisions treated with impacted allograft bone and a roof reinforcement ring were reviewed. The average follow-up was 5 years (2–15). The mean age was 70 years. The position of the hip center, and the orientation of the ring and cup were digitized and measured. The average inclination of the roof ring with respect to the horizontal was 44° (22°-60°) early post-operatively. The cup inclination was 33° (21°- 49°). These figures did not change significantly at the latest follow-up. Definite loosening was defined as migration of the components or breakage of the screws. Four components were definitely loose. Two other patients had continuous radiolucent lines, but no migration of the components at the bone-implant interface. The radiographic success rate was 86%. Pre- and post-operative Harris Hip Score were 34.1 (18 - 65) and 71.6 (36 - 90) respectively. The study supports the use of impacted morsellized allograft bone and a roof reinforcement ring for cavitary acetabular defects.
Integrity of Proximal Femoral Allografts: A Serial Radiographic Analysis
Authors: Weinmann C. , Gross A.E. , Agnidis Z. , Ross H.
Published: March 2018

To assess the integrity of proximal femoral allografts, we reviewed annual postoperative radiographs of 26 patients (27 hips) with a mean follow-up of 10.0 years (range 6 to 15 years). Radiographs were examined for: graft resorption, implant loosening, host/graft union, trochanteric union and escape, and graft fracture. Our main objective was to document the first appearance, site, degree and progression of allograft resorption. Severe resorption occurred in two cases, at one and six years. Progression was recognized in two different patients at six (moderate to severe) and ten (mild to moderate) years. We observed a potential for allograft resorption at any time post-operatively, emphasizing the need for annual follow-ups with radiographic review
The Vascular Access Questionnaire: Assessing Patient-Reported Views of Vascular Access
Authors: Quinn R.R. , Lamping D.L. , Lok C.E. , Meyer R.A. , Hiller J.A. , Lee J. , Richardson E.P. , Kiss A. , Oliver M.J.
Published: March 2018

Background

The use of central venous catheters for vascular access in hemodialysis (HD) patients is associated with an increased risk of complications compared to arteriovenous fistulas (AVF). Despite this, catheter use remains high and patient satisfaction may be an important driver of catheter use.

Methods

We developed the Vascular Access Questionnaire (VAQ) to measure patient-reported views of their vascular access. Chronic HD patients at two centers were asked to rate how bothered they were by 17 access-related problems. VAQ symptom scores were compared between patients using catheters and those using fistulas for vascular access.

Results

Two hundred and twenty-two patients were eligible for the study. Symptom score was not different between patients using catheters and those using fistulas (p=0.36). However, patients using fistulas were more likely to be at least moderately bothered by pain, bleeding, bruising, swelling, and the appearance of their access than patients using catheters. Elderly patients reported lower symptom scores with catheters than fistulas.

Conclusions

Patients appear to be primarily concerned with the appearance of their access and cannulation-related complications, particularly the elderly. Better education about the risk of adverse events with catheters and the implementation of measures aimed at reducing cannulation-related complications may help to increase fistula rates and improve patient satisfaction with their vascular access.
A Stuck Hemodialysis Central venous Catheter
Authors: Field M. , Pugh J. , Asquith J. , Davies S. , Pherwani A.D.
Published: March 2018

Background

A growing number of hemodialysis patients are dependent upon central venous catheters (CVCs) for long-term vascular access. Although many complications of CVCs have been documented, the phenomenon of the stuck catheter is described relatively infrequently.

Case report

We describe a case where attempts to remove the line by exploration of the jugular insertion site in theater were unsuccessful and the line was internalized.

Discussion

The case is then discussed with all available cases in the literature to suggest principles of managing and preventing the stuck catheter phenomenon.
Epistemological Oppression and the Road to Awakening
Authors: Burns Victoria F. , Macdonald Mary Ellen , Carnevale Franco A.
Published: March 2018

Increasingly, it is becoming evident that qualitative research methodologies have much to contribute to producing health knowledge. Notwithstanding such advances, some would say the “paradigm war” continues, privileging postpositivist epistemologies. Our own experiences working within a post-positivist-dominated health research arena inspired the implementation of an “Epistemological Boot Camp” qualitative research training series. The central goal of the boot camp was to query the hypothesis that we are still in a paradigmatic “war zone” while imagining productive ways to both survive and thrive in the current climate. Moving forward, our hope is that our boot camp methodology can inspire other scholars to develop creative local initiatives that provide a platform to work toward recognizing the unique contributions of qualitative health research.
A New Specific Method for Measuring S-100B in Serum
Authors: Stigbrand T. , Nyberg L. , Ullén A. , Haglid K. , Sandström E. , Brundell J.
Published: March 2018

