bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pannexin3 inhibits TNF‐α‐induced inflammatory response by suppressing NF‐κB signalling pathway in human dental pulp cells
Authors: Song Fangfang , Sun Hualing , Wang Yake , Yang Hongye , Huang Liyuan , Fu Dongjie , Gan Jing , Huang Cui
Published: September 2016

Human dental pulp cells (HDPCs) play a crucial role in dental pulp inflammation. Pannexin 3 (Panx3), a member of Panxs (Pannexins), has been recently found to be involved in inflammation. However, the mechanism of Panx3 in human dental pulp inflammation remains unclear. In this study, the role of Panx3 in inflammatory response was firstly explored, and its potential mechanism was proposed. Immunohistochemical staining showed that Panx3 levels were diminished in inflamed human and rat dental pulp tissues. In vitro, Panx3 expression was significantly down‐regulated in HDPCs following a TNF‐α challenge in a concentration‐dependent way, which reached the lowest level at 10 ng/ml of TNF‐α. Such decrease could be reversed by MG132, a proteasome inhibitor. Unlike MG132, BAY 11‐7082, a NF‐κB inhibitor, even reinforced the inhibitory effect of TNF‐α. Quantitative real‐time PCR (qRT‐PCR) and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) were used to investigate the role of Panx3 in inflammatory response of HDPCs. TNF‐α‐induced pro‐inflammatory cytokines, interleukin (IL)‐1β and IL‐6, were significantly lessened when Panx3 was overexpressed in HDPCs. Conversely, Panx3 knockdown exacerbated the expression of pro‐inflammatory cytokines. Moreover, Western blot, dual‐luciferase reporter assay, immunofluorescence staining, qRT‐PCR and ELISA results showed that Panx3 participated in dental pulp inflammation in a NF‐κB‐dependent manner. These findings suggested that Panx3 has a defensive role in dental pulp inflammation, serving as a potential target to be exploited for the intervention of human dental pulp inflammation.
Macrophages of genetically characterized familial hypercholesterolaemia patients show up‐regulation of LDL‐receptor‐related proteins
Authors: Escate Rafael , Padro Teresa , Borrell‐Pages Maria , Suades Rosa , Aledo Rosa , Mata Pedro , Badimon Lina
Published: September 2016

Familial hypercholesterolaemia (FH) is a major risk for premature coronary heart disease due to severe long‐life exposure to high LDL levels. Accumulation of LDL in the vascular wall triggers atherosclerosis with activation of the innate immunity system. Here, we have investigated (i) gene expression of LDLR and LRPs in peripheral blood cells (PBLs) and in differentiated macrophages of young FH‐patients; and (ii) whether macrophage from FH patients have a differential response when exposed to high levels of atherogenic LDL. PBLs in young heterozygous genetically characterized FH patients have higher expression of LRP5 and LRP6 than age‐matched healthy controls or patients with secondary hypercholesterolaemia. LRP1 levels were similar among groups. In monocyte‐derived macrophages (MACs), LRP5 and LRP1 transcript levels did not differ between FHs and controls in resting conditions, but when exposed to agLDL, FH‐MAC showed a highly significant up‐regulation of LRP5, while LRP1 was unaffected. PBL and MAC cells from FH patients had significantly lower LDLR expression than control cells, independently of the lipid‐lowering therapy. Furthermore, exposure of FH‐MAC to agLDL resulted in a reduced expression of CD163, scavenger receptor with anti‐inflammatory and atheroprotective properties. In summary, our results show for first time that LRPs, active lipid‐internalizing receptors, are up‐regulated in innate immunity cells of young FH patients that have functional LDLR mutations. Additionally, their reduced CD163 expression indicates less atheroprotection. Both mechanisms may play a synergic effect on the onset of premature atherosclerosis in FH patients.
Adiponectin and pro‐inflammatory cytokines are modulated in Vietnamese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Tong Hoang Van , Luu Nguyen Kim , Son Ho Anh , Hoan Nguyen Van , Hung Trinh Thanh , Velavan Thirumalaisamy P , Toan Nguyen Linh
Published: September 2016

Aims/Introduction

Adipose tissue‐derived hormones are associated with metabolic disorders including type 2 diabetes mellitus. The present study investigated the levels of adiponectin and pro‐inflammatory cytokines including tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), interleukin‐1 beta (IL‐1β) and IL‐10 in Vietnamese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, and their correlations with clinical parameters of overweight and type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Materials and Methods

Based on body mass index, 73 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus were categorized either as overweight or non‐overweight. As healthy controls, 57 overweight and non‐overweight individuals without type 2 diabetes mellitus were included. The adiponectin, TNF‐α, IL‐1β and IL‐10 levels were measured in the sera samples in all study participants by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay and were correlated with clinical parameters.

Results

The adiponectin levels were lower in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (2.5 ± 1.5 μg/mL) compared with controls (16 ± 18.6 μg/mL; P < 0.0001), and were decreased in overweight individuals compared with those who were not overweight. The TNF‐α and IL‐1β levels were increased, whereas the IL‐10 levels were decreased in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and in overweight controls compared with non‐overweight controls (P < 0.0001). The adiponectin levels were correlated with the TNF‐α, IL‐1β, IL‐10 levels, and the clinical parameters of overweight and type 2 diabetes mellitus. The quantitative insulin sensitivity check index and homeostasis model assessment insulin resistance indexes were correlated with the relative ratios of adiponectin/TNF‐α, adiponectin/IL‐1β, adiponectin/IL‐10, TNF‐α/IL‐10 and IL‐1β/IL‐10.

