bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Causes of construction delay from contractors and suppliers in Thailand's oil and gas platform projects
Authors: Gomarn Pittayaporn , Pongpeng Jakrapong
Published: August 2018

Construction project delays caused by contractors and suppliers are the top problems in Thailand's oil and gas industries. Recognizing this importance and their relationships between factors can help reduce the risk of delays in construction projects. Therefore, this study set out to confirm factors and inspect relationships between delay factors of contractors and suppliers. A 16 item questionnaire survey was distributed to 134 managers, engineers, and supervisors in oil and gas platform construction projects in Thailand. A confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was performed by the use of Amos Version 20 software program. The analysis results showed that delays caused by the contractors and suppliers had high relationships, due to high regression weighs. The delays caused by the contractors included seven factors which included poor site management and supervision (17%), lack of safety rules and regulations (16%), poor communication and coordination with others (15%), poor procurement system management (15%), defective components and mistakes during construction (14%), supplier payments lateness (13%), and poor planning and scheduling (10%). The delays caused by the suppliers included six factors which included the supply of unqualified and unskilled personnel (22%), supply of low efficiency equipment (20%), late delivery of materials and equipment (20%), supply of low quality materials (16%), late supply of workers (16%), and price escalation (5%).
A nonlinear optimization model on the reinforcement length of a modular block wall by varying surcharge and soil strength parameters
Authors: Chatpattananan Vuttichai , Kongsomboon Thanadol
Published: August 2018

This study proposes a nonlinear optimization approach in designing a modular block wall which is atype of the mechanical stabilized earth wall. A nonlinear optimization model is proposed based on minimizing the reinforcement length where the constraints considered are the external stability and the internal stability. Theoptimum reinforcement length can be determined based on available soil strength parameters and the maximum surcharge. This study also includes the parametric study of the reinforced soil, retained soil, and foundation soil by varying the ranges of the wall height, surcharge, and soil strength parameters in density and friction angle to see the behaviours of the aforementioned external stability and internal stability. This can be beneficial in designing thismodular block wall encountering a poor soil condition or a large amount surcharge.
Development of a numerical simulation model for suction rate using CADMAS-SURF
Authors: Silarom Kornvisith , Yamamoto Yoshimichi , Yoshizawa Syota , Charusrojthanadech Nunthawath
Published: August 2018

There are many cases where a coastal dike or a seawall constructed on a very shallow area was broken by a wave of a smaller height than the designed height. In many of these cases, the reason of the destruction was the suction phenomena. This phenomenon happens when waves reaches the front of the dike or the seawall, the wave pressure scours the front soil of the structure until it reaches the lowest edge of the structure followed by sucking of backfilling material of the structure. In this research, the authors proposed the numerical model which can calculate the suction rate with elapsed time by applying the pore water pressure and the flow velocity inside a dike or a seawall using “CADMAS-SURF”. The authors proposed three coefficients for improving the calculated pressure from CADMAS-SURF. The reliability of the model was confirmed by reproducing the suction phenomena in Hirono Coast of Japan.
Formulation and preparation method of pine sawdust-based food for rumiants
Authors: Espinosa-Garza Gerardo , Loera-Hernandez Imelda , Antonyan Natella
Published: August 2018

The waste products of the wood industries, particularly pine sawdust, represent a great potential source of dietary energy for ruminants. Even though the use of pine sawdust as part of a ruminant’s diet represents an important environmental impact, studies on this subject are scarce. It is worth mentioning that pine sawdust is currently being used as a source of fibre in ovine diet. However, its digestion is limited due to its high lignin content. The objective of the present investigation consists in the design of a new treatment process for lignin degradation into pine sawdust through the use of the fungus Pleurotus ostreatus. From the results obtained, a new and sustainable food for the ruminants based on degraded pine sawdust is proposed. The experiments carried out showed significant elevation in the exploitation of the nutritious components of pine sawdust contained in the developed product due to the improvements in the digestive parameters of the ruminants. With the results obtained, besides the nutritional and environmental impact, a better control of the costs generated by the feeding of the ruminants is intended. This is due to the fact that pine sawdust does not suffer from production variation in comparison with other consumables.
Optimization study on Niosome Loaded Ficus Deltodia Extract.
Authors: Zainol Noorazwani , Siew Chin Chen , Rashidah Ahmed Nor , Zainol Noorazwani , Abdul Aziz Azila , Sabtu Rahimah , Yaakob Harisun
Published: August 2018

Ficus deltoidea (FD) plant extract is not able to cross the lipidic biomembranes of the skin as they are hydrophilic in nature. In order to overcome this problem FD were encapsulated with noisome, a novel lipid delivery system that potentially increases the absorption. This research study on optimum formulation and process condition of niosome loaded FD extract. The factors involved in formulation were amount of Span 60, amount of cholesterol and amount of Labrasol. Their corresponding responses for the design were entrapment efficiency (EE), particle size (PS) and zeta potential (ZP). The optimum formulation obtained were 0.6 mmol of Span 60, 0.4 of mmol Cholesterol, and 0.1 mmol of Labrasol. Results obtained showed improved activity on skin penetration compared to free FD.
Comparison of the effect of freezing on the quality of ‘nam dokmai” mango fruit
Authors: Prakobsang Suwicha , Pornchalermpong Pimpen
Published: August 2018

