bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Minimally Invasive Aesthetic Procedures: An Update on a Decade-Old Prediction
Authors: Sand Jordan , Nabili Vishad , Keller Gregory , Moayer Roxana
Published: July 2017

In 2007, the senior author (G.S.K.) published a commentary on the importance of incorporating minimally invasive aesthetic procedures into facial plastic surgery practices and training programs. The now decade-old prediction suggested that failing to perform minimally invasive aesthetic procedures placed facial plastic surgeons at risk of practice “phase out.” By not providing the most current options that patients' desire, we may lose patients to outside providers willing to perform those procedures. The aim of this article is to provide an update on this perspective by putting forth the results of the most up-to-date data on practice patterns with regard to minimally invasive aesthetic procedures.
Platelet-Rich Plasma for the Aesthetic Surgeon
Authors: Nabili Vishad , Kochhar Amit , Rawnsley Jeffrey , Keller Gregory , Sand Jordan
Published: July 2017

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is an autogenously harvested blood plasma containing concentrated levels of platelets and growth factors. PRP has been identified as a promising treatment for enhancing wound healing and has been used for decades in multiple medical specialties including cardiac surgery, oral surgery, ophthalmology, and orthopedic surgery. Growing evidence for multiple aesthetic surgery applications has recently been developed, particularly for hair restoration and skin rejuvenation. The goal of this article is to review the current medical literature on PRP and identify promising applications that may be integrated into a modern aesthetic surgery practice. The evidence for the use of PRP technology is rapidly expanding as a powerful therapy for select cosmetic surgery patients.
Schlafbezogene Atmungsstörungen bei beatmungspflichtigen Patienten – Relevanz für das perioperative und das intensivmedizinische Management
Authors: Keymel S. , Krüger S. , Steiner S.
Published: July 2017

Schlafbezogene Atmungsstörungen (SBAS) als häufige und relevante Komorbidität erfordern sowohl im perioperativen Management als auch in der intensivmedizinischen Behandlung kritisch kranker Patienten besondere Berücksichtigung. Patienten mit SBAS benötigen aufgrund eines erhöhten perioperativen Risikos für kardiale, pneumologische und neurologische Komplikationen eine maßgeschneiderte perioperative Überwachung und Therapie, wobei die aktuellen Empfehlungen primär Patienten mit einer obstruktiven Schlafapnoe betrachten. Die intensivmedizinische Behandlung von kritisch kranken Patienten mit SBAS erfordert ein aufmerksames Management während der Beatmung, in der Weaning- und in der Postextubationsphase, um das Risiko einer prolongierten Beatmung oder eines Weaningversagens zu reduzieren.
Unfallmeldungen zu Nadelstichverletzungen bei Beschäftigten in Krankenhäusern, Arztpraxen und Pflegeeinrichtungen
Authors: Dulon Madeleine , Lisiak Birgit , Wendeler Dana , Nienhaus Albert
Published: July 2017

Ziel Mit der aktualisierten „Technischen Regel für biologische Arbeitsstoffe im Gesundheitsdienst und in der Wohlfahrtspflege“ (TRBA 250) sind Schutzmaßnahmen zur Prävention von Stich- und Schnittverletzungen seit März 2014 in Deutschland neu geregelt. In der vorliegenden Studie wird 6 Monate nach Inkrafttreten der TRBA 250 untersucht, ob sich Krankenhäuser, Arztpraxen und Pflegeeinrichtungen unterscheiden hinsichtlich der Ursachen von Nadelstichverletzungen (NSV) sowie der Verfügbarkeit und Anwendung von stichsicheren Instrumenten (SSI).

Methode Im Rahmen dieser Studie wurde eine Stichprobe von Unfallmeldungen ausgewertet, die im Zusammenhang mit einer NSV bei der Berufsgenossenschaft für Gesundheitsdienst und Wohlfahrtspflege (BGW) angezeigt wurden (n=1602). Zum Unfallhergang und zum Umgang mit SSI an den Arbeitsplätzen wurden die Beschäftigten telefonisch befragt (Responsequote 33,3%). Die Auswertung erfolgte deskriptiv, getrennt für 3 Tätigkeitsbereiche: Krankenhäuser, Arztpraxen und Pflegeeinrichtungen, worunter stationäre Altenpflege und ambulante Dienste zusammengefasst wurden.

Ergebnisse In allen 3 Bereichen ereignete sich etwa die Hälfte der NSV nicht bei der invasiven Prozedur, sondern erst im Anschluss daran bei der Entsorgung der Geräte. Kanülen für subkutane Injektionen waren die Ursache für 30% aller NSV, in Pflegeeinrichtungen lag der Anteil bei über 50%. SSI waren in Krankenhäusern und Arztpraxen an 80% und in Pflegeeinrichtungen an 50% der Arbeitsplätze vorhanden. Als Grund für die NSV im Zusammenhang mit einem SSI wurde in über 90% der Fälle fehlende Erfahrung in der Aktivierung des Sicherheitsmechanismus angegeben. SSI waren an 20% der NSV in Krankenhäusern und Arztpraxen beteiligt und an 10% der NSV in Pflegeeinrichtungen.

