bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of falling‐film freeze concentration on bioactive compounds in aqueous coffee extract
Authors: Correa Lady J. , Ruiz Ruth Y. , Moreno Fabian L.
Published: August 2017

Falling‐film freeze concentration (FFFC) is a technology used to concentrate liquids by freezing. This study demonstrated the effect of FFFC on bioactive compounds in coffee extract and their antioxidant activity. Coffee extract containing 5% solids was freeze‐concentrated in 2 successive steps. The main bioactive compounds, chlorogenic acids and caffeine were detected by RP‐HPLC. The antioxidant activity and phenolic content were assessed by ABTS, DPPH, and Folin–Ciocalteu assays. The solution was concentrated 2.09 times after 2 FFFC steps. A concentration index of 2.1 was obtained for bioactive compounds for the concentrated fraction. The antioxidant activity was preserved and a correlation between antioxidant activity and the content of bioactive compounds was confirmed. Coffee bioactive compounds were distributed in proportion to the total solids content of the ice and liquid. Overall, the results showed that FFFC is an effective technique to concentrate liquids that preserves the functional properties of the coffee extract.

Practical applications

The falling film freeze concentration is a new freeze concentration technique which is in development to be used in future industrial applications of food fluids concentration. This study demonstrates the preservation of bioactive compounds and bioactivity of this technique applied to the concentration of coffee extract. The research has applications in the coffee industry in the production of concentrated coffee extract and freeze‐dried soluble coffee.
Bacterial translocation and clinical progression of HCV‐related cirrhosis in HIV‐infected patients
Authors: Merchante N. , Aldámiz‐Echevarría T. , García‐Álvarez M. , Rivero‐Juárez A. , Macías J. , Miralles P. , Jiménez‐Sousa M. A. , Mancebo M. , Pérez‐Latorre L. , Pineda‐Tenor D. , Berenguer J. , Resino S. , Pineda J. A.
Published: August 2017

The aim of the study was to evaluate whether bacterial translocation (BT) predicts the clinical outcome in HIV/HCV‐coinfected patients with compensated cirrhosis. A cohort of 282 HIV/HCV‐coinfected patients with cirrhosis and no previous liver decompensation (LD) was recruited. Serum levels of the DNA sequences encoding the well‐conserved 16S rRNA subunit (16S rDNA), the lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and soluble CD14 (sCD14) at diagnosis of cirrhosis were measured. Primary endpoint was the emergence of the first LD and/or death of any cause. Secondary endpoints were LD, liver‐related death (LRD) and death of any cause. After a median (Q1‐Q3) follow‐up of 51 (27‐72) months, 67 patients (24%; 95% CI: 19‐29) developed their first LD or died during follow‐up. Baseline levels of 16S rDNA, LPS and sCD14 were not associated with the probability of developing the primary endpoint of the study. The mean (SD) survival time free of LD and/or death according to levels of 16S rDNA (<83, 83‐196, 197‐355, >355 [copies/μL]) was 78 (5), 72 (5), 81 (4) and 82 (4) months, respectively (P = .5). The corresponding figures for LPS (<0.1, 0.1‐0.6, 0.6‐1.5, > 1.5 [IU/mL]) were 76 (5), 71 (5), 77 (5) and 81 (4) months, respectively (P = .4). Baseline levels of BT serum markers were not associated with any of the secondary endpoints analysed in the study. Thus, BT does not seem to be a relevant predictor of clinical outcome in HIV/HCV‐coinfected patients with compensated cirrhosis.
Gut microbiomes of free‐ranging and captive Namibian cheetahs: Diversity, putative functions and occurrence of potential pathogens
Authors: Wasimuddin  , Menke Sebastian , Melzheimer Jörg , Thalwitzer Susanne , Heinrich Sonja , Wachter Bettina , Sommer Simone
Published: August 2017

Although the significance of the gut microbiome for host health is well acknowledged, the impact of host traits and environmental factors on the interindividual variation of gut microbiomes of wildlife species is not well understood. Such information is essential; however, as changes in the composition of these microbial communities beyond the natural range might cause dysbiosis leading to increased susceptibility to infections. We examined the potential influence of sex, age, genetic relatedness, spatial tactics and the environment on the natural range of the gut microbiome diversity in free‐ranging Namibian cheetahs (Acinonyx jubatus). We further explored the impact of an altered diet and frequent contact with roaming dogs and cats on the occurrence of potential bacterial pathogens by comparing free‐ranging and captive individuals living under the same climatic conditions. Abundance patterns of particular bacterial genera differed between the sexes, and bacterial diversity and richness were higher in older (>3.5 years) than in younger individuals. In contrast, male spatial tactics, which probably influence host exposure to environmental bacteria, had no discernible effect on the gut microbiome. The profound resemblance of the gut microbiome of kin in contrast to nonkin suggests a predominant role of genetics in shaping bacterial community characteristics and functional similarities. We also detected various Operational Taxonomic Units (OTUs) assigned to potential pathogenic bacteria known to cause diseases in humans and wildlife species, such asHelicobacterspp., andClostridium perfringens. Captive individuals did not differ in their microbial alpha diversity but exhibited higher abundances ofOTUs related to potential pathogenic bacteria and shifts in disease‐associated functional pathways. Our study emphasizes the need to integrate ecological, genetic and pathogenic aspects to improve our comprehension of the main drivers of natural variation and shifts in gut microbial communities possibly affecting host health. This knowledge is essential for in situ and ex situ conservation management.
Comparison of nitrergic signaling in circular and longitudinal smooth muscle of murine ileum
Authors: Voussen B. , Beck K. , Mauro N. , Keppler J. , Friebe A.
Published: August 2017

Background

Gastrointestinal (GI) motility originates from coordinated movements of circular (CM) and longitudinal (LM) smooth muscle. How the two muscle layers react individually to nitrergic input and how they integrate nitrergic signaling is not thoroughly understood.