This study evaluated effect of freezing methods on freezing rate and physical qualities of mango flesh before and after thawing. The method of freezing included still air freezing (at -20°C), air blast freezing (at -35°C, velocity 3 m/sec) and Air Blast Combined Vacuum Freezing (at -40°C, were configured core temperature 2 level is -5°C and -10°C) until the temperature reaches -20°C. The frozen flesh were thawed and evaluated for drip loss, pH, total soluble solid, colour, texture (firmness and %firmness decrease). The results showed that Air Blast Combined Vacuum Freezing (-5°C) Quality of mango frozen after thawing did not show significant effect on pH and total soluble solid of fresh mango. The frozen mango had highest lightness (L*) and the total colour differences (ΔE) had lowest and can maintain the maximum. Therefore, it's possible to introduce air blast combined vacuum freezing techniques applied to frozen mango industry as a result of significant increases freezing rate.
Response of black rice (Oryza sativa L Indica.) to organic fertilizer and seedling number on grain yield, amylum, antioxidant, and thiamin hydrochloride contents
Authors: Herliana Okti , Anwar A. H. Saeful , Widiyawati Ida
Published: August 2018

This study aimed to investigate the influence of organic fertilizers and seedling numbers each holes of black rice on yield, antioxidant, amylum, and thiamin hydroclorine contents, and to observe the interaction effect between types of organic fertilizers and seedling numbers each hole planting. This study was conducted on rice field in Karanglewas Kidul Village, Karanglewas, Banyumas Regency, Central Java from April until September 2016. The location altitude in this study for about 93 meters above the sea level. The study was arranged by Split Plot Design by the main plot consist with three types of organic fertilizers that was chicken, goat, and cow manures, and the sub plot was consists by seedling number were, three, two, and one seedling by each holes, with three replicates of each combination treatments. The result showed that chicken manure treatment provide the best influences on grain weight per hectare by 5.154 tons, amylum content by 33.86%, anthocyanin content by 275.40 ppm, and Thiamin hydrocloride content by 0.056 mg/10g. The three seedling each hole provide the best influences on amylum content by 33.78%, anthocyanin content by 275.18 ppm, and thiamine hydrochloride content by 0.058 mg/10g.
Study of atrazine removal by an adsorbent synthesised by water hyacinth
Authors: Nuntamongkol Sitanan , Deetae Pawinee , Wongpromrat Patthranit
Published: August 2018

In this work, water hyacinth was selected as a raw materials for synthesising the activated carbon used for removing atrazine, one of the most famous herbicides used in Thailand, from water. Three different treating methods were performed in order to attain the best adsorbent; untreated (AC), HCl-treated (HCl-AC) and NaOH-treated (NaOH-AC) activated carbons. After pyrolysis, NaOH-AC became ash, so it was not suitable for using as an adsorbent. Among these, HCl-AC was the best adsorbent for removing atrazine from water because of its highest surface areas. The adsorption experiments using AC and HCl-AC as the adsorbents confirmed that the adsorption efficiency of HCl-AC was higher than that of AC. In addition, the adsorption isotherm of HCl-AC was investigated by varying the atrazine initial concentration in the range of 3-15 ppm. The results best fitted with Langmuir isotherm that means this adsorption phenomenon was chemisorption with the maximum adsorbent capacity of 24.510 mg/g, Langmuir isotherm constant of 10.462 L/mg and the separation factor of 0.006 indicating that the equilibrium sorption of atrazine by HCl-AC was favourable.
Detection of arsenite-oxidizing bacteria in groundwater with low arsenic concentration in Rayong province, Thailand
Authors: Pipattanajaroenkul Phurinat , Sonthiphand Prinpida , Kraidech Supeerapat , Boonkaewwan Satika , Chotpantarat Srilert
Published: August 2018

As contamination in groundwater has become one of the global problems. It has been reported that million people around the world get adverse effects on their health by direct and indirect As-contaminated groundwater consumption. In groundwater, the most abundant As species are arsenite (As3+) and arsenate (As5+). Arsenite is more toxic and mobile than arsenate. Consequently, arsenite oxidation is considered as an important process in groundwater As bioremediation. It has been reported that arsenite-oxidizing bacteria play an important role in reducing As toxicity in contaminated groundwater environment. A functional gene involved in arsenite oxidation is aioA gene. The key objective of this study was to investigate the arsenite-oxidizing bacteria in groundwater with low arsenic concentration in Rayong province, Thailand. The results showed that the arsenite-oxidizing bacteria were detected in groundwater with low arsenic concentration. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that they were closely related to Rhizobium sp., Bradyrhizobiaceae sp., Hydrogenophaga sp., and Stenotrophomonas sp. The knowledge gained from this study will help better understand the distribution of arsenite-oxidizing bacteria in groundwater with low As concentration.
Effects of climate change on agriculture water demand in lower Pak Phanang river basin, southern part of Thailand
Authors: Kaewthong Natapon , Ditthakit Pakorn
Published: August 2018

