bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Smoking and Promoter-Specific Deoxyribonucleic Acid Methylation of the Atrial Natriuretic Peptide Gene: Methylation of Smokers and Non-Smokers Differs Significantly during Withdrawal
Authors: Glahn Alexander , Rhein Mathias , Frieling Helge , Schuster Rilana , El Aissami Alain , Bleich Stefan , Hillemacher Thomas , Muschler Marc
Published: January 2018

Background: Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) is well known in psychiatric disorders to modulate hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis activity. Disturbances of ANP have been described in early abstinent alcohol-dependent patients. This is the first longitudinal investigation on cytosine-phosphatidyl-guanine (CpG)-island promoter methylation of the ANP gene in the blood of tobacco-dependent patients. Methods: In a longitudinal approach, we investigated whether changes in ANP serum levels correlated to CpG methylation of the respective gene promoters on days 1, 7, and 14 of tobacco withdrawal. Results and Conclusion: Compared to non-smokers, promoter-related deoxyribonucleic acid methylation of the ANP promoter was significantly elevated on days 7 and 14 of withdrawal in tobacco-dependent patients. Baseline methylation status of the ANP promoter was not significantly different from controls, arguing for an impaired regulation during withdrawal.
The Impact of Arterial Clamping Technique in Robot-Assisted Partial Nephrectomy on Renal Function and Surgical Outcomes: Six-Year Experience at Siriraj Hospital, Thailand
Authors: Taweemonkongsap Tawatchai , Suk-Ouichai Chalairat , Chotikawanich Ekkarin , Jitpraphai Siros , Woranisarakul Varat , Ramart Patkawat , Phinthusophon Kittipong , Amornvesukit Teerapon , Leewansangtong Sunai , Srinualnad Sittiporn , Nualyong Chaiyong
Published: January 2018

Introduction: Robot-assisted partial nephrectomy (RAPN) with different arterial clamping techniques has increasingly been performed to avoid ischemic injury to nephron. However, postoperative renal function remains controversial. We determine the impact of each renal arterial clamping on surgical and renal outcomes after RAPN. Materials and Methods: Patients who underwent RAPN at Siriraj Hospital from 2010 to 2016 were retrospectively reviewed and stratified into 3 cohorts: main-clamp (MAC), selective-clamp, and off-clamp. Results: Main, selective, and off-clamping were performed in 27, 38, and 12, respectively. Median tumor size and Radius, Exophytic or endophytic, Nearness to collecting system or sinus, Anterior or posterior, and Location relative to polar lines (RENAL) score were 3 cm and 7, respectively. Longer operative time was observed in MAC (p = 0.002) although estimated blood loss, transfusion rate, and complication were comparable. Warm ischemia time was not different between cohorts. However, number of patients with prolonged ischemia time in MAC were greater (p ≤ 0.01). All margins were negative. Median postoperative and latest glomerular filtration rate reduction were 3.8 and 5.3 mL/min/1.73 m2, respectively without significant difference between cohorts. On multivariable analysis, hypertension independently associated with reduced renal function preserved (p = 0.03). Median follow-up was 18 months. Conclusions: Our study is the first to report surgical and renal functional outcomes after RAPN in Southeast-Asian population. Based on our experience, clamping techniques does not impact on renal functions and complication rate was low even in small-volume center.
Adherence to the European Association of Urology Guidelines: A National Survey among Italian Urologists
Authors: Cacciamani Giovanni , Artibani Walter , Briganti Alberto , N’Dow James
Published: January 2018

Objective: The study aimed to explore adherence to the European Urological Association (EAU) Guidelines (GLs) grade A recommendation among Italian urologists. Materials and Methods: A 13-item multiple-choice questionnaire covering oncological and non-oncological urological diseases was e-mailed to all Italian Urologist Society (Società Italiana di Urologia or SIU) members. We asked members to provide an explanation for their answer choice where needed. The quantitative data were tested using the Pearson’s chi-square test. For all statistical comparisons, significance was considered as p < 0.05. Results: Of the 2011 invited SIU members, 210 (10.4%) completed the survey. The sample was composed of 22 (10.5%) Academic Urologists (AcUs), 110 (52.4%) Attending Urologists (AtUs), 32 (15.2%) Private Practice Urologists (PPUs), and 41 (19.5%) Residents in Urology (RUs). The mean adherence to the EAU Oncologic GLs ranged from 54.5 to 97.1%, while the adherence to the non-oncologic GLs ranged from 45 to 87.6%. We found that adherence differed across the working categories assessed. Conclusion: Our survey showed that professional role, updates, and local facilities seem to be the drivers that influence the non-adherence to the GLs. Urologists who work in university hospital would be more inclined to adopt the GLs compared to those who practice in non-academic centers.
The Practical Management of Chronic Pancreatitis: A Multidisciplinary Symposium Held at the Annual Meeting of the Pancreatic Society of Great Britain and Ireland, Manchester 2016
Authors: Jegatheeswaran Santhalingam , Puleston Joanne M. , Duggan Sinead , Hart Andrew , Conlon Kevin C. , Siriwardena Ajith K.
Published: January 2018

