bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nutritional Status is Associated With Severe Dementia and Mortality
Authors: Sanders Chelsea L. , Wengreen Heidi J. , Schwartz Sarah , Behrens Stephanie J. , Corcoran Chris , Lyketsos Constantine G. , Tschanz JoAnn T.
Published: September 2018

Purpose:

Studies have reported faster cognitive/functional decline in persons with dementia (PWD) with malnutrition. We investigated whether baseline nutritional status predicted severe dementia and mortality in a population-based sample.

Patients:

A maximum of 300 PWD were assessed annually for up to 8.6 years.

Methods:

Nutritional status was assessed using a modified Mini-Nutritional Assessment (mMNA). Severe dementia was defined as: “severe” rating on the Clinical Dementia Rating or Mini-Mental State Examination score ≤10. Using Cox proportional hazards models, we examined the association between baseline mMNA score (or its subcomponents) with each outcome. Covariates included demographics; dementia onset age, type, and duration; APOE genotype; and residency with caregiver.

Results:

Compared with “well-nourished,” “malnourished” PWD had 3-4 times the hazard of severe dementia [hazard ratio (HR), 4.31; P=0.014] and death (HR, 3.04; P<0.001). Those “at risk for malnutrition” had twice the hazard of severe dementia (HR, 1.98; P=0.064) and 1.5 times the hazard of death (HR, 1.46; P=0.015). mMNA subcomponents of food group intake, weight loss, body mass index, mobility, health status, protein consumption, and mid-arm circumference predicted one or both outcomes.

Conclusions:

Nutritional status is an important predictor of clinical outcomes in dementia and may provide an avenue for intervention.
Rationale and Design of a Novel Method to Assess the Usability of Body-Worn Absorbent Incontinence Care Products by Caregivers
Authors: Kanerva Rice Sophie , Pendrill Leslie , Petersson Niclas , Nordlinder Jesper , Farbrot Anne
Published: September 2018

PURPOSE:

The purpose of this study was to develop and test a new method to measure the usability of absorbent incontinence care products from the caregivers' perspective and to investigate if the method can be used to differentiate between product types in a product change.

DESIGN:

Process evaluation and validation study.

SUBJECTS AND SETTING:

Product developers and end users participated in designing the new method. Thereafter, professional caregivers acted as testers of the new method, ranking usability when performing absorbent product changes on patients in a simulated nursing home care environment, assisted by third-party research institute moderators.

METHODS:

Design and evaluation of a new method designed to assess the usability of body-worn absorbent incontinence care products for lay caregivers were completed. The evaluation included formative and summative evaluations of effectiveness (product fit), efficiency (time and physical workload), and satisfaction. A person-centered approach aimed at including all subjects and settings to generate a single usability score for decision making and product benchmarking. Experienced caregivers changed 4 types of products: (1) disposable body-worn pads with mesh briefs (2-piece system); (2) disposable all-in-one briefs; (3) disposable, T-shaped, and belted brief; and (4) disposable pull-up pants on simulated patients in standing or lying position. Each product change was performed by 1 unassisted experienced caregiver. The probability of success as a score for each product type was calculated across the 4 metrics and reported with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Descriptive and inferential statistics were developed assuming a binary statistical model, using the weighted scores from each of the factors. An overall usability score was calculated.

RESULTS:

The method we developed discriminated between usability of different product types. The overall score for the disposable pull-up product (90%; CI: 83%-97%) was better (P < .05) than for the disposable T-shaped brief (83%; CI: 77%-89%), the disposable brief (53%; CI: 45%-61%), and the disposable body-worn pad with mesh pant (61%; CI: 56%-66%) in standing patients. For lying patients, the overall score for the disposable T-shaped brief product (81%; CI: 73%-89% was better (P < .05) than the disposable brief (65%; CI: 45%-61%) and the disposable body-worn pads with mesh brief (62%; CI: 55%-69%). Reliability was evaluated quantitatively in terms of measurement uncertainties in the results.

CONCLUSION:

The method we described demonstrated differentiation of usability based on product type indicating concurrent validity. Further testing in diverse real-world care environments is needed to evaluate and confirm the validity and to assess reliability of this method in the research setting.
Advanced Techniques in the Use of Negative Pressure Wound Therapy for Closure of Complex Neonatal Abdominal Wounds
Authors: Bayci Andrew , Akay Begum
Published: September 2018

BACKGROUND:

Negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) has been described for closure of complex neonatal abdominal wounds, but advanced techniques for stoma or fistula control, skin protection, and the use of high pressure therapy not as well established.

