bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring the acceptability of a ‘limited patient consent procedure’ for a proposed blood-borne virus screening programme: a Delphi consensus building technique
Authors: Crane Denise , Henderson Emily J , Chadwick David R
Published: May 2017

Objective

To identify components of a proposed blood-borne virus (BBV) population screening programme and its associated consent procedure that both the public and health practitioners (HPs) would find acceptable. The proposed BBV screening system would aim to reduce late diagnosis of BBVs and be used in patients undergoing routine blood tests, aided by risk stratification software to target individuals at higher risk of infection.

Design

A Delphi technique was used to build consensus among two separate groups, public participants and HPs in England.

Methods

A survey incorporating vignettes was developed, with input from an external panel of experts. Over three rounds, 46 public participants and 37 HPs completed the survey, rating statements on a four-point Likert scale. The survey covered issues around stigma and sensitivity, the use of risk stratification algorithms and ‘limited’ patient consent (ie, preinformed of the option to ‘opt-out’). Consensus was defined as >70% of participants agreeing or disagreeing with each statement.

Results

Consensus was achieved among both groups in terms of acceptability of the screening programme. There was also consensus on using patient data to risk-stratify screening algorithms and the need to obtain some form of consent around the time of drawing blood.

Conclusions

This study found that the special protected status of HIV in England is no longer deemed necessary today and hinders appropriate care. We propose that a novel ‘limited consent procedure’ could be implemented in future screening programmes.
An investigation on the use of snus and its association with respiratory and sleep-related symptoms: a cross-sectional population study
Authors: Gudnadóttir Arna Ýr , Ólafsdóttir Inga Sif , Middelveld Roelinde , Ekerljung Linda , Forsberg Bertil , Franklin Karl , Lindberg Eva , Janson Christer
Published: May 2017

Introduction

Studies of the health effects of moist oral tobacco, snus, have produced inconsistent results. The main objective of this study is to examine the health effects of snus use on asthma, respiratory symptoms and sleep-related problems, a field that has not been investigated before.

Methods and material

This cross-sectional study was based on a postal questionnaire completed by 26 697 (59.3%) participants aged 16 to 75 years and living in Sweden. The questionnaire included questions on tobacco use, asthma, respiratory symptoms and sleeping problems. The association of snus use with asthma, respiratory symptoms and sleep-related symptoms was mainly tested in never-smokers (n=16 082).

Results

The current use of snus in never-smokers was associated with an increased risk of asthma (OR 1.51 (95% CI 1.28 to 1.77)), asthmatic symptoms, chronic bronchitis and chronic rhinosinusitis. This association was not present among ex-snus users. Snoring was independently related to both the former and current use of snus ((OR 1.37 (95% CI 1.12 to 1.68)) and (OR 1.59 (95% CI 1.34 to 1.89), respectively)). A higher risk of difficulty inducing sleep was seen among snus users.

Conclusion

Snus use was associated with a higher prevalence of asthma, respiratory symptoms and snoring. Healthcare professionals should be aware of these possible adverse effects of snus use.
Simplified clinical algorithm for identifying patients eligible for immediate initiation of antiretroviral therapy for HIV (SLATE): protocol for a randomised evaluation
Authors: Rosen Sydney , Fox Matthew P , Larson Bruce A , Brennan Alana T , Maskew Mhairi , Tsikhutsu Isaac , Bii Margaret , Ehrenkranz Peter D , Venter WD Francois
Published: May 2017

Introduction

African countries are rapidly adopting guidelines to offer antiretroviral therapy (ART) to all HIV-infected individuals, regardless of CD4 count. For this policy of ‘treat all’ to succeed, millions of new patients must be initiated on ART as efficiently as possible. Studies have documented high losses of treatment-eligible patients from care before they receive their first dose of antiretrovirals (ARVs), due in part to a cumbersome, resource-intensive process for treatment initiation, requiring multiple clinic visits over a several-week period.

Methods and analysis

The Simplified Algorithm for Treatment Eligibility (SLATE) study is an individually randomised evaluation of a simplified clinical algorithm for clinicians to reliably determine a patient’s eligibility for immediate ART initiation without waiting for laboratory results or additional clinic visits. SLATE will enrol and randomise (1:1) 960 adult, HIV-positive patients who present for HIV testing or care and are not yet on ART in South Africa and Kenya. Patients randomised to the standard arm will receive routine, standard of care ART initiation from clinic staff. Patients randomised to the intervention arm will be administered a symptom report, medical history, brief physical exam and readiness assessment. Patients who have positive (satisfactory) results for all four components of SLATE will be dispensed ARVs immediately, at the same clinic visit. Patients who have any negative results will be referred for further clinical investigation, counselling, tests or other services prior to being dispensed ARVs. After the initial visit, follow-up will be by passive medical record review. The primary outcomes will be ART initiation ≤28 days and retention in care 8 months after study enrolment.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics approval has been provided by the Boston University Institutional Review Board, the University of the Witwatersrand Human Research Ethics Committee (Medical) and the KEMRI Scientific and Ethics Review Unit. Results will be published in peer-reviewed journals and made widely available through presentations and briefing documents.

