bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A case report: Glycopyrrolate for treatment of exercise-induced hyperhidrosis
Authors: Negaard Matthew , Anthony Christopher , Bonthius Daniel , Jepson Matthew , Marcussen Britt , Pelzer Daniel , Peterson Andrew
Published: August 2017

Objective:

Hyperhidrosis can cause dehydration and exercise intolerance. There are several case reports of extremely high sweat rates in athletes. We present as case report of a 17-year-old male with the highest sweat rate recorded in the literature (5.8 L/h). Our goal was to determine if glycopyrrolate, an anticholinergic medication with primarily anti-muscarinic effects that is known to decrease sweat production, would reduce the sweat rate of our subject in a controlled exercise setting.

Methods:

Our patient and a control subject were subjected to an exercise protocol consisting of running on a treadmill (5.4–6.7 mile/h at 1° of incline) in a warm climate-controlled chamber after receiving 0, 2, or 4 mg of glycopyrrolate. Core temperature, heart rate, rater of perceived exertion, and sweat rate were monitored in both subjects.

Results:

Glycopyrrolate dose was not significantly correlated with decreased sweat rate and maximal core temperature. However, the clinical effect of reducing the sweat rate was very strong. The improvement of the subject’s sweat rate allowed him to successfully return to sport.

Conclusion:

Our findings suggest that low-dose glycopyrrolate may be a safe and effective method of controlling exertional hyperhidrosis.
Suprapubic varicose vein formation during pregnancy following pre-pregnancy pelvic vein embolisation with coils, without any residual pelvic venous reflux or obstruction
Authors: Dabbs Emma , Nemchand Jaya L , Whiteley Mark S
Published: August 2017

Suprapubic varicose veins are usually indicative of unilateral iliac vein occlusion and venous collateralisation. We report two cases of suprapubic varicose veins following pelvic vein embolisation and subsequent pregnancy; both presented without residual pelvic venous reflux or pelvic venous obstruction. In both cases, there was no significant flow in the suprapubic veins indicating that they were not acting as a collateral post-pregnancy. One patient had this venous abnormality treated successfully with TRansluminal Occlusion of Perforators, followed by foam sclerotherapy to the main part of the suprapubic vein. This patient has since completed the reminder of her lower limb varicose vein treatment. We suggest that pregnancy may have caused prolonged intermittent compression of the left common iliac vein, and that this, together with the physiological impact of previous embolisation procedures, obstructed venous drainage from the left leg resulting in collateral vein formation within the 9-month gestation period.
Promoting nursing competence in municipal healthcare services: An interview study of experienced nurses’ perceptions
Authors: Glad Tone , Olsen Trude Høgvold , Clancy Anne
Published: August 2017

The purpose of this study was to explore factors in the municipal workplace environment that can facilitate experienced nurses in promoting their professional competence. This is of particular importance when critically ill patients are discharged from hospital. We interviewed nine nurses who had more than five years’ experience in the Norwegian municipal healthcare services and analysed data using qualitative content analysis. We found that the informants have to cope with situations for which they have not been adequately prepared. Two factors in their workplace environment influenced the promotion of their professional competence in such situations: access to knowledge and information, and supportive collegial relationships. Experienced nurses are an important resource for information and support. However, the findings also suggest that nurses at all levels of competence are dependent on working environments that promote a high standard of nursing.
An Inspection Tool and Process to Identify Modifiable Aspects of Acute Care Hospital Patient Care Units to Prevent Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders
Authors: Grant Michael P. , Okechukwu Cassandra A. , Hopcia Karen , Sorensen Glorian , Dennerlein Jack T.
Published: August 2017

A dearth of practical resources is available for evaluating ergonomic risk factors in dynamic health care work environments. Of particular need are tools for inspecting patient care environments for hazards. The goal of this study was to describe the development and application of an inspection tool and a process for identifying hazards inherent in the modifiable aspects of the physical environment to reduce injury risk to hospital workers. Through an iterative and participatory process, the tool and inspection process were developed with three purposes in mind: (a) create a framework for the inspection of physical work environments and physical conditions of work associated with injury risk (hazards), (b) document the physical conditions, and (c) provide feedback to decision makers. The tool and process were used by an ergonomics researcher on four patient care units as part of the Be Well, Work Well Total Worker Health® intervention. The resulting inspection process provided a structured method for recognizing hazards in the dynamic modifiable physical work environment and reporting both observations and recommendations to decision makers. The development and implementation of the inspection tool provided guidance to modify the physical work environment by implementing ergonomic solutions. The tool allowed the organization to plan and prioritize ergonomic hazard abatement (e.g. resource allocation and tracking trends). Within a Total Worker Health® framework, this tool can measure work practices which can then be used to inform organizational programs and policies within a health care setting.
Performance and Return to Sport After Clavicle Open Reduction and Internal Fixation in National Football League Players
Authors: Jack Robert A. , Sochacki Kyle R. , Navarro Sergio M. , McCulloch Patrick C. , Lintner David M. , Harris Joshua D.
Published: August 2017

Background:

Clavicle fractures are common injuries in professional football. Surgical fixation of these injuries may lead to decreased nonunion rates, improved shoulder strength, and decreased residual functional impairment.

