bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Laparoscopic versus Open Surgery in Complicated Appendicitis in Children Less Than 5 Years Old: A Six-Year Single-Centre Experience
Authors: Guanà R. , Lonati L. , Garofalo S. , Tommasoni N. , Ferrero L. , Cerrina A. , Lemini R. , Dallan C. , Schleef J.
Published: September 2016

Introduction. Acute appendicitis is the most common surgical emergency in the pediatric population. The peak incidence occurs in the first decade of life, while it is uncommon to face appendicitis in children younger than 5 years of age. Laparoscopy is now demonstrated to be the optimal approach also to treat complicated appendicitis, but in very young children this standardized operation is not always easy to perform.Material and Methods. From January 2009 to December 2015 we operated on 525 acute appendicitis, with 120 patients less than 5 years of age.Results. 90 children had a complicated appendicitis (localized or diffuse peritonitis): 43 (48%) were operated on by open approach and 47 (52%) by laparoscopy. The overall incidence of postoperative complications was greater in the open appendectomy group (63% versus 26%) and all severe complications requiring reintervention (6% of cases: 3 postoperative abscesses resolved with ultrasound guided percutaneous abscess drainage; 1 tubal surgery for salpingitis; 1 adhesion-related ileus requiring relaparotomy) were mostly associated with open surgery.Conclusions. Laparoscopic surgery resulted as the best approach for treating complicated appendicitis also in younger children, with minor and less severe postoperative complications compared to open surgery.
Plant‐Derived Agents for Counteracting Cisplatin‐Induced Nephrotoxicity
Authors: Ojha Shreesh , Venkataraman Balaji , Kurdi Amani , Mahgoub Eglal , Sadek Bassem , Rajesh Mohanraj
Published: September 2016

Cisplatin (CSP) is a chemotherapeutic agent commonly used to treat a variety of malignancies. The major setback with CSP treatment is that its clinical efficacy is compromised by its induction of organ toxicity, particular to the kidneys and ears. Despite the significant strides that have been made in understanding the mechanisms underlying CSP‐induced renal toxicity, advances in developing renoprotective strategies are still lacking. In addition, the renoprotective approaches described in the literature reveal partial amelioration of CSP‐induced renal toxicity, stressing the need to develop potent combinatorial/synergistic agents for the mitigation of renal toxicity. However, the ideal renoprotective adjuvant should not interfere with the anticancer efficacy of CSP. In this review, we have discussed the progress made in utilizing plant‐derived agents (phytochemicals) to combat CSP‐induced nephrotoxicity in preclinical studies. Furthermore, we have also presented strategies to utilize phytochemicals as prototypes for the development of novel renoprotective agents for counteracting chemotherapy‐induced renal damage.
Fabrication of U-10 wt.%Zr Metallic Fuel Rodlets for Irradiation Test in BOR-60 Fast Reactor
Authors: Kim Ki-Hwan , Kim Jong-Hwan , Oh Seok-Jin , Lee Jung-Won , Lee Ho-Jin , Lee Chan-Bock
Published: September 2016

The fabrication technology for metallic fuel has been developed to produce the driver fuel in a PGSFR in Korea since 2007. In order to evaluate the irradiation integrity and validate the in-reactor of the starting metallic fuel with FMS cladding for the loading of the metallic fuel, U-10 wt.%Zr fuel rodlets were fabricated and evaluated for a verification of the starting driver fuel through an irradiation test in the BOR-60 fast reactor. The injection casting method was applied to U-10 wt.%Zr fuel slugs with a diameter of 5.5 mm. Consequently, fuel slugs per melting batch without casting defects were fabricated through the development of advanced casting technology and evaluation tests. The optimal GTAW welding conditions were also established through a number of experiments. In addition, a qualification test was carried out to prove the weld quality of the end plug welding of the metallic fuel rodlets. The wire wrapping of metallic fuel rodlets was successfully accomplished for the irradiation test. Thus, PGSFR fuel rodlets have been soundly fabricated for the irradiation test in a BOR-60 fast reactor.
New Mechanism on Synergistic Effect of Nitrite and Triethanolamine Addition on the Corrosion of Ductile Cast Iron
Authors: Kim K. T. , Chang H. Y. , Lim B. T. , Park H. B. , Kim Y. S.
Published: September 2016

In general, we compared the different inhibition mechanisms of organic inhibitor with that of anodic inhibitor. When triethanolamine or nitrite was added separately to tap water for inhibiting the corrosion of ductile cast iron, large amounts of inhibitor were needed. This is because the corrosion inhibitors had to overcome the galvanic corrosion that occurs between graphite and matrix. In this work, we investigated the corrosion of ductile cast iron in tap water with/without inhibitors. The corrosion rate was measured using chemical immersion test and electrochemical methods, including anodic polarization test. The inhibited surface was analyzed using EPMA and XPS. Test solutions were analyzed by performing FT-IR measurement. When triethanolamine and nitrite coexisted in tap water, synergistic effect built up, and the inhibition effect wasca.30 times more effective than witnessed with single addition. This work focused on the synergistic effect brought about by nitrite and triethanolamine and its novel mechanism was also proposed.
The Effect of Kanamycin and Tetracycline on Growth and Photosynthetic Activity of Two Chlorophyte Algae
Authors: Bashir Khawaja Muhammad Imran , Cho Man-Gi
Published: September 2016

