bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sexual Dimorphism of Parental Care: From Genes to Behavior
Authors: Zilkha Noga , Scott Niv , Kimchi Tali
Published: April 2017

Parental care is found in species across the animal kingdom, from small insects to large mammals, with a conserved purpose of increasing offspring survival. Yet enormous variability exists between different species and between the sexes in the pattern and level of parental investment. Here, we review the literature on the neurobiological mechanisms underlying maternal and paternal care, especially in rodents, and discuss the relationship between sex differences in behavior and sexual dimorphism in the brain. We argue that although several brain regions and circuits regulating parental care are shared by both sexes, some of the fundamental components comprising the maternal brain are innate and sex specific. Moreover, we suggest that a more comprehensive understanding of the underlying mechanisms can be achieved by expanding the methodological toolbox, applying ethologically relevant approaches such as nontraditional wild-derived animal models and complex seminatural experimental set-ups.
Novel use of a noninvasive hemodynamic monitor in a personalized, active learning simulation
Authors: Zoller Jonathan K. , He Jianghua , Ballew Angela T. , Orr Walter N. , Flynn Brigid C.
Published: April 2017

The present study furthered the concept of simulation-based medical education by applying a personalized active learning component. We tested this novel approach utilizing a noninvasive hemodynamic monitor with the capability to measure and display in real time numerous hemodynamic parameters in the exercising participant. Changes in medical knowledge concerning physiology were examined with a pre-and posttest. Simply by observation of one's own hemodynamic variables, the understanding of complex physiological concepts was significantly enhanced.
Use of the hyperinsulinemic euglycemic clamp to assess insulin sensitivity in guinea pigs: dose response, partitioned glucose metabolism, and species comparisons
Authors: Horton Dane M. , Saint David A. , Owens Julie A. , Gatford Kathryn L. , Kind Karen L.
Published: April 2017

The guinea pig is an alternate small animal model for the study of metabolism, including insulin sensitivity. However, only one study to date has reported the use of the hyperinsulinemic euglycemic clamp in anesthetized animals in this species, and the dose response has not been reported. We therefore characterized the dose-response curve for whole body glucose uptake using recombinant human insulin in the adult guinea pig. Interspecies comparisons with published data showed species differences in maximal whole body responses (guinea pig ≈ human < rat < mouse) and the insulin concentrations at which half-maximal insulin responses occurred (guinea pig > human ≈ rat > mouse). In subsequent studies, we used concomitant d-[3-3H]glucose infusion to characterize insulin sensitivities of whole body glucose uptake, utilization, production, storage, and glycolysis in young adult guinea pigs at human insulin doses that produced approximately half-maximal (7.5 mU·min−1·kg−1) and near-maximal whole body responses (30 mU·min−1·kg−1). Although human insulin infusion increased rates of glucose utilization (up to 68%) and storage and, at high concentrations, increased rates of glycolysis in females, glucose production was only partially suppressed (~23%), even at high insulin doses. Fasting glucose, metabolic clearance of insulin, and rates of glucose utilization, storage, and production during insulin stimulation were higher in female than in male guinea pigs ( P < 0.05), but insulin sensitivity of these and whole body glucose uptake did not differ between sexes. This study establishes a method for measuring partitioned glucose metabolism in chronically catheterized conscious guinea pigs, allowing studies of regulation of insulin sensitivity in this species.
Neurogenic hypertension and the secrets of respiration
Authors: Machado Benedito H. , Zoccal Daniel B. , Moraes Davi J. A.
Published: April 2017

Despite recent advances in the knowledge of the neural control of cardiovascular function, the cause of sympathetic overactivity in neurogenic hypertension remains unknown. Studies from our laboratory point out that rats submitted to chronic intermittent hypoxia (CIH), an experimental model of neurogenic hypertension, present changes in the central respiratory network that impact the pattern of sympathetic discharge and the levels of arterial pressure. In addition to the fine coordination of respiratory muscle contraction and relaxation, which is essential for O2and CO2pulmonary exchanges, neurons of the respiratory network are connected precisely to the neurons controlling the sympathetic activity in the brain stem. This respiratory-sympathetic neuronal interaction provides adjustments in the sympathetic outflow to the heart and vasculature during each respiratory phase according to the metabolic demands. Herein, we report that CIH-induced sympathetic over activity and mild hypertension are associated with increased frequency discharge of ventral medullary presympathetic neurons. We also describe that their increased frequency discharge is dependent on synaptic inputs, mostly from neurons of the brain stem respiratory network, rather than changes in their intrinsic electrophysiological properties. In perspective, we are taking into consideration the possibility that changes in the central respiratory rhythm/pattern generator contribute to increased sympathetic outflow and the development of neurogenic hypertension. Our experimental evidence provides support for the hypothesis that changes in the coupling of respiratory and sympathetic networks might be one of the unrevealed secrets of neurogenic hypertension in rats.
Longitudinal characterization of renal proximal tubular markers in normotensive and preeclamptic pregnancies
Authors: Codsi Elisabeth , Garovic Vesna D. , Gonzalez-Suarez Maria L. , Milic Natasa , Borowski Kristi S. , Rose Carl H. , Davies Norman P. , Kashani Kianoush B. , Lieske John C. , White Wendy M.
Published: April 2017