The aim of the research is to analyse the effects on agricultural water demand in the Lower Pak Phanang River Basin area due to climate change. The climate data used in the analysis were rainfall, maximum, minimum, and average temperatures. The climate datasets were obtained from statistical downscaling of global circulation model under the CMIP5 project by means of bias correction with Optimizing Quantile Mapping implemented by the Hydro and Agro Informatics Institute. To determine agriculture water demand, reference evapotranspiration (ETo) based on Hargreaves method was calculated for both baseline climate data (1987-2015) and forecasted climate data in 2038. For agriculture water demand in the Pak Phanang river basin, we considered paddy field, palm oil, rubber, grapefruit, orchard, vegetable, ruzy and biennial crop, based on land use data of the Land Development Department of Thailand in 2012. The results showed that forecasted agriculture water demand in 2038 with existing land use data in 2012 will be increased with the average of 18.9% or 61.78 MCM as compared to baseline climate condition. Both water demand and supply management measures would be suitably prepared before facing unexpected situation.
Effect of doping Fe/Cu/Ti on WO3 on furfural degradation
Authors: Pitak Guntapon , Srisodsai Suphitchaya , Termtanun Mutsee
Published: August 2018

This research improved tungsten oxide catalysts to increase efficiency in photocatalytic degradation of furfural under visible light. The aim of this research was to compare the efficiency of modified tungsten oxide with undoped and commercial tungsten oxide. Tungsten oxide nanoparticles were doped with 3 single metals, which were Fe/Cu/Ti at 1%wt, 2%wt, and 3%wt, synthesized by flame spray pyrolysis technique (FSP) and then characterization by X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), N2 adsorption/desorption (BET surface area analysis), UV-Vis Spectroscopy (UV-Vis). Photocatalytic degradation experiments using doped WO3 were carried out with 5 ppm initial concentration of furfural solution using 0.6 M catalyst concentration under visible light. From the results, FSP-synthesized WO3 has better efficiency in furfural degradation than the commercial WO3. All catalysts have mesoporous structure because an average pore size is in the range of 6-10 nm. Among all synthesized and doped WO3, it can be concluded that 3%wt Fe-doped tungsten oxide provides the highest acceleration rate in photocatalytic degradation of furfural.
Modeling of hot air drying of coconut residue
Authors: Wutthigarn Pattawee , Hongwiangjan Jeerayut , Sripinyowanich Jongyingcharoen Jiraporn
Published: August 2018

In this study, the effect of drying temperature (50-110°C) on hot air drying characteristics of coconut residue was investigated. The drying time and drying rate (DR) were in the ranges of 540-100 min and 0.0048-0.0182 g water/g dry matter·min at the drying temperature of 50-110°C, respectively. Six drying models (Lewis, Page, Henderson and Pabis, Logarithmic, Midilli et al, and linear-plus-exponential model) were used to determine the change in moisture ratio (MR) with drying time. The linear-plus-exponential model provided best fitting of the predicted MR to the experimental MR with the highest average R2 of 0.9985 and the lowest RMSE of 0.01463. The variation of drying temperature with the constants and coefficient of the model was polynomial type. The generalized linear-plus-exponential model as a function of drying temperature gave best result of prediction of MR with the R2 of 0.9709.
Cholesterol and ApoE in Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Potier Marie-Claude , Hanbouch Linda , Marquer Catherine
Published: August 2018

Genetic, neuropathological and biochemical studies suggest strong links between cholesterol, the apolipoprotein E (APOE) and Alzheimer’s disease (AD), both in humans and in animal models of the disease. From the literature and our work, we can predict that transient increase of the levels of cholesterol at the membrane of neurons would profoundly affect the processing of the transmembrane Amyloid Precursor Protein (APP) by triggering its clathrin dependent endocytosis and the resulting production of amyloid-β (Aβ) peptides. Here, we will review these data together with structural and molecular dynamic studies that characterized the role of cholesterol on APP conformation and positioning at the membrane. Specifically decreasing brain cholesterol or replacing it with plant sterols crossing the blood brain barrier appear like promising strategies to either delay or counteract the development of sporadic AD.
Synthesis of the 5-Fluoro-4-hydroxypentyl Side Chain Metabolites of Synthetic Cannabinoids 5F-APINACA and CUMYL-5F-PINACA
Authors: Trudell Mark , McKinnie Ryan , Darweesh Tasneam , Zito Phoebe , Shields Terrell
Published: August 2018

An efficient method for the construction of the 5-fluoro-4-hydroxypentyl side chain common to a number of synthetic cannabinoid metabolites was developed. A series of hydroxyl protecting groups was examined to assess the viability as orthogonal protecting groups for epoxidation and regioselective hydrofluorination. The 1-[5-fluoro-4-(diphenyl-tert-butylsilyloxy)]pentyl tosylate was prepared in 67% overall yield (six steps) from pent-4-en-1-ol and was employed for the synthesis of the 4-hydroxy metabolites of the synthetic cannabinoid 5F-APINACA and CUMYL-5F-PINACA.
Synthesis of Spiro Barbiturates and Meldrum’s Acid Derivatives via a [2+2+2] Cyclotrimerization
Authors: Kotha Sambasivarao , Sreevani Gaddamedi
Published: August 2018

Intermolecular [2+2+2] cycloaddition of propargyl halides with 1,6-diynes was accomplished with a catalytic amount of Mo(CO)6 to generate benzyl halo barbiturates and Meldrum’s acid derivatives containing a spiro linkage. Furthermore, we have extended this methodology to synthesize linearly fused Meldrum’s acid derivatives via Diels–Alder reaction using rongalite chemistry.
Stereoselective Reactions of ortho-Quinone Methide and ortho-Quinone Methide Imines and Their Utility in Natural Product Synthesis
Authors: Spivey Alan , Nielsen Christian , Abas Hossay
Published: August 2018

Herein presented is a review of the reactivity and synthetic utility of ortho-quinone methides and ortho-quinone methide imines. These versatile intermediates have received significant attention in the literature and new methods for their preparation and reaction as well as recent applications in total synthesis are discussed.

