bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecular identification and genotyping of Acinetobacter baumannii isolated from burn patients by PCR and ERIC-PCR
Authors: Falah Faezeh , Shokoohizadeh Leili , Adabi Maryam
Published: February 2019

Background:

Acinetobacter baumannii is one of the most important agents of hospital infections. Rapid and accurate identification and genotyping of A. baumannii is very important, especially in burn hospitals in order to prevent the spread of related nosocomial infections and to further epidemiological studies.

Material and methods:

For two months, 82 A. baumannii isolates were collected from burn wound swabs of patients in a major burn hospital in Tehran. A. baumannii isolates were identified by conventional microbiological test and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) using the primers of blaOXA-51 gene, while the genetic linkage of A. baumannii isolates was investigated by enterobacterial repetitive intragenic consensus (ERIC)-PCR technique. Similarity, a cut-off of ⩾ 95% was considered for classifying the genotypes.

Results:

The molecular test (PCR) confirmed 97.56% of phenotypic results for the detection of A. baumannii isolates. ERIC-PCR results revealed 14 different ERIC patterns (ERIC-types) including 11 common types and three unique types.

Conclusion:

Our findings show that we can simply and quickly detect A. baumannii isolates by PCR using blaOXA genes and genetic diversity by ERIC-PCR, respectively. These rapid and simple techniques for the routine screening and identification of clinical A. baumannii isolates could be useful with epidemic potential.
The Football Boost? Testing Three Models on Impacts on Sports Spectators’ Self-Esteem
Authors: Knobloch-Westerwick Silvia , Abdallah J.C. , Billings Andrew C.
Published: February 2019

To explain the wide attraction to sports, self-esteem impacts of a live American college football game were investigated; testing hypotheses were derived from mood-as-information, social identity, and sociometer frameworks along with previous research on sports and self-esteem. A three-wave field study measured mood, group affiliation, and self-esteem among 174 students at two different universities, immediately before and on 2 consecutive days after the football teams of these universities played in a much anticipated game. Both self-esteem and mood were affected 2 days after the game; however, fans of the winning team showed increased self-esteem (with no related mood improvement) while fans of the defeated team showed decreases in mood (with no related self-esteem deflation). Both the game outcome and the social viewing context influenced self-esteem. Impacts on self-esteem were mediated by both mood and group affiliation changes.
Hallux valgus among sales promotion women wearing high heels in a department store
Authors: Soemarko Dewi S , Rahmasari Fita , Kamal Achmad Fauzi , Cahayadi Sigit Daru , Herqutanto
Published: February 2019

Background:

Wearing high heels for an extended period of time can cause several pathological conditions in women’s feet, one of such is the hallux valgus (HV), as shown by a number of cross-sectional studies. This study aims to evaluate the incidence of HV among sales promotion women and to know the association of the high heel shoes with the severity of HV in that population.

Method:

This study used comparative cross-sectional design between two groups, wearing high heel and flat shoes; sales promotion women who work for at least 1 year were recruited as subjects by means of purposive sampling and were given questionnaires, and then physical and radiological examination of the foot were performed to detect any HV and its severity.

Result:

Incidence of HV is 25.25% (25 of 99) among subjects who were wearing high heel shoes and 10.87% (10 of 92) for those who were wearing flat shoes. Subjects wearing high heel shoes are 2.77 times (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.25–6.15; p = 0.01) more at risk for developing HV than those who wore flat shoes. The incidence of HV increases with age ( p < 0.05). Those who have been working for >4 years are 5.2 times (95% CI: 1.95–14.31) at more risk for developing HV than those who have been working for ≤4 years ( p < 0.001). The duration of wearing shoes per day, the type of toe box, and body mass index are not statistically significant with HV ( p > 0.05). The incidence of HV increased among overweight and obese subjects ( p > 0.05). The severity of HV in subjects was mostly mild to moderate.

Conclusion:

The incidence of HV is higher among sales promotion women who wear high heel shoes than flat shoes. Age and working experience are also related to the development of HV. Factors that affect the severity of HV cannot be shown in this study.
The preliminary report about the modified supramalleolar tibial osteotomy for asymmetric ankle osteoarthritis
Authors: Koo Ja Wook , Park Sang Hoon , Kim Ki Chun , Sung Il-Hoon
Published: February 2019

Objective:

Supramalleolar tibial osteotomy (SMO) for asymmetric ankle osteoarthritis (OA) is known to lead to satisfactory. Here, authors present a preliminary report on SMO surgical treatment in patients with asymmetric ankle arthritis.

Materials and Methods:

We reviewed cases of asymmetric ankle OA treated by modified SMO between January 2011 and October 2015. Clinical assessment was performed with the use of the ankle and hindfoot score of the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS), foot function index, and visual analogue scale (VAS). Patient satisfaction with surgery and postoperative subjective symptoms were examined. Radiographic evaluation included preoperative and postoperative tibial anterior surface angle (TAS angle), talar tilt angle (TT angle), and tibial lateral surface angle (TLS angle). Takakura stage was measured.