Schlussfolgerung Schulungen zur sicheren Entsorgung von spitzen Instrumenten sollten sich an alle Berufsgruppen wenden, die in Kontakt mit solchen Instrumenten kommen könnten. Das Infektionsrisiko durch subkutane Kanülen ist derzeit nicht eindeutig bestimmbar. Gleichwohl sind in der stationären Altenpflege und in der ambulanten Versorgung Schulungen zum sicheren Umgang mit Pen-Kanülen notwendig in Anbetracht des hohen Anteils an Unfällen, die in diesen Tätigkeitsbereichen durch subkutane Injektionsnadeln verursacht wurden.
Complete endoscopic sphincterotomy with vs. without large-balloon dilation for the removal of large bile duct stones: randomized multicenter study
Authors: Karsenti David , Coron Emmanuel , Vanbiervliet Geoffroy , Privat Jocelyn , Kull Eric , Bichard Philippe , Perrot Bastien , Quentin Vincent , Duriez Arnaud , Cholet Franck , Subtil Clément , Duchmann Jean , Lefort Christine , Hudziak Hervé , Koch Stéphane , Granval Philippe , Lecleire Stéphane , Charachon Antoine , Barange Karl , Cesbron Elodie , De Widerspach Axel , Le Baleur Yann , Barthet Marc , Poincloux Laurent
Published: July 2017

Background and study aims Endoscopic sphincterotomy plus large-balloon dilation (ES-LBD) has been reported as an alternative to endoscopic sphincterotomy for the removal of bile duct stones. This multicenter study compared complete endoscopic sphincterotomy with vs. without large-balloon dilation for the removal of large bile duct stones. This is the first randomized multicenter study to evaluate these procedures in patients with exclusively large common bile duct (CBD) stones.

Methods Between 2010 and 2015, 150 patients with one or more common bile duct stones ≥ 13 mm were randomized to two groups: 73 without balloon dilation (conventional group), 77 with balloon dilation (ES-LBD group). Mechanical lithotripsy was subsequently performed only if the stones were too large for removal through the papilla. Endoscopic sphincterotomy was complete in both groups. Patients could switch to ES-LBD if the conventional procedure failed.

Results There was no between-group difference in number and size of stones. CBD stone clearance was achieved in 74.0 % of patients in the conventional group and 96.1 % of patients in the ES-LBD group (P < 0.001). Mechanical lithotripsy was needed significantly more often in the conventional group (35.6 % vs. 3.9 %; P < 0.001). There was no difference in terms of morbidity (9.3 % in the conventional group vs. 8.1 % in the ES-LBD group; P = 0.82). The cost and procedure time were not significantly different between the groups overall, but became significantly higher for patients in the conventional group who underwent mechanical lithotripsy. The conventional procedure failed in 19 patients, 15 of whom underwent a rescue ES-LBD procedure that successfully cleared all stones.

Conclusions Complete endoscopic sphincterotomy with large-balloon dilation for the removal of large CBD stones has similar safety but superior efficiency to conventional treatment, and should be considered as the first-line step in the treatment of large bile duct stones and in rescue treatment.

Trial registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT02592811).
Reprocessing of single-use endoscopic variceal band ligation devices: a pilot study
Authors: Visrodia Kavel , Haseeb Abdul , Hanada Yuri , Pennington Kelly , Clemens Magdalen , Pearce Paul , Tosh Pritish , Petersen Bret , Topazian Mark
Published: July 2017

Background and study aims The preferred management of bleeding esophageal varices includes endoscopic band ligation. Endoscopic ligation devices (ELDs) are expensive and designed for single use, limiting their uptake in developing countries. We aimed to assess the efficacy of reprocessing ELDs using terminal microbial cultures and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) testing.

Materials and methods ELDs were recovered after clinical use and their components (cap, handle, and cord) were subjected to reprocessing. This included manual cleaning, automated high-level disinfection (HLD), and drying with forced air. Using sterile technique, ELD components were sampled for ATP at three stages: before manual cleaning, after manual cleaning, and after HLD. Components were sent to an external laboratory for culturing. Cultures were interpreted as positive upon identification of Gram-negative bacilli.

Results A total of 14 clinically used ELDs were studied, and 189 ATP tests and 41 cultures were evaluated. Overall, 95 % (39/41) of components and 86 % (12/14) of ELDs were culture-negative or did not yield Gram-negative bacilli. Two components (5 %; one handle and one cord) harbored Gram-negative bacilli in quantities of 1 CFU per component. There was no apparent correlation between ATP at any juncture of reprocessing and terminal cultures.

Conclusions Reprocessing of ELDs is effective, resulting in infrequent and minimal microbial contamination. Microbial culturing can be used to ensure adequacy of ELD reprocessing if pursued. Until reusable ELDs are commercially available, continued efforts to better define the adequacy and long-term effects of reprocessing ELDs are needed.
Probe-based endomicroscopy for in vivo detection of gastric intestinal metaplasia and neoplasia: a multicenter randomized controlled trial
Authors: Zuo Xiu-Li , Li Zhen , Li Chang-Qing , Zheng You-You , Xu Li-Dong , Chen Jie , Lin Rong , Song Jun , Yu Chao-Hui , Yue Min , Zhou Qi , Liu Zhi-Yan , Li Yan-Qing
Published: July 2017

Background and study aims Owing to the indistinctive endoscopic appearance of gastric intestinal metaplasia (GIM), gastric intraepithelial neoplasia (GIN), and early gastric cancer (EGC), a significant number of such lesions may be missed during surveillance endoscopy. The aim of this clinical trial was to assess the value of combined computed virtual chromoendoscopy (flexible spectral imaging color enhancement [FICE]) and probe-based confocal laser endomicroscopy (pCLE) for in vivo detection of GIM, GIN, and EGC.

