bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Odontone in der Osteopathie
Authors: Pieper Matthias
Published: June 2017

Es gibt funktionelle Bezüge zwischen Zähnen und anderen Körperregionen sowie Organsystemen. Ihre tabellarische Zusammenfassung geht auf Voll
zurück, der in den 1950er-Jahren die Elektroakupunktur entwickelte. Zum Teil lassen sich die beschriebenen Phänomene aus der Segmentanatomie
und den Kerngebieten des N. trigeminus ableiten.
Inhibitory Effect of Abitylguanide on Adenovirus Replication
Authors: Galabov Angel , Vassileva Vesselina , Karabasheva Vera
Published: June 2017

N’N’-anhydro-bis(β-hydroxy-ethyl)biguanide.HCl (abitylguanide) demonstrated a marked inhibitory effect on replication in cell cultures of a broad spectrum of human adenoviruses both standard laboratory strains and strains isolated from epidemic keratoconjunctivitis patients. The strongest inhibitory activity was found in viruses belonging to subgroup C (Rosen’s subgroup III). The compound susceptible period of human adenovirus 5 replication in primary cell cultures of human embryo kidney cells included the total replication cycle and was especially pronounced during the exponential phase of the virus growth curve. Electron microscopy established that the compound decreased the percentage of cells in which mature or empty virions with the characteristic nuclear localization were observed; a complete absence of paracrystals was registered and the number of cells with virus particles arranged in crystals in the nucleoplasm was strongly decreased. Abitylguanide can be considered as a ligand of adenovirus capsid protein(s).
Graphene and related two-dimensional materials: Structure-property relationships for electronics and optoelectronics
Authors: Li Xinming , Tao Li , Chen Zefeng , Fang Hui , Li Xuesong , Wang Xinran , Xu Jian-Bin , Zhu Hongwei
Published: June 2017

The exfoliation and identification of the two-dimensional (2D) single atomic layer of carbon have opened the opportunity to explore graphene and related 2D materials due to their unique properties. 2D materials are regarded as one of the most exciting solutions for next generation electronics and optoelectronics in the technological evolution of semiconductor technology. In this review, we focus on the core concept of “structure-property relationships” to explain the state-of-the-art of 2D materials and summarize the unique electrical and light-matter interaction properties in 2D materials. Based on this, we discuss and analyze the structural properties of 2D materials, such as defects and dopants, the number of layers, composition, phase, strain, and other structural characteristics, which could significantly alter the properties of 2D materials and hence affect the performance of semiconductor devices. In particular, the building blocks principles and potential electronic and optoelectronic applications based on 2D materials are explained and illustrated. Indeed, 2D materials and related heterostructures offer the promise for challenging the existing technologies and providing the chance to have social impact. More efforts are expected to propel this exciting field forward.
Ligand manipulation of charge transfer excited state relaxation and spin crossover in [Fe(2,2′-bipyridine)2(CN)2]
Authors: Kjær Kasper S. , Zhang Wenkai , Alonso-Mori Roberto , Bergmann Uwe , Chollet Matthieu , Hadt Ryan G. , Hartsock Robert W. , Harlang Tobias , Kroll Thomas , Kubiček Katharina , Lemke Henrik T. , Liang Huiyang W. , Liu Yizhu , Nielsen Martin M. , Robinson Joseph S. , Solomon Edward I. , Sokaras Dimosthenis , van Driel Tim B. , Weng Tsu-Chien , Zhu Diling , Persson Petter , Wärnmark Kenneth , Sundström Villy , Gaffney Kelly J.
Published: June 2017

We have used femtosecond resolution UV-visible and Kβ x-ray emission spectroscopy to characterize the electronic excited state dynamics of [Fe(bpy)2(CN)2], where bpy=2,2′-bipyridine, initiated by metal-to-ligand charge transfer (MLCT) excitation. The excited-state absorption in the transient UV-visible spectra, associated with the 2,2′-bipyridine radical anion, provides a robust marker for the MLCT excited state, while the transient Kβ x-ray emission spectra provide a clear measure of intermediate and high spin metal-centered excited states. From these measurements, we conclude that the MLCT state of [Fe(bpy)2(CN)2] undergoes ultrafast spin crossover to a metal-centered quintet excited state through a short lived metal-centered triplet transient species. These measurements of [Fe(bpy)2(CN)2] complement prior measurement performed on [Fe(bpy)3]2+ and [Fe(bpy)(CN)4]2− in dimethylsulfoxide solution and help complete the chemical series [Fe(bpy)N(CN)6–2N]2N-4, where N = 1–3. The measurements confirm that simple ligand modifications can significantly change the relaxation pathways and excited state lifetimes and support the further investigation of light harvesting and photocatalytic applications of 3d transition metal complexes.
Resistive switching in memristive electrochemical metallization devices
Authors: Dirkmann Sven , Mussenbrock Thomas
Published: June 2017

We report on resistive switching of memristive electrochemical metallization devices using 3D kinetic Monte Carlo simulations describing the transport of ions through a solid state electrolyte of an Ag/TiOx/Pt thin layer system. The ion transport model is consistently coupled with solvers for the electric field and thermal diffusion. We show that the model is able to describe not only the formation of conducting filaments but also its dissolution. Furthermore, we calculate realistic current-voltage characteristics and resistive switching kinetics. Finally, we discuss in detail the influence of both the electric field and the local heat on the switching processes of the device.
Energy relations in cattle can be quantified using open-circuit gas-quantification systems
Authors: Caetano M. , Wilkes M. J. , Pitchford W. S. , Lee S. J. , Hynd P. I.
Published: June 2017