Methods

We used immunohistochemistry to unveil expression of NO‐sensitive guanylyl cyclase (NO‐GC) in the ileum. For functional analyses, we measured tone of ileal CM and spontaneous contractions in both ileal muscle layers from mice lacking NO‐GC globally (GCKO) and specifically in smooth muscle cells (SMC‐GCKO).

Key Results

In contrast to other parts of the GI tract, NO‐GC was not expressed in ckit‐positive cells in ileum. NO‐GC expression was intense in platelet‐derived growth factor receptor α‐positive cells and in yet unidentified cells of myenteric plexus and serosa. Both CM and LM developed spontaneous contractile activity; frequency and duration of their spontaneous contractions were identical. The amplitude of spontaneous contractions in CM was increased in the absence of NO‐GC. In ileum from control (ctrl) animals, inhibition of NO‐GC increased whereas NO‐GC stimulation decreased tissue tone. In contrast, contractile activity in LM was not different between ctrl and knockout strains. Here, NO led to suppression of spontaneous contractions of ctrl ileum whereas GCKO tissue was unaffected. To our surprise, NO suppressed spontaneous contractions in SMC‐GCKO ileum indicating participation of other cell type(s).

Conclusions and Inferences

NO‐GC in SMC is involved in the regulation of tone and amplitude of spontaneous contractions in ileal CM. In LM, NO induces suppression of spontaneous contractions via NO‐GC in a non‐SMC type.
Pervasive interactions between foliar microbes and soil nutrients mediate leaf production and herbivore damage in a tropical forest
Authors: Griffin Eric A. , Wright S. Joseph , Morin Peter J. , Carson Walter P.
Published: August 2017

Producing and retaining leaves underlie the performance and survivorship of seedlings in deeply shaded tropical forests. These habitats are characterized by conditions ideal for foliar bacteria, which can be potent plant pathogens. Leaf production, retention and susceptibility to enemies may ultimately depend upon interactions among soil nutrients and foliar microbes, yet this has never been tested.

We experimentally evaluated the degree that foliar bacteria and soil resource supply mediate leaf dynamics for five common tree species (five different families) in a Panamanian forest. We reduced foliar bacteria with antibiotics for 29 months and measured leaf production, retention and damage for seedlings nested within a replicated 15‐yr factorial nutrient enrichment experiment (nitrogen, N; phosphorus, P; potassium, K).

Our results demonstrate that when we applied antibiotics, soil nutrients – particularly N – always regulated seedling leaf production (and to a lesser extent herbivore damage) for all five tree species. In addition, it was common for two macronutrients together to negate or completely reverse the impact of applying either one alone.

Our findings of frequent plant–microbe–nutrient interactions are novel and suggest that these interactions may reinforce plant species–environment associations, thereby creating a fairly cryptic and fine‐scale dimension of niche differentiation for coexisting tree species.
The intra‐oral application of a skin regeneration system in the rehabilitation of post‐operative cancer patients with tongue tethering: a technical note
Authors: Farrier J. , Beech A.
Published: August 2017

Post‐operative healing following oral cancer resection and reconstruction can lead to distortion of oral anatomy, interruption of function and extensive scar contraction. We present what is to our knowledge the first reported and successful use of a one stage dermal regeneration template system (Integra®, Integra Life Sciences Corp, Plainsboro, NJ, USA) to assist in the oral rehabilitation of a group of oral cancer patients.
Sensitization to dust mite defines different phenotypes of asthma: A multicenter study
Authors: Ruggieri Silvia , Drago Gaspare , Longo Valeria , Colombo Paolo , Balzan Martin , Bilocca David , Zammit Christopher , Montefort Stephen , Scaccianoce Gianluca , Cuttitta Giuseppina , Viegi Giovanni , Cibella Fabio ,   The RESPIRA Project Group
Published: August 2017

Background

Indoor allergens are risk factors for asthma: Thus, the characterization of indoor air quality is important for studying environment–health relationships in children. In particular, Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus is the dominant allergen for asthma. We cross‐sectionally investigated the relationships among respiratory symptoms and function, airway inflammation, allergen sensitization, and indoor allergen concentration.

Methods

One hundred and thirty‐two children aging 10‐14 years and living in a Southern Mediterranean area were evaluated by parental questionnaires. Spirometry, exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO), skin prick tests, total, and specific serum IgE analyses were performed along with the evaluation of home dust samples for the content in Der p 1 allergen. Three clusters were created on the basis of the presence/absence of wheeze in the last 12 months (Wh12m) and Der p 1‐specific IgE level.

