bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biomechanical testing of the calcified metacarpal articular surface and its association with subchondral bone microstructure in Thoroughbred racehorses
Authors: Williamson A. J. , Sims N. A. , Thomas C. D. L. , Lee P. V. S. , Stevenson M. A. , Whitton R. C.
Published: August 2017

Background

Palmar/plantar osteochondral disease (POD) and third metacarpal/‐tarsal condylar fractures are considered fatigue injuries of subchondral bone (SCB) and calcified cartilage due to repetitive high loads in racehorses. In combination with adaptive changes in SCB in response to race training, the accumulation of SCB fatigue is likely to result in changes of joint surface mechanical properties.

Objectives

To determine the spatial relationship and correlation of calcified articular surface biomechanical properties with SCB microstructure and training history in the distal palmar metacarpal condyle of Thoroughbred racehorses.

Study design

Cross‐sectional study.

Methods

Third metacarpal condyles were examined from 31 Thoroughbred horses with micro‐computed tomography (microCT). Hyaline cartilage was removed and reference point indentation (RPI) mechanical testing of the calcified articular surface was performed. Training histories were obtained from trainers. The association among indentation distance increase (IDI, an inverse RPI measure of toughness), and microCT and training variables was assessed using a mixed‐effects generalised linear model.

Results

Untrained horses had higher IDI than horses that had commenced training (P<0.001). Death as a result of musculoskeletal bone fatigue injury (P = 0.044) and presence of POD (P = 0.05) were associated with higher IDI. The microCT variables connectivity density and trabecular pattern factor were positively (P = 0.002) and negatively (P<0.001) correlated with IDI respectively.

Main limitations

The application of RPI to the calcified articular surface is novel and there is a potential for measurement variability with surface unevenness.

Conclusion

Commencement of race training is associated with altered material properties of the calcified articular surface in horses. Reduced articular surface material properties can also be detected in horses that have fatigue injuries of the distal metacarpus and at other sites in the skeleton. Measures of SCB connectivity and trabecular surface shape may be more important determinants of resistance to failure of the calcified articular surface than traditional measures such as SCB volume and density.
Angiotensin‐converting enzyme 2–Angiotensin 1‐7/1‐9 system: novel promising targets for heart failure treatment
Authors: Kittana Naim
Published: August 2017

Cardiac remodeling (cardiac hypertrophy and fibrosis) is a hallmark of heart failure (HF). It can be induced by the abnormal elevation of several endogenous factors including angiotensin II (Ang II), which is generated from its precursor angiotensin I (Ang I) by the action of angiotensin‐converting enzyme. The inhibition of this enzyme or the blockade of the Ang II receptors demonstrated a high clinical value against the progression of HF. Ang I and Ang II may also be converted into angiotensin 1‐7 (Ang 1‐7) and angiotensin 1‐9 (Ang 1‐9), respectively, by the action of angiotensin‐converting enzyme 2. Both derivatives demonstrated a promising anticardiac remodeling activity especially against the detrimental effects of Ang II. This manuscript thoroughly reviews the available in vitro and in vivo data on Ang 1‐7 and Ang 1‐9 in the context of the treatment of HF and discusses the associated molecular mechanisms and the trials to clinically utilize Ang 1‐7 mimetics for the treatment of that disease.
Considering land–sea interactions and trade‐offs for food and biodiversity
Authors: Cottrell Richard S. , Fleming Aysha , Fulton Elizabeth A. , Nash Kirsty L. , Watson Reg A. , Blanchard Julia L.
Published: August 2017

With the human population expected to near 10 billion by 2050, and diets shifting towards greater per‐capita consumption of animal protein, meeting future food demands will place ever‐growing burdens on natural resources and those dependent on them. Solutions proposed to increase the sustainability of agriculture, aquaculture, and capture fisheries have typically approached development from single sector perspectives. Recent work highlights the importance of recognising links among food sectors, and the challenge cross‐sector dependencies create for sustainable food production. Yet without understanding the full suite of interactions between food systems on land and sea, development in one sector may result in unanticipated trade‐offs in another. We review the interactions between terrestrial and aquatic food systems. We show that most of the studied land–sea interactions fall into at least one of four categories: ecosystem connectivity, feed interdependencies, livelihood interactions, and climate feedback. Critically, these interactions modify nutrient flows, and the partitioning of natural resource use between land and sea, amid a backdrop of climate variability and change that reaches across all sectors. Addressing counter‐productive trade‐offs resulting from land‐sea links will require simultaneous improvements in food production and consumption efficiency, while creating more sustainable feed products for fish and livestock. Food security research and policy also needs to better integrate aquatic and terrestrial production to anticipate how cross‐sector interactions could transmit change across ecosystem and governance boundaries into the future.
How do social practices shape policy? Analysing the field of ‘migration as adaptation’ with Bourdieu's ‘Theory of Practice’
Authors: Ober Kayly , Sakdapolrak Patrick
Published: August 2017

