bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Palmoplantar keratoses and Bowen's disease in a Vietnam veteran: Could Agent Blue be implicated?
Authors: Cognetta Armand B , Wolfe Christopher M , Herbst Alexander T
Published: August 2015

Agent Blue was an arsenical herbicide used extensively in the Vietnam War. Arsenic is one of the known causes of acquired palmoplantar keratoderma (PPK). The most common manifestation of arsenic exposure in susceptible individuals is bilateral palmoplantar hyperkeratosis. We report a 67‐year‐old man with no known prior exposure to arsenic in the USA or family history of PPK who developed multiple squamous cell carcinoma in situ (SCCIS) and palmoplantar hyperkeratotic lesions beginning 23 years after service in Vietnam. The SCCIS were located on the trunk and extremities in both sun‐exposed and non‐sun‐exposed sites and his palmoplantar lesions were diagnosed concurrently with his SCCIS. He has continued to develop SCCIS since his first visit to our clinic 25 years ago.
Influence of anterior vaginal mesh with concomitant mid‐urethral sling surgery on stress urinary incontinence: clinical and sonographic outcome
Authors: Lo Tsia‐Shu , Tan Yiap Loong , Cortes Eileen Feliz Mendoza , Lin Yi‐Hao , Wu Pei‐Ying , Pue Leng Boi
Published: August 2015

Introduction

To clinically and sonographically evaluate the influence of anterior vaginal mesh (AVM) surgery with concomitant mid‐urethral sling surgery (MUS) for stress urinary incontinence (SUI).

Materials and Methods

Women with severe symptomatic pelvic organ prolapse (POP) stage III or IV with concomitant SUI were divided into two groups: Group I had transobturator tape (TOT) and AVM surgery and Group II underwent TOT without AVM surgery. Clinical outcome was assessed pre‐operatively and 1 year post‐operatively, while ultrasound evaluations were performed after one year. Objective cure was defined as no urinary leakage demonstrable on provocative filling cystometry. Subjective SUI cure was a negative response to Urogenital Distress Inventory Six (UDI‐6) (question 3).

Results

A total of 97 women were recruited, 57 in Group I and 40 in Group II. Three women had symptomatic prolapse in Group I and 5 in Group II. There were no differences in the ultrasound and clinical outcomes between women who had mid‐urethral slings with and without AVM. Successful SUI outcome was reported in 85 women. Urethral kinking was demonstrable in 50% of successful cases, but none with failed outcomes. Subanalysis among those with successful SUI outcome (n = 85) and failure (n = 12) revealed the tape, bladder neck and mesh mobility was significantly higher (P < 0.001) among those with SUI success.

Conclusions

Among women who had MUS, there were no differences in the ultrasound and clinical outcome between those who had AVM or otherwise.
The Political Ecology of Palk Bay Fisheries: Geographies of Capital, Fisher Conflict, Ethnicity and Nation‐State
Authors: Menon Ajit , Bavinck Maarten , Stephen Johny , Manimohan R.
Published: August 2015

Indian trawl fishers in the Palk Bay regularly engage in cross‐border fishing to the detriment of Sri Lankan artisanal fishers whose nets are irreparably damaged. Increasing tension between Indian trawl fishers from the state of Tamil Nadu and Sri Lankan artisanal fishers from the Northern Province has resulted in the Sri Lankan government patrolling the international maritime boundary line (IMBL) more stringently and increased arrests of Indian trawl fishers. This paper argues that the present “fisheries crisis” in the Palk Bay must be understood from a political ecology perspective that takes cognizance of the circuitous nature of capital accumulation and how fisher conflict, ethnicity and the politics of the nation‐state have shaped the spatial practices of accumulation. In a changing global context where semi‐industrial vessels are increasingly crossing boundaries, it argues for more context specific studies of processes of capital accumulation.
Apparent ileal digestibility of nutrients and amino acids in soybean meal, fish meal, spray‐dried plasma protein and fermented soybean meal to weaned pigs
Authors: Jeong Jin Suk , Park Jae Won , Lee Sang In , Kim In Ho
Published: August 2015

This study sought to determine whether fermentation could increase apparent ileal digestibility (AID) of dry matter (DM), nitrogen (N), energy (E) and amino acids (AA) in fermented soybean meal (FSBM) greater than that of soybean meal (SBM) in weaned pigs. Four weaned pigs (10.00 ± 0.30 kg) were surgically equipped with T‐cannulas and randomly followed a 4 × 4 Latin square design of treatments (SBM, FSBM, fish meal and spray‐dried plasma protein). Overall, the fermentation process was able to reduce the amount of anti‐nutritional factors (ANF), including trypsin inhibitors, raffinose and stachyose, in the FSBM diet, which were significantly reduced by 39.4, 92.2, and 92.9%, respectively, as compared to the SBM diet. As a consequence of ANF reduction in FSBM, the AID of DM, N and E as well as AA was significantly greater with FSBM than SBM. Taken all together, the fermentation process improved the nutritional quality of SBM, due to ANF reduction, leading to improvement of digestibility of AA. As such, FSBM can be potentially used as a specialized feed ingredient, especially for young animal diets in an attempt to reduce diet costs.
Evaluation of changes in oral drug absorption in preterm and term neonates for Biopharmaceutics Classification System (BCS) class I and II compounds
Authors: Somani Amit A. , Thelen Kirstin , Zheng Songmao , Trame Mirjam N. , Coboeken Katrin , Meyer Michaela , Schnizler Katrin , Ince Ibrahim , Willmann Stefan , Schmidt Stephan
Published: August 2015

Aims

Evidence suggests that the rate of oral drug absorption changes during early childhood. Yet, respective clinical implications are currently unclear, particularly for preterm neonates. The objective of this study was to evaluate changes in oral drug absorption after birth for different Biopharmaceutics Classification System (BCS) class I and II compounds to better understand respective implications for paediatric pharmacotherapy.