Results:

The average follow-up period was 46.3 months. The AOFAS score was 55.7 ± 6.03 preoperatively and 76.0 ± 4.73 postoperatively. Foot function index was 60.7 ± 8.78 preoperatively and 30.8 ± 7.59 postoperatively. VAS was 7.2 ± 0.53 before surgery and 1.9 ± 0.85 after surgery. Clinical evaluations showed statistically significant improvement. The majority of patients reported satisfactory results in the subjective satisfaction evaluation. TAS angle was 84.6 ± 1.82 preoperatively and 94.0 ± 2.79 postoperatively. TLS angle was 78.8 ± 2.11 preoperatively and 81.8 ± 1.80 postoperatively. TT angle was 3.6 ± 1.26 before surgery and 2.1 ± 0.79 after surgery. Thirteen cases showed radiographic improvement of Takakura stage. Complications were not observed.

Conclusion:

Modified SMO is a useful procedure that provides for the union and stability of osteotomy with the advantages of the existing SMO and can be performed without bone graft.
Reliability, Validity, and Factor Structure of the Internalized AIDS-Related Stigma Scale in Southern India
Authors: Chan Brian T. , Pradeep Amrose , Chandrasekaran Ezhilarasi , Prasad Lakshmi , Murugesan Vinothini , Kumarasamy Nagalingeswaran , Mayer Kenneth H. , Tsai Alexander C.
Published: February 2019

We used data from 660 people living with HIV in southern India to evaluate the reliability, validity, and factor structure of the Internalized AIDS-Related Stigma Scale. Exploratory factor analysis revealed the presence of 2 factors: a 2-item factor related to disclosure concerns and a 4-item factor related to self-hatred. The self-hatred factor demonstrated acceptable internal consistency (Cronbach α = .80). As evidence of construct validity, both factors were correlated with depression symptom severity as measured by the Patient Health Questionnaire-9. Further study is needed to understand the correlates of these factors and their impact on the Indian HIV care continuum.
Impact of the 7-Day Disabled List Rule Change on Economics and Performance After Reported Concussion Injuries in Major League Baseball
Authors: Chatha Kiran , Al-Mansoori Ahmed , Guo Eric , Whaley James D. , Sabesan Vani J.
Published: February 2019

Background:

The incidence of concussions is increasing in Major League Baseball (MLB), and the cost of these injuries in 2008 was reportedly as high as US$423 million. Team officials are more aware of concussion injuries, and one measure to address this issue was the creation of a concussion-specific 7-day disabled list (DL) in 2011.

Purpose:

To evaluate concussion trends among MLB players and the impact of concussion-specific 7-day DL status on postinjury player performance and team financials.

Study Design:

Descriptive epidemiology study.

Methods:

From 2005 to 2016, a total of 112 players placed on the DL because of a concussion were identified using the MLB website and were verified using established news databases. Salary information for players was collected using MLB published data, and cost was calculated with a previously published formula utilizing the injured player’s salary per game and adding the cost of his replacement. Performance metrics were compared before and after the rule change.

Results:

The mean number of days on the DL decreased from 38.8 before 2011 to 29.2 after 2011. The mean annual cost per player before 2011 was $1.1 million and decreased to $565,000 after the rule change. Regression analyses demonstrated a downward trend in the mean cost ( R = –0.61, P < .001). A comparison of postinjury performance metrics showed no significant differences with decreased time on the DL.

Conclusion:

The minimum 7-day DL change has not had a negative impact on reporting; instead, it has demonstrated decreased time on the DL and lower associated team costs. Performance metrics demonstrated no differences compared with before the rule change, suggesting that players are not negatively affected by decreased time on the DL.
Remittances, Bank Concentration and Credit Availability in Nigeria
Authors: Ajide Folorunsho M.
Published: February 2019

The concentration of the Nigerian financial sector has long been recognised to be an important factor affecting the financial stability and welfare at an individual level in the economy. While various studies have been conducted to examine the sensitivity of this phenomenon to macro economy, little has been done to examine the effect of concentration on credit availability in Nigeria. In addition, no study has investigated the role of remittances on the relationship between bank concentration and availability of credit. Taking motivation from the Nigerian banking consolidation exercise, this article examined the effect of remittances and bank concentration on availability of credit in Nigeria. The author employed the autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) bound test approach for co-integration on Nigerian data for the period of 1986–2015. The results revealed that bank concentration constrains the development of financial sector in Nigeria and remittances improve the level of financial development (credit availability) in the long run but inhibit the availability of credit in the short run. The negative relationship occurs in the short run because of the regulatory framework governing international money transfers in Nigeria, which simply inhibits competition. In the long run, recipients who have received remittances from informal settings would need financial products and services in which those remittances would be banked and further improve the financial sector. It was concluded that since Nigerian financial sector remained underdeveloped, the sector could be driven by encouraging inflow of remittances into the country. Our findings also persist after batteries of robustness check.
The Case for an IGAD Development Bank
Authors: Michael Bryane
Published: February 2019

A multilateral development finance institution for the Inter-Governmental Authority on Development (IGAD) region represents the chance to create a strong pro-developmental actor—and energise the IGAD itself. Yet, senior IGAD officials will need to look beyond the traditional development banking model if they hope to make an impact of the scale needed to drag these poorest of countries out of poverty. In this article, the author argues for the design of a development bank modelled after successful role models—like the China Development Bank—instead of proven failures. A mix of government and private sector participation, a widely disbursed capital base and a temporary base in London will help ensure the proposed IGAD Communities Development Bank acts as bridge and vector of pro-developmental capitalism in the IGAD region.
Examining Growth–Inequality Nexus in Post-reform Odisha: A Sectoral Decomposition Analysis
Authors: Sahoo Priyabrata , Paltasingh Kirtti Ranjan
Published: February 2019