The S-100 family of proteins are acidic calcium and zinc binding low molecular weight proteins mainly present in astrocytes and in a population of oligodendrocytes of the CNS. S100b, an acidic low weight and zinc binding protein, has attracted considerable interest due to its release into the cerebrospinal fluid and blood from brain tissue following brain damage and from malignant melanomas. A new simple two-step incubation assay has now been elaborated in which two catcher and one tracer monoclonal antibodies are used. The specificity of this assay is high because all the MAbs used bind exclusively to S-100B, as shown by real-time biospecific interaction analyses. Moreover, the working range of the assay is 0.2–60 μg/L with a CV of less than 10%; the resulting high sensitivity has been confirmed by clinical studies. Time dependence, shaking conditions, lower limit of detection limits, effects of dilution, hook effect, recovery, impression as intra- and interassay variations, and crossreactivities with S-100A1 were tested in order to obtain a highly reproducible assay. Sera from healthy blood donors and patients undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass operations were tested with the assay. Several of the patients undergoing open heart surgery presented measurable values in this IRMA S-100 assay, indicating cerebral effects of open heart surgery. The test may be used for postoperative monitoring of these patients.
Flexible Modelling in Survival Analysis. Structuring Biological Complexity from the Information Provided by Tumor Markers
Authors: Biganzoli E. , Boracchi P. , Daidone M.G , Gion M. , Marubini E.
Published: March 2018

The aim of the present article is to introduce and discuss the problem of optimal modelling of the prognostic information provided by putative prognostic variables, possibly measured on a quantitative scale. A number of methodological aspects will be treated, with particular reference to the role of spline functions and artificial neural networks, which will be discussed in the context of the analysis of survival data. The problem of the evaluation and the choice of the optimal statistical models will be examined, with particular attention to the critical aspects related to the definition of prognostic indexes on the basis of the results of the selected models. Clinical examples in breast cancer on the evaluation of the prognostic impact of several tumor markers are provided. This paper is addressed to all researchers who are interested in the evaluation of the prognostic role of tumor markers, therefore we will stress the necessity of integrating the methodologies of biological, clinical and statistical research in the assessment of prognosis.
High Levels of Cathepsin B Predict Poor Outcome in Patients with Breast Cancer
Authors: Maguire T.M. , Shering S.G , Duggan C.M. , McDermott E.W. , O'Higgins N.J. , Duffy M.J.
Published: March 2018

Cathepsin B (CB) is a thiol-stimulated protease implicated in cancer invasion and metastasis. Other proteases involved in cancer spread such as urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPA) and cathepsin D have previously been shown to be prognostic markers in breast cancer. CB was assayed by ELISA in 193 patients with primary breast cancer. CB levels were significantly higher in both primary and metastatic breast tumors than in fibroadenomas (p=0.0001). In the primary carcinomas, CB levels showed no significant correlation with either nodal status, tumor size or estrogen receptor (ER) status. Patients with primary breast cancers containing high levels of CB had a significantly shorter disease-free interval (p=0.01, chi-square=6.61) and overall survival (p=0.014, chi-square=6.08) than patients with low levels of the protease. However, in multivariate analysis, using nodal status, tumor size, ER status and urokinase plasminogen activator (uPA), CB was not an independent prognostic marker. In contrast, nodal status, ER status and uPA were prognostic in multivariate analysis. In conclusion, CB, like certain other proteases implicated in cancer metastasis, correlates with poor outcome in patients with breast cancer. These results thus support the evidence from model systems linking CB to cancer spread. Inhibition of CB expression or activity might therefore be exploited for anti-metastatic therapies.
Preoperative CEA, NSE, SCC, TPA and CYFRA 21.1 Serum Levels as Prognostic Indicators in Resected Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Foa P. , Fornier M. , Miceli R. , Seregni E. , Santambrogio L. , Nosotti M. , Massaron S. , Cataldo I. , Oldani S. , Iurlo A. , Caldiera S. , Bombardieri E.
Published: March 2018

