bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Simulating Stable Isotope Ratios in Plumes of Groundwater Pollutants with BIOSCREEN‐AT‐ISO
Authors: Höhener Patrick , Li Zhi M. , Julien Maxime , Nun Pierrick , Robins Richard J. , Remaud Gérald S.
Published: October 2016

BIOSCREEN is a well‐known simple tool for evaluating the transport of dissolved contaminants in groundwater, ideal for rapid screening and teaching. This work extends the BIOSCREEN model for the calculation of stable isotope ratios in contaminants. A three‐dimensional exact solution of the reactive transport from a patch source, accounting for fractionation by first‐order decay and/or sorption, is used. The results match those from a previously published isotope model but are much simpler to obtain. Two different isotopes may be computed, and dual isotope plots can be viewed. The dual isotope assessment is a rapidly emerging new approach for identifying process mechanisms in aquifers. Furthermore, deviations of isotope ratios at specific reactive positions with respect to “bulk” ratios in the whole compound can be simulated. This model is named BIOSCREEN‐AT‐ISO and will be downloadable from the journal homepage.
Limits of Cultural Engineering: Actors and Narratives in the European Parliament's House of European History Project
Authors: Kaiser Wolfram
Published: October 2016

Concerned about the EU's apparent lack of cultural legitimacy, EU institutions have increasingly engaged in the transnational politics of history to enhance European identity and foster EU legitimacy. The House of European History museum project in Brussels marks a high point in the European Parliament's history politics. Based on document analysis and interviews, an analysis of the project's origins and evolution highlights the narrow limits of cultural engineering from above by EU institutions, however. The constraining dissensus in EU politics has forced the European Parliament to rely entirely on the curators and professional historians to legitimize its museum as one that conforms to prevailing curatorial and historical standards. As a result, the first permanent exhibition differs markedly from the original plan. Its narrative has become East Europeanized and the history of European integration proper has been marginalized.
Longitudinal Analysis of the Eco‐Design Management Standardization Process in Furniture Companies
Authors: Landeta‐Manzano Beñat , Arana‐Landín Germán , RuizdeArbulo Patxi , DíazdeBasurto Pablo
Published: October 2016

This article discusses how eco‐design management standards have been adopted and the environmental and economic results that have been obtained by the Spanish furniture manufacturers. This is precisely the industry sector in Spain where the dissemination of eco‐design standards has been most important. Using multiple case‐study methodology, the research has shown that, in three companies, more than 90% of the environmental impact of the companies’ products occurs within the manufacturing phase. Companies have implemented tools for life cycle assessment with eco‐indicators values that allow them to assess complex products and evaluate their significant environmental impacts at each stage. The environmental strategies of these companies are based on the continuous improvement of the internal processes and the review and monitoring of their activities. In this approach, the proper choice of materials and the environmental management of the supply chain are the main problems for companies. The outcomes achieved by the companies included some improvements, such as a greater control of product management and a reduction in operating costs, that have allowed them to obtain competitive advantages. Moreover, the adoption of standard management has enabled the companies to drive innovation of products, improve the image of companies and their products, significantly reduce the environmental impact of their products, and adapt to new, more demanding environmental laws and regulations.
Impact of white‐tailed deer on the spread of Borrelia burgdorferi
Authors: ROOME A. , HILL L. , AL‐FEGHALI V. , MURNOCK C. G. , GOODSELL J. A. , SPATHIS R. , GARRUTO R. M.
Published: October 2016

There is a public perception that the white‐tailed deer Odocoileus virginianus (Artiodactyla: Cervidae) is the main reservoir supporting the maintenance and spread of the causative agent of Lyme disease, Borrelia burgdorferi. This study examines the pathogen prevalence rate of Borrelia in adult Ixodes scapularis (Ixodida: Ixodidae), the black‐legged tick, collected from white‐tailed deer and compares it with pathogen prevalence rates in adult ticks gathered by dragging vegetation in two contiguous counties west of the Hudson Valley in upstate New York. In both Broome and Chenango Counties, attached and unattached ticks harvested from white‐tailed deer had significantly lower prevalences of B. burgdorferi than those collected from vegetation. No attached ticks on deer (n = 148) in either county, and only 2.4 and 7.3% of unattached ticks (n = 389) in Broome and Chenango Counties, respectively, were harbouring the pathogen. This contrasts with the finding that 40.8% of ticks in Broome County and 46.8% of ticks in Chenango County collected from vegetation harboured the pathogen. These data suggest that a mechanism in white‐tailed deer may aid in clearing the pathogen from attached deer ticks, although white‐tailed deer do contribute to the spatial distribution of deer tick populations and also serve as deadend host breeding sites for ticks.
Estimating Time‐averaged Serum Urea Nitrogen Concentration during Various Urine Collection Periods: A Prediction Equation for Thrice Weekly and Biweekly Dialysis Schedules
Authors: Daugirdas John T
Published: October 2016

