bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Physicochemical Properties of Processed Aerial Yam (Dioscorea bulbifera) and Sensory Properties of Paste (Amala) Prepared with Cassava Flour
Authors: Kayode R. M. O. , Buhari O. J. , Otutu L. O. , Ajibola T. B. , Oyeyinka S. A. , Opaleke D. O. , Akeem S. A.
Published: May 2017

Aerial yam is a member of the Dioscoreaceae family which consist several varieties found in South Asia and Africa. The tubers are under-utilized and not commercially grown; but are cultivated and consumed among rural dwellers in parts of Western Nigeria. The tubers were washed, sorted, peeled, sliced and blanched in hot water at 80ºC for 10min. The blanched yam slices were divided into four portions. Two portions were fermented for 48hr and sun (BFSUD) and solar (BFSOD) dried. The other two blanched portions were also sun (BSUD) and solar (BSOD) dried respectively. The dried slices were milled, sieved and used for proximate, functional and phytochemical analysis. Proximate composition of aerial yam flour was: moisture content (7.66-10.60%), total ash (0.05-1.76%), crude protein (4.42-5.07%), crude fibre (0.56-0.69%), crude fat (3.42-3.82%), and carbohydrate (79.28-82.37%). The phytochemical constituent included alkaloid, steroids, saponin and flavonoid. The bulk density, water absorption capacity and dispersibility were within the range of 0.52-0.54g/ml, 56.50-66.00g/g and 4.47-5.75% respectively. The sample, BFSUD had the highest crude protein, dispersibility and water absorption capacity was selected and mixed with cassava flour for amala on which sensory evaluation was conducted. Five aerial yam flour (AY) treatments were formulated and coded as follow: AY100, AY80CS20, AY60CS40, AY40CS60, and AY20CS80. Cassava flour (CS100) was used as control treatment. The overall acceptability of flour paste (amala) ranged from 5.45 (Sample AY80CS20) to 7.25 (sample AY100). The study revealed treatment AY60CS40 and AY80CS20 possessed the overall acceptability, mean score above 7.0 (like slightly). Therefore 60-80% incorporation of aerial yam flour with cassava is recommended based on desirable sensory characteristics. Aerial yam flour can be used for food preparation and commercial purpose which may in turn increase the utilization.
First report of cyanobacterial paralytic shellfish toxin biosynthesis genes and paralytic shellfish toxin production in Polish freshwater lakes
Authors: Savela Henna , Spoof Lisa , Perälä Niina , Vehniäinen Markus , Mankiewicz-Boczek Joanna , Jurczak Tomasz , Kokociński Mikolaj , Meriluoto Jussi
Published: May 2017

In central and southern Europe, Aphanizomenon spp., A. gracile Lemmermann in particular, have been associated with paralytic shellfish toxin (PST) production. In western Poland, A. gracile is very common, and Cylindrospermopsis raciborskii (Woloszyńska) Seenayya & Subba Raju, another potentially PST-producing species, is often found as well. To date it is, however, unknown if the cyanobacterial populations in this area harbour the genetic capability to produce PSTs, and to what extent toxin biosynthesis occurs. The objective of this study was to survey the prevalence of potentially PST-producing cyanobacteria by measuring paralytic shellfish toxin biosynthesis gene sxtB copy numbers, sxtA, sxtG and sxtS gene presence, and PST concentrations in Polish freshwater lakes. In total, 34 lakes in western Poland were sampled twice during summer 2010. The presence of PST biosynthesis genes sxtA, sxtG and sxtS was determined using conventional qualitative PCR. Quantitative PCR (qPCR) was used to measure sxtB copy numbers, and the samples were analysed for PSTs using ion-pair high performance liquid chromatography with post-column oxidation and fluorescence detection (HPLC-FLD). Cyanobacteria carrying the sxtB gene were present in 23.5% of all samples (n=16) and in 14 lakes of the studied 34. Gene copy numbers ranged from 8.2×104 to 5.1×107 sxtB copies L-1 (mean 3.8×106). The median was 4.5×105 sxtB gene copies L-1 and the majority of results clustered at the lower end of the sxtB qPCR linear range. In 12 out of the 16 samples positive for sxtB the gene co-occurred with the other three targeted PST biosynthesis genes sxtA, sxtG and sxtS. However, five additional samples lacked one or two of the targeted four genes. Thirteen samples contained PSTs, of which 12 samples at levels <0.072 µg L-1, i.e., close to or below the quantitative detection limit of the HPLC-FLD method (0.01 µg L-1). One sample contained 0.57 µg L-1 saxitoxin, co-occurring with all four sxt genes studied. No correlation between PST and sxt gene occurrence or copy numbers was observed. A. gracile and C. raciborskii occurred in 92% and 50% of samples, respectively, containing PSTs, sxt genes or both. In conclusion, the results confirm that potential PST producers constitute an established subpopulation of cyanobacteria in Polish freshwater lakes. However, none of the sxt genes targeted in this study could serve as a reliable marker for active PST biosynthesis.
Metallothionein expression and synthesis in the testis of the lizard Podarcis sicula under natural conditions and following estrogenic exposure
Authors: Verderame Mariailaria , Limatola Ermelinda , Scudiero Rosaria
Published: May 2017