Conclusions

Adiponectin and pro‐inflammatory cytokines are associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus, and might serve as a prognostic marker and a therapeutic intervention for overweight‐related type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Micro‐CT Evaluation of Ceramic Inlays: Comparison of the Marginal and Internal Fit of Five and Three Axis CAM Systems with a Heat Press Technique
Authors: Alajaji Norah K. , Bardwell David , Finkelman Matthew , Ali Ala
Published: September 2016

Objectives

To evaluate the marginal and internal adaptation of CAD/CAM lithium‐disilicate inlay restorations fabricated by two milling systems (Five and Three‐axis), and a traditional heat‐press technique.

Methods

Fifteen premolar teeth with an MOD cavity preparation were fabricated. Lithium‐disilicate inlay restorations were obtained by three fabrication techniques and fitted to their dies (n = 15/gp) as follows: Group‐1, three‐axis milling system, Group‐2, five‐axis milling system, Group‐3, conventional heat‐press technique. Gaps were evaluated by X‐ray microtomography. Marginal gap (MG), occlusal‐marginal gap (OMG), proximal‐marginal gap (PMG), gingival‐marginal gap (GMG), absolute marginal discrepancy (AMD), axial‐internal gap (AIG), and occlusal‐internal gap (OIG) were evaluated at 120 different points per inlay. Data were analyzed using repeated measures ANOVA. Pairwise comparisons were conducted for post‐hoc testes and the Bonferroni correction was used to adjust for multiple comparisons (α = 0.007).

Results

The heat‐press group demonstrated significantly smaller mean‐values amongst all outcomes compared with CAD/CAM groups except for GMG, where there was no statistically significant difference between groups in the ANOVA (p = 0.042). Within the CAD/CAM groups, the five‐axis group showed significantly lower OMG mean‐value compared with the three‐axis group p < 0.001, and lower AIG mean‐value compared with the three‐axis group p < 0.001. There was no significant difference between the five‐axis and the three‐axis groups' AMD, MG, PMG, and OIG locations.

Conclusion

Different fabrication techniques affected the marginal and internal adaptation of ceramic inlay restorations. The heat‐press group showed the best marginal and internal adaptation results; however, in every group, all samples were within the clinically acceptable MG limit (100 μm).

Clinical Significance

The marginal fit and internal adaptation of inlay ceramic restorations fabricated by a five‐axis milling system have not been tested or compared with those fabricated by three‐axis machines and the conventional heat‐press method. The preferred method of inlay fabrication, whether in the lab or chair side, may be influenced by the results of this study and could affect future clinical decision‐making. (J Esthet Restor Dent 29:49–58, 2017)
Optimization of modified atmosphere gases composition used for storage of high‐fiber muffins
Authors: Wyrwisz Jarosław , Kurek Marcin , Karp Sabina , Moczkowska Małgorzata , Stelmasiak Adrian , Wierzbicka Agnieszka
Published: September 2016

Four different dietary fibers were studied: oat fiber (AS), apple fiber (MD), carrot fiber (DC), and cocoa fiber (TC) and control sample. The muffins were produced to achieve more than 6 g/100 g of the final product. Each muffin with dietary fiber was packed in MAP with an initial gas mixture: 25% CO2, 50% CO2, 75% CO2, 100% CO2 using nitrogen as an inert gas in MAP system. The quality of muffins was examined on the 1st and 15th day of packaging. We have observed that the firmness of the control sample was mainly dependent on CO2 concentration in the MAP. The interaction between the CO2 and days most significantly affected the firmness of DC samples. The firmness of MD samples was mostly affected by the CO2 level. The opposite was with AS samples, where the springiness was significantly dependent on the interaction between the CO2 and N2 interaction, similar to TC. DC samples were affected slightly by the interaction between the CO2 and the day. The optimized composition of gases to MAP for each of the muffins with dietary fiber was developed. The verification of the model stated that for the control sample, the CO2 was 98.2%, AS—62.7%, DC—87.0%, TC—92.0%, and MD—76.5%.

Practical application

According to WHO Report 2015 about obesity, around 17% of children and more than 30% of adults are currently considered obese so the obesity epidemic remains one of the nation's most severe health crises. One way to prevent this disease is to reduce the intake of fat or sugar and be comparable to conventional products according to consumer acceptance. Therefore, in the present work, we have developed an innovative packaging system in which the dough (i.e., muffins) is loaded with increased dietary fiber content and increased antioxidant status to maintain their healthy value. For this purpose, an effective statistical method—response surface methodology, which is appropriate for optimization of processes or formulations, was used. The technology of storage of high‐fiber muffins was developed to prevent deterioration and prevent a decrease in quality.
Mathematical modeling and quality properties of a dehydrated native Chilean berry
Authors: Quispe‐Fuentes Issis , Vega‐Gálvez Antonio , Vásquez Valeria , Uribe Elsa , Astudillo Sebastián
Published: September 2016

Maqui (Aristotelia chilensis [Molina] Stuntz) berry dehydration, drying kinetics (40–80°C), and drying temperature effects on texture profile, rehydration properties, dietary fiber, and sugar contents were evaluated. The Midilli–Kucuk model presented the best fitting to the drying curves. The effective diffusion coefficients varied from 0.34 × 10−10 m2 s−1 at 40°C to 2.14 × 10−10 m2 s−1 at 80°C. The texture profile analysis showed a slight difference in some parameters (springiness, gumminess cohesiveness, and chewiness). The WHC parameters had no significant differences in the range 50–80°C. The insoluble dietary fiber content was greater than the soluble one in all the samples. Also, the dietary fiber, fructose, and glucose contents increased in value with an increase in temperature. The results could be used to estimate the best drying conditions for producing a dehydrated maqui product.