This article examines the nexus between economic growth and inequality in Odisha at sectoral level for the post-reform period. Odisha has witnessed high economic growth in the post-reform period. With high growth rate, the sectoral composition of income has also registered a major change. However, the post-reform period too witnessed an increase in disparities in income among the sectors and increased inequality. So the question that normally arises here is whether the sector witnessing high growth remains the major contributor to income inequality in the state during the post-reform period? While seeking an answer to this question, we observed that the primary sector which is growing at a low rate caused a reduction in inequality. But, the tertiary sector which is the main driver of overall economic growth in Odisha in the post-reform period remains the major contributor to the rise in inequality. The study supports the hypothesis found at national level that a sector driving the overall economic growth also positively contributes to inequality.
Effect of Radial Neck Length on Joint Loading
Authors: Berkmortel Carolyn J , Gladwell Michael S , Ng Jennifer , Ferreira Louis M , Athwal George S , Johnson James A , King Graham JW
Published: February 2019

Introduction: Load transfer across the radiocapitellar joint of the elbow is poorly understood both in the setting of the native radial head and following radial head arthroplasty. The purpose of this in vitro study was to determine the effects of radial neck length, arm position, and lateral collateral ligament (LCL) repair on radial load.Methods: A uniaxial load cell was implanted into the radial neck of 8 cadaveric specimens that were mounted on an in vitro motion-control simulator and tested (in dependent, varus, and valgus arm orientations) with the native radial neck length and then −4 to +4 mm lengths. Testing was performed with the LCL intact and after sectioning and repair.Results: There was no significant difference between the 2 LCL states (P = .82), and LCL state was not protective of proximal radius overlengthening. Radial loads increased with increasing radial length (P < .001).Discussion and Conclusion: Overlengthening the radial neck resulted in higher compression forces, and underlengthening produced tensile forces, demonstrating that restoration of correct radial length during radial head arthroplasty is important to restore physiologic loading. In the varus position, tensile loading occurred, which may explain clinical problems with ingrowth of uncemented radial head implant stems and dissociation of bipolar implants.
Bilateral Ischemic Optic Neuropathy Following Intravenous Immunoglobulin
Authors: Ansari Waseem H. , Patrick Brittany K. , Smith Bradley T.
Published: February 2019

Purpose:

The purpose of this work is to report an association between intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) infusions and the development of bilateral ischemic optic neuropathy.

Methods:

A case report is described.

Results:

A 76-year-old male receiving IVIG infusions developed loss of vision in the left eye and was diagnosed with ischemic optic neuropathy. Two months later, he developed another episode of ischemic optic neuropathy in the contralateral eye. The investigation for giant-cell arteritis, vasculopathy, and infiltrative processes was negative. The patient had minimal improvement in visual acuity over several months of follow-up.

Conclusions:

Bilateral ischemic optic neuropathy was likely caused by IVIG infusion in this case, given the temporal relationship and the negative workup for other risk factors.
Factors Associated With an Interest in Practice-Based Research Among Pharmacists in Nigeria
Authors: Shitu Zayyanu , Jatau AI , Mustapha Mohammed , Gulma Kabiru Abubakar , Ado Baraka , Sha’aban Abubakar
Published: February 2019

Background: Practice-based research (PBR) is employed in the pharmacy profession to improve the quality and efficiency of health care delivery. Although widely practiced in developed countries, it is rarely used in developing countries, including Nigeria. Objectives: To determine the factors associated with Nigerian pharmacists’ interest in PBR. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study utilizing an online survey. Pharmacists currently practicing in Nigeria were invited to participate. A hyperlink to the online questionnaire was shared with members of relevant professional bodies via Facebook, WhatsApp, and Twitter. Reminders were sent to facilitate a high response rate. Factors associated with pharmacists’ interest in PBR were determined using multiple logistic regression. Results: Two hundred and three completed responses were received from the survey. The majority, 94.6% (192), expressed an interest in PBR and believed that it would enhance their pharmacy practice and role in patient care. The multivariable analysis showed that pharmacists’ interest in publishing their research findings in peer-reviewed journals (odds ratio = 0.004, 95% confidence interval = 0.00-0.05, P < .001) and their knowledge of the professional relevance of research pertaining to their area of practice within the health care system (odds ratio = 0.02, 95% confidence interval = 0.00-0.47, P = .015) were found to be independent predictors of pharmacists’ interest in PBR. Conclusion: There is an interest in PBR among practicing pharmacists in Nigeria. The provision of evidence-based pharmaceutical services in Nigeria will be enhanced by interventions that encourage the conduct of research and publication of research findings, and by improving knowledge of the professional relevance of PBR in pharmacy practice areas.
The global clonal complexity of the murine blood system declines throughout life and after serial transplantation
Authors: Ganuza Miguel , Hall Trent , Finkelstein David , Wang Yong-Dong , Chabot Ashley , Kang Guolian , Bi Wenjian , Wu Gang , McKinney-Freeman Shannon
Published: February 2019