1 Introduction

2 Conjugate Addition Reactions

3 Concerted Cycloaddition Reactions

4 Stepwise Addition Reactions

5 Applications in Total Synthesis

6 Conclusion
Formation of CO2 from formic acid through catalytic electron channel
Authors: Davis Daly , Kundu Sramana , Prabhudesai Vaibhav S. , Sajeev Y. , Krishnakumar E.
Published: August 2018

Low energy electrons can initiate and control chemical reactions through resonant attachment forming an electron-molecule compound state. Recently, it has been theoretically shown that free electrons can also act as catalysts in chemical reactions. We investigate this novel concept for the case of conversion of formic acid into CO2. Resonant production of CO2 from cold formic acid films by low energy electron impact is observed using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The resonant peak observed at 6 eV is identified as the catalytic electron channel. The experimental results are augmented with the ab initio quantum chemical calculations.
Evolution of the electron cyclotron drift instability in two-dimensions
Authors: Janhunen Salomon , Smolyakov Andrei , Sydorenko Dmytro , Jimenez Marilyn , Kaganovich Igor , Raitses Yevgeny
Published: August 2018

The Electron Cyclotron Drift Instability driven by the electron E × B drift in partially magnetized plasmas is investigated with highly resolved particle-in-cell simulations. The emphasis is on two-dimensional effects involving the parallel dynamics along the magnetic field in a finite length plasma with dielectric walls. It is found that the instability develops as a sequence of growing cyclotron harmonics demonstrating wave breaking and complex nonlinear interactions, being particularly pronounced in ion density fluctuations at short wavelengths. At the same time, nonlinear evolution of fluctuations of the ion and electron density, as well as the anomalous electron current, shows cascade toward long wavelengths. Tendency to generate long wavelength components is most clearly observed in the spectra of the electron density and the anomalous current fluctuations. An intense but slowly growing mode with a distinct eigen-mode structure along the magnetic field develops at a later nonlinear stage enhancing the tendency toward long wavelength condensation. The latter mode having a finite wavelength along the magnetic field is identified as the Modified Two-Stream Instability (MTSI). It is shown that the MTSI mode results in strong parallel heating of electrons.
A novel surface area to volume ratio estimation technique for nanohemisphere contacted Schottky barrier structures
Authors: Cheung Ka Wai , Yu Jerry , Ho Derek
Published: August 2018

Nanostructured metal-semiconductor interfaces, also known as Schottky barriers, exhibit remarkable electronic properties. The surface morphology of nanostructure contacted Schottky barriers has a significant effect on its current-voltage (I-V) characteristics, which is crucial for high-performance device applications. In this work, we present a surface area to volume ratio (SVR) estimation technique for nanohemisphere Schottky interfaces. By applying Gauss’s law, i.e. without deviating from first principle, we expand the formulation of thermionic emission theory to incorporate surface area and volume. The proposed technique has been assessed by comparison against AFM measured surface characteristics of fabricated Pt/ZnO nanohemisphere structures. Results show that the proposed technique has a high accuracy to within several percent from surface measurements. This technique provides access to SVR while eliminating the need for direct surface characterization, which can be an instrumental tool for the design and analysis of surface-sensitive devices, such as sensors.
2-Methyl-9,10-bis(naphthalen-2-yl)anthracene doped rubidium carbonate as an effective electron injecting interlayer on indium-tin oxide cathode in inverted bottom-emission organic light-emitting diodes
Authors: Tsai Chi-Ting , Kao Po-Ching , Chu Sheng-Yuan
Published: August 2018

2-Methyl-9,10-bis(naphthalen-2-yl)anthracene doped rubidium carbonate (MADN:Rb2CO3) is used as an effective electron injecting interlayer on an indium-tin oxide (ITO) cathode for inverted bottom-emission organic light-emitting diodes (IBOLEDs). At a Rb2CO3 doping concentration of 20% in MADN, the device exhibits enhanced characteristics, some of which are turn-on voltage, luminance at a given current density, and current efficiency. The attained performance is better than that of the device using lithium fluoride (LiF) as an n-type dopant. Space-charge-limited current acknowledges improved electrical properties of Rb2CO3 doped MADN. Ultraviolet and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy investigation unveils an interfacial dipole layer induced by charge transfer between Rb2CO3 and ITO, leading to a lowered ITO work function and an electron injection barrier. The improved electron injection and transport capabilities contribute to better charge balance in IBOLED, thus resulting in advanced luminance efficiency. In addition, the morphology stability of organic films is also amended, which benefits long-term reliability under operationally induced thermal stress. Moreover, the effectiveness of using Rb2CO3:MADN as an electron injecting layer for IBOLEDs is superior to many of its alkali-based counterparts demonstrated in the literature, with high compatibility with different types of sophisticated ITO-based IBOLEDs.
Ultrahigh Hall mobility and suppressed backward scattering in layered semiconductor Bi2O2Se
Authors: Tong Tong , Zhang Minhao , Chen Yequan , Li Yan , Chen Liming , Zhang Junran , Song Fengqi , Wang Xuefeng , Zou Wenqin , Xu Yongbing , Zhang Rong
Published: August 2018