Methods

Two paradigm compounds were selected for BCS class I (paracetamol (acetaminophen) and theophylline) and II (indomethacin and ibuprofen), respectively, based on the availability of clinical literature data following intravenous and oral dosing. A comparative population pharmacokinetic analysis was performed in a step‐wise manner in nonmem® 7.2 to characterize and predict changes in oral drug absorption after birth for paracetamol, theophylline and indomethacin.

Results

A one compartment model with an age‐dependent maturation function for oral drug absorption was found appropriate to characterize the pharmacokinetics of paracetamol. Our findings indicate that the rate at which a drug is absorbed from the GI tract reaches adult levels within about 1 week after birth. The maturation function for paracetamol was found applicable to theophylline and indomethacin once solubility limitations were overcome via drug formulation. The influence of excipients on solubility and, hence, oral bioavailability was confirmed for ibuprofen, a second BCS class II compound.

Conclusions

The findings of our study suggest that the processes underlying changes in oral drug absorption after birth are drug‐independent and that the maturation function identified for paracetamol may be generally applicable to other BCS class I and II compounds for characterizing drug absorption in preterm as well as term neonates.
Treating disorders of the neonatal central nervous system: pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic considerations with a focus on antiepileptics
Authors: Donovan Maria D. , Boylan Geraldine B. , Murray Deirdre M. , Cryan John F. , Griffin Brendan T.
Published: August 2015

A major consideration in the treatment of neonatal disorders is that the selected drug, dose and dosage frequency is safe, effective and appropriate for the intended patient population. Thus, a thorough knowledge of the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of the chosen drug within the patient population is essential. In paediatric and neonatal populations two additional challenges can often complicate drug treatment – the inherently greater physiological variability, and a lack of robust clinical evidence of therapeutic range. There has traditionally been an overreliance in paediatric medicine on extrapolating doses from adult values by adjusting for bodyweight or body surface area, but many other sources of variability exist which complicate the choice of dose in neonates. The lack of reliable drug dosage data in neonates has been highlighted by regulatory authorities, as only ~50% of the most commonly used paediatric medicines have been examined in a paediatric population. Moreover, there is a paucity of information on the pharmacokinetic parameters which affect drug concentrations in different body tissues, and pharmacodynamic responses to drugs in the neonate. Thus, in the present review, we draw attention to the main pharmacokinetic factors that influence the unbound brain concentration of neuroactive drugs. Moreover, the pharmacodynamic differences between neonates and adults that affect the activity of centrally‐acting therapeutic agents are briefly examined, with a particular emphasis on antiepileptic drugs.
A Bayesian Model for Quantifying the Change in Mortality Associated with Future Ozone Exposures Under Climate Change
Authors: Alexeeff Stacey E. , Pfister Gabriele G. , Nychka Doug
Published: August 2015

Climate change is expected to have many impacts on the environment, including changes in ozone concentrations at the surface level. A key public health concern is the potential increase in ozone-related summertime mortality if surface ozone concentrations rise in response to climate change. Although ozone formation depends partly on summertime weather, which exhibits considerable inter-annual variability, previous health impact studies have not incorporated the variability of ozone into their prediction models. A major source of uncertainty in the health impacts is the variability of the modeled ozone concentrations. We propose a Bayesian model and Monte Carlo estimation method for quantifying health effects of future ozone. An advantage of this approach is that we include the uncertainty in both the health effect association and the modeled ozone concentrations. Using our proposed approach, we quantify the expected change in ozone-related summertime mortality in the contiguous United States between 2000 and 2050 under a changing climate. The mortality estimates show regional patterns in the expected degree of impact. We also illustrate the results when using a common technique in previous work that averages ozone to reduce the size of the data, and contrast these findings with our own. Our analysis yields more realistic inferences, providing clearer interpretation for decision making regarding the impacts of climate change.
The Origin of Morality
Authors: Covington Coline
Published: August 2015

Psychoanalytic theory attributes the development of morality largely to the role of the superego, as the internalization of authority that helps the ego live within the constraints of reality. Conscience is born when the infant is able to imagine the feelings of another, to see that his actions have an impact on others, and to experience concern. This is the attainment of the depressive position in which good and bad are no longer split and kept separate from one another but coexist within the same object, just as the child can experience both love and hate towards his object. While having a conscience and doing the ‘right’ thing reflect larger group norms that develop from childhood, is there nevertheless an idea of ‘right’ and ‘wrong’ that precedes the tenets of the group? This paper proposes that our sense of morality is based on our initial perception of ourselves, as mirrored by the observing ego, and the degree to which our experience of reality is validated internally. The idea of ‘being true to oneself’ is the fundamental cornerstone of moral sensibility.
Chromanyl–isoxazolidines as Antibacterial agents: Synthesis, Biological Evaluation, Quantitative Structure Activity Relationship, and Molecular Docking Studies
Authors: Singh Gagandeep , Sharma Anuradha , Kaur Harpreet , Ishar Mohan Paul S.
Published: August 2015