Metallothionein (MT) is the main protein involved in the homeostasis of metallic micronutrients and in cellular defence against heavy metals and reactive oxygen species. Found in almost all vertebrate tissues, MT presence and localization in the testis has been controversial. In the present study, by using in situ hybridization and immunohistochemical analysis we assessed the localization of both MT transcript and protein in Podarcis sicula testes during two different phases of the reproductive cycle: the autumnal resumption and the spring-early summer mating period. In addition, with the same methodological approach, we verified the effect of estradiol-17ÃŸ and nonylphenol, a potent xenoestrogen, on MT expression and synthesis.Â  These results, the first collected in a non-mammalian oviparous vertebrate, demonstrated that the expression profile of MT mRNA and protein changes during the reproductive cycle. In the fall resumption, MT transcripts are absent in spermatogonia and present in all the other cells of tubules, including spermatozoa; vice versa, the MT protein is evident only in spermatozoa and somatic cells. In the mating period, both MT transcripts and proteins are present in spermatogonia, spermatocytes and spermatids, whereas in the spermatozoa only the proteins are detected, thus suggesting that the MTs translated in the earlier germinal stages are stored up to spermatozoa. Results also demonstrated that in lizard testis the expression of MT gene undergoes a cell-specific regulation after estrogenic exposure; the possible role and the mechanism by which this regulation occurs have been discussed.
A Unified Momentum Equation Approach for Computing Flow-Induced Stresses in Structures with Arbitrarily-Shaped Stationary Boundaries
Authors: Yeo Haram , Ki Hyungson
Published: May 2017

This article presents a novel monolithic numerical method for computing flow-induced stresses for problems involving arbitrarily-shaped stationary boundaries. A unified momentum equation for a continuum consisting of both fluids and solids is derived in terms of velocity by hybridizing the momentum equations of incompressible fluids and linear elastic solids. Discontinuities at the interface are smeared over a finite thickness around the interface using the signed distance function, and the resulting momentum equation implicitly takes care of the interfacial conditions without using a body-fitted grid. A finite volume approach is employed to discretize the obtained governing equations on a Cartesian grid. For validation purposes, this method has been applied to three examples, lid-driven cavity flow in a square cavity, lid-driven cavity flow in a circular cavity, and flow over a cylinder, where velocity and stress fields are simultaneously obtained for both fluids and structures. The simulation results agree well with the results found in the literature and the results obtained by COMSOL Multiphysics®.
Going through the Motions: A Time-and- Motion Study of Workload Associated with Nonformulary Medication Orders
Authors: Chang Elaine , Kinkade Angus , Tung Anthony C H , Tejani Aaron M
Published: May 2017

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Health Care and Pharmacy Practice in Jordan
Authors: Nazer Lama H , Tuffaha Haitham
Published: May 2017

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The Pharmacist’s Guide to Antimicrobial Therapy and Stewardship
Authors: So Miranda
Published: May 2017

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We All Have a Story
Authors: Fitch Patrick
Published: May 2017

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Clinico-bacteriological profile of primary pyodermas in Kashmir: A hospital-based study
Authors: Bhat YJ , Hassan I , Bashir S , Farhana A , Maroof P
Published: May 2017

Pyodermas are a common group of infectious dermatological conditions on which few studies have been conducted. This study aimed to characterise the clinical and bacteriological profile of pyodermas, and to determine the prevalence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infection in primary pyodermas in a dermatology outpatient department in Kashmir.

Methods

We conducted a hospital based cross-sectional study in the outpatient Department of Dermatology, Sexually Transmitted Diseases and Leprosy of Shri Maharaja Hari Singh Hospital, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India. Patients presenting with primary pyodermas were included in the study. A detailed history and complete physical and cutaneous examination was carried out along with microbiological testing to find aetiological microorganisms and their respective antimicrobial susceptibility patterns. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing, including that for methicillin resistance, was carried out by standard methods as outlined in the current Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute guidelines.

Results

In total, 110 patients were included; the age of the study population ranged from 3 to 65 years (mean age 28 years); 62% were male. Poor personal hygiene was noted in 76 (69%). Furunculosis (56; 51%) was the most common clinical presentation. Staphylococcus aureus was isolated in 89 (81%) of cases, and MRSA formed 54/89 (61%) of Staphylococcus aureus isolates. All MRSA strains were sensitive to vancomycin.

Conclusion

The prevalence of MRSA was high in this sample of community-acquired primary pyodermas. It is therefore important to monitor the changing trends in bacterial infection and their antimicrobial susceptibility patterns and to formulate a definite antibiotic policy which may be helpful in decreasing the incidence of MRSA infection
The Edinburgh Malawi Cancer Partnership: Helping to establish multidisciplinary cancer care in Blantyre, Malawi
Authors: Brown E , Gorman D , Knowles G , Taylor F , Jere Y , Bates J , Masamba L
Published: May 2017

In response to the growing incidence of cancer in Malawi, a new oncology unit was established at the Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital, Blantyre. The unit opened in 2010, the first in the country, and is led by a single consultant oncologist. In 2012, a healthcare partnership was formed between the oncology and palliative care unit at Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital and the Edinburgh Cancer Centre, UK. The principal objective of the partnership is to help develop high quality multidisciplinary cancer care in Malawi.

Methods

A needs assessment identified three priority areas for further improvement of cancer services: nurse-led treatment delivery; management of clinical data; and multidisciplinary working. The partnership received grant funding from the Scottish Government Malawi Development Programme in 2013 and a three year project plan was implemented. This has been conducted through a series of reciprocal training visits.

Results

Key achievements have been completion of a programme of oncology nursing education attended by 32 oncology nurses and other healthcare professionals, which has resulted in increased experience in cancer practice and standardisation of chemotherapy delivery procedures; development of a clinical database that enables prospective collection of data of all new patients with cancer and which links to the Malawi Cancer Registry; development of weekly multidisciplinary meetings involving oncology, gynaecology and surgery that has enabled a cross-specialty approach to patient care.