Practical application

This native berry is categorized as a “superfruit” due to its great number of wholesome properties. However, it is highly perishable and is primarily marketed as a powder since it is stable after drying. This study is the first one that provides results on both quality changes and energy consumption of the drying process. This information, here, can help engineers and marketers to determine the best drying conditions for maqui berries so that they retain their antioxidant properties and dietary fiber contents as well as maintain proper rehydration and texture properties, all of them interesting for to functional food marketing.
Trends in Incidence of Disability in Activities of Daily Living in Chinese Older Adults: 1993–2006
Authors: Liang Yajun , Welmer Anna‐Karin , Wang Rui , Song Aiqin , Fratiglioni Laura , Qiu Chengxuan
Published: September 2016

Objectives

To investigate time trends in incidence of activity of daily living (ADL) disability of Chinese older adults and to explore factors potentially contributing to trends.

Design

Population‐based prospective study using a multistage, randomized, cluster sampling process.

Setting

Nine provinces of China.

Participants

Three consecutive cohorts of people aged 60 and older from the China Health and Nutrition Survey: cohort 1993–2000 (n = 831), cohort 1997–2004 (n = 1,091), cohort 2000–2006 (n = 1,152).

Measurements

Disability in ADLs was defined as inability to perform at least one of five self‐care activities (transferring, dressing, toileting, bathing, feeding). Data were analyzed using Cox and generalized estimating equation models.

Results

The incidence (per 1,000 person‐years) of ADL disability decreased significantly from 35.3 in 1993–2000 and 28.9 in 1997–2004 to 24.3 in 2000–2006 in Chinese older adults (Ptrend < .001). The incidence of ADL disability decreased significantly in men and women, in young‐old adults (aged 60–74), and in those living in rural areas (all Ptrend ≤ .02) after controlling for multiple potential influential factors. Of the five ADL items, decline in incidence of disability was significant in transferring (Ptrend < .001) and bathing (Ptrend = .002) and marginally significant in toileting (Ptrend = .06) but stable in dressing (Ptrend = .38) and feeding (Ptrend = .26).

Conclusion

The incidence of ADL disability decreased from 1993 to 2006 in older adults in China, especially in transferring and bathing, independent of sociodemographic, lifestyle, and chronic health conditions.
Change in Quality of Life and Its Association with Oral Health and Other Factors in Community‐Dwelling Elderly Adults—A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Bidinotto Augusto Bacelo , Santos Camila Mello dos , Tôrres Luísa Helena do Nascimento , de Sousa Maria da Luz Rosário , Hugo Fernando Neves , Hilgert Juliana Balbinot
Published: September 2016

Objectives

To determine whether changes in oral health status were associated with decline in quality of life (QoL).

Design

Prospective cohort study.

Setting

Carlos Barbosa, southern Brazil.

Participants

A random sample of 872 community‐dwelling individuals aged 60 and older was evaluated in 2004. The current study population consisted of 389 participants available for follow‐up in 2012.

Measures

Change in QoL was assessed through the use of the short version of the World Health Organization QoL Assessment tool (WHOQOL‐BREF) at baseline and follow‐up. Each WHOQOL domain generates a score, with changes being calculated for each domain. Individuals with the same or higher scores at follow‐up were categorized as having improved QoL, and those with lower scores were categorized as having a decline in QoL. Sociodemographic and health variables were assessed in an interview, and tooth loss, use of dental prostheses, and satisfaction with chewing ability and oral appearance were verified through oral examinations. Interviews and examinations were repeated. Risk ratios (RRs) relative to the outcome and independent variables were estimated using Poisson regression with a robust variance estimator.

Results

Tooth loss was a risk factor for decline in the psychological domain of QoL (RR = 1.04, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.02–1.06). Improvement in satisfaction with chewing ability was a protective factor for decline in this same domain (RR = 0.69, 95% CI = 0.50–0.97). Greater satisfaction with oral appearance was a protective factor against decline in social (RR = 0.84, 95% CI = 0.72–0.98) and environmental (RR = 0.77, 95% CI = 0.61–0.97) domain scores.