CASES:

We identified neonatal patients at our institution who received NPWT for a complex abdominal wound, defined as a wound associated with a stoma or fistula with partial or complete dehiscence of the abdominal fascia or skin. We then reviewed techniques for decreasing wound contamination and protecting the newborn's skin. One patient had an especially complex wound; she was born at ∼23 weeks' gestational age (birth weight 580 g). She developed necrotizing enterocolitis and strictures, requiring multiple surgeries to relieve obstruction, ultimately resulting in an end ileostomy with mucous fistula. She suffered from wound dehiscence and retraction of her surgically created stoma, resulting in a complex abdominal wound with significant damage to the surrounding skin. We used advanced NPWT techniques to heal her wound, including topical skin protectants, placement of an adhesive dressing over the skin prior to placement of negative pressure dressing, placement of a negative pressure sponge directly on the wound bed and stoma, diversion of enteric contents away from the wound using a Malecot catheter, and an increase in the negative pressure applied.

CONCLUSION:

Complex neonatal abdominal wounds can be treated effectively using NPWT. The techniques we describe divert enteric contents away from the wound bed while maintaining negative pressure and protecting the surrounding skin. In addition, we used negative pressure up to −125 mm Hg and found it was well tolerated by our patients.
Towards understanding cancer stem cell heterogeneity in the tumor microenvironment
Authors: Bocci Federico , Gearhart-Serna Larisa , Boareto Marcelo , Ribeiro Mariana , Ben-Jacob Eshel , Devi Gayathri R. , Levine Herbert , Nelson Onuchic José , Jolly Mohit Kumar
Published: September 2018

The Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT) and Cancer Stem Cell (CSC) formation are two paramount processes driving tumor progression, therapy resistance and cancer metastasis. Some recent experiments show that cells with varying EMT and CSC phenotypes are spatially segregated in the primary tumor. The underlying mechanisms generating such spatiotemporal dynamics and heterogeneity in the tumor micro-environment, however, remain largely unexplored. Here, we show through a mechanism-based dynamical model that the diffusion of EMT-inducing signals such as TGF-β in a tumor tissue, together with non-cell autonomous control of EMT and CSC decision-making via juxtacrine signaling mediated via the Notch signaling pathway, can explain experimentally observed disparate localization of subsets of CSCs with varying EMT states in the tumor. Our simulations show that the more mesenchymal CSCs lie at the invasive edge, while the hybrid epithelial/mesenchymal (E/M) CSCs reside in the tumor interior. Further, motivated by the role of Notch-Jagged signaling in mediating EMT and stemness, we investigated the microenvironmental factors that promote Notch-Jagged signaling. We show that many inflammatory cytokines that can promote Notch-Jagged signaling such as IL-6 can (a) stabilize a hybrid E/M phenotype, (b) increase the likelihood of spatial proximity of hybrid E/M cells, and (c) expand the fraction of CSCs. To validate the predicted connection between Notch-Jagged signaling and stemness, we knocked down JAG1 in hybrid E/M SUM149 human breast cancer cellsin vitro. JAG1 knockdown significantly restricted organoid formation, confirming the key role that Notch-Jagged signaling can play in tumor progression. Together, our integrated computational-experimental framework reveals the underlying principles of spatiotemporal dynamics of EMT and CSCs in the tumor microenvironment.

Significance statement

The presence of heterogeneous subsets of cancer stem cells (CSCs) remains a clinical challenge. These subsets often occupy different regions in the primary tumor and have varied epithelial-mesenchymal phenotypes. Here, we device a theoretical framework to investigate how the tumor microenvironment (TME) modulates this spatial patterning. We find that a spatial gradient of EMT-inducing signal, coupled with juxtacrine Notch-JAG1 signaling triggered by inflammatory cytokines in TME, explains this spatial heterogeneity. Finally,in vitroJAG1 knockdown experiments in triple negative breast cancer cells severely restricts the growth of tumor organoid, hence validating the association between JAG1 and CSC fraction. Our results offer insights into principles of spatiotemporal patterning in TME, and identifies a relevant target to alleviate multiple CSC subsets – JAG1.
Mitochondrial network state scales mtDNA genetic dynamics
Authors: Aryaman Juvid , Bowles Charlotte , Jones Nick S. , Johnston Iain G.
Published: September 2018

Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) mutations cause severe congenital diseases but may also be associated with healthy aging. MtDNA is stochastically replicated and degraded, and exists within organelles which undergo dynamic fusion and fission. The role of the resulting mitochondrial networks in the time evolution of the cellular proportion of mutated mtDNA molecules (heteroplasmy), and cell-to-cell variability in heteroplasmy (heteroplasmy variance), remains incompletely understood. Heteroplasmy variance is particularly important since it modulates the number of pathological cells in a tissue. Here, we provide the first wide-reaching theoretical framework which bridges mitochondrial network and genetic states. We show that, under a range of conditions, the (genetic) rate of increase in heteroplasmy variance andde novomutation are proportionally modulated by the (physical) fraction of unfused mitochondria, independently of the absolute fission-fusion rate. In the context of selective fusion, we show that intermediate fusion/fission ratios are optimal for the clearance of mtDNA mutants. Our findings imply that modulating network state, mitophagy rate and copy number to slow down heteroplasmy dynamics when mean heteroplasmy is low could have therapeutic advantages for mitochondrial disease and healthy aging.
Toward a political economy of corporate governance change and stability in family business groups
Authors: Ahmed Shaila , Uddin Shahzad
Published: September 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to elaborate a political economy of corporate governance (CG) change and stability in family business groups (BGs) and assist in explaining why certain CG reforms fail in one context but work in others.