Aim: This study is about a questionnaire survey of delegates attending the chronic pancreatitis symposium at the 2016 meeting of the Pancreatic Society of Great Britain and Ireland and seeks a multidisciplinary “snapshot” overview of practice. Methods: A questionnaire was developed with multidisciplinary input. Questions on access to specialist care, methods of diagnosis and treatment including specific scenarios were incorporated. Eighty-three (66%) of 125 delegates effectively participated in this survey. Results: Twenty-four (29%) had neither a chronic pancreatitis MDT in their hospital nor a chronic pancreatitis referral MDT. Most frequently utilised diagnostic modalities were CT, MR and EUS with no respondents utilising duodenal intubation tests. Initial treatment was provided through non-opiate analgesia by 69 (93%), through the use of opiates by 56 (76%) and through the use of co-analgesics by 49 (66%). Fifty two (68%) routinely referred patients with alcohol-related disease for counselling. Preferred treatment for large duct disease without mass was endoscopic therapy. In older patients with a mass, pancreaticoduodenectomy was preferred. Conclusion: This is a small study likely to be skewed by sampling bias but is thought to be the first multidisciplinary survey of the management of chronic pancreatitis in the United Kingdom and Ireland. The results show a need for comprehensive access to specialist pancreatitis MDT care and there remains substantial variation in management.
Desenclavar as ciências sociais na África lusófona: a Iniciativa Especial do CODESRIA
Authors: Cardoso Carlos
Published: January 2018

Este artigo analisa a Iniciativa Especial para a África Lusófona do Conselho para o Desenvolvimento da Pesquisa em Ciências Sociais em África (CODESRIA), inserindo-a no âmbito dos esforços que o Conselho tem feito para lutar contra a fragmentação da produção científica no continente e o perigo do isolamento de certas comunidades científicas. Adotando uma perspetiva histórica, começa por abordar a trajetória das ciências sociais nesses países, mas também discorre sobre o contexto epistêmico em que elas se desenvolvem, nomeadamente, a crise em que as escassas instituições de pesquisa foram mergulhando nas últimas décadas, a insipiência do sistema de Ensino Superior e a fraca participação do Estado no financiamento dessas instituições. Com este pano de fundo, são analisados os desafios que se colocam às ciências sociais em países africanos, bem como algumas iniciativas que têm surgido no domínio de estudos sociais. Por fim, são analisados os elos de ligação existentes entre as atividades do CODESRIA, a Iniciativa Lusófona e a integração dos cientistas sociais africanos lusófonos nos programas deste Conselho.
Navegar é preciso, viver também é preciso: ideias iniciais sobre a organização e a percepção de tempo de marinheiros brasileiros em navio polar
Authors: Hissa Sarah De Barros Viana
Published: January 2018

A pesquisa científica brasileira na Antártica se dá desde 1982, com apoio logístico da Marinha Brasileira. Após uma permanência relativamente breve nos navios polares, busca-se discutir como os marinheiros percebem o tempo e sua passagem. Discutiu-se a percepção do tempo a partir de três vieses: atividades desempenhadas, movimentos de retenção e protensão da consciência e algumas festividades observadas. Percebeu-se que um desejo de que o tempo passe rapidamente e que as atividades, sejam de lazer ou de trabalho, proporcionam uma sensação de passagem rápida de tempo. A lembrança de casa se faz constante, sugerindo uma presença parcial dos marinheiros naquele espaço, onde outros locais e momentos são chamados a habitar a Antártica. Neste sentido, as festas poderão significar, para os marinheiros, uma forma de intensificação do presente.
Religião evangélica e suas respostas às mulheres: aborto, direito e prosperidade
Authors: Rosas Nina
Published: January 2018

Religião evangélica e suas respostas às mulheres: aborto, direito e prosperidade
“Olhares compartilhados”: (des)continuidades, interseccionalidade e desafios da relação Sul-Sul. Entrevista com Zethu Matebeni
Authors: Tiriba Thais , Moutinho Laura
Published: January 2018

Ao perguntarmos para a professora da University of Cape Town (UCT) como deveríamos apresentá-la nas conferências proferidas nos seminários Enlaçando Sexualidades (UNEB) e Numas Apresenta (USP), que ocorreram na primeira semana de setembro deste ano, respectivamente em Salvador e São Paulo, Zethu Matebeni foi taxativa: “sou uma ativista na academia”. A resposta não foi surpresa para aqueles que, como nós, conhecíamos as trajetórias de pesquisa e engajamentos desta que se revela antropóloga através de um sensível olhar etnográfico, documentarista, roteirista, com formação em sociologia University of Port Elizabeth (atualmente Mandela Metropolitan University) e PhD realizado entre a Yale University (Estados Unidos) e a Witwatersrand University (Joanesburgo), no internacionalmente renomado instituto de pesquisa conhecido como WISER.
Southern Perspectives on Gender Relations and Sexualities: A Queer Intervention
Authors: Matebeni Zethu
Published: January 2018

Este artigo parte do contexto sul-africano para repensar a produção de conhecimento sobre relações de gênero e sexualidade. Lidando com a violência brutal e o assassinato de mulheres lésbicas blacks em particular, sigo as maneiras como aquilo que venho chamando de “virada queer” contribuiu simultaneamente com o avanço e a invisibilização de determinadas lutas. Com base na experiência do movimento #RhodesMustFall e algumas produções artísticas e culturais, argumento pela reimaginação queer não apenas em relação a identidades de gênero ou sexuais, mas também como uma forma de desestabilizar noções de pertencimento articuladas pelo racista e heteronormativo projeto neocolonial.
A dialética da máscara negra: nego fugido contra o blackface
Authors: Pinto Monilson Dos Santos
Published: January 2018