This study was conducted to evaluate the relationships between metabolisable energy (ME) intake and outputs of methane (CH4), rumen-derived carbon dioxide (rCO2), lung-derived carbon dioxide (lCO2), and total carbon dioxide output (tCO2) measured using an open-circuit gas-quantification system (GQS). Three trials were conducted to produce a wide range of energy intake and gas emissions to allow relationships between gas outputs and ME intake to be quantified. Gas emissions and ME intake were measured in eight Angus steers (455 ± 24.6 kg initial bodyweight; Trials 1 and 2), and in eight pregnant Angus heifers (503 ± 22.0 kg initial bodyweight; 5 months pregnant; Trial 3). Animals were fed twice daily to allow ad libitum intake in Trial 1, whereas in Trials 2 and 3, feed intake was restricted and energy density was varied to provide a wide range of ME intakes. Animals were allocated to individual pens during a 20-, 19- and 15-day experimental periods, and total faecal output was measured for the last 8, 4 and 4 days in Trials 1, 2 and 3 respectively. Gas emissions were measured for 16, 8 and 8 days after the adaptation period (4, 11 and 7 days) and each animal was allowed to visit the GQS every 2 h. Total CO2 in breath (tCO2) was separated into CO2 arising from rumen fermentation (rCO2) and CO2 in expired air from the lungs (lCO2) by manually identifying the eructations from normal breaths using the GQS gas-output trace. All CO2 outputs (lCO2, rCO2 and tCO2) were highly correlated with each other (r = 0.74–0.99; P < 0.01). Measurement of CO2 output was more repeatable with fewer days of measurement than was CH4 output. Metabolisable-energy intake was closely related to all three measures of CO2 output (rCO2, r = 0.69, P < 0.001; lCO2, r = 0.70, P < 0.001; and tCO2, r = 0.73, P < 0.001). Heat production was estimated from lCO2 output by assuming a value of 0.85 for the respiratory quotient of metabolised products. The heat production estimated at the extrapolated zero ME intake (0.52 MJ/kg0.75) was 60% higher than previous estimates of fasting heat production in cattle. However, our estimate was made under non-fasting, non-sedentary, non-thermoneutral conditions, so it may be a realistic estimate of maintenance energy requirement excluding heat increment of feeding. In conclusion, the open-circuit GQS can be used to provide estimates of the ME intake and heat production of cattle, and, as such, provides a valuable opportunity to describe the energy relations and efficiency of beef cattle in the field, with minimal interference to normal grazing patterns and behaviour.
Demographic, dispersal, predation and genetic data reveal the potential vulnerability of an endangered rainforest shrub, Triunia robusta (Proteaceae)
Authors: Shimizu-Kimura Yoko , Burnett Scott , Shapcott Alison
Published: June 2017

We investigated the population ecology of Triunia robusta (C.T. White) Foreman, an endemic rainforest shrub of south-east Queensland, Australia. Two-time demographic data from 1999 and 2010 were used to estimate the species life span and changes in demographic factors over the 11 year period. The potential dispersal vectors and their activities were monitored, and the effects of predation on seed and seedling mortality were quantified. Published genetic data was used to assess the gene flow distance in years. On average, T. robusta has a life span of 103 years, with a generation time of 44 years. Larger populations (>200) increased in size since 1999, whereas smaller populations retained the same or slightly reduced numbers. Small, isolated populations in the northern distribution range showed substantially lower reproductive rates. Local rodents and marsupials were considered responsible for the majority of observed secondary seed dispersal (<10.3 m) and predation activities. Post-predation mortality was high (82%), with only 12% surviving to become seedlings. The empirical evidence of short-distance dispersal, limited gene flow, high post-predation mortality rates and relatively low reproductive rates, combined with potential absence of primary dispersers suggests that critically small and isolated populations may be highly vulnerable.
Multiple mechanisms mediate growth and survival in young seedlings of two populations of the halophyte Atriplex halimus (L.) subjected to long single-step salinity treatments
Authors: Hamdani Faiza , Derridj Arezki , Rogers Hilary J.
Published: June 2017

Understanding how halophytes survive high soil salinity in realistic long-term experiments is important for strategies to mitigate the effects of increasing soil salinity worldwide. Protective mechanisms in halophytes enabling survival include sequestration of salt via Na+/H+ antiporters, synthesis and accumulation of osmolytes, and activation of protective mechanisms against reactive oxygen species (ROS). Protective mechanisms elicited by a single step-up to a range of NaCl treatments (34–256 mM) in two populations of the halophyte Atriplex halimus L. from contrasting environments (arid steppe and saline coastline) were compared over 6 weeks. The coastal population survived significantly better at high salinity compared with the steppe population, although in both populations, salinity inhibited growth. Increased Na+ and K+ concentration was accompanied by higher induction of Na+/H+ antiporter gene expression in coastal than in steppe population leaves. Osmolytes increased more significantly in the coastal than in the steppe population with greater induction of choline mono-oxygenase gene expression. Activation of ROS scavenging mechanisms was greater in coastal than in steppe plants. Differential responses found through time, in different salt concentrations, and between leaves and roots indicate a finely tuned response. Sharp changes in responses at 171 mM NaCl indicate that different mechanisms may be invoked at different stress levels.
Prescribed fire as a tool to regenerate live and dead serotinous jack pine (Pinus banksiana) stands
Authors: Sharpe Maria , Hwang Hyejin , Schroeder David , Ryu Soung Ryoul , Lieffers Victor J.
Published: June 2017