Regio‐ and stereoselective 1,3‐dipolar cycloadditions of C‐(chrom‐4‐one‐3‐yl)‐N‐phenylnitrones (N) with different mono‐substituted, disubstituted, and cyclic dipolarophiles were carried out to obtain substituted N‐phenyl‐3′‐(chrom‐4‐one‐3‐yl)‐isoxazolidines (1‐40). All the synthesized compounds were assayed for their in vitro antibacterial activity and display significant inhibitory potential; in particular, compound 32 exhibited good inhibitory activity against Salmonella typhymurium‐1 & Salmonella typhymurium‐2 with minimum inhibitory concentration value of 1.56 μg/mL and also showed good potential against methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus with minimum inhibitory concentration 3.12 μg/mL. Quantitative structure activity relationship investigations with stepwise multiple linear regression analysis and docking simulation studies have been performed for validation of the observed antibacterial potential of the investigated compounds for determination of the most important parameters regulating antibacterial activities.
Endocrine abnormalities in HIV‐infected women are associated with peak viral load – the Children and Women: AntiRetrovirals and Markers of Aging (CARMA) Cohort
Authors: Sokalski Kristen M. , Chu Jackson , Mai Alice Y. , Qiu Annie Q. , Albert Arianne Y.K. , Zanet DeAnna L. , Côté Hélène C.F. , Maan Evelyn J. , Pick Neora , Prior Jerilynn C. , Money Deborah M. , Murray Melanie C. M. ,   the CIHR team grant on HIV therapy and aging: CARMA
Published: August 2015

Objectives

To investigate the prevalence of endocrine disturbances in a group of HIV‐positive (HIV+) women and to identify factors affecting presence of these disorders. To examine specifically whether cellular ageing, as measured by leukocyte telomere length (LTL), is correlated with the presence of endocrine disturbance.

Design

A cross‐sectional retrospective substudy of an ongoing prospective cohort study.

Patients

Adult HIV+ (≥19 years) women enrolled in the CARMA (Children and Women: AntiRetrovirals and Markers of Aging) cohort study (N = 192). Prevalences of T2DM, glucose intolerance, dyslipidaemia, thyroid disorders, adrenal insufficiency, hypogonadism, primary ovarian insufficiency (POI), demographics, HIV and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection status, baseline LTL, combined antiRetroviral therapy (cART) and substance exposures were collected. Statistical analysis included univariable followed by multivariable Poisson regression and step‐wise reduction to refine the multivariable model.

Results

Prevalence of any endocrine abnormality was 58% (dyslipidaemia 43%, glucose intolerance/T2DM 13%, thyroid disorders 15%). In multivariable analysis, age was associated with number and type (any, glucose, lipid) of abnormality, while increasing body mass index (BMI) was associated with number of diagnoses and with glucose metabolism disorders. Interestingly, peak HIV pVL ≥100 000 copies/ml was associated with any abnormality, total number of disorders and presence of a thyroid disorder, while any disorder, glucose abnormalities and dyslipidaemia were negatively associated with alcohol use. LTL was not associated with number or type of endocrine abnormalities in this study.

Conclusion

Further studies examining the relationship between duration and extent of exposure to HIV viraemia in relation to developing abnormal endocrine function are warranted.
Bevacizumab is safe in acute relapses of neuromyelitis optica
Authors: Mealy Maureen A. , Shin Kyong , John Gareth , Levy Michael
Published: August 2015

Objectives

Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is a relapsing autoimmune disease targeting the spinal cord and optic nerve leading to paralysis and blindness. Current treatment for acute NMO attacks is immunosuppression with high‐dose corticosteroids and/or plasmapheresis. Preclinical animal studies suggest that bevacizumab might be beneficial in limiting the extent of inflammation during a NMO relapse by reducing the disruption of the blood–brain barrier.

Methods

We carried out an open‐label phase 1b safety and proof‐of‐concept trial in 10 participants with NMO immunoglobulin G seropositive NMO, NMO spectrum disease and those at high risk for developing NMO/NMO spectrum disease who presented with an acute attack of transverse myelitis, optic neuritis or brainstem inflammation. In addition to treating with 1 g of daily intravenous methylprednisolone, we infused 10 mg/kg of bevacizumab intravenously on day 1 of treatment. The primary outcome measure was safety and the secondary outcome measure was efficacy.

Results

Of the 10 participants enrolled, five presented with acute transverse myelitis, four with acute optic neuritis and one with a brainstem lesion. Bevacizumab was safe in all 10 participants, with only one serious adverse event within the 90‐day follow up that was not attributed to the medication. Three patients recovered to pre‐attack neurological function or better, and no patients required escalation to plasmapheresis.

Conclusions

Bevacizumab is a safe add‐on therapy to high‐dose corticosteroids for NMO/NMO spectrum disease patients presenting with an acute relapse.
The tipping point: fateful moments in child protection
Authors: Kettle Martin
Published: August 2015

Social workers working to protect children face the prospect of making very finely balanced judgements, often on the basis of incomplete information. Based on doctoral research into sense‐making by social workers, this paper explores aspects of the tipping point, i.e. where the categorization of a child's situation changes, potentially leading to a very different response to their needs. Those aspects include identifying the triggers for, and consequences of, the tipping point, and being aware that the tipping point being reached may have to do with changes in the internal world of the worker as well as changes in the circumstances of the family.