Design/methodology/approach

Three BGs in Bangladesh are studied. A mixture of data sources is used, namely interviews, observations of practices, historical documentation, company reports and research papers and theses. The results are analysed by applying Archer’s morphogenetic approach, focussing on both macro- and micro-processes of change.

Findings

A newly-adopted CG framework, which created incentives and pressures for family directors to act in the best interests of general shareholders, did not seem to alter apparently simple but complex internal structural set-ups. Thus, regulatory efforts to empower general shareholders did not produce the expected results. Following Archer’s morphogenetic approach, the authors identify key structural conditioning or emergent properties and agential strategies to explain why and how BGs opted for symbolic compliance and achieved lax regulation and enforcement.

Research limitations/implications

The paper opens up a new methodological and theoretical space for future CG research, especially by applying a meta-theoretical guideline such as the morphogenetic approach, for nuanced explanation and a more inclusive understanding of CG practices, reform and change in different organisational and institutional settings.

Originality/value

The morphogenetic approach aids in developing a political economy of CG change and stability and provides a nuanced explanation of CG practices. This is illustrated through an exploration of CG change initiatives in Bangladeshi BGs.
Motion in frequency domain for harmonic balance simulation of electrical machines
Authors: Wick Markus , Grabmaier Sebastian , Juettner Matthias , Rucker Wolfgang
Published: September 2018

Purpose

The high computational effort of steady-state simulations limits the optimization of electrical machines. Stationary solvers calculate a fast but less accurate approximation without eddy-currents and hysteresis losses. The harmonic balance approach is known for efficient and accurate simulations of magnetic devices in the frequency domain. But it lacks an efficient method for the motion of the geometry.

Design/methodology/approach

The high computational effort of steady-state simulations limits the optimization of electrical machines. Stationary solvers calculate a fast but less accurate approximation without eddy-currents and hysteresis losses. The harmonic balance approach is known for efficient and accurate simulations of magnetic devices in the frequency domain. But it lacks an efficient method for the motion of the geometry.

Findings

The three-phase symmetry reduces the simulated geometry to the sixth part of one pole. The motion transforms to a frequency offset in the angular Fourier series decomposition. The calculation overhead of the Fourier integrals is negligible. The air impedance approximation increases the accuracy and yields a convergence speed of three iterations per decade.

Research limitations/implications

Only linear materials and two-dimensional geometries are shown for clearness. Researchers are encouraged to adopt recent harmonic balance findings and to evaluate the performance and accuracy of both formulations for larger applications.

Practical implications

This method offers fast-frequency domain simulations in the optimization process of rotating machines and so an efficient way to treat time-dependent effects such as eddy-currents or voltage-driven coils.

Originality/value

This paper proposes a new, efficient and accurate method to simulate a rotating machine in the frequency domain.
The power of localism during the long-term disaster recovery process
Authors: Marchezini Victor
Published: September 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyze some barriers and the “drivers of localism” during the long-term disaster recovery process. The main question is: what types of discourses and practices about localism are being heard and revealed in the frontline?

Design/methodology/approach

Fieldwork, which was conducted from January 2010 to June 2013, consisted of participant observation and qualitative data collection. The authors opted for an approach that privileges narrative and observation, dialoguing with participants to gather local knowledge and information. Data were analyzed in light of the disaster recovery literature, focusing on disaster recovery as an expression of power relations.

Findings

Localism has been framed in diverse ways according to the interests of social groups placed in contextual meanings and, sometimes, in different phases of risk and disaster management. One important driver of localism is disaster narrative framing that allowed identification of how localism is composed, by whom and how.

Research limitations/implications

One important aspect that needs further research is longitudinal studies to investigate how the barriers are changing between the generations, and how intergenerational dialogues can be promoted to sustain long-term participation and localism.

Originality/value

This study recommends the need to identify who is talking about the importance of local and how localism has been framed in policy and action. It is important to empower localism in order to provide ways for local people sharing what is going on in the frontline. But it is also essential to provide funding and means of implementation for local initiatives regarding advocating, researching and proposing disaster recovery interventions led by people.
Logistics resources, capabilities and operational performance
Authors: Lyu Gaoyan , Chen Lihua , Huo Baofeng
Published: September 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate how different logistics resources and resource patterns, such as logistics infrastructure, logistics location, logistics knowledge and logistics information, affect logistics capabilities and operational performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on data collected from 273 companies in China, this study examines impacts of individual logistics resource dimensions on resource integration capability, customer service capability and operational performance through contingency approach. Furthermore, three logistics resource patterns are identified and linked with resource integration capability and operational performance through configuration approach.