This study documents cone opening and natural regeneration of jack pine (Pinus banksiana Lamb.) after burning live and dead stands similar to those killed by the mountain pine beetle (Dendroctonus ponderosae). Trees were killed by girdling in May and were burned in late July, 26 months later. Pairs of live and dead plots were simultaneously burned using three types of fire: surface, intermittent crown and continuous crown fires. Each type of fire was replicated three times; the nine pairs of burns were completed in a 4-day period. After fire, more cones were opened on dead trees than live trees. On dead trees, there was cone opening even when fire charred only the lower part of the bole. Three years after burning, dead stands with continuous crown fires had some of the densest regeneration and the highest rates of stocking. Across all burns in this study, seedling regeneration was best in shallow residual duff and in the more intensely burned plots. Without burning, there was virtually no regeneration 5 years after mortality. The results also show that burning, especially under continuous crown fire, could be used to promote regeneration in dead stands.
Asymmetric distribution of type IV pili triggered by directional light in unicellular cyanobacteria
Authors: Nakane Daisuke , Nishizaka Takayuki
Published: June 2017

Significance

Type IV pili (T4P) are cell-surface appendages observed in prokaryotes that perform critical functions in cell motility, surface adhesion, virulence, and biofilm formation. Although the architecture of T4P has already been determined, the dynamics resulting from the response to various environmental signals remain unclear. Here we demonstrated the sequential process of T4P dynamics from stimulus to taxis at the single-cell level in a model cyanobacterium, which can recognize light direction. We directly visualized that T4P filaments dominantly appeared from the side of the cell opposite the illumination. This asymmetric activation is regulated on a timescale of minutes, and the process was transitioned between three sequential phases. These findings provide clues toward a general regulation mechanism of the T4P system.
Comparative studies of variation in the use of grammatical gender in the Danish and Dutch DP in the speech of youngsters
Authors: Cornips Leonie , Gregersen Frans
Published: June 2017

The paper reports on a cross-linguistic study on speech data produced by monolingual and bilingual Dutch and Danish teenagers. The prediction that both monolingual and bilingual Danish youngsters show less variation in grammatical gender due to more morphological input cues for gender in Danish than in Dutch is borne out. More precise results of this cross-linguistic study are that free morphemes may vary in teenagers’ actual language use in Danish whereas bound morphemes may not. Further, the teenagers produce far more common than neuter nouns in both languages and the bilinguals overuse common gender of the definite determiner in Dutch and, though demonstrably less, the indefinite determiner in Danish.
Complexity and production/comprehension asymmetries in the acquisition of wh-questions in French
Authors: Prévost Philippe , Tuller Laurice , Galloux Anne , Barthez Marie Anne
Published: June 2017

Assuming that production places a greater burden on processing than comprehension, this study explores the hypothesis that both the degree of linguistic computational complexity entailed in a particular structure and the processing capacity of the speakers determine if and when production/comprehension asymmetries will surface. Elicited production and comprehension of French wh-questions were studied in 29 English-speaking children acquiring French as a second language (L2) and 27 French-speaking children with Specific Language Impairment, aged 6 to 12. Results confirm the hypothesis and underline the fundamental role of complexity in language acquisition, pointing to implications for the effects of first language transfer, age of onset and length of exposure in L2 acquisition, and on differences between children with and without language pathology.
Past tense production in children with SLI and bilingual children
Authors: Rispens Judith , de Bree Elise
Published: June 2017

We investigated whether (1) 7–9-year-old children with SLI, bilingual children (BIL) and monolingual (TD) children differed on Dutch past tense production of real and pseudo-verbs and (2) whether non-word repetition (NWR), receptive vocabulary, and group status contributed to past tense production. Past tense patterned as SLI < BIL < TD, for NWR as SLI < BIL = TD and for vocabulary SLI = BIL < TD. Vocabulary and SLI group status were significant predictors of real-verb past tense inflection. SLI and bilingual group status were predictors of pseudo-verb past tense inflection. These findings confirm the association between vocabulary and past tense and the difficulty that children with SLI and bilingual children have with both skills.
Grief due to divorce: relationship with attachment style and effects on subjective well-being and co-parenting / El duelo ante el divorcio: relación con el estilo de apego y efectos en el bienestar subjetivo y el ejercicio de la co-parentalidad
Authors: Yárnoz-Yaben Sagrario
Published: June 2017

Divorce, like other life transitions, results in a grieving process. This paper analyses the grieving process experienced with divorce in a sample of 185 Spanish divorced parents as well as the antecedents and consequences of this situation. No differences were found by gender or custody status. Grief due to divorce is affected by the divorcee’s sociocultural context, duration of the marriage, time elapsed since the divorce and attachment style. Grief due to divorce predicts the person’s adaptation to the divorce, reaction to conflict, forgiveness and subjective well-being (life satisfaction, positive and negative affect), but it does not predict co-parenting or perception of support received from the former spouse. The implication of these results for intervention and working with divorced parents is discussed.
Light intensity effects on the sensitivity of ZnO: Cr gas sensor
Authors: Manivasaham A. , Ravichandran K. , Subha K.
Published: June 2017