This paper stresses the need for a more nuanced understanding of the tipping point, and emphasizes the need to take account of the processes of decision‐making, and of looking at both inter‐ and intra‐personal components of those processes. Further, it is argued that a cautious attitude requires to be taken towards technical–rational solutions and that there is a real need to place professional judgement and consideration of the tacit dimension at the heart of the child protection process.
Mesh Sequence Morphing
Authors: Chen Xue , Feng Jieqing , Bechmann Dominique
Published: August 2015

Morphing is an important technique for the generation of special effects in computer animation. However, an analogous technique has not yet been applied to the increasingly prevalent animation representation, i.e. 3D mesh sequences. In this paper, a technique for morphing between two mesh sequences is proposed to simultaneously blend motions and interpolate shapes. Based on all possible combinations of the motions and geometries, a universal framework is proposed to recreate various plausible mesh sequences. To enable a universal framework, we design a skeleton‐driven cage‐based deformation transfer scheme which can account for motion blending and geometry interpolation. To establish one‐to‐one correspondence for interpolating between two mesh sequences, a hybrid cross‐parameterization scheme that fully utilizes the skeleton‐driven cage control structure and adapts user‐specified joint‐like markers, is introduced. The experimental results demonstrate that the framework, not only accomplishes mesh sequence morphing, but also is suitable for a wide range of applications such as deformation transfer, motion blending or transition and dynamic shape interpolation.
A molecular phylogenetic approach to the systematics of Cylindropuntieae (Opuntioideae, Cactaceae)
Authors: Bárcenas Rolando T.
Published: August 2015

Previous taxonomic schemes for the Cylindropuntieae were re‐evaluated in the light of a molecular phylogeny derived from a Bayesian, maximum‐likelihood and parsimony reconstructions with three plastid regions (atpB‐rbcL, psbA‐trnH and trnK/matK data sets). The reconstruction revealed that Corynopuntia and Grusonia as currently defined were polyphyletic. Quiabentia, Micropuntia, Pereskiopsis and Cylindropuntia were the only genera recovered as monophyletic. Grusonia s.s. (only including G. bradtiana) is nested in a polytomy with the rest of the species of Corynopuntia. Grusonia s.l. (G. bradtiana plus Corynopuntia) and Corynopuntia as currently defined are polyphyletic because G. pulchella is sister to Pereskiopsis. Some previous taxonomic proposals for Cylindropuntia and Grusonia recognized polyphyletic series and subgenera that do not conform to the strongly supported monophyletic groups here recovered. This study proposes redefining the polyphyletic Grusonia excluding G. pulchella in order to recognize a strongly supported monophyletic genus and the acceptance of a monotypic Micropuntia (G. pulchella) avoiding a new combination into Pereskiopsis. The infrageneric classification for Grusonia is discussed and the recognition of only four monophyletic strongly supported series (Bigelovianae, Imbricatae, Leptocaules and Ramosissimae) for Cylindropuntia is presented.
A large‐scale phylogeny of the lycophyte genusSelaginella(Selaginellaceae: Lycopodiopsida) based on plastid and nuclear loci
Authors: Zhou Xin‐Mao , Rothfels Carl J. , Zhang Liang , He Zhao‐Rong , Le Péchon Timothée , He Hai , Lu Ngan Thi , Knapp Ralf , Lorence David , He Xing‐Jin , Gao Xin‐Fen , Zhang Li‐Bing
Published: August 2015

The lycophyte genusSelaginellaalone constitutes the family Selaginellaceae, the largest of the lycophyte families. The genus is estimated to contain 700–800 species distributed on all continents except Antarctica, with highest species diversity in tropical and subtropical regions. The monophyly ofSelaginellain this broad sense has rarely been doubted, whereas its intrageneric classification has been notoriously contentious. Previous molecular studies were based on very sparse sampling ofSelaginella(up to 62 species) and often usedDNAsequence data from one genome. In the present study,DNAsequences of one plastid (rbcL) and one nuclear (ITS) locus from 394 accessions representing approximately 200 species ofSelaginellaworldwide were used to infer a phylogeny using maximum likelihood, Bayesian inference and maximum parsimony methods. The study identifies strongly supported major clades and well resolves relationships among them. Major results include: (i) six deep‐level clades are discovered representing the deep splits ofSelaginella; and (ii) 20 major clades representing 20 major evolutionary lineages are identified, which differ from one another in molecular, macro‐morphological, ecological and spore features, and/or geographical distribution.
Immediately provisionalized OsseoSpeed™Profile implants inserted into extraction sockets: 3‐year results
Authors: Noelken Robert , Oberhansl Fabienne , Kunkel Martin , Wagner Wilfried
Published: August 2015

Objectives

A sloped shoulder might improve the congruence between extraction socket and dental implant and may add to a better circumferential support of the peri‐implant structures. Therefore, this study evaluates the 3‐year clinical outcome (survival and success rates, marginal bone levels, and Pink Esthetic Score (PES)) of immediately inserted and provisionalized OsseoSpeed™ Profile implants in the anterior maxilla.

