bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Treatment of posterior inferior cerebellar artery aneurysms using flow-diverter stents: A single-center experience
Authors: Oğuz Şükrü , Dinc Hasan
Published: February 2019

Introduction

The effectiveness and reliability of flow-diverter stents, which are commonly used in aneurysms of the anterior circulation, have been demonstrated previously. However, the use of these devices is associated with higher rates of perforator and branch ischemia following the treatment of aneurysms of the posterior circulation.

Methods

This work involved a single-center; retrospective study reviewing eight patients who had aneurysms related to the posterior inferior cerebellar artery (PICA) and who were treated with flow-diverter stents from September 2013 to May 2017.

Results

The mean aneurysm diameter was 7.6 mm (range, 5 to 11 mm). The types of aneurysm included five aneurysms that were saccular, two that were fusiform, and one that was dissecting. All saccular aneurysms in the neck involved the PICA origin, and one dissecting aneurysm was localized in the proximal part of the PICA. Procedural success was 100% (8/8), and there were no ischemic complications. One patient with subarachnoid hemorrhage died because of rebleeding (modified Rankin Scale (mRS), 6). Other than this patient all of the patients’ mRS scores were zero at discharge and at the clinical follow-up period (mean, 2.5 years). All of the aneurysms were completely occluded according to the latest angiographic controls (mean follow-up period of 19.5 months).

Conclusions

Treatment of PICA aneurysms with flow-diverter stents showed positive results with a high rate of technical success and low complication and mortality rates. The use of flow-diverter stents in the treatment of PICA aneurysms should be considered a safe and effective endovascular treatment option.
Extracellular signal-regulated kinases mediate the enhancing effects of inflammatory mediators on resurgent currents in dorsal root ganglion neurons
Authors: Wu Bin , McDermott Jeff S , Krajewski Jeffrey L , Knopp Kelly L , Nisenbaum Eric S , Cummins Theodore R , Tan Zhi-Yong
Published: February 2019

Previously we reported that a group of inflammatory mediators significantly enhanced resurgent currents in dorsal root ganglion neurons. To understand the underlying intracellular signaling mechanism, we investigated the effects of inhibition of extracellular signal-regulated kinases and protein kinase C on the enhancing effects of inflammatory mediators on resurgent currents in rat dorsal root ganglion neurons. We found that the extracellular signal-regulated kinases inhibitor U0126 completely prevented the enhancing effects of the inflammatory mediators on both Tetrodotoxin-sensitive and Tetrodotoxin-resistant resurgent currents in both small and medium dorsal root ganglion neurons. U0126 substantially reduced repetitive firing in small dorsal root ganglion neurons exposed to inflammatory mediators, consistent with prevention of resurgent current amplitude increases. The protein kinase C inhibitor Bisindolylmaleimide I also showed attenuating effects on resurgent currents, although to a lesser extent compared to extracellular signal-regulated kinases inhibition. These results indicate a critical role of extracellular signal-regulated kinases signaling in modulating resurgent currents and membrane excitability in dorsal root ganglion neurons treated with inflammatory mediators. It is also suggested that targeting extracellular signal-regulated kinases-resurgent currents might be a useful strategy to reduce inflammatory pain.
Brooding and provisioning of nestlings by male and female White-eyed Vireos (Vireo griseus)
Authors: Ritchison Gary , Hawkins Jeffrey A , Ritchison Brianna C
Published: February 2019

Most species of songbirds exhibit biparental care, but, for many taxa and species, little is known about the relative contributions of males and females in brooding and provisioning nestlings. Additional studies of the contributions of males and females in brooding and feeding nestlings are needed to better understand the respective roles of males and females as well as the factors that might contribute to interspecific variation in those roles. We examined the roles of adult male and female White-eyed Vireos ( Vireo griseus) in brooding and provisioning nestlings in east-central Kentucky during the 1996 breeding season. Nests were located by monitoring adult behavior and checking likely nest sites. Once eggs hatched, nests were video-recorded to monitor the behavior of adults. Subsequent review of videos revealed that both male and female White-eyed Vireos brooded young and that males provisioned nestlings at higher rates than females. In contrast to males in many other species of songbirds, male White-eyed Vireos assisted in brooding young and provisioned nestlings at higher rates than their mates. One possible explanation for this is that low rates of extra-pair paternity might increase male confidence of their paternity status. Parental care provided by male White-eyed Vireos may also limit energy expenditure by their mates and increase the likelihood of females re-nesting if nests are predated or initiating second nesting attempts if initial attempts are successful.
Evaluation of fiber-optic phase-gradient meta-tips for sensing applications
Authors: Principe M , Consales M , Castaldi G , Galdi V , Cusano A
Published: February 2019

Recently, within the emerging framework of “lab-on-fiber” technologies, we successfully demonstrated the integration of phase-gradient plasmonic metasurfaces on the tip of an optical fiber. The resulting optical-fiber “meta-tips” promise to empower the typical fiber-optics application scenarios (e.g. sensing, telecommunications, imaging, etc.) with the advanced light-manipulation capabilities endowed by metasurfaces. Here, we explore more in detail the possibility to exploit this platform in label-free biological or chemical sensing applications. Specifically, we carry out a parametric study of the surface sensitivity and show that phase-gradient metasurfaces generally outperform their gradient-free counterparts, without imposing additional fabrication complexity. Therefore, the phase gradient can be effectively exploited as an additional degree of freedom in the design of high-sensitivity devices.
Sildenafil for bronchopulmonary dysplasia and pulmonary hypertension: a meta‐analysis
Authors: van der Graaf Marisa , Rojer Leonne Arindah , Helbing Willem Arnold , Reiss Irwin Karl Marcel , Etnel Jonathan Richard Gregory , Bartelds Beatrijs
Published: February 2019

Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is the most common complication in preterm infants and often complicated by pulmonary hypertension (PH), leading to substantial morbidity and mortality. Sildenafil is often used to treat PH and improve symptoms in this condition, even though evidence of safety and effectiveness is scarce. The aim of this study was to perform a systematic review and meta‐analysis about the effectiveness and safety of chronic use of sildenafil in preterm infants with BPD‐associated PH. Data sources were PubMed, EMBASE, and Medline. Studies reporting the effectiveness of sildenafil therapy in BPD‐associated PH in newborns and infants were included. All‐cause mortality, improvement in PH, improvement in respiratory scores, and adverse events were extracted. Five studies were included, yielding a total of 101 patients with 94.2 patient‐years of total follow‐up. The pooled mortality rate was 29.7%/year (95% confidence interval [CI] = 6.8–52.7). Estimated pulmonary arterial pressure improved > 20% in 69.3% (95% CI = 56.8–81.8) of patients within 1–6 months. Respiratory scores improved in 15.0% (95% CI = 0.0–30.4) of patients within 2–7 days. There were no serious adverse events during sildenafil therapy. This systematic review shows that in the treatment of BPD‐associated PH in preterm infants, sildenafil may be associated with improvement in PAP and respiratory scores. However, there is no clear evidence of its effect on mortality rates. Considering BPD as a complex disease with variable expression patterns, these results support the need for a prospective registry and standardized approach.
What influences chronic pain management? A best–worst scaling experiment with final year medical students and general practitioners
Authors: Rankin Linda , Fowler Christopher John , Stålnacke Britt-Marie , Gallego Gisselle
Published: February 2019

Background:

Chronic pain education is an essential determinant for optimal chronic pain management. Given that attitudes and preferences are involved in making treatment decisions, identifying which factors are most influential to final year medical students’ and general practitioners’ (GPs) chronic pain management choices is of importance. This study investigates Swedish and Australian students’ preferences with respect to a chronic pain condition, using a best–worst scaling (BWS) experiment, which is designed to rank alternatives.

Methods:

BWS, a stated-preference method grounded in random utility theory, was used to explore the importance of factors influencing chronic pain management.

Results:

All three cohorts considered the patients’ pain description and previous treatment experience as the most important factors in making treatment decisions, whereas their demographics and voices or facial expressions while describing their pain were considered least important. Factors such as social support, patient preferences and treatment adherence were, however, disregarded by all cohorts in favour of pain assessment factors such as pain ratings, description and history. Swedish medical students and GPs show very high correlation in their choices, although the GPs consider their professional experience as more important compared to the students.

Conclusion:

This study suggests that the relative importance of treatment factors is cemented early and thus underline the critical importance of improving pain curricula during undergraduate medical education.
Using podcasts to deliver pediatric educational content: Development and reach of PediaCast CME
Authors: Patrick Michael D. , Stukus David R. , Nuss Kathryn E.
Published: February 2019

Objective

Pediatricians have used podcasts to communicate with the public since 2006 and medical students since 2008. Previous work has established quality criteria for medical education podcasts and examined the benefit of offering continuing medical education (CME) credit for online activities. This is the first descriptive study to outline the development and reach of a pediatric podcast that targets post-graduate healthcare providers, enhances communication by incorporating quality criteria, and offers free accredited CME to listeners.

Methods

We produced 26 podcast episodes from March 2015 to May 2017. Episodes incorporated quality criteria for medical education podcasts and offered free CME credit. They were published on a website, available for listening on multiple digital platforms and promoted through several social media channels. Data were analyzed for frequency of downloads and geographic location of listeners.

Results

The cumulative total of episode downloads was 91,159 with listeners representing 50 U.S. states and 108 countries. Podcast listenership grew over time. Individual episodes had their largest number of downloads immediately following release, but continued recruiting new listeners longitudinally, suggesting use of the archive as an “on-demand” source of educational content.

Conclusions

Pediatric podcasts that incorporate quality criteria and offer free CME credit can be used to deliver educational content to a large global audience of post-graduate healthcare providers. Since podcast communication is rapidly growing, future work should focus on identifying the professional roles of listeners; exploring listener perceptions of quality, value and satisfaction; and examining podcast impact on knowledge transfer, clinical practice, public policy and health outcomes.
Do Noncoding RNAs Mediate the Efficacy of Energy Psychology?
Authors: Yount Garret , Church Dawson , Rachlin Kenneth , Blickheuser Katharina , Cardonna Ippolito
Published: February 2019

Background

There are over 100 published studies of a therapy called Emotional Freedom Techniques (EFT). This popular form of energy psychology combines elements of established methods like cognitive therapy with acupressure. Our group reported the first evidence of its mechanisms of action at the molecular level, showing that it can influence levels of the stress hormone cortisol.

Objectives

Given recent advances in molecular genomics that have identified noncoding ribonucleic acid (RNA) molecules as important regulators of gene expression, the aim of this study is to explore the possibility that microRNAs play a role in mediating the effects of EFT.