Trial registration

NCT02891135
What are the current challenges of managing cancer pain and could digital technologies help?
Authors: Adam Rosalind , de Bruin Marijn , Burton Christopher David , Bond Christine M , Giatsi Clausen Maria , Murchie Peter
Published: May 2017

Objectives

Pain remains a problem for people with cancer despite effective treatments being available. We aimed to explore current pain management strategies used by patients, caregivers and professionals and to investigate opportunities for digital technologies to enhance cancer pain management.

Methods

A qualitative study comprising semistructured interviews and focus groups. Patients with cancer pain, their caregivers and health professionals from Northeast Scotland were recruited from a purposive sample of general practices. Professionals were recruited from regional networks.

Results

Fifty one participants took part in 33 interviews (eight patients alone, six patient/caregiver dyads and 19 professionals) and two focus groups (12 professionals). Living with cancer was hard work for patients and caregivers and comparable to a ‘full-time job’. Patients had personal goals which involved controlling pain intensity and balancing this with analgesic use, side effects, overall symptom burden and social/physical activities.

Digital technologies were embraced by most patients, and made living life with advanced cancer easier and richer (eg, video calls with family). Technology was underutilised for pain and symptom management. There were suggestions that technology could support self-monitoring and communicating problems to professionals, but patients and professionals were concerned about technological monitoring adding to the work of managing illness.

Conclusions

Cancer pain management takes place in the context of multiple, sometimes competing personal goals. It is possible that technology could be used to help patients share individual symptom experiences and goals, thus enhancing tailored care. The challenge is for digital solutions to add value without adding undue burden.
A crisis of meaning: can ‘schizophrenia’ survive in the 21st century?
Authors: Tew Jerry
Published: May 2017

Both within clinical and wider societal discourses, the term ‘schizophrenia’ has achieved considerable potency as a signifier, privileging particular conceptual frames for understanding and responding to mental distress. However, its status has been subject to instability, as it has lacked indisputable biological correlates that would anchor its place within the canon of medical diagnosis. Informed by a semiotic perspective, this paper focuses on its recent history: how ‘schizophrenia’ has been claimed, appropriated and contested—and how this connects with its earlier history of signification. It also explores how the dominance of this signifier has influenced the ways in which people with the diagnosis may find themselves constructed in their interactions with professionals, family and wider society, and hence how they may come to see themselves. It is argued that, from a point in the 1990s when ‘schizophrenia’ had achieved an almost iconic status, the term is now subject to greater instability, with concerns and challenges being raised from both within and outside psychiatry. On the one hand, this uncertainty has triggered a ‘calls to arms' from those within the psychiatric establishment who see diagnoses such as ‘schizophrenia’ as crucial to their professional identity and status. On the other hand, this has created spaces for new conversations and alliances between elements within neurology, psychiatry, social work and other professions, and between these and service users. Some of these conversations are casting doubt on the validity and utility of ‘schizophrenia’ as a construct, and are beginning to posit alternative regimes of signification.
The presentation of mental disturbance in modern Scottish literature
Authors: Beveridge Allan
Published: May 2017

The subject of madness features throughout world literature, but the literature of modern Scotland appears to be especially preoccupied with it. This paper gives a brief overview of the ways in which madness is represented in modern Scottish literature and the different artistic functions it performs. It will consider the subject on a thematic basis. First, there are accounts by writers who have experienced mental turmoil themselves. Second, there is the theme of the ‘Narrative of personal crisis’ which depicts in fictional form an individual's journey through madness. Third, there is the theme of the ‘Gothic or divided selves’. The fourth theme is that of the ‘Female voice’ and the last is that of ‘Outsiders and holy fools’, whose existence is to unsettle the beliefs of a wider society.
Listen and learn: engaging young people, their families and schools in early intervention research
Authors: Connor Charlotte
Published: May 2017

Recent policy guidelines highlight the importance of increasing the identification of young people at risk of developing mental health problems in order to prevent their transition to long-term problems, avoid crisis and remove the need for care through specialist mental health services or hospitalisation. Early awareness of the often insidious behavioural and cognitive changes associated with deteriorating mental well-being, however, is difficult, but it is vital if young people, their families and those who work with them are to be fully equipped with the skills to aid early help-seeking. Our early intervention research continues to highlight the necessity of engaging with and listening to the voices of young people, families and those who work with children and young people, in developing greater understanding of why some young people may be more at risk in terms of their mental health, and to provide children and young people with the best mental health support we can. Collaborative working with young people, their families and those who work with them has been an essential dimension of our youth mental health research in Birmingham, UK, enabling us to listen to the personal narratives of those with lived experience and to work alongside them. This paper highlights some of our key studies and how we have endeavoured to make intra-agency working successful at each stage of the research process through increasing use of digital and youth-informed resources to engage young people: a methodology which continues to inform, guide and develop our early intervention research and implementation.
Serviceability limit state reliability-based design of augered cast-in-place piles in granular soils
Authors: Reddy Seth C. , Stuedlein Armin W.
Published: May 2017