In 62 patients affected by resectable non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) submitted to radical surgery we evaluated the prognostic significance of CEA, NSE, SCC, TPA and CYFRA 21.1 serum levels at diagnosis, as well as the predictive ability of these tumor markers with respect to histological type and pathological stage. The group was composed of 56 male and 6 female patients; the median age was 62 years (range 29–73 years). Thirty-four patients had a histological diagnosis of adenocarcinoma and 28 of squamous cell carcinoma; with regard to pathological stage, 32 patients had stage I, 4 patients stage II and 23 patients stage IIIA disease. A good predictive ability with respect to histological type was obtained with SCC serum levels; as for pathological stage, TPA and CYFRA 21.1 were found to have moderate predictive ability. In this series of patients, at a median follow-up of 55 months after surgery, we found that both TPA and CYFRA 21.1 serum levels at diagnosis were reliable predictors of overall survival, high values of these markers being associated with a worse prognosis.
Going general: Responding to yes–no questions in informational webinars for prospective grant applicants
Authors: Zhang Waring Hansun , Reddington Elizabeth , Yu Di , Clemente Ignasi
Published: March 2018

While research on question–answer sequences has yielded important insights into the structures of responses and the actions they implement, the advising literature has illuminated how advice-giving may be resisted or avoided in certain institutional contexts. In this study, we examine the audio-recorded Q&A sections of applicant webinars delivered by a major philanthropic foundation in the United States, with a particular focus on the foundation representatives’ complex responses to audience members’ yes–no questions that seek specificity. Within a conversation analytic framework, we show how the practice of going general is engaged to manage the demands of being helpful to the individual questioner without appearing to guarantee a particular outcome while foregrounding the foundation’s principles and priorities for the broader audience. Findings of this study may be useful for formulating recommendations for foundation representatives tasked with communicating effectively with potential grantees.
Blood microvasculature and lymphatic densities in endometrial polyps and adjacent and distant endometrium
Authors: Nijkang Njume Peter , Anderson Lyndal , Markham Robert , Fraser Ian Stewart , Manconi Frank
Published: March 2018

Objective:

Endometrial polyps are localised growths of endometrial tissue containing glands, stroma and blood vessels, covered with epithelium. The reported prevalence of endometrial polyps is dependent upon the population being studied and the uterine imaging technique utilised. The light microscopy literature provides very little information regarding their microvasculature and lymphatic systems; however, a plethora of ultrasound data demonstrating single central arteries in most medium- or large-sized endometrial polyps are well documented.

Methods:

Archived formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded blocks of endometrial curettings were retrieved from files for women with confirmed endometrial polyps ( n = 20) and women with normal endometrium (control endometrium; n = 32). Immunohistochemistry was performed with the antibodies CD31 (blood vessels) and D2-40 (lymphatics). Blood vessels and lymphatics were quantified in endometrial polyps and adjacent, distant and control endometrium.

Results:

CD31 and D2-40 staining was present in all specimens, although there were no significant differences in blood vessel ( F(3,70) = 2.36, p = 0.079) and lymphatic ( F(3,70) = 0.16, p = 0.920) densities between endometrial polyps as well as adjacent, distant and control endometrium. There were also no significant differences in women with endometrial polyp-associated bleeding and those with no bleeding. In relation to infertility, there were no significant differences found in blood and lymphatic densities between women with endometrial polyps who were infertile and those with endometrial polyps who were fertile.

Conclusion:

Small blood vessel wall and perivascular structures rather than the distribution of vessels may be associated with abnormal bleeding.
Infants help singers of familiar songs
Authors: Cirelli Laura K. , Trehub Sandra E.
Published: March 2018

Infants are highly selective in their help to unfamiliar individuals. For example, they offer more help to partners who move synchronously with them rather than asynchronously and to partners who interact with them in a “nice” rather than “mean” manner. Infant-directed song and speech may also encourage infant helping by signaling caregiver quality. In the present study, we investigated the effect of infant-directed song and recitation on 14-month-old infants’ subsequent helpfulness and proximity-seeking in relation to unfamiliar performers. During a 2.5-minute exposure phase, infants sat on their caregiver’s lap opposite an experimenter who sang “The Ants Go Marching” (song condition), recited the lyrics (recitation condition), or remained silent while parents read them a book (baseline condition). After the exposure phase, infants participated in a series of helping tasks that necessitated the return of objects dropped “accidentally”. Infants in the song and recitation conditions helped more than those in the baseline condition, but their helping of singers was moderated by song familiarity. Specifically, the extent of help directed to singers correlated positively with song familiarity. Singing (and to some extent, recitation) also encouraged infants to seek proximity with the experimenter. The findings indicate that rhythmic song and recitation by an unfamiliar adult foster infant affiliative behavior, but familiar songs may have special social importance.
Genetic landscape of hepatitis B virus–associated diffuse large B-cell lymphoma
Authors: Ren Weicheng , Ye Xiaofei , Su Hong , Li Wei , Liu Dongbing , Pirmoradian Mohammad , Wang Xianhuo , Zhang Bo , Zhang Qiang , Chen Longyun , Nie Man , Liu Yao , Meng Bin , Huang Huiqiang , Jiang Wenqi , Zeng Yixin , Li Wenyu , Wu Kui , Hou Yong , Wiman Klas G. , Li Zhiming , Zhang Huilai , Peng Roujun , Zhu Shida , Pan-Hammarström Qiang
Published: March 2018