Conclusion

Preventing tooth loss and recognizing and properly addressing concerns about chewing and dental appearance can affect the general well‐being of community‐dwelling elderly adults.
Evaluating the Use of Global Sensitivity Analysis in Dynamic MFA
Authors: Džubur Nađa , Buchner Hanno , Laner David
Published: September 2016

Dynamic material flow analysis (MFA) provides information about material usage over time and consequent changes in material stocks and flows. In order to understand the effect of limited data quality and model assumptions on MFA results, the use of sensitivity analysis methods in dynamic MFA studies has been on the increase. So far, sensitivity analysis in dynamic MFA has been conducted by means of a one‐at‐a‐time method, which tests parameter perturbations individually and observes the outcomes on output. In contrast to that, variance‐based global sensitivity analysis decomposes the variance of the model output into fractions caused by the uncertainty or variability of input parameters. The present study investigates interaction and time‐delay effects of uncertain parameters on the output of an archetypal input‐driven dynamic material flow model using variance‐based global sensitivity analysis. The results show that determining the main (first‐order) effects of parameter variations is often sufficient in dynamic MFA because substantial effects attributed to the simultaneous variation of several parameters (higher‐order effects) do not appear for classical setups of dynamic material flow models. For models with time‐varying parameters, time‐delay effects of parameter variation on model outputs need to be considered, potentially boosting the computational cost of global sensitivity analysis. Finally, the implications of exploring the sensitivities of model outputs with respect to parameter variations in the archetypical model are used to derive model‐ and goal‐specific recommendations on choosing appropriate sensitivity analysis methods in dynamic MFA.
National Partnership for Maternal Safety: Consensus Bundle on Venous Thromboembolism
Authors: D'Alton Mary E. , Friedman Alexander M. , Smiley Richard M. , Montgomery Douglas M. , Paidas Michael J. , D'Oria Robyn , Frost Jennifer L. , Hameed Afshan B. , Karsnitz Deborah , Levy Barbara S. , Clark Steven L.
Published: September 2016

Obstetric venous thromboembolism is a leading cause of severe maternal morbidity and mortality. Maternal death from thromboembolism is amenable to prevention, and thromboprophylaxis is the most readily implementable means of systematically reducing the maternal death rate. Observational data support the benefit of risk‐factor‐based prophylaxis in reducing obstetric thromboembolism. This bundle, developed by a multidisciplinary working group and published by the National Partnership for Maternal Safety under the guidance of the Council on Patient Safety in Women's Health Care, supports routine thromboembolism risk assessment for obstetric patients, with appropriate use of pharmacologic and mechanical thromboprophylaxis. Safety bundles outline critical clinical practices that should be implemented in every maternity unit. The safety bundle is organized into 4 domains: Readiness, Recognition, Response, and Reporting and Systems Learning. Although the bundle components may be adapted to meet the resources available in individual facilities, standardization within an institution is strongly encouraged.
Emergency nurses' evaluation of observational pain assessment tools for older people with cognitive impairment
Authors: Fry Margaret , Arendts Glenn , Chenoweth Lynn
Published: September 2016

Aims and objectives

To explore emergency nurses’ perceptions of the feasibility and utility of Pain Assessment in Advanced Dementia tool in people over 65 with cognitive impairment. The Pain Assessment in Advanced Dementia tool was then compared with The Abbey Pain Scale, Doloplus‐2 and PACSLAC. The objective was to determine which observational pain assessment tool was the most appropriate for the emergency department context and the cognitively impaired older person.

Background

The number of older people with cognitive impairment conditions, such as dementia, presenting to the emergency department is increasing. Approximately 28% of people over 65 years who present will have cognitive impairment. Older people with cognitive impairment often receive suboptimal pain management in the ED. There is limited evidence of the use and/or appropriateness of dementia‐specific pain observation assessment tools in the ED.

Design

This was a multicentre exploratory qualitative study, which was conducted within a constructivist paradigm.

Methods

Focus group interviews were conducted with nurses across three hospital emergency departments. Data were subject to thematic analysis.

Results

Six focus groups were conducted with 36 nurses over a 12‐week period. Four themes emerged from the analysis: 1) cognitive impairment is a barrier to pain management; 2) PAINAD gives structure to pain assessment; 3) PAINAD assists to convey pain intensity; and 4) selection of an appropriate observational pain assessment tool.

Conclusions

This study identified that emergency nurses find it challenging to detect, assess and manage pain in cognitively impaired people. While the use of the PAINAD helped to address these challenges compared to other tools, nurses also identified the important role that family and carers can play in pain assessment and management for older people with cognitive impairment.

Relevance to clinical practice

This study has generated new knowledge that has broad application across clinical settings, which can assist to transform pain management practice and reduce human suffering. The use of an observational pain assessment tool can provide for greater practice consistency for patients with communication difficulties. Pain management for older people with cognitive impairment is best achieved by the use an appropriate observational pain assessment tool and with a multidisciplinary approach that includes the person and their family/carer.
Emergency nurses’ decisions regarding frequency and nature of vital sign assessment
Authors: Lambe Katherine , Currey Judy , Considine Julie
Published: September 2016

Aims and objectives

To explore the factors emergency nurses use to inform their decisions regarding frequency and nature of vital sign assessment.

Background

Research related to clinical deterioration and vital sign assessment in the emergency department is in its infancy. Studies to date have explored the frequency of vital sign assessment in the emergency department; however, there are no published studies that have examined factors that emergency nurses use to inform their decisions regarding frequency and nature of ongoing vital sign assessment.

Design

A prospective exploratory design was used. Data were collected using a survey consisting of eight patient vignettes.

Methods

The study was conducted in one emergency department in metropolitan Melbourne. Participants were emergency nurses permanently employed at the study site.