Purpose:

To determine (1) return-to-sport (RTS) rate in National Football League (NFL) players after clavicle fracture open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF), (2) postoperative career length and games per season, (3) pre- and postoperative performance, and (4) postoperative performance compared with control players matched by position, age, years of experience, and performance.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Publicly available records were used to identify players who underwent surgical treatment of a clavicle fracture while playing in the NFL. Demographic and performance data were collected for each player, and matched controls were identified. Control and case performance scores were calculated using a standardized scoring system. RTS was defined as playing in 1 NFL game after surgery. Comparisons between case and control groups at preoperative and postoperative time points were made using paired-samples Student t tests.

Results:

Seventeen surgeries (16 players) were analyzed. Fifteen players (94.1%) were able to RTS in the NFL at a mean 211.3 ± 144.7 days postsurgery; 7 (44%) returned within the same season as their injury and subsequent fixation. The overall rate of a player’s remaining in the NFL 1 year after surgery was 88.2%. Players who underwent surgery played in a similar number of games per season and had similar career lengths in the NFL as controls ( P > .05). There were no significant ( P > .05) differences between cases and matched controls presurgery and preindex. There was no difference ( P > .05) in postoperative performance scores or games per season compared with preoperative scores or games per season for any position. Quarterbacks (n = 3, P = .049) and running backs (n = 5, P = .039) had significantly worse postoperative performance scores when compared with postindex matched controls.

Conclusion:

There is a high rate of RTS in the NFL after clavicle fracture ORIF. Players who underwent clavicle fracture ORIF played in a similar number of games per season and had similar career lengths in the NFL as controls. Quarterbacks and running backs had significantly worse postoperative performance scores when compared with postindex matched controls.
Gold to aurostibite transformation and formation of Au-Ag-Sb
phases: the Krásná Hora deposit, Czech Republic
Authors: Zachariáš Jiří , Němec Matěj
Published: August 2017

Rare phases of the Au–Ag–Sb system were recognized in the Krásná Hora Sb-Au
deposit (Sb 1.5–3 wt.%; Au 3–5 ppm), Czech Republic which correspond to
auriferous dyscrasite (up to 7 at.% Au), auriferous allargentum (up to 34
at.% Au), and an unnamed phase with composition similar to the eutectics
(E1, E2) of the experimental Au–Ag–Sb system. The dominant ore mineral is
stibnite with rare native antimony, native gold and a Ag-Au alloy. Textural
relationships are well established: stibnite (early) →gold → aurostibite →
native antimony (late). Gold is present in four generations: Au-1 (0–15 at.%
Ag) is the most abundant type; Au-2 (20–70 at.% Ag) forms thin rims along
intra-grain boundaries of Au-1; Au-3 and Au-4 are rare and almost pure (∼0
at.% Ag). The formationof most of the Au-2 and of Au-Ag-Sb phases is
associated with Ag-mobilization coupled with the Au-1 to aurostibite
transformation via dissolution-precipitation and solid-state diffusion
processes at temperatures <200°C.
New arsenate minerals from the Arsenatnaya fumarole, Tolbachik
volcano, Kamchatka, Russia. VII. Pharmazincite, KZnAsO4
Authors: Pekov Igor V. , Yapaskurt Vasiliy O. , Belakovskiy Dmitry I. , Vigasina Marina F. , Zubkova Natalia V. , Sidorov Evgeny G.
Published: August 2017

The new mineral pharmazincite, KZnAsO4, was found in sublimates
of the Arsenatnaya fumarole at the Second scoria cone of the Northern
Breakthrough of the Great Tolbachik Fissure Eruption, Tolbachik volcano,
Kamchatka, Russia. It is closely associated with shchurovskyite,
dmisokolovite, bradaczekite, arsmirandite, tilasite, johillerite, tenorite,
hematite, aphthitalite and As-bearing orthoclase. Pharmazincite occurs as
prismatic to acicular crystals up to 1 mm long and up to 0.03 mm thick
typically combined in near parallel, radial or chaotic intergrowths,
open-work aggregates or crusts up to 2 mm across. Pharmazincite is
colourless to white, transparent, with a vitreous lustre. It is brittle,
with a stepped fracture and a perfect cleavage parallel to [001].
Dcalc is 4.75 g cm–3. Pharmazincite is optically
uniaxial (–),ω = 1.649(2), ε = 1.642(2). The Raman spectrum is reported. The
chemical composition (wt.%, electron-microprobe data) is: K2O
18.98, CaO 0.14, MgO 1.20, CuO 4.41, ZnO 27.58, Fe2O3
0.15, P2O5 0.50, As2O546.67,
total 99.63. The empirical formula, calculated based on 4 O apfu, is:
(K0.97Ca0.01)∑0.98(Zn0.82Cu0.13Mg0.07Fe0.013+)∑1.03(As0.98P0.02)∑1.00O4.The
strongest reflections of the powder X-ray diffraction pattern
[d,Å(I)(hkl)] are:
6.36 (28)(111), 4.64(45)(220), 4.35(48)(002), 3.260(36)(411),
3.179(100)(222), 2.770(26)(113), 2.676(77)(600), 2.278(15)(602) and
1.710(15)(713, 115). Pharmazincite is hexagonal, a =
18.501(4), c = 8.7114(9) Å, V = 2582.4(8)
Å3 and Z = 24 (single-crystal XRD data). Its
space group is P63, by analogy with synthetic
KZnAsO4 that has a crystal structure based upon a tetrahedral
tridymite-type{ZnAsO4}– framework. It is isostructural with
megakalsilite KAlSiO4. The new mineral is named for its chemical
constituents.
An application of the Rietveld refinement method to the mineralogy of a bauxite-bearing regolith in the Lower Amazon
Authors: Negrão Leonardo Boiadeiro Ayres , Costa Marcondes Lima da , Pöllmann Herbert , Horn Axel
Published: August 2017

