bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) Protocol Enables Safe Same-Day Discharge After Alloplastic Breast Reconstruction
Authors: Dumestre Danielle O. , Redwood Jennifer , Webb Carmen E. , Temple-Oberle Claire
Published: March 2018

Background:

To compare enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) with traditional recovery after surgery (TRAS) for patients undergoing alloplastic breast reconstruction.

Methods:

A retrospective chart review of 2 patient groups (ERAS and TRAS) undergoing alloplastic breast reconstruction was performed. Data were collected from 2012 to 2013 (TRAS) and from 2013 to 2016 (ERAS). The ERAS protocol included day surgery, multimodal analgesia, and preoperative anti-emetic. The TRAS pathway involved overnight admission, narcotic-based analgesia, and no preoperative anti-emetic. Demographics, operative variables, and complications were compared between groups.

Results:

Seventy-eight ERAS patients and 78 TRAS patients were included. Length of stay was shorter for ERAS patients (0.38 nights ERAS and 1.45 nights TRAS; P < .001). The ERAS patients underwent significantly more bilateral surgery (80.8% ERAS and 55.1% TRAS; P < .001), immediate reconstruction (98.6% ERAS and 89.3% TRAS; P = .004), and had more implants versus expanders placed (66% [93/141] ERAS and 24.8% TRAS; P < .001). There were no differences in the number of post-operative emergency department visits (8% ERAS and 14% TRAS; P = .2) and readmissions (8% ERAS and 3.8% TRAS; P = .3) between the groups. There was no difference in the rate of hematoma (0.7% ERAS and 0% TRAS; P = .35), infection requiring explantation (1.4% ERAS and 0.8% TRAS; P = .65), infection requiring outpatient IV antibiotics (1.4% ERAS and 2.5% TRAS; P = .53), and infection requiring IV antibiotics and readmission (2.1% ERAS and 1.7% TRAS; P = .78) between the groups. There were no differences in the number of minor complications (22% ERAS and 23% TRAS; P = .82).

Conclusion:

The ERAS protocol for alloplastic breast reconstruction is safe, without increased readmission or complication rates compared to TRAS, and significantly decreased length of stay.
Providers’ Perceptions of Barriers to Optimal Communication With Patients During the Postcolonoscopy Experience
Authors: Hyams Travis , Curbow Barbara , Christie Juliette , Mueller Nora , King-Marshall Evelyn , Sultan Shahnaz , George Thomas J
Published: March 2018

Introduction:

Colonoscopy screening is an effective method of detecting and preventing colorectal cancer. Standard procedure for most colonoscopies (98%) is to use conscious sedation, which can cause short-term cognitive impairment postprocedure, including communication difficulties. In this study, we explored providers’ (gastroenterology doctors and nurses) perceptions of the barriers to optimal communication with patients immediately following colonoscopy.

Methods:

We conducted interviews with 61 providers across 5 clinical configurations. Interviews were transcribed and coded with NVivo version 11 software.

Results:

Themes emerged regarding barriers to optimal provider–patient communication postcolonoscopy: patient barriers (sedation and patient characteristics), caregiver barriers, and system characteristics.

Conclusions:

Providers’ perceived barriers to communication are an important topic to study. They endorsed, in particular, interventions that target the postcolonoscopy time frame when patients may still be sedated, but providers must convey important discharge and follow-up instructions.
Patients with systemic sclerosis-associated pulmonary arterial hypertension express a genomic signature distinct from patients with interstitial lung disease
Authors: Moll Matthew , Christmann Romy B , Zhang Yuqing , Whitfield Michael L , Wang Yu Mei , Rice Lisa , Stratton Eric , Lafyatis Robert , Farber Harrison W
Published: March 2018

Objective:

Pulmonary arterial hypertension and interstitial lung disease are major causes of mortality in systemic sclerosis. We used a previously identified microarray biomarker to determine whether systemic sclerosis-pulmonary arterial hypertension and systemic sclerosis-interstitial lung disease patients demonstrate distinct gene expression profiles.

Methods:

Peripheral blood mononuclear cells were collected from healthy controls ( n = 10), systemic sclerosis patients without pulmonary hypertension (systemic sclerosis-no pulmonary arterial hypertension, n = 39), and systemic sclerosis-pulmonary arterial hypertension patients ( n = 21; mean pulmonary arterial pressure ≥25, pulmonary capillary wedge pressure ≤15, and pulmonary vascular resistance ≥3 Wood units) diagnosed by right heart catheterization. Systemic sclerosis-interstitial lung disease patients were defined as those with evidence of fibrosis on chest computed tomography and significant restriction (forced vital capacity <70% predicted, n = 11). Systemic sclerosis-pulmonary arterial hypertension biomarker included 69 genes selected by unbiased statistical screening of three publicly available microarray studies. RNA levels were measured by NanoString Technologies. Gene expression levels that were significantly correlated with pulmonary arterial hypertension (multiple statistical measures) were chosen as inputs into a forward selection logistic regression model.

Results:

When interstitial lung disease patients were included ( n = 64), four genes (S100P, CD8B1, CCL2, and TIMP1) and male sex predicted pulmonary arterial hypertension with a high level of accuracy (area under the curve = 0.83). Without interstitial lung disease patients ( n = 53), two genes (THBS1 and CD8B1) and male sex predicted pulmonary arterial hypertension with a high level of accuracy (area under the curve = 0.80). When examining systemic sclerosis patients with borderline elevated pulmonary pressures (mean pulmonary arterial pressure = 21–24 mmHg), gene expression changes closely resembled the systemic sclerosis-pulmonary arterial hypertension group, except for THBS1.

