bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Advanced Practice Registered Nurses and Long‐Acting Reversible Contraception
Authors: Kelly Patricia J. , Cheng An‐Lin , Carlson Kimberly , Witt Jacki
Published: March 2017

Introduction

Advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) are in an excellent position to address the high rates of unintended pregnancy in the United States by providing long‐acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs). These methods are significant in their effectiveness in preventing pregnancy in individual women and in having population‐level effects on unintended pregnancy. The aim of this study was to learn more about APRN practices around long‐acting reversible contraception and influences on those practices.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey of APRNs who provide women's health services was conducted during the summer of 2015 using an existing adapted instrument with items on personal and patient characteristics, opinions, practices, and training around LARC methods. Zero‐inflated Poisson regression models were conducted to study the factors that influenced the number of LARC insertions in the past year.

Results

While 84% of the 390 respondents were inserting intrauterine devices (IUDs) and 77% single‐rod implants, only 16% of these were inserting more devices than 5 years earlier. The most significant predictor of placement of these contraceptives was the clinical practice of requiring only one visit for completion.

Discussion

National guidelines and recommendations have been in place for several years stating that women should be able to receive the contraceptive method of their choice in just one clinic visit. Women's access to LARCs from APRNs may be less than optimal. Additional research is needed to understand if the limitations in accessibility of this important reproductive health service are a function of clinician practices or clinic policies.
Dyspareunia in a Survivor of Childhood Sexual Abuse
Authors: LoGiudice Jenna A.
Published: March 2017

Dyspareunia is a frequent chief concern encountered by midwives and other women's health care providers. There are many possible etiologies for dyspareunia, including a history of childhood sexual abuse, and approaching assessment in a holistic manner is necessary to identify the etiology. This case report presents evidence on the importance of screening a woman who presents with dyspareunia in a therapeutic manner to facilitate disclosure of sexual abuse. Best practices for screening for sexual violence, along with recommendations for providing gynecologic care to survivors, are offered. By understanding the long‐term sequelae of sexual abuse and through screening all women, midwives and other women's health care providers can facilitate healing and treatment for survivors.
A peel‐off facial mask comprising myoinositol and trehalose‐loaded liposomes improves adult female acne by reducing local hyperandrogenism and activating autophagy
Authors: Fabbrocini Gabriella , Capasso Claudia , Donnarumma Marianna , Cantelli Mariateresa , Le Maître Michel , Monfrecola Giuseppe , Emanuele Enzo
Published: March 2017

Background

Hyperandrogenism and reduced skin autophagy have been implicated in the pathogenesis of adult female acne (AFA). Here, we tested whether a ready‐to‐use peel‐off facial mask containing myoinositol (an androgen inhibitor) and trehalose‐loaded liposomes (as activators of cutaneous autophagy) applied overnight every other day for 60 days can improve AFA. We also sought to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying the clinical effects.

Objectives

We conducted an uncontrolled, open‐label clinical study in 40 cases of AFA to investigate the effect of the facial mask on lesion count, sebum production (measured with the Sebutape® technique), and Global Acne Grading System (GAGS) scale. We also investigated the changes from baseline to the end of treatment in androgen and beclin‐1 levels (as a marker of authophagy) in skin biopsy supernatants.

Methods

Forty Caucasian patients with AFA were enrolled. Changes in clinical and molecular endpoints before and after treatment were investigated.

Results

The mean counts of comedones, papules, pustules, and nodular lesions decreased significantly (all P<.001). The mean Sebutape® score was reduced from 3.4±0.6 to 1.8±0.2 (P<.001), whereas the mean GAGS scale score decreased from 16.8±5.3 at baseline to 9.8±4.6 after treatment (P<.001). A significant decrease in testosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate in skin biopsy supernatants was observed, whereas beclin‐1 levels increased significantly (P<.001).

Conclusion

A ready‐to‐use peel‐off facial mask containing myoinositol and trehalose‐loaded liposomes improved the cosmetic appearance of AFA by reducing cutaneous androgen content and promoting skin autophagy.
PDGFRA mRNA is overexpressed in oral cancer patients as compared to normal subjects with a significant trend of overexpression among tobacco users
Authors: Ong Hui Shan , Gokavarapu Sandhya , Tian Zhen , Li Jiang , Xu Qin , Cao Wei , Zhang Chen Ping
Published: March 2017

Background

Platelet‐derived growth factors alpha (PDGFA) is a tyrosine kinase receptor activator which is known to be amplified in the malignancies, and their expression levels are correlated to tumor progression and reduced overall survival. The expression of PDGFRA is different among the tumors and normal tissues; furthermore, their expression level is site specific. Under a physiological condition, PDGFRA and its ligand are expressed in distinct cell populations and activated in a paracrine manner. Nevertheless, heterodimer characteristic of PDGFRA allows it to be trans‐activated by non‐specific ligands or via autocrine manner. The future of cancer therapy can be based on PDGFRA receptor blockade and therefore warrants further investigation to determine the differing expression of PDGFRA between controls and patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC).

Methods

We performed a case‐control study of 111 patients with newly diagnosed tongue squamous cell carcinoma and 111 control subjects without a cancer diagnosis, matched for age and gender, to evaluate the association between PDGFRA expression levels in oral mucosa. We then performed smoking stratification in each cohort. Independent t test analysis was applied for case‐control comparisons.