A comparison of Rietveld refinement results for a bauxite-bearing regolith and its clayey cover in the Amazon region was made with stoichiometric calculations from chemical analysis and partly from thermogravimetric results. For this investigation a profile in the bauxite-bearing regolith occurrence in the ALCOA bauxite mine at Juruti, Brazil was studied. The different minerals, their compositions and their low crystallinity in the different horizons were investigated and the contents determined. It is evident that some minerals show several generations and some chemical composition changes that must be included in the Rietveld refinement. Al-rich hematites and goethites are common along the bauxite profile. Amorphous contents were determined with rutile added as an internal standard and shown to have gibbsite- or kaolinite-like composition. The minerals could be quantified in the different horizons and the difficulties were mainly related to variable crystalline aspects of the phases. Rietveld refinement can be a powerful tool in bauxite prospecting, quality control and during mining and beneficiation of ore minerals using the adapted refinement strategies.
The promises and challenges of using gene mutations for patient stratification in follicular lymphoma
Authors: Weigert Oliver , Weinstock David M.
Published: August 2017

Follicular lymphoma (FL) is a clinically and molecularly highly heterogeneous disease. Most patients achieve long-lasting remissions and have excellent overall survival (OS) with current treatment. However, ∼20% of patients have early progression of disease and short OS. At present, therapies are not guided by individual risk or disease biology. Reliable tools for patient stratification are urgently needed to avoid overtreatment of low-risk patients and to prioritize alternative approaches in high-risk patients. A rapidly expanding repertoire of promising therapeutic options is available for clinical evaluation; however, the numbers of patients with FL and the resources to conduct adequately powered trials are limited. Recent studies have shown that gene mutations can serve as prognostic and/or predictive biomarkers, in particular when integrated into composite risk models. Before translating these findings into routine clinical practice, however, several challenges loom. We review aspects of “clinicogenetic” risk model development and validation that apply to FL and more generally to other cancers. Finally, we propose a crowdsourcing effort that could expedite the development, validation, refinement, and selection of risk models. A new era of collaboration and harmonization is required if we hope to transition from empiric selection of therapeutics to risk-based, biology-guided treatment of patients with FL.
Dealing with the death of a long term patient; what is the impact and how do podiatrists cope?
Authors: Robson Kristy , Williams Cylie M
Published: August 2017

Background

It is common for podiatrists and patients to develop long term professional relationships. Patient's decline in health or death may impact a practitioner's mental wellbeing. This research aimed to understand the impact of long term patient death on podiatrists and identify coping strategies.

Method

Australian podiatrists were eligible to participate if they had been practicing longer than 5 years and experienced the death of a long term patient in the previous 12 months. Individual semi‐structured interviews were conducted with podiatrists and were audio‐recorded, transcribed verbatim and individually analysed to identify key themes. Interpretative phenomenological analysis was used to explore the perceptions of podiatrists on the personal and professional impact following the death of a long term patient.

Results

Fifteen podiatrists (11 female) with a median of 15 (range 8–50) years' experience participated.

Three major themes emerged: acknowledging connections, willing to share and listen, and creating support through starting the conversation. Participants indicated importance in recognition of the emotional influence of professional‐patient relationships. They also discussed the importance of debriefing about death with the right person, which was most commonly colleagues. Participants talked about the emotional impact of death, suggesting the need for supporting discussion and resources, especially for new graduates.

Conclusion

Death and dying can be an emotive topic and one which podiatrists may not be prepared for, yet likely to have to deal with throughout their career. These findings enable a better understanding of the impact of patient death and provide possible future directions for the profession to better support podiatrists in this area.
Profiling of cardio‐metabolic risk factors and medication utilisation among Type II diabetes patients in Ghana: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Adua Eric , Roberts Peter , Sakyi Samuel Asamoah , Yeboah Francis Agyemang , Dompreh Albert , Frimpong Kwasi , Anto Enoch Odame , Wang Wei
Published: August 2017

Background

Type II diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is complicated by multiple cardio‐metabolic risk factors. Controlling these factors requires lifestyle modifications alongside utilisation of anti‐diabetic medications. Different glucose lowering [(biguanides (BIGs), sulfonylureas (SUAs), thiazolidinediones (TNZ)], lipid lowering (statins), and anti‐hypertensive medicines [angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs), calcium channel blockers (CCBs), angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) and central acting drugs (CADs)] have been approved for controlling hyperglycaemia, dyslipidaemia and hypertension respectively. Here, we examined factors that characterise T2DM and explored the response to medication therapy among T2DM patients.

Methods

This prospective cohort study recruited 241 T2DM patients reporting at a clinic in Ghana, from January through to August, 2016. Each patient's demographic, medications and anthropometric data was obtained while information on medication adherence was captured using Morisky adherence scale‐8 (MMAS‐8). Fasting blood samples were collected for biochemical analysis.