Conclusion

The Edinburgh Malawi Cancer Partnership is supporting nursing education, data use and cross-specialty collaboration that we are confident will improve cancer care in Malawi. Future work will focus on the further development of multidisciplinary breast cancer care and the development of a radiotherapy service for patients in Malawi.
Obesity prevention strategies: Could food or soda taxes improve health?
Authors: Encarnação R , Lloyd-Williams F , Bromley H , Capewell S
Published: May 2017

Evidence shows that one of the main causes for rising obesity rates is excessive consumption of sugar, which is due in large part to the high sugar content of most soda and juice drinks and junk foods. Worryingly, UK and global populations are consuming increasing amounts of sugary drinks and junk foods (high in salt, sugar and saturated fats). However, there is raised public awareness, and parents in particular want something to be done to curb the alarming rise in childhood obesity.

Population-wide policies (i.e. taxation, regulation, legislation, reformulation) consistently achieve greater public health gains than interventions and strategies targeted at individuals. Junk food and soda taxes are supported by increasing evidence from empirical and modelling studies. The strongest evidence base is for a tax on sugar sweetened beverages, but in order to effectively reduce consumption, that taxation needs to be at least 20%.

Empirical data from a number of countries which have implemented a duty on sugar or sugary drinks shows rapid, substantial benefits. In the UK, increasing evidence from recent scientific reports consistently support substantial reductions in sugar consumption through comprehensive strategies which include a tax. Furthermore, there is increasing public support for such measures. A sugar sweetened beverages tax will happen in the UK so the question is not ‘If?’ but ‘When?’ this tax will be implemented. And, crucially, which nation will get there first? England, Ireland, Scotland or Wales?
Mary Riddoch (1901–1966), an extraordinary tale of survival
Authors: Riddoch G , Silver JR , Weiner M-F
Published: May 2017

In 1934 Mary Riddoch sustained a traumatic spinal injury as a result of a road traffic accident. Although a few surviving servicemen from the First World War have been recorded, this is the first account of a female paraplegic patient surviving a traumatic spinal injury. Her personal circumstances greatly contributed to her long survival: she was a qualified doctor, she was the sister of George Riddoch the neurologist who treated soldiers who had sustained spinal cord injuries during the First World War, and she was fortunate to have benefited from the dedicated care of nurse Dorothy Fiddes. Her great-nephew, Graeme Riddoch is one of the authors of this paper and his recollections provide a unique perspective to this case report.
Unusual Presentation of Primary Hyperparathyroidism: A Rare Case Report
Authors: Teja Veeramaneni S , Ramakrishnan Ramya
Published: May 2017

Aim

The aim of this case report is to highlight an exceptional presentation of primary hyperparathyroidism.

Background

Asymptomatic maternal hyperparathyroidism manifesting in the neonate as hypocalcemic convulsions is exceedingly rare.

Case report: Primary hyperparathyroidism has got a varied presentations. We present a case report of neonatal hypocalcemic convulsions secondary to asymptomatic maternal hyperparathyroidism. Here, the challenge in diagnosing this condition and management will be discussed in the context of available literature.

Conclusion

In the event of nonfebrile seizures in the neonate due to hypocalcemia, the mother has to be evaluated for primary hyperparathyroidism.

Clinical significance: Physicians’ awareness of this unique manifestation of primary hyperparathyroidism is essential for the appropriate management of both the mother and the neonate.

Timely identification and treatment of this condition will prevent complications in both.

How to cite this article

Teja VS, Ramakrishnan R. Unusual Presentation of Primary Hyperparathyroidism: A Rare Case Report. World J Endoc Surg 2017;9(1):13-15.
Safety of Transvaginal Scan Estimated from Ultrasonic Bioeffects
Authors: Maeda Kazuo
Published: May 2017

The embryo and fetus are generally studied using ultrasound imaging in pregnancy; however, ultrasound wave is absorbed by biological tissues to elevate the temperature. The growing embryonic and fetal tissue tends to be damaged by heating; thus, excess heating that damages young sensitive growing tissue should be prevented in ultrasound diagnosis. Hence, the thermal status of diagnostic ultrasound should be known with thermal index (TI), of which the determination and application are discussed in this chapter. Peculiar problem to transvaginal scan and thermal problem in febrile patient are discussed.

Additionally, the cavitation, which is related with negative pressure, develops high pressure, high temperature, and free radicals that damage embryonic and fetal tissues. Therefore, the mechanical index (MI) has to be determined, measuring negative pressure of ultrasound. The MI is determined for the safety of diagnostic ultrasound.

The ultrasound device output intensity that suppresses fetal amniotic JTC-3 cultured cell growth was determined, where 240 mW/cm2 or less output intensity did not suppress the cell growth, namely, the diagnostic ultrasound has no bioeffect when the output is lower than 240 mW/cm3.

The as low as reasonably achievable principle in the Doppler method of 0.1 TI will be discussed. Three experimental reports of hazardous effects of ultrasound are discussed.

How to cite this article

Maeda K. Safety of Transvaginal Scan Estimated from Ultrasonic Bioeffects. Donald School J Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2017;11(1):1-6.
Tissue Characterization with Gray-level Histogram Width in Obstetrics and Gynecology
Authors: Maeda Kazuo , Kihaile PE , Ito T , Utsu M , Yamamoto N , Serizawa M
Published: May 2017

Aim

Clinical ultrasound tissue characterization, using usual B-mode devices.