Este artigo propõe um diálogo entre as expressões populares da cultura brasileira e o conhecimento hegemônico acadêmico por meio do teatro didático brechtiano, introduzindo reflexões acerca dos aspectos teatrais, corporais, visuais e musicais do Nego Fugido. A comunicação aponta para a necessidade de se pensar um teatro pautado em epistemologia da resistência negra e em estéticas quilombolas como possibilidades de criação cênica para grupos de teatro negro de periferia. A máscara negra da cultura popular e o blackface aparecem em oposição para revelar como elementos cênicos e aspectos teatrais dessas expressões populares são malcompreendidos, malbaratados e, muitas vezes, apropriados de forma insipiente por alguns encenadores e grupos de teatro contemporâneos.
Militância cênica no teatro negro brasileiro
Authors: Freitas Régia Mabel da Silva
Published: January 2018

Esta pesquisa investiga a militância cênica no teatro negro brasileiro. De natureza qualitativa, cunho etnográfico e percurso exploratório-descritivo, os dados foram coletados com revisão bibliográfica e análise documental. O referencial teórico aporta-se em livros, revistas, produções acadêmicas, sites, blogs, vídeos, documentários entre outras fontes que abordam o teatro negro como elemento de resistência e difusor de questões da negritude. Percebeu-se que cotidianamente os atores sempre discutiram com denodo em seus espetáculos a luta pela cidadania plena dos negros em busca da garantia dos seus direitos civis, políticos e sociais. Destarte, considerou-se o teatro mais uma estratégia negra afro-brasileira de resistência.
O jardim das flores de plástico: caminhos poéticos de um teatro negro e periférico
Authors: Monteiro Altemar Di
Published: January 2018

Levantando discussões a partir de O jardim das flores de plástico – Ato 3: por baixo do saco preto, espetáculo-cortejo vencedor do 3º Prêmio Nacional de Expressões Culturais Afro-Brasileiras, montado em 2015 com os atores do Nóis de Teatro, na periferia de Fortaleza, CE, este artigo busca refletir sobre os cruzamentos poéticos e políticos do teatro produzido pelos artistas negros do grupo na tessitura de rearranjos sobre o discurso hegemônico de cidade.
Estrangeiros na metrópole: territórios e fronteiras da alteridade em São Paulo
Authors: Véras Maura Pardini Bicudo
Published: January 2018

In the context of population flows driven by contemporary globalization, the displacements to São Paulo, the major metropolitan center of the country, are charged with multiple layers of meaning. This article seeks to discuss in the light of theoretical, albeit incipient, views the complex net of interpretations both of the integration and resistance of foreigners in the city through the establishment of territorialities, processes of stigmatization and otherness, working and housing conditions, and building ways of living at the margins and in a vulnerable condition.
Histórias do apartheid, memória e pertencimento entre a população da diáspora sul-africana na Austrália
Authors: Sonn Christopher C. , Stevens Garth
Published: January 2018

It has been more than 20 years since the removal of the apartheid system, yet, for those who lived in apartheid South Africa, racialization remains a central feature of their subjectivity both inside and outside of the country. For the South African diaspora in Australia there are contextually specific psychosocial processes, socio-structural arrangements, and meaning systems that need to be negotiated, including the relationship with their home country. In this article, we outline aspects of the Apartheid Archive Project, which seeks to expand the official history through the inclusion of everyday people’s personal stories and narratives of life during apartheid.
Five-Year Mortality After Transient Ischemic Attack
Authors: Yousufuddin Mohammed , Young Nathan , Keenan Lawrence , Olson Tammy , Shultz Jessica , Doyle Taylor , Ahmmad Eimad M. , Arumaithurai Kogulavadanan , Takahashi Paul , Murad Mohammad Hassan
Published: January 2018

Background and Purpose—

We aimed at providing estimates of mortality associated with cardiometabolic comorbidity and incident readmission from cardiometabolic as compared with noncardiometabolic conditions after a first transient ischemic attack.

Methods—

Between 2000 and 2015, patients hospitalized for a first transient ischemic attack were examined for cardiometabolic comorbidities (diabetes mellitus, coronary artery disease, heart failure, and atrial fibrillation), 5-year incident hospitalization, and time to death.

Results—

Of 251 patients with transient ischemic attack, 134 (53%) had at least 1 and 55 (22%) had at least 2 cardiometabolic conditions. By 5 years, 491 readmissions (134 [27%] cardiometabolic and 357 [73%] noncardiometabolic) and 75 deaths (27 [36%] cardiometabolic and 47 [64%] noncardiometabolic) were observed. Mortality was increased with any concurrent cardiometabolic comorbidity (hazard ratio, 1.89; 95% confidence interval, 1.17–3.03;
P
=0.0089) with multiplicative mortality risk from a combination of coronary artery disease and heart failure. Each hospitalization was associated with a 1.5-fold risk of death (95% confidence interval, 1.37–1.64;
P
<0.0001). Risk of cardiometabolic and noncardiometabolic mortality was correlated with the corresponding category-specific readmission.