Glomerular damage is common in preeclampsia (PE), but the extent and etiology of tubular injury are not well understood. The aim of this study was to evaluate tubular injury in patients with PE and to assess whether it predates clinical disease. We performed a prospective cohort study of 315 pregnant women who provided urine samples at the end of the second trimester and at delivery. This analysis included women who developed PE ( n = 15), gestational hypertension (GH; n = 14), and normotensive controls (NC; n = 44). Urinary markers of tubular injury, α1-microglobulin (A1M), retinol-binding protein (RBP), kidney-injury molecule-1 (KIM1), complement C5b-9, tissue inhibitor metalloproteinase-2 (TIMP-2), and insulin-like growth factor binding protein-7 (IGFBP-7) were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and reported in relation to urine creatinine concentration. Second-trimester concentrations of all markers were similar among groups. At delivery, A1M concentrations were higher in the PE group than in the GH and NC groups as an A1M/creatinine ratio >13 (66.7, 8.3, and 35%, respectively, P = 0.01). Concentrations of C5b-9 were higher in the PE group than in the GH and NC groups (medians 9.85, 0.05, and 0.28 ng/mg, respectively, P = 0.003). KIM1, RBP, TIMP-2, and IGFBP-7 concentrations did not differ among groups at delivery. In conclusion, proximal tubular dysfunction, as assessed by A1M and C5b-9, developed during the interval between the end of the second trimester and delivery in patients with PE. However, this was not matched by abnormalities in markers previously associated with tubular cell injury (KIM-1, IGFBP-7, and TIMP-2).
Protection against Legionnaire's Disease: Recombinant Flagellin A of Legionella pneumophila Can Induce Protective Immunity against Bacteremia in a BALB/c Murine Model
Authors: Mohabati Mobarez Ashraf , Ahmadrajabi Roya , Khoramabadi Nima , Salmanian Ali-Hatef
Published: April 2017

To investigate the immunoprotective effects of the recombinant type A flagellin (FLA), the flaA gene of Legionella pneumophila serogroup 1 strain Paris was cloned into pET28a(+). Recombinant FLA (rFLA) was overexpressed in E. coli BL21 (DE3) and purified by Ni2+ exchange chromatography. Female BALB/c aged 6-8 weeks were immunized with 20 μg of rFLA. Nonimmunized mice along with mice inoculated with a sublethal dose of live L. pneumophila intravenously were considered as negative and positive controls, respectively. A significant serum antibody response was observed in female BALB/c mice immunized with rFLA. Production of IFN-γ and IL-12, and TNF-α in the serum and the splenocyte cultures, and antigen-specific splenocyte proliferation suggested a strong innate and adaptive cell-mediated immunity response in rFLA-immunized mice. Intravenous lethal challenge with L. pneumophila serogroup 1 (strain Paris) showed that 60% of mice immunized with rFLA survived in a 10-day follow-up survey. These results show that rFLA from L. pneumophila can elicit strong innate and adaptive immune responses and suggest the possibility of a long-term immunity against lethal challenge with L. pneumophila.
Effect of Topical Iloprost and Nitroglycerin on Gastric Microcirculation and Barrier Function during Hemorrhagic Shock in Dogs
Authors: Truse Richard , Hinterberg Jonas , Schulz Jan , Herminghaus Anna , Weber Andreas , Mettler-Altmann Tabea , Bauer Inge , Picker Olaf , Vollmer Christian
Published: April 2017

Background: Topical drug application is used to avoid systemic side effects. The aim of this study was to analyze whether locally applied iloprost or nitroglycerin influence gastric mucosal perfusion, oxygenation, and barrier function during physiological and hemorrhagic conditions. Methods: In repeated experiments, 5 anesthetized dogs received iloprost, nitroglycerin, or normal saline during physiological and hemorrhagic (-20% blood volume) conditions. Macro- and microcirculatory variables were recorded continuously. Gastric barrier function was assessed via translocation of sucrose into the blood. Results: During hemorrhage, gastric mucosal oxygenation decreased from 77 ± 4 to 37 ± 7%. This effect was attenuated by nitroglycerin (78 ± 6 to 47 ± 13%) and iloprost (82 ± 4 to 54 ± 9%). Sucrose plasma levels increased during hemorrhage from 7 ± 4 to 55 ± 15 relative amounts. This was alleviated by nitroglycerin (5 ± 8 to 29 ± 38 relative amounts). These effects were independent of systemic hemodynamic variables. Conclusions: During hemorrhage, topical nitroglycerin and iloprost improve regional gastric oxygenation without affecting perfusion. Nitroglycerin attenuated the shock-induced impairment of the mucosal barrier integrity. Thus, local drug application improves gastric microcirculation without compromising systemic hemodynamic variables, and it may also protect mucosal barrier function.
Circadian Plasma Cortisol Measurements Reflect Severity of Hypercortisolemia in Children with Different Etiologies of Endogenous Cushing Syndrome
Authors: Tirosh Amit , Lodish Maya B. , Lyssikatos Charalampos , Belyavskaya Elena , Papadakis Georgios Z. , Stratakis Constantine A.
Published: April 2017