Residual kidney urea clearance in dialysis patients typically is calculated as the per minute excretion of urea nitrogen, obtained during the 24–48 hour collection period that usually ends just prior to a dialysis session, divided by the time‐averaged serum water urea nitrogen concentration during the collection period. This concentration is difficult to estimate unless a formal kinetic modeling program is being used. We used a urea kinetic modeling program to derive an equation to estimate the time‐averaged serum water concentration during urine collection periods of various lengths collected during various interdialytic intervals, for 3/week or 2/week dialysis schedules. The equation to predict time‐averaged serum water urea nitrogen concentration during the collection period was a function of the ratio of the duration of the predialysis collection period to the duration of the interdialytic interval during which the collection was accomplished, as well as the urea reduction ratio and predialysis serum urea nitrogen concentration of the dialysis session immediately following the end of the collection period.
Mechanism of Optimal Targeted Energy Transfer
Authors: Wei Y. M. , Peng Z. K. , Dong X. J. , Zhang W. M. , Meng G.
Published: October 2016

A novel nonlinear vibration reduction mechanism based on targeted energy transfer (TET) is proposed. Targeted energy transfer is a physical phenomenon that describes a one-way irreversible energy flow from a linear oscillator (LO) to a nonlinearizable (essentially) nonlinear auxiliary substructure, noted as nonlinear energy sink (NES). The optimal targeted energy transfer where NES is set on the optimal state is investigated in this study. Complexification-averaging methodology is used to derive the optimal TET of the undamped system for different initial conditions. It is revealed that the optimal TET is dependent on the energy, indicating that passive control of NES cannot be optimally set for arbitrary initial conditions. In addition, it is found that for the undamped system, the optimal phrase difference between the linear primary oscillator and the nonlinear attachment is π/2. From the perspective of active control, the NES can be taken as an actuator to keep the system vibrating on the optimal TET. An available modification form of the optimal equations is proposed for the impulse excitation with relatively small damping. The comparisons of the effectiveness of the optimal TET is validated by using numerical simulations with the excitations including impulse, harmonic, to input with sufficient bandwidth, and random signal. The design procedure would pave the way for practical implications of TET in active vibration control.
Papers of note in
Science
Authors: VanHook Annalisa M.
Published: October 2016

This week’s papers identify macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) as a DNA damage–activated endonuclease.
Inhibit PIM to inhibit PI3K
Authors: Ferrarelli Leslie K.
Published: October 2016

Combination therapy inhibiting the kinase PIM sensitizes breast tumors to PI3K inhibitors.
Surgical Pathologic Diagnosis
Authors: Klassen-Fischer Mary K. , Neafie Ronald C.
Published: October 2016

Surgical pathology results can play a crucial role in the management of immunocompromised patients. Here we highlight factors that differ between immunocompromised and immunocompetent hosts, such as variation in inflammatory response. Conditions that are covered include drug reactions, disease within solid organ allografts, immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome, specific immunodeficiency syndromes, neoplasms related to viral infections, and viral, bacterial, fungal, and parasitic infections. Special techniques including immunohistochemistry,
in situ
hybridization and molecular detection of pathogen nucleic acid from formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue are discussed.
Training volume and soft tissue injury in professional and non-professional rugby union players: a systematic review
Authors: Ball Shane , Halaki Mark , Orr Rhonda
Published: October 2016

Aim

To investigate the relationship between training volume and soft tissue injury incidence, and characterise soft tissue injury in rugby union players.

Design

A systematic search of electronic databases was performed. The search strategy combined terms covering: training volume and injury, and rugby union, and players of all levels.

Data sources

Medline, SPORTDiscus, Web of Science, Embase, PubMed.

Eligibility criteria for selecting studies

Studies were included if they reported: male rugby union players, a clear definition of a rugby union injury, the amount of training volume undertaken by participants, and epidemiological data for soft-tissue injuries including the number or incidence.

Results

15 studies were eligible for inclusion. Overall match and training injury incidence ranged from 3.3 to 218.0 injuries/1000 player match hours and 0.1–6.1 injuries/1000 player training hours, respectively. Muscle and tendon as well as joint (non-bone) and ligament injuries were the most frequently occurring injuries. The lower limb was the most prevalent injury location. Injury incidence was higher in professional rugby union players than non-professional players. Contact events were responsible for the greatest injury incidence. For non-contact mechanisms, running was responsible for the highest injury incidence. Inconsistent injury definitions hindered reliable comparison of injury data. The lack of reporting training volumes in hours per player per week limited the ability to investigate associations between training volume and injury incidence.

Conclusions

A higher level of play may result in higher match injury incidence. Muscle and tendon injuries were the most common type of soft tissue injury, while the lower limb was the most common location of injury in rugby union players, and running was responsible for the highest injury incidence during non-contact events.
Treatment and prevention of acute and recurrent ankle sprain: an overview of systematic reviews with meta-analysis
Authors: Doherty Cailbhe , Bleakley Chris , Delahunt Eamonn , Holden Sinead
Published: October 2016

Background

Ankle sprains are highly prevalent with high risk of recurrence. Consequently, there are a significant number of research reports examining strategies for treating and preventing acute and recurrent sprains (otherwise known as chronic ankle instability (CAI)), with a coinciding proliferation of review articles summarising these reports.

Objective

To provide a systematic overview of the systematic reviews evaluating treatment strategies for acute ankle sprain and CAI.

Design

Overview of intervention systematic reviews.

Participants

Individuals with acute ankle sprain/CAI.

Main outcome measurements

The primary outcomes were injury/reinjury incidence and function.