Materials and methods

Malignant neoplasia in ovary, uterine cervix, and endometrium; placental intervillous space fibrin deposit; fetal growth restriction; fetal brain, fetal lung immaturity; meconium-stained amniotic fluid and healthy adult liver; Tissue was characterized by gray-level histogram width (GLHW) divided by full gray scale length.

Results

Malignant GLHW was higher than in benign one (it was malignant if the GLHW was 50% or more in ovary, uterine cervix, and endometrium). The GLHW of placental fibrin deposit was higher than normal placenta. It was reduced by heparin and normal neonate was obtained. Fetal brain echo density, immature fetal lung, and meconium-stained amniotic fluid were diagnosed by GLHW, and normal adult liver GLHW was studied. Helsinki declaration was followed.

Conclusion

The GLHW tissue characterization objectively diagnosed ultrasound B-mode image in obstetrics and gynecology; thus, it would also be applied in common adult human cases.

How to cite this article

Maeda K, Kihaile PE, Ito T, Utsu M, Yamamoto N, Serizawa M. Tissue Characterization with Gray-level Histogram Width in Obstetrics and Gynecology. Donald School J Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2017;11(1):7-10.
Optimizing Chest X-ray Indication in Blunt Trauma Patients using Clinical Criteria
Authors: Pivetta Luca GA , Below Cristiano , Rondini Giovanna Z , Perlingero Jacqueline AG , Assef José C , Parreira José G
Published: May 2017

Background

There is an excessive number of unnecessary chest X-rays (CXRs) in minor blunt trauma patients.

Objective

To identify, using routine clinical criteria, a subgroup of blunt trauma patients that do not require CXR for assessment.

Materials and methods

This was a retrospective analysis of trauma registry data collected over a 24-month period. Adult blunt trauma patients undergoing CXR on admission were analyzed. The following clinical criteria were assessed: Normal neurologic examination on admission (NNEx), hemodynamic stability (HS), normal physical examination of the chest on admission (NCEx), age ≤ 60 years, and absence of distracting injuries (Abbreviated Injury Scale >2 in head, abdomen, and extremities). These clinical criteria were progressively merged to select a group with lowest risk of exhibiting abnormal CXR on admission.

Results

Out of 4,647 patients submitted to CXR on admission, 268 (5.7%) had abnormal findings on scans. Of 2,897 patients admitted with NNEx, 116 (4.0%) had abnormal CXR. Of 2,426 patients with NNEx and HS, 74 (3.0%) had abnormal CXR. Of 1,698 patients with NNEx, HS, and NCEx, 24 (1.4%) had abnormal CXR. Of 1,347 patients with NNEx, HS, NCEx, and age < 60 years, 12 had thoracic injury (0.9% of total individuals receiving CXR). A total of 4 patients underwent chest drainage. Among 1,140 cases with all clinical criteria, 8 had confirmed thoracic injuries and 2 underwent chest drainage.

Conclusion

A subgroup of blunt trauma patients with low probability of exhibiting abnormalities on CXR at admission was identified. The need for CXR in this subgroup should be reviewed.

How to cite this article

Pivetta LGA, Parreira JG, Below C, Rondini GZ, Perlingero JAG, Assef JC. Optimizing Chest X-ray Indication in Blunt Trauma Patients using Clinical Criteria. Panam J Trauma Crit Care Emerg Surg 2017;6(1):30-34.
On the link between precipitation and the ice water path over tropical and mid-latitude regimes as derived from satellite observations
Authors: Tubul Yaniv , Koren Ilan , Altaratz Orit , Heiblum Reuven H.
Published: May 2017

Abstract. In this study, we explored the link between clouds’ integrated water content and surface rain rate (RR), focusing on deep convective clouds with iced tops. We used a 3-year (2006–2008) global dataset of cloud properties and precipitation rates retrieved from the MODerate-Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) on Aqua and the Tropical Rain Measuring Mission (TRMM) Multisatellite Precipitation Analysis (TMPA). Previous studies focusing on marine stratocumulus clouds showed a robust link between liquid water path and drizzle rates, in the form of a power law. Consistent with this, we show a quantified link between ice water path (IWP) and surface RR. To reduce the problem to one non-dimensional variable (the power law exponent, β), the IWP and RR were normalized by their local means. We examined the geographical variability of β, and found its mean value to be 1.03 ± 0.13 (1.04 ± 0.12) in the tropics and 1.19 ±  0.19 (1.26 ± 0.20) over the mid-latitudes, during June–August (December–February). The results over the tropical belt showed the best correlation (R2 > 0.9) and lowest standard deviation values, thus the estimations of RR based on IWP measurements for this area are expected to be the most reliable. Such a method offers an estimation of RR using IWP information measured by passive polar-orbiting sensors (such as MODIS). Moreover, it can aid in parameterizing rain properties in regional and global climate models. To enable use of this method, we provide global maps (for June–August) of the required parameters to calculate RR using IWP data.
Examining bias in pollen-based quantitative climate reconstructions
induced by human impact on vegetation
Authors: Ding Wei , Xu Qinghai , Tarasov Pavel E.
Published: May 2017