Antibiotics are routinely used in microalgae culture screening, stock culture maintenance, and genetic transformation. By studying the effect of antibiotics on microalgae growth, we can estimate the least value to inhibit growth of undesired pathogens in algal culture. We studied the effect of kanamycin and tetracycline on the growth and photosynthetic activity of two chlorophyte microalgae,Dictyosphaerium pulchellumandMicractinium pusillum.We measured CFU mL−1on agar plates, optical density, fluorescence yields, and photosynthetic inhibition. Our results showed a significant effect ofkanandteton the tested microalgae species excepttet,which showed a minor effect onM. pusillum.Both antibiotics are believed to interact with the protein synthesis machinery; hence, the inhibitory effect of the tested antibiotics was further confirmed by isolation and quantification of the whole cell protein. A significant reduction in protein quantity was observed at concentrations more than 5 mg L−1, exceptM. pusillum, which showed only a slight reduction in protein quantity even at the maximum tested concentration oftet(30 mg L−1). This study can further aid in aquaculture industry, for the maintenance of the microalgae stock cultures and it can also help the microalgae genetic engineers in the construction of molecular markers.
Structural and Histochemical Alterations in the Aortic Valves of Elderly Patients: A Comparative Study of Aortic Stenosis, Aortic Regurgitation, and Normal Valves
Authors: Miura Katsutoshi , Katoh Hideki
Published: September 2016

The aim of this study was to reveal the pathogenesis of aortic stenosis (AS) and regurgitation (AR) by comparing differences in mechanical and biochemical alterations. We applied scanning acoustic microscopy (SAM) to measure the speed of sound (SOS) through valves to estimate the elasticity and monitor sensitivity to protease treatment, as the SOS is correlated with the stiffness of materials, which is reduced after digestion by proteases. The fibrosa of both the AS and AR groups were stiffer than the fibrosa of the normal group. The AR group displayed significantly stiffer fibrosa than the AS group, with the exception of calcified areas. The AS group showed significantly decreased SOS values following protease digestion, whereas the AR showed little reduction. The AS group presented type III collagen in the fibrosa and the ventricularis. In the AR group, both type I collagen and type III collagen coexisted in the fibrosa and the ventricularis. Upon immunostaining for advanced glycation end-products, the AS group showed sparse, weak staining, whereas the AR group presented a strong, band-like positive reaction in the fibrosa. In conclusion, tissue remodelling associated with damage and repair is associated with AS pathogenesis, whereas static chemical alterations with slow collagen turnover induce AR.
Performance Characterisation of a Hybrid Flat-Plate Vacuum Insulated Photovoltaic/Thermal Solar Power Module in Subtropical Climate
Authors: Oyieke Andrew Y. A. , Inambao Freddie L.
Published: September 2016

A flat-plate Vacuum Insulated Photovoltaic and Thermal (VIPV/T) system has been thermodynamically simulated and experimentally evaluated to assess the thermal and electrical performance as well as energy conversion efficiencies under a subtropical climate. A simulation model made of specified components is developed in Transient Systems (TRNSYS) environment into which numerical energy balance equations are implemented. The influence of vacuum insulation on the system’s electrical and thermal yields has been evaluated using temperatures, current, voltage, and power flows over daily and annual cycles under local meteorological conditions. The results from an experiment conducted under steady-state conditions in Durban, South Africa, are compared with the simulation based on the actual daily weather data. The VIPV/T has shown improved overall and thermal efficiencies of 9.5% and 16.8%, respectively, while electrical efficiency marginally reduced by 0.02% compared to the conventional PV/T. The simulated annual overall efficiency of 29% (i.e., 18% thermal and 11% electrical) has been realised, in addition to the solar fraction, overall exergy, and primary energy saving efficiencies of 39%, 29%, and 27%, respectively.
Tracheal Lobular Capillary Haemangioma: A Rare Benign Cause of Recurrent Haemoptysis
Authors: Acharya Metesh Nalin , Kotidis Konstantinos , Loubani Mahmoud
Published: September 2016

Lobular capillary haemangioma (LCH), previously known as pyogenic granuloma, is a benign vascular lesion commonly found within the oral and nasal cavity. However, it is rarely encountered within the trachea, where presenting features include recurrent haemoptysis, cough, and wheeze. We here describe a case of a 7 mm tracheal LCH in a 56-year-old woman, which was successfully resected at interventional bronchoscopy using biopsy forceps. Clinicians should be aware of tracheal LCH in the differential diagnosis for recurrent haemoptysis.
Two Extension Block Kirschner Wires’ Technique for Bony Mallet Thumb
Authors: Mifune Yutaka , Inui Atsuyuki , Takase Fumiaki , Ueda Yasuhiro , Shinohara Issei , Kuroda Ryosuke , Kokubu Takeshi
Published: September 2016