Patients and methods This was a multicenter, randomized controlled trial performed in 238 patients at four tertiary centers. Patients were randomized to FICE-guided pCLE with targeted biopsies (group A) or FICE with standard biopsies (group B). The diagnostic yield of GIM, GIN, or EGC was compared between the two groups.

Results On a per-patient assessment, the diagnostic yield for GIM/GIN/EGC was 73.3 % (88/120) in group A and 63.6 % (75/118) in group B (P = 0.09). On a per-biopsy analysis, FICE-guided pCLE with targeted biopsies significantly increased the diagnostic yield of GIM/GIN/EGC vs. FICE with standard biopsies, from 31.5 % (252/800) to 75.1 % (313/417) (P < 0.001). In addition, pCLE-guided targeted biopsies led to a significant 48.5 % decrease in the number of biopsies per patient vs. FICE with standard biopsies (P < 0.001).

Conclusions Real-time pCLE and targeted biopsies after FICE improved the diagnostic yield for the detection of GIM, GIN, and EGC, and only required about half the number of biopsies vs. FICE with standard biopsies. This may allow a better regimen for endoscopic surveillance and subsequent treatment of patients with premalignant and malignant gastric abnormalities.

Trial registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT02515721).
Tunable fluid-filled phononic metastrip
Authors: Wang Ting-Ting , Wang Yan-Feng , Wang Yue-Sheng , Laude Vincent
Published: July 2017

We study the propagation of Lamb waves in a one-dimensional tunable phononic metastrip composed of a periodic sequence of hollow pillars that can be selectively filled with water. Band structures and transmission properties are computed numerically for metastrips with different fluid fillings by using the finite element method. Good agreement is observed with experimental results obtained with an aluminum metastrip. In particular, it is found that the frequency range of bandgaps and passbands can be controlled through fluid filling. Our results imply that Lamb waves in the solid metastrip can be harnessed through changing the properties of the pillars via fluid-solid interaction. The work in this paper is relevant to practical design of tunable acoustic devices.
Neoclassical toroidal viscosity torque in tokamak edge pedestal induced by external resonant magnetic perturbation
Authors: Yan Xingting , Zhu Ping , Sun Youwen
Published: July 2017

The characteristic profile and magnitude are predicted in theory for the neoclassical toroidal viscosity (NTV) torque induced by the plasma response to the resonant magnetic perturbation (RMP) in a tokamak with an edge pedestal. For a low-β equilibrium, the NTV torque is dominated by the toroidal component with the same dominant toroidal mode number of RMPs. The NTV torque profile is found to be localized, whose peak location is determined by profiles of both the equilibrium temperature (pressure) and the plasma response. In general, the peak of the NTV torque profile is found to track the pedestal position. The magnitude of NTV torque strongly depends on the β value at the top of pedestal, which suggests a more significant role of NTV torque in higher plasma β regimes. For a fixed plasma β, decreasing density hence increasing temperature can also enhance the amplitude of NTV torque due to the reduced collisionality in the 1/ν regime. Based on those findings, we identify the tokamak operation regimes where the significance of NTV torque in the edge pedestal induced by RMP can approach those from other momentum sources such as the neutral beam injections.
Strong visible and near infrared photoluminescence from ZnO nanorods/nanowires grown on single layer graphene studied using sub-band gap excitation
Authors: Biroju Ravi K. , Giri P. K.
Published: July 2017

Fabrication and optoelectronic applications of graphene based hybrid 2D-1D semiconductor nanostructures have gained tremendous research interest in recent times. Herein, we present a systematic study on the origin and evolution of strong broad band visible and near infrared (NIR) photoluminescence (PL) from vertical ZnO nanorods (NRs) and nanowires (NWs) grown on single layer graphene using both above band gap and sub-band gap optical excitations. High resolution field emission scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction studies are carried out to reveal the morphology and crystalline quality of as-grown and annealed ZnO NRs/NWs on graphene. Room temperature PL studies reveal that besides the UV and visible PL bands, a new near-infrared (NIR) PL emission band appears in the range between 815 nm and 886 nm (1.40–1.52 eV). X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy studies revealed excess oxygen content and unreacted metallic Zn in the as-grown ZnO nanostructures, owing to the low temperature growth by a physical vapor deposition method. Post-growth annealing at 700 °C in the Ar gas ambient results in the enhanced intensity of both visible and NIR PL bands. On the other hand, subsequent high vacuum annealing at 700 °C results in a drastic reduction in the visible PL band and complete suppression of the NIR PL band. PL decay dynamics of green emission in Ar annealed samples show tri-exponential decay on the nanosecond timescale including a very slow decay component (time constant ∼604.5 ns). Based on these results, the NIR PL band comprising two peaks centered at ∼820 nm and ∼860 nm is tentatively assigned to neutral and negatively charged oxygen interstitial (Oi) defects in ZnO, detected experimentally for the first time. The evidence for oxygen induced trap states on the ZnO NW surface is further substantiated by the slow photocurrent response of graphene-ZnO NRs/NWs. These results are important for tunable light emission, photodetection, and other cutting edge applications of graphene-ZnO based 2D-1D hybrid nanostructures.
Perspective: A controversial benchmark system for water-oxide interfaces:
H2O/TiO2(110)
Authors: Diebold Ulrike
Published: July 2017