Results

Cluster 1 (Wh12m+/high Der p 1 IgE) presented higher FeNO and poorer pulmonary function (lower FEV1 and FEF25%‐75%), while its symptom score was not different from Cluster 2 (Wh12m+/low Der p 1 IgE). Cluster 3 (Wh12m−/low IgE) showed the lowest FeNO values and pulmonary function similar to Cluster 2. Within Cluster 1, both Der p 1‐specific IgE and FeNO were positively correlated with dust Der p 1.

Conclusions

Similar asthma phenotypes may occur in children despite differences in their atopic state. In atopic children, sensitizing allergens in the indoor environment may increase airway inflammation worsening pulmonary function. Moreover, environmental exposures may contribute to the development of asthma‐like symptoms also in the absence of atopic sensitization, thus contributing to asthma overdiagnosis.
Punch and Scoop Technique for Removing Pilomatricoma
Authors: Maranda Eric L. , Riyaz Farhaad , Shwayder Tor
Published: August 2017

Pilomatricomas are benign calcifying neoplasms derived from follicle matrix cells. Standard treatment for pilomatricomas involves complete surgical excision, with an overall low rate of recurrence. We discuss a simple alternative surgical technique that allows for removal of the lesion with less residual defect than complete excision.
Using Contingent Markdown with Reservation to Profit from Strategic Consumer Behavior
Authors: Surasvadi Navaporn , Tang Christopher S. , Vulcano Gustavo
Published: August 2017

We examine a contingent price markdown (CM) mechanism with guaranteed reservation under which a retailer sells multiple units to forward‐looking consumers who arrive over time according to a Poisson process. During the early part of the selling season, each arriving consumer can either purchase a unit by paying the regular price or reserve a unit at the discount price. Reserved units can only be claimed later when the number of guaranteed reservations meets a pre‐specified threshold, or at the end of the selling season, whichever comes first. Immediately after the number of guaranteed reservations meets the pre‐specified threshold, the retailer will reduce its selling price to the discount price so that all subsequent arriving consumers can take immediate possession by paying the low price. We study the consumer purchasing behavior in equilibrium when the retailer adopts such a selling mechanism, and compare the performance of our mechanism against two benchmarks: fixed price (FP) and pre‐announced discount (PD). Through an extensive numerical analysis, we identify market conditions under which CM dominates both FP and PD in terms of the retailer's revenue and consumer's surplus. Finally, through a fluid approximation to the stochastic model, we simplify the computation of the equilibrium strategy and the optimal revenues, and verify that the key insights obtained from the stochastic model still hold.
Beyond Subjective and Objective in Statistics
Authors: Gelman Andrew , Hennig Christian
Published: August 2017

Decisions in statistical data analysis are often justified, criticized or avoided by using concepts of objectivity and subjectivity. We argue that the words ‘objective’ and ‘subjective’ in statistics discourse are used in a mostly unhelpful way, and we propose to replace each of them with broader collections of attributes, with objectivity replaced by transparency, consensus, impartiality and correspondence to observable reality, and subjectivity replaced by awareness of multiple perspectives and context dependence. Together with stability, these make up a collection of virtues that we think is helpful in discussions of statistical foundations and practice. The advantage of these reformulations is that the replacement terms do not oppose each other and that they give more specific guidance about what statistical science strives to achieve. Instead of debating over whether a given statistical method is subjective or objective (or normatively debating the relative merits of subjectivity and objectivity in statistical practice), we can recognize desirable attributes such as transparency and acknowledgement of multiple perspectives as complementary goals. We demonstrate the implications of our proposal with recent applied examples from pharmacology, election polling and socio-economic stratification. The aim of the paper is to push users and developers of statistical methods towards more effective use of diverse sources of information and more open acknowledgement of assumptions and goals.
Expectation Propagation in the Large Data Limit
Authors: Dehaene Guillaume , Barthelmé Simon
Published: August 2017

Expectation propagation (EP) is a widely successful algorithm for variational inference. EP is an iterative algorithm used to approximate complicated distributions, typically to find a Gaussian approximation of posterior distributions. In many applications of this type, EP performs extremely well. Surprisingly, despite its widespread use, there are very few theoretical guarantees on Gaussian EP, and it is quite poorly understood. To analyse EP, we first introduce a variant of EP: averaged EP, which operates on a smaller parameter space. We then consider averaged EP and EP in the limit of infinite data, where the overall contribution of each likelihood term is small and where posteriors are almost Gaussian. In this limit, we prove that the iterations of both averaged EP and EP are simple: they behave like iterations of Newton’s algorithm for finding the mode of a function. We use this limit behaviour to prove that EP is asymptotically exact, and to obtain other insights into the dynamic behaviour of EP, e.g. that it may diverge under poor initialization exactly like Newton’s method. EP is a simple algorithm to state, but a difficult one to study. Our results should facilitate further research into the theoretical properties of this important method.
Risk Factors for Suicidal Behavior Depend on Age for Veterans in the Pacific Islands
Authors: Pitts Barbara L. , Whealin Julia M. , Kato Jackson
Published: August 2017