This study proposes a reliability-based design procedure to evaluate the allowable load for augered cast-in-place (ACIP) piles installed in predominately granular soils based on a prescribed level of reliability at the serviceability limit state. The ultimate limit state (ULS) ACIP pile–specific design model proposed in the companion paper is incorporated into a bivariate hyperbolic load–displacement model capable of describing the variability in the load–displacement relationship for a wide range of pile displacements. Following the approach outlined in the companion paper, distributions with truncated lower-bound capacities are incorporated into the reliability analyses. A lumped load-and-resistance factor is calibrated using a suitable performance function and Monte Carlo simulations. The average and conservative 95% lower-bound prediction intervals for the calibrated load-and-resistance factor resulting from the simulations are provided. Although unaccounted for in past studies, the slenderness ratio is shown to have significant influence on foundation reliability. Because of the low uncertainty in the proposed ULS pile capacity prediction model, the use of a truncated distribution has moderate influence on foundation reliability.
Application of phase correction to improve the characterization of photooxidation products of lignin using 7 Tesla Fourier-transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry
Authors: Qi Yulin , Luo Ruoji , Schrader Wolfgang , Volmer Dietrich A.
Published: May 2017

Lignin is the second most abundant natural biopolymer and potentially a valuable alternative energy source for conventional fossil fuels. In this study, Fourier-transform ion cyclotron resonance-mass spectrometry (FTICR-MS) in conjunction with phase correction was applied to study photooxidation products of lignin using a 7 Tesla (T) mass spectrometer. The application of 7 T FTICR-MS has often been inadequate for the analysis of complex natural organic matter because of insufficient resolving power as compared with high-field FTICR, which led to incorrect assignments of elemental formulae and discontinuous plots in graphical and statistical analyses. Here, the application of phase correction to the FTICR mass spectra of lignin oxidation products greatly improved the spectral quality, and thus, readily permitted characterization of photooxidation processes of lignin compounds under simulated solar radiation conditions.
Energy-dependent harmonic oscillator in noncommutative space
Authors: Benchikha A. , Merad M. , Birkandan T.
Published: May 2017

In noncommutative quantum mechanics, the energy-dependent harmonic oscillator problem is studied by solving the Schrödinger equation in polar coordinates. The presence of the noncommutativity in space coordinates and the dependence on energy for the potential yield energy-dependent mass and potential. The correction of normalization condition is calculated and the parameter-dependences of the results are studied graphically.
Analytical study on the generalized Davydov model in the alpha helical proteins
Authors: Wang Pan , Xiao Shu-Hong , Chen Li , Yang Gang
Published: May 2017

In this paper, we investigate the dynamics of a generalized Davydov model derived from an infinite chain of alpha helical protein molecules which contain three hydrogen bonding spines running almost parallel to the helical axis. Through the introduction of the auxiliary function, the bilinear form, one-, two- and three-soliton solutions for the generalized Davydov model are obtained firstly. Propagation and interactions of solitons have been investigated analytically and graphically. The amplitude of the soliton is only related to the complex parameter [Formula: see text] and real parameter [Formula: see text] with a range of [Formula: see text]. The velocity of the soliton is only related to the complex parameter [Formula: see text], real parameter [Formula: see text], lattice parameter [Formula: see text], and physical parameters [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. Overtaking and head-on interactions of two and three solitons are presented. The common in the interactions of three solitons is the directions of the solitons change after the interactions. The soliton derived in this paper is expected to have potential applications in the alpha helical proteins.
A new volcanic province: an inventory of subglacial volcanoes in West Antarctica
Authors: van Wyk de Vries Maximillian , Bingham Robert G. , Hein Andrew S.
Published: May 2017

The West Antarctic Ice Sheet overlies the West Antarctic Rift System about which, due to the comprehensive ice cover, we have only limited and sporadic knowledge of volcanic activity and its extent. Improving our understanding of subglacial volcanic activity across the province is important both for helping to constrain how volcanism and rifting may have influenced ice-sheet growth and decay over previous glacial cycles, and in light of concerns over whether enhanced geothermal heat fluxes and subglacial melting may contribute to instability of the West Antarctic Ice Sheet. Here, we use ice-sheet bed-elevation data to locate individual conical edifices protruding upwards into the ice across West Antarctica, and we propose that these edifices represent subglacial volcanoes. We used aeromagnetic, aerogravity, satellite imagery and databases of confirmed volcanoes to support this interpretation. The overall result presented here constitutes a first inventory of West Antarctica's subglacial volcanism. We identified 138 volcanoes, 91 of which have not previously been identified, and which are widely distributed throughout the deep basins of West Antarctica, but are especially concentrated and orientated along the >3000 km central axis of the West Antarctic Rift System.
External Beam Radiation and Brachytherapy for Prostate Cancer: Is It a Possible Trigger of Large Cell Neuroendocrine Carcinoma of the Urinary Bladder?
Authors: Zakaria Ali , Al Share Bayan , Kollepara Sri , Vakhariya Cynthia
Published: May 2017

Neuroendocrine tumors commonly involve the respiratory and gastrointestinal systems. Primary genitourinary neuroendocrine tumors are rare, accounting for less than 1% of all bladder carcinomas. Four histopathologic subtypes have been described. Among those, large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (LCNEC) is the least common, is more aggressive, and generally presents in an advanced stage with poor prognosis compared to transitional cell bladder carcinoma. There is no standardized treatment regimen because of the rarity of the disease. Herein, we present a case of 72-year-old male patient with previously treated prostate cancer, who received external beam radiation therapy and high dose brachytherapy, presenting with intermittent hematuria. Cystoscopy and transurethral resection of bladder tumor (TURBT) were performed. The histopathology and immunohistochemistry were consistent with large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (LCNEC). Further studies are required to proof the higher risk of neuroendocrine carcinoma of the bladder in patients treated with external beam radiation therapy and brachytherapy for prostate cancer.
Prevalence of Painful Temporomandibular Disorders and Correlation to Lifestyle Factors among Adolescents in Norway
Authors: Østensjø Vegard , Moen Ketil , Storesund Trond , Rosén Annika
Published: May 2017