Chromium-doped zinc oxide thin films (Cr: ZnO) with different Cr concentration were prepared using a homemade nebuliser spray pyrolysis system, and the influence of Cr doping level on the physical properties and the influence of light on the gas-sensing properties of ZnO films were investigated. The XRD results reveal that the hexagonal wurtzite structure of ZnO was not affected by the Cr doping. All the films have average transmittance about 85% in the visible region. The film shows good sensing behaviour against ammonia gas under dark condition than ambient (64 lx) and 150 W (5840 lx) incandescent lights. Of the tested samples, ZnO:Cr film with 2 at.-% of Cr doping shows the best response and recovery time for ammonia gas. The reasons for the enhanced sensing ability of the doped films were explained with the help of FESEM, AFM and optical results.
The contribution of aromatic components in Katsuobushi to preference formation and reinforcement effect
Authors: Amitsuka Takahiko , Okamura Maya , Mukuta Kei , Shiibashi Hiroko , Haraguchi Kenji , Saito Tsukasa , Inoue Kazuo , Fushiki Tohru
Published: June 2017

Katsuodashi, a dried bonito broth, is very basic and indispensable in Japanese cuisine and contains taste-exhibiting components and unique aroma. We previously reported that its unique aroma contributes to the preference and reinforcement effect associated with dried bonito. This study aims to elucidate the contribution of aromatic components in Katsuobushi to preference formation and reinforcement effect. Volatile components obtained from dried bonito were fractionated and the fractions were subjected to two-bottle choice test. The fractionation test suggested that the component responsible for the preference is not one but comprises multiple components. In the GC–MS analysis/reconstruction test, solution with aromatic flavor narrowed down to 125 compounds had preference, and also had reinforcement effect. Moreover, GC–MS–olfactometry analysis narrowed down the candidate components to 28 out of 125. Mice showed preference for the test solution with aromatic flavor reconstructed with 28 components but did not show reinforcement behavior.
Poussin’s Elephant
Authors: Rice Louise
Published: June 2017

Nicolas Poussin’s “Hannibal Crossing the Alps,” long considered one of his earliest surviving works, is here recognized as a portrait of a historical elephant who visited Rome in 1630 and re-dated accordingly. The article tells the story of this remarkable animal. It traces his passage from South Asia through Portugal, Spain, England, France, the Netherlands, Germany, Austria, Italy, and back again to France, and examines his encounters along the way with kings and courtiers, scholars, artists, and traveling showmen, giving insight into the diplomatic and economic uses of exotic animals in early modern Europe. Finally, returning to Poussin, it addresses the implications of the re-dating of the “Hannibal” for our understanding of the painter’s stylistic development and biography.
Genetic Testing to Signal Quality in Beef Cattle: Bayesian Methods for Optimal Sample Size
Authors: Thompson Nathanael M. , Brorsen B. Wade , DeVuyst Eric A. , Lusk Jayson L.
Published: June 2017

Genetic testing is one way that feeder cattle producers can credibly signal quality to buyers. However, quality signaling in the presence of asymmetric information typically requires paying measurement costs. Given that previous research has indicated that the value of genetic information is generally not enough to offset the current cost of testing, we evaluate random sampling as a strategy to reduce the overall cost of testing. An economic approach to sample size determination is introduced utilizing a Bayesian decision theoretic framework to balance the expected costs and benefits of sampling. Data from 101 pens (2,796 animals) of commercially‐fed cattle are used to empirically evaluate optimal sampling. Assuming profit is linear (nonlinear) in genetic information, results indicate that at the baseline parameter values an optimal sample size of nine (five) out of 100 animals generates returns from sampling of $7.87/head ($5.96/head). Sensitivity analyses indicate that the degree of asymmetric information (absolute difference between seller and buyer prior expectations of quality) is the major driver of the overall results. The results provide strong evidence that random sampling generates benefits that far exceed the costs.
Endobronchial brachytherapy with curative intent: the impact of reference points setting according to the bronchial diameter
Authors: Nomoto Yoshihito , Ii Noriko , Murashima Shuichi , Yamashita Yasufumi , Ochiai Satoru , Takada Akinori , Toyomasu Yutaka , Kawamura Tomoko , Sakuma Hajime
Published: June 2017

Endobronchial brachytherapy (EBB) is an effective treatment for endobronchial tumors. However, bronchial toxicity caused by over-irradiation remains problematic. To decrease bronchial toxicity, we developed a source-centralizing applicator for EBB. The purpose of the present study was to assess the efficacy and safety of EBB with varying reference dose points according to the bronchial diameter, using a source-centralizing applicator. We reviewed 15 patients with endobronchial carcinoma who were treated with curative intent using a combination of external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) and high-dose-rate EBB between 2005 and 2014. During each EBB session, we used a source-centralizing applicator that maintained the source-delivering catheter in the center of the bronchial lumen. Reference dose points were 5–7 mm from the source axis, depending on the bronchial diameter. The median radiation doses of EBRT and EBB were 40 Gy in 20 fractions and 18 Gy in 3 fractions, respectively. The median observation period was 36 months. The 3-year overall survival, progression-free survival and local control rates were 79%, 77% and 100%, respectively. Grade 2 radiation pneumonitis was observed in two cases. Bronchial toxicities, such as hemoptysis or the symptoms of chronic bronchitis, were not observed. EBB with varying reference dose points according to bronchial diameter, using a source-centralizing applicator, is a promising procedure that may be effective for tumor elimination and reducing toxicity to the bronchial wall.
Failure to Rescue and Mortality Following Resection of Intracranial Neoplasms
Authors: Malone Hani , Cloney Michael , Yang Jingyan , Hershman Dawn L , Wright Jason D , Neugut Alfred I , Bruce Jeffrey N
Published: June 2017