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is endemic in some parts of Asia, Africa, and South America and remains to be a significant public health problem in these areas. It is known as a leading risk factor for the development of hepatocellular carcinoma, but epidemiological studies have also shown that the infection may increase the incidence of several types of B-cell lymphoma. Here, by characterizing altogether 275 Chinese diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) patients, we showed that patients with concomitant HBV infection (surface antigen positive [HBsAg+]) are characterized by a younger age, a more advanced disease stage at diagnosis, and reduced overall survival. Furthermore, by whole-genome/exome sequencing of 96 tumors and the respective peripheral blood samples and targeted sequencing of 179 tumors from these patients, we observed an enhanced rate of mutagenesis and a distinct set of mutation targets in HBsAg+ DLBCL genomes, which could be partially explained by the activities of APOBEC and activation-induced cytidine deaminase. By transcriptome analysis, we further showed that the HBV-associated gene expression signature is contributed by the enrichment of genes regulated by BCL6, FOXO1, and ZFP36L1. Finally, by analysis of immunoglobulin heavy chain gene sequences, we showed that an antigen-independent mechanism, rather than a chronic antigenic simulation model, is favored in HBV-related lymphomagenesis. Taken together, we present the first comprehensive genomic and transcriptomic study that suggests a link between HBV infection and B-cell malignancy. The genetic alterations identified in this study may also provide opportunities for development of novel therapeutic strategies.
MAGIC biomarkers predict long-term outcomes for steroid-resistant acute GVHD
Authors: Major-Monfried Hannah , Renteria Anne S. , Pawarode Attaphol , Reddy Pavan , Ayuk Francis , Holler Ernst , Efebera Yvonne A. , Hogan William J. , Wölfl Matthias , Qayed Muna , Hexner Elizabeth O. , Wudhikarn Kitsada , Ordemann Rainer , Young Rachel , Shah Jay , Hartwell Matthew J. , Chaudhry Mohammed S. , Aziz Mina , Etra Aaron , Yanik Gregory A. , Kröger Nicolaus , Weber Daniela , Chen Yi-Bin , Nakamura Ryotaro , Rösler Wolf , Kitko Carrie L. , Harris Andrew C. , Pulsipher Michael , Reshef Ran , Kowalyk Steven , Morales George , Torres Ivan , Özbek Umut , Ferrara James L. M. , Levine John E.
Published: March 2018

Key Points

Biomarker scores generated after 1 week of steroid treatment of GVHD are prognostic. Biomarkers reflect prognosis better than early clinical response to GVHD treatment.
Multimorbidity medications and poor asthma prognosis
Authors: Chanoine Sébastien , Sanchez Margaux , Pin Isabelle , Temam Sofia , Le Moual Nicole , Fournier Agnès , Pison Christophe , Bousquet Jean , Bedouch Pierrick , Boutron-Ruault Marie-Christine , Varraso Raphaëlle , Siroux Valérie
Published: March 2018

Multimedication related to multimorbidity is common in the elderly with asthma. We aimed at comprehensively characterising medications used by elderly women and assessing how multimedication impacts on asthma prognosis.

We performed network-based analyses on drug administrative databases to visualise the prevalence of drug classes and their interconnections among 17 458 elderly women from the Asthma-E3N study, including 4328 women with asthma. Asthma groups sharing similar medication profiles were identified by a clustering method relying on all medications and were studied in association with adverse asthma events (uncontrolled asthma, attacks/exacerbations and poor asthma-related quality of life).