Abstract. Human impact is a well-known confounder in pollen-based quantitative climate reconstructions as most terrestrial ecosystems have been artificially affected to varying degrees. In this paper, we use a human-induced pollen dataset (H-set) and a corresponding natural pollen dataset (N-set) to establish pollen-climate calibration sets for temperate eastern China (TEC). The two calibration sets, taking a Weighted Averaging Partial Least Squares (WA-PLS) approach, are used to reconstruct past climate variables from a fossil record, which is located at the margin of the East Asian Summer Monsoon in north-central China and covers the late glacial–Holocene from 14.7 ka BP (thousand years before AD 1950). Ordination results suggest that mean annual precipitation (Pann) is the main explanatory variable of both pollen composition and percentage distributions in both datasets. The Pann reconstructions, based on the two calibration sets, demonstrate consistently similar patterns and general trends, suggesting a relatively strong climate impact on the regional vegetation and pollen spectra. However, our results also indicate that human impact may obscure climate signals derived from fossil pollen assemblages. In a test with modern climate and pollen data, the Pann influence on pollen distribution decreases in the H-set while the human influence index (HII) rises. Moreover, the relatively strong human impact reduces woody pollen taxa abundances, particularly in the sub-humid forested areas. Consequently, this shifts their model-inferred Pann optima to the arid-end of the gradient compared to Pann tolerances in the natural dataset, and further produces distinct deviations when the total tree pollen percentages are high in the fossil sequence (i.e. about 40 % for the Gonghai area). In summary, the calibration set with human impact used in our experiment can produce a reliable general pattern of past climate, but the human impact on vegetation affects the pollen-climate relationship and biases the pollen-based climate reconstruction.
History and Relevance of Patronage, the Civil Service Reform and the Pendleton Act: The Rationale for Congressional Intervention
Authors: Knox Robert , Adams Michael O. , Osho Gbolahan S.
Published: May 2017

The ownership of land determined ones importance. However, the church was one of the largest single property holders in Italy. By the 11th century, Bishops were competing with wealthy rural families to become patrons” of local land – owners. To combat the political problems in 1867 The Tenure of Office Act was passed during Andrew Jackson term; Congress passed the Act in an effort to secure a greater role in the appointive process. The act specific that those appointed with the advice and consent of the Senate could only be removed from office with the Senate’s approval. Hence, the goal of this research is to examine the implications of political pressure on the evolutionary process with new emergent paradigm characterized by three anti-government values: personal accountability limited and decentralized government, and community responsibility for delivery or social services.
Iatrogenic asymptomatic subclavian arteriovenous fistula after percutaneous catheterizationcutaneous catheterization
Authors: John Sam Aruputha , Rajab Abdullah , Ali Ahamed Faiz , Kassem Rasha , Atiya Hosam , Khan Aisha S.
Published: May 2017

A 4-year-old child with chronic enteropathy underwent left percutaneous internal jugular vein Hickman catheter insertion for total parenteral nutrition (TPN) under general anaesthesia. Previously this child had undergone percutaneous Hickman line insertion on the right internal jugular vein in 2013 and the right subclavian vein in 2015. These lines had been removed before due to catheter sepsis. During the present procedure, 6.6 french Hickman line was inserted into the left internal jugular vein by percutaneous peel away technique under ultrasound guidance. Later in the ward it was noticed that Hickman line was not functioning and there was reverse flow of blood into the intravenous (IV) line. Blood gas sample taken from the line showed arterial values and the catheter was subsequently removed. Computed tomography (CT) angiography was done which reported arteriovenous (AV) fistula with pseudoaneurysm of the right subclavian vein. The child was then referred to department of cardiothoracic surgery for further management. From the above case report we can infer that patients who underwent repeated percutaneous central line insertions may develop iatrogenic AV fistula or pseudo aneurysm. These complications can be asymptomatic for years. Failure to recognize this may lead to catastrophe during reinsertion. Hence proper history taking, clinical examination for bruit, thrill over the neck veins and cardiac examination should be done preoperatively if there is past history of multiple insertions. Investigations like venous blood gas sampling, USG doppler for neck veins, echocardiography, and CT angiography should be done in these cases preoperatively.
What factors do critical access hospital trustee/board members believe are important to recruitment of physicians and do they differ from hospital administrators and physicians
Authors: Baker Edward Trusdale , Schmitz David , Marshall Jessica , MacKenzie Lisa
Published: May 2017

Background: Rural hospitals continue to struggle to recruit physicians. Examining trustee/board member perceptions of their community’s strengths and challenges related to physician recruitment may provide insight on how to sustain an effective workforce in these facilities.Objective: The purpose of this study is to identify similarities and differences between critical access hospital (CAH) trustee/board members’ perspectives on factors important to physician recruitment compared to their hospital administrators and physicians practicing in their facilities.Methods: The CAH Community Apgar Questionnaire (CAH CAQ) was expanded to include trustee/board member participation in Iowa. Online survey methods were used to compile information from trustees/board members, hospital administrators and physician from participating CAHs recruited by the Iowa Hospital Association.Results: A total of 16 Iowa CAH communities participated in the project in 2015. There were 17 administrators, 39 physicians and 23 board members respondents for a total of 79 respondents. Significant differences were found between trustee/board members and hospital administrators ratings on CAH CAQ factors loan repayment and transfer arrangements. Trustee/board members and physicians showed significant differences on scores for the CAH CAQ class factor hospital/community support and on factor ratings for teaching, administration, hospital sponsored continuing medical education and welcome and recruitment programs.Discussion: This study has identified commonalities and differences in how rural hospital trustee/board members and the administrators and physicians who work at their facilities view community strengths related to physician recruitment. Analyzing and discussing the areas of consensus and differences of opinion could help develop more effective physician recruitment strategies for these communities.
Reviewer Acknowledgements for Modern Applied Science, Vol. 10, No. 10
Authors: Lee Sunny
Published: May 2017