Results

46 papers were included in this systematic review. The reviews had a mean score of 6.5/11 on the AMSTAR quality assessment tool. There was strong evidence for bracing and moderate evidence for neuromuscular training in preventing recurrence of an ankle sprain. For the combined outcomes of pain, swelling and function after an acute sprain, there was strong evidence for non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and early mobilisation, with moderate evidence supporting exercise and manual therapy techniques. There was conflicting evidence regarding the efficacy of surgery and acupuncture for the treatment of acute ankle sprains. There was insufficient evidence to support the use of ultrasound in the treatment of acute ankle sprains.

Conclusions

For the treatment of acute ankle sprain, there is strong evidence for non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and early mobilisation, with moderate evidence supporting exercise and manual therapy techniques, for pain, swelling and function. Exercise therapy and bracing are supported in the prevention of CAI.
Economic aspects in the management of diabetes in Italy
Authors: Marcellusi A , Viti R , Sciattella P , Aimaretti G , De Cosmo S , Provenzano V , Tonolo G , Mennini F S
Published: October 2016

Background

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic-degenerative disease associated with a high risk of chronic complications and comorbidities. The aim of this study is to estimate the average annual cost incurred by the Italian National Health Service (NHS) for the treatment of DM stratified by patients' comorbidities. Moreover, the model estimates the economic impact of implementing good clinical practice for the management of patients with DM.

Methods

Data were extrapolated from administrative database of the Marche Region and specific inclusion and exclusion criteria were developed from a clinical board in order to estimate patients with DM only, DM+1, DM+2, DM+3 and DM+4 comorbidities (cardiovascular disease, neuropathy, nephropathy and retinopathy). Regional data were considered a good proxy for implementing a previously developed cost-of-illness (COI) model from Italian NHS perspective already published. A scenario analysis was considered to estimate the economic impact of good clinical practice implementation in the treatment of DM and its comorbidities in Italy.

Results

The model estimated an average number of patients with DM per year in the Marche region of 85.909 (5.5% of population) from 2008 to 2011. The mean costs per patients with DM only, DM+1, DM+2, DM+3 and DM+4 comorbidities were €341, €1,335, €2,287, €5,231 and €7,085 respectively. From the Italian NHS perspective, the total economic burden of DM in Italy amounted to €8.1. billion/year (22% for drugs, 74% for hospitalization and 4% for visits). Scenario analysis demonstrates that the implementation of good clinical practice could save over €700 million per year.

Conclusions

This model is the first study that considers real world data and COI model to estimate the economic burden of DM and its comorbidities from the Italian NHS perspective. Integrated management of the patients with DM could be a good driver for the reduction of the costs of this disease in Italy.
Diabetes as an increasingly common comorbidity among patient hospitalizations for tuberculosis in the USA
Authors: Zahr Roula S , Peterson Ryan A , Polgreen Linnea A , Cavanaugh Joseph E , Hornick Douglas B , Winthrop Kevin L , Polgreen Philip M
Published: October 2016

Objective

Diabetes is a risk factor for active tuberculosis (TB). The purpose of this paper was to estimate the risk of hospitalization for TB with and without a secondary diagnosis of diabetes in groups with different ethnic backgrounds.

Research design and methods

We used the Nationwide Inpatient Sample from 1998 to 2011, identifying all patients with a primary diagnosis of TB and/or a secondary diagnosis of diabetes (type 1 or type 2) or HIV. Next, we performed logistic regression to investigate the association of diabetes status, HIV status, and race (and the interaction of diabetes and race) with the risk of hospitalization with a primary diagnosis of TB. We also included a time covariate, to determine whether potential risk factors changed during the study period.

Results

Controlling for HIV status, diabetes did not increase the odds of TB in white and black patients. However, in Hispanic and Asian/Pacific Islander patients, diabetes increased the odds of TB by a factor of 1.7 (95% CI 1.51 to 1.83). Asian/Pacific Islanders who had diabetes but not HIV experienced 26.4 (95% CI 23.1 to 30.1) times the odds of TB relative to the white males without diabetes or HIV. In addition, the percent of TB cases that belong to these high-risk groups (Asian/Pacific Islander/Hispanic diabetics) has more than doubled from 4.6% in 1998 to 9.6% in 2011.

Conclusions

In specific demographic groups, diabetes was a strong risk factor for hospital admissions for TB.
Evaluation of vitamin D relationship with type 2 diabetes and systolic blood pressure
Authors: Nayak Shivananda Bijoor , Ramnanansingh Terry Gavaskar
Published: October 2016

Objective

To investigate whether relationships exist among vitamin D, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and blood pressure in Trinidadian subjects with T2DM.

Research design and methods

This was a case–controlled study to determine if vitamin D levels were lower in patients with T2DM. After data analysis, an exploratory hypothesis of vitamin D relationship to systolic blood pressure (SBP) was developed. Plasma calcifediol (25(OH)D) concentrations were used as a measurement for vitamin D levels and were determined by ELISA. Cholesterol levels were measured by an automated dry chemistry analyzer and blood pressure was measured using an automatic blood pressure monitor.

Results

There was no significant difference (p=0.139, n=76) in 25(OH)D levels between patients with T2DM and controls. Subjects with SBP above 130 mm Hg were 8 times more likely to have a 25(OH)D plasma concentration above 25 ng/mL (OR 7.9 (2.2 to 28.7)), and were 5 times (OR 4.7 (1.7 to 15.1)) more likely to have a 25(OH)D plasma concentration above 30 ng/mL (OR 7.5 (2.3–24.2)). Vitamin D levels moderately and positively correlated with SBP (rs=0.38, p=0.001).