Aim. To estimate the prevalence of painful temporomandibular disorders (TMD-P) among adolescents and to investigate correlations with health, environment, and lifestyle factors. Methods. For this cross-sectional case-control study, 562 patients were consecutively recruited at their yearly revision control from four dental clinics in Rogaland County, Norway. Patients completed a questionnaire on general health, socioeconomics, demographics, and lifestyle factors. Responses to two screening questions identified patients with TMD-P, who then underwent clinical examination to verify the TMD diagnosis. Pain intensity was assessed on a visual analogue scale. Patients without TMD-P constituted the control group and were not clinically examined. Results. 7% experienced TMD-P. The female-to-male ratio is 3:1; median age is 17 years. Patients at urban clinics had higher prevalence compared with those at rural clinics. TMD-P patients had headache and severe menstrual pain compared to controls. They were more likely to live with divorced/single parents and less likely to have regular physical activity. Myalgia was present in 21 patients with TMD-P, arthralgia in nine, and myalgia and arthralgia in nine. Females had higher pain intensity than males. Conclusions. A low prevalence of TMD-P was shown but was comparable to other studies. Sex, health, lifestyle, and environment factors were associated with TMD-P.
An Examination of the Role of Transcriptional and Posttranscriptional Regulation in Rhabdomyosarcoma
Authors: Hron Alexander J. , Asakura Atsushi
Published: May 2017

Rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is an aggressive family of soft tissue tumors that most commonly manifests in children. RMS variants express several skeletal muscle markers, suggesting myogenic stem or progenitor cell origin of RMS. In this review, the roles of both recently identified and well-established microRNAs in RMS are discussed and summarized in a succinct, tabulated format. Additionally, the subtypes of RMS are reviewed along with the involvement of basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) proteins, Pax proteins, and microRNAs in normal and pathologic myogenesis. Finally, the current and potential future treatment options for RMS are outlined.
Petroleum Hydrocarbon Fingerprints of Water and Sediment Samples of Buffalo River Estuary in the Eastern Cape Province, South Africa
Authors: Adeniji A. O. , Okoh O. O. , Okoh A. I.
Published: May 2017

Petroleum hydrocarbon status of the Buffalo River Estuary in East London, South Africa, was evaluated from January to May, 2016. Surface water and sediment samples were collected from five points in the estuary and extracted using standard methods. The extracts were subsequently analyzed by gas chromatography-flame ionization detection. Results showed that total petroleum hydrocarbon (TPH) varied from 7.65 to 477 μg/L in the water and 12.59 to 1,100 mg/kg in the sediments, with mean values of 146.50 ± 27.96 μg/L and 209.81 ± 63.82 mg/kg, respectively. Concentrations of TPH in the sediments correlated significantly with organic carbon (OC) in both seasons. TPH and OC levels were slightly lower in summer than in autumn in the two environmental matrices, and the average amount of TPH in the water samples collected from all the sampling stations was generally lower than the EU standard limit of 300 μg/L. However, the levels in the sediments exceeded the EGASPIN target value (50 mg/kg) for mineral oil but were below the intervention value (5,000 mg/kg), indicating a serious impact of industrial growth and urbanization on the area, although the n-alkane ratios and indexes used for source tracking revealed excessive flow from both natural and anthropogenic sources.
Anxiolytics, Sedatives, and Hypnotics Prescribed by Dentists in Brazil in 2010
Authors: Lino Patrícia Azevedo , Martins Maria Auxiliadora Parreiras , Silva Maria Elisa de Souza e , de Abreu Mauro Henrique Nogueira Guimarães
Published: May 2017

Objective. To describe dental prescriptions for anxiolytics, sedatives, and hypnotics for Brazilian outpatients in 2010. Methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted using data on the use of anxiolytics, sedatives, and hypnotics from the Brazilian Health Surveillance Agency, Brazil, 2010. For each prescription, prescribed drugs and the prescribed amount were identified. Prescribed medications were classified according to Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical code. We calculated the number of Defined Daily Doses (DDD) for anxiolytics, sedatives, and hypnotics by code, their mean DDD, and DDD per inhabitant per year. Results. There were 16,436 prescriptions dispensed, including anxiolytics, sedatives, and hypnotics. These prescriptions corresponded to 3,555,780.50 mg, distributed as 2,286,200.50 mg (64.30%) of anxiolytics and 1,269,580.00 mg (35.70%) of sedatives and hypnotics. This amount allowed treating approximately 474,106 individuals (number of DDD). The anxiolytics most frequently dispensed were bromazepam (25.30%), alprazolam (19.19%), and diazepam (15.60%). Sedatives and hypnotics mostly prescribed were zolpidem (9.55%), midazolam (6.99%), and flunitrazepam (2.14%). The per capita rates (100,000 inhabitants) of anxiolytics and sedatives/hypnotics were 6.83 and 1.78, respectively. Conclusions. Benzodiazepines and derivatives were the most frequently prescribed drugs. There was a low rate of dental prescriptions for anxiolytics, sedatives, and hypnotics, although excessive doses were concentrated in the same prescription.
A Rare Case of Septic Shock Secondary to Emphysematous Hepatitis
Authors: Nada Khaled M. , El Husseini Ibrahim , Abu Hishmeh Mohammad E. , Shah Neerav S. , Ibragimova Nadezhda , Basir Riyad
Published: May 2017