Results

A 96% response rate was achieved (n = 47/49). The most common frequency of patient reassessment nominated by participants was 15 or 30 minutely, with an equal number of participants choosing these frequency intervals. Abnormality in initial vital sign parameters was the most common factor identified for choosing either a 15‐ or 30‐minute assessment interval. Frequency of assessment decisions was influenced by years of emergency nursing experience in one vignette and level of postgraduate qualification in three vignettes. Heart rate, respiratory rate and blood pressure were all nominated by over 80% of participants as vital signs that participants considered important for reassessment. The frequency and nature of vital signs selected varied according to vignette content. There were significant negative correlations between assessment of conscious state and years of nursing experience and assessment of respiratory rate and years of emergency nursing experience. Level of postgraduate qualification did not influence selection of parameters for reassessment.

Conclusion

Emergency nurses are tailoring vital sign assessment to patients’ clinical status, and nurses are integrating known vital sign data into vital sign decision‐making.

Relevance to clinical practice

Accurate assessment and interpretation of vital sign data is fundamental to patient safety. Emergency nurses are responsible for the initial and ongoing assessment of undiagnosed or undifferentiated patients. Prior to medical assessment, emergency nurses are solely responsible for patient assessment, escalation of care and implementation of interventions within nursing scope of practice.
The effectiveness of nurse education and training for clinical alarm response and management: a systematic review
Authors: Yue Liqing , Plummer Virginia , Cross Wendy
Published: September 2016

Aims and objectives

To identify the effectiveness of education interventions provided for nurses for clinical alarm response and management.

Background

Some education has been undertaken to improve clinical alarm response, but the evidence for evaluating effectiveness for nurse education interventions is limited.

Design

Systematic review.

Methods

A systematic review of experimental studies published in English from 2005–2015 was conducted in four computerised databases (MEDLINE,EMBASE,CINAHLand Scopus). After identification, screening and appraisal using Joanna Briggs Institute instruments, quality research papers were selected, data extraction and analysis followed.

Results

Five studies met the inclusion criteria for alarm response and no articles were concerned with clinical alarm education for management. All had different types and methods of interventions and statistical pooling was not possible. Response accuracy, response time and perceptions were consistent when different interventions were adopted. A positive effect was identified when learning about general alarms, single alarms, sequential alarms and medium‐level alarms for learning as the primary task. Nurses who were musically trained had a faster and more accurate alarm response. Simulation interventions had a positive effect, but the effect of education provided in the care unit was greater. Overall, clinical alarm awareness was improved through education activities.

Conclusions

Nurses are the main users of healthcare alarms and work in complex environments with high numbers of alarms, including nuisance alarms and other factors. Alarm‐related adverse events are common. The findings of a small number of experimental studies with diverse evidence included consideration of various factors when formulating education strategies. The factors which influence effectiveness of nurse education are nurse demographics, nurse participants with musical training, workload and characteristics of alarms. Education interventions based in clinical practice settings increase education effectiveness, although simulation can be effective. No study shows any type of intervention results in sustained improvement.

Relevance to clinical practice

There are workload implications in education and the matching of load, number and type of alarms with nurse demographics which should be evaluated. There also needs to be a connection between education and the clinical setting to contribute to clinical alarm awareness for undergraduate nurses and practicing nurses. Education solely supported by employers is insufficient. Patient safety and long‐term effects must be further explored.
Who Experiences Leisure Deficits? Mothers' Marital Status and Leisure Time
Authors: Passias Emily J. , Sayer Liana , Pepin Joanna R.
Published: September 2016

The authors used the 2003 to 2012 American Time Use Survey to examine marital status variation in mothers' leisure time. They found that never‐married mothers have more total leisure but less high‐quality leisure when compared with married mothers. Never‐married mothers' leisure is concentrated in passive and socially isolated activities that offer fewer social and health benefits. Black single mothers have the highest amount of socially isolated leisure, particularly watching television alone. Results suggest that differences in the context and type of leisure are salient dimensions of the divergent and stratified life conditions of married, divorced, and single mothers.
Do Shadow Banks Create Money? ‘Financialisation’ and the Monetary Circuit
Authors: Michell Jo
Published: September 2016

The rise of the shadow banking system is viewed through the theoretical lens of Graziani's Monetary Theory of Production. Graziani's categories of ‘initial finance’ and ‘final finance’ are used to analyse the new forms of credit created in the shadow banking sector. It is argued that the accumulation of leverage in the shadow banking system and the creation of credit money by the traditional banking sector are symbiotic processes. While Graziani's triangular debtor‐bank‐creditor relationship remains central, the circuit operates in a perverse form in which household debt is stored on the balance sheets of shadow banks, allowing the banking system to break the historical connection between money creation and productive activity.
Fusion of Photogrammetry and Video Analysis for Productivity Assessment of Earthwork Processes
Authors: Bügler M. , Borrmann A. , Ogunmakin G. , Vela P. A. , Teizer J.
Published: September 2016

The high complexity of modern large‐scale construction projects leads their schedules to be sensitive to delays. At underground construction sites, the earthwork processes are vital, as most of the following tasks depend on them. This article presents a method for estimating the productivity of soil removal by combining two technologies based on computer vision: photogrammetry and video analysis. Photogrammetry is applied to create a time series of point clouds throughout excavation, which are used to measure the volume of the excavated soil for daily estimates of productivity. Video analysis is used to generate statistics regarding the construction activities for estimating productivity at finer time scales, when combined with the output from the photogrammetry pipeline. As there may be multiple causes for specific productivity levels, the automated generation of progress and activity statistics from both measurement methods supports interpretation of the productivity estimates. Comparison to annotated ground truth for the tracking and activity monitoring method highlights the reliability of the extracted information. The suitability of the approach is demonstrated by two case studies of real‐world urban excavation projects.
The nation‐state in its state‐istics (Belgium, 1846–1947)
Authors: Louckx Kaat
Published: September 2016