Material and methods

Twenty‐one implants were inserted in 16 patients. All implants were immediately placed into extraction sites with and without facial bone deficiencies. A flapless procedure was utilized, and the implants were provisionalized immediately. Facial gaps were grafted with autogenous bone chips from the mandibular ramus. Implant survival and success, the interproximal bone levels, the thickness of the facial bony wall, and the PES were evaluated.

Results

After a mean follow‐up period of 43 months, 19 implants were still in function. One patient with 1 implant did not follow the study protocol (dropout) and 1 implant was lost at 10 weeks. Interproximal marginal bone levels measured −0.2 ± 0.4 mm (range, −1.0–0.4 mm) apical to the implant shoulder. The mean PES ratings were 11.9 ± 1.4 (range, 8–14) at the final examination.

Conclusions

Clinical and radiographic results provide evidence that sloped implants can preserve the marginal bone circumferentially and are able to maintain soft tissue esthetics when inserted and provisionalized immediately, even in the presence of facial bony wall defects.
Cardiac Dysfunction in HIV‐1 Transgenic Mouse: Role of Stress and BAG3
Authors: Cheung Joseph Y. , Gordon Jennifer , Wang JuFang , Song Jianliang , Zhang Xue‐Qian , Tilley Douglas G. , Gao Erhe , Koch Walter J. , Rabinowitz Joseph , Klotman Paul E. , Khalili Kamel , Feldman Arthur M.
Published: August 2015

Since highly active antiretroviral therapy improved long‐term survival of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) patients, AIDS cardiomyopathy has become an increasingly relevant clinical problem. We used human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)‐1 transgenic (Tg26) mouse to explore molecular mechanisms of AIDS cardiomyopathy. Tg26 mice had significantly lower left ventricular (LV) mass and smaller end‐diastolic and end‐systolic LV volumes. Under basal conditions, cardiac contractility and relaxation and single myocyte contraction dynamics were not different between wild‐type (WT) and Tg26 mice. Ten days after open heart surgery, contractility and relaxation remained significantly depressed in Tg26 hearts, suggesting that Tg26 mice did not tolerate surgical stress well. To simulate heart failure in which expression of Bcl2‐associated athanogene 3 (BAG3) is reduced, we down‐regulated BAG3 by small hairpin ribonucleic acid in WT and Tg26 hearts. BAG3 down‐regulation significantly reduced contractility in Tg26 hearts. BAG3 overexpression rescued contractile abnormalities in myocytes expressing the HIV‐1 protein Tat. We conclude: (i) Tg26 mice exhibit normal contractile function at baseline; (ii) Tg26 mice do not tolerate surgical stress well; (iii) BAG3 down‐regulation exacerbated cardiac dysfunction in Tg26 mice; (iv) BAG3 overexpression rescued contractile abnormalities in myocytes expressing HIV‐1 protein Tat; and (v) BAG3 may occupy a role in pathogenesis of AIDS cardiomyopathy.
An Examination of How Supervisors Influence Their Subordinates to Engage in Environmental Behaviors
Authors: Cantor David E. , Morrow Paula C. , Blackhurst Jennifer
Published: August 2015

Employee engagement in environmental behaviors is an important topic in operations management. Drawing upon stakeholder, commitment, and organizational support theories, this study creates and tests an empirical model of how store managers (i.e., supervisors) influence their direct reports (i.e., subordinates) to become engaged in environmental behaviors. Based on a dataset derived from supervisors and their subordinates who are employed at the same grocery store location across a large retail grocery chain, we test our study's nomological model and find support for the linkages proposed. Key research and managerial implications are discussed.
Bridging the Healthcare Access Divide: A Strategic Planning Model for Rural Telemedicine Network
Authors: Ishfaq Rafay , Raja Uzma
Published: August 2015

Balancing access to healthcare and sustaining operational efficiency is a major issue in strategic planning of rural healthcare delivery systems. In this regard, telemedicine is being adopted as a versatile and low cost mechanism for delivering rural healthcare. This article presents a strategic planning model that incorporates different operational and service elements of the rural telemedicine healthcare network. Real‐world data from the rural Black‐belt region in the United States are used in a case study. A novel statistical approach based on decision trees and logistic regression is used to estimate demand of healthcare at the county level. Key issues such as the location of telemedicine health centers, coverage of health services, configuration of medical equipment, and patient travel policies are explored in light of patient demographics, scale of health coverage, and disease prevalence patterns. Results indicate that telemedicine networks can effectively improve healthcare services in rural areas with requisite operational efficiency.
Echocardiography and Cardiac Rupture: Is Contrast Extravasation an Indication for Surgery?
Authors: Katz Jonathan S. , Heching Moshe , Hoffman Darryl M. , Danilov Tatyana , Tranbaugh Robert F.
Published: August 2015

Contrast echocardiography demonstrating microbubbles in the pericardial space has often been cited as evidence of ventricular rupture requiring emergent surgical intervention. We report a case where no myocardial perforation was found during post–myocardial infarction surgery despite prior echocardiographic evidence of contrast extravasation into the pericardial effusion. Clinical decision making requires balancing imaging evidence with clinical circumstances to determine the optimal timing for surgical intervention.
How pervasive is biotic homogenization in human‐modified tropical forest landscapes?
Authors: Solar Ricardo Ribeiro de Castro , Barlow Jos , Ferreira Joice , Berenguer Erika , Lees Alexander C. , Thomson James R. , Louzada Júlio , Maués Márcia , Moura Nárgila G. , Oliveira Victor H. F. , Chaul Júlio C. M. , Schoereder José Henrique , Vieira Ima Célia Guimarães , Mac Nally Ralph , Gardner Toby A.
Published: August 2015