Background: The utility of circadian cortisol variation in estimating the degree of hypercortisolemia in different forms of endogenous Cushing syndrome (CS) has not been evaluated in children yet. Methods: A retrospective cohort study, including children who underwent surgery due to CS (n = 115), was divided into children with a pituitary adenoma (Cushing disease) (n = 88), primary adrenal CS (n = 21), or ectopic adrenocorticotropin- or corticotropin-releasing hormone (ACTH-/CRH)-secreting tumors (n = 6). Circadian plasma cortisol measurements were obtained at 11: 30 p.m. and at midnight, and at 7: 30 and 8: 00 a.m. The ratios between the morning and late-night concentrations were calculated. Results: Plasma cortisol early-morning and midnight (AM/PM) ratios negatively correlated with 24-h urinary free cortisol (UFC) collections among the full study population and in each of the individual etiologies. Plasma ACTH concentrations positively correlated with plasma cortisol AM/PM ratios among patients with ACTH-independent CS. Finally, patients with primary pigmented nodular adrenocortical disease showed no correlation between UFC collections and the plasma cortisol AM/PM ratio, in contrast with other etiologies for primary adrenal CS, which showed a strong negative correlation between them. Conclusion: Our study shows the association between the plasma cortisol AM/PM ratio and the degree of hypercortisolemia in children with CS.
Development of a Smartphone App for Visualizing Heart Sounds and Murmurs
Authors: Mamorita Noritaka , Arisaka Naoya , Isonaka Risa , Kawakami Tadashi , Takeuchi Akihiro
Published: April 2017

Background: Auscultation is one of the basic techniques for the diagnosis of heart disease. However, the interpretation of heart sounds and murmurs is a highly subjective and difficult skill. Objectives: To assist the auscultation skill at the bedside, a handy phonocardiogram was developed using a smartphone (Samsung Galaxy J, Android OS 4.4.2) and an external microphone attached to a stethoscope. Methods and Results: The Android app used Java classes, “AudioRecord,” “AudioTrack,” and “View,” that recorded sounds, replayed sounds, and plotted sound waves, respectively. Sound waves were visualized in real-time, simultaneously replayed on the smartphone, and saved to WAV files. To confirm the availability of the app, 26 kinds of heart sounds and murmurs sounded on a human patient simulator were recorded using three different methods: a bell-type stethoscope, a diaphragm-type stethoscope, and a direct external microphone without a stethoscope. The recorded waveforms were subjectively confirmed and were found to be similar to the reference waveforms. Conclusions: The real-time visualization of the sound waves on the smartphone may help novices to readily recognize and learn to distinguish the various heart sounds and murmurs in real-time.
Perioperative Serum Carcinoembryonic Antigen Levels Predict Recurrence and Survival of Patients with Pathological T2-4 Gastric Cancer Treated with Curative Gastrectomy
Authors: Uda Hiroaki , Kanda Mitsuro , Tanaka Chie , Kobayashi Daisuke , Inaoka Kenichi , Tanaka Yuri , Hayashi Masamichi , Iwata Naoki , Yamada Suguru , Fujii Tsutomu , Sugimoto Hiroyuki , Murotani Kenta , Fujiwara Michitaka , Kodera Yasuhiro
Published: April 2017

Background/Aims: Do serum carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) and carbohydrate antigen (CA) 19-9 levels serve as prognostic indicators in patients with gastric cancer (GC)? This is a question that has long been disputed. The aim of this study was to evaluate the significance of perioperative serum levels of CEA and CA19-9 for predicting the recurrence and long-term survival after patients with pT2-4 GC undergo curative gastrectomy. Methods: This study included 251 patients with radically resected pT2-4 GC without preoperative treatment. Associations between the preoperative and postoperative serum levels of CEA or CA19-9 and postoperative long-term outcomes and recurrence patterns were evaluated. Results: Preoperative CEA >5.0 ng/mL was an independent prognostic factor of overall survival. Elevation of both preoperative CEA and CA19-9 levels showed no synergistic adverse effects on prognosis. Preoperative levels of these markers achieved superior predictive performance compared with the postoperative values. Adverse prognosis is significantly associated with persistent elevation of CEA levels before and after gastrectomy. Elevation of CEA levels, particularly at postoperative measurement, was significantly associated with hematogenous recurrence. Conclusion: Determination of perioperative CEA levels facilitated predictions of recurrence patterns and prognosis among patients with pT2-4 GC who underwent curative gastrectomy.
Loss of Resistance to Angiotensin II–Induced Hypertension in the Jackson Laboratory Recombination-Activating Gene Null Mouse on the C57BL/6J Background
Authors: Ji Hong , Pai Amrita V. , West Crystal A. , Wu Xie , Speth Robert C. , Sandberg Kathryn
Published: April 2017

Resistance to angiotensin II (Ang II)–induced hypertension in T-cell–deficient male mice with a targeted mutation in the recombination-activating gene-1 (
Rag1
) on the C57BL/6J background (B6.

Rag1
−/−

-M), which was reported by 5 independent laboratories including ours before 2015, has been lost. In mice purchased from Jackson Laboratory in 2015 and 2016, the time course and magnitude increase in mean arterial pressure induced by 2 weeks of Ang II infusion at 490 ng/kg per minute was identical between B6.

Rag1
−/−

-M and male wild-type littermates. Moreover, there were no differences in the time course or magnitude increase in mean arterial pressure at the lowest dose of Ang II (200 ng/kg per minute) that increased mean arterial pressure. This loss in Ang II resistance is independent of T cells. Angiotensin type 1-receptor binding was 1.4-fold higher in glomeruli isolated from recently purchased B6.