Mallet fingers with an avulsion fracture of the distal phalanx or rupture of the terminal tendon of the extensor mechanism is known as a common injury, while mallet thumb is very rare. In this paper, the case of a 19-year-old woman with a sprained left thumb sustained while playing basketball is presented. Plain radiographs and computed tomography revealed an avulsion fracture involving more than half of the articular surface at the base of the distal phalanx. Closed reduction and percutaneous fixation were performed using the two extension block Kirschner wires’ technique under digital block anesthesia. At 4 months postoperatively, the patient had achieved excellent results according to Crawford’s evaluation criteria and had no difficulties in working or playing basketball. Various conservative and operative treatment strategies have been reported for management of mallet thumb. We chose the two extension block Kirschner wires’ technique to minimize invasion of the extensor mechanism and nail bed and to stabilize the large fracture fragment.
Review of Neurobiologically Based Mobile Robot Navigation System Research Performed Since 2000
Authors: Zeno Peter J. , Patel Sarosh , Sobh Tarek M.
Published: September 2016

In an attempt to better understand how the navigation part of the brain works and to possibly create smarter and more reliable navigation systems, many papers have been written in the field of biomimetic systems. This paper presents a literature survey of state-of-the-art research performed since the year 2000 on rodent neurobiological and neurophysiologically based navigation systems that incorporate models of spatial awareness and navigation brain cells. The main focus is to explore the functionality of the cognitive maps developed in these mobile robot systems with respect to route planning, as well as a discussion/analysis of the computational complexity required to scale these systems.
A Revision of the Selenocosmiine Tarantula GenusPhlogiellusPocock 1897 (Araneae: Theraphosidae), with Description of 4 New Species
Authors: Nunn Steven C. , West Rick C. , Von Wirth Volker
Published: September 2016

The tarantula genusPhlogiellus(Pocock 1897) is revised. The genus is diagnosed against all other selenocosmiine genera for the first time along with a new generic description. The tribe Yamiini (Kishida 1920) is diagnosed against all other selenocosmiine tribes. AllPhlogiellusspecies are diagnosed from all congeners; all species are mapped. Complete dichotomous keys for both sexes of all species are included. Where appropriate, intraspecific variation is discussed. Four new species are described:P. bogadekisp. nov. from Hong Kong,P. johnreylazoisp. nov. from Palawan Island, Philippines,P. moniqueverdezaesp. nov. from Ranong, Thailand, andP. pelidnussp. nov. from Sabah, Borneo. The type speciesP. atriceps(Pocock 1897) holotype male is redescribed and the maleP. baeri(Simon 1877) is described in detail for the first time. The validity ofP. inermis(Ausserer 1871) is confirmed. Relationships between all known selenocosmiine genera andPhlogiellusfrom the Philippines are discussed and several character traits are newly diagnosed. The tribe Phlogiellini (West et al. 2012) is a junior synonym of Yamiini (Kishida 1920).Selenocosmia orophila(Thorell 1897) from Myanmar,Selenocosmia insulana(Hirst 1909) from Djampea (= Jampea) Island, andSelenocosmia obscura(Hirst 1909) from Sarawak, Borneo, are transferred toPhlogiellus, altering the specific names toPhlogiellus orophilus(Thorell 1897) comb. nov.,Phlogiellus insulanus(Hirst 1909) comb. nov., andPhlogiellus obscurus(Hirst 1909) comb. nov.Phlogiellus subarmatus(Thorell 1891) is transferred toChilobrachys(Karsch 1891), becomingChilobrachys subarmatus(Thorell 1891) comb. nov.Phlogiellus kwebaburdeos(Barrion-Dupo et al., 2014) is transferred toOrphnaecus(Simon 1892), becomingOrphnaecus kwebaburdeos(Barrion-Dupo et al., 2014) comb. nov.Phlogiellus ornatus(Thorell 1897) andPhlogiellus nebulosus(Rainbow 1899) are consideredspecies inquirenda.Phlogiellus baeri(Simon 1877) is no longer consideredincertae sedis;Phlogiellus bicolor(Strand 1911) andPhlogiellus insularis(Simon 1877) are consideredincertae sedis.
Successful Delivery in a 39-Year-Old Patient with Anal Cancer after Fertility-Preserving Surgery Followed by Primary Chemoradiation and Low Anti-Mullerian Hormone Level
Authors: Köhler Christhardt , Marnitz Simone , Biel Peter , Cordes Tim
Published: September 2016

Anal cancer was diagnosed in a 36-year-old nulliparous woman. Before chemoradiation was started, ovarian transposition and uterine fixation were performed in order to preserve capability for future parenthood. Despite of a low anti-Mullerian hormone level, IVF therapy was successful and resulted in a full-term delivery of a healthy baby by cesarean section. This is the first case report of successful pregnancy after full-dose pelvic radiation for anal cancer.
Putative Tumor Suppressor Genes EGR1 and BRSK1 Are Mutated in Gastric and Colorectal Cancers
Authors: Choi Eun Ji , Yoo Nam Jin , Kim Min Sung , An Chang Hyeok , Lee Sug Hyung
Published: September 2016