Conclusions

There was no significant difference in the 25(OH)D levels between patients with T2DM and controls (p=0.139). Patients with SBP under 130 mm Hg were 8 times more likely to have a vitamin D level above 25 ng/mL (OR 7.9 (2.2 to 28.7)). Further investigations are required to examine the relationship between vitamin D and SBP.
Psychosocial wellbeing of patients with multidrug resistant tuberculosis voluntarily confined to long-term hospitalisation in Nigeria
Authors: Oladimeji Olanrewaju , Ushie Boniface Ayanbekongshie , Udoh Ekerette Emmanuel , Oladimeji Kelechi Elizabeth , Ige Olusoji Mayowa , Obasanya Olusegun , Lekharu Daisy , Atilola Olayinka , Lawson Lovett , Eltayeb Osman , Gidado Mustapha , Tsoka-Gwegweni Joyce M , Ihekweazu Chikwe A , Chasela Charles S
Published: October 2016

Background and objective

Patient isolation, which is a widely successful treatment strategy for tuberculosis (TB), has been suspected to have effects on patient psychosocial wellbeing. We assessed the psychosocial wellbeing of multidrug resistant TB (MDR-TB) patients in voluntary and isolated long-term hospitalisation in Nigeria.

Methods

98 accessible and consenting patients in four drug-resistant treatment centres (University College Hospital and Government Chest Hospital, Ibadan; Mainland Hospital, Lagos, and Lawrence Henshaw Memorial Hospital, Calabar) were enrolled in this study. Data were collected using an 18-item psychosocial wellbeing questionnaire including sociodemographic characteristics. We used descriptive statistics to present demographic characteristics; the χ2test was used to assess associations between psychosocial wellbeing and independent variables and the relationship was modelled using logistic regression.

Results

The mean age of respondents was 36.1±11.9 years and 63% were males. Respondents had been in hospital an average of 4.5±1.9 months. Females had more psychosocial concerns compared with males. The most common concerns recorded among respondents were concern that people will get to know that the respondent had a bad type of TB (70%), discontent with being separated from and longing for the company of their marital partner (72%), concerns that they may have taken too many drugs (73%), and displeasure with being unable to continue to engage in their usual social and economic activities (75%). Respondents who were employed had eight times the odds of having more psychosocial concerns than the median number among respondents. Respondents who were supported by their own families during hospitalisation experienced a lower burden of psychosocial concerns compared with those who were supported by third parties.

Conclusions

Prolonged hospitalisation resulted in significant psychosocial burden for the MDR-TB patients in our study centres. There is a need to consider alternative approaches that place less psychosocial burden on patients without compromising quality of care.
Consumption of energy drinks by children and young people: a rapid review examining evidence of physical effects and consumer attitudes
Authors: Visram Shelina , Cheetham Mandy , Riby Deborah M , Crossley Stephen J , Lake Amelia A
Published: October 2016

Objective

To examine patterns of energy drink consumption by children and young people, attitudes towards these drinks, and any associations with health or other outcomes.

Design

Rapid evidence assessment and narrative synthesis.

Data sources

9 electronic bibliographic databases, reference lists of relevant studies and searches of the internet.

Results

A total of 410 studies were located, with 46 meeting the inclusion criteria. The majority employed a cross-sectional design, involved participants aged 11–18 years, and were conducted in North America or Europe. Consumption of energy drinks by children and young people was found to be patterned by gender, with boys consuming more than girls, and also by activity levels, with the highest consumption observed in the most and least sedentary individuals. Several studies identified a strong, positive association between the use of energy drinks and higher odds of health-damaging behaviours, as well as physical health symptoms such as headaches, stomach aches, hyperactivity and insomnia. There was some evidence of a dose–response effect. 2 experimental studies involving small numbers of junior athletes demonstrated a positive impact on limited aspects of sports performance. 3 themes emerged from the qualitative studies: reasons for use; influences on use; and perceived efficacy and impact. Taste and energy-seeking were identified as key drivers, and branding and marketing were highlighted as major influences on young people's consumption choices. Awareness of possible negative effects was low.

Conclusions

There is growing evidence that consumption of energy drinks is associated with a range of adverse outcomes and risk behaviours in terms of children's health and well-being. However, taste, brand loyalty and perceived positive effects combine to ensure their popularity with young consumers. More research is needed to explore the short-term and long-term impacts in all spheres, including health, behaviour and education.

Trial registration number

CRD42014010192.
Psychotropic drug use and alcohol consumption among older adults in Germany: results of the German Health Interview and Examination Survey for Adults 2008–2011
Authors: Du Yong , Wolf Ingrid-Katharina , Knopf Hildtraud
Published: October 2016

Objectives

The use and combined use of psychotropic drugs and alcohol among older adults is a growing public health concern and should be constantly monitored. Relevant studies are scarce in Germany. Using data of the most recent national health survey, we analyse prevalence and correlates of psychotropic drug and alcohol use among this population.