Rag1
−/−

-M suggesting an increase in renal angiotensin type 1-receptor activity masks the blood pressure protection afforded by the lack of T cells. The phenotypic change in B6.

Rag1
−/−

-M has implications for investigators using this strain to study mechanisms of T-cell modulation of Ang II–dependent blood pressure control. These findings also serve as a reminder that the universal drive for genetic variation occurs in all animals including inbred mouse strains and that spontaneous mutations leading to phenotypic change can compromise experimental reproducibility over time and place. Finally, these observations illustrate the importance of including experimental details about the location and time period over which animals are bred in publications involving animal studies to promote rigor and reproducibility in the scientific literature.
Association of Tenofovir Use With Risk of Incident Heart Failure in HIV‐Infected Patients
Authors: Chen Ruijun , Scherzer Rebecca , Hsue Priscilla Y. , Jotwani Vasantha , Estrella Michelle M. , Horberg Michael A. , Grunfeld Carl , Shlipak Michael G.
Published: April 2017

Background

The antiretroviral medication, tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (
TDF
), is used by most human immunodeficiency virus–infected persons in the United States despite higher risks of chronic kidney disease. Although chronic kidney disease is a strong risk factor for heart failure (
HF
), the association of
TDF
with incident
HF
is unclear.

Methods and Results

We identified 21 435 human immunodeficiency virus–infected patients in the United States Veterans Health Administration actively using antiretrovirals between 2002 and 2011. We excluded patients with a prior diagnosis of
HF
.
TDF
was analyzed categorically (current, past, or never use) and continuously (per year of use). Proportional hazards regression and fully adjusted marginal structural models were used to determine the association of
TDF
exposure with risk of incident
HF
after adjustment for demographic, human immunodeficiency virus–related, and cardiovascular risk factors. During follow‐up, 438 incident
HF
events occurred. Unadjusted 5‐year event rates for current, past, and never users of
TDF
were 0.9 (95%
CI
0.7‐1.1), 1.7 (1.4‐2.2), and 4.5 (3.9‐5.0), respectively. In fully adjusted analyses,
HF
risk was markedly lower in current
TDF
users (
HR
=0.68; 95%
CI
0.53‐0.86) compared with never users. Among current
TDF
users, each additional year of
TDF
exposure was associated with a 21% lower risk of incident
HF
(95%
CI
: 0.68‐0.92). When limited to antiretroviral‐naive patients,
HF
risk remained lower in current
TDF
users (
HR
=0.53; 95%
CI
0.36‐0.78) compared to never users.

Conclusions

Among a large national cohort of human immunodeficiency virus–infected patients,
TDF
use was strongly associated with lower risk of incident
HF
. These findings warrant confirmation in other populations, both with
TDF
and the recently approved tenofovir alafenamide fumarate.
Bullets for Ballots: Electoral Participation Provisions and Enduring Peace after Civil Conflict
Authors: Matanock Aila M.
Published: April 2017

Why does fighting recur following some civil conflict peace settlements, but not others? What kind of agreements are associated with more enduring peace? Post-conflict elections can often complicate and even undermine peace agreements. Agreements that contain “electoral participation provisions,” however, may help stabilize settlements and produce more enduring peace. Electoral participation provisions mandate that rebel groups be allowed to compete alongside the government in post-conflict elections. Such provisions encourage external actors, such as intergovernmental organizations and foreign donors, to become engaged in post-conflict elections. As part of this engagement, they can provide incentives to the parties to adhere to the terms of the settlement, as well as detect and sanction instances of noncompliance. New cross-national data suggest that conflict after peace settlements recurs less often when electoral participation provisions are included than when they are not. The data also suggest that this pacifying relationship holds when combatants expect international engagement.
A Is for Apple: the Role of Letter–Word Associations in the Development of Grapheme–Colour Synaesthesia
Authors: Mankin Jennifer L. , Simner Julia
Published: April 2017

This study investigates the origins of specific letter–colour associations experienced by people with grapheme–colour synaesthesia. We present novel evidence that frequently observed trends in synaesthesia (e.g., A is typically red) can be tied to orthographic associations between letters and words (e.g., ‘A is for apple’), which are typically formed during literacy acquisition. In our experiments, we first tested members of the general population to show that certain words are consistently associated with letters of the alphabet (e.g., A is for apple), which we named index words. Sampling from the same population, we then elicited the typical colour associations of these index words (e.g., apples are red) and used the letter → index word → colour connections to predict which colours and letters would be paired together based on these orthographic-semantic influences. We then looked at direct letter–colour associations (e.g., red, blue…) from both synaesthetes and non-synaesthetes. In both populations, we show statistically that the colour predicted by index words matches significantly with the letter–colour mappings: that is, red because A is for apple and apples are prototypically red. We therefore conclude that letter–colour associations in both synaesthetes and non-synaesthetes are tied to early-learned letter–word associations.
Regaining control of errant agents? Agency slack at the European Commission and the World Health Organization
Authors: Heldt Eugénia
Published: April 2017