We examined whether risk factors for suicidal behavior depend on age among military veterans in the Pacific Islands (N = 29,595). For veterans under 54 years old, having a diagnosis of posttraumatic stress disorder, borderline personality disorder, a drug use disorder, and having a service‐related disability predicted suicidal behavior. For veterans 54 years old or older, having a mood disorder predicted suicidal behavior. Having a history of suicidal behavior and a high number of VA health care visits were associated with suicidal behavior for both age groups. Our findings suggest that the predictive value of certain risk factors in veterans in the Pacific Islands may depend on age.
Incidence and body location of reported acute sport injuries in seven sports using a national insurance database
Authors: Åman M. , Forssblad M. , Larsén K.
Published: August 2017

Sports with high numbers of athletes and acute injuries are an important target for preventive actions at a national level. Both for the health of the athlete and to reduce costs associated with injury. The aim of this study was to identify injuries where injury prevention should focus, in order to have major impact on decreasing acute injury rates at a national level. All athletes in the seven investigated sport federations (automobile sports, basketball, floorball, football (soccer), handball, ice hockey, and motor sports) were insured by the same insurance company. Using this insurance database, the incidence and proportion of acute injuries, and injuries leading to permanent medical impairment (PMI), at each body location, was calculated. Comparisons were made between sports, sex, and age. In total, there were 84 754 registered injuries during the study period (year 2006‐2013). Athletes in team sports, except in male ice hockey, had the highest risk to sustain an injury and PMI in the lower limb. Females had higher risk of injury and PMI in the lower limb compared to males, in all sports except in ice hockey. This study recommends that injury prevention at national level should particularly focus on lower limb injuries. In ice hockey and motor sports, head/neck and upper limb injuries also need attention.
A review of cross‐backed grasshoppers of the genus DociostaurusFieber (Orthoptera: Acrididae) from the western Mediterranean: insights from phylogenetic analyses and DNA‐based species delimitation
Authors: GONZÁLEZ‐SERNA MARÍA JOSÉ , ORTEGO JOAQUÍN , CORDERO PEDRO J.
Published: August 2017

Phylogenetic analyses and species delimitation methods are powerful tools for understanding patterns of species diversity. Given the current biodiversity crisis, such approaches are invaluable for urgent assessment and delimitation of truthful species, particularly of endangered and morphologically cryptic taxa from vulnerable areas submitted to strong climate change and progressive human intervention such as the Mediterranean region. In this study, we applied two DNA‐based species delimitation methods and performed a Bayesian phylogenetic reconstruction using three mitochondrial gene fragments (12S, 16S and COI) to solve several taxonomic uncertainties among species of cross‐backed grasshoppers (genus Dociostaurus Fieber) from the western Mediterranean. Phylogenetic analyses demonstrate the polyphyletic character of subgenera Dociostaurus, Kazakia Bey‐Bienko and Stauronotulus Tarbinsky and, thus, the necessity of revising the currently accepted taxonomic subgenera within the genus Dociostaurus. We propose the split of closely related taxa with allopatric distributions such as D. (S.) kraussi and D. (S.) crassiusculus, considering the later a distinct species limited to the Iberian Peninsula and excluding the name crassiusculus from other forms of D. (S.) kraussi from East Europe and Asia. Estimates of divergence times indicate that diversification of Dociostaurus probably happened during the Miocene–Pliocene (3–7 Ma), and the split of the studied pairs of sister taxa took place during the middle and late Pleistocene (1–2 Ma). This study highlights the need for more molecular studies on the genus and their different species for a better understanding of their evolution, genetic variation and population dynamics in order to prioritize strategies for their adequate conservation and management.
Cartography of a Blind Spot: An Exploratory Analysis of European Border Cities
Authors: Sohn Christophe
Published: August 2017

Despite the importance of national borders in the process of European integration and its destiny, border areas remain relatively misrecognised. This is particularly true as regards the contemporary geography of border cities across Europe. It is therefore difficult to assess what importance border cities and cross‐border urban regions have and how they have evolved in parallel with the transformation of European borders. The aim of this paper is to highlight the urban dimension of border regions in Europe and, in particular, the diversity of configurations present. Through an original cartography of border cities, we hope to draw the attention of the research community interested in borders and border regions to an unfamiliar aspect of European borderlands and some of the issues and questions it raises.
Cases of transfusion‐transmitted babesiosis occurring in nonendemic areas: a diagnostic dilemma
Authors: LeBel David P. , Moritz Erin D. , O'Brien Jennifer J. , Lazarchick John , Tormos Lee Marie , Duong Angie , Fontaine Magali J. , Squires Jerry E. , Stramer Susan L.
Published: August 2017

BACKGROUND

Transfusion‐transmitted babesiosis (TTB) has been rapidly increasing in incidence since the beginning of the 21st century. Asymptomatic individuals with Babesia infection are able to donate blood in the United States because of the lack of specific blood donation testing. Blood products collected in Babesia‐endemic areas are distributed nationally; thus, clinicians in nonendemic states may fail to include babesiosis in the differential diagnosis of a patient who had a recent transfusion history and a fever of unknown origin.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

We report the details of two cases of clinical transfusion‐transmitted babesiosis and one asymptomatic infection identified in red blood cell recipients in two nonendemic states (South Carolina and Maryland), which, when combined with three recent additional cases in nonendemic states, totals six recipient infections in three nonendemic states.