Methods

Study participants were people aged 60–79 years (N=2508) of the German Health Interview and Examination Survey for Adults 2008–2011. Medicines used during the last 7 days were documented. Psychotropic drugs were defined as medicines acting on the nervous system (ATC code N00) excluding anaesthetics (N01), analgesics/antipyretics (N02B), but including opiate codeines used as antitussives (R05D). Alcohol consumption in the preceding 12 months was measured by frequency (drinking any alcohol-containing beverages at least once a week/a day) and quantity (alcohol consumed in grams/day; cut-offs: 10/20 g/day for women/men defining moderate and risky drinking). SPSS complex sample module was used for analysis.

Results

21.4% of study participants use psychotropic medications, 66.9% consume alcohol moderately and 17.0% riskily, 51.0% drink alcohol at least once a week and 18.4% daily, 2.8% use psychotropic drugs combined with daily alcohol drinking. Among psychotropic drug users, 62.7% consume alcohol moderately, 14.2% riskily. The most frequently used psychotropic medications are antidepressants (7.9%) and antidementia (4.2%). Factors associated with a higher rate of psychotropic drug use are female sex, worse health status, certified disability and polypharmacy. Risky alcohol consumption is positively associated with male sex, smoking, upper social class, better health status, having no disability and not living alone.

Conclusions

Despite the high risk of synergetic effects of psychotropic drugs and alcohol, a substantial part of older psychotropic drug users consume alcohol riskily and daily. Health professionals should talk about the additional health risks of alcohol consumption when prescribing psychotropic drugs to older adults.
Cluster randomised feasibility trial to improve the Control of Hypertension In Rural India (CHIRI): a study protocol
Authors: Riddell Michaela A , Joshi Rohina , Oldenburg Brian , Chow Clara , Thankappan K R , Mahal Ajay , Thomas Nihal , Srikanth Velandai K , Evans Roger G , Kalyanram Kartik , Kartik Kamakshi , Maulik Pallab K , Arabshahi Simin , Varma R P , Guggilla Rama K , Suresh Oduru , Mini G K , D'Esposito Fabrizio , Sathish Thirunavukkarasu , Alim Mohammed , Thrift Amanda G
Published: October 2016

Introduction

Hypertension is emerging in rural populations of India. Barriers to diagnosis and treatment of hypertension may differ regionally according to economic development. Our main objectives are to estimate the prevalence, awareness, treatment and control of hypertension in 3 diverse regions of rural India; identify barriers to diagnosis and treatment in each setting and evaluate the feasibility of a community-based intervention to improve control of hypertension.

Methods and analysis

This study includes 4 main activities: (1) assessment of risk factors, quality of life, socioeconomic position and barriers to changes in lifestyle behaviours in ∼14 500 participants; (2) focus group discussions with individuals with hypertension and indepth interviews with healthcare providers, to identify barriers to control of hypertension; (3) use of a medicines-availability survey to determine the availability, affordability and accessibility of medicines and (4) trial of an intervention provided by Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs), comprising group-based education and support for individuals with hypertension to self-manage blood pressure. Wards/villages/hamlets of a larger Mandal are identified as the primary sampling unit (PSU). PSUs are then randomly selected for inclusion in the cross-sectional survey, with further randomisation to intervention or control. Changes in knowledge of hypertension and risk factors, and clinical and anthropometric measures, are assessed. Evaluation of the intervention by participants provides insight into perceptions of education and support of self-management delivered by the ASHAs.

Ethics and dissemination

Approval for the overall study was obtained from the Health Ministry's Screening Committee, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (India), institutional review boards at each site and Monash University. In addition to publication in peer-reviewed articles, results will be shared with federal, state and local government health officers, local healthcare providers and communities.

Trial registration number

CTRI/2016/02/006678; Pre-results.
Impact of preterm birth on maternal well-being and women's perceptions of their baby: a population-based survey
Authors: Henderson Jane , Carson Claire , Redshaw Maggie
Published: October 2016

Background

Approximately 15 million babies were born preterm worldwide in 2010 and in England in 2014 there were 52 249 preterm births. Preterm babies are at increased risk of poor outcomes and this can put enormous strain on the family.

Objective

This study aimed to test the hypothesis that giving birth preterm affects maternal health, mood and well-being, and alters women's feelings and perceptions about their baby.

Methods

Data collected in a population-based survey of maternity care in England in 2014 were used. Women were randomly selected and asked about their pregnancy, birth and postnatal experience when their babies were about 3 months of age. Descriptive statistics were produced, and logistic regression used to estimate ORs, adjusted for key confounders.

Main outcome measures—Women's self-reported postnatal health, Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale, women's perceptions of their baby.

Results

4578 women returned completed questionnaires. Of these, 42 (0.9%) had babies born before 32 weeks' gestation and 243 (5.5%) at 32–36 weeks. Comparing the three gestational age groups, no statistically significant differences in rates of depressive symptoms measured on the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale were found. However, using a health problems checklist, anxiety, fatigue and flash-backs were more common in mothers of preterm babies. Overall, mothers of preterm babies had less early contact with their baby, more postnatal health problems, substantially less positive feelings towards their baby and made less use of the support options available.