Results

The mean age of participants was 57.82 years for baseline and six‐month follow‐up. Physical activity differed at baseline and follow up (p < 0.05) but not body mass index (BMI). BIG alone, or in combination with SUA and TNZ did not improve glycaemic status at follow up (p > 0.05). Many participants using either ACEI or ARB were able to control their blood pressures. Among dyslipidaemia patients under statin treatment, there was an improved lipid profile at follow‐up.

Conclusions

Statin medications are effective for reducing dyslipidaemia in T2DM patients. However, control of modifiable risk factors, particularly blood glucose and to a lesser degree blood pressure is suboptimal. Addressing these will require concomitant interventions including education on medication adherence and correct dietary plans, lifestyle modifications and physical activity.
An agent-based simulation of cooperation in the use of irrigation systems
Authors: Cai Jingjing , Xiong Hang
Published: August 2017

This study presents an agent-based simulation of the formation of cooperation in using irrigation. The simulation model is developed based on our understanding of the underlying mechanisms by which farmer households participate the cooperation. That is, a household first become a potential participant when the cost of cooperation it needs to sustain is not higher than the amount it can afford or is willing to pay; and on top of this, the propensity that the household participates is heavily affected by its personal characteristics and neighborhood effects. We use model to examine the impacts of initial participants and government support on both the reach and velocity of the cooperation diffusion. The model is calibrated to villages with successfully running Water User Association in central China. Our results show that government support plays a critical role but the initial participants do not matter much for different types of initial participants and network structure of the village.
Association of Pelvic and Para-Aortic Lymphadenectomy With Survival in Stage I Endometrioid Endometrial Cancer: Matched Cohort Analyses From the National Cancer Database
Authors: Seagle Brandon-Luke L. , Kocherginsky Masha , Shahabi Shohreh
Published: August 2017

Purpose

To estimate whether pelvic and para-aortic lymphadenectomy was associated with increased survival in stage I endometrioid endometrial cancer.

Methods

We performed matched cohort analyses of women with stage I endometrioid endometrial cancer who underwent hysterectomy with no lymphadenectomy, pelvic lymphadenectomy, or combined pelvic and para-aortic lymphadenectomy. Cox proportional hazards survival analyses were performed with inverse probability weights. Hazard ratios (HRs) were covariate and propensity score adjusted. Covariates included cancer center type, age, race, Hispanic ethnicity, insurance type, community median income quartile, comorbidity score, history of prior cancer, depth of myometrial invasion, tumor grade, tumor size, lymphovascular space invasion, cytology status, surgical margin status, hospital volume, and use of adjuvant radiotherapy or chemotherapy. Additional analyses included subset analyses by grade, sensitivity analyses with imputation of missing data, and testing for sensitivity to possible unmeasured confounding.

Results

Median (interquartile range [IQR]) lymph node counts were 0, 10 (5-15), and 20 (15-27) nodes in the no lymphadenectomy, pelvic, and combined pelvic and para-aortic lymphadenectomy–matched cohorts, respectively. Matched cohorts were well balanced. Two analyses were performed: no lymphadenectomy (n = 7,487) versus pelvic lymphadenectomy (n = 7,487), and pelvic lymphadenectomy (n = 7,060) versus combined pelvic and para-aortic lymphadenectomy (n = 7,060). Performance of pelvic lymphadenectomy was associated with increased survival compared with no lymphadenectomy (5-year survival [95% CI], 91.4% [90.2% to 92.6%] v 87.3% [85.9% to 88.8%]; HR, 0.71 [95% CI, 0.64 to 0.78]; P < .001). Addition of para-aortic lymphadenectomy was associated with increased survival compared with pelvic lymphadenectomy alone (5-year survival [95% CI], 91.0% [89.8% to 92.2%] v 89.8% [88.4% to 91.1%]; HR, 0.85 [95% CI, 0.77 to 0.95]; P = .003). Associations were robust to sensitivity analyses.

Conclusion

Lymphadenectomy was associated with increased survival in stage I endometrioid endometrial cancer. An adequately powered randomized trial is needed.
Distrust in the End-of-Life Care Provided to a Parent and Long-Term Negative Outcomes Among Bereaved Adolescents: A Population-Based Survey Study
Authors: Beernaert Kim , Kreicbergs Ulrika , Fürst Carl Johan , Nyberg Tommy , Steineck Gunnar , Bylund-Grenklo Tove
Published: August 2017

Purpose

Previous research shows that the death of a parent places children at risk for a number of negative outcomes. The role of trust in health care at the end of life has been acknowledged as crucial for patients and adult family members. However, the consequences of children’s distrust in the care provided to their parents remain unknown. Therefore, we investigated the negative long-term outcomes of cancer-bereaved sons’ and daughters’ distrust in the care that was provided to a dying parent.

Methods

We used a population-based nationwide survey to investigate self-reported distrust in the care provided and possible negative outcomes in 622 (73%) participants who had lost a parent as a result of cancer 6 to 9 years earlier, at ages 13 to 16 years. All participants were 18 years or older at the time of the survey.