Methods

We measured microRNA levels in stored blood samples from our previous study in which veterans were randomized into an EFT group receiving EFT and treatment as usual throughout a 10-week intervention period, and a control group receiving only treatment as usual during the intervention period and then receiving EFT. A broad panel of 800 microRNAs was probed using a multiplexed, direct hybridization, and detection system.

Results

All of the microRNA targets were expressed at low levels and most were below thresholds established by negative control probes. Baseline variability was determined using samples collected from the control group at the start and end of the intervention period, and used to filter out targets that were too noisy under control conditions to be able to distinguish a response to treatment. Analysis of the remaining viable targets found a general trend of reduced expression following EFT, compared to expression levels in samples from the control group during the intervention period. The most notable decreases in expression levels were found for 2 microRNAs: let-7b and let-7c, although no significance was found after adjusting for multiple comparisons.

Conclusions

These preliminary data support the feasibility of measuring microRNA expression level changes that correlate with effective EFT therapy.
Diagnosis of periprosthetic joint bacterial infections by culture of sonication fluid from infected implants
Authors: Kim Hee-June , Kim Shukho , Mun Jong-Uk , Bae Ki-Cheor , Kim Jungmin , Kyung Hee-Soo
Published: February 2019

Purpose:

This study compared the results of a culture method using sonication with those yielded by the conventional culture method, for patients with infected total knee arthroplasty (TKA). We also evaluated the usefulness of sonication for the identification of pathogens in infected TKA cases.

Methods:

Isolates were cultured from 13 implants that had been removed from 13 patients with infected TKA. Preoperative culture was performed on aspirated joint fluid, and during the operation, infected tissue was collected for culture. The removed prosthetic implants were cultured before and after sonication. Next, we identified the cultured bacteria using API biochemical kits and 16 S rRNA sequencing.

Results:

The cultures from preoperative joint fluid and intraoperative tissue were positive in 9 of 13 cases (69.2%). For the removed implants, 10 cases were positive before sonication. After sonication, 12 cases (92.3%) had positive cultures. The pathogen most commonly isolated from the cultures was Staphylococcus aureus.

Conclusions:

This study found that a culturing workflow incorporating sonication diagnosed pathogens in patients with infected TKA with higher sensitivity than did the conventional culturing method.
Concurrent JAK2-Positive Myeloproliferative Disorder and Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia: A Novel Entity? A Case Report With Review of the Literature
Authors: Bader Gilbert , Dreiling Bernard
Published: February 2019

JAK2 V617F mutation and BCR-ABL translocation have been considered to be mutually exclusive. However, many cases where both hits coexisted have been reported. We have personally managed a case too. We believe this hybrid entity is underdiagnosed. Thus, we decided to shed light on this “double hit” disease to improve its diagnosis and optimize its treatment. We reviewed the English literature in PubMed since JAK2 discovery. We found 33 cases reported so far. We summarized patient characteristics and analyzed possible interactions between JAK2 and BCR-ABL clones.
Ontogeny of platelet function
Authors: Margraf Andreas , Nussbaum Claudia , Sperandio Markus
Published: February 2019

Although the hemostatic potential of adult platelets has been investigated extensively, regulation of platelet function during fetal life is less clear. Recent studies have provided increasing evidence for a developmental control of platelet function during fetal ontogeny. Fetal platelets feature distinct differences in reactive properties compared with adults. These differences very likely reflect a modified hemostatic and homeostatic environment in which platelet hyporeactivity contributes to prevent pathological clot formation on the one hand but still ensures sufficient hemostasis on the other hand. In this review, recent findings on the ontogeny of platelet function and reactivity are summarized, and implications for clinical practice are critically discussed. This includes current platelet-transfusion practice and its potential risk in premature infants and neonates.
The impact of the graft-versus-leukemia effect on survival in acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Yeshurun Moshe , Weisdorf Daniel , Rowe Jacob M. , Tallman Martin S. , Zhang Mei-Jie , Wang Hai-Lin , Saber Wael , de Lima Marcos , Sandmaier Brenda M. , Uy Geoffrey , Kamble Rammurti T. , Cairo Mitchell S. , Cooper Brenda W. , Cahn Jean-Yves , Ganguly Siddhartha , Camitta Bruce , Verdonck Leo F. , Dandoy Christopher , Diaz Miguel Angel , Savani Bipin N. , George Biju , Liesveld Jane , McGuirk Joseph , Byrne Michael , Grunwald Michael R. , Drobyski William R. , Pulsipher Michael A. , Abdel-Azim Hisham , Prestidge Tim , Wieduwilt Matthew J. , Martino Rodrigo , Norkin Maxim , Beitinjaneh Amer , Seo Sachiko , Nishihori Taiga , Wirk Baldeep , Frangoul Haydar , Bashey Asad , Mori Shahram , Marks David I. , Bachanova Veronika
Published: February 2019

Allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplant is a potential curative therapy for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Delineating the graft-versus-leukemia (GVL) effect as a function of graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) offers the potential to improve survival. We examined 5215 transplant recipients with ALL reported to the Center for International Blood and Marrow Transplant Research registry. Overall survival (OS) was compared according to the presence and severity of GVHD and evaluated in 3 cohorts: 2593 adults in first or second complete remission (CR1/CR2), 1619 pediatric patients in CR1/CR2, and 1003 patients with advanced (CR ≥3 or active disease) ALL. For patients in CR1/CR2, development of acute GVHD (aGVHD) or chronic GVHD (cGVHD) was associated with lower risk of relapse than no GVHD (hazard ratio [HR], 0.49-0.69). Patients with advanced ALL developing grades III and IV aGVHD or cGVHD were also at lower risk of relapse (HRs varied from 0.52 to 0.67). Importantly, adult and children in CR1/CR2 with grades I and II aGVHD without cGVHD experienced the best OS compared with no GVHD (reduction of mortality with HR, 0.83-0.76). Increased nonrelapse mortality accompanied grades III and IV aGVHD (HRs varied from 2.69 to 3.91) in all 3 cohorts and abrogated any protection from relapse, resulting in inferior OS. Patients with advanced ALL had better OS (reduction in mortality; HR, 0.69-0.73) when they developed cGVHD with or without grades I and II aGVHD. In conclusion, GVHD was associated with an increased GVL effect in ALL. GVL exerted a net beneficial effect on OS only if associated with low-grade aGVHD in CR1/CR2 or with cGVHD in advanced ALL.
Inhibition of contact-mediated activation of factor XI protects baboons against S aureus–induced organ damage and death
Authors: Silasi Robert , Keshari Ravi Shankar , Lupu Cristina , Van Rensburg Walter Janse , Chaaban Hala , Regmi Girija , Shamanaev Aleksandr , Shatzel Joseph J. , Puy Cristina , Lorentz Christina U. , Tucker Erik I. , Gailani David , Gruber András , McCarty Owen J. T. , Lupu Florea
Published: February 2019

Staphylococcus aureus infections can produce systemic bacteremia and inflammation in humans, which may progress to severe sepsis or septic shock, even with appropriate antibiotic treatment. Sepsis may be associated with disseminated intravascular coagulation and consumptive coagulopathy. In some types of mouse infection models, the plasma coagulation protein factor XI (FXI) contributes to the pathogenesis of sepsis. We hypothesize that FXI also contributes to the pathogenesis of sepsis in primates, and that pharmacological interference with FXI will alter the outcome of Staphylococcus aureus–induced lethality in a baboon model. Pretreatment of baboons with the anti-FXI antibody 3G3, a humanized variant of the murine monoclonal 14E11 that blocks FXI activation by FXIIa, substantially reduced the activation of coagulation, as reflected by clotting times and plasma complexes of coagulation proteases (FXIIa, FXIa, FIXa, FXa, FVIIa, and thrombin) with serpins (antithrombin or C1 inhibitor) following infusion of heat-inactivated S aureus. 3G3 treatment reduced fibrinogen and platelet consumption, fibrin deposition in tissues, neutrophil activation and accumulation in tissues, cytokine production, kininogen cleavage, cell death, and complement activation. Overall, 3G3 infusion protected the structure and function of multiple vital organs, including lung, heart, liver, and kidney. All treated animals reached the end point survival (7 days), whereas all nontreated animals developed terminal organ failure within 28 hours. We conclude that FXI plays a role in the pathogenesis of S aureus–induced disseminated intravascular coagulation and lethality in baboons. The results provide proof of concept for future therapeutic interventions that may prevent sepsis-induced organ failure and save lives in certain forms of sepsis.
Evolution of plastid genomes of Holcoglossum (Orchidaceae) with recent radiation
Authors: Li Zhang-Hai , Ma Xiao , Wang De-Yi , Li Yun-Xia , Wang Cheng-Wang , Jin Xiao-Hua
Published: February 2019

Background

The plastid is a semiautonomous organelle with its own genome. Plastid genomes have been widely used as models for studying phylogeny, speciation and adaptive evolution. However, most studies focus on comparisons of plastid genome evolution at high taxonomic levels, and comparative studies of the process of plastome evolution at the infrageneric or intraspecific level remain elusive.Holcoglossumis a small genus of Orchidaceae, consisting of approximately 20 species of recent radiation.This made it an ideal group to explore the plastome mutation mode at the infrageneric or intraspecific level.

Results

In this paper, we reported 15 complete plastid genomes from 12 species ofHolcoglossumand 1 species ofVanda.The plastid genomes ofHolcoglossumhave a total length range between 145 kb and 148 kb, encoding a set of 102 genes. The whole set ofndh-gene families inHolcoglossumhave been truncated or pseudogenized. Hairpin inversion in the coding region of the plastid geneycf2has been found.

Conclusions

Using a comprehensive comparative plastome analysis, we found that all the indels between different individuals of the same species resulted from the copy number variation of the short repeat sequence, which may be caused by replication slippage. Annotation of tandem repeats shows that the variation introduced by tandem repeats is widespread in plastid genomes. The hairpin inversion found in the plastid geneycf2occurred randomly in the Orchidaceae.
Therapeutic effect of palbociclib in chondrosarcoma: implication of cyclin-dependent kinase 4 as a potential target
Authors: Ouyang Zhengxiao , Wang Sisi , Zeng Ming , Li Zhihong , Zhang Qing , Wang Wanchun , Liu Tang
Published: February 2019

Background

Chondrosarcoma is a malignant cartilaginous neoplasm of the bone which resistant to radiation therapy and chemotherapy. Cyclin-dependent kinase 4 (CKD4) is highly expressed in human cancer, and palbociclib, the inhibitor of CDK4 has been used clinically under FDA approval for application in cancer therapeutic remedies. However, the level of CDK4 and the treatment possibility in chondrosarcoma require further exploration. Thus, we aim to investigate the level of CDK4 and accompanying therapeutic effects of palbociclib in chondrosarcoma.