Conclusions

Women with preterm births are at increased risk of ill-health and negative feelings about their baby in the early months after birth. They make less use of postnatal services and support than other women and this may be an area where the use of specialist services would be appropriate.
First quality score for referral letters in gastroenterology—a validation study
Authors: Eskeland Sigrun Losada , Brunborg Cathrine , Seip Birgitte , Wiencke Kristine , Hovde Øistein , Owen Tanja , Skogestad Erik , Huppertz-Hauss Gert , Halvorsen Fred-Arne , Garborg Kjetil , Aabakken Lars , de Lange Thomas
Published: October 2016

Objective

To create and validate an objective and reliable score to assess referral quality in gastroenterology.

Design

An observational multicentre study.

Setting and participants

25 gastroenterologists participated in selecting variables for a Thirty Point Score (TPS) for quality assessment of referrals to gastroenterology specialist healthcare for 9 common indications. From May to September 2014, 7 hospitals from the South-Eastern Norway Regional Health Authority participated in collecting and scoring 327 referrals to a gastroenterologist.

Main outcome measure

Correlation between the TPS and a visual analogue scale (VAS) for referral quality.

Results

The 327 referrals had an average TPS of 13.2 (range 1–25) and an average VAS of 4.7 (range 0.2–9.5). The reliability of the score was excellent, with an intra-rater intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) of 0.87 and inter-rater ICC of 0.91. The overall correlation between the TPS and the VAS was moderate (r=0.42), and ranged from fair to substantial for the various indications. Mean agreement was good (ICC=0.47, 95% CI (0.34 to 0.57)), ranging from poor to good.

Conclusions

The TPS is reliable, objective and shows good agreement with the subjective VAS. The score may be a useful tool for assessing referral quality in gastroenterology, particularly important when evaluating the effect of interventions to improve referral quality.
Muscle function is associated with future patient-reported outcomes in young adults with ACL injury
Authors: Flosadottir Vala , Roos Ewa M , Ageberg Eva
Published: October 2016

Background/aim

Consequences of an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury include worse patient-reported outcomes (PROs) and a decrease in activity level. Muscle function can be improved by targeted exercise. Our aims were to investigate cross-sectional and longitudinal associations among lower extremity muscle function and PROs after ACL injury.

Methods

Fifty-four participants (15 women, mean 30 years) with ACL injury or reconstruction, from the Knee Anterior Cruciate Ligament, Nonsurgical versus Surgical Treatment (KANON) trial (ISRCTN84752559), were assessed with hop performance, muscle power and postural orientation 3 years (SD 0.85) after ACL injury. PROs at 3 and 5 years after injury included Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS) subscales Function in sport and recreation (KOOS Sport/rec) and Knee-related Quality of life (KOOS QoL), KOOS item Q3 (KOOS Q3), Tegner Activity Scale and Activity Rating Scale (ARS). Partial Spearman's rank-order correlation was used to analyse correlations between muscle function and PROs, controlling for gender and treatment.

Results

Numerous cross-sectional correlations were observed between muscle function and PROs (rsp≈0.3–0.5, p≤0.045). Worse hop performance and worse postural orientation were associated with worse KOOS scores 2 years later (rsp≥0.280, p≤0.045). Worse muscle power was associated with lower future ARS scores (rsp=0.281, p=0.044).

Conclusions

The moderate associations suggest that improving muscle function during rehabilitation could improve present and future PROs.
Interplay of host genetics and gut microbiota underlying the onset and clinical presentation of inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Imhann Floris , Vich Vila Arnau , Bonder Marc Jan , Fu Jingyuan , Gevers Dirk , Visschedijk Marijn C , Spekhorst Lieke M , Alberts Rudi , Franke Lude , van Dullemen Hendrik M , Ter Steege Rinze W F , Huttenhower Curtis , Dijkstra Gerard , Xavier Ramnik J , Festen Eleonora A M , Wijmenga Cisca , Zhernakova Alexandra , Weersma Rinse K
Published: October 2016

Objective

Patients with IBD display substantial heterogeneity in clinical characteristics. We hypothesise that individual differences in the complex interaction of the host genome and the gut microbiota can explain the onset and the heterogeneous presentation of IBD. Therefore, we performed a case–control analysis of the gut microbiota, the host genome and the clinical phenotypes of IBD.

Design

Stool samples, peripheral blood and extensive phenotype data were collected from 313 patients with IBD and 582 truly healthy controls, selected from a population cohort. The gut microbiota composition was assessed by tag-sequencing the 16S rRNA gene. All participants were genotyped. We composed genetic risk scores from 11 functional genetic variants proven to be associated with IBD in genes that are directly involved in the bacterial handling in the gut: NOD2, CARD9, ATG16L1, IRGM and FUT2.

Results

Strikingly, we observed significant alterations of the gut microbiota of healthy individuals with a high genetic risk for IBD: the IBD genetic risk score was significantly associated with a decrease in the genus Roseburia in healthy controls (false discovery rate 0.017). Moreover, disease location was a major determinant of the gut microbiota: the gut microbiota of patients with colonic Crohn's disease (CD) is different from that of patients with ileal CD, with a decrease in alpha diversity associated to ileal disease (p=3.28×10−13).