In recent decades, there has been a shift in the climate‐migration discourse: from one preoccupied with ‘climate refugees’ to one of ‘migration as adaptation’. Academics and policy‐makers alike see migration as a way to generate income, diversify livelihoods, and spread risk in the face of climate change. Past literature has found that policy prescriptions at this nexus may play into existing politics and framings, especially in the struggle for funding or in the age of the ever‐present neoliberal agenda. This paper makes the case that perhaps the machinations behind policy recommendations need not appear to be sinister. While higher‐level structural considerations should be taken into account and doubtless undergird the trajectory of policy‐making, organisations often follow existing pathways neither because of empirical evidence nor with malicious intent, but rather because it is part and parcel of existing practices of positioning themselves within the system and playing the rules of the game. In fact, every‐day and seemingly mundane practices can accumulate and ‘hang together’ to shape and determine policy outcomes. This happens in a variety of ways in the field of ‘migration as adaptation’, but in its most explicit form can be unveiled in the organisational practices of writing publications and participating in conferences and working groups, for example. By using a practice‐oriented approach, with Bourdieu's ‘Theory of Practice’ as a guide, this paper provides an understanding of the logic and practices of the migration‐as‐adaptation policy sphere and the limited policy prescriptions related to it as well as suggests sites at which to target interventions for more radical policy imaginings.
Human leucocyte antigens class II allele and haplotype association with Type 1 Diabetes in Madeira Island (Portugal)
Authors: Spínola H. , Lemos A. , Couto A. R. , Parreira B. , Soares M. , Dutra I. , Bruges‐Armas J. , Brehm A. , Abreu S.
Published: August 2017

This study confirms for Madeira Island (Portugal) population the Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) susceptible and protective Human leucocyte antigens (HLA) markers previously reported in other populations and adds some local specificities. Among the strongest T1D HLA associations, stands out, as susceptible, the alleles DRB1*04:05 (OR = 7.3), DQB1*03:02 (OR = 6.1) and DQA1*03:03 (OR = 4.5), as well as the haplotypes DRB1*04:05‐DQA1*03:03‐DQB1*03:02 (OR = 100.9) and DRB1*04:04‐DQA1*03:01‐DQB1*03:02 (OR = 22.1), and DQB1*06:02 (OR = 0.07) and DRB1*15:01‐DQA1*01:02‐DQB1*06:02 (OR = 0.04) as protective. HLA‐DQA1 positive for Arginine at position 52 (Arg52) (OR = 15.2) and HLA‐DQB1 negative for Aspartic acid at the position 57 (Asp57) (OR = 9.0) alleles appear to be important genetic markers for T1D susceptibility, with higher odds ratio values than any single allele and than most of the haplotypes. Genotypes generated by the association of markers Arg52 DQA1 positive and Asp57 DQB1 negative increase T1D susceptibility much more than one would expected by a simple additive effect of those markers separately (OR = 26.9). This study also confirms an increased risk for DRB1*04/DRB1*03 heterozygote genotypes (OR = 16.8) and also a DRB1*04‐DQA1*03:01‐DQB1*03:02 haplotype susceptibility dependent on the DRB1*04 allele (DRB1*04:01, OR = 7.9; DRB1*04:02, OR = 3.2; DRB1*04:04, OR = 22.1).
An iterative time‐bucket refinement algorithm for a high‐resolution resource‐constrained project scheduling problem
Authors: Riedler Martin , Jatschka Thomas , Maschler Johannes , Raidl Günther R.
Published: August 2017

We consider a resource‐constrained project scheduling problem originating in particle therapy for cancer treatment, in which the scheduling has to be done in high resolution. Traditional mixed integer linear programming techniques such as time‐indexed formulations or discrete‐event formulations are known to have severe limitations in such cases, that is, growing too fast or having weak linear programming relaxations. We suggest a relaxation based on partitioning time into so‐called time‐buckets. This relaxation is iteratively solved and serves as basis for deriving feasible solutions using heuristics. Based on these primal and dual solutions and bounds, the time‐buckets are successively refined. Combining these parts, we obtain an algorithm that provides good approximate solutions soon and eventually converges to an optimal solution. Diverse strategies for performing the time‐bucket refinement are investigated. The approach shows excellent performance in comparison to the traditional formulations and a metaheuristic.
Bi2Ti2O7‐based pyrochlore nanoparticles and their superior photocatalytic activity under visible light
Authors: Benčina Metka , Valant Matjaz
Published: August 2017

Nanoparticles of Bi2Ti2O7 pyrochlore were synthesized by a coprecipitation method. They exhibit a high visible‐light photoactivity for decolorization of a methyl‐orange dye solution in the presence of a sacrificial agent, H2O2. The same pyrochlore system with an Ag co‐catalyst showed even faster kinetics under only visible light and an unprecedentedly high photoactivity in the UV range.
Pair distribution function analysis of nanostructural deformation of calcium silicate hydrate under compressive stress
Authors: Bae Sungchul , Jee Hyeonseok , Kanematsu Manabu , Shiro Ayumi , Machida Akihiko , Watanuki Tetsu , Shobu Takahisa , Suzuki Hiroshi
Published: August 2017

Despite enormous interest in calcium silicate hydrate (C–S–H), its detailed atomic structure and intrinsic deformation under an external load are lacking. This study demonstrates the nanostructural deformation process of C–S–H in tricalcium silicate (C3S) paste as a function of applied stress by interpreting atomic pair distribution function (PDF) based on in situ X‐ray scattering. Three different strains in C3S paste under compression were compared using a strain gauge, Bragg peak shift, and the real space PDF. PDF refinement revealed that the C–S–H phase mostly contributed to PDF from 0 to 20 Å whereas crystalline phases dominated that beyond 20 Å. The short‐range atomic strains exhibited two regions for C–S–H: I) plastic deformation (0‐10 MPa) and II) linear elastic deformation (>10 MPa), whereas the long‐range deformation beyond 20 Å was similar to that of Ca(OH)2. Below 10 MPa, the short‐range strain was caused by the densification of C–S–H induced by the removal of interlayer or gel‐pore water. The strain is likely to be recovered when the removed water returns to C–S–H.
Plasma parathyroid hormone and cardiovascular disease in treatment‐naive patients with primary hyperparathyroidism: The EPATH trial
Authors: Wetzel Julia , Pilz Stefan , Grübler Martin R. , Fahrleitner‐Pammer Astrid , Dimai Hans P. , von Lewinski Dirk , Kolesnik Ewald , Perl Sabine , Trummer Christian , Schwetz Verena , Meinitzer Andreas , Belyavskiy Evgeny , Völkl Jakob , Catena Cristiana , Brandenburg Vincent , März Winfried , Pieske Burkert , Brussee Helmut , Tomaschitz Andreas , Verheyen Nicolas D.
Published: August 2017