Reviewer Acknowledgements for Modern Applied Science, Vol. 10, No. 10
Reviewer Acknowledgements for Modern Applied Science, Vol. 10, No. 11
Authors: Lee Sunny
Published: May 2017

Reviewer Acknowledgements for Modern Applied Science, Vol. 10, No. 11
Reviewer Acknowledgements for Modern Applied Science, Vol. 10, No. 6
Authors: Lee Sunny
Published: May 2017

Reviewer Acknowledgements for Modern Applied Science, Vol. 10, No. 6
Optimization of Design Scheme for Toll Plaza Based on M/M/C Queuing Theory and Cellular Automata Simulation Algorithm
Authors: Liu Yi-Jian , Cao Jian , Cao Xiao-Yan , Zhang Yuan-Biao
Published: May 2017

As an important field in traffic control science, the research in design of toll plazas has increasingly attracted attention of scholars and society. A good design of toll plaza needs to meet a lot of conditions, such as high safety coefficient, high throughput and low cost level. In this study, we established an evaluation model of toll plaza based on cellular automata and M/M/C queuing theory applying to three aspects: safety coefficient, throughput and cost. Then, we took the Asbury Park Toll Plaza in New Jersey as an example to analyze its performance and further optimized the design of the toll plaza. Compared with the original design, the optimized toll plaza we designed is proved to be safer and preferable. Last but not least, we further analyzed the robustness of the designed toll plaza, proving that the designed toll plaza had a preferable performance in reality.
Potential correlates and outcomes of active commuting to school among adolescents
Authors: Martins João , Sallis James F , Marques Adilson , Diniz José , Carreiro da Costa Francisco
Published: May 2017

The present study analysed the prevalence, potential correlates and physical activity (PA), body mass index (BMI), and academic performance outcomes, of active commuting to and from school (ACS), considering the home-to-school distance. A total of 391 Portuguese adolescents (189 boys, aged 14-18 years) completed a questionnaire about their active and passive commuting behaviours; potential correlates and perceived barriers of ACS; PA, BMI and academic performance. Multinomial regressions analyses were performed for ‘no walk/cycle’, ‘one-way commuters’ and for ‘both-ways commuters’ living near (<2 miles) school. The prevalence of one-way and both-ways active commuters decreased as the distance to school increased to more than two miles (66.5% to 23.5%). For the ‘near group’, walking to (47.8%) and from (55.5%) school was much more common than cycling (< 1%). The barrier with the greatest effect for one-way and both-ways active commuters was ‘distance’, followed by ‘stuff to carry’, ‘don’t enjoy walking/cycling’. No significant relations were found between walking or cycling one-way or both-ways and total PA, BMI and academic performance. To increase ACS, results suggest interventions promoting bicycling use and addressing multiple perceived barriers, such as ‘PA and ACS attitudes’, ‘stuff to carry’, perceptions of ‘hot and sweaty’ and ‘distance’.
Exposition à la violence conjugale : profil des enfants signalés et réponse aux besoins d’aide des familles
Authors: Lavergne Chantal , Hélie Sonia , Malo Claire
Published: May 2017

La présente étude porte sur le profil des enfants exposés à la violence conjugale signalés aux services de protection de la jeunesse du Québec ainsi que sur la réponse aux besoins d’aide des familles. Elle vise à apporter un éclairage nouveau en distinguant l’exposition à la violence conjugale physique et psychologique de même qu’en incluant des formes directes et indirectes de l’exposition à la violence conjugale physique. L’étude repose sur l’utilisation d’un échantillon représentatif des enfants de moins de 18 ans dont le signalement pour maltraitance ou troubles de comportement a été évalué par les intervenants de la DPJ dans les seize centres jeunesse du Québec. Les résultats font ressortir la lourdeur des situations; l’exposition à la violence conjugale se présente le plus souvent en cooccurrence avec d’autres formes de maltraitance de même qu’avec d’autres difficultés de fonctionnement chez les parents. Les enfants exposés sont également plus jeunes. La situation semble particulièrement complexe dans les cas d’exposition à la violence conjugale psychologique. Le fait que la majorité des familles où il y a violence conjugale ne soit pas référée à des services sociaux adaptés à cette problématique est préoccupant. L’intervention auprès de ces familles nécessite que soit pris en compte non seulement les besoins des enfants, mais également ceux reliés à la victimisation des mères et à la violence du conjoint.
Attachement et adaptation psychosociale chez des enfants hébergés en centre jeunesse
Authors: Bisaillon Claud , Bureau Jean-François , Moss Ellen
Published: May 2017

Vingt-sept enfants hébergés par un centre jeunesse de la région de Montréal ont participé avec leur figure d’attachement principale à une étude visant à examiner les liens entre l’attachement, l’adaptation psychosociale et différents facteurs de risque. Le protocole d’évaluation comportait des données sociodémographiques, des mesures de psychopathologie et de dissociation liées à la figure d’attachement principale, l’historique de placements et des services en protection et différentes mesures de problèmes d’adaptation chez l’enfant (problèmes généraux, problèmes intériorisés, problèmes extériorisés, problèmes sociaux et symptômes de dissociation). Les Récits d’attachement (Solomon, George et De Jong, 1995) ont été administrés aux enfants afin d’évaluer leurs représentations d’attachement. Les analyses n’ont pas révélé d’effet principal de l’attachement de l’enfant sur son adaptation, mais un effet modérateur de l’attachement sur le lien entre les facteurs de risque et les problèmes généraux d’adaptation a été démontré. En effet, les problèmes généraux d’adaptation augmentent de pair avec l’élévation du risque contextuel, mais seulement chez les enfants présentant des représentations d’attachement désorganisées. Les résultats de cette étude appuient l’importance de procéder à des évaluations rigoureuses des enfants hébergés par les systèmes de protection afin de documenter leur adaptation psychosociale, leur statut représentationnel d’attachement et leur trajectoire de maltraitance et de placements, en vue de leur offrir des interventions appropriées.
La synergologie, une lecture pseudoscientifique du langage corporel
Authors: Denault Vincent , Larivée Serge , Plouffe Dany , Plusquellec Pierrich
Published: May 2017