We report on an ultrahigh Hall mobility exceeding 40 000 cm2/V s and a very long traditional scattering time in a trivial layered semiconductor Bi2O2Se. Shubnikov-de Haas (SdH) oscillations were observed in both the unsaturated longitudinal linear magnetoresistance Rxx and the transverse Hall resistance Rxy. The amplitude ΔRxy of SdH oscillations was phase-shifted approximately 180° with respect to ΔRxx, indicating the strong suppression of electron backward scattering. This was further proved by the evidence of transport lifetime that is 10 times longer than the quantum lifetime. Our results show that the suppressed backward scattering in nontrivial Dirac semimetals can also occur in the trivial semiconductor Bi2O2Se.
A new discovery of arc shape in pulsed ultrasonic wave assisted TIG welding
Authors: Chen Chao , Fan Chenglei , Lin Sanbao , Zhou Lei , Yang Chunli
Published: August 2018

An entirely new change-rule of an arc shape was found in the pulsed ultrasonic assisted tungsten-electrode inert gas welding process (PU-TIG), i.e., the arc shape had an obvious characteristic of periodic changes under the actions of a pulsed ultrasonic wave in PU-TIG. However, periodic changes of the arc shape were different between the arc white bright zone and the arc dark bright zone. The varying process of the arc shape was that the arc shape went through from expansion to contraction and re-expansion. Meanwhile, the constantly changing acoustic radiation force and electromagnetic force were the main cause of the periodic change of the arc shape in the PU-TIG welding process.
Note: An ion imaging spectrometer for studying photo-induced fragmentation in small molecules
Authors: Gopal R. , Sen A. , Sahu S. R. , Venkatachalam A. S. , Anand M. , Sharma V.
Published: August 2018

A three-dimensional ion imaging spectrometer has been designed and calibrated by ion trajectories simulations. We present a recipe for the verification of the calibration by obtaining kinetic energy (KE) distribution from the recorded flight times alone and consequently correlating the two KE spectra.
Genetic diversity and association mapping of Ethiopian and exotic finger millet accessions
Authors: Lule Dagnachew , de Villiers Santie , Fetene Masresha , Odeny Damaris A. , Rathore Abhishek , Das Roma Rani , Tesfaye Kassahun
Published: August 2018

Combining morphological and molecular data to identify genetic variation and marker–trait association is one of the most important prerequisites for genomics-assisted selection in crop improvement. To this end, a total of 138 finger millet (Eleusine coracana subsp. coracana) accessions including five improved varieties were evaluated to assess the genetic variation and population structure and undertake association mapping. These accessions were basically collected from Ethiopia (96), Eritrea (8), Kenya (7), Zambia (9) and Zimbabwe (13). Finger millet accessions were evaluated in the field for 10 important agronomic traits and also characterised using a set of 20 microsatellite markers. Mean polymorphism information content of 0.61 was observed from a total of 222 alleles with an average of 11.1 alleles per microsatellite locus. About 61% of alleles detected were rare (<5%) and specific allele amplification was observed in 34 accessions. Both weighted neighbour-joining based clustering using molecular data and hierarchical clustering using phenotypic trait data grouped the 138 accessions into four major clusters that were not entirely based on their geographical origins. Genome-wide association studies depicted 16 significant (P < 0.01) associations between 13 microsatellite markers and six agronomic traits. Our results reveal a unique abundance of rare alleles in finger millet and highlight the need for more careful selection of genome-wide association studies in the future in order to capture the contribution of rare alleles to important agronomic traits.
Fixing points on a shifting landscape
Authors: Breeze Ruth
Published: August 2018

This paper focuses on reader comments published in two online UK newspapers (Mail Online and Independent) in response to articles about one discreditable incident involving a far-right political leader. The concepts of articulation and fixation are used to examine how these readers engage with the politician’s actions using ethical categories. While Independent readers build theoretical articulations between the politician’s actions and a generalised crisis of confidence in politics, readers of the Mail Online, regardless of their political sympathies, accept ethical categories as fixed points to anchor the discourse.
TFEB enhances astroglial uptake of extracellular tau species and reduces tau spreading
Authors: Martini-Stoica Heidi , Cole Allysa L. , Swartzlander Daniel B. , Chen Fading , Wan Ying-Wooi , Bajaj Lakshya , Bader David A. , Lee Virginia M.Y. , Trojanowski John Q. , Liu Zhandong , Sardiello Marco , Zheng Hui
Published: August 2018

The progression of tau pathology in Alzheimer’s disease follows a stereotyped pattern, and recent evidence suggests a role of synaptic connections in this process. Astrocytes are well positioned at the neuronal synapse to capture and degrade extracellular tau as it transits the synapse and hence could potentially have the ability to inhibit tau spreading and delay disease progression. Our study shows increased expression and activity of Transcription Factor EB (TFEB), a master regulator of lysosomal biogenesis, in response to tau pathology in both human brains with dementia and transgenic mouse models. Exogenous TFEB expression in primary astrocytes enhances tau fibril uptake and lysosomal activity, while TFEB knockout has the reverse effect. In vivo, induced TFEB expression in astrocytes reduces pathology in the hippocampus of PS19 tauopathy mice, as well as prominently attenuates tau spreading from the ipsilateral to the contralateral hippocampus in a mouse model of tau spreading. Our study suggests that astrocytic TFEB plays a functional role in modulating extracellular tau and the propagation of neuronal tau pathology in tauopathies such as Alzheimer’s disease.
The Invisible Law of Visible Difference: Disfigurement in the Workplace
Authors: Saunders Hannah
Published: August 2018