Land‐cover change and ecosystem degradation may lead to biotic homogenization, yet our understanding of this phenomenon over large spatial scales and different biotic groups remains weak. We used a multi‐taxa dataset from 335 sites and 36 heterogeneous landscapes in the Brazilian Amazon to examine the potential for landscape‐scale processes to modulate the cumulative effects of local disturbances. Biotic homogenization was high in production areas but much less in disturbed and regenerating forests, where high levels of among‐site and among‐landscape β‐diversity appeared to attenuate species loss at larger scales. We found consistently high levels of β‐diversity among landscapes for all land cover classes, providing support for landscape‐scale divergence in species composition. Our findings support concerns that β‐diversity has been underestimated as a driver of biodiversity change and underscore the importance of maintaining a distributed network of reserves, including remaining areas of undisturbed primary forest, but also disturbed and regenerating forests, to conserve regional biota.
Memantine elicits spinal blockades of motor function, proprioception, and nociception in rats
Authors: Chen Yu‐Wen , Chiu Chong‐Chi , Liu Kuo‐Sheng , Hung Ching‐Hsia , Wang Jhi‐Joung
Published: August 2015

Although memantine blocks sodium currents and produces local skin anesthesia, spinal anesthesia with memantine is unknown. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the local anesthetic effect of memantine in spinal anesthesia and its comparison with a widely used local anesthetic lidocaine. After intrathecally injecting the rats with five doses of each drug, the dose—response curves of memantine and lidocaine were constructed. The potencies of the drugs and durations of spinal anesthetic effects on motor function, proprioception, and nociception were compared with those of lidocaine. We showed that memantine produced dose‐dependent spinal blockades in motor function, proprioception, and nociception. On a 50% effective dose (ED50) basis, the rank of potency was lidocaine greater than memantine (P < 0.05 for the differences). At the equipotent doses (ED25, ED50, ED75), the block duration produced by memantine was longer than that produced by lidocaine (P < 0.05 for the differences). Memantine, but not lidocaine, displayed more sensory/nociceptive block than motor block. The preclinical data demonstrated that memantine is less potent than lidocaine, whereas memantine produces longer duration of spinal anesthesia than lidocaine. Memantine shows a more sensory‐selective action over motor blockade.
Very high cycle fatigue crack initiation mechanism according to a 3D model of persistent slip bands formation in α‐ferrite
Authors: Wang C. , Wagner D. , Wang Q. , Huang Z. , Bathias C.
Published: August 2015

Many studies on the behaviour of very high cycle fatigue (VHCF) showed that there appear some distinguishable features compared with the low and high cycle fatigue. The understanding of mechanism of fatigue crack initiation in VHCF is very important. In the present work, 1 mm thin sheet specimens on commercial pure iron were employed to perform tests under tension–compression cyclic loading at 20 kHz ultrasonic frequency. In situ observation was carried out with thermal and optical imaging. Local deformation marks on the specimen and the fracture surface near the crack initiation were investigated by scanning electron microscope. A micron abreast pipes 3D model has been constructed to illuminate the damage accumulation of irreversible deformation. It was found that the micron abreast pipes develop during previous cyclic loadings and remain unaffected at the fracture surface. A mechanism was established to explain the relationship between micron abreast pipes and fatigue crack initiation.
Decadally cycling soil carbon is more sensitive to warming than faster‐cycling soil carbon
Authors: Lin Junjie , Zhu Biao , Cheng Weixin
Published: August 2015

The response of soil organic carbon (SOC) pools to globally rising surface temperature crucially determines the feedback between climate change and the global carbon cycle. However, there is a lack of studies investigating the temperature sensitivity of decomposition for decadally cycling SOC which is the main component of total soil carbon stock and the most relevant to global change. We tackled this issue using two decadally 13C‐labeled soils and a much improved measuring system in a long‐term incubation experiment. Results indicated that the temperature sensitivity of decomposition for decadally cycling SOC (>23 years in one soil and >55 years in the other soil) was significantly greater than that for faster‐cycling SOC (<23 or 55 years) or for the entire SOC stock. Moreover, decadally cycling SOC contributed substantially (35–59%) to the total CO2 loss during the 360‐day incubation. Overall, these results indicate that the decomposition of decadally cycling SOC is highly sensitive to temperature change, which will likely make this large SOC stock vulnerable to loss by global warming in the 21st century and beyond.
Nitrogen rate and landscape impacts on life cycle energy use and emissions from switchgrass‐derived ethanol
Authors: Mbonimpa Eric G. , Kumar Sandeep , Owens Vance N. , Chintala Rajesh , Sieverding Heidi L. , Stone James J.
Published: August 2015