The interaction of water with the single-crystalline rutile TiO2(110) surface has been the object of intense investigations with both experimental and computational methods. Not only is TiO2(110) widely considered the prototypical oxide surface, its interaction with water is also important in many applications where this material is used. At first, experimental measurements were hampered by the fact that preparation recipes for well-controlled surfaces had yet to be developed, but clear experimental evidence that water dissociation at defects including oxygen vacancies and steps emerged. For a perfect TiO2(110) surface, however, an intense debate has evolved whether or not water adsorbs as an intact molecule or if it dissociates by donating a proton to a so-called bridge-bonded surface oxygen atom. Computational studies agree that the energy difference between these two states is very small and thus depends sensitively on the computational setup and on the approximations used in density functional theory (DFT). While a recent molecular beam/STM experiment [Z.-T. Wang et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U. S. A. 114(8), 1801–1805 (2017)] gives conclusive evidence for a slight preference (0.035 eV) for molecular water and a small activation energy of (0.36 eV) for dissociation, understanding the interface between liquid water and TiO2(110) arises as the next controversial frontier.
Ferroelectric, elastic, piezoelectric, and dielectric properties of Ba(Ti0.7Zr0.3)O3-x(Ba0.82Ca0.18)TiO3 Pb-free ceramics
Authors: Yuan Ruihao , Xue Deqing , Zhou Yumei , Ding Xiangdong , Sun Jun , Xue Dezhen
Published: July 2017

We designed and synthesized a pseudo-binary Pb-free system, Ba(Ti0.7Zr0.3)O3-x(Ba0.82Ca0.18)TiO3, by combining a rhombohedral end (with only cubic to rhombohedral ferroelectric phase transition) and a tetragonal end (with only cubic to tetragonal ferroelectric phase transition). The established composition-temperature phase diagram is characterized by a tricritical point type morphotropic phase boundary (MPB), and the MPB composition has better ferroelectric, piezoelectric, and dielectric properties than the compositions deviating from MPB. Moreover, a full set of material constants (including elastic stiffness constants, elastic compliance constants, piezoelectric constants, dielectric constants, and electromechanical coupling factors) of the MPB composition are determined using a resonance method. The good piezoelectric performance of the MPB composition can be ascribed to the high dielectric constants, elastic softening, and large electromechanical coupling factor.
Consequences of high-frequency operation on EUV source efficiency
Authors: Sizyuk Tatyana
Published: July 2017

A potential problem of future extreme ultraviolet (EUV) sources, required for high volume manufacture regimes, can be related to the contamination of the chamber environment by products of preceding laser pulse/droplet interactions. Implementation of high, 100 kHz and higher, repetition rate of EUV sources using Sn droplets ignited with laser pulses can cause high accumulation of tin in the chamber in the form of vapor, fine mist, or fragmented clusters. In this work, the effects of the residual tin accumulation in the EUV chamber in dependence on laser parameters and mitigation system efficiency were studied. The effect of various pressures of tin vapor on the CO2 and Nd:YAG laser beam propagation and on the size, the intensity, and the resulting efficiency of the EUV sources was analyzed. The HEIGHTS 3D package was used for this analysis to study the effect of residual background pressure and spatial distribution on EUV photon emission and collection. It was found that background pressure in the range of 1–5 Pa does not significantly influence the EUV source produced by CO2 lasers. A larger volume with this pressure condition, however, can reduce the efficiency of the source. However, an optimized volume of mix with proper density could increase the efficiency of the sources produced by CO2 lasers.
Hormones, stress and the welfare of animals
Authors: Tilbrook A. J. , Ralph C. R.
Published: July 2017

There are numerous endocrine (hormonal) responses during stress and these are often complex. This complexity makes the study of endocrine stress responses challenging and the challenges are intensified when attempts are made to use measures of hormones to assess the welfare of animals because so many endocrine systems are activated during stress and because there are countless stimuli that trigger these systems. Most research has concentrated on only a small number of these endocrine systems, particularly the hypothalamo–pituitary adrenal axis and the sympathoadrenal system, and there is a need to broaden the scope of endocrine systems that are studied. Furthermore, systematic approaches are required to establish when the actions of hormones associated with stress responses result in physiological and/or behavioural consequences that will have negative or positive effects on the welfare of animals.
Multisource data for seasonal variability analysis of cyanobacteria in a tropical inland aquatic environment
Authors: Cicerelli Rejane Ennes , Galo Maria de Lourdes B. Trindade , Roig Henrique Llacer
Published: July 2017

Cyanobacterial blooms are related to eutrophic conditions that compromise the many uses of reservoirs. Thus, quick and effective methods for detecting the abundance of cyanobacteria in waterbodies are needed to complement conventional laboratory methods. In addition, inadequate control techniques that are applied at times of high cyanobacterial concentrations can cause the cells to lyse and release toxins into the water. In the present study we investigated the behaviour of cyanobacteria by determining phycocyanin and chlorophyll concentrations, using spectroradiometric and fluorometric techniques, in three field campaigns performed at the Nova Avanhandava Reservoir, Brazil. The sampling rate and favourable season for data collected had been determined previously by remote sensing analysis. Seasonal estimates of cyanobacteria were made because fluorometric sensors were able to record low concentrations, whereas the spectral analyses only detected phycocyanin at higher concentrations. Results of spectral analyses highlighted the subtle spectral characteristics indicating the presence of phycocyanin, even without a clear definition of the diagnostic features in the reflectance curve. Therefore, multiscale remote sensing complemented by fluorometric analysis and relevant environmental variables is an effective approach for monitoring cyanobacteria in Brazilian inland waters.
Detection, dispersal and biogeochemical contribution of hydrothermal iron in the ocean
Authors: Holmes Thomas M. , Chase Zanna , van der Merwe Pier , Townsend Ashley T. , Bowie Andrew R.
Published: July 2017