L’objectif du présent article est d’évaluer si la synergologie fait partie du domaine de la science ou si elle n’est qu’une pseudoscience du décodage du non-verbal. Le texte comprend cinq parties. Dans la première partie, nous décrivons des éléments importants de la démarche scientifique. Dans les deuxième et troisième parties, nous présentons brièvement la synergologie et nous vérifions si celle-ci respecte les critères de la science. La quatrième partie fait état d’une mise en demeure adressée à Patrick Lagacé et àLa Pressepour une série de textes qui présentait une vision très critique de cette approche. Enfin, l’utilisation d’arguments non pertinents d’un point de vue scientifique, une tentative inappropriée de donner de la crédibilité à la synergologie par une mise en demeure et un recours injustifié à l’argument éthique nous amènent à conclure que la synergologie est une pseudoscience du décodage du non-verbal.
TDAH et interventions scolaires efficaces : fondements et principes d’un programme de consultation individuelle
Authors: Nadeau Marie-France , Normandeau Sylvie , Massé Line
Published: May 2017

L’ampleur des manifestations et des conséquences associées au trouble déficitaire de l’attention avec ou sans hyperactivité (TDAH) à l’école appelle à des interventions favorisant l’adaptation scolaire de l’enfant qui en est atteint. Au-delà de la médication, les interventions prenant place à l’intérieur de la classe sont reconnues pour améliorer le fonctionnement scolaire de l’enfant. Bien que l’enseignant de la classe ordinaire soit privilégié pour intervenir auprès des enfants ayant un TDAH, il rapporte être peu informé à leur sujet et se dit peu enclin à planifier et à mettre en oeuvre de façon cohérente les pratiques probantes pour les aider. Des études relèvent le besoin de mettre en place des moyens favorables au transfert des pratiques probantes à la réalité de la classe ordinaire. Cet article s’inscrit dans une démarche de développement et d’évaluation empirique d’un programme de consultation individuelle (PCI) visant à soutenir l’enseignant dans le processus d’inclusion scolaire des enfants ayant un TDAH au primaire (Nadeau, Normandeau et Massé, 2012). L’objectif du présent article est de décrire le rationnel et les fondements sous-jacents au PCI, en établissant d’abord un bref état des connaissances sur le TDAH et en détaillant la méthodologie et les principes retenus pour élaborer le PCI et guider sa mise en oeuvre. Suivra une réflexion sur les bénéfices et les limites du PCI en vue d’orienter les pistes à envisager pour une inclusion scolaire réussie.
Pregnancy Outcomes from the Branded Glatiramer Acetate Pregnancy Database
Authors: Sandberg-Wollheim Magnhild , Neudorfer Orit , Grinspan Augusto , Weinstock-Guttman Bianca , Haas Judith , Izquierdo Guillermo , Riley Claire , Ross Amy Perrin , Baruch Peleg , Drillman Talya , Coyle Patricia K.
Published: May 2017

Background:

Appropriate counseling and treatment for women with multiple sclerosis (MS) who may become pregnant requires an understanding of the effects of exposure to disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) during pregnancy. Current reports and studies are limited in their usefulness, mostly by small sample size. Branded glatiramer acetate (GA) is a DMT approved for the treatment of relapsing forms of MS. For more than 2 decades, it has been shown to be efficacious and to have a favorable safety profile. The Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd global pharmacovigilance database comprises data from more than 7000 pregnancies, during which women with MS were exposed to treatment with branded GA.

Methods:

We analyzed data from Teva's global pharmacovigilance database. Pregnancy outcomes for patients treated with branded GA were compared with reference rates of abnormal pregnancy outcomes reported in two large registries representing the general population.

Results:

Pregnancies exposed to branded GA were not at higher risk for congenital anomalies than what is expected in the general population.

Conclusions:

These data provide evidence that branded GA exposure during pregnancy seems safe, without teratogenic effect.
TCF7L1 promotes skin tumorigenesis independently of β-catenin through induction of LCN2
Authors: Ku Amy T , Shaver Timothy M , Rao Ajay S , Howard Jeffrey M , Rodriguez Christine N , Miao Qi , Garcia Gloria , Le Diep , Yang Diane , Borowiak Malgorzata , Cohen Daniel N , Chitsazzadeh Vida , Diwan Abdul H , Tsai Kenneth Y , Nguyen Hoang
Published: May 2017