Although many recent studies describe the emergence and prevalence of “clonal hematopoiesis of indeterminate potential” in aged human populations, a systematic analysis of the numbers of clones supporting steady-state hematopoiesis throughout mammalian life is lacking. Previous efforts relied on transplantation of “barcoded” hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) to track the contribution of HSC clones to reconstituted blood. However, ex vivo manipulation and transplantation alter HSC function and thus may not reflect the biology of steady-state hematopoiesis. Using a noninvasive in vivo color-labeling system, we report the first comprehensive analysis of the changing global clonal complexity of steady-state hematopoiesis during the natural murine lifespan. We observed that the number of clones (ie, clonal complexity) supporting the major blood and bone marrow hematopoietic compartments decline with age by ∼30% and ∼60%, respectively. Aging dramatically reduced HSC in vivo–repopulating activity and lymphoid potential while increasing functional heterogeneity. Continuous challenge of the hematopoietic system by serial transplantation provoked the clonal collapse of both young and aged hematopoietic systems. Whole-exome sequencing of serially transplanted aged and young hematopoietic clones confirmed oligoclonal hematopoiesis and revealed mutations in at least 27 genes, including nonsense, missense, and deletion mutations in Bcl11b, Hist1h2ac, Npy2r, Notch3, Ptprr, and Top2b.
Carbon ion radiotherapy boost in the treatment of glioblastoma: a randomized phase I/III clinical trial
Authors: Kong Lin , Gao Jing , Hu Jiyi , Lu Rong , Yang Jing , Qiu Xianxin , Hu Weixu , Lu Jiade J.
Published: February 2019

Background

Glioblastoma (GBM) is a highly virulent tumor of the central nervous system, with a median survival < 15 months. Clearly, an improvement in treatment outcomes is needed. However, the emergence of these malignancies within the delicate brain parenchyma and their infiltrative growth pattern severely limit the use of aggressive local therapies. The particle therapy represents a new promising therapeutic approach to circumvent these prohibitive conditions with improved treatment efficacy.

Methods and design

Patients with newly diagnosed malignant gliomas will have their tumor tissue samples submitted for the analysis of the status of O‐6‐methylguanine‐DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) promoter methylation. In Phase I, the patients will undergo an induction carbon ion radiotherapy (CIRT) boost followed by 60 GyE of proton irradiation with concurrent temozolomide (TMZ) at 75 mg/m2. To determine the maximal dose of safe induction boost, the tolerance, and acute toxicity rates in a dose‐escalation manner from 9 to 18 GyE in three fractions will be used. In Phase III, GBM‐only patients will be randomized to receive either 60 GyE (2 GyE per fraction) of proton irradiation with concurrent TMZ (control arm) or a CIRT boost (dose determined in Phase I of this trial) followed by 60 GyE of proton irradiation with concurrent TMZ. The primary endpoints are overall survival (OS) and toxicity rates (acute and long‐term). Secondary endpoints are progression‐free survival (PFS), and tumor response (based upon assessment with C‐methionine/fluoro‐ethyl‐tyrosine positron emission tomography [MET/FET PET] or magnetic resonance imaging [MRI] and detection of serologic immune markers). We hypothesize that the induction CIRT boost will result in a greater initial tumor‐killing ability and prime the tumor microenvironment for enhanced immunologic tumor clearance, resulting in an expected 33% improvement in OS rates.

Discussion

The prognosis of GBM remains grim. The mechanism underpinning the poor prognosis of this malignancy is its chronic state of tumor hypoxia, which promotes both immunosuppression/immunologic evasion and radio‐resistance. The unique physical and biological properties of CIRT are expected to overcome these microenvironmental limitations to confer an improved tumor‐killing ability and anti‐tumor immune response, which could result in an improvement in OS with minimal toxicity.

Trial registration number This trial has been registered with the China Clinical Trials Registry, and was allocated the number ChiCTR‐OID‐17013702.
West German Study PlanB Trial: Adjuvant Four Cycles of Epirubicin and Cyclophosphamide Plus Docetaxel Versus Six Cycles of Docetaxel and Cyclophosphamide in HER2-Negative Early Breast Cancer
Authors: Nitz Ulrike , Gluz Oleg , Clemens Michael , Malter Wolfram , Reimer Toralf , Nuding Benno , Aktas Bahriye , Stefek Andrea , Pollmanns Anke , Lorenz-Salehi Fatemeh , Uleer Christoph , Krabisch Petra , Kuemmel Sherko , Liedtke Cornelia , Shak Steven , Wuerstlein Rachel , Christgen Matthias , Kates Ronald E. , Kreipe Hans H. , Harbeck Nadia ,   on behalf of the West German Study Group PlanB Investigators
Published: February 2019

PURPOSE

The West German Study Group PlanB trial evaluated an anthracycline-free chemotherapy standard (six cycles of docetaxel and cyclophosphamide [TC]) in the routine treatment of human epidermal growth factor receptor 2–negative early breast cancer (EBC).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients with pT1 to pT4c, all pN+, and pN0/high-risk EBC were eligible. High-risk pN0 was defined by one or more of the following: pT greater than 2, grade 2 to 3, high urokinase-type plasminogen activator/plasminogen activator inhibitor-1, hormone receptor (HR) negativity, and less than 35 years of age. After an early amendment, all HR-positive tumors underwent recurrence score (RS) testing, with chemotherapy omission recommended in RS less than or equal to 11 pN0 to pN1 disease. Patients were randomly assigned to four cycles of epirubicin (E)90/cyclophoshamide (C)600 followed by four cycles of docetaxel (T)100 or six cycles of T75C600 (administered once every 3 weeks). The primary end point was disease-free survival (DFS); secondary end points were overall survival (OS) and safety. The protocol specified P = .05 for a noninferiority margin of 4.4% for all patients combined.