This review aims to bring into focus the current understanding of hydrothermal systems and plume dynamics, tracers of hydrothermalism and the contribution of iron from hydrothermal vents to the global oceanic iron budget. The review then explores hydrothermal effect on surface ocean productivity. It is now well documented that scarcity of iron limits the production of chlorophyll-producing organisms in many regions of the ocean that are high in macronutrients. However, it is only recently that hydrothermal inputs have gained recognition as a source of Fe to the deep oceans that may potentially affect surface ocean productivity in some regions. A compilation of iron measurements from hydrothermal vents reveals that although hydrothermal studies measuring iron have increased significantly in recent years, there is still a dearth of data below 40°S. New analytical approaches for tracing iron sources, coupled with increasing sampling coverage of the oceans, is quickly improving knowledge of the effect of hydrothermal sources on biogeochemical cycles, a vital component in predicting future climate scenarios.
The future for peas and beans.
Authors: Biddle A. J.
Published: July 2017

This chapter discusses the constraints and opportunities as well as the future for peas and beans (focusing on faba and Phaseolus beans). Their varietal performance, yield, quality, resistance to pests and diseases, drought tolerance, breeding technologies, food uses and processing developments are described. The increasing demand for animal feed; the impact of climate change on their production; and the role of legumes in cropping rotation are also mentioned. It is concluded that the future for peas and beans as adaptable, sustainable, environmentally friendly and with a high production potential, together with an increasing demand, is positive. There are many research programmes in progress that are aimed at overcoming the main constraints to pea and bean production both in the developed and in the developing countries of the world. All are aimed primarily at extending the yield and increasing the quality of the harvested product through plant breeding and agronomic management and at extending the demand through innovation for food for the growing human population, increasing human health and reducing the dependence on non-sustainable commodities, as well as food for animal and fish production. In addition, work is ongoing to exploit the crops as a source of pharmaceutical and nutraceutical products.
Production and growing regions.
Authors: Gradziel T. M. , Curtis R. , Socias i Company R.
Published: July 2017

This chapter provides information on almond production in Asia, eastern Europe, Mediterranean countries and New World regions in North and South America and in Australia. General production statistics for the past 60 years are shown, with more detailed data from 2001 to 2010. In the New World production regions (USA, Chile, Australia) most cultivars are soft shell with a high shelling percentage, whereas in more traditional growing areas (Spain, Italy, central Asia) most cultivars are hard-shell, with a lower shelling percentage. Despite falling production in most traditional growing regions, global production has more than doubled in the past 20 years from a 1994 crop of only 354 259.3 tm. Most of the increase in production has occurred in California (USA), where a doubling in crop area combined with a tripling of per hectare productivity has occurred.
Late-blooming cultivar development.
Authors: Dicenta F. , Sánchez-Pérez R. , Batlle I. , Martínez-Gómez P.
Published: July 2017

This chapter discusses the importance, variability, genetic control (heritability and environmental influence) and correlation with other characteristics, as well as genomics, transcriptomics and metabolomics, of flowering time in wild and cultivated almonds. Some breeding methods to obtain late flowering almonds are described. The impact of climate change on the flowering of almonds is also discussed.
Environmental requirements.
Authors: Alonso J. M.
Published: July 2017

This chapter discusses important environmental factors affecting almond tree growth, including flower bud formation, flowering and fruit growth and maturation. These include light, temperature (cold hardiness, dormancy and spring frost injury), rains, summer water stress, and soil chemical and physical properties, which have direct effects on almond production.
Almond tree nutrition.
Authors: Muhammad S. , Saa S. , Khalsa S. D. S. , Weinbaum S. , Brown P.
Published: July 2017

Almond requires 17 elements for growth and development and, if any of these elements are deficient, growth and production are impaired. These 17 elements are called essential elements and include carbon (C), hydrogen (H), oxygen (O), nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), sulfur (S), calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg), boron (B), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), chloride (Cl), molybdenum (Mo) and nickel (Ni). This chapter describes three methods of monitoring the nutrient supply and diagnosing nutrition problems in almond: (i) soil analysis, (ii) leaf analysis, and (iii) visual inspection (symptoms). Because of their central importance to almond production, N and K fertilizer management are discussed in more detail. The 4R (right rate, right time, right placement and right source) approach to fertilizer management is explained. The occurrence, identification and correction of common nutrient disorders are described, as well as the damages caused by nutrient toxicities.
Almond diseases.
Authors: Palacio-Bielsa A. , Cambra M. , Martínez C. , Olmos A. , Pallás V. , López M. M. , Adaskaveg J. E. , Förster H. , Cambra M. A. , Duval H. , Esmenjaud D.
Published: July 2017