Statistics are, as the etymology of the term suggests (state‐istics), intimately connected with the construction or administration of the nation‐state. This paper addresses the genesis and development of the nation‐state by studying one of the main instruments that states use to ‘embrace’ their populations, viz. population statistics. More particularly, the paper presents a critical analysis of the conceptual and ‘scientific’ representations of modes of belonging to the nation‐state as produced in the Belgian (Queteletian) population censuses from the mid‐nineteenth until the mid‐twentieth century. It is shown how the analyses of the statisticians' interests, techniques and classification schemes shed light on the various ways in which inclusion in, or exclusion from, the Belgian nation‐state have been articulated in its population censuses. It is argued that these shifting interests and classification schemes also inform us about the construction and administration of the contemporary nation‐state.
Neonatal Bartter syndrome with cholelithiasis and hydrocephalus: Rare association
Authors: Özdemir Özmert MA , Çıralı Ceren , Yılmaz Ağladıoğlu Sebahat , Evrengül Havva , Tepeli Emre , Ergin Hacer
Published: September 2016

Neonatal Bartter syndrome (NBS) is a rare autosomal recessive renal tubular disorder. This disease is characterized by hypokalemia, hypochloremia, and metabolic alkalosis that is often associated with failure to thrive and recurrent episodes of dehydration. The combination of BS and cholelithiasis in an infant is very rare. Herein, we report a premature male infant with NBS who developed cholelithiasis and hydrocephalus on clinical follow up. We recommend that periodic routine hepatobiliary ultrasonograpic screening for cholelithiasis should be performed in patients with NBS.
Ecthyma gangrenosum in an infant after liver transplantation
Authors: Hizli Şamil , Işikay Sedat , Arikan Çiğdem
Published: September 2016

Ecthyma gangrenosum is a rare, necrotizing, bacterial infection of the skin most commonly caused by Pseudomonas aeruginosa. It has a characteristic clinical picture starting with maculopapular eruption followed by hemorrhagic vesicle and evolving into gangrenous ulcer. Although direct skin inoculation without septicemia is also probable, usually ecthyma gangrenosum is pathognomonic for Pseudomonas septicemia, which has a mortality rate of 38–96%. Herein, we report on the case of a 9‐month‐old male infant diagnosed with ecthyma gangrenosum who had undergone liver transplantation approximately 6 months previously and who was under immunosuppressive treatment, in order to highlight the importance of the early diagnosis and treatment of this disease.
Preoperative risk factors for intra‐operative bleeding in pediatric liver transplantation
Authors: Fanna Martina , Baptiste Amandine , Capito Carmen , Ortego Rocio , Pacifico Raffaella , Lesage Fabrice , Moulin Florence , Debray Dominique , Sissaoui Samira , Girard Muriel , Lacaille Florence , Telion Caroline , Elie Caroline , Aigrain Yves , Chardot Christophe
Published: September 2016

This study analyzes the preoperative risk factors for intra‐operative bleeding in our recent series of pediatric LTs. Between November 2009 and November 2014, 84 consecutive isolated pediatric LTs were performed in 81 children. Potential preoperative predictive factors for bleeding, amount of intra‐operative transfusions, postoperative course, and outcome were recorded. Cutoff point for intra‐operative HBL was defined as intra‐operative RBC transfusions ≥1 TBV. Twenty‐six patients (31%) had intra‐operative HBL. One‐year patient survival after LT was 66.7% (CI 95%=[50.2–88.5]) in HBL patients and 83.8% (CI 95%=[74.6–94.1]) in the others (P=.054). Among 13 potential preoperative risk factors, three of them were identified as independent predictors of high intra‐operative bleeding: abdominal surgical procedure(s) prior to LT, factor V level ≤30% before transplantation, and ex situ parenchymal transsection of the liver graft. Based on these findings, we propose a simple score to predict the individual hemorrhagic risk related to each patient and graft association. This score may help to better anticipate intra‐operative bleeding and improve patient's management.
The influence of restoration efforts in the freshwater Everglades on the salinity regime of Florida Bay
Authors: Marshall Frank E.
Published: September 2016

Florida Bay is a subtropical estuary in Everglades National Park with a salinity regime that is hydrology‐dependent but also affected by Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic Ocean coastal connections, wind forcing, and geophysical factors. In South Florida significant changes have been made to the regional hydrology including water diversions out of the historical Everglades. This has reduced freshwater flows and levels in the upstream wetlands and increased salinity in Florida Bay thereby negatively impacting this coastal ecosystem. Because Florida Bay salinity is sufficiently correlated with upstream freshwater wetland stage, tide elevation, and wind vectors, statistical (multiple‐variable linear regression) salinity models were developed from observed data. These models were then used to simulate the salinity variability in Florida Bay resulting from implementation of seven Everglades hydrologic restoration alternatives, including two natural landscape scenarios. Salinity reductions were compared to existing conditions regionally and Bay‐wide. For all modeled restoration scenarios in all regions of the Bay, mean salinity was reduced 1–3 psu compared to exiting conditions. The statistical significance of the salinity reductions was evaluated using 95% confidence intervals for the simulated mean, and all reductions were statistically significant. Even though the reduced salinities resulting from each of the restoration alternatives are important ecosystem improvements to Florida Bay, the reductions were not enough to fully meet the established restoration salinity targets for the Bay.
Effect of Cortical Screw Diameter on Reduction and Stabilization of Type III Distal Phalanx Fractures: An Equine Cadaveric Study
Authors: Kay Alastair T. , Durgam Sushmitha , Stewart Matthew , Joslyn Stephen , Schaeffer David J. , Horn Gavin , Kesler Richard , Chew Peter
Published: September 2016