Results

Mean value of PDGFRA mRNA level (−ΔCt) for normal cohort is −30.242, whereas mean value of PDGFRA mRNA level for patients with OSCC is −11.516. PDGFRA mRNA level (−ΔCt) was significantly higher in oral cancer cohort, P<.001. Smokers have a significantly higher PDGFRA mRNA expression in comparison with non‐smokers (P=.002) among the non‐cancer group. Likewise, this trend is observed in cancer cohort too, P=.044.

Conclusion

PDGFRA expression is significantly higher in oral cancer cohort with or without the establishment of tobacco risk factor.
The EP4 antagonist, L‐161,982, induces apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, and inhibits prostaglandin E2‐induced proliferation in oral squamous carcinoma Tca8113 cells
Authors: Li Xiaohui , Yang Bo , Han Guoxu , Li Weizhong
Published: March 2017

Background

Recent studies suggest that cyclooxygenase 2 (COX‐2) inhibitors may enhance the toxic effects of anticancer drugs on tumor cells, including oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), but its long‐term use can cause side effects such as stomach ulcers and myocardial infarction. Our aim was to investigate proliferative effects of a downstream product of COX‐2, prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), in human oral squamous carcinoma cell line Tca8113 and explore the effects of PGE2 receptors, especially EP4 receptor, on the growth of Tca8113 cells.

Methods

To evaluate the effects of PGE2 and EP receptors on Tca8113 cells, CCK8 assay, Western blotting, cell cycle analysis, and apoptosis assay were performed.

Results

We found that the EP4 receptor agonist, PGE1‐OH, could mimick PGE2 rescued the inhibitory effect of celecoxib and induced cell growth via ERK phosphorylation, and the EP4 receptor antagonist, L‐161,982, completely blocked PGE2‐stimulated ERK phosphorylation and proliferation of Tca8113 cells. Furthermore, L‐161,982 may induce apoptosis and block cell cycle progression at s phase by upregulating Bax and p21 protein levels and by downregulating Bcl‐2, CDK2, and cyclin A2 protein levels.

Conclusions

Our results indicate that EP4 receptor mediates PGE2‐induced cell proliferation through ERK signaling, and inhibition of EP4 receptor may represent an alternative therapeutic strategy for the prevention and treatment of OSCC.
“Pretty Pressure” From Peers, Parents, and the Media: A Longitudinal Study of Appearance‐Based Rejection Sensitivity
Authors: Webb Haley J. , Zimmer‐Gembeck Melanie J. , Waters Allison M. , Farrell Lara J. , Nesdale Drew , Downey Geraldine
Published: March 2017

Drawing from the tripartite sociocultural model of body image, the researchers examined whether direct messages and modeling from peers, parents, and media were concurrently and prospectively associated with appearance‐based rejection sensitivity (appearance‐RS) in young adolescents (Mage = 12.0 years). Appearance‐RS was higher among those who concurrently reported more appearance‐related teasing and pressure by peers, more parent teasing, and greater acceptance of media appearance ideals. In prospective analyses, greater increases in appearance‐RS over 1 year were found for adolescents who perceived higher levels of parental appearance‐related teasing and negative attitudes about their own appearance. Moderation analyses indicated the positive prospective association between parental negative appearance attitudes and appearance‐RS was found in younger but not older participants. Gender did not moderate associations.
Expanded Medicaid dental coverage under the Affordable Care Act: an analysis of Minnesota emergency department visits
Authors: Laniado Nadia , Badner Victor M. , Silver Ellen Johnson
Published: March 2017

Objectives

Hospital emergency departments (EDs) function as the safety net for patients with non‐traumatic dental conditions (NTDCs). With the implementation of Medicaid expansion under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) many adults became eligible for dental benefits. We examined the impact of “early” Medicaid expansion in Minnesota on ED visits for NTDCs from 2008 (prereform) to 2014 (postreform).

Methods

Data from the State Emergency Department Databases for Minnesota were analyzed for 2 years: 2008 and 2014. All individuals who presented to the ED with a dental problem were identified based on the International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification with a primary diagnosis of 520.0‐529.9. Demographic variables including patient age, gender, and primary payer were examined.

Results

Between 2008 and 2014 there was a 18.8 percent increase in the number of all non‐dental ED visits and a 9.7 percent decrease in the number of NTDC visits. In that time period, young adults 18‐26 years old showed a significant decrease (19.3 percent, P < 0.001) in the number of NTDC visits.

Conclusions

The Minnesota experience suggests that the increase in Medicaid dental benefits through the ACA has significantly decreased NTDC visits, especially among young adults who were eligible for a dependent coverage policy that extends parents' health insurance to age 26. To our knowledge, no previous study has reported on the impact of early Medicaid expansion on the rate of ED use for NTDCs.
The Effects of Social Status and Culture on Delay Discounting
Authors: Ishii Keiko , Eisen Charis , Hitokoto Hidefumi
Published: March 2017