Under which conditions are principals able to regain control when agency slack has occured? While existing research highlights a number of important factors related to the conditions under which agents engage in slack, scholars have to a less extent investigated which causal mechanisms affect the ability of states to regain control of their errant agents. Extending the principal–agent literature, this contribution argues that the ability of principals to regain control of their agents depends on three causal mechanisms: the type of monitoring mechanisms; the extent of fragmentation within an international organization; and the credibility of sanctions available to member states. To illustrate this argument, I compare two cases of agency slack: at the European Commission during the Eurozone crisis in 2015; and at the World Health Organization in the 1990s. The findings suggest that regaining control of runaway agents after slack has occurred is easier when there is a low level of fragmentation within an organization and states have centralized monitoring mechanisms and credible sanction mechanisms, such as budgetary contractions, at their disposal.
CyberKnife for Treatment of Vestibular Schwannoma: A Meta‐analysis
Authors: Mahboubi Hossein , Sahyouni Ronald , Moshtaghi Omid , Tadokoro Kent , Ghavami Yaser , Ziai Kasra , Lin Harrison W. , Djalilian Hamid R.
Published: April 2017

Objectives

(1) Perform a meta‐analysis of the available data on the outcomes of CyberKnife radiosurgery for treatment of vestibular schwannomas (VSs) in the published English‐language literature and (2) evaluate the collective outcomes of CyberKnife treatment with respect to tumor control and hearing preservation.

Data Sources

A thorough literature search of published English‐language articles was performed in the PubMed, Ovid, and Cochrane databases.

Review Methods

A database search was conducted with the keywords “CyberKnife” and “vestibular schwannoma” or “acoustic neuroma.” A total of 25 papers were found and reviewed. Data were extracted for patient demographics, number of patients with neurofibromatosis type 2, pretreatment hearing status, tumor size, margin dose, and follow‐up duration. The primary outcome variables evaluated were tumor control and hearing preservation.

Results

After careful review of the published articles, 11 papers reported data on outcomes of CyberKnife treatment for VS and were included in the analysis, comprising 800 patients studied during 1998 to 2012. The reported mean tumor volume ranged from 0.02 to 19.8 cm3, and the follow‐up duration ranged from 6 to 120 months. Margin dose varied from 14 to 25 Gy. The collective mean tumor control rate was 96.3% (95% CI: 94.0%‐98.5%). The collective hearing preservation rate was 79.1% (95% CI: 71.0%‐87.3%) in 427 patients with measurable hearing.

Conclusion

Clinical data on outcomes of CyberKnife radiosurgery for treatment of VSs are sparse and primarily limited to single‐institution analyses, with considerable variation in tumor volume and follow‐up time. This meta‐analysis not only provides an in‐depth analysis of available data in the literature but also reviews reported outcomes and complications.
Microbiology of the Upper and Lower Airways in Pediatric Cystic Fibrosis Patients
Authors: Sobin Lindsay , Kawai Kosuke , Irace Alexandria L. , Gergin Ozgul , Cunningham Michael , Sawicki Gregory S. , Adil Eelam A.
Published: April 2017

Objective

To evaluate the microbiology of the upper and lower airways in pediatric cystic fibrosis (CF) patients who underwent sinus surgery.

Study Design

Retrospective case series with chart review.

Setting

Tertiary care children’s hospital.

Subjects and Methods

A total of 201 paired sinus and pulmonary cultures from 105 CF patients were identified between 1996 and 2014. Demographics and culture results were analyzed.

Results

The mean age of patients was 11.2 ± 5.4 years (range, 1‐27 years), and approximately one‐half were female. Methicillin‐sensitive Staphylococcus aureus was the most common pathogen overall. A significantly higher prevalence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa (32% for pulmonary and 37% for sinus cultures) was observed in older patients versus younger patients (P <. 001). There was low to moderate agreement between sinus and pulmonary cultures (Kappa statistic range, 0.03‐0.56). The prevalence of methicillin‐resistant S aureus (MRSA) increased significantly for lower respiratory tract culture (from 5% to 16%) and sinus culture (from 5% to 27%) between 1996‐2004 and 2010‐2014 (P =. 016 and P <. 001, respectively). The prevalence of positive sinus cultures increased from 40% to 85% between 1996‐2004 and 2010‐2014 (P =. 018). Patients with pulmonary MRSA were more likely to be coinfected with pulmonary P aeruginosa (risk ratio, 2.4; 95% CI, 1.2‐4.8; P =. 015) or Aspergillus fumigatus (risk ratio, 2.2; 95% CI, 1.2‐4.8; P =. 035).

Conclusions

There is low to moderate correlation between pulmonary and sinus pathogens in CF patients. This is important to consider when treating infections. The prevalence of MRSA in sinus cultures has increased over time and warrants further investigation.
Ion-pair complexes formation between fluoroquinolone antibiotics and methyl red and their use for the extraction-spectrophotometric analysis
Authors: Korkuna Olha , Zhak Tetyana , Smolinska Maria
Published: April 2017