Methods

We used immunohistochemistric analysis to evaluate human CDK4 productions in chondrosarcoma tissues. The inhibitory expression of CDK4 by siRNA or palbociclib on cell proliferation, invasion, migration, apoptosis and cycle arrest of chondrosarcoma were determined by MTT, wound healing, transwell and flow cytometry. CDK4/Rb signaling pathway were determined by western blot and Immunofluorescence assay. The inhibition effect of palbociclib on tumor growth within the bone were determined by bioluminescence imaging in vivo.

Results

CDK4 was found to express significantly in human chondrosarcoma samples. The enhanced levels of CDK4 were interlinked with malignant metastasis and undesirable prognosis of chondrosarcoma patients. CDK4 was also highly expressed in human chondrosarcoma cell lines and its inhibition by specific siRNA and palbociclib lead to a decrease in cell proliferation, accompanied by the phosphorylation of Rb. Furthermore, palbociclib also induced cell cycle arrest in G1 phase and decreased cell migration and invasion via CDK4/Rb signaling pathway. Administration of palbociclib in vivo could reduce tumor burden in chondrosarcoma.

Conclusions

In summary, these data highlight CDK4 inhibitors, such as palbociclib, as potential promising therapeutics in the treatment of human chondrosarcoma.
Developing a systematic approach to determine the sequence of impressions of Japanese woodblock prints: the case of Hokusai’s ‘Red Fuji’
Authors: Korenberg Capucine F. , Pereira-Pardo Lucia , McElhinney Peter J. , Dyer Joanne
Published: February 2019

Ukiyo-e Japanese woodblock prints were mass-produced in the Edo Period and early impressions of a given print are generally of higher quality and more sought after by connoisseurs than late impressions. The present publication presents an innovative approach that combines the classical method of examining line quality with a systematic study of colourants. This approach was used to compare an impression of Hokusai’s iconic ‘Red Fuji’ with its rare variant, ‘Pink Fuji’. Woodblock wear and printing effects were studied using high resolution photographs and the colourants were characterised using non-destructive methods. Signs of greater woodblock wear were identified in ‘Red Fuji’ compared to ‘Pink Fuji’ and there were indications that much more thought had been given to the selection and application of the colourants in ‘Pink Fuji’. This showed that ‘Pink Fuji’ was printed before ‘Red Fuji’ and is possibly a first edition. The approach developed here represents a novel way of studying Japanese woodblock prints and can be used to determine the sequence of impressions of other prints.
Correction to: Incidence, mortality, and temporal patterns of oropharyngeal cancer in China: a population‐based study
Authors: Liu Jie , Yang Xu‐li , Zhang Si‐Wei , Zhu Li‐Ping , Chen Wan‐Qing
Published: February 2019

In the original publication of this article [1], the number of death cases in ‘Materials and methods’ section is incorrect.
Antibiofilm activity of epoxy sealer incorporated with quaternary ammonium macromolecule
Authors: Becker Tal , Sterer Nir , Greenstein Ronit Bar-Ness , Toledano Tamar , Solomonov Michael
Published: February 2019

Background

A common reason for failure of root canal treatment is residual bacterial biofilm or reinfection due to coronal seal inadequacy. Recently, the idea of using macromolecules with antibacterial features has evolved. The addition of nanoparticle macromolecules to sealers gained antibiofilm properties as shown in several in vitro studies. Nevertheless, no technique has yet been able to completely eliminate the residual biofilm. We evaluated the in vitro antibacterial effect of epoxy sealer, BJM ROOT CANAL SEALER® (BJM Laboratories Ltd., Or-Yehuda, Israel), incorporated with non-nanoparticle quaternary ammonium macromolecule (BIOSAFE HM4100, Pittsburg, PA, USA) against existing biofilm of Enterococcus faecalis and its ability to inhibit it de-novo.

Methods

Six mm diameter discs of epoxy sealer (BJM) incorporated with various concentrations of immobilized ammonium particles (0, 0.4, 0.8, 1.6, and 3.3% w/v) were tested for its antibacterial effect on de-novo biofilm formation (by Biofilm Formation assay), and on existing biofilm (by Biofilm Viability assay). The Live/Dead bacterial ratio was determined using fluorescence microscopy.

Results

Biofilm formation assay showed significant reductions in de-novo biofilm formation of 25 and 72% in the higher ammonium particle concentrations of 1.6 and 3.3% w/v respectively (p < 0.001 for both). Biofilm viability assay showed significant reductions in existing biofilm viability of 20 and 36% in the higher ammonium particle concentrations of 1.6 and 3.3% w/v respectively (p < 0.001 for both).