Objective. To describe a case of emphysematous hepatitis which is a rare clinical entity, characterized by a fatal, rapidly progressive infection of the liver with a radiological appearance simulating emphysematous pyelonephritis and to help provide more data about the causative organisms and precipitating factors of this pathology.Data Sources and Synthesis. Relevant literature was reviewed and, to the best of our knowledge, there is limited data regarding the pathogenesis, causative organisms, and management of this condition.Conclusion. Emphysematous hepatitis is a rapidly progressive infection that can be fatal in the absence of appropriate therapeutic intervention. Initial clinical manifestations are usually subtle and thus high clinical suspicion is required for early diagnosis and management of this condition to help decrease the mortality rates.
Design and Steady‐State Performance of a Novel Winding Type Permanent Magnet Coupling with Slip Power Recovery Function
Authors: Xia Lei , Jiang Haobin
Published: May 2017

A novel winding type permanent magnet coupling (WTPMC) is proposed to work as an adjustable speed drive with slip power recovery function. As a kind of dual‐mechanical‐port electric machine with radial‐flux configuration, the WTPMC consists of an outer rotor embedded with three‐phase windings, an inner rotor populated with permanent magnets, and a slip power recovery circuit comprising a rectifier, a boost converter, and an ultracapacitor. The working principle of the WTPMC is presented, and its mathematical model is derived. To develop a WTPMC prototype for automotive applications, two‐dimensional (2D) finite element analysis (FEA) is conducted using Ansoft Maxwell software to study the steady‐state (constant slip speed) performance. For the experimental validation, the WTPMC prototype is manufactured and tested on a test bench. To show the accuracy of the 2D FEA, the computed results are compared with those obtained from experimental measurements. It is shown that the agreement between the 2D FEA and experimental results is good. Moreover, the WTPMC prototype can operate in the output speed range under different load torque conditions. The slip power recovery efficiency for the 2D FEA is 66.7%, while, for experimental measurements, it is 57.2%.
Arthroscopic Treatment of 2 Consecutive Cases of Dysplasia Epiphysealis Hemimelica of the Ankle: A 5-Year Follow-Up Report
Authors: Calderaro Cosma , Iorio Carlo , Turturro Francesco , Morelli Federico , Labianca Luca , Montanaro Antonello , Ferretti Andrea
Published: May 2017

The dysplasia epiphysealis hemimelica (DEH) is a rare disease of unknown etiology consisting in an abnormal osteocartilaginous growth at the epiphysis, usually hemimelic with histological findings similar to benign osteochondroma. In this case series, we described the results of the arthroscopic treatment of 2 consecutive cases of intra-articular ankle localization of DEH in 2 patients aged 9 and 10 years. The good result obtained, persistent at the 5-year follow-up, leads us to consider the arthroscopic approach as a reliable treatment in patient affected by intra-articular ankle DEH.
Cardiovascular Autonomic Neuropathy Is an Independent Risk Factor for Left Ventricular Diastolic Dysfunction in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Jin Jiewen , Wang Weimin , Zhu Liangying , Gu Tianwei , Niu Qing , Li Ping , Bi Yan , Zhu Dalong
Published: May 2017

Aim. This study aimed to evaluate the association between cardiovascular autonomic neuropathy (CAN) and left ventricular diastolic dysfunction (LVDD) in type 2 diabetes patients. Methods. 315 type 2 diabetes patients from inpatients of Drum Tower Hospital were included and classified into no CAN (NCAN), possible CAN (PCAN), and definite CAN (DCAN) based on cardiovascular autonomic reflex tests. The left ventricular diastolic function was assessed by tissue Doppler imaging echocardiography. Results. The distribution of NCAN, PCAN, and DCAN was 11.4%, 51.1%, and 37.5%, respectively. The proportion of LVDD increased among the groups of NCAN, PCAN, and DCAN (39.4%, 45.3%, and 68.0%, P=0.001). Patients with DCAN had higher filling pressure (E/e′ ratio) (10.9±2.7 versus 9.4±2.8, P=0.013) and impaired diastolic performance (e′) (6.8±1.7 versus 8.6±2.4, P=0.004) compared with NCAN. CAN was found to be an independent risk factor for LVDD from the multivariate regression analysis (OR = 1.628, P=0.009, 95% CI 1.131–2.344). Conclusions. Our results indicated that CAN was an independent risk marker for the presence of LVDD in patients with diabetes. Early diagnosis and treatment of CAN are advocated for preventing LVDD in type 2 diabetes.
Application of Spent Li-Ion Batteries Cathode in Methylene Blue Dye Discoloration
Authors: Garcia Eric M. , Taroco Hosane A. , Madeira Ana Paula C. , Souza Amauri G. , Silva Rafael R. A. , Melo Júlio O. F. , Taroco Cristiane G. , Teixeira Quele C. P.
Published: May 2017