Switchgrass‐derived ethanol has been proposed as an alternative to fossil fuels to improve sustainability of the US energy sector. In this study, life cycle analysis (LCA) was used to estimate the environmental benefits of this fuel. To better define the LCA environmental impacts associated with fertilization rates and farm‐landscape topography, results from a controlled experiment were analyzed. Data from switchgrass plots planted in 2008, consistently managed with three nitrogen rates (0, 56, and 112 kg N ha−1), two landscape positions (shoulder and footslope), and harvested annually (starting in 2009, the year after planting) through 2014 were used as input into the Greenhouse gases, Regulated Emissions and Energy use in transportation (GREET) model. Simulations determined nitrogen (N) rate and landscape impacts on the life cycle energy and emissions from switchgrass ethanol used in a passenger car as ethanol–gasoline blends (10% ethanol:E10, 85% ethanol:E85s). Results indicated that E85s may lead to lower fossil fuels use (58 to 77%), greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions (33 to 82%), and particulate matter (PM2.5) emissions (15 to 54%) in comparison with gasoline. However, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other criteria pollutants such as nitrogen oxides (NOx), particulate matter (PM10), and sulfur dioxides (SOx) were higher for E85s than those from gasoline. Nitrogen rate above 56 kg N ha−1 yielded no increased biomass production benefits; but did increase (up to twofold) GHG, VOCs, and criteria pollutants. Lower blend (E10) results were closely similar to those from gasoline. The landscape topography also influenced life cycle impacts. Biomass grown at the footslope of fertilized plots led to higher switchgrass biomass yield, lower GHG, VOCs, and criteria pollutants in comparison with those at the shoulder position. Results also showed that replacing switchgrass before maximum stand life (10–20 years.) can further reduce the energy and emissions reduction benefits.
Simulation of greenhouse gases following land‐use change to bioenergy crops using the ECOSSE model: a comparison between site measurements and model predictions
Authors: Dondini Marta , Richards Mark I. A. , Pogson Mark , McCalmont Jon , Drewer Julia , Marshall Rachel , Morrison Ross , Yamulki Sirwan , Harris Zoe M. , Alberti Giorgio , Siebicke Lukas , Taylor Gail , Perks Mike , Finch Jon , McNamara Niall P. , Smith Joanne U. , Smith Pete
Published: August 2015

This article evaluates the suitability of the ECOSSE model to estimate soil greenhouse gas (GHG) fluxes from short rotation coppice willow (SRC‐Willow), short rotation forestry (SRF‐Scots Pine) and Miscanthus after land‐use change from conventional systems (grassland and arable). We simulate heterotrophic respiration (Rh), nitrous oxide (N2O) and methane (CH4) fluxes at four paired sites in the UK and compare them to estimates of Rh derived from the ecosystem respiration estimated from eddy covariance (EC) and Rh estimated from chamber (IRGA) measurements, as well as direct measurements of N2O and CH4 fluxes. Significant association between modelled and EC‐derived Rh was found under Miscanthus, with correlation coefficient (r) ranging between 0.54 and 0.70. Association between IRGA‐derived Rh and modelled outputs was statistically significant at the Aberystwyth site (r = 0.64), but not significant at the Lincolnshire site (r = 0.29). At all SRC‐Willow sites, significant association was found between modelled and measurement‐derived Rh (0.44 ≤ r ≤ 0.77); significant error was found only for the EC‐derived Rh at the Lincolnshire site. Significant association and no significant error were also found for SRF‐Scots Pine and perennial grass. For the arable fields, the modelled CO2 correlated well just with the IRGA‐derived Rh at one site (r = 0.75). No bias in the model was found at any site, regardless of the measurement type used for the model evaluation. Across all land uses, fluxes of CH4 and N2O were shown to represent a small proportion of the total GHG balance; these fluxes have been modelled adequately on a monthly time‐step. This study provides confidence in using ECOSSE for predicting the impacts of future land use on GHG balance, at site level as well as at national level.
A Continuous Static‐Mixer‐Based Reactor for Preparing Calcium Phosphate Bioceramics
Authors: Lee Sheng‐Yang , Hu Hsin‐Tai , Liang Chia‐Jung , Teng Nai‐Chia , Yang Jen‐Chang
Published: August 2015

The common methods for synthesizing calcium phosphates include solid‐state reaction, hydrothermal, sol–gel, and wet precipitation. The purpose of this study was to prepare various calcium phosphate bioceramics through a continuous reactor equipped with a static mixer. The precursors, amorphous calcium phosphate (ACP), and poor crystal hydroxyapatite (PC‐HAp) were prepared using calcium and phosphate ion‐containing solutions by adjusting the pH and the [Ca]/[P] input ratio. The phase transformation from precursors to HAp, alpha‐tricalcium phosphates (α‐TCP), beta‐tricalcium phosphate (β‐TCP), or biphasic calcium phosphate (BCP) was dependent on the sintering temperature.
Compositions and antioxidant properties of protein hydrolysates from the skins of four carp species
Authors: Wu Xiaosa , Cai Luyun , Zhang Yuhao , Mi Hongbo , Cheng Xuanru , Li Jianrong
Published: August 2015

Compositions and antioxidant properties of protein hydrolysates prepared from four carp skins: black carp, grass carp, silver carp and bighead carp, using pepsin, with a degree of hydrolysis (DH) of 6–15%, were investigated. The yield of freeze‐dried hydrolysates was in the range of 54–62 g/100 g (dry skin). The content of protein and ash in four freeze‐dried hydrolysates was 72–81% and 8–17%, respectively. All hydrolysates contained high amount of hydrophobic amino acid residues (389–480 residues/1000 residues). Meanwhile, their antioxidant properties were evaluated by in vitro assays. The results revealed that all hydrolysates possessed potent antioxidant activities and showed dose dependency as the activity increased with sample concentration, capable of scavenging 72–88% of DPPH and 61–69% of hydroxyl radicals, respectively, at the highest tested concentration. The hydrolysates exhibited high reducing power and β‐carotene–linoleic acid oxidation inhibition. Among the four hydrolysates, the hydrolysate derived from bighead carp skin was superior to others in terms of yield, DH and antioxidant activities.
Long‐term quality of life outcomes and retreatment rates after robotic sacrocolpopexy
Authors: Linder Brian J , Chow George K , Elliott Daniel S
Published: August 2015

Objective

To evaluate the long‐term outcomes and potential predictors of treatment failure after robotic sacrocolpopexy.