Conclusion:

Systemic sclerosis-pulmonary arterial hypertension and systemic sclerosis-interstitial lung disease have similar but distinct gene expression profiles. Many gene expression changes occur early in the disease course, potentially allowing early detection. THBS1 appears to be an important mediator in the development of pulmonary arterial hypertension-predominant phenotype. Further prospective investigation is warranted.
Fe-, Fe,Mn- and Fe,Mg-chlorite: a genetic linkage to W, (Cu,Mo) mineralization in the magmatic-hydrothermal system at Borralha, northern Portugal
Authors: Bobos I. , Noronha F. , Mateus A.
Published: March 2018

A genetic linkage between W, (Cu, Mo)-mineralization and chlorite minerals, and the discrimination of different mineralization events in the magmatic-hydrothermal system of Borralha, northern Portugal, is discussed on the basis of textural relationships, crystal chemistry and stable isotopic data obtained from chlorite. Chlorite minerals were identified in assemblages with quartz, feldspars, tungstates and sulfides. X-ray diffraction studies of selected chlorite minerals shows a trioctahedral structural type. Electron probe micro-analyses identified four different compositions and associations: (1) Fe,Mn-chlorite with scheelite I; (2) Fe-chlorite with wolframite + scheelite II ± sulfide; (3) Fe,Mg-chlorite with molybdenite + bismuthinite; and (4) Mg,Fe-chlorite with chalcopyrite. The composition of Fe-chlorite (Al3.01Fe3+0.25Fe2+7.95Mn0.26Mg0.19)11.66(Si5.44Al2.56)8O20(OH)8corresponds to daphnite and Fe,Mn-chlorite (Al2.69Fe3+0.02Fe2+7.54Mn1.08Mg0.62)11.89(Si5.31Al2.68)4O20(OH)8to a mixed composition between daphnite and amesite. The Fe,Mg-chlorite (Al2.89Fe3+0.24Fe2+6.42Mn0.21Mg2.08)11.84(Si5.31Al2.79)8F0.31O20(OH)8corresponds to ripidolite and Mg,Fe-chlorite (Al2.63Fe3+0.37Fe2+1.72Mn0.01Mg6.40Ca0.26)11.39(Si6.02Al1.98)8O20(OH)8to pychnochlorite.

Chlorite geothermometry estimates a temperature for Fe,Mn-chlorite (scheelite I) from 400°C to 500°C, for Fe-chlorite (Mn-rich wolframite + scheelite II ± sulfide) from 250 to 350°C, for Fe,Mg-chlorite (Mo-mineralization) from 200°C to 250°C and for Mg,Fe-chlorite at ~150°C. Oxygen isotopes (V-SMOW) yielded values of +3.8 (1σ) (Fe-chlorite), +6.91 (1σ) (Fe,Mn-chlorite) and +1.5 (1σ) (Fe,Mg-chlorite). The calculated δ18OFof Fe- and Fe,Mg-chlorite is ~+3.75 (1σ) and +1.45 (1σ) for the mineralizing fluid, whereas for Fe,Mn-chlorite it is +8.17 (1σ). The δ18O data obtained from quartz in W- and Mo-mineralization yielded values of +12.6 and +11.4 (1σ), whereas for adularia δ18O is about +10 (1σ). These estimates allow us to conclude that the Fe,Mn-chlorite crystallized from a magmatic-hydrothermal fluid, whereas the Fe- and Fe,Mg-chlorite quartz and adularia resulted from a mixed contribution between meteoric and magmatic-hydrothermal fluid.
Mechanisms of resistance to EZH2 inhibitors in diffuse large B-cell lymphomas
Authors: Bisserier Malik , Wajapeyee Narendra
Published: March 2018

Key Points

Resistance to EZH2 inhibitors occurs due to the activation of survival pathways and acquired EZH2 mutations that prevent drug binding. Resistance mechanisms for different EZH2 inhibitors varies. Thus, cells resistant to 1 EZH2 inhibitor are sensitive to other inhibitors.
Preclinical evaluation of NUDT15-guided thiopurine therapy and its effects on toxicity and antileukemic efficacy
Authors: Nishii Rina , Moriyama Takaya , Janke Laura J. , Yang Wenjian , Suiter Chase C. , Lin Ting-Nien , Li Lie , Kihira Kentaro , Toyoda Hidemi , Hofmann Ute , Schwab Matthias , Takagi Masatoshi , Morio Tomohiro , Manabe Atsushi , Kham Shirley , Jiang Nan , Rabin Karen R. , Kato Motohiro , Koh Katsuyoshi , Yeoh Allen Eng-Juh , Hori Hiroki , Yang Jun J.
Published: March 2018

Key Points

We established a Nudt15 knockout mouse model with which to evaluate individualized thiopurine therapy. Preemptive NUDT15 genotype–guided thiopurine dosing can effectively prevent drug toxicity without compromising antileukemic efficacy.
The identification of fibrosis-driving myofibroblast precursors reveals new therapeutic avenues in myelofibrosis
Authors: Kramann Rafael , Schneider Rebekka K.
Published: March 2018