This paper aims to present the mechanism study of methylene blue (MB) discoloration using spent Li-ion battery cathode tape and hydrogen peroxide. The recycled cathode used in this work is composed of 72% of LiCoO2, 18% of carbon, and 10% of Al. The value found for surface area is 8.9 m2/g and the ZCP value occurs in pH = 2.95. Different from what is proposed in the literature, the most likely mechanism of methylene blue discoloration is the oxidation/delitiation of LiCoO2 and the reduction of H2O2 forming OH∙. Thus, in this paper, an important and promising alternative for discoloration of textile industry dyes using spent Li-ion battery cathode is presented.
Reanalysis and External Validation of a Decision Tree Model for Detecting Unrecognized Diabetes in Rural Chinese Individuals
Authors: Xin Zhong , Hua Lin , Wang Xu-Hong , Zhao Dong , Yu Cai-Guo , Ma Ya-Hong , Zhao Lei , Cao Xi , Yang Jin-Kui
Published: May 2017

We reanalyzed previous data to develop a more simplified decision tree model as a screening tool for unrecognized diabetes, using basic information in Beijing community health records. Then, the model was validated in another rural town. Only three non-laboratory-based risk factors (age, BMI, and presence of hypertension) with fewer branches were used in the new model. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and area under the curve (AUC) for detecting diabetes were calculated. The AUC values in internal and external validation groups were 0.708 and 0.629, respectively. Subjects with high risk of diabetes had significantly higher HOMA-IR, but no significant difference in HOMA-B was observed. This simple tool will help general practitioners and residents assess the risk of diabetes quickly and easily. This study also validates the strong associations of insulin resistance and early stage of diabetes, suggesting that more attention should be paid to the current model in rural Chinese adult populations.
Analytical Study on an Oscillating Buoy Wave Energy Converter Integrated into a Fixed Box‐Type Breakwater
Authors: Zhao Xuanlie , Ning Dezhi , Zhang Chongwei , Liu Yingyi , Kang Haigui
Published: May 2017

An oscillating buoy wave energy converter (WEC) integrated to an existing box‐type breakwater is introduced in this study. The buoy is installed on the existing breakwater and designed to be much smaller than the breakwater in scale, aiming to reduce the construction cost of the WEC. The oscillating buoy works as a heave‐type WEC in front of the breakwater towards the incident waves. A power take‐off (PTO) system is installed on the topside of the breakwater to harvest the kinetic energy (in heave mode) of the floating buoy. The hydrodynamic performance of this system is studied analytically based on linear potential‐flow theory. Effects of the geometrical parameters on the reflection and transmission coefficients and the capture width ratio (CWR) of the system are investigated. Results show that the maximum efficiency of the energy extraction can reach 80% or even higher. Compared with the isolated box‐type breakwater, the reflection coefficient can be effectively decreased by using this oscillating buoy WEC, with unchanged transmission coefficient. Thus, the possibility of capturing the wave energy with the oscillating buoy WEC integrated into breakwaters is shown.
Resource Aware Sensor-to-Actor Allocation Framework for WSANs Based on Voronoi Cells Theory
Authors: Dima Sofia Maria , Antonopoulos Christos , Koubias Stavros
Published: May 2017

Wireless sensor and actor networks (WSANs) have emerged as a promising research field and have been applied in a wide variety of application domains due to their capability of environment monitoring, event data processing, and decision-making by aiming at performing appropriate actions interacting with the environment. Coordination mechanisms among nodes and actors are a critical research challenge pertaining to the optimum allocation of sensors to a particular actor. Although efforts related to the node-to-actor coordination problem have been presented in the current literature, there is a significant oversight regarding critical characteristics such as the heterogeneous capabilities of the actors as well as the network’s heterogeneous density. In this paper, aiming to address such shortcomings, we introduce the term Actor Service Capacity, which indicates the ability of an actor to serve a particular number of nodes. We also propose a novel node-to-actor coordination algorithm, based on the Voronoi tessellation, aiming to guarantee that the number of nodes, allocated to each actor, will not exceed its capabilities. Furthermore, a set of selection techniques are proposed so as to be applied on the coordination framework. Respective evaluation analysis offers useful conclusions and highlights the importance and the advantages of the proposed algorithm.
Uterine Cavity Abnormalities in Patients with Endometriosis in Alexandria: A Diagnostic Test Accuracy Study
Authors: Abd El Fattah Eman Aly
Published: May 2017

Endometriosis is strongly associated with infertility. Endometrial polyps are prevalent in infertile women and they have similar pathological characteristics to endometriosis, suggesting a possible association. Uterine malformations as uterine septum and hypoplastic uterus are also linked to endometriosis. Hysterosalpingogram and transvaginal ultrasonography are used to diagnose endometrial lesions. Hysteroscopy can detect small lesions that might be missed. Recently, 4D ultrasonography is being used, but which is superior has not been established yet. We aim to compare 4D ultrasonography to office hysteroscopy in evaluating uterine cavity in cases with endometriosis; also we aim at correlating these findings with the stage of endometriosis. 50 cases of endometriosis diagnosed by laparoscopy were randomly selected from El Shatby fertility clinic, Alexandria University, Egypt, with exclusion of cases with any previous intrauterine surgery or any hormonal treatment. Transvaginal 4D ultrasonography and office hysteroscopy were done. 4D ultrasonography agreed with office hysteroscopy in diagnosing abnormal uterine findings in 14 cases and four additional cases were diagnosed by hysteroscopy alone.Conclusion. Endometrial polyps, septate uterus, and hypoplastic uterus are more prevalent among infertile women who happen to have endometriosis. 4D ultrasonography and office hysteroscopy are equally successful in assessing the uterine cavity.
Finding Solvable Units of Variables in Nonlinear ODEs of ECM Degradation Pathway Network
Authors: Kawasaki Shuji , Minerva Dhisa , Itano Keiko , Suzuki Takashi
Published: May 2017