BACKGROUND

There is growing recognition that perioperative complication rates are similar between hospitals, but mortality rates are lower at high-volume centers. This may be due to differences in the ability to rescue patients from major complications.

OBJECTIVE

To examine the relationship between hospital caseload and failure to rescue from complications following resection of intracranial neoplasms.

METHODS

We identified adults in the Nationwide Inpatient Sample diagnosed with glioma, meningioma, brain metastasis, or acoustic neuroma, who underwent surgical resection between 1998 and 2010. We stratified hospitals by low, intermediate, and high surgical volume tertiles and calculated failure to rescue rates (mortality in patients after a major complication).

RESULTS

A total of 550 054 patients were analyzed. Overall risk-adjusted complication rates were comparable between low- and medium-volume centers, and slightly lower at high-volume centers (15.3% [15.2, 15.5] vs 15.7% [15.5, 15.9] vs 14.3% [14.1, 14.6]). Risk-adjusted mortality decreased with increasing hospital surgical volume (10.3% [10.2, 10.5] vs 9.0% [8.9, 9.1] vs 7.1% [7.0, 7.2]). The overall risk-adjusted failure to rescue rate also decreased with increasing surgical volume (26.9% [26.3, 27.4] vs 24.8% [24.3, 25.3] vs 20.9% [20.5, 21.5]).

CONCLUSION

While complication rates were similar between high-volume and low-volume hospitals following craniotomy for tumor, mortality rates were substantially lower at high-volume centers. This appears to be due to the ability of high-volume hospitals to rescue patients from major perioperative complications.
Posterior Reversible Encephalopathic Syndrome in the Setting of Induced Elevated Mean Arterial Pressure in Patients With Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Whiting Alexander C , Fanarjian Manuel P , Hlubek Randall J , Godzik Jakub , Kakarla U Kumar , Theodore Nicholas
Published: June 2017

BACKGROUND AND IMPORTANCE

Acute spinal cord injury (SCI) is managed by avoiding hypotension and elevating mean arterial pressure (MAP) to attain optimal perfusion of the spinal cord. Few studies have been published regarding complications related to this treatment paradigm.

CLINICAL PRESENTATION

Three patients with SCI developed posterior reversible encephalopathic syndrome (PRES) during treatment with intravenous fluids and vasopressors administered to maintain elevated MAPs. All of them experienced temporary elevations well above the standard blood pressure goals for acute SCI and deterioration of neurological status.

CONCLUSION

PRES is a potential complication of elevated MAPs in patients with SCI, particularly if the blood pressure rises above the goals of standard treatment paradigms. The neurosurgical staff should be suspicious of possible PRES early in the course of acute SCI in patients with unexplained neurological decline. This case series is the first report of PRES in patients with acute SCI.
Is Traditional Closed Thoracic Drainage Necessary to Treat Pleural Tears After Posterior Approach Thoracic Spine Surgery?
Authors: Zheng Guo-li , Zhou Hao , Zhou Xiao-Gang , Lin Hong , Li Xi-lei , Dong Jian
Published: June 2017

Study Design.

A prospective study.

Objective.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the outcomes and efficacy of using a 10Fr elastic tube with a regular negative pressure ball to treat the operative pleural tear in the complicated single-stage posterior approach thoracic spine surgeries.

Summary of Background Data.

In some complicated single-stage posterior approach thoracic spine surgeries, such as total en bloc spondylectomy, pleural tear is quite inevitable. Traditional chest tube with a water-sealed bottle has many shortcomings, as pain, inconvenience, and other complications. In many thoracic surgeries, a smaller-caliber elastic tube has been used to avoid such complications and achieve quick recovery. However, there are concerns about the efficacy and safety of the smaller-caliber elastic tube.

Methods.

A prospective trial was performed in 72 patients between April 2008 and March 2012. Pleural tear occurred in 19 patients, among whom 10 patients were inserted a 10Fr elastic tube with a regular negative pressure ball (Group I), and nine were inserted a 28Fr chest tube with a water-sealed bottle (Group II). Comparative evaluation of the clinical and radiographic data was carried out.

Results.

The basic condition of two groups did not differ significantly. The oxygen saturation monitor, hospital length of stay, average volume, and failure rate of drainage between two groups were not statistically significant. The difference of the visual analog score was significant (1.10 ± 0.35 vs. 3.89 ± 0.59, P < 0.001).

Conclusion.

Patients who received a 10Fr elastic tube with a regular negative pressure ball experienced less pain and a tendency of quicker recovery than those who received a 28Fr chest tube with a water-sealed bottle. The complication rate in Group I was not higher than Group II, indicating an equally good drainage efficacy.