Conclusions—

Among patients hospitalized for first transient ischemic attack, 5-year mortality is associated with concurrent cardiometabolic comorbidity and rates of subsequent hospitalization.
High Neutrophil to Lymphocyte Ratio Is Associated With Symptomatic and Ruptured Thoracic Aortic Aneurysm
Authors: Lareyre Fabien , Raffort Juliette , Le Duy , Chan Hon Lai , Le Houérou Thomas , Cochennec Frédéric , Touma Joseph , Desgranges Pascal
Published: January 2018

The predictive value of the neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) has been demonstrated in several cardiovascular diseases. The aim of our study was to investigate the association between the preoperative NLR and aneurysm characteristics as well as 30-day postoperative morbidity and mortality in patients with thoracic aortic aneurysm (TAA) undergoing aortic surgical repair. Consecutive patients (n = 75) with TAA were retrospectively included over a 10-year period. Clinical characteristics, aneurysm characteristics, and 30-day postoperative outcome were recorded. The median age of patients was 71 (67-80) years. The median preoperative NLR was 3.5 (2.3-5.8). The proportion of asymptomatic TAA was significantly lower in patients with an NLR > 3.5 compared with those with an NLR < 3.5 (52.6% vs 75.7%; P = .054). The proportion of patients with pain or with ruptured TAA was significantly higher in patients with an NLR > 3.5 compared with those with NLR < 3.5 (42.1% vs 16.2%; P = .022 and 26.3% vs 2.7%; P = .007, respectively). No significant difference was observed regarding the 30-day overall postoperative mortality and morbidity. The preoperative NLR did not correlate with TAA diameter. A high preoperative NLR is significantly associated with symptomatic and ruptured TAA, suggesting a potential interest as a marker and/or player in the disease.
Wealth, Social Protection Programs, and Child Labor in Colombia: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Pinzón-Rondón Ángela María , Cifuentes Liseth B. , Zuluaga Catalina , Botero Juan Carlos , Pinzon-Caicedo Mariana
Published: January 2018

This article has 3 main objectives: (1) to assess the prevalence of child labor in Colombia, (2) to identify factors associated with child labor, and (3) to determine whether social protection programs have an association with the prevalence of child labor in the country. Using a cross-sectional study with data from the Colombian Demographic and Health Survey 2010, a working child was defined as a child who worked during the week prior to the survey in an activity other than household chores. Through descriptive statistics, bivariate analysis, and multivariate regressions, it was found that child labor was associated with gender (boys were more likely to work), older age, ethnicity (children from indigenous communities were more likely to be workers), school dropout, disability (children with disabilities were less likely to be working), subsidized health social security system membership, and lower number of years of mother’s schooling. Furthermore, the results of this study suggest that children beneficiaries of the subsidy Familias en Acción were less likely to be working and that social protection programs were more effective to reduce child labor when targeting the lowest wealth quintiles of the Colombian population.
Script Analysis of Open-air Drug Selling
Authors: Sytsma Victoria A. , Piza Eric L.
Published: January 2018

Objectives:

Through the use of closed-circuit television (CCTV) video footage, the current study builds upon the drug transaction work of Piza and Sytsma by developing a crime script for open-air drug selling.

Methods:

Researchers conducted a systematic social observation of CCTV footage of open-air drug markets in Newark, NJ. The data were used to identify sequential stages of drug transactions. Fisher’s exact tests measured whether buyer and seller activities during specific acts of the drug transaction event were related to activities seen in subsequent stages.

Results:

This study finds three distinct acts to open-air drug events. During the pretransaction act, one party (usually the buyer) initiates the transaction. There must then be an exchange of narcotics for money, which typically occurs in one simultaneous transfer and in one location. There is necessarily posttransaction mobility, with sellers most commonly maintaining their anchor point within the drug territory—particularly when the interactions are buyer initiated.

Conclusions:

Results of this study contribute to the crime script and situational crime prevention literatures by demonstrating acts inherent in public drug selling and by advocating for a focus on the posttransaction period and seller anchor points within drug markets through leveraging the sentinel role of police officers.
Cytotoxicity of Ciprofloxacin and Steroids in Mouse Tympanic Membrane Fibroblasts
Authors: Redula Sonny , Antonelli Patrick J. , Dirain Carolyn O.
Published: January 2018

Objective

Ciprofloxacin, commonly given as eardrops, has been shown to adversely affect tympanic membrane fibroblasts. Dexamethasone potentiates this effect. A newly available eardrop contains ciprofloxacin and fluocinolone, a more potent steroid. We evaluated the cytotoxic effects of this preparation on mouse tympanic membrane fibroblasts.

Study Design

Prospective, in vitro.

Setting

Academic laboratory.

Subjects and Methods

In experiment 1, fibroblasts were exposed to 1:10 dilutions of commercially available 0.3% ofloxacin, 0.3% ciprofloxacin, 0.3% ciprofloxacin + 0.1% dexamethasone, 0.3% ciprofloxacin + 0.025% fluocinolone, or dilute hydrochloric acid (control), twice within 24 hours. In experiment 2, cells were also treated with the dilutions of the pure form of dexamethasone 0.1% or fluocinolone 0.025%, alone and in combination with ofloxacin or ciprofloxacin. Cells were exposed to the solutions for 2 hours each time and were placed back in growth media after the treatments. Cells were observed with phase‐contrast microscope until the cytotoxicity assay was performed.