Results

In those who reported no or little trust (ie, distrust) in the health care provided to their dying parents, we found statistically significantly higher risks of various negative outcomes at the time of survey: bitterness toward health care professionals for not having done everything that was possible (crude risk ratio [RR], 3.5; 95% CI, 2.3 to 5.1) and for having stopped treatment (RR, 3.4; 95% CI, 2.1 to 6.0), self-destructiveness (eg, self-injury [RR, 1.7; 95% CI, 1.2 to 2.4]), and psychological problems (eg, moderate to severe depression according to the Patient Health Questionnaire–9 [RR, 2.3; 95% CI, 1.5 to 3.5]).

Conclusion

In cancer-bereaved former adolescents, distrust in the health care provided to the dying parent is associated with a higher risk of negative long-term outcomes. The health care professionals involved in this care might play an important role in safeguarding the trust of adolescents.
Neuromuscular Monitoring in the Perioperative Period
Authors: Murphy Glenn S.
Published: August 2017

Neuromuscular monitoring devices were introduced into clinical practice in the 1970s. Qualitative neuromuscular monitors, or peripheral nerve stimulators, provide an electrical stimulus to a motor nerve and the response of corresponding muscle subjectively evaluated. A standard peripheral nerve stimulator provides several patterns of nerve stimulation, including train-of-four (TOF), double-burst, tetanic, and post-tetanic count. Qualitative (and quantitative) monitors are needed to determine onset of neuromuscular blockade, maintain the required depth of muscle relaxation during the surgical procedure, and assess an appropriate dose of reversal agent. However, absence of fade measured with a peripheral nerve stimulator does not exclude residual neuromuscular block; TOF ratios as low as 0.4-0.6 may be present when fade is no longer observed. In addition, the risk of incomplete neuromuscular recovery may be influenced by monitoring site. The adductor pollicis is more sensitive to the effects of neuromuscular blocking agents (compared to the muscles surrounding the eye), and monitoring at this site may more accurately reflect recovery of pharyngeal muscles (the last muscles to recover from the effects of neuromuscular blocking agents, in which dysfunction may persist even at a TOF ratio of 1.0). Quantitative monitors are devices that measure and quantify the degree of muscle weakness and display the results numerically. Several different technologies have been developed, including mechanomyography, electromyography, acceleromyography, kineograph, and phonomyography. Lower doses of anticholinesterases may be used to effectively reverse neuromuscular blockade at TOF ratios of 0.4-0.6; quantitative monitoring is required to determine that this level of neuromuscular recovery has occurred. As clinical tests of muscle strength, peripheral nerve stimulators are unable to determine whether full recovery of neuromuscular function is present at the end of the surgical procedure. The use of quantitative monitors is essential in excluding clinically important muscle weakness (TOF ratios <0.9 to 1.0) at the time of tracheal extubation.
Another Irish Antigone: Gendering Justice in Seamus Heaney'sThe Burial at Thebes
Authors: McGuire Matthew
Published: August 2017

The Burial at Thebes, Seamus Heaney's adaptation of Antigone, was first performed at the centenary celebrations of Dublin's Abbey Theatre in 2004. While reviewers read the play exclusively in the context of the post-911 “war on terror,” this essay relocates Heaney's play within the contemporary Irish context, in particular the end of the Northern Irish Troubles. In Heaney's hands, Antigone acts as a metaphor for one of the defining issues of the period: the problem of the past. Heaney is acutely interested in the way in which female voices have remained silenced and sidelined within mainstream debates about the legacy of the Troubles. Drawing on the work of Judith Butler and Bonnie Honig, this essay reads Heaney's play within a series of critical debates about representations of female victimhood, the role of women in transitional justice, and the ongoing importance of tragedy within the Irish literary imagination.
The War Machine as Chronotope: Temporality in Child-Soldier Fiction
Authors: Moynagh Maureen
Published: August 2017

This essay considers the child-soldier figure in contemporary African fiction as a vehicle for a critique of modernity as a particular time consciousness and of its attendant geopolitics. In the work of novelists Ahmadou Kourouma, Chris Abani, Abdourahman Waberi, and others, experiments in narrative temporality and an explicit negation of the temporality of Bildung represent the vexed relationship to futurity in those regions of the global South most disadvantaged by the long history of their entanglement with modernity. Yet, in these works, this turning away from the temporality of modernity instantiated in the Bildungsroman is not about turning away from futurity itself. Instead, the child-soldier figure yokes together a critical attention to the historical impediments to African futures with an insistence on the possibility of alternative futures.
Phosphorylation of SNAP-23 regulates its dynamic membrane association during Mast Cell exocytosis
Authors: Naskar Pieu , Puri Niti
Published: August 2017

Mast cells (MCs) on allergen challenge, respond by release of pre-stored mediators from their secretory granules by transient mechanism of porosome-mediated cell secretion. The target-SNARE SNAP-23 has been shown to be important for MC exocytosis and our previous studies revealed presence of one basal (Thr102) and two induced (Ser95 and Ser120) phosphorylation sites in its linker region. To study the role of SNAP-23 phosphorylation in the regulation of exocytosis, Green fluorescence protein-tagged wildtype SNAP-23 (GFP-SNAP-23) and its phosphorylation mutants were transfected into RBL-2H3 MCs. Studies on GFP-SNAP-23 transfected MCs revealed some dynamic changes in SNAP-23 membrane association. SNAP-23 was associated with plasma membrane in resting MCs, however on activation, a portion of it translocated to cytosol and internal membranes. These internal locations were secretory granule membranes. This dynamic change in the membrane association of SNAP-23 in MCs may be important for mediating internal granule-granule fusions in compound exocytosis. Further studies with SNAP-23 phosphorylation mutants revealed an important role for the phosphorylation at Thr102 in its initial, and of induced phosphorylation at Ser95 and Ser120 in its internal, membrane association, during MC exocytosis.
A peculiar mechanism of bite-force enhancement in lungless salamanders revealed by a new geometric method for modeling muscle moments
Authors: Deban Stephen M. , Richardson Jason C.
Published: August 2017