Patients with primary hyperparathyroidism are at increased risk for high blood pressure, vascular stiffening, and left ventricular hypertrophy, but previous studies have failed to demonstrate the direct associations with circulating parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels. The authors investigated cross‐sectional relationships between PTH and 24‐hour pulse wave velocity, nocturnal systolic blood pressure, and left ventricular mass index in patients with primary hyperparathyroidism who were treatment‐naive with cinacalcet, renin‐angiotensin‐aldosterone‐system inhibitors, and thiazide or loop diuretics. In 76 patients, mean±SD of pulse wave velocity, nocturnal systolic blood pressure, and left ventricular mass index values were 9.3±1.8 m/s, 116.6±17.0 mm Hg, and 92.8±23.0 g/m². In multivariate linear regression analyses with adjustment for potentially confounding parameters, PTH was independently associated with nocturnal systolic blood pressure (adjusted ß coefficient=.284, P=.040), mean 24‐hour pulse wave velocity (ß=.199, P=.001), and left ventricular mass index (ß=.252, P=.025). PTH may promote vascular and cardiac remodeling in primary hyperparathyroidism. Interventional trials are needed to test the antihypertensive and cardioprotective effects of PTH‐inhibitory treatment strategies.
Thoracic Kyphosis and Physical Function: The Framingham Study
Authors: Lorbergs Amanda L. , Murabito Joanne M. , Jarraya Mohamed , Guermazi Ali , Allaire Brett T. , Yang Laiji , Kiel Douglas P. , Cupples L. Adrienne , Bouxsein Mary L. , Travison Thomas G. , Samelson Elizabeth J.
Published: August 2017

Objective

To evaluate the association between thoracic kyphosis and physical function.

Design

Prospective cohort.

Setting

Framingham, Massachusetts.

Participants

Framingham Heart Study Offspring and Third Generation cohort members who had computed tomography (CT) performed between 2002 and 2005 and physical function assessed a mean 3.4 years later (N = 1,100; mean age 61 ± 8, range 50–85).

Measurements

Thoracic kyphosis (Cobb angle, T4‐T12) was measured in degrees using supine CT scout images. Participants were categorized according to Cobb angle to compare those in the highest quartile (Q4, most‐severe kyphosis) with those in the lowest quartiles (Q1‐Q3). Quick walking speed (m/s), chair‐stand time (seconds), grip strength (kg), and self‐reported impairments were assessed using standardized procedures. Analyses were adjusted for age, height, weight, smoking, follow‐up time, vertebral fractures, and prevalent spinal degeneration.

Results

Thoracic kyphosis was not associated with physical function in women or men, and these results were consistent in those younger than 65 and those aged 65 and older. For example, walking speed was similar in adults younger than 65 with and without severe kyphosis (women, Q4: 1.38 m/s, Q1‐Q3: 1.40 m/s, P = .69; men, Q4: 1.65 m/s, Q1‐Q3: 1.60 m/s; P = .39).

Conclusion

In healthy relatively high‐functioning women and men, kyphosis severity was not associated with subsequent physical function. Individuals at risk of functional decline cannot be targeted based on supine CT thoracic curvature measures alone.
Investor legal protection, capitalized development costs, and audit fees: A cross‐country analysis
Authors: Kuo Nan‐Ting , Lee Cheng‐Few
Published: August 2017

Our study explores the association between capitalized development costs and audit fees. International Accounting Standard No. 38 stipulates the discretion to capitalize the development costs of internally generated intangible assets. We find a positive association between capitalized development costs and audit fees, which reflects auditors’ concern that managers may use the discretion of development cost capitalization to manipulate earnings. Moreover, this positive association is mitigated by stronger investor legal protection because stronger investor legal protection alleviates the earnings management concern from capitalized development costs. These results suggest that country‐level legal regimes affect auditors’ perception on client firms’ accounting choices. Our study contributes to the literature exploring how legal regimes affect auditor behaviors.
Mst‐1 deficiency promotes post‐traumatic spinal motor neuron survival via enhancement of autophagy flux
Authors: Zhang Mengting , Tao Wufan , Yuan Zengqiang , Liu Yaobo
Published: August 2017

The mammalian Ste20‐like kinase 1 (Mst‐1) is a serine‐threonine kinase and a component of the Hippo tumor suppressor pathway, which reacts to pathologically relevant stress and regulates cell death. However, little is known about its role in spinal cord injury. Here, we found that p‐Mst‐1, the activated form of Mst‐1, was induced in the post‐traumatic spinal motor neurons. In vivo evidence demonstrated that Mst‐1 deficiency promoted post‐traumatic spinal motor neuron survival, Basso mouse scale scores, and synapse survival. Moreover, we found that autophagosome formation and autolysosome degradation enhanced by Mst‐1 deficiency were crucial to attenuate the death of injured spinal motor neurons. Taken together, our findings demonstrate that Mst‐1 deficiency promotes post‐traumatic spinal motor neuron survival via enhancement of autophagy flux.