Myofibroblasts are fibrosis-driving cells and are well characterized in solid organ fibrosis, but their role and cellular origin in bone marrow fibrosis remains obscure. Recent work has demonstrated that Gli1+ and LepR+ mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) are progenitors of fibrosis-causing myofibroblasts in the bone marrow. Genetic ablation of Gli1+ MSCs or pharmacologic targeting of hedgehog (Hh)-Gli signaling ameliorated fibrosis in mouse models of myelofibrosis (MF). Moreover, pharmacologic or genetic intervention in platelet-derived growth factor receptor α (Pdgfrα) signaling in Lepr+ stromal cells suppressed their expansion and ameliorated MF. Improved understanding of cellular and molecular mechanisms in the hematopoietic stem cell niche that govern the transition of MSCs to myofibroblasts and myofibroblast expansion in MF has led to new paradigms in the pathogenesis and treatment of MF. Here, we highlight the central role of malignant hematopoietic clone-derived megakaryocytes in reprogramming the hematopoietic stem cell niche in MF with potential detrimental consequences for hematopoietic reconstitution after allogenic stem cell transplantation, so far the only therapeutic approach in MF considered to be curative. We and others have reported that targeting Hh-Gli signaling is a therapeutic strategy in solid organ fibrosis. Data indicate that targeting Gli proteins directly inhibits Gli1+ cell proliferation and myofibroblast differentiation, which results in reduced fibrosis severity and improved organ function. Although canonical Hh inhibition (eg, smoothened [Smo] inhibition) failed to improve pulmonary fibrosis, kidney fibrosis, or MF, the direct inhibition of Gli proteins ameliorated fibrosis. Therefore, targeting Gli proteins directly might be an interesting and novel therapeutic approach in MF.
Wavelet-crosscorrelation-based interferometric redatuming in 4D seismic
Authors: Zhao Yang , Li Weichang
Published: March 2018

Interferometric virtual source (VS) redatuming crosscorrelates downgoing waves with the corresponding upgoing waves to convert records from surface-source gathers to virtual gathers at the buried receiver locations. The assumption is that the VS records show the reduced effects of overburden complexity and therefore provide improved seismic repeatability and image quality. In practice, however, the repeatability and quality of the redatumed data can be degraded by one-sided illumination and inadequate preprocessing. In the presence of complex near-surface structure for land redatuming, the intricate shallow structure and highly variable weathering layers introduce surface multiples, ground-roll/scattering noise, and interference among different wave modes that additionally contaminates the down- and upgoing wavefields. To address these issues, we have developed a new interferometric redatuming method based on crosscorrelation in the wavelet domain. Specifically, by transforming time-offset data into the local time-scale (TS) and local TS-wavenumber domains, we have designed and applied filters on the amplitude of the cross spectra in each domain to suppress the aforementioned artifacts and noise, while maintaining accurate kinematic information by retaining the original phase spectra. The new procedure involves forward wavelet transform of the source records, crosscorrelating the wavelet coefficients, filtering in the corresponding domains, and then inverse wavelet transformation to produce the VS records. Components associated with scattering noise and ground roll can be effectively suppressed because our designed filters tackle their features accurately in the local TS and local TS-wavenumber domains, respectively. We tested the method on data from 13 time-lapse surveys that included a significant repeatability problem across a 17-month survey gap, and we compared the results with results from the conventional VS methods. Our VS method produced the best improvement in imaging and repeatability, a positive step forward for land seismic monitoring.
Impact of GI Tumor Board on Patient Management and Adherence to Guidelines
Authors: AlFarhan Haneen A. , Algwaiz Ghada F. , Alzahrani Hajer A. , Alsuhaibani Roaa S. , Alolayan Ashwaq , Abdelhafiz Nafisa , Ali Yosra , Boghdadly Sami , Jazieh Abdul Rahman
Published: March 2018

Purpose

As the burden of cancer on the population and the health care system continues to increase with more complicated treatment options, the need for multidisciplinary teams to be as efficient as possible becomes more vital. Our study aimed to evaluate the consistency of GI Tumor Board (GI TB) recommendations with international guidelines, the adherence of physicians involved in patient care to TB recommendations, and the impact on the management of patients.

Methods

A prospective cohort study was conducted from January to June 2016 at our institution, which is a major tertiary hospital that provides comprehensive cancer care. All cases presented at the GI TB during this period were included. Data regarding adherence to National Comprehensive Cancer Network guidelines, adherence to TB recommendations, and changes made to the management of patients were collected weekly from the GI TB in a data collection form.

Results

Of the 104 patients included, 57 (55%) were males and the median age was 58 (16 to 85) years. Colorectal cancer was the most common diagnosis, in 65 patients (63%). Nearly one-half of cases (45%) were stage IV cancers. Starting new treatment was recommended for 72 patients (69%). Further investigations were requested for 15 patients (14%). For imaging, 24 recommendations (23%) were made. Adherence to National Comprehensive Cancer Network guidelines was observed in 97% of total recommendations. New findings were found in pathology (11%), radiology (13%), and staging (4%). Management plans were changed in 37 cases (36%). Over a 3-month period after presentation to the GI TB, most of the recommendations (87%) were performed.

Conclusion

A multidisciplinary tumor board enhances the adherence to guidelines and has an impact on patient management in approximately one-third of patients. Among physicians, adherence to recommendations of the TB was high.
IV steroids during long episodes of Kleine-Levin syndrome
Authors: Léotard Antoine , Groos Elisabeth , Chaumereuil Charlotte , Peter-Derex Laure , Rossetti Andrea O. , Leu-Semenescu Smaranda , Arnulf Isabelle
Published: March 2018

Objective

To retrospectively compare the benefits (episode cessation) and risks of IV methylprednisolone (IV-MP) vs abstention during prolonged Kleine-Levin syndrome (KLS) episodes.