Desmognathine salamanders possess unusual morphological features for lungless salamanders that have been proposed to aid in burrowing and biting, including well-ossified jaws and skull and a pair of robust ligaments connecting the atlas to the mandible. We evaluated the function of these and other peculiar desmognathine cranial features in biting by examining the morphology, mechanics, and in-vivo biting performance of the large Desmognathus quadramaculatus. We estimated theoretical biting force using a novel geometric method that we describe. Results provide quantitative evidence to bolster earlier conclusions that the unsual atlanto-mandibular ligaments couple ventral head flexion, a unique desmognathine behavior, with biting performance. Our analysis also reveals that the ligaments not only transmit, but also amplify the force of head flexion when acting together with the unusual stalked occipital condyles, enlarged atlas, and massive quadratopectoralis muscles. The geometric model predicts that this mechanism contributes five times the biting force of the three jaw levator muscles combined and predicts maximum biting force in D. quadramaculatus matches or exceeds forces reported for similarly sized lizards. In-vivo biting performance we measured was several times greater in D. quadramaculatus than another plethodontid salamander, Pseudotriton ruber, which lacks the unusual morphology and mechanism of desmognathines. The effective biting mechanism of D. quadramaculatus we describe is an emergent property of many of the distinguishing morphological features of desmognathine salamanders and likely plays an important role in their natural history given that desmognathines use biting in feeding, defense, and even courtship.
Development of Stepwise-Field-Swept Solid-State NMR of Half-Integer Quadrupoles towards High Digital-Resolution NMR Spectra
Authors: Yamada Kazuhiko
Published: August 2017

Stepwise-field-swept solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) experiments, which potentially make it possible to achieve high digital-resolution NMR spectra, are presented using 79/81Br NMR of strontium bromide hydrate. In contrast to the conventional field-swept NMR in which magnetic fields are continuously varied while FID signals are accumulated, FID signals can be observed with a static magnetic field, and the magnetic fields are stepwise changed after each accumulation. Spectral simulations for the field-swept NMR spectra, calculated by a direct diagonalization method in which the Zeeman and quadrupolar Hamiltonians were numerically diagonalized to obtain transition probabilities, are also described. Improvements necessary to achieve high digital-resolution NMR spectra, including the stability of superconducting magnets and DC power supply sources that control the superconducting magnets in non-persistent mode, are briefly discussed.
Physical Signals May Affect Mesenchymal Stem Cell Differentiation via Epigenetic Controls
Authors: Rubin Janet , Styner Maya , Uzer Gunes
Published: August 2017

Marrow mesenchymal stem cells supply bone osteoblasts and adipocytes. Exercise effects to increase bone and decrease fat involve transfer of signals from the cytoplasm into the nucleus to regulate gene expression. We propose that exercise control of stem cell fate relies on structural connections that terminate in the nucleus and involve intranuclear actin structures that regulate epigenetic gene expression.
Insomnia: Promoting a good night's sleep
Authors: Swann Julie I
Published: August 2017

Patients and practitioners can suffer from sleep disturbances. When problems persist, they can affect a person physically and psychologically. Often, by addressing lifestyle and sleeping habits, sleep problems can be alleviated.
Adapting dialectical behaviour therapy for binge eating disorder: A pilot study
Authors: Kidd Aimee
Published: August 2017

Historically, binge eating disorder has not been treated within the Forth Valley Eating Disorder Service; these patients are often referred directly to weight management services, which can result in poor outcomes. The use of dialectical behaviour therapy for patients with binge eating disorder has developed recently and, as part of the Eating Disorder Service in Forth Valley, an adapted dialectical behaviour therapy treatment programme has been piloted prior to patients progressing on to the weight management service, to find out if an adapted dialectical behaviour therapy group can help patients with binge eating disorder reduce bingeing behaviour and improve quality of life.
The effect of chronic musculoskeletal pain on several quality of life dimensions: A critical review
Authors: Wittkopf Priscilla Geraldine , Zomkowski Kamilla , Cardoso Fernando Luiz , Sperandio Fabiana Flores
Published: August 2017

Background/Aims:

Chronic musculoskeletal pain can lead to disability and affect the emotional health of patients. The aim of this critical review was to analyse the relationship between chronic musculoskeletal pain and different quality of life dimensions.

Methods:

Electronic databases and reference lists were searched for chronic musculoskeletal pain and quality of life. Titles and abstracts were selected against inclusion criteria. Studies needed to evaluate chronic musculoskeletal pain, have a control group with healthy participants and use only validated instruments to assess pain and quality of life.

Findings:

Eleven studies were selected and analysed. The majority of studies (54.5%) evaluated fibromyalgia patients and 36% did not specify pain site or musculoskeletal condition. A small number of studies used specific instruments to assess musculoskeletal pain and quality of life. The number of painful areas seems to be related mostly with the emotional and social dimensions, whereas disease severity has more influence on physical and emotional dimensions. Pain chronicity is related to a negative effect on all quality of life dimensions.