Objective: The transcription factor-encoding EGR1 and the kinase-encoding BRSK1 are considered putative tumor suppressor genes (TSGs). However, EGR1 and BRSK1 mutations that could inactivate their functions are not reported in colorectal (CRC) and gastric (GC) cancers. Methods: There are mononucleotide repeats in EGR1 and BRSK1, which could be mutated in cancers with defects in mismatch repair, resulting in microsatellite instability (MSI). We analyzed 124 CRCs and 79 GCs for mutations and their intratumoral heterogeneities (ITHs). Results: Twenty-one out of 79 CRCs (26.6%) and 5 out of 34 GCs (14.7%) carrying high MSI (MSI-H) exhibited frameshift mutations. However, we found no such mutations in cancers with microsatellite stability. In addition, we studied ITH for these mutations in 16 cases of CRCs and observed that EGR1 and BRSK1 mutations exhibited ITH in 3 (18.8%) and 2 (12.5%) cases, respectively. Conclusion: Our data in this study reveal that the TSG genes EGR1 and BRSK1 carry mutational ITH as well as frameshift mutations in MSI-H CRC and GC, which together may be features of GC and CRC with MSI-H. These results suggest that frameshift mutations of EGR1 and BRSK1 might play a role in tumorigenesis through TSG inactivation in CRC and GC.
Rituximab in Membranous Nephropathy: Not All Studies Are Created Equal
Authors: Cravedi Paolo
Published: September 2016

Many prospective studies and a recent randomized controlled trial have shown that the B-cell-depleting monoclonal antibody, rituximab, safely promotes the remission of nephrotic syndrome in approximately 65% of patients with membranous nephropathy (MN). Mechanistic studies have indicated that rituximab-induced proteinuria reduction is associated with clearance of anti-podocyte antigens phospholipase 2 receptor autoantibodies and subepithelial immune complexes, the hallmarks of the disease. A recently published study reported results which, at first sight, looked less favorable and implied that, due to a publication bias against negative results, the efficacy of rituximab in MN might be overestimated. Since patients received only one or 2 rituximab administrations, the authors suggest that when rituximab is used, higher doses and longer treatments should be considered. In this study, we highlight limitations of the study and warn against an oversimplified interpretation of the data. Though information on the optimal dose of rituximab to use in MN is still limited, available data from studies with predefined rituximab administration protocols collectively support the concept of titrating rituximab to the number of circulating B-cells that are invariably depleted after the first or second administration. Additional doses may increase the risk of adverse effects and related costs without augmenting efficacy. Importantly, underpowered studies with inconclusive results should not be confused with negative studies formally proving a neutral effect of a treatment. Until data from ad hoc designed clinical trials are available, the B-cell-driven protocol should be the preferred regimen, since it is similarly effective, but safer and more cost effective than other protocols employing multiple rituximab administrations.
Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenocortical Dysfunction in Elderly, Male Marathon Runners: Feedback Sensitivity, Stress Response, and Effects on Verbal Memory
Authors: Deuschle Michael , Gotthardt Ulrike , Schweiger Ulrich , Dettling Michael , Holsboer Florian , Heuser Isabella
Published: September 2016

Animal studies suggest that repeated episodes of elevated glucocorticoids lead to a dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) system at a suprapituitary level, and to impaired mnemonic function. We compared cognitive tests, as well as feedback integrity and stress responsivity of the HPA system, between 11 elderly, male marathon runners - a model of repeated HPA system activation - and 10 sedentary controls. The marathon runners had significantly increased baseline, stress, and post-stress ACTH - but not cortisol - concentrations. Also, suppression of ACTH by 3 mg dexamethasone was impaired in the athletes compared to the control subjects, while the ACTH and cortisol response to additional CRH did not differ between the 2 groups. Finally, long-term verbal memory was impaired in the athletes compared to the controls. Regarding the HPA system, these findings are in accordance with an acquired suprapituitary feedback disturbance in marathon runners; however, the similar glucocorticoid concentrations in the 2 groups may be due to reduced adrenal sensitivity to ACTH. Together with impaired verbal memory, these data support the assumption that repeated episodes of HPA system activity may exert negative effects at the level of the hippocampus.
Recent records and distribution of the Indian Brown Mongoose Herpestes fuscus Gray, 1837 (Mammalia: Carnivora: Herpestidae) from the southern Western Ghats, India
Authors: Sreehari R. , Das Sandeep , Gnanakumar M. , Rajkumar K. P. , Sreejith K. A. , Kishor Navaneeth , Bhaskar Dhaneesh , Easa P. S. , Nameer P. O.
Published: September 2016

We are reporting four new records of Brown Mongoose Herpestes fuscus Gray, 1837 from four protected areas in Western Ghats including Peppara Wildlife Sanctuary, Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary, Periyar Tiger Reserve and Pampadum Shola National Park and one new site record outside a protected area from Pambanar Tea plantation in Idukki dt. situated in Kerala part of southern Western Ghats. An updated distribution map of Brown Mongoose in Western Ghats is presented here.
Influence of Late Vascular Inflammation on Long‐Term Outcomes Among Patients Undergoing Implantation of Drug Eluting Stents: Role of C‐Reactive Protein
Authors: Shiba Masanori , Itaya Hideki , Iijima Raisuke , Nakamura Masato
Published: September 2016

Background

Elevation of C‐reactive protein (
CRP
) as a marker of vascular inflammation at a late phase of drug‐eluting stent (
DES
) implantation may predict subsequent major adverse cardiac events (
MACE
).