The network-based analysis showed more multimedication in women with asthma than in those without asthma. The clustering method identified three multimedication profiles in asthma: “Few multimorbidity-related medications” (43.5%), “Predominantly allergic multimorbidity-related medications” (32.8%) and “Predominantly metabolic multimorbidity-related medications” (23.7%). Compared with women belonging to the “Few multimorbidity-related medications” profile, women belonging to the two other profiles had an increased risk of uncontrolled asthma and asthma attacks/exacerbations, and had lower asthma-related quality of life.

The integrative data-driven approach on drug administrative databases identified specific multimorbidity-related medication profiles that were associated with poor asthma prognosis. These findings support the importance of multimorbidity in the unmet needs in asthma management.
Dispersion analysis of borehole sonic measurements by Hilbert transform and band-pass filters
Authors: Zeng Fuqiang , Yue Wenzheng , Li Chao
Published: March 2018

Dispersion analysis of waves can reveal important mechanical properties of the formation around the borehole. The traditional dispersion analysis methods are affected by wave modes and aliasing. A new method is developed to perform dispersion analysis of borehole array acoustic logging, which combines the semblance of time-slowness coherence based on differential phase (STC-DP) processing and band-pass filters. Unlike the classic STC method, STC-DP is not sensitive to the window length. Two kinds of band-pass filters, the multiple filter technique and the finite-impulse response filter, are used. The band-pass filters can decompose the waveform signal into a series of waveforms in the frequency-time domain. In contrast to traditional dispersion analysis methods, there is no knowledge of wave modes. The new method can extract multimode dispersion curves, especially for the weak wave mode. For most dispersion analysis methods, the aliasing will appear in the high-frequency band when the scanning range of slowness is large enough. The aliased modes might interfere with other true modes, but the aliased modes are quite different from other true modes in the time-slowness grid. Therefore, aliased modes can be removed in the time-slowness grid based on the modal dispersion curves. Synthetic and field examples are used to verify the advantages of the proposed method over traditional dispersion analysis methods.
Implication of Major Adverse Postoperative Events and Myocardial Injury on Disability and Survival: A Planned Subanalysis of the ENIGMA-II Trial
Authors: Beattie W. Scott , Wijeysundera Duminda N. , Chan Matthew T. V. , Peyton Philip J. , Leslie Kate , Paech Michael J. , Sessler Daniel I. , Wallace Sophie , Myles Paul S.
Published: March 2018

BACKGROUND:

Globally, >300 million patients have surgery annually, and ≤20% experience adverse postoperative events. We studied the impact of both cardiac and noncardiac adverse events on 1-year disability-free survival after noncardiac surgery.

METHODS:

We used the study cohort from the Evaluation of Nitrous oxide in Gas Mixture of Anesthesia (ENIGMA-II) trial, an international randomized trial of 6992 noncardiac surgical patients. All were ≥45 years of age and had moderate to high cardiac risk. The primary outcome was mortality within 1 postoperative year. We defined 4 separate types of postoperative adverse events. Major adverse cardiac events (MACEs) included myocardial infarction (MI), cardiac arrest, and myocardial revascularization with or without troponin elevation. MI was defined using the third Universal Definition and was blindly adjudicated. A second cohort consisted of patients with isolated troponin increases who did not meet the definition for MI. We also considered a cohort of patients who experienced major adverse postoperative events (MAPEs), including unplanned admission to intensive care, prolonged mechanical ventilation, wound infection, pulmonary embolism, and stroke. From this cohort, we identified a group without troponin elevation and another with troponin elevation that was not judged to be an MI. Multivariable Cox proportional hazard models for death at 1 year and assessments of proportionality of hazard functions were performed and expressed as an adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

RESULTS:

MACEs were observed in 469 patients, and another 754 patients had isolated troponin increases. MAPEs were observed in 631 patients. Compared with control patients, patients with a MACE were at increased risk of mortality (aHR, 3.36 [95% CI, 2.55–4.46]), similar to patients who suffered a MAPE without troponin elevation (n = 501) (aHR, 2.98 [95% CI, 2.26–3.92]). Patients who suffered a MAPE with troponin elevation but without MI had the highest risk of death (n = 116) (aHR, 4.29 [95% CI, 2.89–6.36]). These 4 types of adverse events similarly affected 1-year disability-free survival.