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Transcriptional profiling of human neural precursors post alcohol exposure reveals impaired neurogenesis via dysregulation of ERK signaling and miR‐145
Authors: Louis Lithin K. , Gopurappilly Renjitha , Surendran Harshini , Dutta Sunit , Pal Rajarshi
Published: August 2017

Gestational alcohol exposure causes a range of neuropsychological disorders by modulating neurodevelopmental genes and proteins. The extent of damage depends on the stage of the embryo as well as dosage, duration and frequency of exposure. Here, we investigated the neurotoxic effects of alcohol using human embryonic stem cells. Multiple read‐outs were engaged to assess the proliferation and differentiation capacity of neural precursor cells upon exposure to 100 mM ethanol for 48 h corresponding to the blood alcohol levels for binge drinkers. Whole‐genome analysis revealed a spatiotemporal dysregulation of neuronal‐ and glial‐specific gene expression that play critical roles in central nervous system (CNS) development. Alterations observed in the transcriptome may be attributed to epigenetic constitution witnessed by differential histone H3 Lys‐4/Lys‐27 modifications and acetylation status. In‐depth mRNA and protein expression studies revealed abrogated extracellular signal‐regulated kinases signaling in alcohol‐treated cells. Consistent with this finding, ingenuity pathway analysis and micro‐RNA profiling demonstrated up‐regulation of miR‐145 by targeting the neural specifier Sox‐2. We also show that the neurite branching complexity of tubulin, beta 3 class III+ neurons was greatly reduced in response to alcohol. Finally, in vivo studies using zebrafish embryos reconfirmed the in vitro findings. Employing molecular endpoints in a human model, this report indicates for the first time that acute alcohol exposure could lead to impaired brain development via perturbation of extracellular signal‐regulated kinases pathway and miR‐145. However, it still needs to be addressed whether these modulations sustain throughout development, compromising the ability of the individual during adulthood and aging.

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Efficacy of oral brush biopsy in potentially malignant disorder management
Authors: Goodson M. L. , Smith D. R. , Thomson P. J.
Published: August 2017

Background

Oral potentially malignant disorders (PMD) harbour unpredictable risk for squamous cell carcinoma development. Current management requires tissue biopsy for histopathology characterisation, dysplasia grading and targeted intervention to “high‐risk” lesions, although evidence‐based guidelines are limited and diagnoses subjective. This study investigated the use of adjunctive oral brush biopsy techniques during the management of PMD in a UK hospital population.

Methods

Retrospective review of a 310 PMD patient cohort presenting to Maxillofacial Surgery in Newcastle upon Tyne with new, single‐site lesions between December 2009 and May 2014. Patients underwent Orcellex® brush biopsy and liquid‐based cytology examination in addition to conventional biopsy techniques, with management proceeding along established care pathways. Patient demographics, cytology data, most significant histopathology diagnoses and clinical outcome were all documented at the study census date (31.12.15).

Results

A total of 170 male & 140 female patients (age range 18‐91 years), exhibiting primarily leukoplakia (86.5%) at floor of mouth and ventrolateral tongue sites (44.9%), were identified. Management comprised: observation (49.7%), laser surgery (44.9%), antifungal treatment (3.5%) and Head & Neck clinic referral following cancer diagnosis (1.9%). Clinical outcomes were as follows: disease free (51.3%), persistent PMD (42.3%) and malignant transformation (6.4%). Histology and cytology diagnoses strongly correlated (r = .305). Treatment modality, lesion site, histology and cytology diagnoses were the best predictors of clinical outcome.

Conclusions

Orcellex® brush cytology provides reliable diagnoses consistent with conventional histopathology and offers less invasive, adjunctive assessment appropriate for long‐term monitoring of patients in specialist clinics.
Effect of Firing Temperature at the Porcelain‐Metal Alloy Interface in Porcelain‐Fused‐to‐Metal Restorations. A SEM/EDS Study
Authors: Tripathi Arvind , Bagchi Soumyojeet , Singh Juhi
Published: August 2017

Purpose

To probe in greater detail the changes at the ceramometal interface induced by heat energy absorption, using energy diffraction X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and correlate these changes with the shear bond strength of porcelain to nickel chromium alloy.

Materials and Methods

Seventy‐five strips of nickel‐chromium alloy (20 mm long, 5 mm wide, 3 mm thick) were prepared and layered with porcelain, conforming to ANSI/ADA specification no. 38 (for Metal‐Ceramic Dental Restorative Systems: 2010). These test specimens were divided equally into three groups. Specimens of each group (25) were fired to a specific temperature range, that is 700°C, 900°C, and 960°C. SEM and EDS were performed on all specimens, at the metal alloy/ceramic interface. Bonding of the ceramic layer to the metal alloy was evaluated by a shear bond strength test as per ANSI/ADA specification no. 38. The data were recorded and analyzed using one‐way ANOVA and post hoc Tukey HSD test.

Results

SEM images of the porcelain/metal alloy interface revealed roughness of the metal alloy surface adjacent to the ceramic layer. EDS study revealed that an oxygen depletion zone was formed at the interface region, facilitating the formation of intermetallic compounds. The mean shear bond strength showed an upward trend until 900°C and decreased thereafter.