Methods and Results

In 1234 consecutive patients undergoing
DES
implantation,
CRP
was measured both before (baseline) and 8 to 12 months after (late phase) stenting, and the relationship between elevation of
CRP
(>2.0 mg/L) and subsequent
MACE
(all cause death, nonfatal myocardial infarction, target lesion revascularization, and other additional revascularization) was assessed. As results,
CRP
was elevated in 38.0% of patients at baseline and in 23.6% during late phase (
P
<0.0001), and hazard ratio (
HR
) for
MACE
was 1.52 (95% confidence interval [95%
CI
] 1.21–1.93,
P
=0.0004) at baseline versus 4.00 (95%
CI
3.16–5.05,
P
<0.0001) in late phase. By multivariable analysis, late‐phase
CRP
elevation (
HR
3.60, 95%
CI
: 2.78–4.68,
P
<0.0001), chronic kidney disease (
CKD
) (
HR
1.41, 95%
CI
: 1.10–1.84,
P
=0.01), and number of diseased segments (
HR
1.19, 95%
CI
: 1.08–1.30,
P
=0.0002) were positive predictors of
MACE
, whereas statin use (
HR
0.66, 95%
CI
0.50–0.87,
P
=0.003) was a negative predictor. Propensity score–matched analysis also confirmed the effect of late‐phase
CRP
on
MACE
(
HR
3.39, 95%
CI
2.52–4.56,
P
<0.0001). In prediction of the late‐phase
CRP
elevation,
CKD
(odds ratio [
OR
] 1.71, 95%
CI
1.24–2.36,
P
=0.001) and baseline
CRP
elevation (
OR
3.48, 95%
CI
2.55–4.74,
P
<0.0001) were positive predictors, whereas newer generation
DES
(
OR
0.59, 95%
CI
0.41–0.84,
P
=0.003) and statin therapy (
OR
0.68, 95%
CI
0.47–0.97,
P
=0.03) were negative predictors.

Conclusions

Monitoring the late‐phase
CRP
may be helpful to identify a high‐risk subset for
MACE
among patients undergoing
DES
implantation.
Metabolic Signature of Remote Ischemic Preconditioning Involving a Cocktail of Amino Acids and Biogenic Amines
Authors: Chao de la Barca Juan Manuel , Bakhta Oussama , Kalakech Hussein , Simard Gilles , Tamareille Sophie , Catros Véronique , Callebert Jacques , Gadras Cédric , Tessier Lydie , Reynier Pascal , Prunier Fabrice , Mirebeau‐Prunier Delphine
Published: September 2016

Background

Remote ischemic preconditioning (RIPC) is an attractive therapeutic procedure for protecting the heart against ischemia/reperfusion injury. Despite evidence of humoral mediators transported through the circulation playing a critical role, their actual identities so far remain unknown. We sought to identify plasmatic RIPC‐induced metabolites that may play a role.

Methods and Results

Rat plasma samples from RIPC and control groups were analyzed using a targeted metabolomic approach aimed at measuring 188 metabolites. Principal component analysis and orthogonal partial least‐squares discriminant analysis were used to identify the metabolites that discriminated between groups. Plasma samples from 50 patients subjected to RIPC were secondarily explored to confirm the results obtained in rats. Finally, a combination of the metabolites that were significantly increased in both rat and human plasma was injected prior to myocardial ischemia/reperfusion in rats. In the rat samples, 124 molecules were accurately quantified. Six metabolites (ornithine, glycine, kynurenine, spermine, carnosine, and serotonin) were the most significant variables for marked differentiation between the RIPC and control groups. In human plasma, analysis confirmed ornithine decrease and kynurenine and glycine increase following RIPC. Injection of the glycine and kynurenine alone or in combination replicated the protective effects of RIPC seen in rats.

Conclusions

We have hereby reported significant variations in a cocktail of amino acids and biogenic amines after remote ischemic preconditioning in both rat and human plasma.

Clinical Trial Registration

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT01390129.
Detection of Atrial Fibrillation Among Patients With Stroke Due to Large or Small Vessel Disease: A Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Demeestere Jelle , Fieuws Steffen , Lansberg Maarten G. , Lemmens Robin
Published: September 2016

Background

Recent trials have demonstrated that extended cardiac monitoring increases the yield of paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (
AF
) detection in patients with cryptogenic stroke. The utility of extended cardiac monitoring is uncertain among patients with stroke caused by small and large vessel disease. We conducted a meta‐analysis to estimate the yield of
AF
detection in this population.

Methods and Results

We searched PubMed, Cochrane, and
SCOPUS
databases for studies on
AF
detection in stroke patients and excluded studies restricted to patients with cryptogenic stroke or transient ischemic attack. We abstracted
AF
detection rates for 3 populations grouped by stroke etiology: large vessel stroke, small vessel stroke, and stroke of undefined etiology (a mixture of cryptogenic, small vessel, large vessel, and other stroke etiologies). Our search yielded 30 studies (n=5687).
AF
detection rates were similar in patients with large vessel (2.2%, 95%
CI
0.3–5.5; n=830) and small vessel stroke (2.4%, 95%
CI
0.4–6.1; n=520). No studies had a monitoring duration longer than 7 days. The yield of
AF
detection in the undefined stroke population was higher (9.2%; 95%
CI
7.1–11.5) compared to small vessel stroke (
P
=0.02) and large vessel stroke (
P
=0.02) populations.