Conclusions:

The relationship between chronic musculoskeletal pain and quality of life can vary according to some aspects, such as the number of painful areas, disease severity and pain chronicity. The reliability of generic instruments to evaluate the quality of life of patients with chronic musculoskeletal pain should be better evaluated.
Inhibition of microRNA-214-5p promotes cell survival and extracellular matrix formation by targeting collagen type IV alpha 1 in osteoblastic MC3T3-E1 cells
Authors: Li Q. S. , Meng F. Y. , Zhao Y. H. , Jin C. L. , Tian J. , Yi X. J.
Published: August 2017

Objectives

This study aimed to investigate the functional effects of microRNA (miR)-214-5p on osteoblastic cells, which might provide a potential role of miR-214-5p in bone fracture healing.

Methods

Blood samples were obtained from patients with hand fracture or intra-articular calcaneal fracture and from healthy controls (HCs). Expression of miR-214-5p was monitored by qRT-PCR at day 7, 14 and 21 post-surgery. Mouse osteoblastic MC3T3-E1 cells were transfected with antisense oligonucleotides (ASO)-miR-214-5p, collagen type IV alpha 1 (COL4A1) vector or their controls; thereafter, cell viability, apoptotic rate, and the expression of collagen type I alpha 1 (COL1A1), type II collagen (COL-II), and type X collagen (COL-X) were determined. Luciferase reporter assay, qRT-PCR, and Western blot were performed to ascertain whether COL4A1 was a target of miR-214-5p.

Results

Plasma miR-214-5p was highly expressed in patients with bone fracture compared with HCs after fracture (p < 0.05 or p < 0.01). Inhibition of miR-214-5p increased the viability of MC3T3-E1 cells and the expressions of COL1A1 and COL-X, but decreased the apoptotic rate and COL-II expression (p < 0.05 or p < 0.01). COL4A1 was a target of miR-214-5p, and was negatively regulated by miR-214-5p (p < 0.05 or p < 0.01). Overexpression of COL4A1 showed a similar impact on cell viability, apoptotic rate, and COL1A1, COL-II, and COL-X expressions inhibiting miR-214-5p (p < 0.01).

Conclusion

Inhibition of miR-214-5p promotes cell survival and extracellular matrix (ECM) formation of osteoblastic MC3T3-E1 cells by targeting COL4A1. Cite this article: Q. S. Li, F. Y. Meng, Y. H. Zhao, C. L. Jin, J. Tian, X. J. Yi. Inhibition of microRNA-214-5p promotes cell survival and extracellular matrix formation by targeting collagen type IV alpha 1 in osteoblastic MC3T3-E1 cells. Bone Joint Res 2017;6:464–471. DOI: 10.1302/2046-3758.68.BJR-2016-0208.R2
Crisis Management Strategies and the Long-Term Effects of Product Recalls on Firm Value
Authors: Liu Yan , Shankar Venkatesh , Yun Wonjoo
Published: August 2017

Companies increasingly face product harm crises resulting in product recalls, which often have a negative impact on firm value. Whereas prior research has studied the short-term effects of product recalls on firm value, the authors of this article focus on the long-term effects. They develop a conceptual framework and hypotheses about the main effect of recall volume and the moderating effects of crisis management strategies on the relationship between recall volume and long-term firm value. They empirically test the hypotheses in the auto industry context using both short-term abnormal returns analysis and long-term calendar-time portfolio analysis of 280 product recalls during 2005–2015. The findings reveal that the negative impact of product recall volume lingers over time. Brand (promotion) advertising has a significant positive (negative) effect on the relationship between recall volume and long-term abnormal returns. Furthermore, both voluntary recall initiation and postrecall remedial efforts positively moderate the impact of recall volume on long-term returns. These moderating effects are contrary to those in the short term. The results suggest that managers should use different advertising types during and after a recall, strategically initiate recalls, and diligently prepare postrecall remedies to mitigate the negative effects of recall volume on long-term return.
Low-temperature pyrolysis of oily sludge: roles of Fe/Al-pillared bentonites
Authors: Jia Hanzhong , Zhao Song , Zhou Xiehong , Qu Chengtun , Fan Daidi , Wang Chuanyi
Published: August 2017

Pyrolysis is potentially an effective treatment of oily sludge for oil recovery, and the addition of a catalyst is expected to affect its pyrolysis behavior. In the present study, Fe/Al-pillared bentonite with various Fe/Al ratios as pyrolysis catalyst is prepared and characterized by XRD, N2adsorption, and NH3-TPD. The integration of Al and Fe in the bentonite interlayers to form pillared clay is evidenced by increase in the basal spacing. As a result, a critical ratio of Fe/Al exists in the Fe/Al-pillared bentonite catalytic pyrolysis for oil recovery from the sludge. The oil yield increases with respect to increase in Fe/Al ratio of catalysts, then decreases with further increasing of Fe/Al ratio. The optimum oil yield using 2.0 wt% of Fe/Al 0.5-pillared bentonite as catalyst attains to 52.46% compared to 29.23% without catalyst addition in the present study. In addition, the addition of Fe/Al-pillared bentonite catalyst also improves the quality of pyrolysis-produced oil and promotes the formation of CH4. Fe/Al-pillared bentonite provides acid center in the inner surface, which is beneficial to the cracking reaction of oil molecules in pyrolysis process. The present work implies that Fe/Al-pillared bentonite as addictive holds great potential in industrial pyrolysis of oily sludge.
Environmental aspects of using gas chromatography for determination of pharmaceutical residues in samples characterized by different composition of the matrix
Authors: Sadkowska Joanna , Caban Magda , Chmielewski Mariusz , Stepnowski Piotr , Kumirska Jolanta
Published: August 2017