Results

Survival of fibroblasts treated with ofloxacin was not different from the control. Fibroblasts treated with ciprofloxacin, ciprofloxacin + dexamethasone, or ciprofloxacin + fluocinolone had much lower survival (all P <. 0001). Cells treated with ciprofloxacin + fluocinolone had lower survival than ciprofloxacin (P <. 0001) and ciprofloxacin + dexamethasone (P =. 0001). Steroids alone also decreased fibroblast survival compared to control (P <. 0001). The combination of dexamethasone or fluocinolone with ciprofloxacin, but not ofloxacin, further decreased fibroblast survival (P <. 0001). Phase‐contrast images mirrored the cytotoxicity findings.

Conclusion

Tympanic membrane fibroblast cytotoxicity of ciprofloxacin is potentiated by corticosteroids. This effect may be deleterious when treating a healing perforation but beneficial when treating granulation tissue on the tympanic membrane.
Compositional Assessment of Human Tracheal Cartilage by Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Linkov Gary , Hanifi Arash , Yousefi Farzad , Tint Derrick , Bolla Sudheer , Marchetti Nathanial , Soliman Ahmed M. S. , Pleshko Nancy
Published: January 2018

Objectives

To assess the potential of infrared fiber‐optic spectroscopy to evaluate the compositional properties of human tracheal cartilage.

Study Design

Laboratory‐based study.

Methods

Twenty human cadaveric distal tracheas were harvested (age range 20‐78 years; 6 females, 14 males) for compositional analysis. Histologic staining, Fourier transform infrared imaging spectroscopy data on collagen and proteoglycan (PG) content, and near‐infrared (NIR) fiber‐optic probe spectroscopic data that reflect protein and water content were evaluated. NIR fiber‐optic probe data were also obtained from the proximal trachea in 4 human cadavers (age range 51‐65 years; 2 females, 2 males) in situ for comparison to distal trachea spectral data.

Results

In the distal trachea cohort, the spectroscopic‐determined ratio of PG/amide I, indicative of the relative amount of PG, was significantly higher in the tissues from the younger group compared to the older group (0.37 ± 0.08 vs 0.32 ± 0.05, P =. 05). A principal component analysis of the NIR spectral data enabled separation of spectra based on tracheal location, likely due to differences in both protein and water content. The NIR‐determined water content based on the 5200‐cm−1 peak was significantly higher in the distal trachea compared to the proximal trachea (P <. 001).

Conclusions

Establishment of normative compositional values and further elucidating differences between the segments of trachea will enable more directed research toward appropriate compositional end points in regenerative medicine for tracheal repair.
Sequelae of Tympanostomy Tubes in a Multihospital Health System
Authors: Padia Reema , Hall Daniel , Sjogren Phayvanh , Narayanan Prem , Meier Jeremy D.
Published: January 2018

Objectives

Review the incidence of long‐term sequelae after placement of tympanostomy tubes.

Study Design

Case series with chart review.

Setting

Multihospital network.

Subjects

Patients 0 to 3 years old undergoing tympanostomy tube (TT) placement.

Methods

A case series of 14,058 children between 2004 and 2010 was reviewed. The patients were followed for 5 years to determine number of repeated tube placements, need for surgical removal of tubes, and presence of perforation requiring repair.

Results

The study cohort included 14,058 children who underwent TT placement. The mean age at time of procedure was 1.4 years. A total of 14.4% of patients required a second set of tubes within the 5 years of follow‐up studied, and 4.6% required 3 or more sets. Three percent required removal of a tube, and this occurred at an average time of 34.2 ± 17.6 months postplacement. In total, 5.1% had a resulting perforation after either tube extrusion or tube removal requiring myringoplasty.

Conclusions

The rate of multiple tube placements and myringoplasty and tympanoplasty to correct resulting perforations has yet to be studied in a single large population. This information allows for more detailed preoperative counseling to patients and families. Better characterization of these populations with accurate rates of sequelae can help to tailor treatment and preoperative counseling in the future.
Does CPAP Affect Patient‐Reported Voice Outcomes?
Authors: Hartke Vance , Gillespie Amanda , Smith Libby J. , Soose Ryan J.
Published: January 2018

Upper aerodigestive tract symptoms are common in patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). It remains unclear whether continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) improves or worsens these otolaryngology symptoms. As therapy‐related side effects limit CPAP adherence, this study aimed to determine if CPAP negatively affects voice, sinonasal, and reflux symptoms of the upper airway. Case series with planned data collection was performed at an academic otolaryngology sleep center. Newly diagnosed patients with OSA were evaluated before and 6 months after initiating CPAP therapy. Data collected included CPAP data download, Reflux Symptom Index (RSI), Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS), Voice Handicap Index 10 (VHI‐10), Sino‐Nasal Questionnaire (SNQ), and oral dryness visual analog scale (VAS). For the 11 CPAP‐adherent participants, the RSI significantly improved with CPAP (mean RSI, 22.0‐9.5; P =. 002); however, the VAS, VHI‐10, and SNQ did not change after 6 months of CPAP therapy. In a small sample size, patient‐reported voice outcomes (VHI‐10) and other upper aerodigestive tract symptoms did not worsen with CPAP; rather, CPAP therapy was associated with a reduction in reflux symptoms.
First and foreign language early reading abilities: The influence of musical perception
Authors: Gomez-Dominguez Maria , Fonseca-Mora M. Carmen , Machancoses Francisco H.
Published: January 2018