People generally tend to discount future outcomes in favor of smaller but immediate gains (i.e., delay discounting). This study examines the hypothesis that culture and social status moderate this tendency, as well as the alternative hypothesis that social status and culture influence delay discounting independently of each other. American and Japanese adults were asked to choose receiving hypothetical monetary rewards either immediately or receiving rewards of different amounts with a delay of 1 year. The results replicated previous findings and supported the alternative hypothesis. Delay discounting was lower when subjective socioeconomic status (i.e., an individual’s perception of her or his social rank) was higher. Also, the Japanese were less likely to discount future rewards than the Americans. However, there was no interaction between social status and culture in influencing the rates of delay discounting.
Overt and occult hepatitis B virus infection among community children in Northwest China
Authors: Su H. , Shao Z. , Pu Z. , Wang Y. , Zhang L. , Zhang W. , Wang B. , Wang A. , Ji Z. , Yan Y. , Zhang Y.
Published: March 2017

Although a universal newborn hepatitis B (HB) immunization programme has been implemented in China, hepatitis B virus (HBV) breakthrough infection, including HB surface antigen (HBsAg)‐positive infection and occult HBV infection (OBI), still occurs during infancy or childhood. Obtaining the actual prevalence of HBV infection in general children is important for preventing and controlling the spread of HB. Accordingly, we investigated the prevalence of overt infection and OBI in community children and compared the serological and virological characteristics of OBI and HBsAg carrier children to clarify the mechanisms related to OBI.

In total, 6 706 community children <12 years of age were included from a population‐based HBV seroepidemiological investigation in Northwest China. The HBsAg carrier rate in community children was 1.60% (107/6706), and the anti‐HBs positive rate was 57.35% (3846/6706). Additionally, 1192 HBsAg‐negative children were examined for OBI using nested PCR. The prevalence of OBI in local children was 1.26% (15/1192), and the predominant OBI genotypes were C and D. The 15 OBI children and 29 HBsAg‐positive children from the same population did not have a statistical significant difference in age, gender, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), proportion of anti‐HBs or anti‐HBc, viral genotypes or mutations. Children with chronic overt infection had higher viral loads than OBI children (P=.004). These results suggested that HBV overt and occult infection of children was more serious in underdeveloped north‐west regions. HBV neonatal immunization and catch‐up programmes should be strengthened and supplemented. None of specific viral mutations or genotypes related to OBI were found. OBI may be a specific stage of HBV infection.
Plankton carbon metabolism and air–water CO2 fluxes at a hypereutrophic tropical estuary
Authors: Guenther Mariana , Araújo Moacyr , Noriega Carlos , Flores‐Montes Manuel , Gonzalez‐Rodriguez Eliane , Neumann‐Leitão Sigrid
Published: March 2017

Multiple biotic and abiotic drivers regulate the balance between CO2 assimilation and release in surface waters. In the present study, we compared in situ measurements of plankton carbon metabolism (primary production and respiration) to calculated air–water CO2 fluxes (based on abiotic parameters) during 1 year (2008) in a hypereutrophic tropical estuary (Recife Harbor, NE Brazil – 08°03′S, 34°52′W) to test the hypothesis that high productivity leads to a net CO2 flux from the atmosphere. The calculated CO2 fluxes through the air–water interface (FCO2) were negative throughout the year (FCO2: –2 to –9 mmol C·m−2·day−1), indicating that Recife Harbor is an atmospheric CO2 sink. Respiration rates of the plankton community ranged from 2 to 45 mmol C·m−2·hr−1. Gross primary production ranged from 0.2 to 281 mmol C·m−2·hr−1, exceeding respiration during most of the year (net autotrophy), except for the end of the wet season, when the water column was net heterotrophic. The present results highlight the importance of including eutrophic tropical shallow estuaries in global air–water CO2 flux studies, in order to better understand their role as a sink of atmospheric CO2.
The diverse family of MmpL transporters in mycobacteria: from regulation to antimicrobial developments
Authors: Viljoen Albertus , Dubois Violaine , Girard‐Misguich Fabienne , Blaise Mickaël , Herrmann Jean‐Louis , Kremer Laurent
Published: March 2017

Mycobacterial genomes contain large sets of loci encoding membrane proteins that belong to a family of multidrug resistance pumps designated Resistance‐Nodulation‐Cell Division (RND) permeases. Mycobacterial membrane protein Large (MmpL) transporters represent a subclass of RND transporters known to participate in the export of lipid components across the cell envelope. These surface‐exposed lipids with unusual structures play key roles in the physiology of mycobacteria and/or can act as virulence factors and immunomodulators. Defining the substrate specificity of MmpLs and their mechanisms of regulation helps understanding how mycobacteria elaborate their complex cell wall. This review describes the diversity of MmpL proteins in mycobacteria, emphasising their high abundance in a few opportunistic rapid‐growing mycobacteria. It reports the conservation of mmpL loci between Mycobacterium tuberculosis and non‐tuberculous mycobacteria, useful in predicting the role of MmpLs with unknown functions. Paradoxically, whereas MmpLs participate in drug resistance mechanisms, they represent also attractive pharmacological targets, opening the way for exciting translational applications. The most recent advances regarding structural/functional information are also provided to explain the molecular basis underlying the proton‐motive force driven lipid transport. Overall, this review emphasises the Janus‐face nature of MmpLs at the crossroads between antibiotic resistance mechanisms and exquisite vulnerability to drugs.
Sofosbuvir‐based treatment is safe and effective in Indian hepatitis C patients on maintenance haemodialysis: A retrospective study
Authors: Akhil Mohammed Shujauddin , Kirushnan Balaji , Martin Melvin , Arumugam Kanakaraj , Ganesh Prasad NK , Ravichandran Rajan
Published: March 2017

Aim

This study evaluates the safety and efficacy of direct‐acting antivirals (DAAs) including sofosbuvir, ledipasvir and daclatasvir in patients with hepatitis C viraemia who were on maintenance haemodialysis.