Methods

A total of 26 patients with KLS received 1 g/d IV-MP for 3 days during 1 to 6 episodes each (totaling 43 IV-MP sessions). The change of episode duration with IV-MP (vs previous episode duration) was compared with the change duration between 2 consecutive episodes in 48 untreated patients matched for age, sex, age at KLS onset, number of episodes, and disease duration (more treated than untreated patients had long episodes).

Results

Eleven patients (42.3%) had an episode that was at least 1 week shorter than the preceding one when they received IV-MP therapy, whereas shorter episodes were significantly less frequent (10.4%) in the untreated group. This benefit was more marked (65.5% responders, 12 fewer days in an episode vs 0 days in the untreated patients) when IV-MP was infused before the 10th day of the episode. Mild, transient adverse effects (insomnia, muscle pain, nervousness/restlessness, but no manic switching) were reported by 61.3% of patients. No specific responder profile was identified.

Conclusion

In this open-labeled, naturalistic study, early IV-MP (following the protocol for multiple sclerosis relapses) had a good benefit/risk ratio during KLS episodes in patients with long episodes (with half of the patients having an early cessation of episodes).

Classification of evidence

This study provides Class IV evidence that for patients with long episodes of KLS, IV steroids decrease the duration of KLS episodes.
Cerebellar volume as an imaging marker of development in infants with tuberous sclerosis complex
Authors: Srivastava Siddharth , Prohl Anna K. , Scherrer Benoit , Kapur Kush , Krueger Darcy A. , Warfield Simon K. , Sahin Mustafa ,   On behalf of the TACERN Study Group
Published: March 2018

Objective

In this cohort analysis, we studied 1-year-old infants with tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC), correlating volumes of cerebellar structures with neurodevelopmental measures.

Methods

We analyzed data from a prospective biomarker study in infants with TSC (ClinicalTrials.govNCT01780441). We included participants aged 12 months with an identified mutation of TSC1 or TSC2. Using MRI segmentation performed with the PSTAPLE algorithm, we measured relative volumes (structure volume divided by intracranial contents volume) of the following structures: right/left cerebellar white matter, right/left cerebellar exterior, vermal lobules I–V, vermal lobules VI–VII, and vermal lobules VIII–X. We correlated relative volumes to Mullen Scales of Early Learning (MSEL) scores.

Results

There were 70 participants (mean age 1.03 [0.11] years): n = 11 had a TSC1 mutation; n = 59 had a TSC2 mutation. For patients with TSC2 mutation, for every percentage increase in total cerebellar volume, there was an approximate 10-point increase in MSEL composite score (β = 10.47 [95% confidence interval 5.67, 15.27], p < 0.001). For patients with TSC1 mutation, the relationship between cerebellar volume and MSEL composite score was not statistically significant (β = −10.88 [95% confidence interval −22.16, 0.41], p = 0.06). For patients with TSC2 mutation, there were positive slopes when regressing expressive language and visual reception skills with volumes of nearly all cerebellar structures (p ≤ 0.29); there were also positive slopes when regressing receptive language skills, gross motor skills, and fine motor skills with volumes of cerebellar right/left exterior (p ≤ 0.014).

Conclusions

Cerebellar volume loss—perhaps reflecting Purkinje cell degeneration—may predict neurodevelopmental severity in patients with TSC2 mutations.
White matter abnormalities and cognition in patients with conflicting diagnoses and CSF profiles
Authors: Lindemer Emily R. , Greve Douglas N. , Fischl Bruce , Salat David H. , Gomez-Isla Teresa
Published: March 2018

Objective

To determine whether white matter changes influence progression of cognitive decline in individuals with clinically diagnosed Alzheimer disease (AD) and differing biomarker profiles.

Methods

Two hundred thirty-six individuals from the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative database with clinical diagnoses of cognitively normal older adult (older controls [OCs]), mild cognitive impairment, and AD were studied. Support vector machine experiments were first performed to determine the utility of various biomarkers for classifying individuals by clinical diagnosis. General linear models were implemented to assess the relationships between CSF measures of β-amyloid 1–42, phosphorylated tau181p, and MRI-based white matter signal abnormality (WMSA) volumes and cognitive decline. Analyses were performed across all patients as well as within subgroups of individuals that were defined by clinical cutoff points for both CSF measures.

Results

CSF biomarkers alone classified individuals with AD vs OCs with 82% accuracy, and the addition of WMSA did not enhance this. Both CSF biomarkers as well as WMSA volume significantly contributed to predicting cognitive decline in executive and memory domains when assessed across all 236 individuals. In individuals with pathologic levels of both CSF biomarkers, WMSA only significantly contributed to models of future executive function decline. In individuals with subpathologic CSF biomarker levels (levels similar to those in OC individuals), WMSA significantly contributed to prediction of memory decline and were the sole significant predictor of executive function decline.

Conclusions

WMSA hold additional predictive power regarding cognitive progression in older individuals and are most effective as biomarkers in individuals who are cognitively impaired but do not fit the expected CSF biomarker profile of AD.
Efficacy of Exercise and Testosterone to Mitigate Atrophic Cardiovascular Remodeling
Authors: SCOTT JESSICA M. , MARTIN DAVID , PLOUTZ-SNYDER ROBERT , DOWNS MEGHAN , DILLON E. LICHAR , SHEFFIELD-MOORE MELINDA , URBAN RANDALL J. , PLOUTZ-SNYDER LORI L.
Published: March 2018

Purpose

Early and consistent evaluation of cardiac morphology and function throughout an atrophic stimulus is critically important for the design and optimization of interventions. This randomized controlled trial was designed 1) to characterize the time course of unloading-induced morphofunctional remodeling and 2) to examine the effects of exercise with and without low-dose testosterone supplementation on cardiac biomarker, structural, and functional parameters during unloading.