RESULTS

Delayed diagnosis of transfusion‐transmitted babesiosis places patients at risk for increased morbidity and mortality and may result in clinical mismanagement or unnecessary treatments. A peripheral blood smear should be reviewed in any patient with a recent transfusion and a fever of unknown origin. Prompt communication of the diagnosis among physicians is key to ensuring that patients with transfusion‐transmitted babesiosis are treated expeditiously, and a transfusion service investigation is necessary to identify additional recipients from the same donor.

CONCLUSION

TTB is appearing in traditionally nonendemic states because of blood product distribution patterns. Clinicians should include TTB on the differential diagnosis in any patient presenting who had a recent transfusion history and a fever of unknown origin, regardless of where the transfusion took place.
Hematologic and plasma chemistry RIs for cultured Striped catfish (Pangasius hypophthalmus) in recirculating aquaculture systems
Authors: Galagarza Oscar A. , Kuhn David D. , Smith Stephen A. , Hrubec Terry C.
Published: August 2017

Background

Striped catfish (Pangasius hypophthalmus) is a valuable aquaculture fish species produced primarily in Southeast Asia. In the United States, it is bred as an ornamental species. Striped catfish has high productivity and great demand in numerous countries around the world, yet little is known about its normal physiology.

Objectives

The objective of this study was to establish hematologic and blood chemistryRIs for healthy juvenile Striped catfish.

Methods

Blood samples were collected from 70 Striped catfish raised in recirculating aquaculture systems. Whole blood and plasma samples were analyzed for multiple hematologic and chemistry variables using standard techniques.

Results

TheRIs for hematology were as follows:PCV23.5–35.9%,MCV106.3–156.6 fL,RBCcount 1.79–2.75 × 106cells/μL, thrombocytes 26,318–73,333 cells/μL, totalWBCcount 36,294–94,286 cells/μL, total lymphocytes 18,997–59,998 cells/μL, small lymphocytes 13,763–51,490 cells/μL, large lymphocytes 715–21,200 cells/μL, granulocytes 4504–18,291 cells/μL, and monocytes 0–7549 cells/μL. Plasma chemistryRIs were the following:ALP32.7–74.6 U/L,AST20.3–1235.8 U/L, sodium 135.2–147.7 mmol/L, potassium 3.3–5.0 mmol/L, chloride 120.1–133.6 mmol/L, calcium 2.7–3.6 mmol/L, magnesium 0.9–1.3 mmol/L, phosphorous 1.4–2.7 mmol/L, glucose 4.6–7.6 mmol/L, cholesterol 2.8–5.3 mmol/L, total protein 30–42 g/L, albumin 7–11 g/L, globulin 22–32 g/L, albumin:globulin ratio 0.27–0.37, creatinine 0–8 μmol/L, and osmolality 251.8–327.9 mOsm/kg.

Conclusions

Reference intervals reported here can help veterinarians and fish health specialists monitor the health status of Striped catfish under recirculating aquaculture conditions for research, exhibition, and production purposes.
Radiographic, ultrasonographic, and computed tomographic characteristics of an accessory liver lobe in a cat
Authors: Soler Marta , Carrillo Juana D. , Belda Eliseo , Buendía Antonio , Agut Amalia
Published: August 2017

A 5‐year‐old male Norwegian Forest cat presented with increased hepatic serum biochemical parameters. Abdominal radiography showed an oval cranioventral mass and ultrasound revealed a mobile mass attached to one hepatic lobe. Computed tomography (CT) confirmed that the mass was attached to the right medial liver lobe. Differential diagnoses were an accessory liver lobe, benign neoplasia, and focal nodular hyperplasia. The mass was removed and histopathology confirmed the mass to be normal liver tissue. Accessory liver lobe should be included in the differential diagnosis of a mobile cranial abdominal mass with a similar ultrasonographic or CT appearance to the liver.
Oxygen therapies and their effects on wound healing
Authors: de Smet Gijs H.J. , Kroese Leonard F. , Menon Anand G. , Jeekel Johannes , van Pelt Antoon W.J. , Kleinrensink Gert‐Jan , Lange Johan F.
Published: August 2017

Oxygen is an important factor for wound healing. Although several different therapies investigated the use of oxygen to aid wound healing, the results of these studies are not unequivocal. This systematic review summarizes the clinical and experimental studies regarding different oxygen therapies for promoting wound healing, and evaluates the outcomes according the methodological details. A systematic literature search was conducted using Embase, Medline, Web of Science, Cochrane, PubMed publisher, and Google Scholar libraries. Clinical and experimental studies investigating oxygen for wound healing were selected. Included articles were categorized according to the kind of therapy, study design, and wound type. The methodological details were extracted and analyzed. Sixty‐five articles were identified and divided in three different oxygen therapies: Local oxygen therapy, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, and supplemental inspired oxygen therapy. More than half of the included local oxygen and hyperbaric oxygen studies had one or more significant positive outcomes, 77 and 63%, respectively. Supplemental inspired oxygen therapy during gastrointestinal and vascular surgery was more likely to have a positive result than during other surgical interventions reducing surgical site infections. These many positive outcomes promote the use of oxygen treatment in the stimulation of wound healing. However, the lack of clinical studies and vast methodological diversity made it impossible to perform a proper comparison within and between the different therapies. Further randomized clinical studies are warranted to examine the value of these therapies, especially studies that investigate the more patient‐friendly oxygen dressings and topical wound oxygen therapies. Also, to achieve more solid and consistent data, studies should use more standardized methods and subjects.
Development of A Preschool Teacher’s Guidance Qualifications Scale and Its Psychometric Properties
Authors: Bilgin Hülya
Published: August 2017