Methods

Data on patients who received sofosbuvir and ribavirin were analysed. Patients who experienced treatment failure with the above regimen received sofosbuvir and ledipasvir for infection with hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotype 1. Those having HCV genotype 3 infection received sofosbuvir and daclatasvir. All treatment regimens were of 12 weeks duration. Side‐effects were investigated. The HCV viral load was determined by RT‐PCR at 4,16 and 24 weeks after the initiation of therapy; haemoglobin levels and liver function tests were monitored at regular intervals during therapy.

Results

Of the 22 subjects initially treated with sofosbuvir and ribavirin, 72.72% attained sustained virologic response at 12 weeks (SVR12). Four patients experienced treatment failure and received genotype specific therapy. Patients with HCV genotype one received sofosbuvir with ledipasvir. One patient with HCV genotype 3 infection received sofosbuvir and daclatasvir. All of them attained SVR12. A statistically significant reduction in the median serum glutamic‐oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT) and Serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase (SGPT) were observed from the baseline until the end of treatment. Anaemia was observed in 45% of patients receiving ribavirin.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrates that sofosbuvir‐based therapy is efficacious for HCV viraemia in patients on maintenance haemodialysis. The therapy was found to be reasonably safe with no major adverse effects noted with the use of sofosbuvir, ledipasvir or daclatasvir. However, larger studies are needed to validate our results.
Eosinophilic esophagitis phenotypes: Ready for prime time?
Authors: Atkins Dan , Furuta Glenn T. , Liacouras Chris A. , Spergel Jonathan M.
Published: March 2017

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is one of the most common causes of reflux‐like symptoms and feeding problems in children and food impaction and dysphagia in adults with a prevalence of 1:2500. Therapeutic options include diet, use of swallowed corticosteroids, or dilation. In the last several years, recent clinical and translational researches have identified some common and distinctive features, for example, the varying response to diet and medications. As EoE shares some characteristics with both asthma and inflammatory bowel disease, the advances in these fields suggest that various phenotypes may also exist in patients with EoE. Here, we provide a rationale for EoE phenotypes and provide some suggestions for potential phenotypes based on histology, molecular signature, response to therapy or dietary therapy.
Embodied Agency
Authors: Wong Hong Yu
Published: March 2017

Is bodily awareness a condition on bodily action? I approach this question by weaving an argument based on considerations from action theory, the phenomenology of embodied agency, and from the psychology and neuroscience of action. In this paper, I discuss two accounts on which bodily awareness is a condition on bodily action. The first is an influential philosophical account from O'Shaughnessy, which claims that bodily awareness is necessary for the online control of bodily action. I argue that there are empirical counterexamples to O'Shaughnessy's account. Instead I propose an account on which the capacity for bodily awareness is a condition on our capacity for ordinary bodily action. This alternative account does justice to the causal and functional character of ordinary bodily action as well as its phenomenology. It is also consistent with the psychology and neuroscience of action. I provide a two‐stage argument for my view. The first stage shows that a sense of the spatial possibilities of one's body is a condition on intentionally acting with one's body. The second stage demonstrates that bodily awareness is a condition on a normal afferented agent's sense of the actions open to him through examining the role of bodily awareness in motor imagery and the role of motor imagery in preparatory processes for everyday actions.
How Physicalists Can—and Cannot—Explain the Seeming “Absurdity” of Physicalism
Authors: Sundström Pär
Published: March 2017

According to a widely held physicalist view, consciousness is identical with some physical or functional phenomenon just as liquidity is identical with loose molecular connection. To many of us, this claim about consciousness seems more problematic than the claim about liquidity. To many—including many physicalists—the identification of consciousness with some physical phenomenon even seems “absurd” (Papineau 2002) or “crazy” (Perry 2001). A full defence of physicalism should explain why the allegedly correct hypothesis comes across this way. If physicalism is true and we have reason to accept it, why does it seem “absurd”? One possibility is that this is fully explained by the fact that we have an erroneous understanding of consciousness or its physical basis. This explanation is embraced by few if any physicalists. It is rejected by many, including proponents of the “phenomenal concept strategy”, which lately has become the dominant strategy for defending physicalism. But the “error explanation” is clearly the most plausible explanation that is available to physicalists. So this paper argues.
Australian and New Zealand Pulmonary Rehabilitation Guidelines
Authors: Alison Jennifer A. , McKeough Zoe J. , Johnston Kylie , McNamara Renae J. , Spencer Lissa M. , Jenkins Sue C. , Hill Catherine J. , McDonald Vanessa M. , Frith Peter , Cafarella Paul , Brooke Michelle , Cameron‐Tucker Helen L. , Candy Sarah , Cecins Nola , Chan Andrew S.L. , Dale Marita T. , Dowman Leona M. , Granger Catherine , Halloran Simon , Jung Peter , Lee Annemarie L. , Leung Regina , Matulick Tamara , Osadnik Christian , Roberts Mary , Walsh James , Wootton Sally , Holland Anne E. ,   on behalf of the Lung Foundation Australia and the Thoracic Society of Australia and New Zealand
Published: March 2017

ABSTRACT

Background and objective

The aim of the Pulmonary Rehabilitation Guidelines (Guidelines) is to provide evidence‐based recommendations for the practice of pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) specific to Australian and New Zealand healthcare contexts.