The Equality Act 2010 provides that people with severe disfigurements are deemed to be disabled. Through the lens of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities and models of disability, this article highlights a number of difficulties with the the Act’s approach , including the problematic ‘severity’ threshold, the issue of complex conditions which include both disfigurement and functional impairment and a lack of provision for progressively disfiguring conditions. Analysis is then provided of opportunities to mitigate these difficulties, specifically the concept of perceptive discrimination, and the application of the duty to make reasonable adjustments to disfiguring conditions. It is argued that the law needs to be reformed and options for change are presented.
Prevalence and Distribution of Diffuse Idiopathic Skeletal Hyperostosis on Whole-spine Computed Tomography in Patients With Cervical Ossification of the Posterior Longitudinal Ligament
Authors: Nishimura Soraya , Nagoshi Narihito , Iwanami Akio , Takeuchi Ayano , Hirai Takashi , Yoshii Toshitaka , Takeuchi Kazuhiro , Mori Kanji , Yamada Tsuyoshi , Seki Shoji , Tsuji Takashi , Fujiyoshi Kanehiro , Furukawa Mitsuru , Wada Kanichiro , Koda Masao , Furuya Takeo , Matsuyama Yukihiro , Hasegawa Tomohiko , Takeshita Katsushi , Kimura Atsushi , Abematsu Masahiko , Haro Hirotaka , Ohba Tetsuro , Watanabe Masahiko , Katoh Hiroyuki , Watanabe Kei , Ozawa Hiroshi , Kanno Haruo , Imagama Shiro , Ando Kei , Fujibayashi Shunsuke , Yamazaki Masashi , Watanabe Kota , Matsumoto Morio , Nakamura Masaya , Okawa Atsushi , Kawaguchi Yoshiharu
Published: August 2018

Study Design:

This was a retrospective multicenter study.

Objective:

To clarify the progression of diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH) using whole-spine computed tomography in patients with cervical ossification of the posterior longitudinal ligament (OPLL).

Summary of Background Data:

DISH and cervical OPLL frequently coexist, and can cause ankylosing spinal fractures due to biomechanical changes and fragility of the affected vertebrae. The epidemiology and pathophysiology of DISH occurring with cervical OPLL are unclear.

Materials and Methods:

We used whole-spine computed tomography to determine the prevalence of DISH in 234 patients with a diagnosis of cervical OPLL based on plain cervical radiographs. We established a novel system for grading the progression of DISH based on a cluster analysis of the DISH distribution along the spine. We calculated the correlation coefficient between this grading system and patient age.

Results:

The prevalence of DISH in patients with cervical OPLL was 48.7%. Patients with DISH were significantly older than those who did not have DISH (67.3 vs. 63.4 y; P=0.005). Cluster analysis classified the DISH distribution into 6 regions, based on the levels affected: C2–C5, C3–T1, C6–T5, T3–10, T8–L2, and T12–S1. DISH was observed most frequently at T3–T10. We defined a system for grading DISH progression based on the number of regions involved, from grade 0 to 6. DISH was distributed at T3–T10 in >60% of the grade 1 patients, whereas most patients with DISH at the cervical or lumbar spine were grade 4 or 5. There was a weak but significant correlation between the DISH grade and patient age.

Conclusions:

DISH was present in nearly half of the patients with cervical OPLL. DISH was more common in older patients. DISH developed at the thoracic level and progressed into the cervical and/or lumbar spine with age.

Level of Evidence:

Level III.
Predictors of Outcome in Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty: A Long-term Observation Study in Primary Angle-closure Glaucoma After Laser Peripheral Iridotomy Compared With Primary Open-angle Glaucoma
Authors: Kurysheva Natalia I. , Lepeshkina Lyudmila V. , Shatalova Ekaterina O.
Published: August 2018

Purpose:

To evaluate the efficacy of selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) for patients with primary angle-closure glaucoma (PACG) following a YAG laser peripheral iridotomy (PI) in comparison with primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) and to assess the predictors of outcome of SLT.

Patients and Methods:

In retrospective study 68 patients with PACG after PI (68 eyes) and 74 POAG patients (74 eyes) were observed for 6 years. The effectiveness of SLT (20% reduction of intraocular pressure) was assessed using Kaplan-Meier survival analysis. The parameters for distinguishing the eyes with success and failure of SLT were detected by means of area under receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC). The predictive factors affecting SLT outcome were determined using Cox-regression analysis.

Results:

The success ratio was 87% in both groups in 1 year and dropped to 4% in PACG and to 6% in POAG in 6 years. Corneal hysteresis [odds ratio (ОR)=0.367, Р=0.005 for PACG, ОR=0.446, Р=0.008 for POAG] and age (OR=1.182, P=0.012 for PACG, OR=1.164, P=0.002 for POAG) were detected as the predictors of SLT outcome. In PACG pre-SLT anterior chamber depth was additional predictor (ОR=0.242, Р=0.001). The number of pre-SLT pressure-lowing medications was higher in the eyes with SLT failure (AUC, 0.794; P=0.0005 in PACG and AUC, 0.760; P=0.014 in POAG).