Conclusions

We show for the first time that genetic risk variants associated with IBD influence the gut microbiota in healthy individuals. Roseburia spp are acetate-to-butyrate converters, and a decrease has already been observed in patients with IBD.
Sidewall cerebral aneurysms: effect of an outflow angle-assisted approach on diagnosis
Authors: Sun Ling-Jun , Li Yong-Dong , Yang Bao-Zhi , Li Ming-Hua , Wang Wu , Gu Bin-Xian
Published: October 2016

Background

The ability to diagnose sidewall cerebral aneurysms (SCAs) on an angle measurement basis may be useful in clinical practice. A study was undertaken to evaluate the effect of an outflow angle (OA)-assisted approach.

Methods

MR angiography (MRA) images of 438 patients with suspected SCAs and other cerebrovascular diseases were separately evaluated using the subjective approach and the OA approach. The approaches were then exchanged for confirmation of unclear cases. An OA of ≥90° was considered to represent SCA positivity. The accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity of the OA-assisted approach were determined using patient-based, aneurysm-based, and size-based evaluations.

Results

Digital subtraction angiography (DSA) detected 301 SCAs in 267 patients and no SCAs in 171. An OA of ≥90° was observed for 271 aneurysms in 244 patients (true positives); the OA approach misinterpreted OA as <90° for 29 aneurysms in 29 patients (false negatives) and missed one aneurysm. The subjective approach detected 309 SCAs in 273 patients. This approach misdiagnosed 10 patients (false positives) and missed two aneurysms in two patients (false negatives). The OA-assisted approach detected 300 SCAs in 267 patients and no SCAs in 171, overlooking one aneurysm. Patient-based evaluation yielded high accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values for the OA-assisted approach.

Conclusions

The OA-assisted approach for SCA diagnosis effectively reduced the false-positive rate obtained with the subjective approach with high accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity, suggesting that MRA based on this approach can be a reliable alternative to DSA in SCA screening and diagnosis.
Republished: Retreatment of a choroidal vein of Galen malformation with embolization 42 years after open surgical treatment in the neonatal period
Authors: Elijovich Lucas , Choudhri Asim F , Arthur Adam S , Klimo Paul , Boop Frederick A , Berenstein Alejandro
Published: October 2016

In 1976 an infant boy initially presented with a choroidal vein of Galen malformation (cVOGM). Craniotomy and clipping of the anterior cerebral artery and posterior choroidal arteries was performed, which was reported in the literature 40 years ago. The patient remained asymptomatic until age 42 when he re-presented with an isolated intraventricular hemorrhage. Angiography demonstrated cVOGM with venous sinus occlusive disease leading to venous hypertension and subsequent intraventricular hemorrhage. The angiogram also demonstrated a ‘pseudo-nidus’ composed of multiple arterial-to-arterial anastomoses that had developed as a result of the original surgical treatment. We embolized a portion of the lesion to reduce the venous hypertension. The patient has been asymptomatic for more than 2 years. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of a symptomatic neonatal VOGM treated with open surgery that required embolization as an adult for a delayed hemorrhagic presentation.
Cardiovascular disease in cancer survivors
Authors: Okwuosa Tochi M , Anzevino Sarah , Rao Ruta
Published: October 2016

Certain cancer therapies, including radiation therapy and some types of chemotherapies, are associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and events. Some of these effects such as those presented by anthracyclines, radiation therapy, cisplatin, as well as those presented by hormone therapy for breast cancer—usually taken for many years for some breast and prostate cancers—are long-lasting and associated with cardiovascular events risk more than 20 years after cancer treatment. Cardiovascular testing, diagnostic assessment of suspected cardiovascular symptomatology, as well as laboratory tests for CVD risk factors are imperative. The early recognition and treatment of CVD processes that arise in survivorship years is pivotal, with specific attention to some CVD processes with specific suggested treatment modalities. Preventive measures include adequate screening, the use of medications such as ACE inhibitors/angiotensin receptor blockers and/or beta blockers, statin therapy and aspirin in persons who warrant these medications, as well as therapeutic lifestyle modifications such as exercise/physical activity, weight loss and appropriate diet for a healthy lifestyle. Periodic follow-up with a good primary care physician who understands the risks associated with cancer therapy is important, and referral to onco-cardiology for further management of cardiovascular risk in these survivors is based on a patient’s cardiovascular risk level and the type, amount and duration of cancer therapies received during the patient’s lifetime.
Interleukin-6 secreted by bipotential murine oval liver stem cells induces apoptosis of activated hepatic stellate cells by activating NF-κB-inducible nitric oxide synthase signaling
Authors: Gajalakshmi Palanivel , Majumder Syamantak , Viebahn Cornelia S. , Swaminathan Akila , Yeoh George C. , Chatterjee Suvro
Published: October 2016

Liver fibrosis is now well recognized as the causative factor for increased mortality from complications associated with liver pathologies. Activated hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) play a critical role in the progression of liver fibrosis. Therefore, targeting these activated HSCs to prevent and (or) treat liver disease is a worthwhile approach to explore. In the present in vitro study, we investigated the use of bipotential murine oval liver cells (BMOL) in regulating the functions of activated HSCs to prevent progression of liver fibrosis. We used a conditioned medium-based approach to study the effect of BMOL cells on activated HSC survival and function. Our data showed that BMOL cells block the contraction of activated HSCs by inducing apoptosis of these cells. We demonstrated that BMOL cells secrete soluble factors, such as interleukin-6 (IL-6), which induced apoptosis of activated HSCs. Using both pharmacological and molecular inhibitor approaches, we further identified that IL-6-mediated activation of NF-κB–iNOS–NO–ROS signaling in activated HSCs plays a critical role in BMOL-cell-mediated apoptosis of activated HSCs. Thus, the present study provides an alternative cell-based therapeutic approach to treat liver fibrosis.
Similarity indices based on link weight assignment for link prediction of unweighted complex networks
Authors: Liu Shuxin , Ji Xinsheng , Liu Caixia , Bai Yi
Published: October 2016