Findings

Contingency results show that different logistics resources have different impacts on resource integration capability and operational performance. Configuration results reveal that companies’ capabilities and operational performance vary for different logistics resource patterns: the high-uniform pattern has a better resource integration capability and operational performance than other patterns, while all logistics resource patterns have similar customer service capability levels.

Research limitations/implications

Future studies should examine other resource capabilities and performance indicators of companies and extend this study to other countries and regions.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the logistics resource literature through empirically investigating relationships among logistics resources, resource integration capability and operational performance using contingency approach, and through identifying different logistics resource patterns based on configuration approach. The findings extend the logistics resource literature, particularly on research of logistics parks in China.
Understanding service quality: insights from the literature
Authors: Prakash Gyan
Published: September 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to review the service quality (SQ) literature in order to understand issues involved in its conceptualization and operationalization.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses systematic literature review method. The unit of analysis is peer-reviewed journal articles published during 1984 to 2017.

Findings

Findings suggest manufacturing, banking, information technology, higher education, healthcare are the top sectors contributing to the SQ literature. More than 60 models of the SQ have been identified. Service-driven capabilities may be structured along adaptation with strategic drivers and imperatives, learning and alignment, and problem structuring. In doing so the SQ literature is evolving across overlapping phases of conceptualization, expansion, re-conceptualization and integration.

Research limitations/implications

The paper contributes to the body of knowledge by presenting a unified synthesis of more than 814 articles published in the last three decades.

Practical implications

Insights from the paper will help practitioners in understanding customers’ expectations and accordingly configuring effective service delivery systems, setting standards and communicating value to end-customers. This in turn helps them in developing service-based competencies and achievement of competitive advantage.

Social implications

Insights from the paper may help in conceptualizing and delivering SQ-driven public services.

Originality/value

The paper synthesizes and presents various facets of the SQ as a unified body of knowledge.
The post-re/productive: researching the menopause
Authors: Beck Vanessa , Brewis Jo , Davies Andrea
Published: September 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to consider the impact of these experiences on the authors’ work and on the authors.

Design/methodology/approach

Following the publication of the report, the authors undertook collective, autoethnographic memory work that forms the empirical body of the argument. This is presented in 13 vignettes.

Findings

The authors found themselves continually traversing.

Research limitations/implications

The paper analyses the challenges of researching what is a universal experience for women yet also a taboo subject. It discusses the relevant implications for and possible effects on researchers who investigate such topics in organisation and work studies and elsewhere.

Originality/value

Menopause experiences as they connect to work are under-researched per se. The paper extends knowledge of how this research area is not only shaped by researchers but has an impact on those researchers.
Risk shifting elimination and risk sharing exposure in equity-based financing – a theoretical exposition
Authors: Hamzah Siti Raihana , Ishak Norizarina , Rasedee Ahmad Fadly Nurullah
Published: September 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine incentives for risk shifting in debt- and equity-based contracts based on the critiques of the similarities between sukuk and bonds.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper uses a theoretical and mathematical model to investigate whether incentives for risk taking exist in: debt contracts; and equity contracts.

Findings

Based on this theoretical model, it argues that risk shifting behaviour exists in debt contracts only because debt naturally gives rise to risk shifting behaviour when the transaction takes place. In contrast, equity contracts, by their very nature, involve sharing transactional risk and returns and are thus thought to make risk shifting behaviour undesirable. Nonetheless, previous researchers have found that equity-based financing also might carry risk shifting incentives. Even so, this paper argues that the amount of capital provided and the underlying assets must be considered, especially in the event of default. Through mathematical modelling, this element of equity financing can make risk shifting unattractive, thus making equity financing more distinct than debt financing.

Research limitations/implications

Global awareness of the dangers of debt should be increased as a means of reducing the amount of debt outstanding globally. Although some regulators suggest that sukuk replaces debt, they must also be aware that imitative sukuk poses the same threat to efforts to avoid debt. In short, efforts to ensure future financial stability cannot address only debts or bonds but must also address those types of sukuk that mirrors bonds in their operation. In the wake of the global financial crisis, amid the frantic search for ways of protecting against future financial shocks, this analysis aims to help create future stability by encouraging market players to avoid debt-based activities and promoting equity-based instruments.

Practical implications

This paper’s findings are relevant for countries that feature more than one type of financial market (e.g. Islamic and conventional) because risk shifting behaviour can degrade economic and financial stability.

Originality/value

This paper differs from the previous literature in two important ways, viewing risk shifting behaviour not only in relation to debt or bonds but also when set against debt-based sukuk, which has been subjected to similar criticism. Indeed, to the extent that debts and bonds encourage risk shifting behaviour and threaten the entire financial system, so, too, can imitation sukuk or debt-based sukuk. Second, this paper is unique in exploring the ability of equity features to curb equityholders’ incentive to engage in risk shifting behaviour. Such an examination is necessary for the wake of the global financial crisis, for researchers and economists now agree that risk shifting must be controlled.
Chronicles of one woman’s journey towards well-being: response-ability
Authors: Mullen Jo
Published: September 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to share the experiences and reflections of one woman’s journey towards well-being.