We consider ordinary differential equation (ODE) model for a pathway network that arises in extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation. For solving the ODEs, we propose applying the mass conservation law (MCL), together with a stoichiometry called doubling rule, to them. Then it leads to extracting new units of variables in the ODEs that can be solved explicitly, at least in principle. The simulation results for the ODE solutions show that the numerical solutions are indeed in good accord with theoretical solutions and satisfy the MALs.
Prenatal Diagnosis of Atrioventricular Block and QT Interval Prolongation by Fetal Magnetocardiography in a Fetus with Trisomy 18 and SCN5A R1193Q Variant
Authors: Lin Lisheng , Takahashi-Igari Miho , Kato Yoshiaki , Nozaki Yoshihiro , Obata Mana , Hamada Hiromi , Horigome Hitoshi
Published: May 2017

We report a case of fetal trisomy 18 with SCN5A R1193Q variant that presented with sinus bradycardia, 2 : 1 atrioventricular block (AVB), and QT interval prolongation. These complex arrhythmias were diagnosed by fetal magnetocardiography combined with ultrasound findings. Advanced AVB and ventricular arrhythmias were confirmed after birth. Genetic testing of the baby revealed a SCN5A R1193Q variant, which we considered could account for the various arrhythmias in this case.
Personalized Consent Flow in Contemporary Data Sharing for Medical Research: A Viewpoint
Authors: Rake Ester A. , van Gelder Marleen M. H. J. , Grim David C. , Heeren Barend , Engelen Lucien J. L. P. G. , van de Belt Tom H.
Published: May 2017

Background. Health data personally collected by individuals with wearable devices and smartphones is becoming an important data source for healthcare, but also for medical research. Objective. To describe a new consent model that allows people to control their personally collected health data and determine to what extent they want to share these for research purposes. Methods. We developed, in close collaboration with patients, researchers, healthcare professionals, privacy experts, and an accredited Medical Ethical Review Committee, an innovative concept called “personalized consent flow” within a research platform connected to a personal health record. The development was an iterative process with informal meetings, semistructured interviews, and surveys. The final concept of the personalized consent flow was reviewed by patients and improved and approved by the same patients in a focus group. Results. This concept could result in optimal control for individual users, since they will answer questions about how they will share data. Furthermore, it enables users to collect data for specific studies and add expiration dates to their data. This work facilitates further discussion about dynamic and personalized consent. A pilot study with the personalized consent model is currently being carried out.
Quality Improvement Interventions for Nutritional Assessment among Pregnant Mothers in Northeastern Uganda
Authors: Izudi Jonathan , Epidu Calvin , Katawera Andrew , Kekitiinwa Adeodata
Published: May 2017

Introduction. Assessment of pregnant mothers for nutritional status is a neglected intervention. In Kaabong Hospital, nutritional status of pregnant mothers was not assessed during antenatal care (ANC) visits. A quality improvement (QI) project was initiated to increase nutritional assessment using midupper arm circumference (MUAC) among pregnant mothers during ANC visits from 0 to 90% between April and September 2015. Method. Baylor-Uganda formed ANC Work Improvement Team (WIT) that reviewed ANC register, identified gaps in quality of care, analyzed root causes using cause-effect diagram, developed solutions, and tested and implemented the solution using Plan-Do-Study-Act cycles. Planned and tested changes included the provision of anthropometric tools, integrated ANC register, and data use. Result. In April 2015 (baseline), none (0/235) of the pregnant women were assessed for nutritional status using MUAC. Following QI interventions, nutritional assessment improved to 79% (200/252) in May 2015 and to 100% (241/241) in June 2015. The 100% performance was sustained until August 2016. Overall, 39 cases of malnutrition—1 (2.6%) severe (MUAC < 19.0 cm) and 38 (97.4%) moderate acute malnutrition (MUAC 19–22.0 cm)—were identified and linked to nutritional rehabilitation program. Conclusion. QI interventions are critical in achieving high rates of nutritional status assessment and identifying malnourished pregnant women during ANC visits.
Approximate Solutions of Schrodinger Equation with Some Diatomic Molecular Interactions Using Nikiforov-Uvarov Method
Authors: Okon Ituen B. , Popoola Oyebola , Isonguyo Cecilia N.
Published: May 2017