Many link prediction methods have been proposed for predicting the likelihood that a link exists between two nodes in complex networks. Among these methods, similarity indices are receiving close attention. Most similarity-based methods assume that the contribution of links with different topological structures is the same in the similarity calculations. This paper proposes a local weighted method, which weights the strength of connection between each pair of nodes. Based on the local weighted method, six local weighted similarity indices extended from unweighted similarity indices (including Common Neighbor (CN), Adamic-Adar (AA), Resource Allocation (RA), Salton, Jaccard and Local Path (LP) index) are proposed. Empirical study has shown that the local weighted method can significantly improve the prediction accuracy of these unweighted similarity indices and that in sparse and weakly clustered networks, the indices perform even better.
Ontology-Based Data Quality Management for Data Streams
Authors: Geisler Sandra , Quix Christoph , Weber Sven , Jarke Matthias
Published: October 2016

Data Stream Management Systems (DSMS) provide real-time data processing in an effective way, but there is always a tradeoff between data quality (DQ) and performance. We propose an ontology-based data quality framework for relational DSMS that includes DQ measurement and monitoring in a transparent, modular, and flexible way. We follow a threefold approach that takes the characteristics of relational data stream management for DQ metrics into account. While (1)
Query Metrics
respect changes in data quality due to query operations, (2)
Content Metrics
allow the semantic evaluation of data in the streams. Finally, (3)
Application Metrics
allow easy user-defined computation of data quality values to account for application specifics. Additionally, a quality monitor allows us to observe data quality values and take counteractions to balance data quality and performance. The framework has been designed along a DQ management methodology suited for data streams. It has been evaluated in the domains of transportation systems and health monitoring.
First Report ofEurycoma longifoliaJack Root Extract Causing Relaxation of Aortic Rings in Rats
Authors: Tee Bae Huey , Hoe See Ziau , Cheah Swee Hung , Lam Sau Kuen
Published: October 2016

AlthoughEurycoma longifoliahas been studied for erectile function, the blood pressure- (BP-) lowering effect has yet to be verified. Hence, this study aims at investigating the BP-lowering properties of the plant with a view to develop an antihypertensive agent that could also preserve erectile function. Ethanolic root extract was partitioned by hexane, dichloromethane (DCM), ethyl acetate, butanol, and water. The DCM fraction, found to be potent in relaxing phenylephrine- (PE-) precontracted rat aortic rings, was further purified by column chromatography. Subfraction DCM-II, being the most active in relaxing aortae, was studied for effects on the renin-angiotensin and kallikrein-kinin systems in aortic rings. The effect of DCM-II on angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) activity was also evaluatedin vitro. Results showed that DCM-II reduced (p<0.05) the contractions evoked by angiotensin I and angiotensin II (Ang II). In PE-precontracted rings treated with DCM-II, the Ang II-induced contraction was attenuated (p<0.05) while bradykinin- (BK-) induced relaxation enhanced (p<0.001).In vitro, DCM-II inhibited (p<0.001) the activity of ACE. These data demonstrate that the vasodilatory effect of DCM-II appears to be mediatedviainhibition of Ang II type 1 receptor and ACE as well as enhancement of Ang II type 2 receptor activation and BK activity.
Validated Stability Indicating Chromatographic Method for the Simultaneous Estimation of Camylofin with NSAID Drugs and a New Approach of Method Transfer from Classical HPLC to a Modern UPLC Instrument
Authors: Makwana Sheetal , Patel Madhavi , Prajapati Devang , Shingala Chandni , Upadhyay Jatin , Shah Anamik
Published: October 2016

The presented work describes the method development of simultaneous determination of camylofin dihydrochloride (CMF), diclofenac potassium (DCF), and Paracetamol (PCM) using reversed phase high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC-UV) and the method was further transferred to a new generation instrument, ultraperformance liquid chromatography (UPLC-PDA). The detailed validation was carried out for the combination tablet formulation of CMF and DCF by UPLC-PDA. From the method development study, Acquity UPLC HSS C18 (2.1 × 50 mm, 1.8 μm) was finally selected for validation. The satisfactory results were observed for peak shape, retention time, and resolution with a mobile phase of 20 mM ammonium acetate buffer (pH 3.0 with dilute orthophosphoric acid) : methanol (33 : 67 v/v). The isocratic elution of mobile phase was carried out at a flow rate of 0.250 mL/min and detection at 220 nm. Both drugs were efficiently separated out in less than 3.5 min with 1.1 and 3.2 min of retention time of the CMF and DCF with 11.87 of resolution. The linearity was obtained in the 20.0–80.0 μg/mL range of concentration with 0.9998 of correlation coefficients for the substances. The method was analyzed for specificity with detailed force degradation study, which is a simple, precise, and accurate method, as per the International Conference on Harmonization (ICH) guidelines.