RESULTS

Of the 3,198 registered patients, 348 (RS ≤ 11) omitted chemotherapy, and 401 were not randomly assigned. The intention-to-treat population included 2,449 patients (1,227 EC-T v 1,222 TC: postmenopausal, 62.2% v 60.8%; pN0, 58.2% v 59.5%; pT1, 57.6% v 52.3%; HR positive, 81.4% v 82.2%; RS greater than 25 [in HR-positive patients], 26.2% v 27.5%). Within the safety population (1,167 v 1,178 patients), 87.5% v 93.0% completed therapy. After a 60-month median follow-up, 5-year outcomes were similar in the EC-T and TC arms (DFS, 89.6% [95% CI, 87.9% to 91.5%] v 89.9% [95% CI, 88.1% to 91.8%]; OS, 94.5% [95% CI, 93.1% to 95.9%] v 94.7% [95% CI, 93.3% to 96.1%]). The DFS difference was within the noninferiority margin of the original trial design. Five treatment-related deaths were reported for TC (one for EC-T), despite a trend toward more-severe adverse events in the latter. Interaction analysis revealed no predictive trends with respect to key factors, including triple-negative, luminal A/B-like, pN, age, and RS status.

CONCLUSION

In the West German Study Group PlanB trial, 5-year outcomes for TC and EC-T were equally excellent. Six cycles of TC is an effective/safe option in human epidermal growth factor receptor 2–negative EBC with pN0 high genomic risk or pN1 EBC with genomically intermediate- to high-risk disease.
Maintenance Defactinib Versus Placebo After First-Line Chemotherapy in Patients With Merlin-Stratified Pleural Mesothelioma: COMMAND—A Double-Blind, Randomized, Phase II Study
Authors: Fennell Dean A. , Baas Paul , Taylor Paul , Nowak Anna K. , Gilligan David , Nakano Takashi , Pachter Jonathan A. , Weaver David T. , Scherpereel Arnaud , Pavlakis Nick , van Meerbeeck Jan P. , Cedrés Susana , Nolan Luke , Kindler Hedy , Aerts Joachim G.J.V.
Published: February 2019

PURPOSE

Inhibition of focal adhesion kinase has been shown to selectively kill mesothelioma cells that express low levels of moesin-ezrin-radixin-like protein (merlin). On this basis, we designed a randomized, phase II trial to investigate whether defactinib as maintenance therapy after standard first-line chemotherapy could improve progression-free survival (PFS) in patients with malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM).

METHODS

This global, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial was conducted in patients with advanced MPM and disease control after at least four cycles of first-line chemotherapy. Patients were stratified for merlin and then randomly assigned (in a 1:1 fashion) to receive either oral defactinib or placebo until disease progression, unacceptable toxicity, or withdrawal occurred. The coprimary end points were PFS and overall survival (OS). Quality of life (QoL) was assessed using the Lung Cancer Symptom Scale for Mesothelioma tool.

RESULTS

Three hundred forty-four patients were randomly assigned to receive either defactinib (n = 173) or placebo (n = 171). The median PFS was 4.1 months (95% CI, 2.9 to 5.6 months) for defactinib versus 4.0 months (95% CI, 2.9 to 4.2 months) for placebo. The median OS was 12.7 months (95% CI, 9.1 to 21 months) for defactinib versus 13.6 months (95% CI, 9.6 to 21.2 months) for placebo (hazard ratio, 1.0; 95% CI, 0.7 to 1.4). Although shorter survival for both defactinib- and placebo-treated patients was observed, in the patients who had merlin-low MPM compared with the patients who had merlin-high MPM, there were no statistical differences in response rate, PFS, OS, or QoL between the treatment groups. The most common grade 3 or worse adverse events were nausea, diarrhea, fatigue, dyspnea, and decreased appetite.

CONCLUSION

Neither PFS nor OS was improved by defactinib after first-line chemotherapy in patients with merlin-low MPM. Defactinib cannot be recommended as maintenance therapy for advanced MPM.
A Simplified Approach to Reducing Cardiovascular Risk
Authors: Schade David S , Eaton R Philip
Published: February 2019

Context

Cardiovascular disease remains the number one cause of morbidity and mortality in the United States, despite major advances in our understanding of its pathogenesis and prevention. One reason for this continued epidemic is the poor adherence to treatment guidelines by caregivers and the lack of understanding by patients relative to its reversibility with treatment. Current guidelines are complex and often contradictory; there are at least 21 organizations publishing guidelines.

Objective

This article proposes a simplified approach that is based on the low-density lipoprotein (LDL) hypothesis stating that the lower the LDL cholesterol (LDL-C), the less the cardiovascular disease. This goal focuses on obtaining a plasma LDL-C <50 mg/dL.

Design

A positive coronary artery calcium scan in conjunction with an intermediate online cardiovascular risk score will identify individuals with substantial cardiovascular disease risk. With lifestyle improvements (including a low cholesterol diet) and low-dose hypolipemic generic oral medications, this LDL-C concentration is readily achievable in the majority of asymptomatic patients at risk for atherosclerosis.