Conclusion

Formation of intermetallic compounds at the interface, in the presence of an oxygen depletion zone, was the prime factor in bonding of porcelain to metal alloy. This provides a new concept of ceramometal bonding.
Marginal Fit of Lithium Disilicate Crowns Fabricated Using Conventional and Digital Methodology: A Three‐Dimensional Analysis
Authors: Mostafa Nezrine Z. , Ruse N. Dorin , Ford Nancy L. , Carvalho Ricardo M. , Wyatt Chris C.L.
Published: August 2017

Purpose

To compare the marginal fit of lithium disilicate (LD) crowns fabricated with digital impression and manufacturing (DD), digital impression and traditional pressed manufacturing (DP), and traditional impression and manufacturing (TP).

Materials and Methods

Tooth #15 was prepared for all‐ceramic crowns on an ivorine typodont. There were 45 LD crowns fabricated using three techniques: DD, DP, and TP. Microcomputed tomography (micro‐CT) was used to assess the 2D and 3D marginal fit of crowns in all three groups. The 2D vertical marginal gap (MG) measurements were done at 20 systematically selected points/crown, while the 3D measurements represented the 3D volume of the gap measured circumferentially at the crown margin. Frequencies of different marginal discrepancies were also recorded, including overextension (OE), underextension (UE), and marginal chipping. Crowns with vertical MG > 120 μm at more than five points were considered unacceptable and were rejected. The results were analyzed by one‐way ANOVA with Scheffe post hoc test (α = 0.05).

Results

DD crowns demonstrated significantly smaller mean vertical MG (33.3 ± 19.99 μm) compared to DP (54.08 ± 32.34 μm) and TP (51.88 ± 35.34 μm) crowns. Similarly, MG volume was significantly lower in the DD group (3.32 ± 0.58 mm3) compared to TP group (4.16 ± 0.59 mm3). The mean MG volume for the DP group (3.55 ± 0.78 mm3) was not significantly different from the other groups. The occurrence of underextension error was higher in DP (6.25%) and TP (5.4%) than in DD (0.33%) group, while overextension was more frequent in DD (37.67%) than in TP (28.85%) and DP (18.75%) groups. Overall, 4 out of 45 crowns fabricated were deemed unacceptable based on the vertical MG measurements (three in TP group and one in DP group; all crowns in DD group were deemed acceptable).

Conclusion

The results suggested that digital impression and CAD/CAM technology is a suitable, better alternative to traditional impression and manufacturing.
Psychological Abuse Experienced in Groups Scale: Psychometric Properties of the Japanese Version
Authors: Saldaña Omar , Rodríguez‐Carballeira Álvaro , Almendros Carmen , Nishida Kimiaki
Published: August 2017

The purpose of this study was to adapt the Psychological Abuse Experienced in Groups Scale (PAEGS) for use in the Japanese population. This scale evaluates the frequency with which an individual has experienced psychologically abusive behaviors within a group. A questionnaire was administered to 130 former members of abusive groups and to a comparison sample composed of 124 former members of non‐abusive groups. The main results showed a one‐dimensional factor structure and an adequate reliability score. Significant correlations were found between the PAEGS and a group abusiveness measure, providing evidence of convergent validity. In addition, high discriminatory power was found, determining an optimal cut‐off point to distinguish between abusive experiences and non‐abusive experiences within groups. The Japanese version of the PAEGS is able to overcome limitations of previous instruments intended to assess the phenomenon, as sufficient empirical evidence is found for its use in research. In addition, it can be useful in clinical and legal contexts to assess the degree of psychological abuse experienced by Japanese people during their involvement in certain groups.
Effect of Intravenously Administered Crystalloid Solutions on Acid‐Base Balance in Domestic Animals
Authors: Muir W.
Published: August 2017

Intravenous fluid therapy can alter plasma acid‐base balance. The Stewart approach to acid‐base balance is uniquely suited to identify and quantify the effects of the cationic and anionic constituents of crystalloid solutions on plasma pH. The plasma strong ion difference (SID) and weak acid concentrations are similar to those of the administered fluid, more so at higher administration rates and with larger volumes. A crystalloid's in vivo effects on plasma pH are described by 3 general rules: SID > [] increases plasma pH (alkalosis); SID < [] decreases plasma pH (alkalosis); and SID = [] yields no change in plasma pH. The in vitro pH of commercially prepared crystalloid solutions has little to no effect on plasma pH because of their low titratable acidity. Appreciation of IV fluid composition and an understanding of basic physicochemical principles provide therapeutically valuable insights about how and why fluid therapy can produce and correct alterations of plasma acid‐base equilibrium. The ideal balanced crystalloid should (1) contain species‐specific concentrations of key electrolytes (Na+, Cl−, K+, Ca++, Mg++), particularly Na+ and Cl−; (2) maintain or normalize acid‐base balance (provide an appropriate SID); and (3) be isosmotic and isotonic (not induce inappropriate fluid shifts) with normal plasma.
A Retrospective Study on the Safety and Efficacy of Leflunomide in Dogs
Authors: Sato M. , Veir J.K. , Legare M. , Lappin M.R.
Published: August 2017

Background

Little clinical information is available concerning the use of leflunomide in dogs with immune‐mediated diseases.

Objectives

To report the safety and efficacy of leflunomide for the treatment of naturally occurring immune‐mediated diseases in dogs.