CONCLUSIONS:

MACEs and MAPEs occur at similar frequencies and affect survival to a similar degree. All 3 types of postoperative troponin elevation in this analysis were associated, to varying degrees, with increased risk of death and disability.
Polycomb group (PcG) proteins and Pax6 cooperate to inhibit in vivo reprogramming of the developing Drosophila eye
Authors: Zhu Jinjin , Ordway Alison J. , Weber Lena , Buddika Kasun , Kumar Justin P.
Published: March 2018

How different cells and tissues commit to and determine their fates has been a central question in developmental biology since the seminal embryological experiments conducted by Wilhelm Roux and Hans Driesch in sea urchins and frogs. Here, we demonstrate that Polycomb group (PcG) proteins maintain Drosophila eye specification by suppressing the activation of alternative fate choices. The loss of PcG in the developing eye results in a cellular reprogramming event in which the eye is redirected to a wing fate. This fate transformation occurs with either the individual loss of Polycomb proteins or the simultaneous reduction of the Pleiohomeotic repressive complex and Pax6. Interestingly, the requirement for retinal selector genes is limited to Pax6, as the removal of more downstream members does not lead to the eye-wing transformation. We also show that distinct PcG complexes are required during different developmental windows throughout eye formation. These findings build on earlier observations that the eye can be reprogrammed to initiate head epidermis, antennal and leg development.
Hormonally mediated effects of artificial light at night on behavior and fitness: linking endocrine mechanisms with function
Authors: Ouyang Jenny Q. , Davies Scott , Dominoni Davide
Published: March 2018

Alternation between day and night is a predictable environmental fluctuation that organisms use to time their activities. Since the invention of artificial lighting, this predictability has been disrupted and continues to change in a unidirectional fashion with increasing urbanization. As hormones mediate individual responses to changing environments, endocrine systems might be one of the first systems affected, as well as being the first line of defense to ameliorate any negative health impacts. In this Review, we first highlight how light can influence endocrine function in vertebrates. We then focus on four endocrine axes that might be affected by artificial light at night (ALAN): pineal, reproductive, adrenal and thyroid. Throughout, we highlight key findings, rather than performing an exhaustive review, in order to emphasize knowledge gaps that are hindering progress on proposing impactful and concrete plans to ameliorate the negative effects of ALAN. We discuss these findings with respect to impacts on human and animal health, with a focus on the consequences of anthropogenic modification of the night-time environment for non-human organisms. Lastly, we stress the need for the integration of field and lab experiments as well as the need for long-term integrative eco-physiological studies in the rapidly expanding field of light pollution.
A simple model predicts energetically optimised jumping in dogs
Authors: Daniels Katherine A. J. , Burn J. F.
Published: March 2018

It is generally accepted that animals move in a way that minimises energy use during regular gait and there is evidence that the principle might extend more generally to locomotor behaviour and manoeuvres. Jumping during locomotion is a useful manoeuvre that contributes to the versatility of legged locomotion and is within the repertoire of many terrestrial animals. We describe a simple ballistic model that can be used to identify a single unique trajectory of the body's centre of mass that minimises the mechanical work to initiate a jump, regardless of the approach velocity or take-off position. The model was used to show that domestic dogs (Canis lupus familiaris) demonstrate complex anticipatory control of locomotor behaviour by systematically using jump trajectories close to those that minimised the mechanical energy of jumps over raised obstacles. It is unclear how the dogs acquired the complex perception and control necessary to exhibit the observed behaviour. The model may be used to investigate whether animals adopt energetically optimised behaviour in any similarly-constrained ballistic task.
The consequences of seasonal fasting during the dormancy of tegu lizards (Salvator merianae) on their postprandial metabolic response
Authors: Gavira Rodrigo S. B. , Sartori Marina R. , Gontero-Fourcade Manuel N. , Gomes Bruna F. , Abe Augusto S. , Andrade Denis V.
Published: March 2018

Tegu lizards (Salvator merianae) aestivate for up to 5 months during Brazil's winter, when they retreat to burrows and halt most activities. Dormant tegus reduce their gastrointestinal (GI) mass, which allows a substantial energy economy. This strategy however, implies that the first post-dormancy digestion would be more costly than subsequent feeding episodes due to GI atrophy. To address this, we determined the postprandial metabolic response (SDA) of the first (M1), second (M2) and several (RM) feeding episodes after tegus' dormancy. Another group of tegus (PF) was subjected to an extra 50-days fasting period after arousal. Glucose, triglycerides, and uric acid levels were checked before and after feeding. M1 digestion lasted twice as long and cost two-fold more when compared to M2 or RM, in agreement with the idea that GI atrophy inflates digestion cost at the first post-dormancy meal. SDA response was similar in M2 and RM suggesting that the GI tract was fully reorganized after the first feeding. SDA cost was equal in PF and RM implying that the change in state per se (dormant-to-arousal) triggers the regrowth of GI, independently of feeding. Fasting M1 presented higher triglycerides and lower uric acid levels than fed tegus, indicating that fasting is mainly sustained by fat storages. Our results showed that seasonal fasting imposes an extra digestion cost to tegus following their next feeding, which is fully paid during their first digestion. This surplus cost, however, may be negligible compared to the overall energetic savings provisioned from GI tract atrophy during the dormancy period.
Energetic costs of performance in trained and untrainedAnolis carolinensislizards
Authors: Lailvaux Simon P. , Wang Andrew Z. , Husak Jerry F.
Published: March 2018