Methods

Twenty-six subjects completed 70 d of head-down tilt bed rest (BR): 9 were randomized to exercise training (Ex), 8 to EX and low-dose testosterone (ExT), and 9 remained sedentary (CONT). Exercise consisted of high-intensity, continuous, and resistance exercise. Cardiac morphology (left ventricular mass [LVM]) and mechanics (longitudinal, radial, and circumferential strain and twist), cardiovascular biomarkers, and cardiorespiratory fitness (V˙O2peak) were assessed before, during, and after BR.

Results

Sedentary BR resulted in a progressive decline in LVM, longitudinal, radial, and circumferential strain in CONT, whereas Ex and ExT mitigated decreases in LVM and function. Twist was increased throughout BR in sedentary BR, whereas after an initial increase at BR7, there were no further changes in twist in Ex and ExT. HDL cholesterol was significantly decreased in all groups compared with pre-BR (P < 0.007). There were no significant changes in other cardiovascular biomarkers. Change in twist was significantly related to change in V˙O2max (R = 0.68, P < 0.01).

Conclusion

An integrated approach with evaluation of cardiac morphology, mechanics, V˙O2peak, and biomarkers provides extensive phenotyping of cardiovascular atrophic remodeling. Exercise training and exercise training with low-dose testosterone supplementation abrogates atrophic remodeling.
Identification and characterization of host proteins bound to dengue virus 3′ UTR reveal an antiviral role for quaking proteins
Authors: Liao Kuo-Chieh , Chuo Vanessa , Ng Wy Ching , Neo Suat Peng , Pompon Julien , Gunaratne Jayantha , Ooi Eng Eong , Garcia-Blanco Mariano A.
Published: March 2018

The four dengue viruses (DENV1-4) are rapidly reemerging infectious RNA viruses. These positive-strand viral genomes contain structured 3′ untranslated regions (UTRs) that interact with various host RNA binding proteins (RBPs). These RBPs are functionally important in viral replication, pathogenesis, and defense against host immune mechanisms. Here, we combined RNA chromatography and quantitative mass spectrometry to identify proteins interacting with DENV1-4 3′ UTRs. As expected, RBPs displayed distinct binding specificity. Among them, we focused on quaking (QKI) because of its preference for the DENV4 3′ UTR (DENV-4/SG/06K2270DK1/2005). RNA immunoprecipitation experiments demonstrated that QKI interacted with DENV4 genomes in infected cells. Moreover, QKI depletion enhanced infectious particle production of DENV4. On the contrary, QKI did not interact with DENV2 3′ UTR, and DENV2 replication was not affected consistently by QKI depletion. Next, we mapped the QKI interaction site and identified a QKI response element (QRE) in DENV4 3′ UTR. Interestingly, removal of QRE from DENV4 3′ UTR abolished this interaction and increased DENV4 viral particle production. Introduction of the QRE to DENV2 3′ UTR led to QKI binding and reduced DENV2 infectious particle production. Finally, reporter assays suggest that QKI reduced translation efficiency of viral RNA. Our work describes a novel function of QKI in restricting viral replication.
Prevalence and antimicrobial susceptibility of Enterococcus spp. in ready-to-eat salads (dips), the environment and the personnel of a salad processing plant in Northern Greece
Authors: SERGELIDIS D , ABRAHIM A , ANAGNOSTOU V , PAPA A , PAPADOPOULOS Th.
Published: March 2018

A total of 225 samples from the dips (cheese, roe, egg plant and tzatziki dip), the environment and the handlers of a salad manufacturing plant in Northern Greece were examined for the presence and antibiotic susceptibility of Entervcocccus spp. Enterococcus faecium was the isolated species from 12% of the samples. 38.1% and 15% of egg plant and cheese dip samples were positive, respectively. Among the dip ingredients, 30% of mayonnaise, 20% of feta cheese and 10% of myzithra were positive. Positive were, also, 8.6 % of the environmental samples, 20% from handlers' skirts, 20% from handlers' gloves and 16.7% from their nasal cavity. All isolates were sensitive to glycopeptides (vancomycin and teicoplanin). Isolates from handlers' nasal cavities were resistant to penicillin and ampicillin, while one of them was, also, resistant to chloramphenicol. All isolates from the environment, the dips and their ingredients were susceptible to these three antibiotics, but they presented resistance to more than 3 antibiotic categories. Ready-to-eat foods may be potential source of contamination to humans of multidrug resistant enterococci. Further research is needed to elucidate their epidemiology in these foods.
Equine colitis Χ
Authors: DIAKAKIS (Ν. ΔΙΑΚΑΚΗΣ) N.
Published: March 2018