Animals

Ninety‐two dogs treated with leflunomide for management of suspected immune‐mediated diseases.

Methods

Retrospective medical record review from Jan 1995 to Dec 2014. Data that were extracted from the medical records included signalment, body weight, underlying indication for leflunomide, dosage of leflunomide, treatment duration, concurrent medications, treatment response, and adverse events.

Results

Adverse events that could be related to leflunomide administration included diarrhea (3 of 92, 3.3%), lethargy (2 of 92, 2.2%), unexplained hemorrhage (3 of 92, 3.3%), thrombocytopenia (2 of 31, 6.5%), and increased liver enzyme activities (1 of 16, 6.3%). Significant dose differences between dogs with adverse events (n = 11; median, 2.9 mg/kg/d; range, 1.8–3.6 mg/kg/d) and dogs without adverse events (n = 81; median, 1.6 mg/kg/d; range, 0.8–4.3 mg/kg/d) were found (P < 0.001). Treatment response could be evaluated in 17 dogs. Of these 17 dogs, 12 dogs (70.5%) had an apparent positive response to the use of leflunomide. There was no significant difference (P = 0.22) in dosages between dogs that responded to leflunomide (n = 12; median, 1.9 mg/kg/d; range, 1.0–3.5 mg/kg/d) and those that did not respond (n = 5; median, 1.7 mg/kg/d; range, 1.0–2.0 mg/kg/d).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Results suggest that the starting dosage of leflunomide should be 2 mg/kg/d rather than the currently suggested dosage of 3–4 mg/kg/d.
Chromosome arm‐specific patterns of polymorphism associated with chromosomal inversions in the major African malaria vector,Anopheles funestus
Authors: Kamdem Colince , Fouet Caroline , White Bradley J.
Published: August 2017

Chromosomal inversions facilitate local adaptation of beneficial mutations and modulate genetic polymorphism, but the extent of their effects within the genome is still insufficiently understood. The genome ofAnopheles funestus, a malaria mosquito endemic to sub‐Saharan Africa, contains an impressive number of paracentric polymorphic inversions, which are unevenly distributed among chromosomes and provide an excellent framework for investigating the genomic impacts of chromosomal rearrangements. Here, we present results of a fine‐scale analysis of genetic variation within the genome of two weakly differentiated populations ofAnopheles funestusinhabiting contrasting moisture conditions in Cameroon. Using population genomic analyses, we found that genetic divergence between the two populations is centred on regions of the genome corresponding to three inversions, which are characterized by high values ofFST, absolute sequence divergence and fixed differences. Importantly, in contrast to the 2L chromosome arm, which is collinear, nucleotide diversity is significantly reduced along the entire length of three autosome arms bearing multiple overlapping chromosomal rearrangements. These findings support the idea that interactions between reduced recombination and natural selection within inversions contribute to sculpt nucleotide polymorphism across chromosomes inAn. funestus.
Telipogon huancavelicanus sp. nov. (Orchidaceae) from Peru, and an updated description of T. deuterocuscoensis
Authors: Martel Carlos , Collantes Benjamín , Egoavil Luis
Published: August 2017

Here we report the new species Telipogon huancavelicanus and provide updates to the description of T. deuterocuscoensis. Telipogon huancavelicanus is similar to T. bennettii but differs by the oblanceolate petals, a basally subpandurate labelum with two divergent auriculae, and column with three dense tuffs of subtubular setae with ramified apices. Illustrations, habitat information and distribution are provided for both miniature Telipogon species. Additional comments on other miniature Telipogon species are also provided.
The Toarcian–Bajocian deltaic system in the North German Basin: Subsurface mapping of ancient deltas‐morphology, evolution and controls
Authors: Zimmermann Jens , Franz Matthias , Schaller Astrid , Wolfgramm Markus
Published: August 2017

Research focussing on the morphology and morphodynamics of modern river deltas has contributed much to the understanding of reservoir geometry and prediction of hydrocarbon splays and deep geothermal aquifers. The interplay of allogenic and autogenic controls results in complex histories of modern river deltas comprising subsequent regressive and transgressive stages of delta formation. The application to ancient examples is still ambiguous and in particular the detailed morphological description of ancient deltas is often hampered by limited subsurface data. This basin‐scale study employs a data set of 15 cored wells and more than 450 logged wells in combination with lithofacies, biofacies and architectural analysis to reconstruct high‐resolution subsurface facies and sand thickness maps of the Toarcian–Bajocian deltaic system in the North German Basin. The results of this study show the evolution from smaller elongate river‐dominated delta types in the Lower and Upper Toarcian (15 000 to 20 000 km²), and a larger lobate river‐dominated delta in the Upper Aalenian (40 000 km²) to a cuspate mixed river‐dominated and wave‐modified delta in the Upper Bajocian (25 000 km²). River‐dominated deltas are formed of distributary deltaic channel belts and associated sheetsands of the delta plain and distributary‐mouth bar complexes with bar‐finger sand architectures of the delta front. Increasing marine processes in the Bajocian resulted in modification of delta complexes forming a shoreface setting with foreshoals, arc‐like chains of ooid‐bearing barrier shoals and back barrier lagoons. The complex history of the Toarcian–Bajocian deltaic system was mainly controlled by allogenic sea‐level fluctuations that triggered the delta progradation and subordinately by allogenic basin reorganization. Autogenic process change of channel avulsion led to locally reduced sediment flux and culminated in lobe abandonment and transgressive shorelines. Differential compaction of underlying deltaic deposits result in strong differences in accommodation space and contributed greatly to large‐scale delta shifts (>300 km).
The Prognostic Significance of Soluble Programmed Death Ligand 1 Expression in Cancers: A Systematic Review and Meta‐analysis
Authors: Ding Y. , Sun C. , Li J. , Hu L. , Li M. , Liu J. , Pu L. , Xiong S.
Published: August 2017