The new spectrophotometric methods of fluoroquinolones: enrofloxacin, norfloxacin, and ofloxacin determination with the methyl red are based on ion-pair complex formation between fluoroquinolones and methyl red in acidic medium at pH 3–4 and subsequent three times extraction of the reaction products by chloroform. The obtained orange extract has an absorbance maximum at λmax = 492 nm. Optimum conditions for the formation as well as for the extraction of ion-pair complexes between fluoroquinolones and methyl red at the presence of acetate buffer and potassium chloride solutions have been established: C (CH3COONa) = 0.85 M, C (KCl) = 2 M, pH = 3.8. Effective molar absorbtivity of ion-pair complexes chloroform extracts is ɛ492∼3·103 l mol−1 cm−1. New extraction-spectrophotometric methods for fluoroquinolone determination with methyl red were developed on the basis of the optimum reaction conditions. Concentration range for the system fluoroquinolone – methyl red is (2.5–25)·10−6 M; limit of detection for enrofloxacin is Cmin = 2.48·10−6 M, for norfloxacin – Cmin = 3.07·10−6 M, for ofloxacin – Cmin = 3.17·10−6 M.
Lanthanide metal–organic frameworks: Structural, thermal and sorption properties
Authors: Łyszczek Renata , Mazur Liliana , Ostasz Agnieszka , Bartyzel Agata , Głuchowska Halina
Published: April 2017

Two coordination polymers of erbium(III) and neodymium(III) ions with 1,3,5-benzenetricarboxylic acid were synthesized under the solvothermal conditions from the dimethylformamide solution. They were characterized by the attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform spectroscopy (ATR-FTIR), thermogravimetry and differential scanning calorimetry (TG-DSC), thermogravimetric analysis coupled with Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (TG-FTIR) and X-ray diffractions methods. The single-crystal X-ray analysis confirmed formation of three-dimensional framework of Er(III) 1,3,5-benzenetricarboxylate with the channels occupied by dimethylformamide and water molecules. Porosity of crystalline complexes was investigated by the nitrogen sorption experiments. The Nd and Er compounds exhibit real porosity with the BET surface area of 259 and 225 m2/g, respectively. The Horvath–Kawazoe analysis of pore-size distributions for the obtained complexes points out to their microporous character.
Nanostructured forms of carbon deposit obtained during cracking of methane reaction over nanocrystalline iron catalysts
Authors: Maj Kamila , Kocemba Ireneusz
Published: April 2017

During catalytic cracking of methane reaction, different carbon nanostructures can be formed. This paper shows the results of a characteristic nanostructured carbon deposit obtained during cracking of methane reaction over nanocrystalline iron catalysts with or without cobalt addition. The properties of the carbon deposit were determined by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscope with energy dispersive spectrometer equipment, thermogravimetry-differential thermal analysis coupled with mass spectrometry, time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry analysis and surface area analysis (Brunauer-Emmett-Teller isotherm [BET]). Significant differences in the morphology and properties of the obtained carbon were found. The mechanism of the formation of carbon nanostructures for both iron catalysts is proposed.
In-parallel connected intermittent hemodialysis through ECMO does not affect hemodynamic parameters derived from transpulmonary thermodilution
Authors: Lahmer Tobias , Mayr Ulrich , Rasch Sebastian , Batres Baires Gonzalo , Schmid Roland M. , Huber Wolfgang
Published: April 2017

Introduction:

We report a case of renal replacement therapy (RRT) during extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) via a single venous access and analyze the feasibility of transpulmonary thermodilution (TPTD) for hemodynamic monitoring.

Case report:

ECMO and RRT connected into the ECMO-extracorporeal circuit were performed via a single venous access because of multiple venous thromboses. An indicator for TPTD and pulse contour analysis (PCA) was applied into the central venous catheter (CVC) placed in the right vena jugularis. TPTD and PCA demonstrated comparable cardiac index.

Discussion:

Congruent data for TPTD and PCA could be observed during TPTD and PCA measurements before ECMO, after ECMO and during ECMO and RRT. This might be explained by high blood flow having the lowest impact on TPTD by venous drainage in the femoral vein/distal vena cava and the TPTD indicator injection using the jugular CVC, as reported in our case.

Conclusion:

Hemodynamic monitoring using TPTD and PCA during ECMO/RRT is feasible and provides reliable results.
Growth Plate Lesions of Fattening Bulls
Authors: Levi M. , Dittmer K. E. , Gentile A. , Beltrame A. , Bolcato M. , Morgante M. , Fiore E. , Benazzi C.
Published: April 2017

Lameness related to growth plate lesions is an important problem in the beef industry. This article describes the macroscopic and microscopic lesions in the distal metatarsal physis of bulls from an association of farmers in northeastern Italy. The metatarsal bones of 62 bulls (12 with severe lameness and 50 without lameness), average age 16.44 ± 1.72 months, were examined at the abattoir. The animals came from the same geographic area and shared intensive husbandry practices and a diet based on maize starch. A total of 124 metatarsal bones were sectioned, and the distal metaphyseal growth plate was grossly examined. Twenty-three cases, including 12 lame and 9 nonlame animals with visible lesions on macroscopic examination, and 2 controls (a total of 46 physes) were examined microscopically. Eight of 12 bulls with severe lameness had a chronic purulent physitis in at least 1 limb. Segmental thickening of the hypertrophic zone, consistent with osteochondrosis (OC), was present contralaterally ( n = 3 cases) and bilaterally ( n = 3 cases) in 6 of these animals. In the group of nonlame bulls, 19 of 50 (38%) had similar segmental thickening of the physis consistent with OC. In the remaining bulls, minor findings included partial closure of the physis and a variable degree of metaphyseal hyperemia. A high incidence of OC was found in both lame and nonlame fattening bulls. It is likely that lame animals were clinically more severe due to secondary hematogenous implantation of bacteria, resulting in a purulent physitis and severe lameness that required emergency slaughter in some cases.
Examining the Trade-off Between Social Outreach and Financial Efficiency: Evidence from Micro-finance Institutions in South Asia
Authors: Huq Begum Ismat Ara , Azad Md. Abul Kalam , Masum Abdul Kadar Muhammad , Wanke Peter , Rahman Md. Azizur
Published: April 2017