Level of Evidence: 2
The immunomodulatory tellurium compound ammonium trichloro (dioxoethylene-O,O′) tellurate reduces anxiety-like behavior and corticosterone levels of submissive mice
Authors: Gross Moshe , Stanciu Emanuel , Kenigsbuch-Sredni Dvora , Sredni Benjamin , Pinhasov Albert
Published: June 2017

Ammonium trichloro (dioxoethylene-O,O′) tellurate (AS101) is a synthetic organotellurium compound with potent immunomodulatory and neuroprotective properties shown to inhibit the function of integrin αvβ3, a presynaptic cell-surface-adhesion receptor. As partial deletion of αvβ3 downregulated reuptake of serotonin by the serotonin transporter, we hypothesized that AS101 may influence pathways regulating anxiety. AS101 was tested in the modulation of anxiety-like behavior using the selectively bred Submissive (Sub) mouse strain that develop anxiety-like behavior in response to an i.p. injection. Mice were treated daily with AS101 (i.p., 125 or 200 μg/kg) or vehicle for 3 weeks, after which their anxiety-like behavior was measured in the elevated plus maze. Animals were then culled for the measurement of serum corticosterone levels by ELISA and hippocampal expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) by RT-PCR. Chronic administration of AS101 significantly reduced anxiety-like behavior of Sub mice in the elevated plus maze, according to both time spent and entries to open arms, relative to vehicle-treated controls. AS101 also markedly reduced serum corticosterone levels of the treated mice and increased their hippocampal BDNF expression. Anxiolytic-like effects of AS101 may be attributed to the modulation of the regulatory influence integrin of αvβ3 upon the serotonin transporter, suggesting a multifaceted mechanism by which AS101 buffers the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis response to injection stress, enabling recovery of hippocampal BDNF expression and anxiety-like behavior in Sub mice. Further studies should advance the potential of AS101 in the context of anxiety-related disorders.
Two cases of epithelioid trophoblastic tumors in postmenopausal women
Authors: Rodríguez-Trujillo Adriano , Martínez-Serrano María José , Saco Adela , Torné Aureli
Published: June 2017

Objective:

Epithelioid trophoblastic tumor is a rare gestational trophoblastic neoplasm usually presenting in women of reproductive age, with a history of a prior gestational event. Its presentation in postmenopausal women is extremely rare. Immunohistochemical staining is a helpful aid to distinguish epithelioid trophoblastic tumor from other gestational trophoblastic neoplasms. Correct diagnosis is crucial for clinical management that can vary according to the type of gestational trophoblastic neoplasm.

Methods:

We report the case of a 63-year-old postmenopausal woman 33 years after her last full-term pregnancy and another case of a 57-year-old postmenopausal woman who had had a first-trimester abortion 30 years previously as her last gestational event, both presenting cervical epithelioid trophoblastic tumors. In both cases, immunohistochemistry played an important role in differentiating this entity from other gestational trophoblastic neoplasms. Surgery was the primary treatment in both cases. The first patient remained disease-free and died 5 years later due to a rectal adenocarcinoma, and the second patient remains disease-free at publication.

Results:

In both cases, the hysterectomy specimen confirmed the presence of two large epithelioid trophoblastic tumors arising in the endocervix and lower uterine segment with no extrauterine disease. Nuclear positivity for p63 allowed differentiation from a placental site trophoblastic tumor. The Ki67 proliferative index was 20% and 35%, respectively.

Conclusions:

Epithelioid trophoblastic tumors may occur a long time after a prior gestational event and should even be excluded in postmenopausal women with uterine masses. Immunohistochemical staining is helpful to make the differential diagnosis with other gestational trophoblastic neoplasms.
Selective Localized Tenonplasty for Corneal Burns Based on the Findings of Ocular Surface Fluorescein Angiography
Authors: Tabatabaei Seyed Ali , Soleimani Mohammad , Mirshahi Reza , Zandian Mehdi , Ghasemi Hamed , Hashemian Mohammad Naser , Ghomi Zahra
Published: June 2017

Purpose:

To report the results of a selective localized tenonplasty procedure based on findings of ocular surface fluorescein angiography (FA).

Methods:

Six consecutive patients with severe chemical burns were included in this study. Using fluorescein angiogram images, patients underwent selective localized tenonplasty to cover the identified ischemic areas in FA.

Results:

FA 1 week after surgery showed a perfused ocular surface in all eyes except for 1 quadrant of limbal ischemia in 1 eye. After the second tenonplasty, recirculation was also detected in that quadrant. None of the eyes perforated during the follow-up period.

Conclusions:

We observed acceptable outcomes in our patients after selective tenonplasty based on ocular surface angiography.
Neurophysiological Effects of Bitopertin in Schizophrenia
Authors: Kantrowitz Joshua T. , Nolan Karen A. , Epstein Michael L. , Lehrfeld Nayla , Shope Constance , Petkova Eva , Javitt Daniel C.
Published: June 2017

Purpose/Background

Deficits in N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) function contribute to symptoms and cognitive dysfunction in schizophrenia and are associated with impaired generation of event-related potential measures including auditory mismatch negativity. Parallel studies of the NMDAR agonist d-serine have suggested that sensitivity of these measures to glutamate-based interventions is related to symptomatic and cognitive response. Bitopertin is a selective inhibitor of glycine transport. This study investigates effects of bitopertin on NMDAR-related event-related potential deficits in schizophrenia.