The goal of this study is to develop a Guidance Qualification Scale for Preschool Teachers and examine the validity and reliability of the scale. The research was conducted with 374 teachers working in preschools in Istanbul and they were chosen by the random sampling method. Factor analysis was carried out for the construct validity of the scale. Internal consistency coefficients and test-retest reliabilities were examined and item analysis was performed for reliability studies. As a result of the factor analysis, 59 items which explained 55,989% of the total variance (Total Variance Explained 45,050%), were obtained under four factors. When the factor weights of the scale are examined, items were found to have weight values ranging from .746 to .453. Cronbach’s Alpha internal consistency coefficients of the “Preschool Teacher’s Guidance Qualifications Scale” were found to be .977 for the total scale, .954 for the "Supporting Educational Development and Interpersonal Relationships" sub-dimension, .943 for the "Supporting Individual Development and Orientation" sub-dimension, .904 for the "Self-acceptance, Support for Self and Social Development" sub-dimension and .909 for the "Recognizing Individuals, Identifying Problems and Supporting Parents" sub-dimension. Also, the test-retest reliability study of the scale was conducted with 44 teachers. According to the results of the t-test applied for differences between the average item scores of upper 27% and lower 27% groups of items on (in?) the scale, all differences were found to be significantly in favor of the upper 27% group. In light of these findings, it can be said that the “Preschool Teacher’s Guidance Qualifications Scale” can be used as a valid and reliable measurement tool in the field of education.
Rigid and elastic acoustic scattering signal separation for underwater target
Authors: Jia Hongjian , Li Xiukun , Meng Xiangxia
Published: August 2017

Underwater target elastic acoustic scattering and other acoustic scattering components are aliasing together in the time and frequency domains, and the existing signal processing methods cannot recognize the elastic scattering features under the aliasing condition because of the resolution limitation. To address this problem, this study, which is based on the target echo highlight model, analyzes the characteristics of target acoustic scattering components when the transmitted signal is a linear frequency modulation pulse. The target acoustic scattering structure in the fractional Fourier transform (FRFT) domain is deduced theoretically. Then, filtering is used in the FRFT domain to separate the target elastic acoustic scattering components. In addition, noise suppression performance and filter resolution are discussed. The target rigid and elastic acoustic scattering components are separated. Experimental results show that filtering in the FRFT domain can separate the elastic scattering components from the target echoes. Moreover, separated elastic acoustic scattering components have consistent theoretical features, which lay the foundation for studying the elastic scattering characteristics further.
Incomplete cauda equina syndrome secondary to haemorrhage within a Tarlov cyst
Authors: Yates Joseph R , Jones Conor S , Stokes Oliver M , Hutton Michael
Published: August 2017

Sacral perineural (Tarlov) cysts are benign, cerebrospinal fluid containing lesions of the spinal nerve root sheath. They are usually asymptomatic; however, a small proportion have the potential to cause compression of nerve roots and/or the cauda equina.

We report a case of a 61-year-old man who presented with acute onset back pain associated with bilateral radiculopathy. Between referral and consultation, the patient developed urinary dysfunction which resolved spontaneously.

MRI revealed haemorrhage within a Tarlov cyst, resulting in compression of the cauda equina. Due to the considerable clinical improvement at the time of consultation, surgical decompression of the cyst was not considered to be indicated.

An interval MRI scan 8 weeks later demonstrated that the haemorrhage within the perineural cyst had spontaneously resolved and the patient remained asymptomatic at 5-year follow-up.
Synovial metastasis of the knee in aKRASmutant rectal adenocarcinoma patient
Authors: Tapia Rico Gonzalo , Klevansky Myron , Townsend Amanda , Price Timothy
Published: August 2017

Synovial metastasis is an unusual entity in solid tumours and only a few cases have been reported in the literature. We report a case of synovial metastasis of the knee in a young patient with progressive rectal adenocarcinoma and review previously published case reports of synovial involvement in advanced colorectal carcinomas. Synovial metastasis is just one of the multiple possibilities of differential diagnosis in patients with cancer suffering from monarthritis. Radiological tests (plain radiographs, bone scans, MRI of the joint and so forth) can be unspecific and cytological examination of the synovial fluid and/or histology of synovial biopsies is essential for a definitive diagnosis so as to tailor the best treatment for patients. Given the poor prognosis associated with these intra-articular secondaries, treatment is often limited to palliation.
Sweet's syndrome in a patient with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia
Authors: Smith Catherine Rachel , Williams Penelope
Published: August 2017