This paper aims at presenting the possibilities of applying gas chromatography for the determination of pharmaceutical residues in different matrices. Section one of the study underscores the environmental advantages of employing GC for such analyses. Section two presents the innovative methods for determining pharmaceuticals in the environment. The last section discusses the results of the analysis of the GC and GC-MS market in Poland.

According to the literature data, the described methods were applied for the analysis of real samples: wastewaters, surface waters, soil samples. The samples were collected from the Pomerania region and the Gulf of Gdańsk. The pharmaceuticals were determined in various environmental samples. The highest concentrations were found in raw wastewater, medium – in a treated wastewater, and the lowest – in surface water. The most frequently detected pharmaceuticals were: ibuprofen, paracetamol, diclofenac and naproxen, all belonging to NSAIDs.

Furthermore, the results of the study of the Polish GC market indicate that a very limited number of entities are currently using chromatographic techniques, and pharmaceutical residues tests are exceptions, mainly due to the lack of the legal requirements in this field and the lack of own laboratories.
Adsorptive removal of pentachlorophenol from aqueous solutions using powdered eggshell
Authors: Kuśmierek Krzysztof , Idźkiewicz Paulina , Świątkowski Andrzej , Dąbek Lidia
Published: August 2017

The usefulness of untreated powdered eggshell as low-cost adsorbent for the removal of pentachlorophenol (PCP) from aqueous solutions was investigated. The most important parameters affecting the adsorption process, including the pH and ionic strength, were examined. The adsorption characteristics of PCP onto eggshell were evaluated in terms of kinetic and equilibrium parameters. The kinetic data were studied in terms of the pseudo-first order, pseudo-second order and intra-particle diffusion kinetic models. The equilibrium data were analyzed using the Langmuir, Freundlich, Sips and Redlich-Peterson isotherm models. The pseudo-second order model best described the adsorption kinetics. Using the Langmuir equation, the monolayer adsorption capacity of eggshell for PCP was found to be 0.127 mg/g. The results showed that PCP can be effectively removed from aqueous solution employing eggshell as a cheap adsorbent.
The use of activated carbons for removing organic matter from groundwater
Authors: Kaleta Jadwiga , Kida Małgorzata , Koszelnik Piotr , Papciak Dorota , Puszkarewicz Alicja , Tchórzewska-Cieślak Barbara
Published: August 2017

The article presents research results of the introduction of powdery activated carbon to the existing technological system of the groundwater treatment stations in a laboratory, pilot plant and technical scale. The aim of the research was to reduce the content of organic compounds found in the treated water, which create toxic organic chlorine compounds (THM) after disinfection with chlorine. Nine types of powdery active carbons were tested in laboratory scale. The top two were selected for further study. Pilot plant scale research was carried out for the filter model using CWZ-30 and Norit Sa Super carbon. Reduction of the organic matter in relation to the existing content in the treated water reached about 30%. Research in technical scale using CWZ-30 carbon showed a lesser efficiency with respect to laboratory and pilot-plant scale studies. The organic matter decreased by 15%. Since filtration is the last process before the individual disinfection, an alternative solution is proposed, i.e. the second stage of filtration with a granular activated carbon bed, operating in combined sorption and biodegradation processes. The results of tests carried out in pilot scale were fully satisfactory with the effectiveness of 70–100%.
Mori Ōgai, “The Grouch” – A Kanshi (Sino-Japanese Poem) about Paintings for Sale in a Modern Department Store
Authors: Wixted John Timothy
Published: August 2017

Mori Ōgai 森鷗外 (1862–1922) stands at the fountainhead of modern Japanese literature. He is most famous for his prose writings: the groundbreaking short story, Maihime 舞姬 (The Danseuse); the full-length novel, Gan 雁 (The Wild Goose); and a half-dozen lengthy historical biographies. Much of Ōgai’s most creative writing is found in his translations. In Sokkyō shijin 即興詩人, Hans Christian Andersen’s The Improvisatore is transformed into mesmerizing quasi-classical Japanese. Fausuto ファウスト, written in a pithy Japanese vernacular full of wit, provides the first full-length translation of the Goethe classic. And his renderings of plays by Ibsen and Strindberg stand at the forefront of modern Japanese theatre. Mori Ōgai’s Sino-Japanese poems are especially important. They are revealing in biographical terms, the better to understand Ōgai (the person, the author, the public figure); in historical terms, to comprehend better the era in which he wrote, as well as how he experienced it and perceived earlier periods; and in literary terms, the better to appreciate his achievement as a writer. The selection presented here is revelatory on all three counts. One should keep in mind that, by writing in classical Chinese, Ōgai was not only participating in a centuries-long tradition in Japan. He was also “enacting civilization”, as it were, by writing in the pan-East Asian idiom that anyone educated was assumed to know. By the time the following poem was written, such a view had become quite conservative, if not reactionary.