Conclusions

Biosafe incorporated in epoxy root canal sealer discs showed a pronounced reduction of de-novo biofilm formation in the higher concentrations (1.6 and 3.3% w/v), as well as some antibacterial effect against existing biofilm of E. faecalis. This sealer may be effective for prevention of de-novo formation of bacterial biofilm in treated root canals.
Closing the Achievement Gap in a Large Introductory Course by Balancing Reduced In-Person Contact with Increased Course Structure
Authors: Gavassa Sat , Benabentos Rocio , Kravec Marcy , Collins Timothy , Eddy Sarah
Published: February 2019

Hybrid and online courses are gaining attention as alternatives to traditional face-to-face classes. In addition to the pedagogical flexibility afforded by alternative formats, these courses also appeal to campuses aiming to maximize classroom space. The literature, however, reports conflicting results regarding the effect of hybrid and online courses on student learning. We designed, taught, and assessed a fully online course (100% online) and a hybrid-and-flipped course (50% online 50% face-to-face) and compared those formats with a lecture-based face-to-face course. The three formats also varied in the degree of structure; the hybrid course was the most structured and the face-to-face course was the least structured. All three courses were taught by the same instructor in a large Hispanic-serving research university. We found that exam scores for all students were lowest in the face-to-face course. Hispanic and Black students had higher scores in the hybrid format compared with online and face-to-face, while white students had the highest performance in the online format. We conclude that a hybrid course format with high structure can improve exam performance for traditionally underrepresented students, closing the achievement gap even while in-person contact hours are reduced.
Functional Abdominal Pain in a Pediatric Patient After Resolution of Acute Pancreatitis: A Case Report
Authors: Rappold Tommy , Suleman M-Irfan
Published: February 2019

Children with acute pancreatitis may develop chronic abdominal wall pain after resolution of clinical, laboratory, and radiographic signs of disease. We describe a 13-year-old boy who underwent an unrevealing, complex diagnostic evaluation for persistent abdominal pain after resolution of acute pancreatitis. His pain required an extended leave of absence from school and nasogastric tube feeds. After receiving abdominal nerve blocks and trigger point injections, he experienced near-complete resolution of pain with normalization of eating habits and daily function. Pain practitioners should think critically about the signs and symptoms of visceral versus somatic pain and try newer diagnostic interventions that may be therapeutic.
Not All Oxygrams Are Mirror Image of Capnograms: A Case Report
Authors: Dubey Prakash K. , Dubey Preksha
Published: February 2019

Generally the oxygram and the capnogram are mirror images of each other. We report a situation where a leak in the sample line produced a typical tails-up capnogram that was not accompanied by a mirror image oxygram. Air entrainment through the breach led to dilution of the gases on their way to the analyzer. The result was an oxygram resembling a series of mountain peaks.
The OxyTain Algorithm: An Approach to Airway Management in the Cannot Intubate and Cannot Oxygenate Scenario
Authors: Schechtman Samuel A. , Buist Michael , Cloyd Benjamin H. , Tremper Kevin K. , Healy David W.
Published: February 2019

Although rare, cannot intubate and cannot oxygenate situations are challenging acute events. The development of management algorithms, standardized equipment provisions, and appropriate clinical training in the application of front-of-neck access techniques are necessary to optimize procedural success to ensure adequate oxygenation. The OxyTain algorithm is an institutionally developed protocol to manage cannot intubate and cannot oxygenate events. With proper implementation, this unique process aligning the cannula cricothyroidotomy and scalpel bougie as primary and secondary techniques, respectively, can potentially optimize procedural success. This algorithmic approach is trained routinely among our anesthesia providers, while the equipment is standardized throughout our anesthetizing locations.
Identification of Obsidian Sources on Milos, Greece
Authors: Sterba Johannes H , Eder Fabienne , Bichler Max
Published: February 2019

Obsidian, a natural volcanic glass, was used extensively in ancient times because of its quality as a raw material for sharp blades. As such, obsidian is of high interest for provenancing studies, since reliable provenancing can provide information about trade routes, extension of territory, long-distance contacts and the mobility of prehistoric peoples. In general, well-established databases of the characteristic elemental composition, the chemical fingerprint, are needed for reliable provenancing. On Milos Island, two sources of raw obsidian, namely Agia Nychia (Cape Bombarda) and Demenegakion are known. Recent literature claims a third source close to Agios Ioannis. In a sampling expedition with the goal to complete the Atominstitut’s database on the chemical fingerprints of obsidian, samples at Agios Ioannis were collected to include this new source.  At the location, 16 scattered samples were taken for analysis, even though no direct outcrop could be identified. On the nearby island Kimolos, several more samples were found. Using instrumental neutron activation analysis (INAA), the chemical fingerprint of the samples was measured and compared to the values in the database. All samples from Agios Ioannis were identified as either from Demenegakion or Agia Nychia, indicating that no further source of obsidian exists at the location.
Petrology and Provenance of Lithic Raw Materials used to knap stone: A Case Study From the Inner Ionian Sea
Authors: Magganas Andreas , Galanidou Nena , Chatzimpaloglou Petros , Kati Marianna , Iliopoulos Giorgos , Katerinopoulos Athanassios
Published: February 2019

This paper examines the lithology and raw material provenance of knapped stone artifacts recovered from prehistoric sites on Meganisi in the course of the Inner Ionian Sea Archipelago survey. Research was twofold: in the field to map the geology of the island and collect raw material samples, and in the laboratory to conduct a petrological study using LM, XRD, SEM and ICP-MS techniques. The greater part of the materials used to produce stone tools consists of almost pure SiO2, bedded or nodular cherts mainly of Malm–Turonian and Eocene ages. The cherts were collected by prehistoric knappers from local sources. Patinas present on the artifacts are relatively enriched in calcite material of incomplete silica diagenesis and subsequently a product of late weathering and alteration.
Analysis of financial and economic activities of commercial organizations
Authors: Кобелева Инна , Kobeleva Inna , Ивашина Наталья , Ivashina Natal'ya
Published: February 2019