Conclusions

AF
detection rate is similar in patients with small and large vessel strokes (2.2–2.4%). Because no studies reported on extended monitoring (>7 days) in these stroke populations, we could not estimate the yield of
AF
detection with long‐term cardiac monitoring. Randomized controlled trials are needed to examine the utility of
AF
detection with long‐term cardiac monitoring (>7 days) in this patient population.
Science, Race, and Empire
Authors: Gingrich Andre
Published: September 2016

This overview of academic ethnography in the last decades of the Habsburg Empire is given through the example of Vienna as the Empire’s capital. Ethnography is scrutinized in its main dimensions through the four decades from the 1870s till after the end of World War i. Main trends, crucial phases, and key actors are identified and characterized to assess the roles of notions of race and racism. The overall period is marked by the emergence and formal establishment of an internally heterogeneous academic discipline called “Anthropologie und Ethnographie” (anthropology and ethnography). This took place along three main phases with different priorities and main actors. During that period, “Anthropologie und Ethnographie” was perceived as a more or less unified field of research—in institutional terms at first at the natural history museum since its opening in 1876, and later also at the University of Vienna as of 1912/13.
Generalized Patched Potential Density and Thermodynamic Neutral Density: Two New Physically Based Quasi-Neutral Density Variables for Ocean Water Masses Analyses and Circulation Studies
Authors: Tailleux Rémi
Published: September 2016

In this paper, two new quasi-neutral density variables—generalized patched potential density (GPPD) and thermodynamic neutral density γT—are introduced, which are showed to approximate Jackett and McDougall empirical neutral density γn significantly better than the quasi-material rational polynomial approximation γa previously introduced by McDougall and Jackett. In contrast to γn, γT is easily and efficiently computed for arbitrary climatologies of temperature and salinity (both realistic and idealized), has a clear physical basis rooted in the theory of available potential energy, and does not suffer from nonmaterial effects that make γn so difficult to use in water masses analysis. In addition, γT is also significantly more neutral than all known quasi-material density variables, such as σ2, while remaining less neutral than γn. Because unlike γn, γT is mathematically explicit, it can be used for theoretical as well as observational studies, as well as a generalized vertical coordinate in isopycnal models of the ocean circulation. On the downside, γT exhibits inversions and degraded neutrality in the polar regions, where the Lorenz reference state is the furthest away from the actual state. Therefore, while γT represents progress over previous approaches, further work is still needed to determine whether its polar deficiencies can be corrected, an essential requirement for γT to be useful in Southern Ocean studies, for instance.
What cost components are relevant for economic evaluations of palliative care, and what approaches are used to measure these costs? A systematic review
Authors: Gardiner Clare , Ingleton Christine , Ryan Tony , Ward Sue , Gott Merryn
Published: September 2016

Background:

It is important to understand the costs of palliative and end-of-life care in order to inform decisions regarding cost allocation. However, economic research in palliative care is very limited and little is known about the range and extent of the costs that are involved in palliative care provision.

Aim:

To undertake a systematic review of the health and social care literature to determine the range of financial costs related to a palliative care approach and explore approaches used to measure these costs.

Design:

A systematic review of empirical literature with thematic synthesis. Study quality was evaluated using the Weight of Evidence Framework.

Data sources:

The databases CINAHL, Cochrane, PsycINFO and Medline were searched from 1995 to November 2015 for empirical studies which presented data on the financial costs associated with palliative care.

Results:

A total of 38 papers met our inclusion criteria. Components of palliative care costs were incurred within four broad domains: hospital care, community or home-based care, hospice care and informal care. These costs could be considered from the economic viewpoint of three providers: state or government, insurers/third-party/not-for-profit organisations and patient and family and/or society. A wide variety of costing approaches were used to derive costs.

Conclusion:

The evidence base regarding the economics of palliative care is sparse, particularly relating to the full economic costs of palliative care. Our review provides a framework for considering these costs from a variety of economic viewpoints; however, further research is required to develop and refine methodologies.
Professional role enactment amid information warfare: War correspondents tweeting on the Ukraine conflict
Authors: Ojala Markus , Pantti Mervi , Kangas Jarkko
Published: September 2016

War correspondents work within a networked media environment characterised not only by an explosion of information but also a wide range of actors producing competing narratives and viewpoints. This study examines the ways in which war correspondents enact their professional roles when tweeting from within a conflict zone. The analysis sheds light on the conditions of modern information warfare in the context of reporting from within the Ukraine conflict. It also identifies the emerging social media practices of war correspondents and the different role categories that journalists are adopting on Twitter.
Investigating healthcare hotel travelers’ overall image formation: Impact of cognition, affect, and conation
Authors: Han Heesup , Hwang Jinsoo
Published: September 2016

Since there has been little empirical research on the phenomenon of healthcare hotels, this study examined them in order to provide a clear understanding of these facilities and international medical/healthcare tourists’ overall perspectives on them. A model was developed and tested that integrated conation into an existing theoretical framework related to image. A field survey was conducted to collect data. A confirmatory factor analysis was used to evaluate measurement quality, and a structural equation modeling was utilized to test research hypotheses and achieve study objectives. A series of modeling comparisons using a structural analysis were conducted. The test results verified the completeness of the proposed model and demonstrated the superiority of the proposed research framework, which comprises conative image factors as the most proximal determinants of overall image, over alternative models. In addition, the results of the structural analysis suggested that cognitive image involving perceived quality and value has a positive impact on affective image; affective image forms conative images involving visit intention and commitment, and conative image exerts a positive impact on overall image. Moreover, an examination of the indirect impact of study variables suggested that affective image and conative image components are necessary mediators in the model. Theoretical implications and the advertising and marketing implications for practitioners are discussed.
Comparing radial styloid size between osteoarthritic and healthy wrists: a pathoanatomical three-dimensional study
Authors: ten Berg P. W. L. , Dobbe J. G. G. , Brinkhorst M. E. , Strackee S. D. , Streekstra G. J.
Published: September 2016