Colitis Χ is an acute or peracute colitis of unknown origin, which is characterized by a sudden, watery diarrhea that is usually accompanied by symptoms of hypovolemic shock and leads to death in less than 24 hours. Although colitis X has been studied extensively, the causative factor has not been clarified yet and prognosis is average to poor, as mortality could reach 90-100%. Still, mortality rate could fall to 75%, if treatment is imminent and aggressive. Occasionally the disease has been attributed to viruses, parasites, bacteria, use of antibiotics and sulfonamides and heavy metal poisoning. Stress is considered as an aggravatingfactor for colitis X. The clinical signs are similar to those described for other forms of acute- peracute colitis. Diarrhea and abdominal pain constitute the main discoveries, but at the same time tachykardia, tachypnea, weak pulse, congested or cyanotic mucous membranes and increased capillary refill time are noted. In most cases, colitis X leads to death between 4 to 14 hours. As far as the laboratory findings are concerned, the most important finding is the leucopenia, initially characterized by neutropenia, which might evolve in neutrophilia. Moreover, haemoconcentration is noted with an increase in the packed cell volume, whilst thetotal proteins are initially increased, but changes into a lower than normal value. The most significant laboratory finding in colitis X is the increase of total Cortisol concentration in blood plasma.Histopathologically, the mucosa of the large colon is hemorrhagic, necrotic and covered with fibrohemorrhagic exudate, while the submucosa, the muscular tunic and the local lymphonodes are edematous. The treatment of colitis X should be dire and aggressive, including administration of fluids, electrolytes and blood plasma, anti-inflammatory and analgesic drugs and antibiotics. Preventing dehydration is of paramount importance. The applicationof nutritional measures is important. More specifically, parenteral or normal feeding could be used to address the exacerbated metabolism of the sick horse. Finally, the use of probiotics is considered beneficial in the restoration of the normal intestinal flora. The most common probiotics contain Lactobacillus spp. and Bifidobacterium spp.
Preputial reconstruction and urethrostomy after subtotal penile amputation in a dog
Authors: KATAYAMA M , SEKI T , TAKAHIRA A
Published: March 2018

A 7-year-old, 4.2-kg intact male toy poodle was presented to the referring veterinarian with a persistent penile erection and secondary paraphimosis. A full-thickness longitudinal incision was made in the prepuce to release strangulation by the preputial orifice. Castration was also performed. However, the persistent erection did not resolve, which suggested idiopathic priapism. Although prescrotal or scrotal urethrostomy was considered, these procedures commonly have complications, such as severe hemorrhage, stricture of the urethral opening, urine scalding, and abnormal cosmetic appearance. Therefore, preputial reconstruction and urethrostomy were performed following amputation of the penis. A V-Y skin plasty was performed to retract the prepuce caudally. Two triangles of preputial skin at the middle of the prepuce were removed to shorten the prepuce. A 6-Fr catheter was kept in place for 9 days after surgery to prevent stricture formation and to divert urine during initial healing. After surgery, the dog was able to urinate through the natural preputial orifice, showing no urine scalding of the urethrostomy site. Six months after surgery, nomajor complications were observed. The owner was satisfied with the functional and cosmetic outcome.
Microwave disinfection as a treatment for blackwater from dewatered sludge
Authors: Sellgren Katelyn L , Gregory Christopher W , Klem Ethan J.D. , Piascik Jeffrey R. , Stoner Brian R.
Published: March 2018

Background: Fast and efficient on-site treatment of blackwater, rejected from the dewatering process, can decrease the costs associated with disposal of fecal sludge removed from pit latrines by reducing the volume of sludge transported to the disposal site.

Methods: In this study, we examine the potential use of low cost consumer microwave units for disinfecting pathogen-rich blackwater. Domestic bench top microwave units were modified to allow flow through and re-circulation of blackwater. Energy, throughput, and disinfection characteristics related to microwaves are studied and compared to conventional thermal heating. A custom flow through stack of 5 microwaves was designed and used to examine the feasibility of single pass, high throughput application.

Results and Conclusions: The results show microwave energy does not play a role in the disinfection of blackwater. The benefits of a microwave disinfection system are shown to be high energy efficiency, compact size, and cost efficiency.
HEMATOLOGIC AND BIOCHEMICAL PARAMETERS WITH SILAGE FEEDIN, CANNED BY SILOSTAN AND LAXIL
Authors: Тагиров Хамит , Tagirov Khamit , Исхаков Ришат , Iskhakov Rishat , Фисенко Наталья , Fisenko Natal'y
Published: March 2018

The purpose of this research is to increase the meat productivity of bull-calves of black-motley breed at the expense of introduction in a diet of silage, canned luxilon and Cilostazol. Hematological, biochemical and other indicators are significantly influenced not only by the physiological state of the patient (age, pregnancy, productivity), but also by the conditions of feeding, maintenance, exploitation, and habitat. However, the picture of the blood retains its individual and specific features. Blood is one of the liquid media of the body, through which the bodies, tissues and cells are replenished with the necessary substances for life (vitamins, macro - and microelements, etc.), as well as the excretion of metabolic products. Changes in the morphological and biochemical composition of the blood – an indicator of the developing latent stages of the body's disease due to metabolic disorders. The article presents the results of studies on the effect of silage from alfalfa harvested preservatives elastan and laxil on hematological parameters of blood of calves of black-motley breed. It is established that hematological parameters of bull blood throughout the period of scientific and economic experience in all groups of experimental animals were within physiological norm and in its borders changed accordingly with metabolism in an organism and intensity of growth of animals. The content of red blood cells increases by 6.2 and 7.3%, hemoglobin-by 4.3 and 6.2%, total protein-by 2.8 and 5.7%, calcium – by 10.3 and 14.9%, phosphorus-by 3.1 and 4.9%. Overall hematological parameters in the course of the experiment in all groups of experimental calves were within the physiological norm, and its boundaries have been changed accordingly with the metabolism in the body and intensity of growth of animals.
The Experience of Participation in International Student Projects
Authors: Калижанова Анна , Kalizhanova Anna
Published: March 2018