The micro-finance institutions (MFI) have been successfully operating for poverty alleviation. The recent turmoil in financial sustainability of major MFIs worldwide has raised the question of whether trade-off exists: Financial performance cannot be achieved without sacrificing the main objective—social outreach. This article examines the presence of such a trade-off by examining the empirical evidence from 127 South Asian MFIs over 2009–2013. The findings of this article reveal that MFIs have neutral trade-off in achieving the double bottom line: financial performance and social outreach. Moreover, there is a mission drift which is caused by higher portfolio at risk and resulted in lower capacity in targeting the poorest segment of citizens. In case of social outreach, it is found that financial performance of MFIs is dependent on the size of MFIs, years of operations and lending processes (group lending).
Looking through the Glass of Indian Culture: Consumer Behaviour in Modern and Postmodern Era
Authors: Rehman Varisha
Published: April 2017

This article seeks to demonstrate the importance of the integration of specific cultural traits of Indian consumers on their buying behaviour. It offers better and more comprehensive insights into the factors that affect the buying behaviour of Generation X, Y and Z consumers. Through a conceptual framework, this article tries to bridge the gap between the Indian consumers’ perceptions and their actual buying behaviour. The study reported in this article also identifies the ‘influencers’ and ‘intermediaries’ of consumer behaviour for Generation X, Y and Z consumers. Participation and observation techniques were used to collect data from 14 Indian consumers. The analysis of data offered new empirical insights into Indian consumers. This article puts forward a conceptual framework of the impact of Indian culture on consumer behaviour for two settings—modern and postmodern era—that can be used by management practitioners for formulating their strategies regarding their product and promotion.
Intramuscular Lorazepam for Status Epilepticus in Children With Complex Medical and Physical Disabilities
Authors: Johnson Peter N. , Nguyen Anna , Neely Stephen B. , Johnson Michael
Published: April 2017

Background: A protocol was developed to achieve status epilepticus (SE) resolution: step 1, intramuscular (IM) lorazepam; step 2, repeat IM lorazepam; step 3, rectal diazepam. Objective: The primary objective was to identify the number of patients with SE resolution after step 1. Secondary objectives included categorization of mean number of IM doses per episode and patient factors associated with SE resolution. Methods: This was a retrospective study of patients <21 years old with complex medical and physical disabilities admitted over 5 years. For analysis, IM dosing was categorized as high dose (>0.05 mg/kg/dose) and low dose (≤0.05 mg/kg/dose). A generalized linear mixed-model regression was used to assess the relationship with SE resolution at step 1 and patient characteristics. Results: A total of 44 patients were included (n = 162 episodes). SE resolution was noted in 68.5% of episodes after step 1. Models were stratified by gender to present odds of SE resolution at step 1 versus step 2/3. For women, no covariate was significant. For men, the odds of SE resolution at step 1 were 14.9 times higher in those receiving 2 versus 4 maintenance antiepileptics, adjusting for covariates. Additionally, odds of resolution at step 1 was 3.1 times higher for high-dose versus low-dose lorazepam in males, adjusting for covariates, but was not statistically significant. Conclusions: SE resolution was noted in 68.5% after step 1. Unadjusted, females had a higher odds of SE resolution at step 1 than males. In males, high-dose lorazepam had higher odds of SE resolution at step 1 than low-dose lorazepam, though not significantly different.
Accessing care summaries at point-of-care: Implementation of mobile devices for personal carers in aged care
Authors: Brimelow Rachel E , Gibney Annie , Meakin Suzanne , Wollin Judy A
Published: April 2017

Continued development of mobile technology now allows access to information at the point-of-care. This study was conducted to evaluate the use of one such tool on a mobile device, from the carer perspective. Caregivers across 12 aged-care facilities were supplied mobile devices to access a Picture Care Plan (PCP), a specific tool designed around the role of the personal carer. An anonymous questionnaire was subsequently completed by 85 carers with questions relating to participants’ experience. Perceived helpfulness of the PCP at the point-of-care was high (87%). A significant number of participants believed the use of the PCP increased resident safety and quality of care (76%). Practical components related to the carrying of the device, network speed and the requirement to maintain communication with senior members of staff to ascertain updates were also expressed by participants. Findings suggest that staff are receptive to adoption of mobile devices to access care directives at the point-of-care and that the technology is useful.
Information and communication technology and the future of healthcare: Results of a multi-scenario Delphi survey
Authors: Jungwirth David , Haluza Daniela
Published: April 2017