Methods

The Guideline methodology adhered to the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation (AGREE) II criteria. Nine key questions were constructed in accordance with the PICO (Population, Intervention, Comparator, Outcome) format and reviewed by a COPD consumer group for appropriateness. Systematic reviews were undertaken for each question and recommendations made with the strength of each recommendation based on the GRADE (Gradings of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation) criteria. The Guidelines were externally reviewed by a panel of experts.

Results

The Guideline panel recommended that patients with mild‐to‐severe COPD should undergo PR to improve quality of life and exercise capacity and to reduce hospital admissions; that PR could be offered in hospital gyms, community centres or at home and could be provided irrespective of the availability of a structured education programme; that PR should be offered to patients with bronchiectasis, interstitial lung disease and pulmonary hypertension, with the latter in specialized centres. The Guideline panel was unable to make recommendations relating to PR programme length beyond 8 weeks, the optimal model for maintenance after PR, or the use of supplemental oxygen during exercise training. The strength of each recommendation and the quality of the evidence are presented in the summary.

Conclusion

The Australian and New Zealand Pulmonary Rehabilitation Guidelines present an evaluation of the evidence for nine PICO questions, with recommendations to provide guidance for clinicians and policymakers.
The role of acute and chronic respiratory colonization and infections in the pathogenesis of COPD
Authors: Leung Janice M. , Tiew Pei Yee , Mac Aogáin Micheál , Budden Kurtis F. , Yong Valerie Fei Lee , Thomas Sangeeta S. , Pethe Kevin , Hansbro Philip M. , Chotirmall Sanjay H.
Published: March 2017

COPD is a major global concern, increasingly so in the context of ageing populations. The role of infections in disease pathogenesis and progression is known to be important, yet the mechanisms involved remain to be fully elucidated. While COPD pathogens such as Haemophilus influenzae, Moraxella catarrhalis and Streptococcus pneumoniae are strongly associated with acute exacerbations of COPD (AECOPD), the clinical relevance of these pathogens in stable COPD patients remains unclear. Immune responses in stable and colonized COPD patients are comparable to those detected in AECOPD, supporting a role for chronic colonization in COPD pathogenesis through perpetuation of deleterious immune responses. Advances in molecular diagnostics and metagenomics now allow the assessment of microbe–COPD interactions with unprecedented personalization and precision, revealing changes in microbiota associated with the COPD disease state. As microbial changes associated with AECOPD, disease severity and therapeutic intervention become apparent, a renewed focus has been placed on the microbiology of COPD and the characterization of the lung microbiome in both its acute and chronic states. Characterization of bacterial, viral and fungal microbiota as part of the lung microbiome has the potential to reveal previously unrecognized prognostic markers of COPD that predict disease outcome or infection susceptibility. Addressing such knowledge gaps will ultimately lead to a more complete understanding of the microbe–host interplay in COPD. This will permit clearer distinctions between acute and chronic infections and more granular patient stratification that will enable better management of these features and of COPD.
Contextualizing Police Use of Force and Black Vulnerability: A Response to Whitesel
Authors: Hitchens Brooklynn K.
Published: March 2017

Whitesel () argues that racialized stereotypes about black bodies were used as foundations for the killing and subsequent character assassinations of Eleanor Bumpurs and Eric Garner. In response to Whitesel, I offer several points to expand on the arguments raised, as well as some critiques that should enhance future research on policing and state‐sanctioned violence.
Superficial herpes simplex virus wound infection following lung transplantation
Authors: Karolak Wojtek , Wojarski Jacek , Zegleń Sławomir , Ochman Marek , Urlik Maciej , Hudzik Bartosz , Wozniak‐Grygiel Elzbieta , Maruszewski Marcin
Published: March 2017

Surgical site infections (SSIs) are infections of tissues, organs, or spaces exposed by surgeons during performance of an invasive procedure. SSIs are classified into superficial, which are limited to skin and subcutaneous tissues, and deep. The incidence of deep SSIs in lung transplant (LTx) patients is estimated at 5%. No reports have been published as to the incidence of superficial SSIs specifically in LTx patients. Common sense would dictate that the majority of superficial SSIs would be bacterial. Uncommonly, fungal SSIs may occur, and we believe that no reports exist as to the incidence of viral wound infections in LTx patients, or in any solid organ transplant patients. We report a de novo superficial wound infection with herpes simplex virus following lung transplantation, its possible source, treatment, and resolution.
More bark than bite: Comparative studies are needed to determine the importance of canine zoonoses in Aboriginal communities. A critical review of published research
Authors: Smout F. , Schrieber L. , Speare R. , Skerratt L. F.
Published: March 2017