Radial styloid pointing due to spur formation is considered an early sign of osteoarthritis, but is sometimes difficult to distinguish from normal anatomic variation. In this pathoanatomical study we used three-dimensional imaging techniques to evaluate quantitatively whether the styloid size is larger in wrists with scaphoid non-union than in healthy wrists. We compared these findings with duration of the non-union and with the scaphoid non-union advanced collapse classification, which was based on radiographic assessment of the general level of wrist osteoarthritis. In 31 patients, the injured styloid was consistently larger than the contralateral healthy styloid. In 74% of the patients this pathoanatomical difference (maximum 5 mm) exceeded anatomical left-to-right variation in styloid size (maximum 2 mm), indicating significant pointing. Increased styloid pointing was associated with older non-unions, and with more severe osteoarthritis. Three-dimensional styloid pointing analysis is an objective method to assess osteoarthritic progression. Combining traditional qualitative evaluation and quantitative measurements may improve the classification of wrist osteoarthritis.

Level of evidence: IV
Basophil activation test in oral desensitization to cow’s milk allergy
Authors: Chirumbolo Salvatore
Published: September 2016

The recent paper by Nucera et al., showed that the basophil activation test (BAT) in flow cytometry is able to monitor an acquired tolerance induced by a desensitization treatment in food allergy. The paper by Nucera et al. reported two standpoints in the CD63 response to food allergy and OAT and their large difference in CD63 response before and after suggests for the optimal performance of a CD123/HLADR/CD63 BAT in oral food allergy immunotherapy.
Peptide-Grafted Polymers as Artificial Converter of Cellular Signals
Authors: Katayama Yoshiki
Published: September 2016

Intracellular signal transduction systems consisting of sophisticated molecular networks are essential to provide almost all cellular functions. Any abnormal activation of enzymes included in this network can be directly linked to various disease states. Therefore, cellular function can be altered if we can modulate this signal transduction process. In this context, artificial signal converters, which respond to particular abnormal signaling to activate transgene transcription, are introduced. Such molecular systems use polymer materials grafted with cationic peptides, which are a specific substrate of target protein kinase or protease. This concept which is called D-RECS, DDS in response to cellular signals, could have potential for design of disease cell specific therapeutic or diagnostic (imaging) systems using pathological signaling as a target. Molecular design and structural factors affecting signal response in such systems are discussed.
RNA-seq assembler artifacts can bias expression counts and differential expression analysis - application of YeATS on the chickpea transcriptome
Authors: Chakraborty Sandeep
Published: September 2016

Background: The unprecedented volume of genomic and transcriptomic data analyzed by software pipelines makes verification of inferences based on such data, albeit theoretically possible, a challenging proposition. The availability of intermediate data can immensely aid re-validation efforts. One such example is the transcriptome, assembled from raw RNA-seq reads, which is frequently used for annotation and quantification of genes transcribed. The quality of the assembled transcripts influences the accuracy of inferences based on them.

Method: Here the publicly available transcriptome from Cicer arietinum (ICC4958; Desi chickpea, http://www.nipgr.res.in/ctdb.html) was analyzed using YeATS.

Results and Conclusion: The analysis revealed that a majority of the highly expressed transcripts (HET) encoded multiple genes, strongly indicating that the counts may have been biased by the merging of different transcripts. TC00004 is ranked in the top five HET for all five tissues analyzed here, and encodes both a retinoblastoma-binding-like protein (E-value=0) and a senescence-associated protein (E-value= 5e-108). Fragmented transcripts are another source of error. The ribulose bisphosphate carboxylase small chain (RBCSC) protein is split into two transcripts with an overlapping amino acid sequence ”ASNGGRVHC”, TC13991 and TC23009, with length 201 and 332 nucleotides and expression counts 17.90 and 1403.8, respectively.

The huge difference in counts indicates an erroneous normalization algorithm in determining counts. It is well known that RBCSC is highly expressed and expectedly TC23009 ranks fifth among HETs in the shoot. Furthermore, some transcripts are split into open reading frames that map to the same protein, although this should not have any significant bearing on the counts. It is proposed that studies analyzing differential expression based on the transcriptome should consider these artifacts, and providing intermediate assembled transcriptomes should be mandatory, possibly with a link to the raw sequence data (Bioproject).
Didactic Use of Visual Aids in School and University: Table infographics on the Punctuation Theory and Punctuation Teaching Methods
Authors: Кудряшова  , Kudryashova N.
Published: September 2016