This chapter aims to provide an overview of up-to-date knowledge on major diseases affecting almond, and it is intended to be applicable worldwide. It is divided into five sections. The first section describes diseases caused by graft-transmissible pathogens (viruses, viroids and phytoplasmas). The second section includes bacterial diseases. The third section describes diseases caused by fungi and fungal-like organisms. The fourth section includes nematodes, while the final section describes some disorders with unknown aetiologies. Each section includes a review of the disease distribution and importance, the causal agent(s), symptoms useful for diagnosis, and ecological and epidemiological information, as well as integrated management practices.
Bovine milk-derived α-lactalbumin prevents hepatic fibrosis induced by dimethylnitrosamine via nitric oxide pathway in rats
Authors: Fukawa Akika , Kobayashi Orie , Yamaguchi Makoto , Uchida Masayuki , Hosono Akira
Published: July 2017

The present study was designed to evaluate the hepatoprotective potential of α-lactalbumin (αLA) against dimethylnitrosamine (DMN)-induced toxic insults in the rat liver. The liver damage was induced in rats by the repeated administration of DMN (10 mg/kg, i.p.) on three consecutive days per week for three weeks. The rats were maintained on either a standard AIN-93 M or αLA-enriched diet starting one week before the DMN injection until the termination of the experiment. The DMN treatment produced a progressive increase in the plasma markers (aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, total bililbin, hyarulonic acid, and matrix metalloproteinase-2) in 28 days after the first DMN injection. Dietary treatment with αLA significantly reduced the DMN-induced damage toward normalcy. NＧ-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester, a nitric oxide synthase inhibitor, significantly attenuated the hepatoprotective effect of αLA. These findings show that αLA has a marked suppressive effect on hepetic fibrosis through a nitric oxide-mediated mechanism.
Reference genome assessment from a population scale perspective: an accurate profile of variability and noise
Authors: Carbonell-Caballero José , Amadoz Alicia , Alonso Roberto , Hidalgo Marta R , Çubuk Cankut , Conesa David , López-Quílez Antonio , Dopazo Joaquín
Published: July 2017

Motivation

Current plant and animal genomic studies are often based on newly assembled genomes that have not been properly consolidated. In this scenario, misassembled regions can easily lead to false-positive findings. Despite quality control scores are included within genotyping protocols, they are usually employed to evaluate individual sample quality rather than reference sequence reliability. We propose a statistical model that combines quality control scores across samples in order to detect incongruent patterns at every genomic region. Our model is inherently robust since common artifact signals are expected to be shared between independent samples over misassembled regions of the genome.

Results

The reliability of our protocol has been extensively tested through different experiments and organisms with accurate results, improving state-of-the-art methods. Our analysis demonstrates synergistic relations between quality control scores and allelic variability estimators, that improve the detection of misassembled regions, and is able to find strong artifact signals even within the human reference assembly. Furthermore, we demonstrated how our model can be trained to properly rank the confidence of a set of candidate variants obtained from new independent samples.

Availability and implementation

This tool is freely available at http://gitlab.com/carbonell/ces.

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Improved prediction of breast cancer outcome by identifying heterogeneous biomarkers
Authors: Choi Jonghwan , Park Sanghyun , Yoon Youngmi , Ahn Jaegyoon
Published: July 2017

Motivation

Identification of genes that can be used to predict prognosis in patients with cancer is important in that it can lead to improved therapy, and can also promote our understanding of tumor progression on the molecular level. One of the common but fundamental problems that render identification of prognostic genes and prediction of cancer outcomes difficult is the heterogeneity of patient samples.

Results

To reduce the effect of sample heterogeneity, we clustered data samples using K-means algorithm and applied modified PageRank to functional interaction (FI) networks weighted using gene expression values of samples in each cluster. Hub genes among resulting prioritized genes were selected as biomarkers to predict the prognosis of samples. This process outperformed traditional feature selection methods as well as several network-based prognostic gene selection methods when applied to Random Forest. We were able to find many cluster-specific prognostic genes for each dataset. Functional study showed that distinct biological processes were enriched in each cluster, which seems to reflect different aspect of tumor progression or oncogenesis among distinct patient groups. Taken together, these results provide support for the hypothesis that our approach can effectively identify heterogeneous prognostic genes, and these are complementary to each other, improving prediction accuracy.

Availability and implementation

https://github.com/mathcom/CPR

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
ALMA multiline observations toward the central region of NGC 613
Authors: Miyamoto Yusuke , Nakai Naomasa , Seta Masumichi , Salak Dragan , Nagai Makoto , Kaneko Hiroyuki
Published: July 2017