Methods

We identified 70 consecutive patients from 2002 to 2012 with symptomatic post‐hysterectomy vaginal vault prolapse that underwent robotic sacrocolpopexy. Multiple clinical and surgical variables were evaluated for potential association with treatment failure, which was defined as any repeat operation for recurrent prolapse or mesh‐related complications.

Results

The median age at surgery was 67 years (interquartile range 59–74 years) and median follow up was 72 months (interquartile range 39–114 months). Overall, six out of 70 patients (8.6%) underwent a total of six secondary surgeries, including four for recurrent prolapse (two anterior repairs, one posterior repair, one apical) and two mesh complications. No patient‐related factors were associated with the risk of repeat surgery: age (P = 0.45), diabetes mellitus (P = 0.24), tobacco use (P = 0.61) or prior prolapse surgery (P = 0.1) on univariate analysis. Freedom from repeat prolapse surgery or surgery for mesh complication was 98% at 1 year, 95% at 3 years and 90% at 6 years. At last follow up, 80% of patients reported that they would or probably would recommend robotic sacrocolpopexy to a family member or friend.

Conclusions

Robotic sacrocolpopexy is associated with excellent long‐term outcomes. Recognition of long‐term success is important for preoperative patient counseling.
Chrono‐immunology: progress and challenges in understanding links between the circadian and immune systems
Authors: Geiger Sarah S. , Fagundes Caio T. , Siegel Richard M.
Published: August 2015

Development of inflammatory diseases, such as metabolic syndrome and cancer, is prevalent in individuals that encounter continuous disruption of their internal clock. Further, daily oscillations in susceptibility to infection as well as a multitude of other immunological processes have been described. Much progress has been made and various mechanisms have been proposed to explain circadian variations in immunity; yet much is still unknown. Understanding the crosstalk between the circadian and the immune systems will allow us to manipulate clock outputs to prevent and treat inflammatory diseases in individuals at risk. This review briefly summarizes current knowledge about circadian rhythms and their role in the immune system and highlights progress and challenges in chrono‐immunological research.
Raiders of the Lost Art: A review of published evaluations of inpatient mental health care experiences emanating from the United Kingdom, Portugal, Canada, Switzerland, Germany and Australia
Authors: Cutcliffe John R. , Santos Jose Carlos , Kozel Bernd , Taylor Petrea , Lees David
Published: August 2015

Forming interpersonal therapeutic relationships with mental health Service Users remains a key aspect of the practice of Psychiatric/Mental Health nurses. Given the omnipresence of the concept within the relevant literature the reader could be forgiven for asking: why would Psychiatric/Mental Health nurses opine about something so basic, so ubiquitous and so central to the theory and practice of our discipline? While the authors could locate no substantive argument that refutes the role or value of such relationships, a sizable, growing and reasonably consistent body of work has emerged, which appears to indicate that this centrality and value is not necessarily reflected in many clinical practice settings. Accordingly, we draw on the published evaluations of mental health care emanating from the United Kingdom, Portugal, Canada, Switzerland, Germany and Australia, compare these findings and highlight similarities or/and congruence and discuss a range of issues arising out of the findings. Alas, the findings seem to depict a mental health care inpatient experience that is often devoid of warm therapeutic relationships, respectful interactions, information or choice about treatment and any kind of formal/informal ‘talk therapy’. Instead such care experiences are personified by: coercion, disinterest, inhumane practices, custodial and controlling practitioners and a gross over use of pharmacological ‘treatments’.
Molybdenum Mass Fractions and Isotopic Compositions of International Geological Reference Materials
Authors: Zhao Pei‐Pei , Li Jie , Zhang Le , Wang Zhi‐Bing , Kong De‐Xin , Ma Jin‐Long , Wei Gang‐Jian , Xu Ji‐Feng
Published: August 2015

The double‐spike method with multi‐collector inductively coupled plasma‐mass spectrometry was used to measure the Mo mass fractions and isotopic compositions of a set of geological reference materials including the mineral molybdenite, seawater, coral, as well as igneous and sedimentary rocks. The long‐term reproducibility of the Mo isotopic measurements, based on two‐year analyses of NIST SRM 3134 reference solutions and seawater samples, was ≤ 0.07‰ (two standard deviations, 2s, n = 167) for δ98/95Mo. Accuracy was evaluated by analyses of Atlantic seawater, which yielded a mean δ98/95Mo of 2.03 ± 0.06‰ (2s, n = 30, relative to NIST SRM 3134 = 0‰) and mass fraction of 0.0104 ± 0.0006 μg g−1 (2s, n = 30), which is indistinguishable from seawater samples taken world‐wide and measured in other laboratories. The comprehensive data set presented in this study serves as a reference for quality assurance and interlaboratory comparison of high‐precision Mo mass fractions and isotopic compositions.