Bullous Sweet's syndrome is a rare variant of the inflammatory neutrophilic dermatosis characterised by painful bullous skin lesions, fever, leukocytosis and a neutrophilic infiltrate of the dermis. The condition may be classified according to aetiology into classical (idiopathic), malignancy-associated and drug-induced. Neutrophilic infiltration occurs in response to a systemic insult. A punch biopsy for histology and culture is necessary due to its close resemblance to infection. Characteristic histology features a dense infiltration of neutrophils in the upper and mid dermis, oedema in the superficial dermis and endothelial swelling. Treatment with systemic glucocorticosteroids typically results in a dramatic clinical response. This case report illustrates a rare case of bullous Sweet syndrome associated with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia in a 53-year-old man.
Diagnostic approach in persistentStaphylococcus aureusbacteraemia
Authors: Shahani Lokesh
Published: August 2017

Staphylococcus aureusis the leading cause of bacteraemia and can lead to complicated infections that may be difficult to diagnose and hence lead to higher morbidity. Failure to identify such could lead to severe complications or relapsing bacteraemia due to inadequate treatment. The authors report a patient presenting with methicillin-resistantS. aureus(MRSA) bacteraemia and septic arthritis, who developed a complicated infection with multiple metastasis and persistent bacteraemia despite adequate treatment. A fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG)-positron emission tomography scan 2 weeks after the initial presentation identified a linear area of intense FDG uptake within the right upper extremity which raised suspicion for an infected thrombus within the right cephalic vein. Adequate treatment of the infected thrombus helped resolve the patient's persistent MRSA bacteraemia and complicated infection. This case highlights the importance of considering suppurative thrombophlebitis in the setting of persistent bacteraemia and metastatic infections due to MRSA.
Injuries in elite Korean fencers: an epidemiological study
Authors: Park Ki Jun , Brian Byung Song
Published: August 2017

Purpose

We aimed to assess the risk of injury associated with training activities in a population of elite Korean fencers training for the Olympic games.

Methods

We analysed the incidence of sports injuries, based on data prospectively collected over an 8-year period (January 2008 to December 2015) at the National Training Center in Seoul, Korea. The population of elite fencing athletes was stratified according to fencing category (sabre, epee and foil), sex, injury location (body region and site) and injury severity (mild or level I injury, requiring treatment for 1–3 days; moderate or level II injury, requiring treatment for 4–7 days; and severe or level III injury, requiring treatment for ≥8 days).

Results

A total of 1176 injuries were recorded during the study period, with an average of 3.3 injuries per athlete annually. Of these, over half (52.6%) were mild injuries, with most injuries occurring in the lower extremity (47.2%), followed by injuries to the upper extremity (26.4%), trunk (21.4%), and head and neck area (5.0%). For all weapon categories, there was a significant difference between male and female athletes in terms of injury location and severity (p≤0.005).

Conclusions

We hope that our data describing injury location and severity according to weapon category and sex can help one understand the circumstances that lead to injuries in elite Korean fencers and can be used in the development of programmes to reduce the incidence of sports injuries and enhance athletic performance.
Concussion in the international ice hockey World Championships and Olympic Winter Games between 2006 and 2015
Authors: Tuominen Markku , Hänninen Timo , Parkkari Jari , Stuart Michael J , Luoto Teemu , Kannus Pekka , Aubry Mark
Published: August 2017

Background

Concussions in sports are a growing concern. This study describes the incidence, injury characteristics and time trends of concussions in international ice hockey.

Methods

All concussions in the International Ice Hockey Federation (IIHF) World Championships (WC) and Olympic Winter Games were analysed over 9 ice hockey seasons between 2006 and 2015 using a standardised injury reporting system and diagnoses made by the team physicians.

Results

A total of 3293 games were played (169 tournaments, 1212 teams, 26 130 players) comprising 142 244 athletic game exposures. The average injury rate (IR) for concussion was 1.1 per 1000 ice hockey player-games for all IIHF WC tournaments. The IR was the highest in the men's WC A-pool tournaments and Olympic Games (IR 1.6). However, the annual IR for concussion in the men's tournaments has been lower than that in the World Junior tournaments since 2012. When a concussion occurred with contact to a flexible board, the IR was 0.2 per 1000 player games. In contrast, the IR was 1.1, if the board and glass were traditional (for the latter, RR 6.44 (95% CI 1.50 to 27.61)). In the men's tournaments, the trend of concussions caused by illegal hits decreased over the study period. After the 4th Consensus Statement on Concussion in Sport was published (2013), none of the concussed players in the men's WC returned to play on the day of injury.

Conclusions

The annual risk of concussion in the men's WC has decreased during the study period. This was most likely due to a reduction in illegal hits. The risk of concussion was significantly lower if games were played on rinks with flexible boards and glass. Rink modifications, improved education and strict rule enforcement should be considered by policymakers in international ice hockey.
INJURIES IN 17–19 YEAR-OLD MALE AMATEUR SOCCER PLAYERS
Authors: Ackermann Stefan , Henke Thomas , Bloch Wilhelm
Published: August 2017

Background

There is only a small body of literature regarding injuries in male youth amateur soccer players. Yet such information is fundamental for effective prevention.

Objective

Analysis of injury patterns among 17–19 year old male amateur soccer players and comparison with adult male amateur and professional players.

Design

Questionnaire-based retrospective observational cohort study from August 30, 2014 to January 04, 2016. Players were instructed to fill out one general questionnaire and, in case of at least one injury during the relevant period of time, one additional questionnaire per injury.

Setting

Regional youth amateur soccer level. Participants were recruited from 20 clubs of four regional soccer leagues, representing the fifth and sixth highest level of performance for this age group.