Design/methodology/approach

A narrative approach has been taken to structure reflections based on a lived experience.

Findings

Reflections are offered based on a personal journey towards well-being.

Originality/value

This paper adds to the accounts of the lived experience of the journey towards well-being, and as such, contributes to the understanding of the process of rebuilding a life.
Sojourning and emigration: emigrant communities in Chaoshan area (1949-1958)
Authors: Wang Hui
Published: September 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore how the Chaozhou-speaking communities in northeast Guangdong Province dealt with new barriers of border control during the 1950s, and how they circumvented these institutional obstacles to leave China for Hong Kong and Southeast Asia. The emigration process was reshaped by new social and political forces in Maoist China. How did the Chaoshan people apply for the travel permit to leave China? How did they enter the hosting countries? How did the emigration experience influence the identity formation of Chaoshan Chinese in the 1950s?

Design/methodology/approach

This paper draws on archival sources, memoirs and interviews to demonstrate the ways in which Chaoshan people pursued new strategies of emigration during the 1950s.

Findings

In Maoist China, the application for an entry-exit permit was a rather complicated bureaucratic process for ordinary people. One needs to consider the class status, geographical origins and overseas connections of the applicants as well as the changing official policies toward overseas Chinese.

Research limitations/implications

This paper emphasizes on the impacts of emigration experience on the identity formation of Chaoshan people and the incremental transformation of these emigrant communities in Guangdong Province.

Practical implications

This scholarly finding throws light on the transformation of Chaoshan from a fluid, mobile maritime environment to an increasingly state-centric agrarian society during the 1950s.

Originality/value

This paper is an original scholarly study of the history of Chaoshan communities in South China and their emigration to Southeast Asia.
Comparing contemporary medical treatment practices aimed at intersex/DSD bodies in Israel and Germany
Authors: Danon Limor Meoded
Published: September 2018

Recently, new laws and medical guidelines in many countries have prohibited early genital surgeries and irreversible medical treatment for intersexed babies. Following the passing of the German law that allows parents to register intersexed babies with no sex/gender, and after the establishment of new medical guidelines for intersexed patients in Israel, this study aims to examine the current medical policies regarding intersexed bodies at DSD centres and hospitals in Israel and Germany. How, if at all, have they changed the previous medical guidelines? This is a narrative study that includes 62 in‐depth interviews with medical professionals, parents and intersexed people from Germany and Israel. Three main controversial themes are examined, including the situated diagnostic medical gaze, the surgical practices for normalising intersexed bodies and the concealment of intersexed bodies. I find that in Israeli hospitals, early irreversible surgeries for ‘ambiguous genitals’ and the removal of internal sex organs are taking place frequently, whereas in Germany, the three DSD centres examined offer psychological counselling for parents instead of early surgeries for their babies. While in Israel concealment practices are embodied in the medical policy, the DSD centres in Germany encourage openness and peer group support.
Injury‐Related Healthcare Use and Risk of Filicide Victimization: A Population‐Based Case–Control Study
Authors: Bäckström Björn , Hedlund Jonatan , Masterman Thomas , Sturup Joakim
Published: September 2018

Research on child‐related risk factors for filicide is scant. We investigated whether prior healthcare use for injury (including poisoning) influences filicide risk. Victims (0–14 years; n = 71) were identified in a national autopsy database for the years 1994–2012 and compared to matched, general population controls (n = 355). Healthcare use data were retrieved from a national patient registry. Risks were estimated using odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). For females, prior inpatient care for injury conferred a statistically significant sevenfold risk (OR = 6.67 [95% CI: 1.49–29.79]), and any prior injury‐related healthcare use conferred a statistically significant fourfold risk (OR = 3.57 [95% CI: 1.13–11.25]), of filicide victimization. No statistically significant risks were found for males. Healthcare personnel should be aware that children treated for injuries, especially females, may be at an elevated risk of filicide victimization. Nevertheless, the filicide base rate remains low, and parents may be stigmatized by unfounded alerts; thus, prudent reflection should precede reports to the authorities.
The Lanthanide Tetrad Effect in Argillic Alteration: An Example from the Jizvan District, Northern Iran
Authors: ABEDINI Ali , REZAEI AZIZI Mansour , CALAGARI Ali Asghar
Published: September 2018