Conclusions:

One-year efficacy of SLT in POAG and PACG after PI was high, but it was reduced in long-term period. Corneal hysteresis, age, and number of pre-SLT hypotensive eye drops were significant prognostic factors for treatment success in both glaucoma forms. In PACG pre-SLT anterior chamber depth affected the SLT outcome.
Otopathology in the United States: History, Current Situation, and Future Perspectives
Authors: Monsanto Rafael da Costa , Pauna Henrique Furlan , Paparella Michael M. , Cureoglu Sebahattin
Published: August 2018

Human temporal bone studies have documented the pathophysiologic basis of many pathologic conditions and diseases affecting the ear, contributing to the development of specific clinical knowledge and pathology-oriented treatments. Researchers dedicated to the study of anatomy and histology of the temporal bone emanated from Europe to the United States during the first part of the 20th Century. The first otopathology laboratory was founded in the United States in 1924, at Johns Hopkins University; over time, the otopathology laboratories—considered by some authors as “gold mines” for studying ear diseases—became numerous and very prolific. However, today, only three of the temporal bone laboratories are still running and producing scientific knowledge to the Otology/Neurotology field: the ones at Harvard Medical School, University of Minnesota, and University of California. Molecular biologic assay techniques and new microscopy and computer equipment broadened the possibilities for temporal bone studies; however, the current funding for those laboratories are insufficient to cover the costs for processing and studying human temporal bones. The main objective of this study is to briefly describe the history, current situation, and future perspectives of the otopathology laboratories in the United States.
The Diagnostic Yield of Malignancy Comparing Cytology, FISH, and Molecular Analysis of Cell Free Cytology Brush Supernatant in Patients With Biliary Strictures Undergoing Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiography (ERC)
Authors: Kushnir Vladimir M. , Mullady Daniel K. , Das Koushik , Lang Gabriel , Hollander Thomas G. , Murad Faris M. , Jackson Sara A. , Toney Nicole A. , Finkelstein Sydney D. , Edmundowicz Steven A.
Published: August 2018

Background:

Routine cytology of biliary stricture brushings obtained during endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) has suboptimal sensitivity for malignancy. We compared the individual and combined ability of cytology, fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) analysis and PCR-based mutation profiling (MP) to detect malignancy in standard biliary brushings.

Methods:

We performed a prospective study of patients undergoing ERCP using histology or 1 year follow-up to determine patient outcomes. MP was performed on free-DNA from biliary brushing specimens using normally discarded supernatant fluid. MP examined KRAS point mutations and tumor suppressor gene associated loss of heterozygosity mutations at 10 genomic loci. FISH examined chromosome specific gains or losses.

Results:

A total of 101 patients were included in final analysis and 69% had malignancy. Cytology had 26% sensitivity and 100% specificity for malignancy. Using either FISH or MP in combination with cytology increased sensitivity to 44% and 56%, respectively. The combination of all 3 tests (cytology, FISH, and MP) had the highest sensitivity for malignancy (66%). There was no difference in the specificity of cytology, FISH or MP testing when examined alone or in combination. MP improved diagnostic yield of each procedure from 22% to 100%; FISH improved yield to 90%. MP detected 21 malignancies beyond that identified by cytology; FISH detected an additional 13. The combination of FISH and MP testing detected an additional 28 malignancies.

Conclusions:

Both MP and FISH are complimentary molecular tests that can significantly increase detection of biliary malignancies when used in combination with routine cytology of standard biliary brush specimens.
Do Patients With More Education Receive More Subsidized Dental Care? Evidence From a Natural Experiment Using the Introduction of a School Reform in Norway as an Instrumental Variable
Authors: Grytten Jostein , Skau Irene
Published: August 2018

Background:

In Norway, for several dental conditions, a substantial part of treatment costs are reimbursed by the National Insurance Scheme. Ideally, the probability of receiving subsidized dental care (SDC) should be independent of social determinants of health, such as education, so that dental services are accessible to everyone independent of their social status.

Objective:

The main objective of this study was to estimate the causal effect of education on the probability of receiving SDC in the adult Norwegian population.

Research Design:

During the period 1960–1972, all municipalities in Norway were required to increase the number of compulsory years of education from 7 to 9 years. This education reform was used to create exogenous variation in the education variable. Since municipalities implemented the reform at different times, we have both cross-sectional and time series variation in the reform instrument. Thus we were able to estimate the effect of education on the probability of receiving SDC by controlling for municipality fixed effects and trend variables.

Subjects:

This study included all Norwegian adults, born during the period of 1947–1958.

Measures:

Information about education (number of years), whether the individuals had received SDC, place of residence (municipality) was collected.

Results:

The probability of receiving SDC was found to increase by 2 percentage points per additional year of education.

Conclusion:

People with the most resources benefit the most from a universal welfare scheme that is addressed to reach everybody. We suggest providing information about the subsidy scheme in a way that is easily available and understandable to all individuals, independent of their level of education.
Paratesticular Fibrous Pseudotumor in Children: A Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors: Miscia Maria E. , Cecinati Valerio , Fusillo Mario , Persico Antonello , Lauriti Giuseppe , Lisi Gabriele , Lelli Chiesa Pierluigi
Published: August 2018

Background:

Paratesticular fibrous pseudotumor (PFP) is a rare benign tumor that can mimic malignant tumors; thus, radical orchiectomy was the standard treatment in the past.