The energetic costs of performance constitute a non-trivial component of animals’ daily energetic budgets. However, we currently lack an understanding of how those costs are partitioned among the various stages of performance development, maintenance, and production. We manipulated individual investment in performance by training Anolis carolinensis lizards for endurance or sprinting ability. We then measured energetic expenditure both at rest and immediately following exercise to test whether such training alters the maintenance and production costs of performance. Trained lizards had lower resting metabolic rates than controls, suggestive of a maintenance saving associated with enhanced performance as opposed to a cost. Production costs also differed, with sprint-trained lizards incurring the largest energetic performance cost and experiencing the longest recovery times compared to endurance trained and control animals. Although performance training modifies metabolism, production costs are probably the key drivers of trade-offs between performance and other life-history traits in this species.
A case report of horner's syndrome presenting post bimaxillary osteotomy
Authors: Kidner Melanie , Hussain Omar , Shelton Andrew , Scott Paul
Published: March 2018

Bimaxillary osteotomy is a surgical procedure used to correct dentofacial deformity. Although the complication rates are low, there are some rare but serious complications of this procedure. 1 This article looks at the recognized complications of orthognathic surgery and describes a previously undocumented incident of a patient who developed Horner's syndrome post bimaxillary osteotomy.

CPD/Clinical Relevance: Although the general incidence of Horner's syndrome is low it can occur as an uncommon but serious complication of a variety of invasive surgical procedures. Its development can also be the sign of serious underlying disease, therefore it is important for all clinicians to be aware of the clinical signs of the syndrome and the appropriate management.
Infant nutrition: the 1000 days that can last a lifetime
Authors: Greener Mark
Published: March 2018

Mark Greener explains that dietary patterns in early life have long-lasting effects on a child's health
Pensions Regulator fines thousands of firms
Authors: Long Nathan
Published: March 2018

Pensions automatic enrolment is 5 years old. While the rollout is complete, employers duties are ongoing. With stiff penalties for non-compliance, care homes need to understand their obligations towards their employees' pensions
Leading change in school
Authors: Matthews Martin
Published: March 2018

When an area of school life needs to be reviewed, refreshed and changed, it can sometimes be difficult to convince colleagues. Martin Matthews offers his advice on leading change
Acute phase proteins and their clinical use in the adult horse
Authors: McGovern Kate
Published: March 2018

Inflammatory markers in the peripheral circulation are commonly evaluated in horses and are altered in systemic inflammation. They often provide useful information to assess the presence, severity and chronicity of disease. Acute phase proteins (APPs), white blood cell count and platelet concentration are all affected by inflammation. Analysis of these markers is helpful for monitoring clinical progress and for determining the success and end-point of treatment. Means of obtaining this information are now widely available, with virtually all veterinary practices now having a basic haematology machine and biochemistry machines on site. In the era of the development of stable-side machines, measurement of certain inflammatory markers, such as serum amyloid A (SAA), is easily and rapidly accessible to ambulatory practitioners. Obtaining a full inflammatory profile is easily performed by sending a blood sample to a veterinary hospital or commercial laboratory, with multiple options available for measurement of different parameters. The major focus of this article is on APPs, rather than the leucogram. Albumin and globulin are classed as APPs throughout this article, although it should be noted that there are many causes of albumin decreases in addition to inflammation. Multiple APPs are discussed below, with case examples being provided, highlighting the clinical usefulness of APPs.
Day-case holmium laser enucleation of the prostate: feasibility, safety and predictive factors
Authors: Lee S-M , Gordon K , McMillan R , Crystal F , Acher P
Published: March 2018

Introduction

Transurethral resection of the prostate has remained the most common operation for bladder outlet obstruction in the UK, but it is associated with potential morbidity and median two-day length of hospital stay. Holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) provides an alternative procedure. Provision of day-case HoLEP would improve patient care through increased efficiency. We assessed the feasibility and safety of day-case HoLEP and examined predictive factors for increased length of hospital stay.