Technological advances toward consumer-specific expectations require a sustained commitment and coordination across policy- and decision-makers. The present scenario-based study aimed at identifying prevailing perceptions regarding telehealth applications among Austrian healthcare experts. During a two-round online Delphi survey, panelists rated perceived benefits, obstacles, innovativeness, desirability, and estimated implementation date of 10 telehealth scenarios. Panelists (n = 73, 74% males) perceived that the implementation of telehealth scenarios could especially improve patients’ knowledge, quality of social healthcare, and living standard. In contrast, the three top-ranked obstacles were costs, technical prerequisites, and data security. Survey participants rated innovativeness of the presented future scenarios as quite high, whereas perceived desirability was moderate. Overall, ratings suggested precautious attitudes toward technological innovations. The survey findings suggest building taskforces and enhancing communication between healthcare stakeholders to proactively shape the future of telehealth in Austria.
Tweeting influenza vaccine to cardiovascular health community
Authors: Krittanawong Chayakrit , Tunhasiriwet Anusith , Chirapongsathorn Sakkarin , Kitai Takeshi
Published: April 2017

Globally, among infectious diseases, influenza is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality. Individuals with chronic conditions, including cardiovascular disease and diabetes, are particularly vulnerable to complications of an influenza infection. The European Society of Cardiology recommended annual influenza vaccinations for patients with cardiovascular disease. Numerous studies have suggested a link between influenza and increased risk of cardiovascular events. Despite its proven benefits, little is known about the reason for the underutilization of influenza vaccination. We present the findings of an assessment of patients’ perception of the influenza vaccine and the reason for its underutilization, by data mining from Twitter.
Guillain-Barré syndrome in pregnancy: A case report
Authors: Hukuimwe Misai , Matsa Tawanda T , Gidiri Muchabayiwa F
Published: April 2017

Guillain-Barré syndrome is a rare condition in pregnancy which is characterised by symmetrical progressive ascending polyneuropathy. A case of a 16-year-old nulliparous woman who presented with rapidly progressive limb paralysis following an upper respiratory tract infection a week prior to presentation is discussed. She was intubated as she had developed respiratory failure and managed in the intensive care unit by a multidisciplinary team. Plasma exchange and intravenous immunoglobulin were not readily available so she was managed conservatively. The management of Guillain-Barré syndrome, maternal and foetal outcomes have been discussed.
Biomimetic strategies for fracture repair: Engineering the cell microenvironment for directed tissue formation
Authors: Vas Wollis J , Shah Mittal , Al Hosni Rawiya , Owen Helen C , Roberts Scott J
Published: April 2017

Complications resulting from impaired fracture healing have major clinical implications on fracture management strategies. Novel concepts taken from developmental biology have driven research strategies towards the elaboration of regenerative approaches that can truly harness the complex cellular events involved in tissue formation and repair. Advances in polymer technology and a better understanding of naturally derived scaffolds have given rise to novel biomaterials with an increasing ability to recapitulate native tissue environments. This coupled with advances in the understanding of stem cell biology and technology has opened new avenues for regenerative strategies with true clinical translatability. These advances have provided the impetus to develop alternative approaches to enhance the fracture repair process. We provide an update on these advances, with a focus on the development of novel biomimetic approaches for bone regeneration and their translational potential.
Societal Culture in Iceland and Lithuania: Managerial Implications
Authors: Snaebjornsson Inga Minelgaite , Edvardsson Ingi Runar , Littrell Romie F.
Published: April 2017

This article contributes to cross-cultural management literature, by providing empirical data from two underresearched countries, to serve in the future as benchmark cultural shift research. Furthermore, it illustrates not only the insufficiency of mare statement of cultural dimension difference/similarities but also a need to contextualize them. Results indicate that Icelandic and Lithuanian societal cultures are different on three out of seven of Hofstede’s dimensions; however, these differences have considerable effect on management practices. Results also present how a similar score of the same dimension fails to explain big differences within societies regarding a particular aspect (e.g. gender gap) and suggest that societal cultural differences have implications on management practices regarding work–life balance, motivational system, organizational structure, and level of formalization. Icelanders will put more importance on leisure and will feel happier in general, whereas Lithuanians will have higher work ethics. Lithuanians will be inclined to higher need for achievement (particularly for expatriate management). More structure, formalization, hierarchy, and direct following of the regulations can be expected in Lithuania. This contribution fills the gap in the literature by comparing societal cultures of two countries that have been neglected in cross-cultural research. Both countries are undergoing societal changes and the results of this research can serve in the future as a benchmark for indication of cultural swift. Furthermore, this article outlines the practical implications of societal cultural differences for management.
Why Me? An Exploratory Qualitative Study of Drinking Gamers’ Reasons for Selecting Other Players to Drink
Authors: Audley Shannon , Grenier Kelcie , Martin Jessica L. , Ramos Jeremy
Published: April 2017

A drinking game (DG) is a high-risk drinking activity because it consists of rules that facilitate heavy drinking. The opportunity to select another player to drink is a feature of certain games, which makes DGs unique among other high-risk drinking activities. Thus, the present study’s aims were to examine the primary reasons why DG participants select another player to drink and why someone believes she or he was selected. We collected qualitative, online responses to open-ended questions about the personal qualities that increase players’ chances of being selected to drink while playing a DG ( N = 409; emerging adults ages 18–25 years; 54.3% women; 41.6% noncurrent college students). Overall, most participants reported perceived personality qualities, followed by a desire for interaction or alcohol consumption, as the primary reason that players are selected, why they are selected, and why they select other players to drink. Implications for practice and future research directions are briefly discussed.