The differential expression of soluble programmed death ligand 1 (sPD‐L1) has been found in some cancers; however, the correlation between sPD‐L1 expression and prognosis value in tumour is still unclear. Here, we conducted a meta‐analysis and systematic review to assess the prognostic value of sPD‐L1 in patients with cancer. Eligible studies were searched for in the databases including PubMed, Web of Science, ScienceDirect and Wiley Online Library database. The pooled hazard ratios (HRs) with a 95% confidence interval (95%CI) were calculated to assess the prognostic significance of sPD‐L1 in human cancer. Eight studies and 1102 patients with cancer were included in the final analysis, and the combined analysis indicated that a higher level of sPD‐L1 was associated with worse overall survival (OS) (HR = 1.60, 95%CI: 1.21–1.99). Furthermore, statistical significance was also observed in subgroup analysis stratified by the cancer type (haematological neoplasms or non‐haematological neoplasms), sample size (more or less than 100), cut‐off value of sPD‐L1 (more or less than 6.51 ng/ml) and ethnicity (Asian or European). The meta‐analysis indicates that circulating sPD‐L1 changes may serve as a useful biomarker for cancer prognosis, and higher level of sPD‐L1 may also be associated with poor outcomes in patients with cancer.
Noninvasive penetration of 5 nm hyaluronic acid molecules across the epidermal barrier (in vitro) and its interaction with human skin cells
Authors: Nashchekina Yu. A. , Raydan M.
Published: August 2017

Objective

Hyaluronic acid represents one of the major components of the extracellular environment. The main challenge remains in the ability to deliver these molecules noninvasively across the skin barrier, which can be overcome by the reduction in size to an extent that allows these molecules to pass across the skin barrier.

The aim of this study was to measure the penetration and bioavailability of low molecular weight hyaluronic acid to cross an epidermal barrier model.

Methods

Determining the quantity of hyaluronic acid in the test solutions was carried with method of photocolorimetry analysis. Investigation of the interaction of cells with LMWHA was studied with a confocal microscope.

Results

The study showed that LMWHA is able to cross the epidermis. Most effective penetration level is during the first 6 hours reaching 75%, and then the concentration started to decline and reached the equilibrium state within the following 2 hours. Confocal laser microscopy demonstrated different distribution and behavior of these molecules among the keratinocytes and fibroblasts.

Conclusion

Reducing the size of hyaluronic acid to 5 nm enhance their transport across the epidermal layer. The concentration of hyaluronic acid molecules was higher on the fibroblast surface in comparison to their extracellular environment.
How do we perform and bill for blood bank physician consultative services?
Authors: Jhang Jeffrey S. , Francis Richard O. , Winkler Anne , Tormey Christopher
Published: August 2017

Transfusion medicine (TM) physicians provide medical services that benefit all patients such as providing 24‐hour laboratory coverage, advising health care providers on test interpretation and selection, validating new methods, and supervising technical personnel. These services ensure delivery of accurate, reliable, and timely laboratory test results and blood products. TM physicians also provide consultations to individual patients by 1) interpreting and determining the clinical significance of test results (e.g., alloantibodies, direct antiglobulin tests), 2) recommending appropriate component therapy and approving deviations from laboratory policy, and 3) evaluating and recommending treatment of suspected transfusion reactions. The potential benefits of consultations are improved quality and cost of health care, enhanced provider education, and decreased inappropriate testing and product utilization. When physician services are delivered to individual patients, are appropriately requested, provide a diagnosis or recommendation, and are properly documented, TM physicians can receive professional reimbursement. While many TM physicians provide medical direction and oversight of apheresis procedures, billing in this area is sufficiently complex to be reviewed elsewhere. The objective of this article is for educational purposes to describe the 1) benefits of a consultative TM service, 2) development of reimbursement systems in the United States for professional component services and the current regulatory requirements, 3) current procedural terminology codes commonly used for TM physician services, and 4) examples of consultation documentation and daily workflow at tertiary care teaching hospitals. The information provided should help guide physicians to deliver and bill for these services.
Mannose and fructose metabolism in red blood cells during cold storage in SAGM
Authors: Rolfsson Óttar , Johannsson Freyr , Magnusdottir Manuela , Paglia Giuseppe , Sigurjonsson Ólafur E. , Bordbar Aarash , Palsson Sirus , Brynjólfsson Sigurður , Guðmundsson Sveinn , Palsson Bernhard
Published: August 2017

BACKGROUND

Alternate sugar metabolism during red blood cell (RBC) storage is not well understood. Here we report fructose and mannose metabolism in RBCs during cold storage in SAGM and the impact that these monosaccharides have on metabolic biomarkers of RBC storage lesion.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

RBCs were stored in SAGM containing uniformly labeled 13C‐fructose or 13C‐mannose at 9 or 18 mmol/L concentration for 25 days. RBCs and media were sampled at 14 time points during storage and analyzed using ultraperformance liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry. Blood banking quality assurance measurements were performed.