There is a growing body of literature that recognises how music perception affects first-language learning, but much less is known about its influence on foreign-language reading skills. The purpose of this paper is to examine the effect of music perception abilities on the acquisition of some foreign early reading skills based on their transference from first language. Data for this study were collected from 63 Spanish-speaking English-language learners studying second grade of primary school. We used a music perception test and the Early Grade Reading Assessment battery, which measures early reading skills in both languages. A mediation analysis using structural equation modelling was performed, integrating music perception and letter-sound knowledge, initial sound identification, and familiar word and pseudoword reading in Spanish and English. This research provides new insights into how music perception affects early reading skills in both languages. These findings indicate a transfer of music perception abilities to first-language alphabetic principle, phonemic awareness and word recognition skills that affect foreign language early reading abilities.
Concentrations of Blood Components in Commercial Platelet-Rich Plasma Separation Systems: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Oudelaar Bart W. , Peerbooms Joost C. , Huis in ‘t Veld Rianne , Vochteloo Anne J.H.
Published: January 2018

Background:

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has proven to be a very safe therapeutic option in the treatment of tendon, muscle, bone, and cartilage injuries. Currently, several commercial separation systems are available for the preparation of PRP. The concentrations of blood components in PRP among these separation systems vary substantially.

Purpose:

To systematically review and evaluate the differences between the concentrations of blood components in PRP produced by various PRP separation systems.

Study Design:

Systematic review.

Methods:

MEDLINE/PubMed, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), and EMBASE were searched for studies that compared the concentrations of blood components and growth factors in PRP between various separation systems and studies that reported on the concentrations of blood components and growth factors of single separation systems. The primary outcomes were platelet count, leukocyte count, and concentration of growth factors (eg, platelet-derived growth factor–AB [PDGF-AB], transforming growth factor–β1 [TGF-β1], and vascular endothelial growth factor [VEGF]). Furthermore, the preparation protocols and prices of the systems were compared.

Results:

There were 1079 studies found, of which 19 studies were selected for inclusion in this review. The concentrations of platelets and leukocytes in PRP differed largely between, and to a lesser extent within, the studied PRP separation systems. Additionally, large differences both between and within the studied PRP separation systems were found for all the growth factors. Furthermore, preparation protocols and prices varied widely between systems.

Conclusion:

There is a large heterogeneity between PRP separation systems regarding concentrations of platelets, leukocytes, and growth factors in PRP. The choice for the most appropriate type of PRP should be based on the specific clinical field of application. As the ideal concentrations of blood components and growth factors for the specific fields of application are yet to be determined for most of the fields, future research should focus on which type of PRP is most suitable for the specific field.
Gendered Stigma Management among Young Adult Women Smokers in South Korea
Authors: Woo Juhee
Published: January 2018

Although researchers have examined the health behaviors of stigmatized groups, few studies have focused on the intersection of gender norms, stigmatization, and health outcomes. Korean women underreport their smoking activity due to stigmatization; therefore, their smoking behaviors have not been captured in previous survey-based studies. I conducted 40 in-depth interviews with Korean women smokers to explore the ways these women manage their perceived stigma and how the strategies they employ affect their smoking behaviors and their health. Findings suggest that, through social interactions with different groups of people, the participants experience negative social attitudes toward women’s smoking. As a result, they use both behavioral and discursive strategies to manage their stigma. By adopting these strategies, women smokers “do gender” in ways that affect their smoking behaviors and their health. Ironically, although stigmatization seems to prevent many Korean women from smoking, it ultimately compromises women smokers’ health in less explicit ways.
Novel Mortality Markers for Critically Ill Patients
Authors: Yoldas Hamit , Karagoz Ibrahim , Ogun Muhammed Nur , Velioglu Yusuf , Yildiz Isa , Bilgi Murat , Demirhan Abdullah
Published: January 2018

Aim:

Inflammatory markers, such as the neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet to lymphocyte ratio (PLR), derived from a complete blood count have recently attracted attention as potential markers of morbidity and mortality in various diseases. The aim of the present study was to assess the usefulness of the NLR and PLR as markers of hospital stay and mortality of patients in intensive care units (ICUs).

Methods:

Patients treated in the ICU of our institution between October 2016 and August 2017 were enrolled in the study. After obtaining approval from the institutional committee, patient data were sourced from the institution’s computerized database and retrospectively analyzed. The patients were assigned to 2 groups according to the outcomes: survivors and deceased.

Results:

The NLR of survivors and deceased patients was 2.06 (1.18-21.68) and 10.42 (2.85-48.2), respectively. The NLR was significantly elevated in deceased patients as compared with that of survivors ( P < .001). Similarly, the median PLR of patients in the deceased group (268.9 [150-3000]) was significantly higher than that of patients in the survivor group (55.7 [11.8-152.5]). The difference in the PLR between groups was significant ( P < .001).