The objective of this review was to identify and critique over forty years of peer‐reviewed literature concerned with the transmission of canine zoonoses to Aboriginal people and determine the zoonotic organisms documented in dogs in Australian Aboriginal communities. A systematic literature search of public health, medical and veterinary databases identified 19 articles suitable for critical appraisal. Thirteen articles documented the occurrence of recognized zoonotic organisms in dogs in Aboriginal communities, includingToxocara canis,Dirofilaria immitis,Streptococcus dysgalactiae,Rickettsia felis,Sarcoptes scabieiandGiardia. Currently, there is definitive evidence indicating that dogs act as a reservoir for human scabies in Aboriginal communities. However, there is a need for large‐scale, high‐quality, comparative studies of dogs and humans from the same household to assess the occurrence and importance of transmission ofS. scabieiand other diseases between dogs and humans. These studies should use current genetic and molecular techniques along with traditional techniques to identify and type organisms in order to better understand their epidemiology. This review has revealed that there is a lack of high‐quality comparative studies to determine whether dogs are contributing to human disease by transmitting zoonoses. Our recommendations differ significantly from current public health policy and may have substantial implications for human and dog health.
The importance of fluvial habitats for amphibian conservation in the Mediterranean climate
Authors: De Vries Wouter , Marco Adolfo
Published: March 2017

The importance of standing water habitat for amphibians is widely known and recognized. However, in some arid or semiarid zones the availability of these temporal habitats is uncertain and fluvial habitats could play a very important role for amphibian conservation. For example, in the Mediterranean region many fluvial habitats have a temporary character, lacking predatory fish populations and hosting diverse amphibian communities. To compare the relative importance of various fluvial and still water habitats, we studied the breeding amphibian community over a wide area from 2006 to 2008 in southwestern Spain. All amphibian species found in the area were present in lotic habitats and the highest amphibian diversity was found in temporary stream habitats. Fluvial habitats were among the most important habitats used for reproduction by eight amphibian species of conservation concern, whereas for seven species a significant positive selection was found towards one or several fluvial habitat types as reproduction habitats. The conservation of fluvial habitats including rigorous impact assessments and management programs can be very important for the conservation of endangered amphibians in these semi-arid areas.
A novel artificial condensed matter lattice and a new platform for one-dimensional topological phases
Authors: Belopolski Ilya , Xu Su-Yang , Koirala Nikesh , Liu Chang , Bian Guang , Strocov Vladimir N. , Chang Guoqing , Neupane Madhab , Alidoust Nasser , Sanchez Daniel , Zheng Hao , Brahlek Matthew , Rogalev Victor , Kim Timur , Plumb Nicholas C. , Chen Chaoyu , Bertran François , Le Fèvre Patrick , Taleb-Ibrahimi Amina , Asensio Maria-Carmen , Shi Ming , Lin Hsin , Hoesch Moritz , Oh Seongshik , Hasan M. Zahid
Published: March 2017

Topologically protected electron states arranged artificially in real space form a highly tunable emergent atomic chain.
Biophysical assay for tethered signaling reactions reveals tether-controlled activity for the phosphatase SHP-1
Authors: Goyette Jesse , Salas Citlali Solis , Coker-Gordon Nicola , Bridge Marcus , Isaacson Samuel A. , Allard Jun , Dushek Omer
Published: March 2017

Tethering of the cytoplasmic tyrosine phosphatase SHP-1 to clustered receptors increases its activity 900-fold.
Room temperature multiplexed gas sensing using chemical-sensitive 3.5-nm-thin silicon transistors
Authors: Fahad Hossain Mohammad , Shiraki Hiroshi , Amani Matin , Zhang Chuchu , Hebbar Vivek Srinivas , Gao Wei , Ota Hiroki , Hettick Mark , Kiriya Daisuke , Chen Yu-Ze , Chueh Yu-Lun , Javey Ali
Published: March 2017

Multigas sensors on a chip with chemical-sensitive nanoscale silicon transistors.
Experimental verification of an indefinite causal order
Authors: Rubino Giulia , Rozema Lee A. , Feix Adrien , Araújo Mateus , Zeuner Jonas M. , Procopio Lorenzo M. , Brukner Časlav , Walther Philip
Published: March 2017

Researchers report on the observation and characterization of a quantum process that lacks a predefined causal order.
Host sirtuin 1 regulates mycobacterial immunopathogenesis and represents a therapeutic target against tuberculosis
Authors: Cheng Catherine Y. , Gutierrez Nuria M. , Marzuki Mardiana B. , Lu Xiaohua , Foreman Taylor W. , Paleja Bhairav , Lee Bernett , Balachander Akhila , Chen Jinmiao , Tsenova Liana , Kurepina Natalia , Teng Karen W. W. , West Kim , Mehra Smriti , Zolezzi Francesca , Poidinger Michael , Kreiswirth Barry , Kaushal Deepak , Kornfeld Hardy , Newell Evan W. , Singhal Amit
Published: March 2017

Sirtuin 1 activation decreases lung pathology, reduces inflammation, and enhances drug efficacy against
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
.
Interbacterial Adhesion Networks within Early Oral Biofilms of Single Human Hosts
Authors: Palmer Robert J. , Shah Nehal , Valm Alex , Paster Bruce , Dewhirst Floyd , Inui Taichi , Cisar John O.
Published: March 2017