The discipline "Analysis of financial and economic activity of commercial organizations" is designed to form students ' theoretical knowledge of the principles and methods of analysis of economic activity
commercial organizations for the purpose of information support of optimal management decisions and increase of efficiency
activity of enterprise. The second edition reflects the changes in the analysis of the financial activities of the organization in accordance with the changes
forms of financial statements (Order of the Ministry of Finance of July 2, 2010 № 66n
"On forms of accounting, ed. by G. 17.05.2015), included sections
to assess the quality, competitiveness of products and investment
analysis.
The tutorial includes: a course of lectures, questions for self-examination; workshop, which contains tests, examples of problem solving and tasks
for independent decision; list of recommended literature; Glossary.
The paper reveals the theoretical foundations of the analysis of economic activity as a system of generalized knowledge about the subject, method, tasks, methodology
and the organization of a comprehensive analysis of the results of economic activity
methods of financial analysis of the enterprise.
The textbook is intended for students of 38.03.01 "Economics" and 38.03.02 "Management".
Point‐of‐Care Ultrasound for Hospitalists: A Position Statement of the Society of Hospital Medicine
Authors: Soni Nilam J. , Schnobrich Daniel , Mathews Benji K. , Tierney David M. , Jensen Trevor P. , Dancel Ria , Cho Joel , Dversdal Renee K. , Mints Gregory , Bhagra Anjali , Reierson Kreegan , Kurian Linda M. , Liu Gigi Y , Candotti Carolina , Boesch Brandon , LoPresti Charles M. , Lenchus Joshua , Wong Tanping , Johnson Gordon , Maw Anna M. , Franco‐Sadud Ricardo , Lucas Brian P.
Published: February 2019

Many hospitalists incorporate point‐of‐care ultrasound (POCUS) into their daily practice to answer specific diagnostic questions or to guide performance of invasive bedside procedures. However, standards for hospitalists in POCUS training and assessment are not yet established. Most internal medicine residency training programs, the major pipeline for incoming hospitalists, have only recently begun to incorporate POCUS in their curricula. The purpose of this document is to inform a broad audience on what POCUS is and how hospitalists are using it. This document is intended to provide guidance for the hospitalists who use POCUS and administrators who oversee its use. We discuss POCUS 1) applications, 2) training, 3) assessments, and 4) program management. Practicing hospitalists must continue to collaborate with their local credentialing bodies to outline requirements for POCUS use. Hospitalists should be integrally involved in decision‐making processes surrounding POCUS program management.
Are you IDDSI ready?
Authors: Boaden Elizabeth , Lightbody Elizabeth , Watkins Caroline
Published: February 2019

The International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative (IDDSI) global framework was launched in November 2015. It was subsequently adopted by the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists and the British Dietetic Association, following expert review and professional membership consultation. In the UK, NHS England established an IDDSI External Reference Group, comprising stakeholders including professional, catering, industry and manufacturing representatives. The IDDSI External Reference Group have endorsed an Aware, Prepare, Adopt model of implementation, and all manufacturers and all healthcare settings are expected to be fully IDDSI compliant by April 2019. This requires whole system change, with a comprehensive training programme. Those providing and delivering food and drink to individuals with swallowing difficulties need to familiarise themselves with food and drink consistencies, and their testing methods. Resources are available to assist local healthcare institutions with implementation of the framework (at: www.rcslt.org / www.bda.org / www.iddsi.org ).
Mother care
Authors: Russell Meredith Jones
Published: February 2019

How doulas are providing valuable support to women in Bradford. By Meredith Jones Russell
We've explored…: art
Authors: Rawstrone Annette
Published: February 2019

One setting took children's artwork to another level by exhibiting it at a major gallery, discovers Annette Rawstrone
Balancing Acts
Authors: O’Connor Anne , Dickinson Kath
Published: February 2019

Development of the vestibular sense – and addressing over- and under-sensitivity – is explored by Anne O’Connor and Dr Kath Dickinson in part two of this new series
Master key
Authors: Goddard Charlotte
Published: February 2019

Because the key person is linked to attachment, it is a vital role for practitioners to understand and to be well-trained on. Charlotte Goddard explores the options
Environmental methods used by veterinary centres to reduce stress of cats and dogs during practice visits
Authors: Williams Taylor , Carroll Aisling , Montrose V. Tamara
Published: February 2019

Background:

The veterinary practice can be a stressful environment for pets. The stress animals experience when visiting the practice can impact on health, welfare and the likelihood of owners regularly visiting the practice. A number of different approaches have been suggested to be beneficial in reducing stress at the veterinary practice however the methods that practices use to try and reduce stress in animals during veterinary visits, and the reasons for the use of these approaches, has not been determined.

Aim:

The aim of this study was to determine what methods veterinary practices in the UK use to try to reduce stress in animals during veterinary visits, and gather the views of veterinary staff on the efficacy of these practices.

Method:

Veterinary practices in the UK (n=45) completed an online mixed methods questionnaire providing information on the practice's use of separate waiting rooms, treat feeding, rehearsal visits, correct handling of animals, appeasing pheromones and sensory enrichment. The reasons why these approaches were or were not used, and the participants' views on whether these practices reduced stress during veterinary visits were also determined.