Conclusion:

Both the NLR and PLR, as well as C-reactive protein, predicted mortality in this critically ill population. The PLR and NLR are easy-to-measure, inexpensive markers. Physicians should be aware of elevations in PLR and NLR in patient care in ICUs.
Thermal, mechanical, dielectric, and morphological study of dielectric filler–based thermoplastic nanocomposites for electromechanical applications
Authors: Poudel Anup , Walsh Philip , Kennedy James , Thomas Ken , Lyons John G , Coffey Austin
Published: January 2018

Dielectric nanocomposite elastomers based on poly(styrene-ethylene/butylene-styrene) (SEBS) and SEBS-grafted-maleic anhydride (SEBS-g-MA) with barium titanate (BT) suitable for electroactive applications were successfully manufactured by using two corotating twin extrusion systems. The main purpose of the work was to investigate the thermal, mechanical, dielectric, and morphological effects of additives on SEBS and SEBS-g-MA to widen their applications for electroactive applications using fast and more cost-effective simple production process. The morphological characterization showed a good and bad dispersion of BT into SEBS-g-MA and SEBS with 34.9% and −3% dielectric permittivity change in SEBS-g-MA and SEBS upon addition of 10 wt% BT. In addition, dielectric permittivity change, thermal change (enthalpy relaxation and thermal transitions), and mechanical (Young’s modulus, hysteresis loss under multiple stress cycles, storage modulus, loss modulus, and tan δ) properties of elastomers were found to be a function of additive concentration, compatibility and interaction between elastomers and additive type, orientation of additives, and reinforcing factors of additives in elastomers. A simple and effective modeling technique was used to demonstrate the effects of dielectric properties on nanocomposites due to poor dispersion of additives.
Study on the interfacial tension of immiscible polystyrene/polypropylene blend with deformed drop retraction method
Authors: Pan Dan , He Houkang , Ren He , Xu Hao , Wang Shuai , Chen Long , Qin Zongyi
Published: January 2018

To quantify the relation between process condition, raw materials’ properties, and the interfacial tension of polystyrene (PS)/polypropylene (PP) blend, we evaluated the effect of temperature and molecular weight on the interfacial tension of PS/PP blend with deformed drop retraction method. The accuracy of measurement was improved by eliminating the residual stress in polymers and selecting retraction scale of imbedded PS fiber. Results show that the interfacial tension of PS/PP blends decreases lineally with increasing temperature. The temperature coefficient of PS/PP blends is of the same order of magnitude as reported in the PS/PP systems in the case of similar weight distribution of PS. A primary quantitative relation between interfacial tension, temperature, and molecular weight was established, which could be utilized to guide the design of novel polymer blends.
Monitoring of Metabolic Adverse Effects Associated With Atypical Antipsychotics Use in an Outpatient Psychiatric Clinic
Authors: Pereira Luis , Budovich Aliaksandr , Claudio-Saez Maria
Published: January 2018

Background:

Atypical antipsychotics are associated with metabolic complications that contribute to a higher risk of cardiovascular disease. Current evidence reveal suboptimal adherence to the complex and variable official recommendations on metabolic monitoring in the corresponding patient population. A study evaluating metabolic monitoring at guideline-recommended intervals may help identify areas for intervention.

Objective:

Describe the frequency of monitoring metabolic adverse effects in patients receiving atypical antipsychotics in an outpatient psychiatric clinic with respect to the specific guideline-recommended intervals.

Methods:

A retrospective chart review was conducted in the outpatient psychiatric clinic. The primary outcome measure was the percentage of patients monitored for metabolic parameters at the current guideline-recommended intervals. The secondary end points were the percentage of patients with documented primary care physician, untreated metabolic comorbidities, and treated metabolic comorbidities by disease state.

Results:

The most assessed parameters were family history (98%), blood pressure (81%), and body mass index/body weight (83%) at the baseline interval. The least assessed parameters were lipids (14%) at the 12-week interval and waist circumference (0%) at any interval.

Conclusion:

Interventions are needed to encourage higher compliance with current recommendations. The complexity of the recommendations is the most likely reason for the suboptimal compliance.
One-pot synthesis of semicrystalline polyamide imide based on 4,4’-diaminobenzanilide and 2,2-propylidene-bis(1,4-phenyleneoxy)diphthalic anhydride in molten benzoic acid
Authors: Soldatova AE , Tsegelskaya AY , Semenova GK , Kurkin TS , Dmitryakov PV , Belousov SI , Kuznetsov AA
Published: January 2018

High-temperature thermoplastic semicrystalline polyamide imide (PAI) with Tg = 250°C, and Tm = 370°C was synthesized from 4,4’-diaminobenzanilide, and 2,2-propylidene-bis (1,4-phenyleneoxy) diphthalic anhydride using three different methods: one-pot high-temperature catalytic polycondensation in molten benzoic acid (BA), low-temperature polycondensation (LTP) in dimethylacetamide (DMAA) followed by chemical imidization, and LTP followed by imidization. The influence of the synthetic route on the crystallinity of PAI was studied by wide-angle X-ray scattering. The PAI synthesized in molten BA comprised a reactive oligomer, which on heating up to 360°C easily transformed into high-molecular-weight PAI. The thermal and rheological properties of the high-molecular-weight PAI thus prepared were studied using differential scanning calorimetry, trimellitic acid, thermogravimetric analysis, and capillary viscosimetry. The rheological characteristics indicate that the obtained PAI can be melt processed by extrusion and hot pressing at 370–380°C.
Preparation and characterization of poly(ether sulfone)/fluorinated silica organic–inorganic composite membrane for sulfur dioxide desulfurization
Authors: Li Ying-Na , Li Han , Ye Hui , Zhang Yu-Zhong , Chen Ying
Published: January 2018