Objective

To compare reduction of type III distal phalangeal fractures using 4.5 and 5.5 mm cortical screws placed in lag fashion and an intact hoof capsule model.

Study Design

Cadaveric experimental study.

Sample Population: Hooves from 12 adult horses (n=24).

Methods

Sagittal fractures were created in pairs of distal phalanges after distal interphalangeal joint disarticulation and were reduced with either 4.5 or 5.5 mm cortical screws placed in lag fashion. Contralateral phalanges served as non‐reduced controls. Fracture reduction following screw placement was assessed by comparing pre‐reduction and post‐reduction fracture gap measurements from radiographs using paired t‐tests. Effects of incremental loading (0, 135, 270, 540, 800, 1070, and 1335 kg) on fracture gaps in 6 phalanges reduced with 4.5 mm screws and 5 phalanges reduced with 5.5 mm screws were measured from fluoroscopic images and assessed by 2‐way ANOVA. Significance was set at P<.05.

Results

Type III distal phalanx fractures were reliably created. Only 5.5 mm cortical screws, not 4.5 mm screws, significantly reduced fracture gaps and constrained fracture gap expansion 3 cm distal to the articular surface. Compressive loading closed the fracture gaps at the articular surface in both non‐reduced control groups and those reduced with either 5.5 or 4.5 mm screws.

Conclusion

The 5.5 mm cortical screws were more effective than 4.5 mm screws in reducing type III distal phalanx fractures and restricting distal fracture gap expansion under load.
Transdiaphragmatic Approach to Attenuate Porto‐Azygos Shunts Inserting in the Thorax
Authors: Or Matan , Kitshoff Adriaan , Devriendt Nausikaa , De Ridder Marianne , Quist‐Rybachuk Galena , de Rooster Hilde
Published: September 2016

Objective

To describe the surgical technique and document the application of a transdiaphragmatic approach to attenuate porto‐azygos shunts inserting in the thoracic section of the azygos vein.

Study Design

Cadaveric study and prospective case series.

Animals

Canine cadavers (n=6) and client‐owned dogs with porto‐azygos shunts inserting in the thoracic section of the azygos vein (n=9).

Methods

In the cadavers, the azygos vein was filled with aqueous latex. Landmarks were established for creating a safe transdiaphragmatic approach to the caudal intrathoracic portion of the azygos vein. In the clinical cases, porto‐azygos communication was diagnosed by trans‐splenic portal scintigraphy. All shunts were attenuated close to their insertion site via ventral midline celiotomy and a transdiaphragmatic approach to the shunt. Perioperative complications were recorded.

Results

A 3–5 cm incision, 0.5–1 cm ventral and lateral to the level of the aortic hiatus, was made in the pars lumbalis part of the diaphragm. Stay sutures at both sides of the diaphragmatic incision were placed to open up the incision and a retractor was used to push the esophagus away from the aorta. Intrathoracic insertion of the shunt was confirmed intraoperative. Exposure of the shunt insertion site at the azygos vein was excellent in all clinical cases. No intraoperative or postoperative complications were encountered.

Conclusion

If thoracic attenuation of a porto‐azygos shunt is considered, a transdiaphragmatic approach exposes the insertion site for shunt attenuation. This approach is straightforward, without unnecessary abdominal organ manipulation, and since attenuates at the insertion, avoids missing additional contributing branches.
Effect of Dose on Intra‐Articular Amikacin Sulfate Concentrations Following Intravenous Regional Limb Perfusion in Horses
Authors: Harvey Alison , Kilcoyne Isabelle , Byrne Barbara A. , Nieto Jorge
Published: September 2016

Objective

To compare synovial concentrations of amikacin following intravenous regional limb perfusion (IVRLP) with two different doses, and to compare their ability to reach target concentrations for bacterial isolates from common orthopedic conditions.

Study Design

Randomized crossover experiment.

Animals

Six adult horses.

Methods

Horses received IVRLP with 2 and 3 g of amikacin in the cephalic vein of alternate limbs (20 minutes tourniquet application and ≥14 days washout period). Amikacin concentrations were quantified in synovial fluid collected from the middle carpal and metacarpophalangeal joints at 25 minutes, and 24, 36, and 48 hours after IVRLP. Minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) were determined from equine bacterial isolates and ability to reach target amikacin concentrations were compared.