Intrusion of quartz‐monzodioritic igneous bodies of Oligocene age into Eocene lithic crystal tuffs and trachy‐basalts resulted in the occurrence of a widespread argillic alteration zone in the Jizvan district (northern Iran). Mineralogically, the argillic alteration zone includes minerals such as kaolinite, quartz, smectite, pyrophyllite, muscovite‐illite, alunite, rutile, calcite, feldspar, chlorite, hematite and goethite. Therefore, the non‐CHARAC behaviour for trace elements in the argillic samples is reflected in the non‐chondritic Y/Ho and Zr/Hf ratios and the irregular REE patterns, which appear related to the tetrad effect phenomenon. The chondrite‐normalized REE distribution patterns indicate both concave (W‐shaped) and convex (M‐shaped) tetrad effects in the argillic samples. Based on the field evidence and the results from geochemical studies, it can be concluded that the samples from the argillic alteration zone having high fourth tetrad effect values (>0.30) were developed in the fault and breccia zones. The results indicate that factors such as preferential scavenging by Mn‐oxides, crystallization of clay minerals, fluid‐rock interaction, overprint of hypogene mineral assemblage by supergene ones, and the structural control, have all played an important role in the occurrence of tetrad effects in samples of the argillic zone in the Jizvan district.
Provenance Study of Fe–Ti Oxide Minerals in the Quaternary Sediments in Yichang Area and Its Implication of Formation Time of the Yangtze Three Gorges, China
Authors: XIANG Fang , DU Wen , HUANG Henxu , KANG Dongya , ZHU Hongbo , FENG Qin
Published: September 2018

The Three Gorges are considered to be critical to understand the formation of Yangtze River. Recent research results suggest that the Yangtze Three Gorges was created during the Quaternary but the exact time is debatable. Fe–Ti oxide minerals are seldom used to study sediment provenance, expecially using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS). In this study, the provenance of Quaternary sediments in Yichang area, which is located to the east of the Yangtze Three Gorges, was investigated by using SEM and EDS to research Fe–Ti oxides. The Panzhihua vanadium titanomagnetite and Emeishan basalt outcrop are located to the west of the Three Gorges. Further, the materials from them are observed in the Quaternary sediments of Yichang area. Fe–Ti oxide minerals from the Huangling granite are observed in the Yunchi and Shanxiyao Formations, which were formed before 0.75 Ma B.P., whereas Fe–Ti oxide minerals from the Huangling granite, Panzhihua vanadium titanomagnetite, and Emeishan basalt are observed in the riverbed and fifth‐terrace sediments of the Yangtze River, which were formed after 0.73 Ma B.P.. Thus, we can infer that the Three Gorges formed after the deposition of the Shanxi Formation and before the fifth‐terrace; i.e., 0.75–0.73 Ma B.P..
Volume of ropivacaine 0.2% and common peroneal nerve block duration: a randomised, double‐blind cohort trial in healthy volunteers
Authors: Christiansen C. B. , Madsen M. H. , Rothe C. , Andreasen A. M. , Lundstrøm L. H. , Lange K. H. W.
Published: September 2018

The volume‐duration relationship using low concentrations of ropivacaine for peripheral nerve blocks is unknown, even though low concentrations of ropivacaine are increasingly used clinically. We investigated the effect of ropivacaine 0.2% on common peroneal nerve block duration. With ethical committee approval, 60 consenting, healthy volunteers were randomly allocated to receive one of five volumes of ropivacaine 0.2% (2.5, 5.0, 10, 15 or 20 ml) administered by ultrasound‐guided, catheter‐based injection (at 10 ml.min−1) near the common peroneal nerve. Our primary outcome was duration of sensory block, defined by insensitivity to a cold stimulus. Our secondary outcome was duration of motor block. Outcomes were assessed every hour from onset of block to complete remission. Intergroup differences were tested using one‐way ANOVA followed by regression analyses using the 20 ml intervention group as reference. Block durations varied significantly (p < 0.0001) between groups. Mean (SD) sensory block durations were 9.2 (3.3), 12.5 (3.0), 15.5 (4.4), 17.3 (3.5) and 17.3 (4.6) h. Mean (SD) motor block durations were 3.3 (2.1), 7.2 (2.5), 9.2 (2.2), 12.7 (2.5) and 12.5 (2.5) h. Regression analysis showed that the effect of volume on block duration was progressively smaller with increasing volume, reaching a threshold volume above which there was no effect on nerve block duration (10 ml for sensory block and 15 ml for motor block). We conclude that there is a ceiling effect of increasing volume of ropivacaine 0.2% on both sensory and motor block duration of the common peroneal nerve.
Ultrastructure of spermatozoa of members of Calappidae, Aethridae and Menippidae and discussion of their phylogenetic placement
Authors: Camargo Tavani Rocha , Wolf Milena Regina , Mantelatto Fernando L. , Tudge Christopher , Zara Fernando José
Published: September 2018