Specific interbacterial adhesion, termed coaggregation, is well established for three early colonizers of the plaque biofilm: streptococci, actinomyces, and veillonellae. However, little is known about interactions of other early colonizers and about the extent of interactions within the bacterial community from a single host. To address these gaps, subject-specific culture collections from two individuals were established using an intraoral biofilm retrieval device. Molecular taxonomy (Human Oral Microbe Identification Microarray [HOMIM]) analysis of biofilm samples confirmed the integrity and completeness of the collections. HOMIM analysis verified the isolation ofStreptococcus gordoniiandS. anginosusfrom only one subject, as well as isolation of a previously uncultivated streptococcal phylotype from the other subject. Strains representative of clonal diversity within each collection were further characterized. Greater than 70% of these streptococcal strains from each subject coaggregated with at least one other coisolate. One-third of the strains carry a known coaggregation mediator: receptor polysaccharide (RPS). Almost all nonstreptococcal isolates coaggregated with other coisolates. Importantly, certainRothiastrains demonstrated more coaggregations with their coisolated bacteria than did anyStreptococcusorActinomycesstrain, and certainHaemophilusisolates participated in twice as many. Confocal microscopy of undisturbed biofilms showed thatRothiaandHaemophiluseach occur in small multispecies microcolonies. However, in confluent high-biomass regions,Rothiaoccurred in islands whereasHaemophiluswas distributed throughout. Together, the data demonstrate that coaggregation networks within an individual's oral microflora are extensive and thatRothiaandHaemophiluscan be important initiators of cell-cell interactions in the early biofilm.

IMPORTANCEExtensive involvement of specific interbacterial adhesion in dental plaque biofilm formation has been postulated based onin vitrocoaggregation between oral bacteria from culture collections that are not subject specific. In the present study, subject-specific culture collections were obtained from early plaque biofilm of two volunteers, and coaggregations within each culture collection were assayed. Coaggregations, several of which involved a coaggregation-mediating cell surface molecule known from well-studied streptococci, were widespread. Unexpectedly, the little-studied organismsHaemophilusandRothiaparticipated in the greatest numbers of interactions with community members; these two organisms showed different distributions within the undisturbed biofilm. The data show that coaggregation networks encompass most organisms within the biofilm community of each individual, and they indicate prominent participation of organisms such asHaemophilusandRothiain early plaque biofilm formation.
Industrial Relevance of Chromosomal Copy Number Variation in Saccharomyces Yeasts
Authors: Gorter de Vries Arthur R. , Pronk Jack T. , Daran Jean-Marc G.
Published: March 2017

Chromosomal copy number variation (CCNV) plays a key role in evolution and health of eukaryotes. The unicellular yeast
Saccharomyces cerevisiae
is an important model for studying the generation, physiological impact, and evolutionary significance of CCNV. Fundamental studies of this yeast have contributed to an extensive set of methods for analyzing and introducing CCNV. Moreover, these studies provided insight into the balance between negative and positive impacts of CCNV in evolutionary contexts. A growing body of evidence indicates that CCNV not only frequently occurs in industrial strains of
Saccharomyces
yeasts but also is a key contributor to the diversity of industrially relevant traits. This notion is further supported by the frequent involvement of CCNV in industrially relevant traits acquired during evolutionary engineering. This review describes recent developments in genome sequencing and genome editing techniques and discusses how these offer opportunities to unravel contributions of CCNV in industrial
Saccharomyce
s strains as well as to rationally engineer yeast chromosomal copy numbers and karyotypes.
Gastric outlet obstruction: an unusual case of primary duodenal tuberculosis
Authors: Kalpande Sanket , Pandya Jayashri Sanjay , Tiwari Ajeet , Adhikari Devbrata
Published: March 2017

Background:

Tuberculosis is a major health problem worldwide. Gastrointestinal tuberculosis presenting as isolated involvement of the duodenum is a rare case.

Case Presentation:

A 13 year male, presented with features of gastric outlet obstruction. CT enterography scan showed circumferential mural thickening in first and second part of duodenal junction causing luminal narrowing. Upper GI endoscopy confirmed the narrowing of D1-D2 junction. Duodenal biopsy showed duodenitis with negative result for AFB stain,Helicobacter Pylori. Patient underwent roux-en-y gastro-jejunostomy. Histo-pathological findings were consistent with tuberculosis. Patient was started on AKT and discharged. At 3 months follow up; patient asymptomatic.

Conclusion:

The unusual location of gastrointestinal tuberculosis, lack of specific signs and symptoms, radiological studies and endoscopy findings makes diagnosis a challenge. The treatment of duodenal tuberculosis is still medical and surgery should be reserved for emergency like gastric outlet obstruction causing nutritional compromise.
Silent uterine rupture in scarred uterus
Authors: Langhe Ream , Shah Umme Farwa , Alfathil Attia , Gannon Michael
Published: March 2017

Uterine rupture in pregnancy is a rare and catastrophic complication with a high incidence of fetal and maternal morbidity. Very few cases have been reported in the literature.

Case presentation

A 28-year-old fifth gravid woman with a history of one caesarean section presented to our department at 39 weeks and 6 days gestation with complaints of headache, epigastric pain and nausea. Her blood pressure was elevated and there was proteinuria. Emergency caesarean section was performed in view of symptoms. Uterine rupture was found during the surgery. A live male infant was delivered in good condition. Postnatal recovery was unremarkable and the woman discharged on postoperative day 5.