Results

Overall, middle carpal joint amikacin concentrations were higher following IVRLP with 3 g amikacin compared to 2 g (P=.031), with significant differences at 25 minutes (P=.002) and 24 hours (P=.021). No differences were observed between doses in the metacarpophalangeal joint (P=.267). Target amikacin concentrations for Staphylococcus aureus and coagulase‐negative staphylococci were achieved in middle carpal and metacarpophalangeal joints at 25 minutes with both dosages and for Escherichia coli and Actinobacillus spp. in the middle carpal joint at 25 minutes with 3 g. Target concentrations were not achieved for Enterococcus spp, Pseudomonas spp, or Streptococcus equi ssp. zooepidemicus.

Conclusion

A 3 g amikacin dose is not justified in the majority of distal limb injuries, but should be reserved for isolates with an MIC higher than that achievable with a 2 g dose. Daily IVRLP may be necessary based on our results.
Allelopathic potential of indigenous Bangladeshi rice varieties
Authors: Masum Sheikh M. , Hossain Mohammad Amzad , Akamine Hikaru , Sakagami Jun‐Ichi , Bhowmik Prasanta C.
Published: September 2016

A series of experiments was conducted in the laboratory and greenhouse of the Subtropical Field Science Center, University of the Ryukyus, Japan, from April to October 2015 to assess the allelopathic potential of 50 indigenous Bangladeshi rice varieties by using the donor–receiver bioassay, equal compartment agar method (ECAM), plant residue extract method and pot culture method. Lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.), cress (Lepidium sativum L.), radish (Raphanus sativus L.), barnyard grass (Echinochloa crus‐galli L. Beauv.) and jungle rice (Echinochloa colona L.) were used as the test plants. The highest inhibition effect was given by Boterswar, while the stimulating effect was given by Kartikbalam and Panbira in the donor–receiver bioassay and ECAM tests. Boterswar, Goria, Biron and Kartiksail were selected as the highest allelopathic‐potential varieties by the donor–receiver bioassay and ECAM. In the methanol extract test, Boterswar gave the strongest inhibitory effect on both barnyard grass and jungle rice, while Kartiksail gave the highest inhibitory effect on the jungle rice shoot. The growth parameters and total dry matter of barnyard grass in the greenhouse pot experiment were significantly reduced as a result of the application of aqueous extracts of the selected rice varieties, which was similar to the results of the laboratory experiments. The varieties of Boterswar, Goria, Biron and Kartiksail were selected as the most allelopathic among the 50 indigenous Bangladeshi rice varieties. These rice varieties could be used for the isolation and identification of allelochemicals and to further develop new varieties that are tolerant to weeds.
Hyperbaric oxygen therapy promotes wound repair in ischemic and hyperglycemic conditions, increasing tissue perfusion and collagen deposition
Authors: André‐Lévigne Dominik , Modarressi Ali , Pignel Rodrigue , Bochaton‐Piallat Marie‐Luce , Pittet‐Cuénod Brigitte
Published: September 2016

The treatment of chronic wounds remains inconsistent and empirical. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is a promising method to improve wound repair but there is still a lack of understanding of its mechanisms of action and its indications are not yet clearly defined. We studied the effects of HBOT in four different wound conditions by inflicting bilateral wounds on the dorsal aspect of the feet of nonischemic or ischemic limbs in normoglycemic or hyperglycemic rats. To create an ischemic condition, arterial resection was performed unilaterally. Forty‐four animals received HBOT five times a week until complete wound closure. Wound repair was compared with 44 rats receiving standard dressing only. HBOT increased blood flow and accelerated wound closure in ischemic and hyperglycemic wounds, most significantly when the two conditions were combined. Wound contraction and reepithelialization were similarly stimulated by HBOT. The acceleration of wound contraction was not associated with increased myofibroblasts expression, nor fibroblast recruitment or higher cell count in the granulation tissue. Of note, we observed a significant increase in collagen deposition in early time points in ischemic wounds receiving HBOT. This data emphasizes that an early application of HBOT might be crucial to its efficacy. We concluded that wounds where ischemia and hyperglycemia are combined, as it is often the case in diabetic patients, have the best chance to benefit from HBOT.
Biodegradable and plasma‐treated electrospun scaffolds coated with recombinant Olfactomedin‐like 3 for accelerating wound healing and tissue regeneration
Authors: Dunn Louise L. , de Valence Sarra , Tille Jean‐Christophe , Hammel Philippe , Walpoth Beat H. , Stocker Roland , Imhof Beat A. , Miljkovic‐Licina Marijana
Published: September 2016

Three‐dimensional biomimetic scaffolds resembling the native extracellular matrix (ECM) are widely used in tissue engineering, however they often lack optimal bioactive cues needed for acceleration of cell proliferation, neovascularization, and tissue regeneration. In this study, the use of the ECM‐related protein Olfactomedin‐like 3 (Olfml3) demonstrates the importance and feasibility of fabricating efficient bioactive scaffolds without in vitro cell seeding prior to in vivo implantation. First, in vivo proangiogenic properties of Olfml3 were shown in a murine wound healing model by accelerated wound closure and a 1.4‐fold increase in wound vascularity. Second, subcutaneous implantation of tubular scaffolds coated with recombinant Olfml3 resulted in enhanced cell in‐growth and neovascularization compared with control scaffolds. Together, our data indicates the potential of Olfml3 to accelerate neovascularization during tissue regeneration by promoting endothelial cell proliferation and migration. This study provides a promising concept for the reconstruction of damaged tissue using affordable and effective bioactive scaffolds.