Participants

301 players who competed in one of these leagues during the season 2015/16 were included.

Main Outcome Measurements

Exposure, injured body parts, incidence and time loss.

Results

205 players sustained 253 injuries. The incidence was 12.9 injuries per 1,000 h of competition exposure and 1.1 injuries per 1,000 h of practice and friendly games. 82.9% of injuries were located at the lower extremity. Ligaments were injured most frequently (23.3%). 32.0% of all injuries could be graded as severe, 45.1% as moderate, followed by 15.4% mild and 4.7% minimal injuries as defined by Fulleret al. (2006). Physical contact caused injuries most frequently (30.4%), followed by landings (12.9%).

Conclusions

Injury incidences in male youth amateur soccer were lower, while the portion of severe and moderate injuries was higher than in studies researching professional soccer. The allocation of injuries was almost similar to findings in professional and adult amateur soccer. Although physical contact is cross-study the most important cause of soccer injuries, existing prevention programs almost entirely focus on non-contact injuries. Therefore interventions preventing injuries through physical contact should be developed and validated.
WEEKLY ANKLE LUNGE TEST SCREENING MIGHT HELP PREVENT ANKLE INJURIES
Authors: Arend Mati , Kalev Maarja , Mäestu Jarek
Published: August 2017

Background

Research has shown that almost 80% of injuries in track and field athletes affect the lower limb. Therefore, it is important to regularly monitor the condition of athlete's musculoskeletal system to prevent injuries. Simplified measurement of ankle dorsiflexion (DF) with ALT has shown to predict injuries to the lower limb.

Objective

To prevent ankle injuries through weekly monitoring of Ankle Lunge Test (ALT).

Design

A case series study of weekly ALT screening and injury registration during the 15 week training period. Participants were blinded to the results. Testing was carried out by one physiotherapist following athletes' rest day during the same time period of the day.

Setting

University of Tartu Academic Sports Club, Track and field team.

Patients (or Participants)

Seven male (age 21.4±1.0 years; height 184.4±5.5 cm; weight 79.7±6.2 kg; training experience 6.9±3.2 years) and five female (age 22.2±1.3 years; height 171.6±10.7 cm; weight 60.2±6.3 kg; training experience 8.6±3.3 years) semiprofessional track and field athletes.

Interventions (or Assessment of Risk Factors)

ALT was measured as a distance from the great toe to the wall (nearest 0.1 cm on a tape measure).

Main Outcome Measurements

Variance of weekly ALT measurements compared to standard deviation of the same test and registered injuries.

Results

Five athletes (42% of the cohort) suffered an injury to the ankle area. Statistically significant (p<0.05) differences in mean ankle DF was found in four athletes. Also, ankle DF measurements were outside an average standard deviation in four athletes (80% of the ankle injury cohort) prior to the injury.

Conclusions

Comparing the weekly ALT results to the standard deviation of the previous average values may predict the athletes at increased risk of ankle overuse injuries. This may give valuable information to medical staff to regularly assess the athlete before increasing training load or intensity to keep the athlete injury free.
PREVENTION OF MUSCULOSKELETAL INJURIES AMONG DUTCH HOCKEY PLAYERS: DEVELOPMENT AND PILOT-IMPLEMENTATION OF THE KNHB INTERVENTION
Authors: Gouttebarge Vincent , Zuidema Victor
Published: August 2017

Background

Musculoskeletal injuries in the lower limbs are common in pivoting team sports such as field hockey. Consequently, the Royal Dutch Hockey Federation (KNHB) aims to prevent the occurrence of these injuries among hockey players.

Objective

To develop an evidence-based intervention to prevent musculoskeletal injuries in the lower limbs among youth/adult hockey players and to explore its feasibility and limited efficacy.

Design

The KNHB intervention was developed in accordance to a scientific framework (Intervention Mapping). Then, a pilot-implementation based on a single-group repeated-measures design was conducted.

Setting

Royal Dutch Hockey Federation (KNHB).

Patients (or Participants)

A total of 168 hockey coaches/trainers were enrolled in a pilot-implementation of 12 weeks.

Interventions (or Assessment of Risk Factors)

The KNHB intervention was developed according to (i) scientific literature, (ii) view of experts in hockey and injury prevention, and (iii) needs of hockey players and hockey coaches/trainers. The KNHB intervention is an age- and gender-specific warming-up programme involving more than 50 exercises divided in three phases of 4–5 minutes (preparation, motor skills, hockey skills). The KNHB intervention is available through a website and an application for smartphone/tablet in which all exercises are described with texts, pictures and video's.

Main Outcome Measurements

Use/feasibility of the KNHB intervention as well as level of knowledge and skills of hockey coaches/trainers about injury prevention and the KNHB intervention (Visual Analogue Scale).

Results

The KNHB intervention was positively evaluated, while more than 80% of the hockey coaches/trainers thought that the website and application for smartphone/table were of added value. Calculated effect size (d=0,23 between T0 and T1; d=0,34 between T0 and T2) showed a moderate effect on level of knowledge and skills of hockey coaches/trainers.

Conclusions

The KNHB intervention is feasible and leads to more knowledge and skills among hockey coaches/trainers. Its effect on injuries needs to be evaluated.