Observation:

A 15-year-old boy came to our attention for a hard right inguinal swelling. An ultrasound showed a highly vascularized mass. The boy underwent a gonadal-sparing excision of the mass that was diagnosed to be a PFP. The patient recovered well, without recurrences at the follow-up.

Conclusions:

PFP is mostly asymptomatic, and its diagnosis is incidental. Only further 4 pediatric cases were reported in the literature. Our case confirms that gonadal-sparing surgery is an optimal treatment.
In Vitro Mesenchymal Progenitor Cell Expansion is a Predictor of Transplant-related Mortality and acute GvHD III-IV After Bone Marrow Transplantation in Univariate Analysis: A Large Single-Center Experience
Authors: Berger Massimo , Mareschi Katia , Castiglia Sara , Rustichelli Deborah , Mandese Alessandra , Migliore Enrica , Fagioli Franca
Published: August 2018

Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) are multipotent stem cells able to differentiate into mesenchymal origin tissue and support the growth of hematopoietic stem cells. In order to understand the role of MSCs infused in bone marrow grafts, 53 consecutive patients were analyzed for engraftment, acute and chronic graft-versus-host disease (GvHD), transplant-related mortality (TRM), relapse incidence, and overall survival. The MSC content was measured as MSC expansion at the second passage. When in vitro–expanded MSC (cumulative population doubling at second passage, cPDp2) values were stratified according to the median value (2.2-fold increase), the univariate analysis showed a significant difference in TRM (23% vs. 3.8%, P=0.05.) and in acute GvHD III-IV incidence (12% vs. 4%, P=0.04), while the multivariate analysis did not confirm its independent role. No clinical parameters in donors and recipients were identified as predictors of cPDp2 expansion. Our study suggests a role for short-term ex vivo–expanded MSCs in reduced aGVHD III-IV incidence and TRM in univariate analysis. A multicenter, larger study is warranted to confirm these data.
True Versus False Bacteremia in Infants and Children Less Than 3 Years of Age
Authors: Mannino Avila Elizabeth , Stucky Fisher Erin , Rhee Kyung
Published: August 2018

Objective

The objective of this study was to examine patient history as well as clinical and laboratory features associated with true bacteremia versus false bacteremia in previously healthy febrile children ages 0 to 36 months in the era of polyvalent conjugate pneumococcal immunization.

Methods

Using retrospective chart review, we examined history, physical examination, and laboratory characteristics associated with true and false bacteremia. We included subjects under 3 years old, with a positive blood culture obtained in the emergency department or clinic from July 2011 to July 2013, and fever defined as a temperature of greater than or equal to 100.4°F by history or examination. We excluded those with a previously known underlying disease process that could increase the risk for positive blood culture, for example, immunodeficiency, cancer, cystic fibrosis, or significant skin disorders such as severe eczema, as well as patients with any indwelling central line, shunt, or other implanted device, or recent hospitalization for a febrile illness.

Results

Thirty subjects (24%) had true bacteremia, and 97 (76%) had false bacteremia. In the multivariable logistic regression analysis, exposure to sick contacts (odds ratio, 0.1; 95% confidence interval, 0.01–0.6; P = 0.01) and increased hours to positive blood culture (odds ratio, 0.8; 95% confidence interval, 0.8–0.9; P < 0.001) remained significant factors associated with false bacteremia. Age, maximum reported temperature, and reported days of fever were not associated with true bacteremia.

Conclusions

We found that previously healthy children with true bacteremia are more likely to grow bacteria faster on blood culture and lack exposure to sick contacts than children with false bacteremia.
Comparison of 4 Pediatric Intraosseous Access Devices
Authors: Szarpak Lukasz , Ladny Jerzy R. , Dabrowski Marek , Ladny Michael , Smereka Jacek , Ahuja Sanchit , Ruetzler Kurt
Published: August 2018

Background

Obtaining intravascular access can be challenging or even impossible in several clinical situations. As an alternative, medications and fluids can be administered via the intraosseous (IO) route, which is a well-tolerated and established alternative, especially in the emergency setting.

Methods

Seventy-five novice physicians participated in this randomized simulation study. After a single educational session and 6 months without any clinical application, participants were asked to identify the correct puncture site and obtain IO access using 3 widely used mechanical devices (BIG Pediatric, Arrow EZ-IO, NIO Pediatric) and a manual device (Jamshidi needle) on a pediatric manikin and turkey bone, respectively.

Results

Sixty-eight participants correctly identified the puncture site and performed IO cannulations. First placement attempt success rate was similar with mechanical devices (NIO Pediatric, 100%; Arrow EZ-IO, 97%; and BIG Pediatric, 90%), whereas was only 43% using the manual Jamshidi device. Also, procedure time was much faster using mechanical devices (ranging between 18 and 23 seconds) compared with the manual Jamshidi device (34 seconds).

Conclusions

Although the efficacy of devices was demonstrated in simulated environment in novice users, further studies are needed to assess the efficacy and safety of devices in clinical comparative settings. With more experienced users, the success rate may differ considerably as compared with naive users.