Methods/Procedures

Patients with schizophrenia/schizoaffective disorder were treated with bitopertin (10 mg, n = 29), in a double-blind, parallel group investigation. Auditory mismatch negativity served as primary outcome measures. Secondary measures included clinical symptoms and neurocognitive performance.

Findings/Results

No significant changes were seen with bitopertin for neurophysiological, clinical, or neurocognitive assessments.

Implications/Conclusions

These findings represent the first assessment of the effect of bitopertin on neurophysiological biomarkers. Bitopertin did not significantly affect either symptoms or NMDAR-related biomarkers at the dose tested (10 mg). Mismatch negativity showed high test-retest reliability, supporting its use as a target engagement measure.
The Efficacy of Psychostimulants in Major Depressive Episodes
Authors: McIntyre Roger S. , Lee Yena , Zhou Aileen J. , Rosenblat Joshua D. , Peters Evyn M. , Lam Raymond W. , Kennedy Sidney H. , Rong Carola , Jerrell Jeanette M.
Published: June 2017

Background

Psychostimulants are frequently prescribed off-label for adults with major depressive disorder or bipolar disorder. The frequent and increasing usage of stimulants in mood disorders warrants a careful appraisal of the efficacy of this class of agents. Herein, we aim to estimate the efficacy of psychostimulants in adults with unipolar or bipolar depression.

Methods

The PubMed/Medline database was searched from inception to January 16, 2016 for randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trials investigating the antidepressant efficacy of psychostimulants in the treatment of adults with unipolar or bipolar depression.

Results

Psychostimulants were associated with statistically significant improvement in depressive symptoms in major depressive disorder (odds ratio [OR], 1.41; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.13–1.78; P = 0.003) and bipolar disorder (OR, 1.42; 95% CI, 1.13–1.78; P = 0.003). Efficacy outcomes differed across the psychostimulants evaluated as a function of response rates: ar/modafinil (OR, 1.47; 95% CI, 1.20–1.81; P = 0.0002); dextroamphetamine (OR, 7.11; 95% CI, 1.09–46.44; P = 0.04); lisdexamfetamine dimesylate (OR, 1.21; 95% CI, 0.94–1.56; P = ns); methylphenidate (OR, 1.49; 95% CI, 0.88–2.54; P = ns). Efficacy outcomes also differed between agents used as adjunctive therapy (OR, 1.39; 95% CI, 1.19–1.64) or monotherapy (OR, 2.25; 95% CI, 0.67–7.52).

Conclusions

Psychostimulants are insufficiently studied as adjunctive or monotherapy in adults with mood disorders. Most published studies have significant methodological limitations (eg, heterogeneous samples, dependent measures, type/dose of agent). In addition to improvements in methodological factors, a testable hypothesis is that psychostimulants may be more appropriately tested in select domains of psychopathology (eg, cognitive emotional processing), rather than as “broad-spectrum” antidepressants.
Effects of Auricular Acupressure on Sleep Quality, Anxiety, and Depressed Mood in RN-BSN Students With Sleep Disturbance
Authors: Chueh Ke-Hsin , Chang Chia-Chuan , Yeh Mei-Ling
Published: June 2017

Background:

Students in 2-year registered nurse to Bachelor of Science in nursing (RN-BSN) programs usually work full-time and study part-time. Sleep disturbance, anxiety, and depression are known to be common health problems among these students.Prior research has described the effectiveness of auricular acupressure (AA) in reducing sleep disturbance and improving mood.

Purpose:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of using a 4-week AA program that adheres to a magnetic pellet on the shenmen acupoint on sleep quality, anxiousness, and depressed moods in nursing students with sleep disturbance.

Methods:

This study used a one-group, quasi-experimental design with repeated measures. Eligible students were recruited from an RN-BSN program offered by a university in northern Taiwan, and all were currently experiencing sleep disturbance. A 4-week AA intervention that applied a magnetic pellet on the shenmen acupoint was used. The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, Beck Anxiety Inventory, and Beck Depression Inventory-II were used to measure sleep quality and mood outcomes each week during the 4-week intervention. Improvements in sleep quality, anxiety, and depressed moods were analyzed using the generalized estimating equation.

Results:

Thirty-six participants with a mean age of 32 years were enrolled as participants. After adjusting for confounding factors, continuous and significant improvements in sleep quality, anxiety, and depressed mood (p < .05) were observed throughout the intervention, with 4-week improvements in sleep quality, anxiety, and depressed mood averaging 26.7%, 43.5%, and 25%, respectively.

Conclusions/Implications for Practice:

This study showed the efficacy of using a 4-week AA that applies a magnetic pellet on the shenmen acupoint in terms of improving sleep quality, anxiousness, and depressed mood in RN-BSN students experiencing sleep disturbances. Especially, the emotional mood of participants improved significantly as early as the first week. The 4-week AA for reducing sleep disturbance, and improving students’ anxiety, and depressed moods may be applied on primary healthcare.
Nonaccidental Trauma and the Pediatric Surgical Patient
Authors: Gooding Christina
Published: June 2017

Introduction

Nonaccidental trauma is a leading cause of death and injury during childhood. In some cases, patients who experience child maltreatment and neglect may present to medical and surgical teams with different types of traumatic injuries. It is important that medical teams be diligent in recognizing signs of nonaccidental trauma in pediatric surgical patients.