This article describes the university students’ experience in one International Student Project “My city and me,” organized by a United Statesbased non-governmental International Education and Resource Network or iEARN that united 26 000 teachers and about 2 000 000 students from 140 countries for the work on over 3000 projects in 30 different languages. The described project aimed to introduce the participants’ hometown to the international learners with the help of technologies, but the project’s flow and outcomes resulted in the adequate approach to the choice of software for better realization of students’ creativity and further development of their communicative skills.” The article provides an author’s approaches regarding the choice of all necessary technologies and applications for the successful delivery of the project.
Microstructure evolution of 20Cr steel spider during cold forging using cellular automaton method
Authors: Wei Kun Xia , Niu Ling , Wei Wei , Du Qing Bo , Alexandrov Igor V. , Hu Jing
Published: March 2018

The microstructure evolution of 20Cr steel spider in the cold forging process was simulated and analyzed by CA method, and verified by the experimental results. The CA simulation results show that the grain size becomes smaller with an increase of forging reduction. When the reduction is 60%, the grain size is the smallest. After that, the microstructure is inhomogeneous. At the same forging reduction, the microhardness at the root of the pin is higher than that at the head of the pin. It is well agreed with the distribution of the effective strain. The CA results agree well with the experimental data in terms of microstructure evolution and microhardness distribution, suggesting that the CA model is a reliable numerical approach for predicting microstructure evolution during cold forging for 20Cr steel spider.
Contents
Authors: AMS Editorial
Published: March 2018

Research papers

Technical paper
Spotkania z Zagładą w Polsce
Authors: Ambrosewicz‑Jacobs Jolanta
Published: March 2018

Encounters with the Holocaust in Poland Repressed memories remain active and their outcomes bring undesirable effects for education about the Holocaust. How can facts and events that have been repressed or dismissed from the individual and collective memory be reintegratedinto social consciousness? When will the memory of the Holocaust in Poland become a shared, collective legacy for Poles? How can education about the Holocaust deal sensitively with the Polish national sense of martyrdom? This remains a crucial question for Polish society. Can memorial sites, museums, historians, writers, educational institutions and civic organizations in post‑communist Poland create space where the voice of Jewish victims and second and third generations can be heard and where communities of memory can integrate? Or will Polish society continue to be characterized by rivalry between competing memories? These questions form the foundation of my empirical studies and trigger interest in the evaluation of existing educational programs. A qualitative research, namely a participant observation of the Forum for Dialogue among the Nations program ‘School of Dialogue’ in Warsaw, will attempt to answer the above questions.
W stronę Czarnobyla
Authors: Hoffmann Marta
Published: March 2018

Towards Tchernobyl. Is Postmemory a Driving Force for Medicalization or Vice Versa? The article poses a question about relations between practices of medicalization and postmemory ones. The introduction includes the main similarities between two concepts mentioned above in order to explain putting them together within the article. First chapter briefly characterises the concept of medicalization in social science. Another one describes the Chernobyl catastrophe and the way its inhabitants from younger generations „remember” it. Then, the main aspects of „postmemory” are characterised such as epistemological, practical, artistic and political one. The third chapter illustrates thesis that postmemory is the main driving force for medicalization processes. The fourth reverses it and argues that medicalization itself could be the main reason for postmemory practices. Summary tries to answer the question posed in the title.
Syberia w pamięci zesłańców i ich dzieci
Authors: Abassy Małgorzata
Published: March 2018

Syberia in the Memories of the Polish Exiles. Case Study of the Zhukovsky Family

The story of the exiles of the Zhukovsky family is presented in the paper. Analyses were based on interviews with Dagmara, the daughter, two documentaries: On memory paths and Crust of Bread, and a manuscript written on the basis of Danuta and Bogusław recollections by Dagmara. Hypotheses of the paper were the following: a story of a family is the history of a nation. There is a parallel between historical events and an individual’s fate. The ancestors, need to tell one’s story and the descendants’ need to hear it are reciprocal ones and can be interpreted as a cultural mechanism of incorporation new texts into a culture memory. On an individual level it gives rise to the feeling of dignity and power. Marianne Hirsch’s theory of post‑memory and Yury Lotman’s concept of ‘remembering – forgetting’ mechanism were utilized to present and interpret memories of Boguslav and Danuta Zhukovsky and their descendant – Dagmara. The reasons for reaching into the past and coming back to Syberia were also analysed.
The Digs in the Upper town of San Benedetto Del Tronto (2010-2014)
Authors: Nora Lucentini  , Serena De Cesare  , Michele Massoni
Published: March 2018

The safety and redevelopment works on the Upper Town of San Benedetto del Tronto, carried out between 2010 and 2014, allowed for the discovery of an interesting slice of life of the city during the Roman and medieval period. Even if it is still being studied, these discoveries have given the city its millennial history back which has its roots right in the Roman era.
Buckling down on torus fractures: Has evolving evidence affected practice?
Authors: Williams B. A. , Alvarado C. A. , Montoya-Williams D. C. , Matthias R. C. , Blakemore L. C.
Published: March 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the management of paediatric torus fractures of the distal forearm in current practice in light of growing evidence supporting a ‘minimalist’ approach with splint immobilization and limited follow-up. We hypothesized that ‘traditional’ cast-based management has persisted despite alternative evidence.

Methods

A retrospective review was performed of a consecutive series of paediatric patients diagnosed with torus fractures of the distal forearm between 2011 and 2014. Records were reviewed to abstract the type of immobilization (splint versus cast) prescribed at each visit, number of radiographic exams, duration of immobilization, number of clinical visits and complications. The primary outcome was the proportion of patients exclusively managed in splints. Injuries were grouped based on treatment into a cast group (CG) and a splint group (SG) for statistical analyses. Additionally, injuries were grouped by epoch of time to determine if immobilization usage patterns evolved.