We used a tool of conventional Nikiforov-Uvarov method to determine bound state solutions of Schrodinger equation with quantum interaction potential called Hulthen-Yukawa inversely quadratic potential (HYIQP). We obtained the energy eigenvalues and the total normalized wave function. We employed Hellmann-Feynman Theorem (HFT) to compute expectation valuesr-2,r-1,T, andp2for four different diatomic molecules: hydrogen molecule (H2), lithium hydride molecule (LiH), hydrogen chloride molecule (HCl), and carbon (II) oxide molecule. The resulting energy equation reduces to three well-known potentials which are as follows: Hulthen potential, Yukawa potential, and inversely quadratic potential. The bound state energies for Hulthen and Yukawa potentials agree with the result reported in existing literature. We obtained the numerical bound state energies of the expectation values by implementing MATLAB algorithm using experimentally determined spectroscopic constant for the different diatomic molecules. We developed mathematica programming to obtain wave function and probability density plots for different orbital angular quantum number.
Hereditary Podocytopathies in Adults: The Next Generation
Authors: Boyer Olivia , Dorval Guillaume , Servais Aude
Published: May 2017

Idiopathic nephrotic syndrome may have two underlying mechanisms: either (1) an alteration of the immune system resulting in the production of a putative circulating factor of glomerular permeability; or (2) mutations in the structural genes of the glomerular filtration barrier in which case patients are typically multidrug resistant and do not recur after transplantation. The latter forms have been recently recognized as “hereditary podocytopathies.” In the past few years, positional cloning approaches that allow the identification of gene mutations underlying diseases whose pathophysiology is unknown and animal models have helped decipher the pathophysiological mechanisms of the glomerular filtration process. Recently, the advent of next-generation sequencing (NGS) techniques has greatly facilitated the identification of numerous novel causative genes in hereditary podocytopathies. Moreover, it has revealed mutations in unexpected genes and has widened the phenotypes associated with podocyte gene mutations. The list of genes mutated in hereditary podocytopathies is constantly evolving and consists to date of more than 40 genes. However, the most recently identified genes are extremely rarely mutated and may concern only a couple of families worldwide. These discoveries provided crucial insight into the pathophysiological mechanisms linking podocyte proteins to kidney function. This review will focus on monogenic podocytopathies affecting adult patients.
Circulating Tumor Cells as a Biomarker in Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Liu Han , Sun Bo , Wang Shengnan , Liu Congjin , Lu Yun , Li Ding , Liu Xingdang
Published: May 2017

Background/Aims: Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) are valuable in both basic research and clinical application for cancer management. In the current study, we evaluated the diagnostic value of CTCs in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Methods: In total, 143 blood samples from 95 consecutively diagnosed PDAC patients and 48 healthy donors were collected. Combined data from immunostaining of CD45, DAPI and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) with chromosome 8 centromere (CEP8) probe were used to identify CTCs. Cells with features of CD45-/DAPI+/CEP8>2 were detected as CTCs. Results: CTCs were classified as triploid, tetraploid and multiploid based on chromosome 8 copy number. CTC subtype composition was significantly different among groups. Both subtype number and total CTC number were significantly increased in PDAC patients, compared to healthy controls. Total CTC number had 75.8% sensitivity and 68.7% specificity at a cutoff value of 2 cells/3.2 mL. This study is the first to report that CTC subtype number is also useful in cancer diagnosis. Sensitivity was 53.7% and specificity was 85.4% at a cutoff point of 2 CTC subtypes. The diagnostic value of both total CTC number and CTC subtype number was a little poorer than CA199. Conclusions: Both CTC subtype and total CTC number may serve as potential biomarkers for PDAC.
Long Non-Coding RNA Expression Profiling in Obesity Mice with Folic Acid Supplement
Authors: Ma Feifei , Li Wei , Tang Renqiao , Liu Zhuo , Ouyang Shengrong , Cao Dingding , Li Yuanyuan , Wu Jianxin
Published: May 2017

Background/Aims: Obesity is a major contributor to the growing prevalence of metabolic and cardiovascular diseases. This study was designed to investigate the effect of folic acid (FA) on obese mice by detecting the genome-wide expression profile of lncRNAs and mRNAs in the heart. Methods: Heart samples were collected from mice fed with standard diet (SD), high-fat diet (HFD) and high-fat diet with FA intake (HFDF). LncRNAs and mRNAs between HFD and HFDF group were analyzed by lncRNA microarray. Nine lncRNAs and mRNAs were validated using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Bioinformatics prediction was used to investigate the potential function of these differentially expressed lncRNAs. Co-expresson analysis was used to determine the transcriptional regulatory relationship of differentially expressed lncRNAs and mRNAs between two groups. Results: The expression of 58,952 lncRNAs and 20,145 mRNAs in HFD and HFDF groups was profiled by using microarrays. Gene Ontology and pathway analyses indicated that the biological functions of differentially expressed mRNAs were related to inflammation, energy metabolism, and cell differentiation. Co-expression networks composed of lncRNAs and mRNAs were also constructed to investigate the potential regulatory roles of differentially expressed lncRNAs on mRNAs. LncRNAs, namely, NONMMUT033847, NONMMUT070811, and NONMMUT015327, were validated through qRT-PCR, and these lncRNAs may be important factors regulating inflammation, energy metabolism, and cell differentiation. The expression levels of Dnajb1, Egr2, Hba-a1, Il1β, Cxcl2, and Tnfsf9 were significantly different between HFD and HFDF. Conclusions: Results suggested that FA may improve the cardiovascular function of obesity and contribute to those lncRNAs associated with inflammation and cell differentiation. In a nutshell, the present study identified a panel of lncRNAs and mRNAs that may be potential biomarkers or drug targets relevant to the high-fat diet related obesity.