Materials and methods

Patients presenting for HoLEP by a single surgeon from September 2013 to September 2016 were considered for day-case surgery. Patients were discharged following assessment by the operating surgeon and met predetermined discharge criteria. Factors contributing to day-case success were identified.

Results

In total, 210 patients (mean age 70.3 ± 8.5 years) underwent HoLEP, with 74 (35.3%) discharged as true day-cases and a further 84 (40.0%) discharged within 23 hours. Readmission rate was 5.5%, with all complications Clavien–Dindo grade I or II. Factors associated with successful day-case operation included low-volume prostates (≤ 40 g) (odds ratio, OR, 3.097, 95% confidence interval, CI, 1.619–5.924, P = 0.0001) and morning surgical lists (OR 6.124, 95% CI 2.526-14.845, p<0.001).

Discussion and conclusion

Day-case HoLEP is both feasible and safe, with low readmission rates. Two factors were significantly associated with successful day-case surgery: small volume prostate and morning theatre lists. Addressing these factors through preoperative planning can improve day-case surgery rates and improve bed throughput.
Literatura na Hora Certa, um pacto para o letramento literário? Uma análise da proposta de formação do Pnaic
Authors: Peixoto Elza Rodrigues Barbosa , Pinho Maria José de
Published: March 2018

Este artigo discute e analisa discursivamente a ação de formação do professor alfabetizador, trazida pelo PNLD/PNAIC na edição 2015, através do Guia de Literatura na Hora Certa. Optou-se pela semiótica greimasiana como abordagem de análise dos discursos presentes nos guias sobre o processo de escolarização da leitura literária, com o objetivo de verificar se as concepções ideológicas que perpassam os discursos da referida ação de formação entram em conjunção com o que nos propõe os estudos do letramento literário e quais imagens de escolarização literária projetam em seu discurso. Evidenciou-se, pela análise empreendida, que no percurso temático da literatura na alfabetização, marcar as séries iniciais como a hora certa da literatura foi o fio condutor da proposta-guia, reiterada nas diversas vozes que compuseram esse discurso.
A motivação para a leitura na escola: contribuições do ensino de literatura
Authors: Galvão André Luis Machado , Silva António Carvalho da
Published: March 2018

Este trabalho discute a importância da leitura para o mundo contemporâneo e como ela tem sido trabalhada na escola, considerando em que termos o ensino de literatura pode ser motivador da formação do gosto pelo ato de ler. A partir de pesquisa bibliográfica, são analisadas concepções e teorias que embasam as considerações que norteiam a pesquisa. É possível concluir que o ensino de literatura, através do letramento literário, pode se constituir como recurso motivador para que, no ambiente escolar,  venha a ocorrer a formação de leitores críticos e autônomos.
Variação fonético-fonológica na música popular nordestina
Authors: Santana Gilvan Da Costa
Published: March 2018

Lançamos mão, neste estudo, de conceitos relevantes enfatizados pela Sociolinguística, relacionando-os a músicas do cancioneiro nordestino brasileiro, objetivando a construção de conhecimentos que se contraponham a preconceitos de ordem social e linguística, por reconhecimento de legitimidade das variações diatópicas. Esta abordagem visa fomentar o respeito à identidade sociolinguística. Para tanto, interessou-nos, precipuamente, verificar e analisar a presença de variação fonético-fonológica e figuras de dicção ou metaplasmos em textos clássicos do cancioneiro nacional-regional, tais como: Asa Branca, Assum Preto e Sussuarana. Nessa perspectiva, compositores de origem nordestina como Luiz Gonzaga, Humberto Teixeira, Heckel Tavares, Luiz Peixoto, dentre tantos outros, legitimam a realidade diatópica e diastrática do Brasil por meio da canção popular, a despeito de todo e qualquer preconceito sociolinguístico ainda renitente. Salientamos, por fim, que, para consecução de tal intento, nossa pesquisa estabelece diálogo com as contribuições de Amadeu Amaral, Antenor Nascentes e, especificamente, Mário Marroquim.
Gig Reviews
Authors: Clark Dave , Cross Rich
Published: March 2018

Gosport Punkfest, Gosport and Fareham Rugby Club, Gosport, UK, 11–12 August 2017

Penetration, Morgellons and the Ruins, The Hairy Dog, Derby, UK, 11 November 2017