The article presents the concept of interconnected learning

of the Russian language (punctuation) and the Russian language

teaching methods through the unified lingua-didactic information

graphics (infographics). The use of table infographics in the process

of teaching of Russian punctuation and Russian punctuation teaching

methods to students has been updated. In accordance with

scientific-methodical typological description of the tables the author

illustrates various forms of standard table educational-didactic

infographics. Punctuation tables are linguistic: language ones, speech

ones or mixed ones. Punctuation teaching methods tables are didactic-

methodical and lingua-methodical. They are represented by

tables-schemes in ascending or descending order and blank tables

that can be filled in with necessary information by the students. It

has been shown that the table infographics is one of the most powerful

means in the system of visual instruction aids.
Institutional Climate and Barriers for Intensive Innovation
Authors: Никонова  , Nikonova A.
Published: September 2016

The issues, concerning institutional climate conducive to the creation and diffusion of innovation, are

discussed in the article. Comparative analysis of institution identifies significant gaps in institutional climate

in different countries. Two groups of requirements have been identified in order to improve the quality of

institutional environment for Russian innovators. The basic requirements are due to the patterns of scientific

and technical development of the global economy; as a rule, they are common for all countries. The special

requirements are determined by the spatial, sectoral and other internal factors. We distinguish requirements

for institution in countries with developed industry and less developed one. We show that it is important to

focus on the development and diversity of channels for transfer of knowledge and technology in such country

as Russia. The shift in innovation paradigm focuses on the efforts to improve communicative character of

institutional climate and to create innovation ecosystems.
The Property As a Basis of Economic Household Management
Authors: Хайкин  , Khaykin M.
Published: September 2016

The article considers from economic, law and institutional points of view the essence, maintenance, features and value of property category within the framework of household management as open system, organization of the special family and environment of reproduction of human capital.
ON THE INFLUENCE OF SCANDIUM ON THE FLUIDITY OF THE AlMg6Li2 MELTS
Authors: Chikova O.A. , Ovsyannikov B. V. , Reznik P. L.
Published: September 2016

We conducted the study of viscosity liquid alloys AlMg6Li2(Sc) under the heating and subsequent cooling of samples. Results of these measurements allowed defining critical temperatures. The processing melt by heating above the critical temperature cause irreversible destruction of micro-inhomogeneities of hereditary nature. The irreversible destruction of micro-inhomogeneities improves the casting properties of the melts AlMg6Li2(Sc).
Continuing Professional Development: Assessment of the acutely or seriously ill child or young person in the prehospital setting
Authors: Cook Kerry
Published: September 2016

Overview

Children and young people (CYP) have distinctive needs within emergency and urgent care. Clinical presentations can often be confusing with non-specific symptoms and numerous potential diagnoses which may require a variety of assessment, management and treatment strategies. For the inexperienced practitioner, assessing CYP can be daunting. Applying clinical reasoning to these situations requires the practitioner to have an understanding of child-specific anatomy, physiology, pathophysiology and psychology; as well as the ability to consider other contributing factors such as the child's ability to communicate. Furthermore, it has been recommended that every professional who is involved in the care of a child and/or young person, should, as a minimum, be competent in: recognition of the sick child; basic lifesupport skills; initiation of treatment using protocols for the management of common conditions; recognition of rare but treatable conditions; effective communication; recognition of and response to any concerns about safeguarding and understanding the need for play and recreation activities. In this article, a case presentation will be used to demonstrate how initial observations require critical thinking in order to identify alternatives to the most obvious rationale for the presenting signs and symptoms.

Learning Outcomes

After completing this module you will be able to: • Have an understanding of the factors involved in critical thinking and clinical reasoning and begin to further develop these. • Recognition of different models of assessment that can be incorporated into your practice. Have an understanding of the importance of using a structured approach to assessment of children and young people. • Further develop your knowledge and understanding of key anatomical and physiological differences in children and young people and how these impact on their clinical presentation. • Use a case presentation to explore the numerous potential diagnoses for paediatric presentations. • Have an appreciation of the current NICE guidelines and how these should impact upon your practice.
Continuing Professional Development: Understanding arrhythmias: paroxysmal supraventricul artachycardia in the prehospital setting
Authors: Smith Gavin , Boyle Malcolm
Published: September 2016

Overview

Paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT) presents a challenging assessment to the prehospital emergency care provider. The nature of PSVT affects all age groups, has a range of aetiologies, is usually well tolerated but may also result in sudden cardiac arrest. It is able to be terminated by a range of therapies and is the subject of an evolving understanding of pathophysiology related to it. Therefore, it is essential that those providing prehospital care have an understanding of the nature and implications of PSVT in order to effectively manage this condition in the field. This module will use a systematic approach to highlight the pathophysiology, epidemiology, interventions, and issues, to arm the reader with the necessary knowledge to approach this patient with confidence.

Learning Outcomes

After completing this module you will be able to: • Discuss the pathophysiology of supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) (atrioventricular nodal re-entrant tachycardia (AVNRT) and atrioventricular re-entrant tachycardia (AVRT)) in relation to physiological effects on the body, specifically perfusion and likely deterioration to lethal arrhythmias. • Discuss the treatment modalities available in the prehospital setting for paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT)—specifically the use of vagal manoeuvres, pharmacological agents, and synchronized cardioversion. • State the evidence-based components of the valsalva manoeuvre (VM), and describe their effect. • Describe the rationale for use of the VM in the setting of haemodynamically stable SVT as a firstline intervention. • Outline the controversies and continued development of the VM, and how this may impact upon current reversion rates for SVT.