The highly hydrophobic poly(ether sulfone)/fluorinated silica (PES/fSiO2) organic–inorganic composite membrane for sulfur dioxide (SO2) desulfurization was prepared by incorporating the fSiO2 particles on the PES membrane via sol–gel process and fluorination. The formation of PES/fSiO2 organic–inorganic composite membrane was examined by attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, thermal gravimetric analysis, field-emission scanning electron microscopy, and water contact angle. The experimental results showed that the fSiO2 inorganic layer was tightly bonded to the PES membrane surface through silane chemical reactions. The incorporation of the fSiO2 inorganic layer on the PES membrane surface increases the surface roughness and reduces the surface free energy because of the hydrophobic dodecafluoroheptyl-propyl-trimethoxysilane. The hydrophobicity of the PES/fSiO2 composite membrane was dramatically enhanced from 78.0° of PES membrane to 128.2° of PES/fSiO2 membrane. Compared with PES membrane, the desulfurization performance of PES/fSiO2 membrane was investigated. PES/fSiO2 organic–inorganic composite membrane indicated a reasonably stable SO2 absorption flux of 7.69E-4 mol/m2 s during the 240-min-long time operation.
Mechanical properties analysis of polyetherimide parts fabricated by fused deposition modeling
Authors: Jiang Shenglong , Liao Guangxin , Xu Dingding , Liu Fenghua , Li Wen , Cheng Yuchuan , Li Zhixiang , Xu Gaojie
Published: January 2018

Polyetherimide (PEI) is a kind of high-performance polymer, which possesses a high glass transition temperature ( Tg), excellent flame retardancy, low smoke generation, and good mechanical properties. In this article, PEI was applied in the fused deposition modeling (FDM)–based 3-D printing for the first time. The entire process from filament extrusion to printing was studied. It was observed that the filament orientation and nozzle temperature were closely related to the mechanical properties of printed samples. When the nozzle temperature is 370°C, the mean tensile strength of FDM printing parts can reach to 104 MPa, which is only 7% lower than that of injection molded parts. It can be seen that the 0° orientation set of samples show the highest storage modulus (2492 MPa) followed by the 45° samples, and the 90° orientation set of samples show the minimum storage modulus (1420 MPa) at room temperature. The above results indicated that this technique allows the production of parts with adequate mechanical performance, which does not need to be restricted to the production of mock-ups and prototypes. Our work broke the limitations of traditional FDM technology and expanded the types of material available for FDM to the high-temperature engineering plastics.
Novel hyperbranched poly(urethane–imide)s with enhanced thermal, mechanical, and UV-shielding properties
Authors: Tian Jun , Li Qing , Xiao Liji , Xu Zushun , Yi Changfeng
Published: January 2018

A series of novel hyperbranched poly(urethane–imide)s (HBPUIs) was synthesized and derived from as-prepared imide-containing glycol and commercial materials via an A2 + B2 + B3 approach. The chemical and morphological structures of the resulting polymers were evaluated by infrared attenuated total reflection and X-ray diffraction techniques, respectively. Compared with pure HBPU, HBPUIs exhibited better thermal stability with the 10% weight loss temperature of 282–298°C under nitrogen atmosphere, good mechanical property with the tensile strength of 2–19 MPa, and elongation at breaks of 461–896%. Moreover, optical transmissivity of all films was measured and the results showed that they had excellent transparency in the scope of visible light. Meanwhile, the cutoff wavelengths of as-prepared HBPUI films were at around 350 nm, which can block the whole ultraviolet (UV)-C (200–280 nm) and UV-B (280–320 nm), as well as a part of UV-A (320–400 nm). Furthermore, the designed photocatalytic degradation experiment of the methylene blue (MB) confirmed that HBPUI films had good UV-shielding performance with 70% degradation of MB after intense UV irradiation (400 W) for 50 min under the protection of HBPUI film with 14% imide-containing glycol. This endowed HBPUIs with potential applications prospect in UV-shielding materials.
Bayesian analysis of semi-parametric Cox models with latent variables
Authors: Cai Jingheng , Liang Chenyi
Published: January 2018

Respiratory cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers as well as the leading cause of cancer death. Numerous efforts have been devoted to reducing the death rate of respiratory cancer. In this article, we propose a semi-parametric Cox model with latent variables to assess the effects of observed and latent risk factors on survival time of respiratory cancer. The characteristics of latent risk factors are characterized via multiple observed indicators by a confirmatory factor analysis model. We develop a Bayesian estimation procedure to obtain the estimates of parameters. Simulation shows that the performance of the proposed methodology is satisfactory. The proposed method is applied to analyze the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program data set.
Recognising the Human Rights of Female Sex Workers in India: Moving from Prohibition to Decriminalisation and a Pro-work Model
Authors: Sagade Jaya , Forster Christine
Published: January 2018

This article sets out a women’s human rights approach to the legal regulation of sex work developed through an analysis of feminist perspectives, international human rights standards—in particular, the approach of the Committee on the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women 1979 (CEDAW)—and the voices of female sex workers within India. It categorises sex work into four legal models, namely, prohibition which criminalises all aspects of the sex trade, partial decriminalisation which criminalises only those who force women into sex work and those who trade in under-age sex workers, social control legalisation which decriminalises but regulates the sex trade with the aim of containing through (often punitive) restrictions, and finally pro-work which approaches sex work as valid employment by extending the legal and human rights of other workers to sex workers. The article places India’s current regulatory framework into the prohibition model and argues that the legal response to sex work that most closely accords with a women’s human rights approach is partial decriminalisation coupled with a pro-work model. Although the introduction of this model in India poses considerable challenges, it has the greatest capacity to first, reduce the crime and corruption that surrounds the sex trade; second, to enhance, promote and protect public health and third, provide appropriate legal and human rights protection to sex workers as international obligations require.