Conclusion

Rupture of the uterus can present in third trimester even before labour with minimal or no symptoms.
More than just muscle spasms: a rare presentation of aortic dissection
Authors: Bekele Ebisa , Kagolanu Deepthi Chaitanya , Kim Martin , Stephenson Kent
Published: March 2017

Acute aortic dissection is associated with significant morbidity and mortality, often from complications including aortic regurgitation, cardiac tamponade and myocardial infarction. Typical clinical presentation includes a sudden onset of severe chest pain, although this is not always consistent. Clinical signs and symptoms are diverse with an estimated 38% of cases being missed on initial evaluation. Primary neurological symptoms at presentation are rare but have been reported often to coexist with chest pain. We present a case of acute aortic dissection in which the initial presenting symptoms were predominantly neurological. Stanford type A dissection is a surgical emergency with a high burden of cardiovascular death; thus, aggressive identification and management is paramount. Our case re-emphasises the importance of having a higher index of suspicion and a keen clinical eye for atypical presentations of acute aortic dissection.
Ectopic ACTH-producing large cell neuroendocrine Pancoast tumour presenting as Horner syndrome
Authors: Verma Rajanshu , Lambert Alexandra , Katz Harold H , Benson Scott J
Published: March 2017

We present an interesting case where a patient is presented with a droopy left eyelid (as part of Horner syndrome) and Cushingoid features which were a result of a Pancoast tumour (apical lung tumour in superior pulmonary sulcus) involving the left lung. This tumour was secreting ectopic adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), a paraneoplastic endocrine phenomenon, which resulted in Cushing syndrome symptomatology. Though most ectopic ACTH-producing lung cancers are either small cell or carcinoid tumours, this was in fact a large cell neuroendocrine cancer (LCNEC). Patient underwent surgical resection and adjuvant/neoadjuvant chemotherapy with radiation; however, he succumbed to LCNEC given aggressive nature of the disease.
Fulminant invasive meningococcal disease due to serogroup Y infection: a highly unusual case reflecting worrying increases in carriage and incidence
Authors: Maniam Akash , Ravichandran Sriram
Published: March 2017

A young man presented to accident and emergency with a short history of diarrhoea and vomiting, with no medical history. He deteriorated rapidly during triage and never regained consciousness. He was pronounced dead after hours of attempted resuscitation. He was found to have organisms suggestive of diplococci on his blood film and subsequently had MenY found via PCR testing. This case illustrates a highly unusual presentation of invasive meningococcal disease caused by MenY which is quietly and dangerously increasing in incidence in the UK, particularly in young healthy patients. All clinicians are reminded to be vigilant in order to diagnose and treat this often fatal disease as well as to promote uptake of the quadrivalent MenACWY vaccine.
Role of depression in diabetes management in an ethnic minority population: a case of Korean Americans with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Kim Miyong To , Kim Kim Byeng , Ko Jisook , Jang Yuri , Levine David , Lee Hochang Benjamin
Published: March 2017

Background

Comorbid depression and diabetes mellitus (DM) compound challenges to disease management such as low health literacy, insufficient access to care, and social or linguistic isolation. Korean Americans (KAs), predominantly first-generation immigrants, suffer from a high prevalence of type 2 DM and depression. Limited research on KAs has prevented the development of effective interventions.

Objectives

To compare the prevalence of depression in KAs with DM and all Americans with/without DM, and to explore correlates of comorbid DM and depression and strategies to address KAs' DM and depression.

Methods

KAs' data were from a clinical trial of a community-based self-help intervention to improve KAs' DM and mental health outcomes. National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data sets enabled comparison. Clinical indicators included hemoglobin A1C, lipid panel, and body mass index. Psychobehavioral indicators included self-efficacy for DM management, quality of life, and depression (Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9)).

Results

More KAs with DM had depression (44.2%) than did all Americans with DM (28.7%) or without DM (20.1%). Significantly more KAs with DM had mild (29.3%) or clinical (14.9%) depression than did Americans with DM (mild, 17.2%; clinical, 11.5%) or without (mild, 13.8%; clinical, 6.3%). One of six KAs with DM (16.9%) thought of suicide or self-harm (Americans with/without =5.0%, 2.8%). The self-help intervention reduced the mean PHQ-9 from 5.4 at baseline to 4.1 at 12 months.

Limitations

External validity might be limited; KAs' data were from one study site.

Conclusions

The prevalence of depression and DM among KAs warrants the development of efficacious interventions.

Trial registration number

NCT01264796.
Modelling the health and economic impacts of the elimination of river blindness (onchocerciasis) in Africa
Authors: Kim Young Eun , Stolk Wilma A , Tanner Marcel , Tediosi Fabrizio
Published: March 2017

Background

Onchocerciasis (river blindness) is endemic mostly in remote and rural areas in sub-Saharan Africa. The treatment goal for onchocerciasis has shifted from control to elimination in Africa. For investment decisions, national and global policymakers need evidence on benefits, costs and risks of elimination initiatives.

Methods

We estimated the health benefits using a dynamical transmission model, and the needs for health workforce and outpatient services for elimination strategies in comparison to a control mode. We then estimated the associated costs to both health systems and households and the potential economic impacts in terms of income gains.

Results

The elimination of onchocerciasis in Africa would avert 4.3 million–5.6 million disability-adjusted life years over 2013–2045 when compared with staying in the control mode, and also reduce the required number of community volunteers by 45–53% and community health workers by 56–60%. The elimination of onchocerciasis in Africa when compared with the control mode is predicted to save outpatient service costs by $37.2 million–$39.9 million and out-of-pocket payments by $25.5 million–$26.9 million over 2013–2045, and generate economic benefits up to $5.9 billion–$6.4 billion in terms of income gains.

Discussion

The elimination of onchocerciasis in Africa would lead to substantial health and economic benefits, reducing the needs for health workforce and outpatient services. To realise these benefits, the support and collaboration of community, national and global policymakers would be needed to sustain the elimination strategies.