Conclusion

Controlling the cardiovascular epidemic will require participation of both the patient and the physician caregiver. By simplifying the therapeutic regimen, patient compliance will increase, and an important reduction in cardiovascular morbidity and mortality will follow.
Gene-environment interaction impacts on heart development and embryo survival
Authors: Moreau Julie L. M. , Kesteven Scott , Martin Ella M. M. A. , Lau Kin S. , Yam Michelle X. , O'Reilly Victoria C. , del Monte-Nieto Gonzalo , Baldini Antonio , Feneley Michael P. , Moon Anne M. , Harvey Richard P. , Sparrow Duncan B. , Chapman Gavin , Dunwoodie Sally L.
Published: February 2019

Congenital heart disease (CHD) is the most common type of birth defect. In recent years, research has focussed on identifying the genetic causes of CHD. However, only a minority of CHD cases can be attributed to single gene mutations. In addition, studies have identified different environmental stressors that promote CHD, but the additive effect of genetic susceptibility and environmental factors is poorly understood. In this context, we have investigated the effects of short-term gestational hypoxia on mouse embryos genetically predisposed to heart defects. Exposure of mouse embryos heterozygous for Tbx1 or Fgfr1/Fgfr2 to hypoxia in utero increased the incidence and severity of heart defects while Nkx2-5+/− embryos died within 2 days of hypoxic exposure. We identified the molecular consequences of the interaction between Nkx2-5 and short-term gestational hypoxia, which suggest that reduced Nkx2-5 expression and a prolonged hypoxia-inducible factor 1α response together precipitate embryo death. Our study provides insight into the causes of embryo loss and variable penetrance of monogenic CHD, and raises the possibility that cases of foetal death and CHD in humans could be caused by similar gene-environment interactions.
Contraction of atrial smooth muscle reduces cardiac output in perfused turtle hearts
Authors: Joyce William , Axelsson Michael , Wang Tobias
Published: February 2019

Unusual undulations in resting tension (tonus waves) were described in isolated atria from freshwater turtle more than a century ago. These tonus waves were soon after married with the histological demonstration of a rich layer of smooth muscle on the luminal side of the atrial wall. Research thereafter waned and the functional significance of this smooth muscle has remained obscure. Here we provide evidence that contraction of the smooth muscle in the atria may be able to change cardiac output in turtle hearts. In in situ perfused hearts of the red-eared slider turtle (Trachemys scripta), we demonstrated that activation of smooth muscle contraction with histamine (100 nmol kg−1 bolus injected into perfusate) reduced cardiac output by decreasing stroke volume (> 50% decrease in both parameters). Conversely, inhibition of smooth muscle contraction with wortmannin (10 µM perfusion) approximately doubled baseline stroke volume and cardiac output. We suggest that atrial smooth muscle provides a unique mechanism to control cardiac filling that could be involved in the regulation of stroke volume during diving.
Global CO2 emission reduction policies and West African electricity system: Case for transformational access
Authors: Momodu Abiodun Suleiman , Addo Ahmad
Published: February 2019

Based on the UN Human Development Index, the West African sub-region holds one of lowest indices in development around the world. There is a glaring need for the sub-region to increase its electricity capacity; however, stringent global CO2 policies have ‘choking’ effects on the growth of the electricity sector in energy deprived countries, like the West African Member States. This study examines the West Africa electric power sector under a range of technological, economic, and policy-related uncertainties, positing that there is the need to frame policies from the premise of ‘need’ rather than a ‘circumstantial’ perspective, which, in this study, relates to the global policies on CO2 emission reduction.

Though CO2 is the inevitable by-product of combusting fossil fuels to generate electricity, it should also be viewed from the perspective of its significant benefits as regards provision of social welfare of individuals. This study evaluated the broad strategies in policy formulation and implementation (top-down versus bottom-up analysis) and applied these strategies to examine investment decision versus pricing regime and electricity system value chain (upstream versus downstream analysis). System dynamics principles were used to forecast what future consumption will look like, which shows that there would be marked increase in demand followed by increased emission without intervention.

This study concludes that global CO2 policy would need to be re-considered such that energy deprived countries, like those in West Africa, would be able to implement a sustainable development agenda through growth strategy of bottom-up approach to ‘free’ their electricity system for improved living standard, irrespective of climate change issues.
The second generation of The Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children (ALSPAC-G2): a cohort profile
Authors: Lawlor Deborah A. , Lewcock Melanie , Rena-Jones Louise , Rollings Claire , Yip Vikki , Smith Daniel , Pearson Rebecca M. , Johnson Laura , Millard Louise A. C. , Patel Nashita , Skinner Andy , Tilling Kate ,   ALSPAC Executive
Published: February 2019

Background: The Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children-Generation 2 (ALSPAC-G2) was set up to provide a unique multi-generational cohort. It builds on the existing ALSPAC resource, which recruited 14,541 pregnancies to women resident in the South West of England who were expected to deliver between 01/04/1991 and 31/12/1992. Those women and their partners (Generation 0; ALSPAC-G0) and their offspring (ALSPAC-G1) have been followed for the last 26 years. This profile describes recruitment and data collection on the next generation (ALSPAC-G2)—the grandchildren of ALSPAC-G0 and children of ALSPAC-G1.

Recruitment: Recruitment began on the 6th of June 2012 and we present details of recruitment and participants up to 30th June 2018 (~6 years). We knew at the start of recruitment that some ALSPAC-G1 participants had already become parents and ALSPAC-G2 is an open cohort; we recruit at any age. We hope to continue recruiting until all ALSPAC-G1 participants have completed their families. Up to 30th June 2018 we recruited 810 ALSPAC-G2 participants from 548 families. Of these 810, 389 (48%) were recruited during their mother’s pregnancy, 287 (35%) before age 3 years, 104 (13%) between 3-6 years and 30 (4%) after 6 years. Over 70% of those invited to early pregnancy, late pregnancy, second week of life, 6-, 12- and 24-month assessments (whether for their recruitment, or a follow-up, visit) have attended, with attendance being over 60% for subsequent visits up to 7 years (to few are eligible for the 9- and 11-year assessments to analyse).