The families Aethridae and Calappidae were originally considered as part of the same family; however, their morphology and molecular biology separate them into two families. In this context, we describe the ultrastructure of spermatozoa of species of the Calappidae, Aethridae and Menippidae to elucidate the relationships among taxa. The vasa deferentia were submitted to routine protocols for transmission electron microscopy. Our results indicate that the morphology of the spermatozoa of Hepatus pudibundussupports its exclusion from the Superfamily Calappoidea due to the presence of the apical striated layer. The spermatozoa of Menippe nodifrons is very similar to H. pudibundus and corroborates the recent phylogenetic analysis using sequence data of nuclear genes. Moreover, our results evidence two morphological patterns of spermatozoa within Calappidae. Calappa ocellata and C. cinerea show spermatozoa with a wide acrosome vesicle, a thick operculum shaped as a shallow “W” and a large thickened ring. Calappa gallusand C. hepatica show spermatozoa with a longer acrosome vesicle, a pointed operculum and a slender thickened ring. Our ultrastructure results conform with previous molecular proposal and show that spermatozoa ultrastructure can be an effective tool to adjust phylogenetic relationship when used in association with molecular data.
Monocytes accumulate in the airways of children with fatal asthma
Authors: Eguíluz‐Gracia Ibon , Malmstrom Kristiina , Dheyauldeen Sinan Ahmed , Lohi Jouko , Sajantila Antti , Aaløkken Ragnhild , Sundaram Arvind Y. M. , Gilfillan Gregor D. , Makela Mika , Baekkevold Espen S. , Jahnsen Frode L.
Published: September 2018

Background

Activated T helper type 2 (Th2) cells are believed to play a pivotal role in allergic airway inflammation, but which cells attract and activate Th2 cells locally have not been fully determined. Recently, it was shown in an experimental human model of allergic rhinitis (AR) that activated monocytes rapidly accumulate in the nasal mucosa after local allergen challenge, where they promote recruitment of Th2 cells and eosinophils.

Objective

To investigate whether monocytes are recruited to the lungs in paediatric asthma.

Methods

Tissue samples obtained from children and adolescents with fatal asthma attack (n = 12), age‐matched non‐atopic controls (n = 9) and allergen‐challenged AR patients (n = 8) were subjected to in situ immunostaining.

Results

Monocytes, identified as CD68+S100A8/A9+ cells, were significantly increased in the lower airway mucosa and in the alveoli of fatal asthma patients compared with control individuals. Interestingly, cellular aggregates containing CD68+S100A8/A9+ monocytes obstructing the lumen of bronchioles were found in asthmatics (8 out of 12) but not in controls. Analysing tissue specimens from challenged AR patients, we confirmed that co‐staining with CD68 and S100A8/A9 was a valid method to identify recently recruited monocytes. We also showed that the vast majority of accumulating monocytes both in the lungs and in the nasal mucosa expressed matrix metalloproteinase 10, suggesting that this protein may be involved in their migration within the tissue.

Conclusions and clinical relevance

Monocytes accumulated in the lungs of children and adolescents with fatal asthma attack. This finding strongly suggests that monocytes are directly involved in the immunopathology of asthma and that these pro‐inflammatory cells are potential targets for therapy.
Routine splenic flexure mobilization may increase compliance with pathological quality metrics in patients undergoing low anterior resection
Authors: Mouw T. J. , King C. , Ashcraft J. H. , Valentino J. D. , DiPasco P. J. , Al‐Kasspooles M.
Published: September 2018

Aim

Mandatory splenic flexure mobilization (SFM) has been debated for rectal cancers. Proponents argue that additional mobilization facilitates a tension‐free anastomosis; however, this must be weighed against heightened morbidity. Little is known about the impact of specific techniques on pathology quality metrics. We aim to determine the impact of SFM on pathology quality metrics for patients undergoing rectal resections for colorectal adenocarcinoma.

Method

Patients were selected by querying the University of Kansas electronic medical records and the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database based on Current Procedural Terminology codes. Patients were categorized as SFM or non‐SFM. Primary outcomes were node yield less than 12 and margin length.

Results

There were 146 patients who met the inclusion criteria for chart review and 7369 included from the national database. Splenic flexure mobilization was associated with wider margins (3.52 vs 2.51 cm in low anterior resection, P < 0.01) and a decreased rate of inadequate nodal staging in patients undergoing low anterior resection (3.7% vs 19.3% P < 0.01).

Conclusions

SFM may affect surgical quality metrics in patients undergoing resection for distal colon and rectal adenocarcinoma. Further study is warranted to determine whether these differences in quality and pathology translate into differences in oncological outcomes.
Prognostic values of long noncoding RNA PVT1 in various carcinomas: An updated systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Xiao Meizhu , Feng Ying , Liu Chongdong , Zhang Zhenyu
Published: September 2018