We report ALMA observations of molecular gas and continuum emission in the 90 and 350 GHz bands toward a nearby Seyfert galaxy, NGC 613. Radio continuum emissions were detected at 95 and 350 GHz from both the circumnuclear disk (CND) (r ≲ 90 pc) and a star-forming ring (250 ≲ r ≲ 340 pc), and the 95 GHz continuum was observed to extend from the center at a position angle of 20° ± 8°. The archival 4.9 GHz data and our 95 GHz data show spectral indices of α ≲ −0.6 and −0.2 along the jets and in the star-forming ring; these can be produced by synchrotron emission and free–free emission, respectively. In addition, we detected the emission of CO(3–2), HCN(1–0), HCN(4–3), HCO+(1–0), HCO+(4–3), CS(2–1), and CS(7–6) in both the CND and the ring. The rotational temperatures and column densities of molecules derived from J = 1–0 and 4–3 lines of HCN and HCO+ and J = 2–1 and 7–6 of CS in the CND and ring were derived. Furthermore, a non-local thermodynamic equilibrium model revealed that the kinetic temperature of Tk = 350–550 K in the CND is higher than Tk = 80–300 K in the ring, utilizing the intensity ratios of HCN, HCO+, and CS. The star-formation efficiency in the CND is almost an order of magnitude lower than those at the spots in the star-forming ring, while the dominant activity of the central region is star formation rather than active galactic nuclei. We determined that the large velocity dispersion of CO extending towards the north side of the CND and decomposing into blueshifted and redshifted features is probably explained by the effect of the radio jets. These results strongly suggest that the jets heat the gas in the CND, in which the feedback prevents star formation.
Tuskegee and the Health of Black Men*
Authors: Alsan Marcella , Wanamaker Marianne
Published: July 2017

For 40 years, the Tuskegee Study of Untreated Syphilis in the Negro Male passively monitored hundreds of adult black men with syphilis despite the availability of effective treatment. The study’s methods have become synonymous with exploitation and mistreatment by the medical profession. To identify the study’s effects on the behavior and health of older black men, we use an interacted difference-in-difference-in-differences model, comparing older black men to other demographic groups, before and after the Tuskegee revelation, in varying proximity to the study’s victims. We find that the disclosure of the study in 1972 is correlated with increases in medical mistrust and mortality and decreases in both outpatient and inpatient physician interactions for older black men. Our estimates imply life expectancy at age 45 for black men fell by up to 1.5 years in response to the disclosure, accounting for approximately 35% of the 1980 life expectancy gap between black and white men and 25% of the gap between black men and women.
Folate Stability in Folic Acid Enriched Corn Masa Flour, Tortillas, and Tortilla Chips over the Expected Shelf Life
Authors: Phillips Reneé , Pike Oscar A. , Eggett Dennis L. , Dunn Michael L.
Published: July 2017

Neural tube defects occur at higher rates in Hispanic populations in the United States. Such populations would benefit from folic acid fortification of corn masa flour (CMF). This study evaluated folate stability in fortified CMFs and tortillas and tortilla chips made therefrom. There was no significant loss of folate during the six‐month shelf life of fortified tortilla CMF and tortilla chip CMF. There was a 13% loss (P < 0.05) of folate during tortilla baking and no loss during tortilla chip frying. Both tortillas and tortilla chips showed significant folate losses over the two‐month shelf life for these products, with a 17% loss in fortified tortillas and a 9% loss in tortilla chips. Folate in fortified CMFs, tortillas, and tortilla chips is relatively stable and comparable to the stability of folate in wheat flour and breads.
Monitoring Bean pod mottle virus and Soybean mosaic virus Incidence at Different Soybean Growth Stages in Alabama
Authors: Sikora Edward J. , Murphy John F. , Conner Kassie N.
Published: July 2017

This study focuses on Bean pod mottle virus (BPMV) and Soybean mosaic virus (SMV) incidence over time relative to stages of plant growth in selected fields in Alabama. Five commercial soybean fields in west-central Alabama were surveyed for BPMV and SMV in 2010-2012 and 2014. Incidence of BPMV was typically highest at crop maturity. Incidence of 10% or higher was recorded at full bloom in at least one field in each year of the study, but incidence did not exceed 23% at bloom in any field with one exception. SMV was not detected at high levels during this study and incidence above 10% at full bloom was recorded for only one field. Results from this study, combined with observations from a previous statewide survey, indicate that BPMV is the most common virus disease of soybeans in Alabama. BPMV has the potential to cause yield loss in years when bean leaf beetles, its most important vector, are present at high levels early in the season when infection of soybean prior to flowering is possible. Results also suggest that SMV incidence in soybean in Alabama is low in most years and the disease might not pose a significant threat to soybean production at this time, especially in the absence of high populations of soybean aphids in the state.
Evaluation and management of heavy menstrual bleeding in adolescents
Authors: Moon Lisa M. , Perez-Milicua Gisselle , Dietrich Jennifer E.
Published: July 2017

Purpose of review

Heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB) is a common condition in women of reproductive age; however, adolescents with this issue present unique challenges in both diagnosis and management. Much of the research into this topic focuses on the adult population, with variable applicability to adolescents. There are currently no standard guidelines for the work up and treatment of adolescents with HMB.

Recent findings

Current research into this topic has explored the utilization of standardized protocols in the evaluation of HMB in adolescents, the efficacy of various hormonal, nonhormonal, and surgical treatment modalities, and the benefits of a multidisciplinary approach. Recent literature has focused on adolescents found to have an underlying bleeding disorder, recommending more comprehensive bleeding disorder work up to identify these patients in a timely manner and initiate effective treatment plans.

Providers in the primary care setting should be aware of the definitions for normal menses, and be able to recognize abnormal bleeding and HMB. Early recognition of HMB in adolescents can then lead to appropriate diagnosis of underlying disorders, and current research has proposed standard protocols to assist with the evaluation, ultimately leading to effective long-term management into adulthood.