Data collection: We collect a wide-range of social, lifestyle, clinical, anthropometric and biological data on all family members repeatedly. Biological samples include blood (including cord-blood), urine, meconium and faeces, and placental tissue. In subgroups detailed data collection, such as continuous glucose monitoring and videos of parent-child interactions, are being collected.
Bank Guarantees Accepted As Security for an Application and Performance of a Contract: Current Issues
Authors: Проданова Н. , Prodanova N. , Зацаринная Е. , Zatsarinnaya E.
Published: February 2019

Th e article is devoted to the changes made in part 2 of article 44 and part 52 of article 112 of the Law on the contract system and Government Decree No. 1005 of 08.11.2013, which will come into force from 01.07.2019 in respect of securing applications for tenders and auctions held in electronic form. In particular, innovations concerning the rules of application of bank guarantees are considered. Th e issues are disclosed related to the refl ection in the accounting and tax accounting operations on bank guarantees.
Reducing emergency admissions for primary constipation: a pilot study to cut costs in an acute hospital trust
Authors: Blythin Sandra , McAteer Julie , Crook Zoe , Walker Mike
Published: February 2019

Background:

Constipation is a common condition that impacts quality of life, often causing psychological distress and incurring considerable healthcare costs in terms of unnecessary emergency admissions due to poor management. Aintree University Hospital has a healthy bowel clinic for treating patients presenting with functional bowel disorders, including constipation, in an outpatient setting. From December 2013 to November 2014, 301 patients were admitted to hospital with a primary diagnosis of constipation, 216 of these through the accident and emergency department, with an average length of stay of 3.3 days.

Methods:

To prevent unnecessary admission, a successful bid provided £16 000 to fund a 12-month pilot study to develop a new emergency constipation pathway, including an emergency constipation clinic and linked to the main healthy bowel clinic.

Results:

Over the pilot study period, more than 70 patients were seen through the new pathway, which saved 231 bed days. At an average cost per bed day of £400, this equates to a total annual saving of £92 400.

Conclusion:

A new emergency pathway linked to an already established outpatient clinic prevented admission of patients presenting with primary constipation.
A common language
Authors: Rey Jean-Francois , Ragunath Krish
Published: February 2019

President Jean-Francois Rey and Research Committee Chair Krish Ragunath introduce the aims and activities of the World Endoscopy Organization
Up close
Authors: Piper Laura , Green Verity
Published: February 2019

A Baby Room Project in East Sussex is improving interactions with children under 18 months, report Laura Piper and Verity Green
Род Alchemilla L., 1753 (Rosaceae) во флоре Республики Тыва (Россия, Южная Сибирь)
Authors: Chkalov A. V.
Published: February 2019

На основе ревизии сборов в ведущих гербариях страны во флоре Республики Тыва зарегистрировано 34 вида рода Alchemilla, с высокой вероятностью можно ожидать обнаружение еще одного вида (A. krylovii). Впервые для региона зарегистрировано 20 видов, а также включены в перечень A. inversa, описанная с территории республики, а также A. pachyphylla, по ошибке не учтенные в предыдущей флористической обработке. Для трех видов (A. aperta, A. bungei, A. dasyclada), приведенных ранее на основе ошибочных определений, подтверждено произрастание на территории Тывы. Три вида (A. rigescens, A. monticola, A. rubens), указанных прежде, предлагается исключить из списка в связи с переопределением образцов. Для видов приведены номенклатурные цитаты, данные о распространении в природных районах республики, встречаемости, предпочитаемых местообитаниях, принадлежности к группам экологических и хорологических элементов. Для указанного перечня видов составлен ключ.
New data on the distribution of digger wasps of the genus Ammophila W. Kirby, 1798 (Hymenoptera, Sphecidae)
Authors: Baghirov R. T.-o , Nesterovich A. A.
Published: February 2019

An annotated list is given and the distribution of five species of digger wasps genus Ammophila, collected in the circumpolar regions of Western Siberia (in the Yamalo-Nenets Autonomous District) in 2017, is specified.
Description of a new species of Chrysina Kirby, 1828 (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Rutelinae) from resplendens group, based on morphological characters and mtDNA COX I molecular marker
Authors: Zubov A. S. , Ivshin N. V. , Titarenko A. Yu. , Andrianov B. V.
Published: February 2019

A new species of the genus Chrysina Kirby, 1828 is decribed from Panama. Chrysina kalinini sp.n. is related to Chrysina resplendens (Boucard, 1875) in habitus, male genitalia morphology and mtDNA COX I molecular marker). The two closely related species differ in the shape of pronotum, mesosternal process and male genitalia. mtDNA COI molecular marker analysis gives a reliable distance for the compared species.
Effect of dietary boron on learning and behavior in rats administered with boric acid
Authors: Ozdemir Hulya , Yaren Biljana , Oto Gokhan
Published: February 2019