Cancers have been a worldwide health problem with a high mortality rate, but ideal biomarkers are not available to effectively screen and diagnose patients. Currently, an increasing number of long noncoding RNAs have been reported to be abnormally expressed in human carcinomas and play a vital role in tumourigenesis. Plasmacytoma variant translocation 1 (PVT1) is upregulated in various carcinomas, and its overexpression is associated with poor survival in cancer patients. We conduct an updated meta‐analysis to determine its potential in prognosis for tumours. In total, 14 studies comprising 2435 patients were enrolled according to Reporting Recommendations for Tumour Marker Prognostic Studies guidelines. High PVT1 expression indicated poor overall survival (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.98, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.62‐2.42, P < 0.00001) and disease‐free survival (HR = 1.63, 95% CI: 1.45‐1.84, P < 0.00001). Additionally, increased PVT1 expression was positively associated with lymphatic node metastasis (odd ratio [OR] = 2.87, 95% CI: 1.66‐4.96, P = 0.0002), distant metastasis (OR = 2.47, 95% CI: 1.74‐3.50, P < 0.00001), advanced tumour‐node‐metastasis stages (OR = 2.59, 95% CI: 1.38‐4.88, P = 0.003). New findings highlight that PVT1 acts as competing RNA to microRNAs to protect mRNAs from miRNAs repression. Therefore, we also discuss PVT1‐related microRNAs and their interaction in tumourigenesis. In conclusion, PVT1 may be a potential biomarker of poor prognosis for patients with different cancer types.
Is an artificial pancreas (closed‐loop system) for Type 1 diabetes effective?
Authors: Boughton C. K. , Hovorka R.
Published: September 2018

The artificial pancreas is now a viable treatment option for people with Type 1 diabetes and has demonstrated improved glycaemic outcomes while also reducing the onus of self‐management of Type 1 diabetes. Closed‐loop glucose‐responsive insulin delivery guided by real‐time sensor glucose readings can accommodate highly variable day‐to‐day insulin requirements and reduce the hypoglycaemia risk observed with tight glycaemic control in Type 1 diabetes. In 2011, the James Lind Alliance research priorities for Type 1 diabetes were produced and priority 3 was to establish whether an artificial pancreas (closed‐loop system) for Type 1 diabetes is effective. This review focuses on the progress that has been made in the evolution of closed‐loop systems as an effective treatment option for Type 1 diabetes. Development of closed‐loop systems has advanced from feasibility evaluations in highly supervised settings over short periods, to clinical studies in free‐living, unsupervised conditions lasting several months. The approval in the USA of the first hybrid closed‐loop system (MiniMed® 670G pump, Medtronic, Northridge, CA, USA) in 2016 for use in Type 1 diabetes reflects these advancements. We discuss the evidence from clinical studies that closed‐loop systems are effective with improved glycaemic outcomes, reduced hypoglycaemia and had positive end‐user acceptance in children, adolescents, adults and pregnant women with Type 1 diabetes. We also present the outlook for future closed‐loop systems in the treatment of Type 1 diabetes and identify the challenges facing the wide‐spread clinical adoption of this technology.
The economics of transition literature
Authors: Olofsgård Anders , Wachtel Paul , Becker Charles M.
Published: September 2018

This article is based on a panel discussion on the contribution of the economics of transition literature to the broader understanding of economic and social development. All panel participants have been working in the field for decades and made important contributions to this literature. The transition experience was a social experiment on a scale not seen before, and many lessons were learned that travel beyond the specific region. Important contributions in areas such as political economy, contract theory, and the sequencing and complementarity of reforms were discussed. It was concluded that there is little reason at this point to consider economics of transition and development economics as separate subfields as they share the same intellectual objective, and complement each other in our understanding of the development process.
Insight into epileptic and physiological déjà vu: from a multicentric cohort study
Authors: Labate A. , Baggetta R. , Trimboli M. , Tripepi G. , Bisulli F. , D'Aniello A. , Daniele O. , Di Bonaventura C. , Di Gennaro G. , Fattouch J. , Ferlazzo E. , Ferrari A. , Gasparini S. , Giallonardo A. , La Neve A. , Romigi A. , Sofia V. , Tinuper P. , Zummo L. , Aguglia U. , Gambardella A.
Published: September 2018

Background and purpose

The presence of a continuum between physiological déjà vu (DV) and epileptic DV is still not known as well as epidemiological data in the Italian population. The aim was to identify the epidemiological distribution of DV in Italy, and secondly to look for specific features of DV able to discriminate between epileptic and non‐epileptic DV.

Methods

In all, 1000 individuals, 543 healthy controls (C) (313 women; age 40 ± 15 years) and 457 patients with epilepsy (E) (260 women; age 39 ± 14 years), were prospectively recruited from 10 outpatient neurological clinics throughout Italy. All populations were screened using the Italian Inventory for Déjà Vu Experiences Assessment (I‐IDEA) test and E and pairwise C underwent a comprehensive epilepsy interview.

Results

Of E, 69% stated that they experienced ‘recognition’ and 13.2% reported that this feeling occurred from a few times a month to at least weekly (versus 7.7% of the control group). Furthermore, a greater percentage of E (6.8% vs. 2.2%) reported that from a few times a month to at least weekly they felt that it seemed as though everything around was not real. In E, the feeling of recognition raised fright (22.3% vs. 13.2%) and a sense of oppression (19.4% vs. 9.4%). A fifth of E felt recognition during epileptic seizures.

Conclusion

Only E regardless of aetiology firmly answered that they had the feeling of recognition during an epileptic seizure; thus question 14 of the I‐IDEA test part 2 discriminated E from C. Paranormal activity, remembering dreams and travel frequency were mostly correlated to DV in E suggesting that the visual–memory network might be involved in epileptic DV.