Results:

The majority of practices surveyed fed treats to animals during veterinary visits, offered rehearsal visits to animals and their owners, used appeasing pheromones in the practice and stated that they used correct handling techniques for different species during consultations. In addition, the majority of practices surveyed did not have more than one waiting room or use a television or auditory device to try and reduce stress in animals during veterinary visits. The majority of participants believed that separate waiting rooms, rehearsal visits, treat feeding, appeasing pheromones, sensory enrichment and correct handling can reduce stress in animals during veterinary visits.

Conclusion:

A range of methods are used by veterinary practices within the UK to attempt to reduce stress in animals during veterinary visits. Greater consideration of methods to facilitate separation of species where distinct waiting rooms are not feasible, for example via implementing appointments for cats and dogs on different days and times, would be beneficial. In addition, veterinary staff should consider utilising classical or specially designed species-specific music in the veterinary practice as this may help mitigate the stress of cats and dogs visiting the practice.
Reviews
Authors: Adler Susan A. , Chen Sicong , Sears Alan
Published: February 2019

CIVICS AND CITIZENSHIP EDUCATION IN AUSTRALIA, ANDREW PETERSON AND LIBBY TUDBALL (EDS) (2017) London, Oxford, New York, New Delhi, Sydney: Bloomsbury Academic, 281 pp., ISBN 9781474248198, hb, $148 USD.

International Mobility and Educational Desire: Chinese Foreign Talent Students in Singapore, PEIDONG YANG (2016) New York: Palgrave Macmillan, xiii+136 pp., ISBN 978-1-13759-142-5, h/bk, £37.99

Anxious Politics: Democratic Citizenship in a Threatenin g World, BETHANY ALBERTSON AND SHANA KUSHNER GADARIAN (EDS) (2015) New York: Cambridge University Press, 247 pp., ISBN-13: 978-1-31641-665-5, p/bk, CAD$35.95
Cities of Saviors
Authors: Vernyik Zénó
Published: February 2019

Cities of Saviors is a short study of the urban spaces of E. E. Cummings’ poetry and Peter Ackroyd’s seminal novel, Hawksmoor. Although at first sight a comparison of these two authors might seem surprising, the analysis offered by this new book shows that such a reading can be revelatory for the understanding of both authors. Relying on close readings informed by the spatial theories of Mircea Eliade, Michel Foucault and Gaston Bachelard, it sheds light on a common understanding of space: one that is immersed in a dark sacrality. By doing so, it also radically reinterprets the oeuvre of both authors, in that it positions Cummings away from the accepted image of the neo-Romantic poet of transcendence and situates Ackroyd in the continuing tradition of (late) Modernism
THE INFLUENCE OF SPRAWL DEVELOPMENT, INCOME, AND INFRASTRUCTURE ON ENERGY CONSUMPTION IN CENTRAL JAVA PROVINCE, INDONESIA
Authors: Buchori Imam , Pramitasari Angrenggani , Sugiri Agung , Sejati Anang Wahyu , Maryono Maryono , Basuki Yudi
Published: February 2019

Energy consumption is influenced by many factors. Sprawl development is often alleged as one of its driving factors. Other factors like the increase of community welfare and the improvement of regional infrastructures are often indicated to trigger energy consumption. This study is aimed at investigating the influence of sprawl development and other relevant factors on the energy consumption in Central Java Province, Indonesia. Other variables denoted to influence energy consumption used in this study are road density, people’s income represented by local Gross Domestic Product (GDP) per capita, and GDP growth rate. The observed energy is limited on vehicle fuels. After investigating the significance of correlations among variables, a multiple regression model is employed. By eliminating GDP per capita because of its multicollinearity with other dependent variables, the developed formula shows that fuel consumption is generated by 47.842 of sprawling index, added by 17.216 of road ratio and 17.5 of GDP growth rata, and reduced by a constant of 26.180. These measurements are expected to be useful for urban and regional managers in developing their region, especially in estimating the fuels’ consumption considering the determined regional policies.
REMOTE SENSING AND GIS FOR LAND COVER CLASSIFICATION AND CHANGE DETECTION IN GAZIPUR SADAR, BANGLADESH DURING 1973-2017
Authors: Hassan Md Arafat , Islam Rakibul , Mahjabin Rehnuma
Published: February 2019

This paper has been developed to capture the land coverage change in Gazipur Sadar Upazila with the help of remote sensing data of 44 years from 1973 to 2017. After acquiring the study area image of 1973, 1991, 2006 and 2017 supervised classification method has been used to get the accurate information from the satellite image and the whole outcome has been transformed into measurable unit (sq km) and graphs. The accuracy of land coverage was ranged from 85% to 89%. The outcome says that the acceleration of economic growth and pressure of huge population took a heavy toll on the vegetation coverage which decreased -199.7%. People are destroying vegetation coverage for building up settlements and infrastructure. In the year 2017, the map shows that the built-up area increased 312.9% for industry, settlement and agricultural purpose. Moreover agricultural land also drops down from 42% to 32%.  The rapid rate of decreasing vegetation coverage and small amount of existing vegetation coverage only 57 sq km (in 2017) is a red alert for the region. The Sal forest and other special flora species of that region is valuable resource for environment. This paper shed light on the fact that it is urgent to protect vegetation coverage so it will help the authority to make good policies and use other techniques to save vegetation coverage.