RESULTS

Red blood cells incorporated fructose and mannose during cold storage in the presence of glucose. Mannose was metabolized in preference to glucose via glycolysis. Fructose lowered adenosine triphosphate (ATP) levels and contributed little to ATP maintenance when added to SAGM. Both monosaccharides form the advanced glycation end product glycerate. Mannose activates enzymes in the RBC that take part in glycan synthesis.

CONCLUSIONS

Fructose or mannose addition to RBC SAGM concentrates may not offset the shift in metabolism of RBCs that occurs after 10 days of storage. Fructose and mannose metabolism at 4°C in SAGM reflects their metabolism at physiologic temperature. Glycerate excretion is a measure of protein deglycosylation activity in stored RBCs. No cytoprotective effect was observed upon the addition of either fructose or mannose to SAGM.
Expediting red blood cell transfusions by syringing causes significant hemolysis
Authors: De Villiers Willem Lambertus , Murray Adriaan Albertus , Levin Andrew Ian
Published: August 2017

BACKGROUND

Techniques commonly used to expedite blood transfusions include pneumatically pressurizing red blood cell (RBC) bags or manual syringing its contents. We compared these techniques on RBC hemolysis using a simulated transfusion model.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Fifteen warmed RBC units that were 12.3 ± 4.3 (95% confidence interval [CI], 10.1‐14.5) days old were each subjected to two experimental rapid transfusion techniques. RBCs from each technique were directed through 18‐ and 22‐gauge cannulas attached to blood administration sets. One technique involved RBC bag pressurization to 300 mmHg. The other employed a 20‐mL syringe to effect forceful, manual aspiration from the RBC bag followed by forceful, manual RBC injection. The control group was gravity driven without cannulas. Free hemoglobin (Hb) concentrations were measured and percent hemolysis was calculated.

RESULTS

Free Hb concentrations and percent hemolysis (median [95% CI]) were similar in the control (0.05 [0.03‐0.08] g/dL and 0.13% [0.09%‐0.17%], respectively) and pressurized experiments (0.06 [0.05‐0.09] g/dL; 0.14% [0.12%‐0.22%]), respectively. Syringing resulted in 10‐fold higher free Hb concentrations (0.55 [0.38‐0.92] g/dL) and percent hemolysis (1.28% [1.03%‐2.15%]) than when employing the control (p < 0.0001) or pressurization (p < 0.0001) techniques. Cannula sizes studied did not affect hemolysis.

CONCLUSION

Forceful manual syringing caused significant hemolysis and high free Hb concentrations. Pressurizing RBC bags induced no more hemolysis than after gravity‐facilitated transfusions. Syringing to expedite RBC transfusions should be avoided in favor of pneumatic RBC bag pressurization.
Geographic Variation in 2010 U.S. Census Coverage Rates for Young Children: A Look at Counties
Authors: P. O’Hare William
Published: August 2017

Data from the Census Bureau’s Demographic Analysis (DA) show there was a net undercount of almost one million children under age 5 in the 2010 Decennial Census. The net undercount for young children was more than twice as high as any other age group. Given the high net total undercount of young children it would be useful to know how this net undercount is distributed geographically. In this study, the 2010 Decennial Census county-level counts of children age 0 to 4 are compared to corresponding figures from the Census Bureau’s Vintage 2010 population estimates, to ascertain census coverage for young children. Results show that net undercount rates for young children are higher in larger counties and counties with high percentages of Black or Hispanic children but county growth rates do not seem to be related to net undercount rates for young children. Discussion explores how this information may be helpful in the 2020 Census.
Design of Education Methods in a Virtual Environment
Authors: Yavich Roman , Starichenko Boris
Published: August 2017

The purpose of the presented article is to review existing approaches to modern training methods design and to create a variant of its technology in virtual educational environments in order to develop general cultural and professional students’ competence in pedagogical education. The conceptual modeling of a set of methods for students’ training in the conditions of an information-and-communication saturated environment was carried out by means of a subject-design method within the framework of prescriptive theory. This allowed us to allocate the stages in designing the methods of student training when using a virtual educational environment. The presented results reflect the general approach to the design of teacher activity including the design of training methods on the basis of accounting for the primary structural components of educational technologies. The given results of examining the features and the opportunities of the virtual educational environment allow us to define the essence of training methods enrichment as well as mechanisms of self-adjustment and self-improvement for a training methods system in educational information environments, and to formulate conclusions about the impossibility of creating modern educational processes without virtual educational environments.
Thermomechanical Analysis of Epidermal Electronic Devices Integrated With Human Skin
Authors: Li Yuhang , Zhang Jianpeng , Xing Yufeng , Song Jizhou
Published: August 2017

Epidermal electronic devices (EEDs) are very attractive in applications of monitoring human vital signs for diagnostic, therapeutic, or surgical functions due to their ability for integration with human skin. Thermomechanical analysis is critical for EEDs in these applications since excessive heating-induced temperature increase and stress may cause discomfort. An axisymmetric analytical thermomechanical model based on the transfer matrix method, accounting for the coupling between the Fourier heat conduction in the EED and the bio-heat transfer in human skin, the multilayer feature of human skin and the size effect of the heating component in EEDs, is established to study the thermomechanical behavior of the EED/skin system. The predictions of the temperature increase and principle stress from the analytical model agree well with those from finite element analysis (FEA). The influences of various geometric parameters and material properties of the substrate on the maximum principle stress are fully investigated to provide design guidelines for avoiding the adverse thermal effects. The thermal and mechanical comfort analyses are then performed based on the analytical model. These results establish the theoretical foundation for thermomechanical analysis of the EED/skin system.