Results

A total of 240 forty injuries met criteria for inclusion. Of these, 16 (6.7%) were exclusively splinted (SG). Relative to the CG, the SG had fewer clinical visits (p < 0.001), fewer radiographic exams (p < 0.001) and a shorter total encounter time (p = 0.015). No change in immobilization use occurred over the study period. In all, 21 (9.4%) of the CG experienced complications. No clinically significant displacements occurred in either group.

Conclusion

Cast utilization and frequent radiographic follow-up remain prevalent at our institution in the management of paediatric torus fractures. Splint-only management was associated with fewer clinical visits, fewer radiographic exams and a shorter total encounter time.

Level of Evidence Level III

Therapeutic retrospective cohort study
Rate of displacement for Jakob Type 1 lateral condyle fractures treated with a cast
Authors: Zale C. , Winthrop Z. A. , Hennrikus W.
Published: March 2018

Purpose

The aim of this retrospective study is to report the rate of displacement of Jakob Type 1 lateral condyle fractures that were initially treated in a cast.

Methods

We performed a retrospective review of all patients that were treated for a non-displaced (Jakob Type 1 < 2 mm) lateral condyle fracture of the humerus at our institution between 2002 and 2015.

Results

A total of 59 patients were initially treated with casting. Five fractures displaced and were converted to a closed pinning treatment plan with a conversion rate of 8.5%. There was a mean of 13.2 days (4 to 21) between treatment by initial casting and closed pinning.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates an 8.5% displacement and conversion rate from cast treatment to closed pinning for initially non-displaced Jakob Type 1 lateral condyle fractures of the humerus. The internal oblique radiograph is most accurate to determine displacement. We recommend obtaining an internal oblique view at initial evaluation and at follow-up in the cast for lateral condyle fractures. To minimize movement at the fracture site, we recommend treating Jakob Type 1 lateral condyle fractures with a long arm cast with the elbow at 90° and the forearm in the supine position with a sling-loop design.

Level of Evidence

IV – retrospective therapeutic study
Indo-US Strategic Partnership: Implications for Pakistan
Authors: Sadaf Farooq  , Sadia Kazmi  , Javaria Javed
Published: March 2018

In the scheme of American grand strategy for the ‘new world order’, India has emerged as the most powerful regional ally. The emerging “strategic partnership” between the US and India is based on a shared view for democracy and concerns about the threat of global terrorism as well as mutual unease considering the long-term implications of the rise of China in Asia and beyond. US and India have complementary economic and strategic security interests as the former desires to maintain her economic and military supremacy in the world. India on her part wants to develop security ties with America to facilitate her becoming dominant regional and global power in the foreseeable future. Shared perception about ‘terrorism’ has further cemented their relations where India promptly endorses US stance on “War on Terrorism” with a hope to turn US interests to its advantage by labeling freedom struggle in Kashmir as Pakistan sponsored insurgency. Reflections of converging interests include: US-India Next Steps in Strategic Partnership (NSSP) initiative, signing of 123 Nuclear Agreement, missile defense, and ten-year defense framework agreement that calls for expanding bilateral security cooperation. Pakistan cannot afford to remain oblivious to these developments due to their security implications. Enhanced capacity building of Indian armed forces and nuclear collaborations may undermine the deterrent value of Pakistan's conventional and nuclear weapons. A combination of pragmatic foreign policy backed with credible conventional and nuclear deterrence could serve desired national security interests. While remaining strategically relevant to US, Islamabad will have to continue to cultivate good relationship with Beijing. On internal front, Pakistan must revive her economy and achieve more national cohesion so as to offset the negative effects of Indo-US strategic convergence.
India and Pakistan: Outlining a Path towards Peace
Authors: Michael Hirsh  , Ahmad Hassan Awan  , Jayanta Krishna Sarmah
Published: March 2018

This paper is a multidisciplinary analysis of the relationship between India and Pakistan. The authors contend that much would be gained by Pakistan and India if normalization between the two could be achieved. By examining the failures of past negotiations and examining current conditions, the paper puts forth areas where there exist common interests and what they believe could be a path to peace between these nation-states. The work suggests there are numerous factors that have contributed to the current state of affairs between India and Pakistan. Some of the factors are more obvious than others like the Partition trauma and Kashmir. The paper then highlights some of the more obscure issues which include anti-other education in Pakistani and Indian schools. All need to be considered as we try to unravel the knot of distrust between these two countries and look to establish common ground in areas which require urgent attention and push for reconciliation.
Verfolgungsjagden
Authors: Pietsch Volker
Published: March 2018

Der Film wird immer wieder in Konkurrenz zur Literatur gesetzt - von Künstlern und Lehrern, Wissenschaft und Politik. Oft geht dabei die Angst vor dem Film mit der Angst um das Buch einher. Doch welche Argumente und versteckten Motive prägen den Wettstreit der Medien? Wie beeinflusst er unsere Erziehung über Generationen hinweg bis zur Gegenwart? Volker Pietsch eröffnet eine Vielfalt an Perspektiven zu einer Geschichte von 120 Jahren Theorie und Kulturpolitik - und damit eine anregende Studie für alle, die sich für die eigene Medienbiographie interessieren. Zugleich erwächst aus der Diskurskritik ein neuer, umfassender Vergleich der beiden Künste, der auch als Grundlage für die pädagogische Praxis dienen kann.