The transcription factor TCF7L1 is an embryonic stem cell signature gene that is upregulated in multiple aggressive cancer types, but its role in skin tumorigenesis has not yet been defined. Here we document TCF7L1 upregulation in skin squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and demonstrate that TCF7L1 overexpression increases tumor incidence, tumor multiplicity, and malignant progression in the chemically induced mouse model of skin SCC. Additionally, we show that downregulation of TCF7L1 and its paralogue TCF7L2 reduces tumor growth in a xenograft model of human skin SCC. Using separation-of-function mutants, we show that TCF7L1 promotes tumor growth, enhances cell migration, and overrides oncogenic RAS-induced senescence independently of its interaction with β-catenin. Through transcriptome profiling and combined gain- and loss-of-function studies, we identified LCN2 as a major downstream effector of TCF7L1 that drives tumor growth. Our findings establish a tumor-promoting role for TCF7L1 in skin and elucidate the mechanisms underlying its tumorigenic capacity.
Regulation of localization and function of the transcriptional co-activator YAP by angiomotin
Authors: Moleirinho Susana , Hoxha Sany , Mandati Vinay , Curtale Graziella , Troutman Scott , Ehmer Ursula , Kissil Joseph L
Published: May 2017

The Hippo-YAP pathway is a central regulator of cell contact inhibition, proliferation and death. There are conflicting reports regarding the role of Angiomotin (Amot) in regulating this pathway. While some studies suggest a YAP-inhibitory function other studies indicate Amot is required for YAP activity. Here, we describe an Amot-dependent complex comprised of Amot, YAP and Merlin. The phosphorylation of Amot at Serine 176 shifts localization of this complex to the plasma membrane, where it associates with the tight-junction proteins Pals1/PATJ and E-cadherin. Conversely, hypophosphorylated Amot shifts localization of the complex to the nucleus, where it facilitates the association of YAP and TEAD, induces transcriptional activation of YAP target genes and promotes YAP-dependent cell proliferation. We propose that phosphorylation of AmotS176 is a critical post-translational modification that suppresses YAP’s ability to promote cell proliferation and tumorigenesis by altering the subcellular localization of an essential YAP co-factor.
CTCF and cohesin regulate chromatin loop stability with distinct dynamics
Authors: Hansen Anders S , Pustova Iryna , Cattoglio Claudia , Tjian Robert , Darzacq Xavier
Published: May 2017

Folding of mammalian genomes into spatial domains is critical for gene regulation. The insulator protein CTCF and cohesin control domain location by folding domains into loop structures, which are widely thought to be stable. Combining genomic and biochemical approaches we show that CTCF and cohesin co-occupy the same sites and physically interact as a biochemically stable complex. However, using single-molecule imaging we find that CTCF binds chromatin much more dynamically than cohesin (~1–2 min vs. ~22 min residence time). Moreover, after unbinding, CTCF quickly rebinds another cognate site unlike cohesin for which the search process is long (~1 min vs. ~33 min). Thus, CTCF and cohesin form a rapidly exchanging 'dynamic complex' rather than a typical stable complex. Since CTCF and cohesin are required for loop domain formation, our results suggest that chromatin loops are dynamic and frequently break and reform throughout the cell cycle.
Effect of the molecular weight of water-soluble chitosan on its fat-/cholesterol-binding capacities and inhibitory activities to pancreatic lipase
Authors: Jin Qiu , Yu Huahua , Wang Xueqin , Li Kecheng , Li Pengcheng
Published: May 2017

Background

Obesity has become a worldwide burden to public health in recent decades. Given that obesity is caused by an imbalance between caloric intake and expenditure, and that dietary fat is the most important energy source of all macronutrients (by providing the most calories), a valuable strategy for obesity treatment and prevention is to block fat absorption via the gastrointestinal pathway. In this study, the fat- and cholesterol-binding capacities and the inhibition of pancreatic lipase by water-soluble chitosan (WSC) with different weight-average molecular weight (Mw) were tested and comparedin vitro, in order to determine the anti-obesity effects of WSC and the influence of its Mw.

Methods

In this study, WSC with different Mw (∼1,000, ∼3,000, ∼5,000, ∼7,000 and ∼9,000 Da) were prepared by oxidative degradation assisted with microwave irradiation. A biopharmaceutical model of the digestive tract was used to determine the fat- and cholesterol-binding capacity of WSC samples. The pancreatic lipase assays were based on p-nitrophenyl derivatives.

Results

The results showed that all of the WSC samples exhibit great fat- and cholesterol-binding capacities. Within the testing range, 1 g of WSC sample could absorb 2–8 g of peanut oil or 50–65 mg of cholesterol, which are both significantly higher than the ability of cellulose to do the same. Meanwhile, all the WSC samples were proven to be able to inhibit pancreatic lipase activity to some extent.

Discussion

Based on the results, we suggest that there is a significant correlation between the binding capacity of WSC and its Mw, as WSC2 (∼3,000 Da) shows the highest fat- and cholesterol-binding capacities (7.08 g g−1and 63.48 mg g−1, respectively), and the binding ability of WSC declines as its Mw increases or decreases from 3,000 Da. We also suggest WSC as an excellent resource in the development of functional foods against obesity for its adsorption, electrostatic binding and entrapment of cholesterol, fat, sterols and triglycerides in the diet.
Interacting motif networks located in hotspots associated with RNA release are conserved in Enterovirus capsids
Authors: Ross Caroline , Knox Caroline , Tastan Bishop Özlem
Published: May 2017

Enteroviruses are responsible for a multitude of human diseases. Expansion of the virus capsid is associated with a cascade of conformational changes that allow the subsequent release of RNA. For the first time, this study presents a comprehensive bioinformatic screen for the prediction of interacting motifs within intraprotomer interfaces and across respective interfaces surrounding the fivefold and twofold axes. The results identify a network of conserved motif residues involved in interactions in enteroviruses that may be critical to capsid stabilisation, providing guidelines towards developing antivirals that interfere with viral expansion during RNA release.