Video abstract

http://links.lww.com/COOG/A40
How to translate the new hospital-acquired and ventilator-associated pneumonia guideline to the bedside
Authors: Perez Mario F. , Metersky Mark L. , Kalil Andre C.
Published: July 2017

Purpose of review

Hospital-acquired pneumonia and ventilator-associated pneumonia remain significant causes of morbidity, mortality, and financial burden in the United States and around the globe. Although guidelines for the management of patients with these conditions have been available for several years, implementation remains challenging. Here, we review the most common barriers faced by clinicians in implementing the current guidelines and offer suggestions for improved adherence.

Recent findings

Recent studies have identified barriers to the implementation of the guidelines regarding management of hospital-acquired and ventilator-associated pneumonia. The most common difficulties encountered are lack of awareness of the guidelines, practice variation among providers delivering care to affected patients, lack of antibiogram information, and lack of antibiotic stewardship programs.

Translating the current hospital-acquired and ventilator-associated pneumonia guidelines to the bedside requires understanding of the current barriers affecting care of patients with these conditions. Adopting clinical guidelines facilitates the management of these patients and improves outcomes. Dissemination of the guidelines, provider education, antibiotic stewardship programs, access to local antibiogram information, audit and feedback, electronic tools and leadership commitment are likely to play important roles in guideline implementation. More studies on hospital-acquired and ventilator-associated pneumonia guideline implementation are necessary to identify the most effective interventions.
Pharyngolaryngeal symptoms associated with thyroid disease
Authors: Nam Inn-Chul , Park Young-Hak
Published: July 2017

Purpose of review

The current review summarizes previous reports on laryngopharyngeal symptoms associated with thyroid disease. This review also includes pharyngolaryngeal symptoms caused by thyroidectomy. However, we focus on pharyngolaryngeal symptoms following uncomplicated thyroidectomy, as this is an important issue in the fields of otolaryngology.

Recent findings

An enlarged thyroid gland, as in thyroiditis, multinodular goiter, or large nodules, can cause compressive symptoms. Malignant nodules invading the recurrent laryngeal nerve and benign nodules compressing the nerve can cause vocal cord paralysis and hoarseness. Pharyngolaryngeal symptoms are known to develop after a thyroidectomy, generally as a result of injury to the superior or recurrent laryngeal nerve. However, recent studies have shown that various pharyngolaryngeal symptoms, such as globus symptoms and voice changes, occur after thyroidectomy in the absence of laryngeal nerve injury. These symptoms are known collectively as postthyroidectomy syndrome. Several possible explanations have been proposed and evaluated for postthyroidectomy syndrome.

Several thyroid disorders can cause compressive symptoms and hoarseness. Superior and/or recurrent laryngeal nerve injury during thyroidectomy is the main cause of various pharyngolaryngeal symptoms. However, other pharyngolaryngeal symptoms that arise following thyroidectomy in the absence of nerve injury, a condition known as postthyroidectomy syndrome, are becoming more common.
Genetic causes of sudden cardiac death in children: inherited arrhythmogenic diseases
Authors: Vacanti Gaetano , Maragna Riccardo , Priori Silvia G. , Mazzanti Andrea
Published: July 2017

Purpose of review

In this chapter we will discuss the most recent and relevant evidences published in the field of inherited arrhythmogenic disorders, focusing on the so called ‘channelopathies’ that are associated with sudden cardiac death (SCD) in children: long QT syndrome (LQTS), short QT syndrome (SQTS), Brugada syndrome (BrS), and catecholaminergic polymorphic ventricular tachycardia (CPVT).

Recent findings

We will discuss the latest diagnostic criteria for channelopathies released by the European Society of Cardiology, the new data on BrS in children and the recent evidence supporting a genotype-specific therapy for LQTS type 3. Moreover, we will present further insights into the risk stratification of the children affected by LQTS, analyzing the role of imaging for the prediction of life-threatening arrhythmias. In addition, we will offer a perspective on how to deal with genetic results in families affected by SCD at very young ages.

The selected publications will aid pediatricians in their clinical work when managing little patients with inherited arrhythmias, providing the most recent information for diagnosis, risk stratification, and management.
Interventions Using Social Media for Cancer Prevention and Management
Authors: Han Claire Jungyoun , Lee Young Ji , Demiris George
Published: July 2017

Background:

Regarding cancer awareness, social media effectively promotes health and supports self-management. Given the diverse study designs, methodologies, and approaches of social media interventions in oncology, it is difficult to determine the effects of social media on cancer prevention and management.

Objective:

We aim to systematically review intervention studies using social media for cancer care.

Methods:

A systematic search, using 7 electronic databases (PubMed, Web of Science, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, Scopus, EMBASE, and PsycINFO), was conducted to identify surveys and interventions using contemporary social media tools with a focus on cancer.

Results:

Of the 18 selected studies, 7 were randomized controlled trials. Most studies were conducted for all types of cancer, and some were conducted for breast cancer in the United States, with mostly white female participants. Facebook was the most frequently used platform. Most studies targeted healthy participants providing cancer prevention education. With social media platforms as part of a larger intervention, or the main component of interventions, interventions were overall feasible and showed a significant improvement in cancer prevention and management.

Conclusions:

Social media tools have the potential to be effective in delivering interventions for cancer prevention and management. However, there was a dearth of studies with rigorous study methodologies to test social media effects on various cancer-related clinical outcomes.

Implications for Practice:

Social media use in cancer care will facilitate improved communication and support among patients, caregivers, and clinicians and, ultimately, improved patient care. Clinicians need to carefully harness social media to enhance patient care and clinical outcomes.