Purpose

The aims of this study were to identify risk factors and other red flags of nonaccidental trauma and discuss different presentations of nonaccidental trauma in a pediatric surgical patient including burns, head trauma, occult abdominal trauma, and fractures. Additional discussion will include the appropriate diagnostic evaluation and reporting of suspected nonaccidental trauma.

Discussion

Nonaccidental trauma occurs in all types of healthcare settings. For the medical and surgical teams, it is important to maintain diligence when caring for pediatric surgical patients. In cases where nonaccidental trauma is suspected, appropriate workup and report should be completed in a timely manner and before considering the patient’s discharge from the hospital.
Constructing a Measure of Private-pay Nursing Home Days
Authors: Thomas Kali S. , Silver Benjamin , Gozalo Pedro L. , Dosa David , Grabowski David C. , Makineni Rajesh , Mor Vincent
Published: June 2017

Background:

Nursing home (NH) care is financed through multiple sources. Although Medicaid is the predominant payer for NH care, over 20% of residents pay out-of-pocket for their care. Despite this large percentage, an accepted measure of private-pay NH occupancy has not been established and little is known about the types of facilities and the long-term care markets that cater to this population.

Objectives:

To describe 2 novel measures of private-pay utilization in the NH setting, including the proportion of privately financed residents and resident days, and examine their construct validity.

Design:

Retrospective descriptive analysis of US NHs in 2007–2009.

Measures:

We used Medicare claims, Medicare Enrollment records, and the Minimum Data Set to create measures of private-pay resident prevalence and proportion of privately financed NH days. We compared our estimates of private-pay utilization to payer data collected in the NH annual certification survey and evaluated the relationships of our measures with facility characteristics.

Results:

Our measures of private-pay resident prevalence and private-pay days are highly correlated (r=0.83, P<0.001 and r=0.83, P<0.001, respectively) with the rate of “other payer” reported in the annual certification survey. We also observed a significantly higher proportion of private-pay residents and days in higher quality facilities.

Conclusions:

This new methodology provides estimates of private-pay resident prevalence and resident days. These measures were correlated with estimates using other data sources and validated against measures of facility quality. These data set the stage for additional work to examine questions related to NH payment, quality of care, and responses to changes in the long-term care market.
Pancreatic stellate cells: what's new?
Authors: Pang Tony C.Y. , Wilson Jeremy S. , Apte Minoti V.
Published: June 2017

Purpose of review

Pancreatic stellate cells (PSCs) play an integral role in the pathogenesis of pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer. With the developing knowledge of this important cell type, we are at the cusp of developing effective therapies for the above diseases based upon targeting the PSC and modulating its function.

Recent findings

The major themes of the recent PSC literature include: PSC interactions with the extracellular matrix and other stromal components; intracellular calcium physiology as drivers of mechanical interactions and necrosis; the relationship between proinflammatory, protumoural, angiogenic, and metabolic pathways in pancreatic necrosis, fibrosis, and carcinogenesis; and targeting of the stroma for antitumoural and antifibrotic effects.

Traditionally, there have been few treatment options for pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer. The elucidation of the wide-ranging functions of PSCs provide an opportunity for treatments based on stromal reprogramming.
Why We Need to Enhance Suicide Postvention
Authors: Erlich Matthew D. , Rolin Stephanie A. , Dixon Lisa B. , Adler David A. , Oslin David W. , Levine Bruce , Berlant Jeffrey L. , Goldman Beth , Koh Steve , First Michael B. , Pabbati Chaitanya , Siris Samuel G.
Published: June 2017

Suicide prevention efforts are increasing to enhance capabilities and better understand risk factors and etiologies. Postvention, or how clinicians manage the postsuicide aftermath, strengthens suicide prevention, destigmatizes the tragedy, operationalizes the confusing aftermath, and promotes caregiver recovery. However, studies regarding its efficacy are minimal. The Psychopathology Committee of the Group for the Advancement for Psychiatry surveyed a convenience sample of psychiatrists to better understand postvention activities. Ninety psychiatrists completed the survey; they were predominantly men (72%) with an average of 24.6 years of experience (SD, 16.7 years). Most had contact with the patient's family within 6 months of the suicide, and most psychiatrists sought some form of support. Few psychiatrists used a suicide postvention procedure or toolkit (9%). No psychiatrists stopped clinical practice after a patient suicide, although 10% stopped accepting patients they deemed at risk of suicide. Postvention efforts, therefore, should be improved to better address survivor care.
Current Valuation of Pathology Service
Authors: Myles Jonathan L. , Cardona Diana M. , Klemp Todd , Wooding Ayanna , Black-Schaffer W. Stephen
Published: June 2017

Health care reform has accelerated as the existing health care system undergoes continuing financial stress. Medicare’s new value-based payment system, commonly referred to as MACRA, provides opportunities for physicians to participate in this new system in a variety of ways. However, many of the value-based adjustments are based on existing valuations of services through traditional mechanisms. To achieve appropriate valuation of pathologist’s services in the new payment models, it is imperative that we continue to achieve proper valuation of services through the traditional mechanisms.