This study was designed to investigate the effect of dietary boron on spatial learning, anxiety, some vitamins and oxidative parameters in rats. Thirty-two Wistar albino male rats were used in the study. The rats were equally divided into four groups with 8 rats each: I control group: standard pellet diet only, II. group: 250 ppm boric acid, III. group: 500 ppm boric acid and IV. group: 1000 ppm boric acid added into standard pellet diet. Over a five-week period, elevated plus-maze test was used for anxiety assessment and Morris water maze test was used for evaluating spatial learning. Additionally, blood samples were obtained at the end of the experiment and were used to determine the serum levels of some vitamins and oxidative parameters. Dietary boron significantly increased weight gain (p<0.001) and food consumption in the 250 ppm and 500 ppm groups (p<0.05). Although boron supplementation had no significant effect on learning and anxiety-related behavior, it had beneficiary effects on memory retention in the 1000 ppm group (p<0.05). Biochemical analyses showed a significant decrease in the MDA levels (p<0.05) and an increase in vitamin D3 levels (p<0.01) in the 500 ppm group, a significant increase in GSH-Px activity in the 250 ppm and 500 ppm groups (p<0.05), and a decrease in vitamin E levels in all the experimental groups (p<0.05). In conclusion, our study demonstrated that dietary boron can be beneficial for health when administered at appropriate doses.
Thiamine leads to oxidative stress resistance via regulation of the glucose metabolism
Authors: Kartal Burcu , Palabiyik Bedia
Published: February 2019

Thiamine diphosphate (ThDP) is an essential cofactor for important enzymes in carbohydrate, amino acid and lipid metabolisms. It is also known that thiamine plays an important role in stress response of some organisms. In this study, we focused on the effect of thiamine on stress responses triggered by various stress agents. For this purpose, firstly, viability of Schizosaccharomyces pombe cell cultures was examined under oxidative, osmotic and heat stresses. The highest tolerance observed in cell viability due to the presence of extracellular thiamine (1.5 µM) was found only against oxidative stress. Then, enzyme activity of catalase and superoxide dismutase (SOD) involved in antioxidant defense mechanism and the expression analysis of genes encoding enzymes related to glucose metabolism and stress response pathways were investigated under oxidative stress. In this condition, it was not observed any difference in SOD and catalase activities, and their gene expressions due to the presence of thiamine, whereas the upregulation of pyruvate dehydrogenase (pdb1), transketolase (SPBC2G5.05), fructose-1,6-bis-phosphatase (fbp1) and the downregulation of pyruvate decarboxylase (pdc201) were observed. In conclusion, these findings suggest that extracellular thiamine leading to oxidative stress resistance have an impact on the regulation of glucose metabolism by shifting the energy generation from fermentation to respiration.
Sprawozdanie z konferencji naukowej W kręgu rodziny epok dawnych – rytmy życia, rytmy codzienności. Kobieta i mężczyzna. Dwa światy – jedna przestrzeń, Kraków, 15–16 października 2014 r.
Authors: Chłosta-Sikorska Agnieszka
Published: February 2019

Sprawozdanie z konferencji naukowej W kręgu rodziny epok dawnych – rytmy życia, rytmy codzienności. Kobieta i mężczyzna. Dwa światy – jedna przestrzeń, Kraków, 15–16 października 2014 r.
Konferencja międzynarodowa Koncepcja Planu Daltońskiego w edukacji elementarnej – wiedza i praktyka 19 listopada 2014 roku
Authors: Nowak-Kluczyński Konrad
Published: February 2019

Konferencja międzynarodowa Koncepcja Planu Daltońskiego w edukacji elementarnej – wiedza i praktyka 19 listopada 2014 roku
II Ogólnopolska Interdyscyplinarna Konferencja Naukowa, Światopoglądowo- społeczne koncepcje wychowania i edukacji akademickiego Lublina, Lublin 7–8 listopada 2014
Authors: Gołdyn Piotr
Published: February 2019

II Ogólnopolska Interdyscyplinarna Konferencja Naukowa, Światopoglądowo-społeczne koncepcje wychowania i edukacji akademickiego Lublina, Lublin 7–8 listopada 2014
Polish and German Industry Guidelines in the Scope of Preparation of Certified Translations in a Contrastive Approach ‒ Practical Implications for Drawing Certified Translations of Polish and German Court Judgments
Authors: Sekuła Justyna
Published: February 2019

In the paper, the author undertakes a contrasting comparison of Polish industry guidelines for the preparation of certified translations contained in the Sworn translator’s code with the following German guidelines: Richtlinien und Hinweise für die Anfertigung von Urkunden-übersetzungen and Empfehlungen für die Anfertigung bestätigter/ beglaubigter Übersetzungen. Next, the results of the above comparison are referred to the certified translation of Polish and German court judgments.
Processing latencies of competing forms in analogical levelling as evidence of frequency effects on entrenchment in ongoing language change
Authors: Krause-Lerche Anne
Published: February 2019

The reason which is generally given in the usage-based literature to account for the retention of irregularity in high frequency items during analogical change isentrenchment: a frequently occurring irregular linguistic unit resists analogical levelling because it is highly entrenched in speakers’ mental lexicons through its repeated use. Although previous research similarly suggests that the entrenchment of irregular and regularised forms competing during analogical levelling should be proportional to their frequency of use, evidence for this relation between frequency and entrenchment comes exclusively from corpus-based studies; what is missing, therefore, are behavioural tests contrasting the competing innovative and conservative forms. The present paper aims to provide converging evidence for an entrenchment-based explanation of frequency patterns in analogical change on the basis of data obtained from an experiment in which participants are presented with traditional and analogical variants of a variable currently undergoing analogical levelling. Differences in processing latencies obtained during the experiment are interpreted as differences in entrenchment. The results provide i) evidence in favour of the prevalent entrenchment-based explanation of the conserving effect of frequency in analogical change, and ii) evidence of the current state and spread of the change under investigation.